I hated primary school. 

They say be careful what you wish for. 

My family lost everything.

I did not go to school for roughly a year.

I stayed home every day.

Watched everyone go to school.

All of a sudden being unhappy at school did not compare to just not being there.

Our electricity was cut.

We had no food.

Bailiffs took little of what we had left.

I hid what I thought was valuable when I heard them coming.

I hid my dog.

But today, when people see me.

They judge.

They don't know.   


What I lived.

I lived in fear of judgment.

Until I realised I was being judged.

Their judgments.............

They insulted my life and my experiences.

You have no idea.

Do not judge a book by its cover.

Till today I have never let anyone open me.

But why not, since they have made their own assumptions, but never walked in my shoes.

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

Walk in faith, believe in yourself and understand. Those who judge are blinded by their own thoughts.



byUnknown
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September 30, 2017

A Journey of Little Footsteps: What You Never Saw

I hated primary school.  They say be careful what you wish for.  My family lost everything. I did not go to school for...
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In one job, I was lucky enough to make some lifelong friends, and learn some tips and tricks to survive corporate life!

My favorite was and still is THEME DAYS!

Theme days basically kept me slightly sane and managed to keep my anxiety somewhat at bay.


So if your office makes you feel like you are on the verge of breaking down and there is no way you can leave (YES I fully endorse leaving careers/ jobs that are detrimental to your mental health- once you are able to support yourself of course) This is for you.

It is very simple- all you need is YouTube on your desktop/phone or any music app for that matter. Choose what you're in the mood for that day;

A few of my favorites:


Click the links above for some of my faves!


Create a playlist and go - or let YouTube decide! Since there are so many playlists, you can easily type in a genre/theme, select and work without interruptions.

Also- when things get really stressful. Shut your door and dance! Because no one is watching.




byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 23, 2017

Theme Days!

In one job, I was lucky enough to make some lifelong friends, and learn some tips and tricks to survive corporate life! My favorite w...
Read More

From as long as I can remember, which is sporadic per repressed memory, there is one thing that makes me happy- The Arts.

It's the one time I come alive, where thought I feel this rumbling and complete mayhem in my stomach, I am happiest.

I believe in gifts. More than ever we are given gifts for a purpose.

And if we follow those gifts, that passion; everything else will fall into place ( think about stars aligning... that's it right there).

I also believe hard work and dedication are needed. You can't sit down and expect it to fall into your lap, or can you??

My life is definitely not perfect.

But I can definitely say, when I am following my heart and passion, I am definitely in a better place, spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically.

When I am stubborn, my growth stalls. I resist change = bad situations occurring. I never wanted to acknowledge my action contributed to these things. My insistence on being in control (subconsciously) I didn't even realize. So I experienced what I perceived to be "bad" when it was really a lesson being repeated until I realized and acted accordingly. Like the child being told, "Don't touch the stove, you will burn yourself!" Me= proceed to jump onto the stove.


My indoctrinated desire to fit the mold I was taught to believe was the right way to live.

When I tell you I contributed to my own pressure, it's no joke.

So as the journey continues, I am learning to be accountable. Life isn't just happening to me. I am creating my destiny, my life path, my everything.

Life is happening for me. Not against me.

So throwing caution to the wind, I follow my passion.

Admittedly I still battle daily with shedding teachings of academia and corporate life.

But it will never be fully shed. It's about balance, finding a happy medium.

It will come

My Sunday thoughts, as I prepare for another week of this journey.




byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 17, 2017

Your Passion is Important

From as long as I can remember, which is sporadic per repressed memory, there is one thing that makes me happy- The Arts. It's the...
Read More
Last week I got the Brown Shuga Scrub by Tsimplicity

The description intrigued me,    " ...... can be responsible for skin cell preservation, protects the skin from the adverse effects of UV rays.It makes skin smooth and tones your skin to perfection.Coffee plays a crucial role in regulating cell re-growth, which leads to retained hydration and increased skin elasticity. It also gets rid of dark unwanted spots from your face, arms and back area and also corrects discoloration."

I have an ongoing battle with my skin, one minute it is normal to oily, next minute it is dry and painful, so I am always hesitant to try anything on my skin.

I recently stopped washing my face with "hard water" and started cleansing with witch hazel and ponds cold cream. Which made an IMMENSE difference on my skin. So I decided to give Tsimplicity's Brown Shuga Scrub a go.

Firstly let me get one thing out of the way, there is nothing bad about this product!

When I got home and opened the organic wrapping I immediately contacted Tsimplicity's founder, King Tsii and told her I wanted to eat it!

Trying to not eat the Brown Shuga Scrub!
It smells and looks that good.

So about two days later, after on and off smelling the product for a mood lift, I used it.

It goes on well, applying in an upward circular motion is recommended, you can feel your skin tingling from the caffeine!!!!. I left it on for a while ( got some wrinkles that need to be filled out) and tried not to lick my lips. Then rinsed.

My face was so moisturised I was blown away. As I write this review I have to remind myself to not touch my face, it's that soft!

Also, I am GLOWING! 

Bonus: A little bit goes a LONG LONG way.

This product is definitely a case of quality and quantity.


I can't wait to try the rest of the Tsimplicity line, especially the Honey Oat Mask, that is said to be great for sunburn and has some amazing anti-inflammatory properties (she had me at anti-inflammatory).

Check out Tsimplicity on IG here!and follow the brand's founder King Tsii !










byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 11, 2017

Tsimplicity- Changing my face!

Last week I got the Brown Shuga Scrub by  Tsimplicity The description intrigued me,    " ...... can be responsible for skin cell pre...
Read More


Last night this quote fell into my lap and it screamed at me softly. So much so it went straight to my Instagram feed (I have a slight IG addiction, my love for photos and making memories went from 0 to 100 when my daddy died.)Follow me on IG!!https://www.instagram.com/iamnatalake/

Not just the literal, but that undertone of being the creator of your own destiny! Sometimes you just have to dive in, forego the if, what's, how,  why's and maybe's and just jump.

Having read a lot of motivational books, sometimes it comes across as such an easy task. Wake up, make a change, challenge yourself and BAM your life changes.

 But it isn's that easy!

It is hard sometimes to get up, go out and face the world. To deal with people in general. To get through a day without focusing on your shortcomings at least 100 times!  But somehow you manage. It is a challenge to let go of situations and thoughts that make you want to be in hiding. You can be the most bubbly person in the room, and still hide in a house.

If you have ever felt like that, or still do here are a few tips that I have used and I am still using on my journey to bloom!

  • Clear your mind
  • Focus on the present
  • Clearly envision your goals daily
  • Pray and manifest positive energy
  • Meditate
  • Push yourself- I mean really just jump- clear your mind and do it.
  • Surround yourself with like minded people (Find your tribe)
  • Music! Create playlists themed to each mood, or each attitude you want to adopt (Look out for my post next week on Theme days and the best playlists!)

Importantly, know that it is OK to fail. Every day is a new opportunity to start again and work daily on being the best version of yourself!
byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 09, 2017

The Blooming Process

Last night this quote fell into my lap and it screamed at me softly. So much so it went straight to my Instagram feed (I have a slight ...
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In April, I was blessed to receive an email from Poppy Apparel, inviting me to be a Brand Ambassador!

Now honestly, I pondered. 

Mainly as I have a tendency to procrastinate, but recently I took the jump, and what a great decision it has been.

www.poppyapparel.com  has something for every lady, from flirty and feminine, to sassy and downright daring.

Dresses, accessories, tees, handbags, shoes, sexy lingerie, swim suits, fitness wear and much more.

The prices are reasonable as well! I am talking about a shop that will definitely have you looking your best on a budget.

If you have time take a look. 

If you are anything like me, style isn't just about wearing what's trending, style is an art, a form of self-expression.






Follow me on Instagram, where I share my favourite pieces and include my exclusive discount code NLAKE868 for 10% off your order.

By the way- FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!










byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 08, 2017

Poppy Apparel|Natalake BA

In April, I was blessed to receive an email from Poppy Apparel, inviting me to be a Brand Ambassador! Now honestly, I pondered.  M...
Read More
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PCOS is one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders.

It is so common, that many times people are quick to dismiss any complaints of symptoms as " Oh everyone has that, it is not a big deal."

That's pretty frustrating for someone who suffers on a daily basis, and doesn't have access to treatment or information on how to deal with this syndrome.

So if you have received that treatment from people, don't worry. They haven't experienced it, so they don't know.

One of the things that has been hardest for me dealing with PCOS was the fact that it manifested everywhere! So basically my brain fog and hormones are hitting me for six, plus I have a fuzzy layer of hair that grows on my face and I have to wax A LOT. Also, I always had a horrible problem with my weight (Thanks, PCOS). I'm not talking about having an issue just because I was overweight. I had an issue where no matter what I did, I gained weight. I'm talking about drastically cutting caloric intake and doing two hours of cardio, and not losing a single pound.

Let's just say there were many nights of tears.

One morning on my way to work, I was so ill, vomiting and dizziness..... the works. I knew things had gotten worse, but did not realise how horrible it was until I weighed myself.

In the space of three weeks, I put on 20lbs.

So I took myself to the doctor, and he put me on this magic pill called Glucophage XR (Metformin) and I decided to try and make some changes:


  • Exercise 25 mins a day - (I did Shaun T's Focus T25)
  • Slowly cut out all refined sugars.
  • Slowly cut out refined carbohydrates.
  • Ensure each meal has ample greens.
  • Slowly cut out dairy 
  • Increase water intake
  • Decrease liquor intake.
  • Slowly cut out all processed foods.
  • Cut down on the amount of meat I eat.
  • Decrease caffeine intake.
  • Tell myself every morning "I can do this, I am strong, I am beautiful"
Now, admittedly the dairy was not hard to cut out because of the GI side effects of the medication. 

My love of cheese is forever heartbroken.

But as for everything else, it took discipline, prayer and energy.

And tea. Lots and lots of tea. I drink turmeric and ginger tea every day. ( That's the Brit in me- also its great for low grade inflammation, another pain in the butt thanks to PCOS).

I prayed and continue to pray and ask every day for my health to be recovered.

And for everyone out here battling PCOS. I know it's hard, but it's definitely manageable once you have the right treatment and surround yourself with positive energy. 

If you have any tips and tricks to deal with this pesky syndrome, let me know! Sharing is caring!

Here's to a healthier world!










byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 07, 2017

PCOS

Follow my blog with Bloglovin PCOS is one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders. It is so common, that many times people...
Read More
There is no doubt in my mind, my biggest source of support and motivation comes from my girlfriends.

I am blessed to have girlfriends from all walks of life, and in all different fields. Our personalities are all fabulous.

Essentially we are all ALPHAS.

We have come to know one another so well, we can stop one before she blurts out something inappropriate, know when someone is unhappy and even know if she got laid. 

And you know what I love, we don't have concern for each other's feelings when they are doing shit. 

There's  no free pass for not buckling down.  

Even if we don't speak in a week.  Basic convo normally includes catching up on everything from family to business to school.... there are no holds barred. 

Basically, it's love.


We motivate, inspire and achieve.

And that's what a true ALPHA is. A lady who is focused on her growth, success and the same for her loved ones and family. 

A lady who actually prays for someone who has harmed them.

A lady who is empathetic and accountable.

An Alpha has been hurt, dragged,  disrespected,  struggled,  hungry,  tearful,  broke,  abused.... The list goes on. 

But she is STRONG

Perhaps Alphas are born, perhaps they are bred. 

Whatever we are,  we are beautiful,  gentle,  powerfully soft and brilliant.

And EXTRA!






byUnknown
in , , , , , ,
September 06, 2017

Alphas

There is no doubt in my mind, my biggest source of support and motivation comes from my girlfriends. I am blessed to have girlfriends fro...
Read More

So one of my best girlfriends introduced me to Sarah Jakes Roberts, and I am pretty obsessed with her sermons.

Honestly, some of them go over my head, but most touch a chord in me that I know doesn't want to be exposed.

The most recent one I listened to was titled "Secrets".

And it rang true, ALL secrets come out eventually.

I remember growing up, my father always said that if someone had something to hide, they were doing something wrong. I vehemently disagreed.

Now as an adult, I don't.

The weak hold secrets to protect a self-proclaimed honour.

Why? Because it may actually expose the truth.

People don't like the truth.

The: 'It is better they don't know!" Is really- 'I do not want them to be exposed to my truth!'

It's time to stop.

Evaluate yourself.

Even when it hurts.

It is the only way to grow.










byUnknown
in
September 06, 2017

Secrets

So one of my best girlfriends introduced me to Sarah Jakes Roberts, and I am pretty obsessed with her sermons. Honestly, some of them go...
Read More
Everyone has them and it makes you who you are.

You ever realise when someone is too perfect your blood instantly starts to crawl, your alarm bells go off, your gut screams, intuition, whatever. 

OWN YOUR FLAWS

Benefits include:
  • Your integrity shines!
  • Less stress
  • Removal of false friends.
  • Removal of negativity
  • People know the REAL you 
    • For example "I'm not coming because I have to (insert excuse here)" Reality: "I'm not coming because I just want to stay home and watch Television." and they love you still. 
  • You may actually live longer for it!
  • You will automatically gravitate towards your tribe.
  • It actually makes you more responsible!

Then you have those who don't see they have any flaws at all.

You can't blame them but you also can't help people who don't want to help themselves.

So you send them good energy and cut those chords.

Life is too short for sh*t.


But, do people feel pressured to be perfect because of society, or because they aren't  comfortable with themselves? What do you think?


byUnknown
in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
September 01, 2017

Flaws.

Everyone has them and it makes you who you are. You ever realise when someone is too perfect your blood instantly starts to crawl, your ...
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