The Bridge to Bliss

So this is what I wake up to? Surely, I'm not the only one. Beyoncé has dropped a new album, y'all. The title? Beyoncé.  Here's the link:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/beyonce/id780330041 JEEZ, BEY! 14 songs and 17 videos fused together to make an album that no one even knew about. That. That is the biggest news of it all. There was: • No marketing • No single • No announcement  • No anticipation What tactic was used? Word of mouth. Even if you aren't a Beyoncé Stan, one must admit that this approach was bold and risky. It also was genius! In the age of social media (have y'all checked Instagram?), what would work better for proclaimed "King Bey"? Jeez oh peez, Bey. I haven't bought the album because I'm a broke college student, but with the use of thirty second previews on iTunes, these are my premature reviews: • It's not her best album, but it's bound to be da bomb regardless • Blue Ivy is absolutely precious  • The songs seem kind ...

And I still haven't gotten the hang of things... haha But alas, my first quarter (not semester) of college has finished and it wasn't too "shabby"! Big 10 Football can't be beat! Fun events helped me become closer to others and gain friends! My handy dandy partner-in-crime, MY ROOMMATE! I've had such a wonderful experience here at Northwestern. Through chasing down random people for interviews, writing "speed ledes" and reading the AP Style book until I can't anymore, I've become a much better writer and journalist. Through being myself and being real, I've gained some friends that I can see staying in my life for a long time.  Through hard work, I've finished the quarter with grades to be proud of. Through dedication, I'm proud of mentoring I've done this quarter and the impact I've made on others' lives. Through trial and error, I've learned what it means to be independent and not run to...

Maybe it doesn't seem that these two are related, but watch me make it work! FIRST THINGS FIRST, Hello all! I'm back from the magic wonderland that is Northwestern. Well, not really. For one, I'm not technically back. I'm still in Evanston, I'm just back on Blogger after yet another hiatus. And, don't get me wrong, Northwestern is very much a wonderland at times. But times like now, which is midterm season, the glow of the magic wears away. Yes! It is midterm time here at NU, and all throughout campus are stressed out nerds who just want to pass. I'm one of them! I know, I know, stress is bad. But it's also easy. Between having two quizzes on top of multiple writing assignments every week in one class, over 200 pages of reading a week for another, trying to slowly become fluent in another language, AND extra-curriculars? SAVE ME, I'M DROWNING!! Honestly, it's so much!! So how have I been coping? Enjoying the simple things: time with fri...

Haven't done one of these in a while! I listened to Drake's new album, and one song specifically will not leave my head. So I'm spreading it with you!

Aloha! I know, I know...long time no see. But this time, it isn't because I've simply forgotten about the B2B. College is... phew! It's fun but there is very little time to blog. Recap, anyone? Classes: Are going pretty good. I have not aced every single assignment with ease, but I haven't expected to. But I'm not slacking and doing poorly. I'm doing well! My assignments are being turned in on time and they are all done with full effort (and are spent at least an hour on). We're headed into week #4, so it's time for me kick into high-gear in order to finish strong.  Extra-curriculars: In High School, I was known for having a full schedule. To avoid spreading myself too thin too soon, I've started out with only a few clubs. I'm a member of the Black Student Union, I write for a campus publication, I joined a student Christian group, and I have a job/volunteer opp mentoring intercity Chicago teens in journalism! That's enough right now...

Hey, it's me again! No rants on natural hair, but just a tad bit of advertisement. A while ago, I was published in the online magazine Brownstone Magazine for my article titled "Hues of Beauty" . It was about how foolish the whole "Dark skin vs. Light skin"tension in the Black community is. If you're interested, feel free to click here and give it a read . But this post is about my most recent article published in the article for its September issue and relaunch! I'm excited because prior to being approached to write this article, I was having a conversation with some friends about it!! So please please PLEASE read my newest article entitled, "The Black Girl Dilemma" . I know that titled probably caused you to raise an article, but please wait to form an opinion AFTER you read it! And while you are over at Brownstone, check out some of the others articles! All of the correspondents and the EIC especially put a lot of work into this rela...

Yes, the money is all mine! But actually this post is about hair. As I have told you all time and time again, I have natural hair. But being the Sierra I am, I like to change things up and keep people wondering what my next step will be. I'm also unapologetically an individual, so many times the things I do will not and do not seem mainstream. In the past, I've dyed my hair "purple" with semi-permanent dye. Lovely, right? However, such purple hair was only done with a rinse , meaning that after a couple of washes, the purple fades away. So now, I want to take things to the next level. Let me give you all a visual.  So I want to lift the color of my hair in the front section like so, And then let the purple take over and reign like this beauty has done, To me, this will be the needed touch to give me the "umph" I've been wanting for so long. I know what you're thinking, "So why not do it then?" Here's the d...

I know what you're thinking, "Long time no blog, Sierra!" Well, I've been adjusting to my new life and I think I finally have the hang of things. If you don't know what the term "new life" refers to, I mean my life as a college girl! If you read my last few blog posts, you will know that I've been on campus since September 3rd! I haven't actually been in class, as I was here for a writing/cultural program. And, boy, did I love it. I learned about things such as inclusion, love, and success. I learned about accepting others. I learned to not put boundaries on myself.  I also gained some friendships that I see lasting for a very very long time. Living with 20 other girls on a floor may seem daunting at first, but it brought us all so much closer to one another. We went from the awkward "So...where are you from?" To "Is your boyfriend really coming? I'm jealous!"  And beyond just the friendships I've made with the other g...

Tomorrow. It's here. No more counting down. No more wondering 'What if?' No more packing and shopping. I leave for school in the morning. Am I excited? Yes. Am I nervous? Yes. Am I ready? I hope so. What can I say? The time has come that I officially become a Wildcat. Everything is packed, I've had all of my goodbye kisses and hugs, and I've cleared my countdown. Yes, part of me is a bit sad to say goodbye to life as I know it. But just as a song, the beat of life goes on. You can either jam with it or plug your ears (bad analogy?) I'll miss people. I'll call home with sickness. I'll feel lonely. But then I'll realize that this is what I'm meant to do. I've been preparing for this time for so long. Many before me have been homesick, and they made it through just find. People always tell me that college was the best time of their life. I can't fill it full with moping. I'm about to grab life by the reins and claim it! I want to find my...

And operation last minute vacation was a complete SUCCESS! I had a blast in  It definitely was an unforgettable experience. I also bonded with my family, something I truly appreciate prior to my leaving for school.  I am very thankful to have had this opportunity. But, ALAS, the time has come. With less than 5 days until I leave for Evanston, it's time to get things CRACKIN'! Here's everything I have to do before I leave: • Buy more hair products: Since I am a (proud) natural, I have to stock up on products! I need enough to last me until Thanksgiving break, and possible longer than that! Check out my YouTube channel to see my favorite products. • Last minute dorm needs: Yep, you're reading that correctly. I still have all of that to get. However, some things we are planning on buying in Evanston (phew)! What can I say... • Finish a book True proof of my procrastination skills here. Be jealous. I received this book some weeks ago and I don't think I'm passed the...

Today is the very last day of the #31WriteNow challenge! I did it! *cue We Are the Champions*  Well, I didn't blog every single day, but recollecting my previous blogging habits, I've made so much progress thanks to this challenge. People have actually been frequently reading The B2B, I've come up with tons more to write about, and I've breathed a new life into my pre-challenge blog! I really do feel accomplished.  But the push isn't over just because August is over ( seriously though, August only lasted a day ). I will now be participating in Blogtember! That's right! A September blogging challenge! It doesn't start until the 3rd (in honor of the holiday), and I think it will benefit you to tune in. In depth deets will be coming soon, so thank you to those who have read and see you soon to those who will continue to read.  XOXO -Si

Purple? So, just in case you're wondering, the countdown until Northwestern is 3 days in total. Many times, when I tell others that I'm a Northwestern Wildcat, I get the following responses: Wow! You're smart. Northwestern?? Big 10 Northwestern? That's a hard school to get into, woah! Wooooooow! Congrats and the seldom but equally amusing; Oh. (unfamiliar with the school and its prestige) However, for me, and others that look like me, after making it known that we attend a prestigious school, some may think it's because we are black. Or Native American. Or Hispanic. Or a female. Simply, some believe that due to programs like Affirmative Action, people who are unqualified get into schools over those who are qualified.  Here's a question for those people: What does the world look like? When you step outside of your home into the world, you don't see just one type of person. You don't see programmed robots who all only know how to d...

By the way, this was meant to be posted on the 27th, but my blogger app never uploaded it. Anywho, September comes , duhh! Well, not yet. Today, lovelies, I am in full vacation mode! That's right! Seeing as, in exactly a week, I'll be in a truck headed for Evanston, this is my last hoorah before I start at Northwestern.  I'm really thankful to have a family that has gone out of their way to make my last summer at home such a memorable one. Texas, Myrtle Beach, and other super cool things. For the first time, I'm excited for school to start. I know I'll miss a ton of people, but I'm ready and prepared for this next chapter of my life.  But as of today (And tomorrow. And Thursday), school is not my focus. VACATION IS!! XOXO -Si

You read it, tonight is my last night living it up on vacation, as I board the plane for home tomorrow! Not only that, but this is also my last Wednesday night I'll be spending with my family! Next time, I'll be in Evanston ( woah ).   This was an awesome end of the summer hoorah!  XOXO -Si

Here it is, here it is! And plain as day! The video detailing what to do to get a defined twistout on your hair. I understand my last twistout video wasn't as specific as some would have liked, so I made sure to lay it out here! Also, I understand that I only posted a Polyvore set of clothing yesterday, which didn't include any writing. So I am sorry, in case someone was actually depending on a post. Here is the link just in case:  http://youtu.be/sygiR00Ca1g Also, I will be posting more in depth on this, but today a good friend of mine dropped his much anticipated mixtape! I know you may see mixtape promotion a lot on the interwebs, but this stuff has substance, something you will nod your head to and fall in love with. The artist is HAV, who I mentioned in this recent blog post! To make a long story short, HAV is the truth, please please please check him out HERE , my favorite track is Tragedies Dream . I'm actually sitting here wondering why I haven't gotten in...

Legster by sierra-lanae featuring Kate Spade

Sadly, I am. I have officially become a broke college kid. Feel free to send any Ramen. However, my newly broke status has led me to learn a few new trades. Learning to braid and wax eyebrows are some of them, but the most creative is learning to make my own makeup! Whaaaaaat? Yes! I recently learned how to make lipstick out of crayons. And now you can, too! Even if you don't have to avoid Ulta like the plague, it's something uber fun to do. What You'll Need: Crayons Coconut oil (or any essential oil of your choice. Olive, castor, etc.) Vaseline A small glass container (get a small candle, and take the candle out of the jar. Walaa!) Something to stir with Somewhere to put the finished product (I used one of those SMTWTF medicine separators) What You Need to Do: Watch this video!        So, in the end, if you have brown skin like me, then expect more of a lip gloss than a lipstick. But, it applies very smoothly and makes my lips feel really sof...

Well, as of today I have 11 days left. And I guess it hit me: I'm leaving. I'll be 300 miles away from home. Not only away from my family whom I adore, but from the ones I've developed such wonderful relationships with. My friends whom I've had for years, for example, who have been there for me since we've met. Even people who I met not too long ago. Part of the beautiful life God has blessed me with, is those who he connected me with! Now don't get me wrong, I'm still super excited to begin this next and huge step of my life. College is where you find yourself! Where you become the person God has intended for you to be. And I'm eager to become that. But I just want to take this time to appreciate those who have left a footprint on my heart. I'm already crying lol, so if you do, just let the tears flow.  Thank you.  For the support, love, friendship, kinship, good times, bad times, mistakes, mishaps, drama, laughs, tears, smiles, gossip, just freakin...

I can't be the only one on the quarter system, right? Oh...I am? Well at least that's how it see,s this week as all of my High School friends are off to college! Among the pack, some are going to the beloved MSU and U of M. Others are headed north for schools like GVSU and SVSU. And then there are the few going to Upper Peninsula (Michigan Tech) and even New York (Syracuse)!     And then there's me. I still have a whole 12 days until I leave, and that's only for a cultural program. I don't move in until September 16th, and I don't even start classes until September 24th! Crazy! Due to this, many a thoughts have been running through the mind of Sierra. Here are most of them:   And just gonna continue to wait       Logging onto social media sucks: Because everyone keeps posting pictures of their campuses, dorm rooms, or their countdown apps that say "0 days remaining". Quarter system peeps have to look at that stuff and dream! Don...

Hello to all of my Blissers! I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it! Seriously! As I remind you all daily it may seem, I'm au natural. So this comes along with a lot of maintenance. Most times, I do a "Wash and Go" to my hair (washing, moisturizing, and letting your natual curl patter do the rest). But refreshing my hair daily has become a strain and I'm just plain bored. So, I decided to revisit a staple style for many, the twist out! I would do them much more often than I do (my last twistout was 5 weeks ago)! But they never turn out right for me! Well, this time, something worked! Today's twistout is the bomb.com So, without further ado, here it is! OR click HERE to watch it on YouTube   All of the products I used are in the info section of my YouTube video, so just search "sieboone" and you'll find me. You can also find that magically wonderful gel that I use on my edges at Walmart and any Beauty Supply store. It's ...

  Wow!   I honestly cannot believe that I've made it this far on the #31WriteNow challenge! Not only have I gotten much more traffic, I am loving the topics I come up with and the fact that others like them as well. I went from barely blogging to becoming a blog-a-holic. Last night while on FaceTime, I was like "WAIT! I forgot to blog!"   That's how serious this has become! But anyways, today's post comes along with a video! Yessiree, since I only have 14 days until I leave for college, I need to get back in the hang of making and editing videos. If only I had a MacBook. Oh well! On to the video!!        I know the square is tiny, I still have to get better with all this conversion business! But if you'd rather just have the link to the video, here it is:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMvWaySNrp0   Click on it and you can watch over at YouTube! Do you use any staple products, whether you're natural or not? Like, ...

Eat em up, Tigers!!!  That's what they did, and I was there to see it. Yes, I saw the Detroit Tigers wipe out the Royals today. The game was awesome.  But the best part wasn't seeing the home run or the great catches, it was being surrounded by Wildcats! Yes, the purpose of going to the game was to meet up with Detroit area NU admits and alumni! I got so much advice and nuggets and wisdom on:  • My major (journalism) • The Black community at a predominantly white institution • Relationships (with boys & friend wise) • Joining Clubs          - Pledging into a sorority And a bunch more!  Today confirmed that Northwestern is the place for me. Good times with good people.  XOXO -Si

What can I say, life is good. But, as known to many, it is also unfair. The best of us get knocked down sometimes. Life doesn't care who you are. People let us down. We fail at things we may try hard at. We lose friendships. We scrape our knees and shed some tears. But, instead of being the grumpy dwarf, I like to think of a solution. It's okay to be sad. In fact, it's much better than holding that emotion inside of you to bubble up and explode. At some point, we must pick ourselves up and try try again, just as Aaliyah said. Failing inevitably makes us wiser. Tears become lessons learned. The sad days you may be enduring will soon be of the past.  Sometimes, it's easy to look at where we want to be, compare that to where we are now, and feel unaccomplished. But, if you would look at where you are now compared to where you've come from, you'd pick your head up in confidence!  So if life has chosen you to be its captive for now, take what it has to give you. But ...

Ankara Blues by sierra-lanae featuring peplum tops