My Spread the Love Adventure

I want to start off by saying that I had an absolute blast. I LOVE Matrix as a company. I've never been around so many amazing people in one place. I loved all of the finalists, every single one of them. This is something I will never ever forget. I didn't make top 6 though. Maybe I'll try one last time next year, who knows. Anyways I'll share some pictures in a little bit..I just wanted everyone to know that I had a great time, and it was a very positive experience.

Matrix Total Results

This has to be my new favorite line. It smells fantastic, but it's not like a heavy scent! I noticed less tangles after just one wash. My hair seemed to stay soft and silky all day long. This is exactly what I've been looking for. I've tried a TON of shampoos for my hair, and this by far is the best to date. My hair isn't unhealthy, or anything, so it's been rough finding something I love. It seems to have some of it's luster back, and great manageability. Anyways I just wanted to rave about this product line because this is the first shampoo/conditioner I've loved enough to really talk about! :)

Thanksgiving and Getting ready for NYC

We went to Texas for Thanksgiving, and honestly- I didn't want to come back. We had suchhhh a great time!! We got to see our church family back home, and I've missed everyone, especially my mom and my cousin.

We started elf on the shelf when we got home, and the kids LOVE looking for "Clarence" the elf..lol.. It is truly so adorable hearing them tell me about how he went home to the north pole to see Santa and the reindeer! It just reminds me how simple and sweet kids are! I'll get some pictures uploaded from our trip soon.

On another note, only 11 days until I leave for New York. I am so excited, nervous, and every other emotion packed into one. This is just crazy! I keep going through my clothes over and over trying to figure out what to wear/not wear. I've never had to ride the bus, or fly alone, so I'm kind of nervous about that. I just can't wait,and there will be pictures to come after that as well!! I'm hoping to go Rockefeller and see this beautiful tree! I'm a little sad I'll experience these things without my husband and kids to share it with, but at the same time happy that I get to do something for myself.

On that note, I'll update again soon! :)

FINALIST!!

This girl is a finalist for Matrix Spread the Love, and I couldn't be more excited. I will be going to New York next month for the final interview. I just cannot believe this. Small town girl, never really been anywhere...this is so exciting. I cannot wait to meet everyone, see New York during Christmas time! AHHHHH I can't even put my excitement into words!! YAYYY ..lol


EEEEKKKKK
 This was me yesterday ..lol :

My Veteran

It's a few days late, but I just wanted to say Happy Veterans day to a special man in my life, my husband Greg!! I do miss the army life sometimes, but I'm so glad to have you!! Also my uncle Donnie, and my brother Aaron are both currently serving. <3 them! :) As well as MANY friends, and extended family!!


Other than that...just a few days left for Spread the love voting... I'm getting pretty anxious about that..I hope I'm doing well with votes! :)

I PASSED state boards...wooo...got pretty good scores as well, ANDDD

we will be leaving for Texas soon to see my family, and I am SO beyond excited. I miss my family terribly! And of course I miss southern food, sweet tea, and honkey tonks, and lets not forget good ole southern charm...

Life is good right now... I'm just hoping with STL it'll get even better. I hope that next time I write a blog it's to announce I'm going to NYC!!

Night all!!

It just isn't good enough for me.

Well I wasn't chosen as one of the 18 on the panels list. I can still make this though- with votes. It ends on the 15th, and I'd like to say I'm doing well, but I really have no idea. I've been out and about in this little town networking, and telling everyone I can all about Spread the Love and what I am trying to achieve. I am so happy for the chosen finalists. They deserve it, they all seem like such wonderful people. I actually have become friends with one of the girls. I think she's pretty awesome and I hope she makes it all the way.
With that being said, I've seen so many people say how happy they are just to have made it this far. Is it weird that I'm not?I WANT to make it further. I want to push myself further, and I'm not satisfied with only making it to this round. I've never been one of those girls that settles for last place because I did my best. I want to be first place because I worked my booty off to get there. *shrug* I don't know..I'm just not happy with this. And that is why I've been out and about trying to get local support from everyone to get these votes. I feel like if I made finals, and then got cut...I could be satisfied knowing I did all that I could. That I actually WORKED for those votes to be there. That's the kind of person I am. So for me to say that I'm happy with it, I'd be lying.
If I don't make it through voting round, I will go to work, work on my skills, and try again next year....working even harder. I know that there is a bigger purpose for me. My big break has to come sometime. With all the things we've been through as a family, all that we've given to so many others, eventually it has to make it's full circle back to me. Right?
That's what I'm hoping anyways. I'll just keep holding onto this hope until there isn't anything to hang onto left...and that'll be when the last two names are announced. In my heart, I feel like neither of those names will be mine, but that could just be the negative me speaking.

On another note.... I took state boards on Monday. Talk about terrifying. I was nervous the ENTIRE time. I will find out in about a week if I passed. I hope I did. I'm pretty confident that I did just fine though.

And last but not least- it's snowing here- finally. The kids are so excited, but I'm ready for it not to be slush so I can take them out to play in it! :)

Ahhh My stomach is in knots

They announced today that on the 1st of November they will release the names of the 18 the panel has chosen to go to New York for spread the love, then voting will begin for the last two spots. I am soooo nervous. My stomach has been in knots since I read it. I want this SOOOOOO badly, odds are against me as far as numbers go, but I just hope they see in me what I see in myself, along with what so many others see as well. It's hard to know where life is going to take me, but for this I just had to jump in head first and see what happens. SPL is all I can think about, it's all I talk about...lol...Greg is like okay Ericka - there is nothing you can do now..just have faith. Well.... here's to that hope I make it. This could change my career, my life!! AHHHHHHHHH Good thoughts!! :)

And Good Luck to all the other contestants..there is some seriously awesome people in the running for this!! 

Spread the Love 2012

For the semi finals we were asked to make a blog telling Matrix more about ourselves. I have been thinking long and hard about this blog trying to find the perfect way to tell them about myself. I finally realized there is not a perfect way to talk about myself, and things are better unscripted so here it goes.

I am a 27 year old wife, and mother of two. We moved to Wisconsin from Texas about a year and a half ago, and that's when I realized I wasn't fulfilling ALL of my dreams. I loved the army life, and being a stay at home mom, but my life was missing something. I had always wanted to go back to school, and thought cosmetology related things were fun, and intriguing. A lot of my friends are stylists, amazing stylists, and I wanted to be a part of this world. I didn't know much at the time, but I enrolled into the local school, and quickly realized how much this industry had to offer.

I grew up in a small town where everyone knew everyone, funny how I ended up in this town where there is one stoplight and everyone knows everyone.

I will do anything for anyone, and I try to. Whether it be monetary donations to charities, or going to pick a friend up on the side of the road because they ran out of gas, participating in charity walks/events, giving clothing to shelters, or donating blood, paying for the next tables lunch, letting the woman with a crying child cut in line...whatever it is...I always try to pay it forward...I don't like the recognition, I just do it because it is what is right.

There are some questions that were optional to answer on our blogs and I've decided to answer just a few more!

What does it mean to you to be a hairdresser?

Being a hairdresser means I get to showoff my creativity. I get to build relationships with people, even if my role is just being there to listen. A hairdresser impacts people on a daily basis, so it's important that you are a positive person and role model in this industry. I get to make people look and feel beautiful. It fulfills my life, added to my family...I am complete.

 When do you feel the most creative?

I feel the most creative in the moment. I always try to prepare for things, but sometimes when you are in the process, you just get this clarity and things turn out perfectly.

What is your favorite classic hairstyle and why?

I love the chignon. I think it is classy, and simple, and suits anyone well. It can be jazzed up or left classic. It is simply a beautiful style for any occasion.

If I could have dinner with any industry celebrity or icon, who would it be and why?

 I had to think about this one for a minute because there are so many people in this industry that are inspiring, and that I adore. I decided I would love to have dinner with Martin Parsons. I love updo's, and he in my opinion is an updo king.  I just adore watching the way he tucks in his bobby pins, how he so easily twists, hides, smooths, and backcombs the hair. Everything he does just flows and always looks so beautiful. I would want to know where he gets his inspiration, and of course learn tips and tricks. 1...2...3...4...5...6...7...8...9...10...11...12....easy as that! lol

If you could make one change in the world, what would it be and why?

 I would end all bullying. Bullying is a chain reaction. I think we should all be nice to everyone, we have no idea what individuals are going through. I think violence would drop, and things would all around be more pleasant. It would increase self esteems, and lower loneliness.  How could that not make things better?

Why do you want to be a part of Spread the Love?<3

For ME, personally, spreading the love is about giving back on a larger scale that I can currently do so. I already try and do what I can, but to be able to impact so many people is...AMAZING. I feel like if I can help or change just one persons life then it is worth it. I will gain knowledge, relationships,and experiences that are irreplaceable. I am the type of person that gives everything I do one hundred percent, no matter what it is. I am a hard worker, and I am not afraid of anything that comes my way. I hope Matrix can see how perfect I am for this, how badly that I want this, and also how I am willing to work my tail off to get it! I have support from everyone in my life, and even from people I don't even know. THAT is amazing.

Thank you Matrix for the chance of a lifetime!

I made it into the semi finals!

I am so excited, I made it into the semi-finals for Spread the Love 2012 with Matrix. There is some tough competition from what I can tell, but I'm not afraid of some hard work and showing my dedication. Short post tonight because I need to get to bed, but I just wanted to share!! SOOOOOO exciting!!

Spread The Love 2012

Well, I submitted all my information. I did the best I could on my video to just be myself. Funny thing is I had to hold my camera all by myself. I recorded probably 25 videos, and then more today trying to get it perfect. I ended up using mostly the very first video I ever recorded. Funny how that works isn't it. I am so excited about this, it's a long process, but I just think I am so dedicated and "real" and they will see that.

Anyways, I am going to go relax and watch Bolt with the kiddos...I hope everyone has a wonderful night!!

Loving this time....

With the kids!! I am having a blast with them. Although I have to think of new activities daily to keep them busy!! We have been trying to enjoy being outside as much as we can, while we still can!! I have missed these kiddos! Ah this is love.

I'm all done..wooty woot!

Well..... on Monday at 2:15 I graduated from cosmetology school! It's been a long road, and a fun one at that. I am so ready for new adventures, and I am so excited about this industry. I am taking a little time off before I jump right into work to be with my kiddos.I have missed them so much, and I am enjoying every single moment I can with them!! :) But YAYYY!! I can't wait to see where life takes me now! Just some pictures from graduation day- My girls are the best- they brought me all kinds of balloons and flowers...including the two 3ft balloons ...lol.... I have made some great friends in this process, and I'm going into an exciting career- what more could a girl ask for?!

Oh yeah, I'm dark

I forgot I wanted to post pictures..I went dark...WOOT..I love dark hair. I don't know why, I just do...sooooo as of today only ONE more month of school..wootttt....

Day 1 of bootcamp, 2nd round of no carb/no sugar...ahh

Okay so many of you know- I have some weight to lose. I am determined to lose it. I lost 20 give or take on my own, but I needed some help. My husband has been going to this place here in town, and he loves it. He kept on and on telling me to just try it. Today ....I did... OH MY GOODNESS.... yeah I'm sore from my neck to my toes..lol... it was worth it I'm sure, but geez. I can't believe I'm at the low end of this and it's hard for me. There was even a girl in there six months pregnant doing harder things than I was. BUT we all have to start somewhere. The first step was getting up this morning and going, even though I REALLY, REALLY didn't want to..lol... I started the no carb,no sugar thing again- it's only for 14 days, but I had such good results the last time, I figured I could do it again. Besides, my body could use a cleanse from all the junk I've been eating. Anyways..here's to the next two weeks of nothing really that good as far as food goes, and hoping that this boot camp gets easier for me!If you like to workout- look for a little place that does crossfit/bootcamp stuff... it's crazy!

WOOTTT

Well, I passed the test. I got an 89 on my written test. I'm kind of bummed, I was shooting for a 95 or higher, but I did my best, and that's all I can ask for. Kind of funny though I received an 89 on my written, but I got a 98 on my practical...Just thought it was odd. After about 150 questions I was over that test though! Luckily for state board there are only 100. Anyways I'm off to bed- I am super tired. I just wanted to say WOO HOO! I'm DONE testing in school..just state boards and then I'm official!! YAY!!
Night all!

My final test.....

At the AOC that is. I take the written portion tomorrow. I am so nervous. It's also exciting knowing that after that- I graduate, on to state boards, and then I'll be a licensed cosmetologist! WOOT! I cannot believe how quickly this 1800 hours has gone by. I've got some exciting things going on in my life. I am just so happy with life right now. After school, I'm going to apply for the Spread the Love tour 2012, and just pray that God will take me in the right direction with it. If that doesn't happen for me, which I think it will,( I'm a winner, I'm motivated, I'm a leader, I love to learn, and I deserve it) I will just take a break to stay at home until we move back to Texas.

Zoey has been singing her ABC song for me..it's so cute...she loves to sing, and dance, and play her little piano...but she also loves he man..lol

Kellen- man he's so cute. He is always helping Zoey, and teaching her colors and all kinds of things big brothers do.

Greg is good- just working and being the best dad, and husband he can.

It's been a long journey- with many more years to come, but so much love is in this house! :)

Wish me luck for tomorrow!! EEEKKKK...

ahhh living the good life.

I'm sitting here just waiting on my pretzel bread to finish rising, so I can make these pretzels....but I'm realizing it's been awhile since I just had some "me" time...really since I've done anything for ME! My tennis shoes have holes in them, but my kids have brand new sandals and shoes. My clothes are older, but my kids have the latest styles. I never realized how much you give and give as a parent. Looking back now I feel bad that I always asked my mom for more. I'd like a nice hot bubble bath ALONE, actually I'd like to enter the bathroom alone...haha. I'd like to go travel and be able to see the things I want, and not the characters walking around. haha.
but ....
I wouldn't change my life for anything. I would like to do something for me, and my time will come, but I'm starting to realize how much I love watching their little faces light up when they get a new toy, or earn a star on their chart, or play He Man and I'm Skeletor...haha...

One of these days though, I'll put myself out there and take chances, and live my dream..until then- I'll keep living the good life one day at a time!

Update all about MEEE!

Hahahah ... Well I went and reread this blog and realized I did introduce myself but it's been awhile. I'm still me... but I'm now 27!! eekk...that coming from the girl that swore she'd stay 21 forever :) My kiddos are now 2 and 3... I've been married for 4 and a half years now...We are more than likely moving BACK to Texas lol. I've had a lot of fun up here, met a LOT of really cool people that have impacted my life in a very positive way. I wouldn't change it, but I will always be a Texas girl. Besides my son has started calling cokes- pop...lol..and we cannot have that! :) Greg is a correctional officers with juveniles, and I think he's very good with these kids. I have lost another 20 pounds WOOT! I could not be more excited about that!
I have BIG hair goals..lol.. I want to travel and do, and see, and learn from the best. I remember telling my instructors when I began that if I was going to do this - I wanted to be the best! I wanted to be one of those people you see in the style magazines! I have decided to apply for the Matrix Spread the Love 2012. I have HUGE support from my friends in the industry as well as my family. I've spent time being the army wife, the stay at home mom...THIS is what I want to do for ME! My time has come! I couldn't be more excited, I just really hope that I can make the cut! I love this industry so much... going to the hair show was almost overwhelming because I wanted to see, watch, and do everything there! Okay I'll stop with that, but I just hope that I can fulfill my dreams. I'm still a wife and mom, but we have dreams too!
Other than that- nothing new is really going on! Alright I'll go to bed- for real this time! :)
Night!

Look how far I've come

Soooo I figured since I'm almost done with school I'll go ahead and post a time line if you will of hair...some of them not so good, but good for the time that I was doing them. Looking back I wish I'd have taken more pictures. You live and learn I guess. The first picture is my very first attempt at pin curls....which have gotten a million times better! :) STill not perfect- but you never know how to do everything...The next (with the candy) would be my first updo in the classroom! We had to put those out for a competition. It's candyland/willy wonka/grease inspired... I actually won that updo contest, but looking back there are things I would've changed :) I still think it's pretty rocking! The next updo would be my Gwen Stephani inspired updo! :) The next is my lovely niece Madison- she wanted a braid and some curls, so this is what I came up with ... there is a braid on both the bottom and top with curls in the middle- pretty cute if I do say so myself :)

The next would have to be my favorite I've done so far- my peacock for our Halloween updo contest... Looking back I wish I'd have JUST used her hair, but still a LOT of work went into this. I did corn rows between each row of her real hair feathers and attached real peacock feathers in... I had a lot of fun, and I did end up winning first prize. I was happy and shocked, we did have soooo many good ones this year! Anyways I know I've done sooo much more, I just wanted to share some I was proud of, and to see how much I've grown. I'll try to do another one soon so we can see how much better I'm still getting !! :)