Influenster- Fierce Voxbox

I was super ecstatic when the Influenster Fierce Voxbox arrived at my doorstep. Who doesn’t like free products? I know I do. This box was sooo on point because it had a few brands that I currently use as well as a few products that I’ve been dying to try but not buy.     

Here’s what I got in my Fierce Box…

·        Shea Moisture Argan Oil & Almond Milk Shampoo & Blow Out Crème

·        Vaseline Jelly

·        Sinful Colors Nail Polish in Kiss Goodnight

·        Carefree Act- Fresh Regular Liners

·        Madam C.J. Walker Softening & Silkening Brassica Seed Oil

As much as I wanted to enjoy the Shea Moisture hair products, I decided not to use it, as the package wasn’t enough to cover my entire head of hair. Nonetheless, the smell was great. If you’ve never used Vaseline Jelly, where have you been? This standout product is good for sooo many things and the main is to combat ash bye ashey. I used this on the heels of my feet because you know how heels can get and topped it off with comfy socks for soft feet the next morning.

I’m a fan of Sinful Colors Nail Polish because of the value as well as the quality. This is one inexpensive product that has a range of shades, goes on easily, and has minimal chips. Plus the color I received works on ALL skin complexions. The Carefree Act liners went in to use immediately. I’m a daily liner girl TMI and I love the fact that this particular brand is sooo breatheable.

Lastly, the G.O.A.T Madam C.J. Walker, who happened to be THE FIRST melaninated millionaire. Ever since her release of products at Sephora I’ve been wanting to test them out. I like that the packaging of this oil resembled something that would come from an apothecary. The consistency was light and smelled amazing. Although my hair is in its natural poufy state, I’d like to see how this works when my hair is straightened.

 *This product was sent to me complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes. All opinions are my own*

NoVa Supper Club: Hanks Pasta Bar

Last week I had an opportunity to meet for dinner with some of my fellow Yelpers. I was ecstatic that Alexandria my hood was chosen and I wouldn't have to battle traffic to make it out. Also, I'd been dying to try Hank's Pasta Bar ever since it opened and this was the perfect excuse to dine out.

I love the Industrial feel

Cute Decor for the win

I arrived a few minutes late but I was still able to find free, yes free street parking. I will say if you decide to visit after reading this post go a few minutes early to find free parking, lol. The restaurant is on the corner lot and a bit small. However, upon entering, you can tell that it's filled with so much personality. This Italian restaurant bypasses the traditional uppity vibe and has a trendy down to earth vibe.

Luckily the good peeps from Yelp as well as fellow Yelpers already had a table reserved. We had an awesome waiter that was very familiar with the menu and offered several recommendations when asked. The complimentary seasoned oyster crackers were sooo good; kinda reminded me of the Goldfish they give at their "sister restaurant" Hank's Oyster Bar. We started off with a few appetizers which consisted of Grilled Baby Octopus, Burrata, and Mussels.  This was my first time having grilled baby octopus and although it was seasoned well I wasn't a fan of the texture. But I'm really happy that I tried it.

For my entree, I thought I'd get the Carbonara that I saw in the pics I'd stalked earlier, however it was no longer on the menu. I asked the waiter for his opinion and I went with the Beef Bolognese Lasagna which was such a great choice. There was also a lot of it on the plate. I made sure to eat only half so I could have leftovers for work smart girl as well as make room for dessert. For the dessert I went with the Key Lime Pie because I'd had it at their other restaurant and it tasted just as I remembered. If I wan't trying to get fine for the Summer I definitely would have got another slice!!!

If you're in Alexandria, definitely give Hank's Oyster Bar a try and let me know what you think.

Shots Fired

Last night I had an opportunity to see a special screening of Shots Fired. #ShotsFired is a 10-part event mystery that examines the dangerous aftermath of two racially charged shootings by law enforcement in a small southern town. With amazing music, and an all-star cast led by Sanaa Lathan, Stephan James, Mack Wilds and Helen Hunt, "Shots Fired" will entertain and challenge perspectives. 

The people behind the scenes of this screening laid it out for us. There were hors d'oeuvres and wine were served, as well as two open bars. I’d never been to the Newseum but they did an awesome job accommodating everyone and having the #ShotsFired picture plastered all over.

Right from the beginning to the end of the show there was an emotional connection. A connection to the characters as well as the story line. Everything was so relateable. And at the end we were left in the dark and wanted more.

Gave up alcohol for Lent

These were amazing

Afterwards, we were treated to Q&A session hosted by April Ryan shes fab who brought out the actual cast in the series; Sanaa Lathan, Stephan James, Mack Wilds, and Richard Dreyfuss as well as one of the directors, Reggie Rock Bythewood (who also did New York Undercover that was my show in high-school).   

via Mike James

This is definitely a series that you won’t want to miss.The series premieres March 22 at 8/7c on FOX, prior to the spring return of "Empire" at 9/8c.