Transitioning Files: Episode One

Hello to all of my transitioning ladies, relaxed ladies, natural ladies, and of course those undecided ladies =). This will be the first "episode" of my transitioning files. This is the first of many as this will be a very long journey. Lets begin with the basics shall we. I was natural until I was around the age of eight years old, I believe. I've always had long thick and full natural hair but it became to much for my mom to handle so I became relaxed. I made the decision to transition this year, 2010. So I was natural for eight years, relaxed for 10 years, and I plan on transitioning for the next 2 years, 48 months, or 104 weeks however you want to phrase it. My last relaxer was July 17, 2010 so I am currently 16 weeks post. So I've managed to get 16 weeks under my belt and I only have 88 more weeks to go, not that bad right =).

My Transitioning Regimen:

• Deep conditioning weekly is a must for me and something I can never do without
• Cowashing my hair as many times as I need during the week
• Moisturizing and sealing my hair on a daily basis
• Light protein once a week and a hard protein once a month
• ACV rinses once a month really helps with moisture
• Protective styling and low manipulation styles works wonders for me
• I only detangle in the shower never on dry hair
• Moisture, moisture, moisture is the biggest part of my regimen

All in all I have no complaints on this journey of mine. I haven't come across any major issues that I haven't been able to solve. No excessive shedding or breakage. I've figured out my go to styles so managing my hair isn't a problem. This is the longest time that I've been without a relaxer so I'm proud of myself for doing so well so far *pats self on the back*. I'm so anxious to finally make it to the 6th month of transitioning and beyond. I'm ready to see my texture and see the fullness of my hair. Everything is great for me as of now, just hoping it stays this way.

Just a small recap. I will not be doing the big chop at any time during my transition. I will however trim my hair when I apply heat. I rarely use heat on my hair and I'm trying to stay away from heat during my transition but I will be using heat about every six months or so. The last time I applied heat on my hair was at the end of July or the very beginning of August (either the first or second day) approximately two weeks after heat was applied on my relaxer day. I know I know that wasn't the best but I've vowed to leave heat alone so that I don't cause damage. I do plan to apply heat in February for Valentines day and I'll do my first trim then and also a length check since I haven't done one. Only 88 weeks left to go on this transition wish me luck =)