Natural hair

Thanks for the reply ... this was not my question but I will
pass the tip on to the gentleman that e-mailed me from my web
site.
Pat

Sandy--
I bet you'd be a welcome guest at the SciFiNoir group @ Egroups. It's a very
active site for Black folk who can't get enough of fantasy/scifi/speculative
fiction & some people on the list are already buzzing about Highlander!
B
<<Warning: Shameless plug coming up. For the past 5 years I've been
working for a couple of television actors. Adrian Paul and Stan Kirsch
starred in the tv series "Highlander". I've been attending Highlander
conventions, working for Mr. Paul's fan club and charity organization, and
handling Mr. Kirsch's website for a few years now. Finally there's a new
Highlander movie starring Adrian Paul, and it opens Friday all over the
country!! So I'll be spending my weekend hanging out at the movies with
friends trying to help increase the opening box office receipts for the
movie. If anyone's looking for some mindless scifi/fantasy fun this
weekend, go see Highlander: Endgame!

Oops! That was my job. :-)
Here's what I gathered:
Can we use sponge rollers?
What kind of rollers are recommended?
Can we use styling products such as setting lotions, mousse, styling gel,
setting gel.
If so, which types are recommended?
-- Sandy

Did we ever get the questions together to forward to Yvonne about roller
options and styling questions?
Just a reminder...
Thanks
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://welcome.to/NaturalHairJourney

Sandy,
Good things are upcoming for the official Sisterlocks website. At the
homecoming, JoAnne introduced Michael Jenkins, the president of Mion
Enterprises. Mion Enterprises will create web pages for Sisterlock
consultants. If a consumer goes to the official Sisterlocks website,
there will be links to consultants' websites. Each consultant will be
able to promote herself/himself.
These websites will all have a similar look (same template), but
consultants' information will be available so that consumers can talk
to a real person in their area, instead of a machine. The consultants
would then answer the questions you mentioned: What is it? How does
it
look? How is it done? How much does it cost? What about
maintenance?
So, it eventually, will be more "user friendly" but it's a slow
process. JoAnne is a professor at San Diego State University, and she
employs two part-time employees. That's a total of 3 women working
parttime for such a huge undertaking. In the meantime, consumers will
just have to stumble upon your website, and Pat's. You two have
marvelouse sites. Once people find your sites, they'll find this
great
LockItUp website, as I did. I know, I know, that's entering through
the
back door, but you know you're truly welcome in someone's home when
you
can enter through the back door.

Hello, and welcome to the group! You'll find all the support you need
right here. If you care to share your experience with us, please do. Have
you always been natural?
-- Sandy

Blessings All,
I am a new member. I did not start my Locking journey with Sisterlocks, i am
glad there is a group that supports our natural state.
Thank you for being here.
Phenomenally Yours!!
Black Jazzii
Sign up for Free-for-Life E-mail at http://www.Africana.com

Reply:
OK...
I must say I agree. I get sooo many questions about Sisterlocks
on my website that really should be answered at the home office
level. Today for example I got a question about the diference
between Sisterlocks anf regular locks. This is a basic question
that should be addressed on the sisterlock home page.
I refer people to the home office because it is the right thing
to do. However I know they will have to wait then for a answer.
The bottomline is the home office does not have the manpower for
the demand. I think after attending the homecoming I understand
honestly they are trying. So that defines the problem but yet no
solution...
I did not notice but ... is there a contact on the Sisterlocks
web site that can adress these issues? Such as the webmaster.
That is the person who have the most feedback concerning layout
and information availability. Any good site usually has a place
to address these issues.
If the home office wishes to be refered to as the "offical"
mouth piece for Sisterlock information ... then you are right
their site could use some improvements. They are cautious about
being mis-represented even to the point of having to handle the
misuse of their name legally. Well now they need to produce.
It's in my opinion only, there are somethings going on behind
the scences that perhaps they can not address at this time. More
information then we need to know ... so to speak.
Again that's just a feeling.
It's a fact that the "non-official" sites with general
Sisterlock information would NOT be getting the traffic they do
if the home office site had more information on it.
My kudos go out to the home office staff for what they are able
to do.... however the reality is this is a hot product that
everyone is eager to learn more about. Another suggestion would
be a Styling book or web page. Most people need ideas for
styling.
Ok enough of that ... I guess I'm on a box too!!!
Ok let's not get quiet now..... what do others think???
Pat

I wanna talk about Sisterlocks -- the business end of it, kinda sorta.
Let's say I'm a consumer (not the creater, not a consultant), who has just
heard about Sisterlocks and want to find out what it is. I'm pointed to
the Sisterlocks website, where I come upon a home page that doesn't even
have a picture of Sisterlocks on it. It talks about the Homecoming and the
legal victory. If I were searching for info on Sisterlocks, I'd think "who
cares?" There's stuff about the Sisterlocks business, training, etc. But
nothing that the average consumer wants to know. What is it? How does it
look? How is it done? How much does it cost? What about maintenance?
One has to dig into the website to find the photo gallery, and that online
info packet is a joke. It unreadable.
So... you stumble upon JoAnne's book. Another disappointment. It's got
her thoughts about our hair history. That's fine. Interesting. But it
doesn't answer my questions. The second part talks about
Sisterlocks. Finally! Some information! It's enough info to make me look
a little further. Gotta find a consultant. I understand the website will
soon list the consultants in various regions, but for now I have to call
the home office and hope they get back to me.
So I get a response in the mail from the home office. They give me the
names of two consultants in my area. Now I can finally get some *real*
information about this thing!
As we all know, the best place to get information about Sisterlocks is on
these email lists. I also got good information in my starter kit. But you
only get that *after* you've gotten your Sisterlocks.
It's too bad the Sisterlocks website is more focused on running a
Sisterlocks business than drawing Sisterlocks customers. People are dying
for information out there, and the home office website just doesn't cut the
mustard. Moyosafi's website is *much* better for customer information,
pictures, etc.
OK. I just wanted to get that off my chest. I feel better now. It's just
that I think Sisterlocks is *such* a wonderful system. I hate to see it
promoted so poorly.
-- Sandy
"When women vote, women win." -- Ellen R. Malcolm
EMILY's List -- http://www.emilyslist.org

Hello all,
The link to my web site (A Journey to Sisterlocks() has changed. Please see
link below.
I did this so there so no mix between my site
and the official Sisterlocks(r) web site.
Also I've made some minor changes to the site including adding some new
links I found.
Thanks and Enjoy!
Please update your current links.
http://welcome.to/NaturalHairJourney
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://welcome.to/NaturalHairJourney

Hey Ericka, I know how you feel. I have had my test locks for going on 2
weeks now. I cannot get locked until Sept. 15th. I think I am going to do
it over 2 days. I cannot wait because like you said I love my little test
locks and I don't know what to do with my hair except a big french
braid.(half natural,half relaxed) The consultant put in 3 different kinds.
I really like the thicker one but the tiny one was put in in the back where
my hair is all natural. I like it also because it always lays down. The
other ones curl up or stick up. So what do most people do to get their locks
to lay down? (If that is a problem) Do you tie them down at night? I cannot
keep a scarf on all night. I always lose it in the bed.
I read a post where someone said that the test locks only stay in a week.
Mine will be in about 5 weeks when I go for my appointment. My consultant
did not say anything about removing them. She only told me to not manipulate
them at all and call her if they change in any way. Are they supposed to
come down?
BTW I heard that some Sisterlock people will be at the Dusable Museum at a
festival this labor day weekend here in Chicago. I plan to go. I don't know
if there are others here from Chicago but wanted to let you know just in case.
Carol

Ericka,
Congrats, girl! We know EXACTLY how you feel. You are going
around showing people those 4 little locs and they are
staring at them trying to figure out why you are doing it!
Please keep us posted on your progress.

Hi Bridgette,You live in Boston and are willing to fly to DC? Did you
contactthe homeoffice for any closer referrals? There are people inDetroit, NY,
PA, OH. I would suggest that you see about learning there-tightening process so
you do not have to do so much travelling ifyou go this route.Re pricing:
Typically they do start at $375 and from myunderstanding we have been told that
for every inch after 4 is $100. You have a lot of hair so try not to wait too
long if this is thepath you choose. Remember, the starting price is only
typical. Itcan be higher in some metropolitan areas.Re time: Time will
depend on how much of your length is yournatural hair, the size of your head,
hair density and the size of thelocs being put in. Personally, I have had it
take from 10 hours upthru 35 --- yes 35. Quickness is not always a virtue.
Getting theloc into the hair right -- the first time is key. Good luck,
Bridgette and keep asking the questions and doing yourresearch.

Hi Ericka! I know exactly how you feel. I loved to put my hand in my hair
and play with my little test locks.
That is *so* important! Your consultant is going to be in your head
constantly from now on. It's really really important that the two of you
have a good vibe.
-- Sandy

Well All Right!!!! I'm proud too!!!
Paleri is one of my mentors. Both her and Sigrid helped me make the
decision to get my Sisterlocks. We are a close knit Sisterlock family here
in Colorado.
Congrats.....!!!! And yes I hear you ... I'm taking the training again in
October then I will be ready to take clients. Keep me in your prayers.
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html

Hello everyone!
Sunday I traveled to Atlanta to meet my consultant and had a BALL!
Even though it rained the whole drive down and back, but that was
alright. I am now loving my 4 tiny sisterlocks as I type! LOL
My only concern it that they are sooo tiny! They look like lil micro
thingy's. But....I love the feel of them and of course show them off
every chance I get. I know.....I'm sickening! But I don't care!
Can't wait until Sep 16th! That's when my locking session will be.
She's booked up until then : < ( so I have to wait..and wait....and
wait! While there I finally got a chance to see the video's from the
home-office and they were really good, I also got a chance to see the
calender that was made featuring different people with SisterLocks.
Anyone know if thats still availabe? I'd love to have one just for
the pictures! My consultant was very well informed, kind and the
vibes were just WONDERFUL! I didn't drive back down to lil ole
Savannah...I floated back on a cloud! LOL
Aw'ite...gonna go and take me and my "4" little locks and stare at em
in the mirror and OH! Guess I'd better go eat breakfast! Thanks for
being here sisters! Even though my family thinks I've lost what
little mind I have left....I know YOU all understand!
~Ankhs and Blessings!
Ericka

That's great news, Sigrid. Tell Paleri congratulations for me.

Yay!!! My big sister got the call from Dr. Cornwell today
and she has certified her! (I'm so proud.) She is the
only Certified Consultant in Colorado right now but there
are a couple of others coming along. (Hear me Pat?)
Dr. Paleri W. Mann
Certified Sisterlocks Consultant
Phone: 877-603-9314
E-Mail: pmann@...
(Now she has to get the "R" certification so she can
teach people to retighten their own locs.)

Answer: Water, then secure with a bobby pin.

Hi Kim,
I rally appreciate all the pictures!! Your hair looks great, how
long have you been loced? I was
looking at Aibi pic and my locks look that small, (maybe a wee bit
larger) I have only been loced for
about 6 months. (5 moths and 3 weeks). I am always wanting my locs
to be bigger and always bugging
my consultant to join the ones in the front together but she tells me
I should wait until the locs have
developed. I am waiting. I also saw the pic of your first client,
WOW. Now her locs are a lovely size.
By the way how long has Aibi and your first client been loc?
Thanks, Sorry for all the questions
Doris

Kim, what did you use to "set" the hair onto the
straw?
- Akilah

Hello:
The reason that stylists recommend staying away from sponge rollers,
especially for sleeping, is that sponge rollers grab and pull-out the
hair. The Caruso rollers don't seem to have as much as a problem
because the sponge fabric is generally smoother than the other roller
purchased for sleep setting and generally, no one sleeps in the caruso
rollers.
The reason that Yvonne said to stay away from fibers is because fibers
contribute to lint. Once lint is embedded in the hair( loc, braid) it
is difficult to remove it without damaging some of the loc. ANHA does
have a nice loc pic to assist in removing lint. I have also found some
cloth-covered sponge rollers, one is covered with satin and I'm not sure
what is covering the other roller. They are called solar rollers
(satin) and soft curlers (non-satin). The soft curlers are short and
the solar rollers are longer. Both are comfortable for sleeping. I
found each of these products at Wal-mart.
One other thing that Yvonne warned against is pulling too hard when
rolling the hair on any type of roller. This can lead to permanent hair
loss known as traction alopecia.
Peace,
Angel

Thanks for the replies to my post! Going 8 weeks after I get locked (for
tightening) initially isn't that much of a problem but flying down for a
consultation and then going back a week or so later is a little different.
It's a little frustrating because the last time I checked with the home
office there was still no one in my immediate area and Boston isn't exactly
the natural hair capital of the world so I'm limited as far as my options.
Anyway, thanks for the suggestions! I might have to wait this out...

still steadily saving for the locking process, I can't find
a way to fit the expense of flying to DC just for the
consultation.<<
You need to have a LONG conversation with the Home Office.
There may be a Training Associate close by who can help you
in several ways.
1. Lock you up
2. Teach you the retightening technique at the same time
I know there is a REALLY good Trainer in Rochester.
I don't know if you can by-pass the consultation because
they need to determine the proper locking pattern for
your hair. That pattern needs to stay in your head for
a week or so. The Sisterlocks people are not like these
cosmetologists who have stopped giving strand-tests and
let your hair fall out from chemicals. They take
precautions to ensure it all comes out the best that it can.
Like Sandy mentioned, they don't like to have you trying
to do your own maintenance until after 6 months. This
is because the transition may require expertise that you
won't get from the Retightening class. They make exceptions
however. My sister and I went 1000+ miles to take the
class after 2 months because we had no consultant in our
state. We learned enough to keep ourselves up during
the transition.
The first Sisterlock consultant in Colorado travelled
to San Diego to get the locks and was trained for up-keep
at the same time.

Has anyone on this list with Sisterlocks been able to bypass the
consultation? I'm currently in Boston and the most convienent consultant for
me is in DC ( I have a friend there that I can stay with).
My hair is 8-10 inches long and all natural. While I am still steadily
saving for the locking process, I can't find a way to fit the expense of
flying to DC just for the consultation. Does anyone have feedback/ideas?
Also, did any of you have completely natural (6 inches or longer) hair when
you got Sisterlocks? How long did it take? About how much did you pay?
Thanks!

bucks to help with the expense, I won't be hatin' on ya! <g
Sandy,
Just send me your address.

Because I just can't stand having those ads at the top of each message, I
will pay the yearly fee to have them removed. I'll take care of it on
Saturday.
According to eGroups, the ads should start showing at the top tomorrow,
Monday. I'll take care of the ads on Saturday, and they should disappear
some time that day.
I am more than willing to pay the whole thing myself -- no problem -- but
if anyone is feeling generous and wants to shoot me a couple of bucks to
help with the expense, I won't be hatin' on ya! <g
-- Sandy

got his hair done! <<
Sandy,
It sounds like a blast! Pictures, we want pictures! I hope we
see some of the guys.
(Now what can I do to get IBM to send me to Detroit?)

We had about 30 people, including 3 guys; and yes one of them got his hair
done! We even had people from Ohio and New Jersey!
We came together to learn, to share, to get into each others hair. Mozetta
was there from A Nappy Hair Affair (http://www.nappyhairaffair.com). She
showed a video of past Nappy Hair Days. It was wonderful to see. People
bonding, feeling comfortable to be in an atmosphere that invites and
relishes in nappy hair. One woman on the video had a perm, and she decided
then and there to cut it off. She let one of the woman -- someone she
didn't know -- cut her hair off, and her TWA looked great. She loved
it! She was free!
Sheminege was there from Golden Goddess natural hair salon. She
demonstrated twists (with and without using a comb), two-strand twists, and
twists to the scalp. It was amazing to watch her roll those twists so
fast. And they were SO pretty! We reveled in the look and feel of
beautiful nappy hair! She then showed us some of the products that she
recommends, and we were all taking notes. It was so good to see the
different styles that we all wore. The locks, twists, and knots were
gorgeous, and we learned several different things/styles that we can do
with them.
We listened to selected portions of the Love and Nappiness CD (buy this CD
ladies!), ate our potluck meal (kudos to the cooks!), and got down to
busines. We were washing, moisturizing, twisting, and knotting up a
storm. Everybody either had their hands in someone's head or had someone's
hands in their head.
When Dorothy (the hair product junkie from Cleveland, OH <g
her bags of hair ornaments and cowrie shells, we all went crazy! Everybody
got beads, shells, and foil in their hair. We were slangin' that hair like
nobody's business. We were out of control! So we have named ourselves the
OOC. The Out of Control contingent of the ANHA. LOL! We had a ball.
A few of us were busy taking pictures of the whole thing, so there will be
lots of pics to look at very soon!
It's hard to convey the feeling of kinship and bonding that we all
felt. It was as if we had come home... like we all had known each other
for years. It was absolutely wonderful!
If there's anyone on this list that was there, please please please give us
your comments.
Btw, we'll be doing this again in October; so any of you in or near
Detroit... mark your calender. You'll be hearing more later.
Everyone received a booklet full of poems, suggestions, product
recommendations, how-tos, hair stories, etc. that Mujadillah had gathered
from all over the internet. What a great book to keep and to go back to
when in need of hair advice!
A big thank you to Mujadillah for putting this whole thing together! I
wouldn't have missed it for the world!
-- Sandy

I will! I took LOADS of pictures! We had a great time. I met some
wonderful people!
I won't be able to get the pics developed until next weekend; but as soon
as I get them, they'll be uploaded.
I'll write more about our Nappy Hair Day later. Gotta wind down first.
-- Sandy

Kim I do like the color. I wish I colored my hair prior. Lookin' good!
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat

My client, Aibi, gave me permission to upload her picture. Look in
the Homecoming Photos Folder. I really like her hair and the color.
Those are not permed ends, either. They are just some small locks.

If any of you go to the Nappy Hair Affair, please upload pictures for
our group.

Pat, I have another side job for you. I know that, in addition to
your day job, you also sew, knit and do alterations. I also know that
you've taken the Sisterlocks consultant class, so you'll soon be
locking others. But in your spare time :) you should also offer your
services (for a fee, of course) to develop web pages for people. Your
two sites are fantastic. You've inspired me. Before the year is out,
I will have my own URL to share. Thanks for the inspiration and keep
up the good work. You are truly known by many sistahs in this
country.
I've seen your name and website mentioned by many.
Also it should download

Pat,
You are lovely, as always, but you are right -- you've
taken MANY MANY better pictures by the unprofessional
photographers.
Reply: Yes my kids usually take the pictures under my direction.
My "glamour shots" did not come out very well. Kim did
a better job without all of the fancy equipment.
(O.K., enough grumbling!)
************
Reply: Well a correction to that statement would be ... Kim's hubby is a
professional photographer and had very nice equipment. He used it well I
should say. The shots of Kim and I were done in his in-house studio. Kim
sent me a copy of the photo's and they were wonderful. I got them in the
mail today. Thanks again Kim and Sam. With the talent of these e-mail list
we could come up with our own Natural hair care magazine. The hair care
books you see on the newsstands only has a portion of what is out there in
the world. The Sisterlocks Homecoming is only one of many events that
showcase our beauty and style. I enjoy the photos a lot and encourage
others to share their pics also. It's fun to see the faces behind the
names.
Later

Pat,
You are lovely, as always, but you are right -- you've
taken MANY MANY better pictures by the unprofessional
photographers.
My "glamor shots" did not come out very well. Kim did
a better job without all of the fancy equipment.
(O.K., enough grumbling!)

The size of your locks should be fine and the length is not so long
that it would require only 2-3 locks per straw, so you should be OK.
My
locks are about 5 inches long. They are very small, but not quite
micro. I have a lot of hair on my head (lot's of hair per square
inch:DENSE). The straw set tends to make hair look fuller. My hair is
full enough so I won't be getting a straw set, but I still highly
recommend it for others.

Hello,
This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the LockItUp
group.
File : /Pictures/Homecoming 2000/Pat glamour SLhome2000 1.jpg
Uploaded by : phunley@...
Description : Pat's glamour pic from Homecoming 2000
You can access this file at the URL
http://www.egroups.com/files/LockItUp/Pictures/Homecoming+2000/Pat+glamour+SLhom\
e2000+1%2Ejpg
To learn more about eGroups file sharing, please visit
http://www.egroups.com/help/files.html
Regards,
phunley@...

How long did it take to roll all your locks onto the straws?...and
how many straws do you think you used?
It's hard to determine how long it took because we were socializing.
It may take longer if you do it yourself. It may be a shorter amount
of time if someone else does it. Also, Michelle taught Fatima and I
how
to do it so it took longer because we were beginners. Once Fatima got
started, her time improved. I came in later when one-fourth of Pat's
head was completed. I had to re-learn how to roll hair. It's
different on straws because you can't grab as much hair. As for the
number of straws, it definitely depends on the size and length of
your locks. I believe Pat's are small to medium sized and her length
is
about 4 inches. I recommend that you all give it a try. The outcome
is absolutely beautiful and they will last for a week on some people.
Michelle mentioned that she does a straw set on all of her clients
after their initial locking session. It helps to hide some of the
parts. I have a cousin with VERY thin hair. Her straw set gives the
allusion that she has thicker hair.

www.hotmail.com

Kim and Pat:
How long did it take to roll all your locks onto the straws?...and how many
straws do you think you used?
Thanks :-),
Sandust

Good questions.... It maybe took Fatima 45 minutes to roll.
Now I certain doing it myself and reach up over my head it would
take longer. Now how many straws.. that answer I don't know.
I guess it would depend on your hair thickness. I can try to
count the straws in the picture and average. Also I think it
would depend on how long you cut the straws. I hope this
helps. The curls lasted for several days. I'm a wild sleepers
who has problems keeping a "rag" on at times.
I hope this helps.
Pat

On this day, my three week anniversary of glorious nappiness, I'd
like to express what I LOVE about my hair.
1. for DECADES I've suffered from a dry, itchy scalp and dandruff
(mainly due to the repeated cycle of scalp burns and irritation from
relaxers). Since going natural I'm not constantly scratching and I
haven't had one single flake!
2. my bathroom counter and sink was ALWAYS full of long strands of
hair, my bathroom trash can was always full of hair, my brushes were
always full of hair. This was very disturbing to me. Although I
still have very thick hair, I always wondered why I had any hair left
on my head! Today, my bathroom is a lot easier to keep clean.
3. also, before natural hair I had a bathroom FULL of products--
caruso rollers, sponge rollers, magnetic rollers, plastic rollers,
all types of hair pins, 3 different sizes of curling irons, two blow
dryers, one bonnet dryer, a flattening iron, a whole mess of setting
lotions, hair sprays, gels, wrap lotions, countless different combs,
brushes, and MORE. Now I have so much more room in my bathroom
cabinet.
4. As a busy mom of four, I very seldom left the house
looking "pulled together." My hair was always an issue and I always
looked "harried". I had to do a lot to it to make it look "right".
Most days it was pull it back into a ponytail and go. Today, I spray
a little detangler on it, run a comb through it, and I'm gone. I
even have time to put on a little lipstick and eyeshadow!
5. I always said I wouldn't cut my hair until I had lost weight.
Not only did I NOT lose weight, but I've gained ten pounds this summer
(that would make a grand total of 38 pounds I need to lose) ;0)
Surprisingly, my attitude about my body has changed. I'm wearing my
sleeveless dresses--and I do mean "wearing" them, with an attitude.
It's hard to explain--but I feel like there's an aura of self-
acceptance and confidence that wasn't there before--and it shows!
I actually have more reasons, but I think this is getting kind of
long. I'm very thankful for this group (and others on the web) that
were the catalyst for this change.
Toni

Hello all
I added a few pictures to the Homecoming page. Also it should download
faster. I will keep working on it.
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/homecoming/default.htm
Enjoy!!
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html

Hi Kim, Gwen here. My Loctician told me no sponge rollers because
they damage the locs. I had used the sponge rollers in the past and
they give such a beautiful curl that I couldn't help but use them, so
after she told me that I like you packed them up. I went and brought
those flexible rod type rollers, they work good but you have to make
sure the hair is totally dry before you take the rollers out or you
will have a wet loose curl or no curl at all. I need to get some feed
back regarding the gel, moussies, water etc for rolling the hair and
something about the straw set. I saw I think it was Pat in the
homecoming pictures with her hair rolled with straw and the final
curl was just beautiful, I might be going to Detroit this weekend and
would love to have my hair just right for the trip. I understand
there is going to be an event in Detroit this Sat for sisterlocs in
Ann Arbor.

I received this e-mail from one of the mailing list I'm on. It talks about
the book "Don't Worry Be NAPPY!".
Has anyone read this one. I want to order it. For more information go to
this web site:
http://www.netnia.com/nappy
Anyway enjoy the e-mail below.
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html
Greetings,
***************************************************
Dreadlocks are "HOT," in style, and everyone wants
to know how to grow and take care of them .
***************************************************
Famous celebrities like Busta Rhymes, Lauryn Hill, Eric
Benet, Bobby McFerrin, boxer Lennox Lewis, pro basketball
player Brian Grant, football pro Edgerrin James, and Pulitzer
prize winner Toni Morrison, are all wearing dreadlocks that
symbolizes freedom, success, and self expression.
This book will teach you how grow dreadlocks, care for
dreadlocks, and live a successful life with dreadlocks.
It also covers tips and ideas on how to prepare your mind,
body, and soul to grow a unique head of dreadlocks.
Whether it's for cultural pride or fashion, this book
help you understand the nature of dreadlocks.

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Detroit's Nappy Hair Affair
Date: Saturday, August 26, 2000
Time: 12:00PM - 6:00PM EDT (GMT-04:00)
Get together with other nappy heads!
Memorial Christian Church
730 Tappan
Ann Arbor, MI

I received a notice from eGroups today. Starting next week they will be
putting the ads at the top of all messages rather than the bottom. I hate
this. I really really hate this.
They do give all groups the option to pay $59.40 per year to have the ads
removed. I don't have it, so we'll be seeing these gawdawful ads at the
beginning of every message as of next week.
Sheesh!
-- Sandy

When we were in the Styling & Maintenance Class, I could've sworn I
heard the presenter say to NOT us sponge rollers. I can't find it
anywhere in my notes, so I'm wondering if I imagined it. I do know
that
she said to not use rollers with fiber. Aren't sponge rollers made
with
fiber? Anyhow, I went home and packed up all of my sponge rollers. (I
haven't yet thrown them out. I'm not sure why not.) I bought those
flexible/twister rollers. Maybe I did't let my hair dry long enough
because the curls fell within an hour. I'll have to try them again
one
day. I'm not big on styles, so I don't curl much. I ususally just
wake
up, run my fingers through my hair, and go.
Sigrid, Pat, did the presenter say not to use sponge rollers, or did
I
just draw that conclusion from her statement about not using fiber
rollers? By the way, what's the presenter's name?

read all the messages in both sisterlocks groups. I've looked
at all the pictures and I feel like you guys are old friends.<<
WELCOME, Toni!
What a wonderful journey your are embarking, lady. I
guarantee you that you'll only get a bigger and bigger
smile every nappy day of your natural life. Some folks
wonder why I'm grinning so wide. It is because I am
finally FREE!!!

On each section, I MOISTURIZED my ends (I'm not losing another
inch). The results were fantastic -- lot's of compliments.
Tonight I spritzed my hair with water, braided my hair all over, and
rolled
each braid with a sponge roller. This seems to work very wellfor me,
and
it lasts quite a few days.
------
Do both of you just use water to set your hair? Do you use any type of
setting agent? I know most are not good for your hair but when Sigrid
said she moisturized her hair, I was unsure as to how? And which do
you prefer, sponger rollers or perm rods for setting? Just Curious
for when I get my Siterlocks. Consulting appt. on Saturday. Can't
wait!:~)
One other question, since my hair is all natural now, will it be
easier for my hair to start locking or about the same time?
Theresa

Hey Pat, Sandy, Sigrid, Kim and everybody! I've finally read all the
messages in both sisterlocks groups. I've looked at all the pictures
and I feel like you guys are old friends.
I emailed Pat a while ago to compliment her on her hair (hers was the
first website I discovered). Two weeks ago I cut my shoulder length
relaxed hair down to the new growth (about 1/2 inch). I'm really
loving discovering the "real" texture of my hair. I plan on getting
my sisterlocks in about 6 months. As I told Pat in my email, I
discovered sisterlocks several months ago. One of my clients had the
most gorgeous head of hair I have ever seen cascading over her
shoulders. She's positively regal! In 1997 she discovered
sisterlocks and her hair was about 2 inches long when she started.
I took my teenaged daughter for a sisterlocks consultation, but she
decided to go with traditional locs (You know how it is--got to be
opposite of what mom wants). The consultant (a guy!) in our town is
sooo knowledgeable, not only about sisterlocks, but about natural
hair care in general. He said I didn't need to cut all of the permed
hair off, but I really wanted freedom from my "oppressed" hair and
don't mind having it short for a while.
Anyway, let me wrap it up--while I'm excited about getting my locks,
I'm looking forward to watching my hair change and grow over the next
few months. Thanks for all your input and pictures and advice. I
love this group!
Toni

Toni, I'm so glad you decided to delurk!
Tony said:
(about 1/2 inch).<<
Wow! You've got guts girl! I wanted to do that, but with the beginning
stage of Sisterlocks (the thousands of parts), I didn't think I could handle
it. I do plan to cut the perm off later, though, when my locks have matured
a bit.
when she started.<<
Wow! I'll bet it's beautiful. One of these days *I'm* gonna be regal beauty
with the gorgeous head of hair! :-)
wanted freedom from my "oppressed" hair and don't mind having it short for a
while.<<
I hear ya, and I feel exactly the same way. Having it short didn't bother me
at all. I've done that many times before. Having the baby locks *plus* a
million parts is what bothered me. I guess I just don't have the guts. :-)
Stick with us, Toni. We'll all make this transition together!
-- Sandy

Hi Sandy,
In regards to your question about my hair length after I cut off the
stringy relaxed ends -
About 2 1/2 - 3 inches.
My locing session was March 13th 2000. I had about 21/2 to 3 1/2
inches of new
growth and about 2 to 3 inches of
perm ends. After I cut of my
relax ends in June my hair was
about 21/2-3inches or so. I cut most of the stringy ends off in the
back
of my head. My hair in the back is
kinky and thicker there than in the front and left side of my head.
The relaxed ends were almost
being drawn up into the lock. My locs in the back of my head had
started to form curly q's but not at
the ends sort of at the end of where the natural hair was. Then
where the perm hair started it was
just stringy strands of hair. Literally there were only 3 to 5
strands of hair hanging out of the curly
q. It looked strange. The only way it look good was if I curled my
locs on perm rods. Now, I did not
completely cut off my relaxed ends, I left a small amount of the
relaxed hair and made sure I did not
cut into the curly q's at all. I prayed it would not unravel. I did
not even wash it until it was time for
a retightening. When I did wash them my locs stayed put. YEAH!!!
My consultant said there was no
unraveling. As time went on I trimed of the relaxed ends. I still
have a little bit on the front and
sides of my head. Anyway, I hope I made it clear. I am not sure
how it is going to be with your
relaxed ends loced. I am sure your consultant will help you
through all the transformations.
Peace,
Doris

Ain't that the truth! Very seldom do you find whole rooms full of sisters
with beautiful hair. There wasn't a bad hairdo in sight anywhere!
That's where I am now. It's not *so* bad because my consultant loc'd all
my hair -- not just the new growth. But still -- the relaxed hair isn't
locking. It just looks like I have a head full of tiny straight braids.
2-1/2 months, huh? How long was your hair after you cut it? I'm looking
forward to having the more natural, nappy look myself. Can't wait!
That would include you!
-- Sandy

Hello:
I saw the pictures from Homecoming. Pat, you did a great job!.
Pat,
I love your straw set. How long did it take to set and dry? How long
did it last?
I am in the picture with Fatima. BTW the lint pic from anha is great.
Peace,
Angel

Hi,
I just wanted to let all who provided pictures from the HOMECOMING a
big THANK YOU. Everyone
looks wonderful!! It was so encouraging to see the possibilities of
what my baby sisterlocs may look
like in the future. You just do not see many picutres of beautiful
sisters with such great looking locs!
Thanks again. My locs are almost 6 months old. I have gone thru
the plucked chicken look (lasted
about 1 day- I curled my hair on per rods, it did the trick - looked
good). Then the stringy relax ends
came, cut those off at about 2 1/2 months. Now I am seeing some
transformation beginning. my hair
is taking on a more natural, nappy - happy look! And after seeing
these pictures, I can really begin
to imagine! Thanks to EVERYONE who is helping to make this board so
great!!
Peace,
Doris

It sounds lovely, Sigrid. I hope you find that camera and take some
pictures for us.
Have any of the rest of you tried different styles? What did you do? How
did it turn out? How did you like it?
Tonight I spritzed my hair with water, braided my hair all over, and rolled
each braid with a sponge roller. This seems to work very wellfor me, and
it lasts quite a few days.
-- Sandy (and I get to throw my hair around a lot, too. <g

Sigrid and Kim ... is that Genitha from Sisterlocks. She sat thru the
training again with us. Also she is in the "That Hair thing: book on page
53. She signed my book for me. A very nice person. I have a picture of
her on the homecoming site.
http://www.strictly-roots.com/Untitled-32.jpg
Oh yeah check out this link. Nice pictures:
http://www.strictly-roots.com/stylegallery.htm
Pat

I could access this one and really enjoyed it. Funny how
so many of us black women have similar stories. I hope more
and more of us discover natural (non-chemically relaxed)
methods to maintain our hair.
Today was a great hair day. I used the rubber rods on the
top of my head and twisted the back & sides (5 twists). On
each section, I MOISTURIZED my ends (I'm not losing another
inch). The results were fantastic -- lot's of compliments.
Where is that camera? (My glamour shots were terrible.)

I get this message :(
"Access forbidden from external hosts"

Something else fun to read. I'm in a research mood tonight.
http://www.hairzion.com/journey.html
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html

I learned a lot from the Styling and Maintenance class. Here's a
rough
rundown:
Hair Color:
Permanent hair color (ammonia, peroxide) should be avoided.
Henna coats the outside of the cuticle. Too much coating makes hair
brittle. Don't use white henna. Pure or colorless is OK for shine.
Must
use conditioner.
Semi permanent color does not make a chemical change. Jazzing or
Beautiful Collection by Clairol are OK. Only lasts 4-6 shampoos. Will
not lift/lighten hair.
Cellophane has polymers that stain the scalp. MRX will remove color
from the skin.
Hair Care:
Use curling irons sparingly. Avoid rollers with fiber. Perm rods or
flexible rollers should be used. Be careful with the clamp on the
magnetic rollers. Best to simply use water to set hair, or use a
setting lotion/mousse that reads "non-alcohol, non-flaky." Lotta Body
leaves too much residue. Use water-soluable products, not extremely
oily. Don't use end papers. Don't use reconstructor/conditioner until
locks have matured. Use moisture treatment on ends to stop bunching.
Use accessories that don't cut into the hair.
In my own experience with permanent color (before Sisterlocks), my
hair
became dry/brittle after a while. Terrible split ends. I decided to
never color my hair again. However, once the grey comes....I may have
to look more into that semi permanent stuff :)

Wow! A great article, Pat!
-- Sandy

Check out .....
THE DIFFICULT ROAD TO BLACK AND NATURAL
http://i4.yimg.com/4/2fb1fa5/h/e7caeae7/road2blk.html
Enjoy!!

Very nice, Ms Hunley!

I've heard that some feel Sisterlocks are "instant" locks and therefore
they don't consider them to be real locks. I guess they don't realize that
we have to go through the maturing process just like other lockheads
do. But then again... I don't really care what they realize or don't
realize. Sisterlocks was *the* answer for me, and that's what counts.
Well go 'head girl! Good luck in your ventures!
-- Sandy

Well I finally have some Sisterlocks Homecoming 2000 pictures to
show. Yeah!!
This project took a lot of time but was fun. Now for my
disclaimers.
First this is still a work in process. I have little things to
do to make the site easy to view. For one thing there are a lot
of graphics so unless you have a fast Internet connect the pages
could take a while to load. Im working on improving the
graphics without taking away from the quality I want to
display. Also the program I used to create the web pages works
better using Microsoft Internet Explorer as a web browser. If
you use Netscape the pages shift to the left and may not appear
as nice. I need feedback if you have any problems.
Next Ive created the pages for fun. While I asked the
parties in the pictures if I could take them, I understand if
for some reason someone does not want their picture on the web.
I know the only reason my site started is because of my hunger
for information. I never dreamed I would still be doing it.
This is how I worded it on the site:
Great care was taken to represent the events that occurred in
the best way possible. If there are any photos that did not
represent the parties involved in the best possible way, please
inform the Author (Pat Hunley) and they will be removed from the
site.
Everyone's participation is encouraged in order to share the
event with those who were unable to attend. Remember fun un-
posed pictures help capture the essence of the moment.
If anyone wishes to share their own experiences on this web
page, please e-mail with the information. Photos can be scanned
to be include if they are sent to me via US mail.
E-mail for an address to send them to.
Please include a short essay telling your story.
Thanks again for all your support
Im releasing this Not ready for primetime version to the
LockItUp group first for review. I know several members of the
group and I feel you will give constructive yet honest
feedback. You would be surprised the negative feedback one gets
at times debating who really has natural hair or whose locks
are black enough so to speak. Many for what every reason are
down on the Sisterlocks method as if we are cheating or
something. We have enough people in the world against us
besides having to be against each other.
I believe we all can work together and embrace our diversity no
matter what hair care choices we make. We are a team. Here in
Colorado the consultants work together to help each other out.
I found this is true and in other areas of the country too.
That is what the Homecoming was all about, Networking.
Anyway enough of that. Back to the real Pat
I really enjoyed the Homecoming. It was great to see us
representing. It would be nice to hear from more guys. But
Im certain that will come in time.
I will talk later about my decision to get trained as a
consultant (at the last minute). Im not ready to take on
clients just yet due to some personal changes Im taking on in
my life right. This includes a relocation in the near future.
Were planning another Sisterlocks training session here in
Colorado in the next couple of months. I will take the training
again to reinforce what I learned then I would know the
direction I will take. The Sisterlock training goes along with
some other business ventures I wish to pursue. So we will see.
So check it out and get back to me before I release it to the
world.
Love, Peace and Nappiness to you
Pat
The Homecoming web pages:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/homecoming
My Journey web pages:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html

I haven't seen it anywhere. I checked their website but it didn't list
ingredients. Why don't companies list ingredients for their
products? That's a pet peeve of mine. :-)
-- Sandy

Dark and Lovely just came out with a hair line for natural hair. If
any of you have seen it, I want to know what you all think of it.
one love, Carina Chimdi

Hello,
I just want to thank everyone for all the emails and suggestions I
have received about getting my Sisterlocks. If I had any doubts at
all about getting them I don't now. Everyone on this board seems to
be just like a big family. You are all too kind. I can't wait to
become an "official" Sisterlocks family member. :~) As soon as I go
for a consultation I will keep you all posted.
Sandy,
I think I remember someone else from Phoenix or the Arizona area
also who wanted to get Sisterlocks too. I believe she was from
Chandler, AZ. Does anyone know of her progress.
Theresa

Sandy,
Thanks for the kind words. My locks are barely hitting the top
of my shoulders but I thank God for the journey.
Kim,
You are just too cute and your glamour shots came out great!
Your first client's locks are really nice -- you really do
good work so you should be proud. "The Girl's Got Skills!"
Pat,
Love that straw set, Sis! You are so photogenic anyway.
Do you ever take a bad picture?
Angel,
You got the locs, girl! If you want to 'fess up on which
picture you are in, please do! You are my inspiration since
you live in a very dry climate and your locs are fabulous!

Wow! Kim these pictures are awesome! You all look positively
glowing! Everybody's hair is so beautiful. The pictures really do show
the versatility of Sisterlocks.
Kim, you are one beautiful lady. You have a smile that lights up a
room. I've always been a sucker for a great smile, and yours jumped right
out at me. It's a great asset. Between the smile and the beautiful hair,
girl you really got it goin' on!
Pat, you were definitely styling in those photos! I love that straw
set! I'll have to try that one. I kept the instructions for it, but I
don't know how well it will work with half permed hair. I love seeing how
your locks have matured over the past 7 months. I'm right behind
you! This is one helluva journey, isn't it?
And Sigrid! I just can't stand you with all those lovely locks! Your
shoulder-length locks are what I'm aiming for. I know you're proud of your
beautiful hair. To be able to show the beauty of our natural hair in this
way must be a great pleasure.
And those little girls are just *too* cute! I really think locks on little
girls help to instill a great sense of self-esteem in the growing years,
and being able to style the Sisterlocks in so many cute ways is a major
plus in that area IMO.
If there's anyone here who is still hemming and hawwing about getting
Sisterlocks, I'm sure these pictures will make the decision for them. Wow
is the only word I can think of to describe these pictures.
Again, the instructions for getting to the pics are:
1. Go to http://www.egroups.com/group/lockitup
2. Sign in
3. Click the "Files" link on the left side of the screen.
4. Click the "Pictures" folder link.
5. Click the "Homecoming 2000" folder link.
6. Click on the link for each picture.
7. Hit your back button to go back and click on the next picture.
What a great photo gallery! Thanks so much for uploading them, Kim!
-- Sandy
"When women vote, women win." -- Ellen R. Malcolm
EMILY's List -- http://www.emilyslist.org

Theresa:
There is trainee consultant in Phoenix now. Her name is Willa Mae Jackson
and she is located in South Phoenix. Send me an email for more information.
She does good work.

I've submitted some photos from the Homecoming. I debated a long time
about submitting these photos because I don't know all of these women
personally. I liked their hair and asked permission to take their
picture. I had no idea I would be displaying their faces all over the
world. Anyhow, if any of you recognize these women, please notify
them.
If they're not happy about their pictures being on the Internet, I'll
remove them immediately.To view the photos, look for the "Files" link
on the left side of the Messages page. Click on "Pictures." Click on
"Homecoming 2000."
The Homecoming was held in San Diego. It was a two-day event. It was
held July 28-29. Friday was geared more towards Sisterlocks
consultants
and Saturday was for all. The prices varied depending on the sessions
and the number taken. For example, there were Retightening Classes,
Styling and Maintenance Classes,Glamour Shots, a Health and Safety
Class, lunch, dinners, dancing, and for those who wanted to be
pampered, there was a mini-spa massage service.Therefore, the prices
ranged from $25 to $290. It was worth every penny. Even the women who
did not do the glamour shots still had their photos taken. A
complimentary yearbook will be mailed to us. We also received a
complimentary Homecoming tee shirt.

I'm glad you liked it. I'm sorry my kids used you as a
jungle jim. :)<<
Kim,
I'm so glad you are here. Your kids were cute and it
was a funny situation.
Were you in the Styling and Maintenance Class? If so,
what did you think about haircoloring? I've decided
to stick with my natural color until I start graying
and only if I hate it. I colored my locs before getting
Sisterlocks and it was way too drying -- I lost about
5 inches. The breakage has stopped now that I'm locked
and can add moisturizers regularly.
Sounds like semi-permanent is the way to go.
If you were in the class, what did you get in our
free product package? The reconstructive cream or
the moisture cream?

I was too awestruck to get phone numbers and can't
remember anyone's name but yes, I remember that lady.
She was trained by Barbara with my sister and one of
her customers was at the Homecoming. She did a fine
job on that lady and had a nice spirit -- really a
nice person.
Kim,
Did we meet? Are the the one who pointed me to the "You Buy,
We Fry?" Didn't you go to Italy and had the cute kids that
used me as a Jungle Jim? If so, you were really cool.
I'm so bad on names but good with faces, situations,
and food.

I remember there was a consultant in Arizona at the homecoming.
I don't remember if she is certified yet. I remember talking to
her about the dry climate. I think Sigrid talked to her too. I
have to look thru all the phone numbers I collected. I
remember giving me a card .... I think.... She had auburn
colored hard that was not locked yet. Fair sikned ... Do you
remeber her Kim???
Check with the home
office.

Theresa,
If traveling a little further isn't a big problem, I'm in San Diego,
and I'm a certified consultant. Actually, I think San Diego may be a
little closer than LA. There are four of us in the San Diego area who
are still taking new clients. Call the home office to get the others'
numbers. My number is 619-527-7031. Also, Sandy is right. The test/
sample locks are very important. You wouldn't want to sit for several
hours, just to have them all come out because the incorrect locking
pattern was used. Sigrid is correct as well. Barbara is good. I've
seen
her work. Also, she was one of my trainers when I took the training
course last year.

list and ran across one from Theresa (tboware@a...) in June that said
she was planning to get Sisterlocks but was waiting for new growth.
Theresa. How are you doing with your natural hair? How is natural
hair working for you? Have you gotten the Sisterlocks yet? Are you
still planning to? Or have you decided to get more traditional locks?
***Sandy,
Thank you for inquiring about me. I have grown my hair out and am
currently wearing it in twist locks. I am still hoping to get
Sisterlocks soon. I am hoping to be able to get them sometime next
month. I live in Phoenix and the Sisterlocks certified consultant
closest to me is in Los Angeles, Barbara Bramwell. I tried emailing
her but received no response. I tried contacting the Sisterlocks
uncertified person in Phoenix but she seemed pretty busy. So that has
been my problem, either lack of funds, or when I do have the funds,
no consultant and no time. But, I will keep trying.
I have been viewing the postings on this sight faithfully though and
have watched your's and Pat Hunley's journey on your respective
websights. Pretty exciting. I too can't wait to see the postings of
pictures from the Homecoming event. Have your parts filled in
completely yet? When you went for your initial consultation how long
did you have to wait for them to do your whole head. Can I get it
done all in one day without the test locks?
**Theresa**

I was just reading through some of the old posts from this email list and
ran across one from Theresa (tboware@...) in June that said she was
planning to get Sisterlocks but was waiting for new growth.
It's been a couple of months, and I'm just wondering what's up with
Theresa. How are you doing with your natural hair? How is natural hair
working for you? Have you gotten the Sisterlocks yet? Are you still
planning to? Or have you decided to get more traditional locks?
Just curious and wanting to hear from everybody!
Anybody found any cool new products for natural hair care?
Anybody discovered anything new about their hair?
-- Sandy
"When women vote, women win." -- Ellen R. Malcolm
EMILY's List -- http://www.emilyslist.org

Send me your address. I know you're an IT, but snail mail
still works. :)
************************
Mark me HERE!!!!
Hey Miss Kim.....
I will send my address to you. I am still working on the photos for my web
page. I plan to dive right into it this weekend .... I promise ... (famous
last words....) ... cross my heart and pinky swear. SMILE.....
As soon as I'm done I will also comment on the Homecoming. All I can say
is I meet some wonderful people including Kim. It's very nice to put a face
with a name. The web has been a great way to network. Of course many
remembered my face from the web site. They would say "I've seen you
somewhere before....... Oh yes the web site"
So next year Sandy we will know you right off...... You Sisterlocks will be
1 year one by then.
Anyway later...
Love and blessings to Ya!!
Pat
web page:
http://www.bewellnet.com/phunley/locks/sisterlocks.html

Pat, where are you? I need your address so that I can send you some
photos from the Homecoming. I don't know how to send them
electronically since my scanner
only displays photos in black and white. I want you to see the
pictures
in color. Send me your address. I know you're an IT, but snail mail
still works. :)

I attended the homecoming. It was FANTASTIC! What a joy to see so
many
women wearing Sisterlocks. They all looked so different and all were
beautiful. I couldn't stop smiling or taking pictures. Once I learn
how, I'll post some pictures soon. The most important session to me
was the Styling and Maintenance class. The presenter gave lots of
invaluable information. When I'm not so tired, I'll list some of the
things I learned. I highly recommend that everyone with Sisterlocks
attend at least one Homecoming. There was plenty of great tasting
food
and a good time was had by all. A new line of shampoos and
moisturizers
were also introduced. The biggest hit was the spray moisturizer. The
best part for me was meeting women from all over the country. Even
though I learned a lot in the sessions, I learned plenty just from
socializing with other Sisterlocks wearers. What a thrill. I'll add
more info soon.

Hi Patrice!
Yes that's reasonable. Sigrid (who is on this list) posted a message that
clarifies the pricing. I don't think she'd mind me reposting it here for
you and others new to the list. This is one that I kept because I know the
question comes up a lot. Someone had asked about a $350 price for
Sisterlocks. I'm reposting the pertinent portions of Sigrid's response
below. Btw, Sigrid's sister is a Sisterlocks consultant, and that's where
she got her info.

Hello all,
I am new to the board. I am continuing to learn more about sisterlocks and
am extremely interested in getting them. I have an appointment with a
consultant on Thursday. Can anyone tell me if $300 is reasonable for the
start-up?
Thanks!
--- Patrice Henderson-Key
--- precious923@...
--- EarthLink: It's your Internet.

OK ladies. All of you who went to San Francisco, I'm still dying to hear
about the Homecoming, with pictures!
-- Sandy
http://home.earthlink.net/~diamonique/sisterlocks/journey.html
"A celebrity is one who is known to many persons he is glad he doesn't know."
--H. L. Mencken

As you continue to get your hair retightened, the locked hair slides
down the lock and becomes packed. (Does that make sense?) Anyhow,
balls
form on the ends of the locks. Some people like them. I think their
ugly. I used to cut them, but I learned that the balls stop the hair
from unraveling at the ends, forcing the hair to lock. So no matter
how
ugly I think they are, I no longer cut them because I know they help
the locking process. Once my hair is locked and no longer slips, then
I'll be able to cut them.

I can vouch for Sheila. There's none of that traditional stuff to be seen
in her place anywhere. When she did my Sisterlocks she did use a curling
iron to curl the permed ends. She told me I could use my curling iron but
advised me to use heat rarely during the initial settling in period, as it
makes the locking process take longer.
She is a Certified Sisterlocks Consultant and Trainer and a Cosmetologist,
but she no longer does any of the 'traditional' services, i.e. relaxers,
etc. As a matter of fact, the reason I chose her from the Consultants I
spoke with is precisely because she is a licensed cosmetologist. I knew
that my permed ends would have to be cut sooner or later. I was told by
another consultant that I would have to go to someone else for the cutting
because she (the other consultant) wasn't a licensed cosmetologist. I
wanted to be able to stick with one person for all of my hair needs, so I
went with Sheila. If it had not been for the permed ends, it wouldn't have
mattered to me whether the person was a licensed cosmetologist or not.
I know that I made the right choice. I am happy with Sheila's work, her
attitude about natural hair, the atmosphere in her salon/school, etc. She
has become a friend.
-- Sandy

stuff to be seen in her place anywhere.<<
Sandy,
I think you have a winner with Sheila. At the Homecoming
I knew she was licensed by her speech but she didn't seem
to hold that training as the Gospel. She seemed to be
still learning and seeking understanding about natural
hair processes like like Tee & Yvonne do. That is what
gave me a good feeling about her.
The lady who wrote "No Lye" is another good one who has
made the transition (can't remember her name right now).
She should write a book entitled "Natural Hair: Unlearning
Training From Cosmetology School" or "Putting Cosmetology
Training in Perspective for Natural Hair Care".
Another factor to consider is how the consultant is wearing
her OWN hair. If she is not wearing (or planning to wear)
her hair in a natural style, she is not LIVING it. Sure,
everyone has different hair & experiences but it is hard
for a person who is not locking her own hair to really
understand the experience 24X7.

After having many consultants (certified, uncertified,
and licensed cosmetologists) in my locs, I've discovered
something about these folks AS A CONSUMER. The best
consultants are:
1. Certified Sisterlocks Training Consultants (CTA)
2. Certified Sisterlocks Consultants
3. Sisterlocks Consultants who are actively
working toward certification (should not be still
waiting to be certified for more than one year and
not taking refresher training.)
Some of these are licensed cosmetologists but I
don't see that being an advantage. In fact, it can
be a problem. For example, a uncertified consultant
and cosmetologist once whipped out the Clairol
Permanent coloring to use on my 9 month old
Sisterlocks. She didn't see why she should do
anything different with my locs. Since she was a
licensed cosmetologist and I'm not even in the
"hair biz", I didn't feel comfortable challenging her
-- I just didn't let her work on my hair.
Licensed cosmetologists have to UNLEARN practices
which are not appropriate for natural or locked hair.
Those who do approach Sisterlocks from a different
perspective than those who have not. Two consultants
I know have made the transition are Yvonne Mobley
(CTA in Florida) & Tee Smith (Certified, in California).
I've not talked to Sheila Everette-Hale but I
saw her at the Homecoming and after visiting her site,
she appears to have made the transition also. There
are things that they have abandoned or rarely practice
in their all natural shops (e.g. hot curling wands,
relaxers).
Anyone else notice these things?

Sandy,
Coloring was covered extensively at the Homecoming Styling
& Maintenance class. After taking it, many of us concluded:
"forget coloring -- it is not worth risking the health of
my locs!"
Yvonne Mobley was the "expert" instructor -- licensed
cosmetologist and Sisterlocks Training Consultant who lost
her own long locs after coloring them blond. Her second
set of 12 inchs locs are beautiful but she said that she
was giving her locs a rest from coloring.
If a person plans on coloring, they should do it BEFORE
getting Sisterlocks. Coloring changes the composition
of hair so a person should not blame Sisterlocks if
they lose their locs.
From good to bad this is what I learned about
coloring methods from the instructor who described
these methods in detail:
1. Temporary (crayons) (don't get caught in the rain)
2 Semi-permanent coloring (the best method because
it will wash out after 5-6 washings)
3. Herbal (permanent) coloring or Bigen brand henna
(OK method but can dry your locs)
4. Traditional permanent hair coloring (the most
dangerous)
Henna is incompatible with other permanent processes.
Henna coats the hair and has to be stripped away for the
others to take. Stripping away Henna must be done by a
cosmetologist.
My sad story: I used Dark & Lovely just prior to
locking. The coloring, not applying any oils in the
dry Colorado winter, and styling accounts for me losing
5 inches of my locs. I started out with skinny 8 inch
perm-free Sisterlocks 15 months ago and I now have
8 inch more mature locs. The breakage has stopped now
that I use oils and don't style much.
I haven't really started graying yet cuz I'm like my
mom and won't get much gray until I am in my 50's-60s.
Therefore, I'm not planning to do any more coloring.
There were ladies with beautiful salt & pepper colored
locks at the Homecoming for inspiration.

--- In LockItUp@egroups.com, Sandy Fields <diamonique@e...
Now what do I do about all this grey that is now so prominent in my
hairline? Should I or shouldn't I?
Greetings Sandy!
Thanks for the update! Glad to hear you're still loving those locks!
It is just my humble opinion....:
along side, afew in the top and alot "hidden" underneath in the
back. I'm only 35, but I've had grey hair(that started along the
sides) since I was 14! I've actually gotten use to it and I've
decided to keep it. I think you should wait awhile and let your
sisterlocks mature and THEN see how you feel! Men aren't the only
ones who look mature and sexy with grey hairs!!!!!! LOL LOL LOL
OH......... It's just about countdown time for me here! Meeting my
consultant on the 26th!!!! :
~Peace N' Eternal Blessings To You ALL!!!!
~Ericka

peace sandy....glad to here the locks are doing fine....the gray
hair....funny you should mention it....i'm iso a natural dye to cover my gray
too....i'm very excited about the sislocs though....i can't wait to have my
own hair done....thanks for keeping me posted regarding your
locs....sisterhood is awesome....peace...sharon

I just thought I'd post this for those of you who are thinking about
getting Sisterlocks.
As you know if you've read my website, one of the things that I was a bit
apprehensive about was the millions of parts that show in your head when
the Sisterlocks are new. I had been told that they fill in over time, but
was never sure how much time. The instructions that I was given with the
starter kit say that the parts will fill in after 2 or 3 washings.
When I got my Sisterlocks I loved the hair but hated all those parts. My
dad actually thought someone had taken a razor and cut little squares in my
head! He was NOT pleased, to say the least. LOL! I had to explain it to
him, and he settled down a bit but still looked at my head really closely
every time he saw me. :-)
Now for the update: Today is exactly two weeks. I haven't washed my hair
yet. I was just in the mirror getting ready to go out when I realized that
the parts are ALL FILLED IN. No more scalp! Yippee!!!
Now what do I do about all this grey that is now so prominent in my
hairline? Should I or shouldn't I?
-- Sandy
http://home.earthlink.net/~diamonique/sisterlocks/journey.html
"A celebrity is one who is known to many persons he is glad he doesn't know."
--H. L. Mencken

After 3 days of seeing almost nothing but locked and
natural sisters, was really strange being at work today.
Except for one sister with braids, I didn't see another
nappy head. It was almost like returning to the real
world after attending a Christian retreat (or advance).
I wanted to walk up to a sistah and say, "My sistah, why
do you continue to perm? Don't you realize how beautiful
your natural hair is?"
Even looking at Oprah when I got home today is strange.

In a message dated 8/1/00 12:10:13 PM Central Daylight Time,
diamonique@... writes:
<<
Someone asked about a Sisterlocks consultant in the Chicago area. Deb
Belton is certified and she's in that area. You can email her at
happynNappy@...
.
She can also give you names of others in the area so you can see if any are
closest to you.
-- Sandy
Thanks so much Sandy! I did not see Chicago listed on the website as an area
with consultants. I was starting to feel so envious and frustrated when
reading your testimonies and thinking that I could not get Sisterlocks myself.
Carol

I am new to this group. I would like to know if there are any Sisterlock
consultants in the Chicago area. I have written the people at the website
but have not gotten an answer as yet.
Carol

Someone asked about a Sisterlocks consultant in the Chicago area. Deb
Belton is certified and she's in that area. You can email her at
happynNappy@....
She can also give you names of others in the area so you can see if any are
closest to you.
-- Sandy

Hey Happy, Nappy, Locked Sistahs!
It was a lot of fun and I can't describe the beauty and
variety of Sisterlocks! Pat took lots of pictures (I
helped some) so maybe they will be posted soon. As you
noticed, Sandy, pictures don't do Sisterlocks justice but
it is better than nothing. Over 100 people attended (could
have been 200+) and most arrived on Saturday. I gotta tell
ya, Sisters, I've never seen so many beautiful ladies in
one place in my entire life. It made me very proud to be
a sister who is celebrating my nappy hair in this way.
I'm glad to be home though, I don't think I could stand
it if ALL of the sisters around me looked that good
everyday. (At least I'm being honest about it.)
There were sisters with 2 inch baby Sisterlocks
and those with 36+ inch Sisterlocks. (Sandy, I met
your loctician --- girl, her locs are lovely.) I will
never listen to anyone who says that you can't have
long, mature, & healthy Sisterlocks. The smallness
of the locs and the method of tightening is the
reason they can grow very long and remain healthy.
Everyone was beautiful. One young white woman stopped me
to comment about how beautiful the ladies were and about
our lovely hair. I told her that she, too, could get
Sisterlocks but would probably need to get a curly perm
first. There was another white woman who informed us that
a curly perm made it possible for her get them.
Friday:
General Meeting, Networking, Dinner. Mostly Sisterlocks
consultants arrived on Friday so the few pure Sisterlocks
supporters like myself were in the minority.
Consultants come from all walks of life: college
professors (like Dr. Cornwell & my sister Dr. Mann),
attorneys, nurses, IT Professionals (like Ms Hunley), and
even work-at-home moms. JoAnne talked about the new
directions she is taking the Sisterlocks business and
how it will effect consultants.
My take:
Dr. Cornwell is a brilliant academician and visionary but
she needs experienced assistance in business big time.
Her attorney, also a Sisterlocks consultant (fabulous locs),
should be helpful. I think she still needs to bring on board
a trusted BUSINESS partner. I mean someone who has spent a
minimum of 10 years in corporate America management.
(This is very good time to become a Sisterlocks
consultant, Sandy.)
Saturday:
Classes, shopping, networking, glamour shots, fashion
show, poetry reading, dancing, and super fine men filled
up the day.
Brotherlocks -- they were FINE! Not nearly enough of them
though. My sister has only been a consultant since February
and has worked on 20+ heads working part-time. She gave
birth to 6 Sisterlocks customers on her own and 3 of them
are men! I don't think other people have the same
experience as she does, however.
That is all for now. I'm a little wiped out (my plane home
left at 6:15AM so I've been up since 3:30 AM).

Hah! Got your attention, didn't I?
As you all know, my Sisterlocks are a week old. I am loving this hair! But
I have a question. One of many probably. :-)
I've heard people mention little balls forming on the ends of their locks.
When can I expect to see these little balls forming on my locks? Do they
form on the locks with permed hair? My locks are half virgin hair and half
permed. The permed ends were not left free, but were locked in the
Sisterlocks pattern. It's very pretty and I love it! But will these permed
& locked ends behave the same as the virgin hair?
-- Sandy (jealous of Pat and everyone else at the Homecoming)

Hey Sandy,
Funny you should ask about me. I'm sitting in the home of Kim Hall a
Sisterlock consultant in San Diego, getting my Sisterlocks straw
set. Fatima Allen also a consultant of Tallahesse Florida is also
helping. Michelle Laron of Rancho Cucamonga, CA uses this style on
her clients often and offered to show us how to do it.
Her web site....
http://hometown.aol.com/sistalockr/myhomepage/profile.html
The unity going on here is unreal. Yes Sista ... getting along.
Kim's husband who is a photgrapher offered to photo the finsihed work
for her portfolio. All of this was a random thought ... unplanned.
Look for the story by Kim later after she returns from Italy ....
No I'm not jealious at all .... No sisita "hating" here. After all
I am in her home now..... SMILE.. She leaving on Tuesday.
A get-a-way with the hubby ... you go "Miss" Kim. At least she does
not have to take a bunch of hair "stuff" with her. Have fun Kim....
Anyway......
I put down the VISA and decided to get Sisterlock trained. So both
today and tomorrow I am in class.
I will talk more about this next week when I update my web page. It
was great meeting Dr. Cornwell. She has such a sweet spirit. I
respect her even more.
To see so many beatiful Black people ... took me to a different level.
I will return home a different person.
OH ...I did not take as many pictures as I really would have liked
to. You find yourself so busy talking the camera gets put aside.
Several have offered to send me pictures.
For now I must go ...... I need time to exhale.
Peace and nappiness ..
Love Pat

I know some are in San Diego at the Homecoming, but what about the rest of you?
And why hasn't Pat posted any news from the Homecoming. She must be having
way too much fun! No time to think of us unfortunates back home. :-)
-- Sandy
http://home.earthlink.net/~diamonique/sisterlocks/journey.html
"A celebrity is one who is known to many persons he is glad he doesn't know."
--H. L. Mencken

I've added a guestbook to my site. Check me out at
http://globalguest.com/gb/DIAMONIQUE/guestbook.html
-- Sandy
http://home.earthlink.net/~diamonique/sisterlocks/journey.html
"A celebrity is one who is known to many persons he is glad he doesn't know."
--H. L. Mencken

Greetings Everyone!
Well......I finally made contact with a consultant and I have my
consultation scheduled for next month on the 26th!!!! (She only
comes down this way once a month) : < ( But the vibes were SOOO
good!!! We of course talked hair and sisterlock's and then just
started talking about other things that were important to us. She
seems like such a positive sista! It's a month away, but I'm SOOOOOOO