I love my NATURAL hair!

As of September 5, 2011 my hair is 100% natural! Some of you may not know what exactly that means so let me break it down... Natural meaning my hair is no longer chemically treated and my hair grows the way it was given to me by nature (curly, kinky and full). At the beginning of 2011 my hair was left damaged due to my overprocessing during relaxers and I knew I needed to get it back to a healthy state. Before that time I contemplated going natural but feared the idea of learning how to take care of "nappy" hair. I think it's funny looking back now.. Women often say "Oh I can't do the natural thing my hair is TOO nappy" but that's only in comparison to your bone straight hair so the two seem like polar opposites. I found myself thinking "My hair is TOO nappy to deal with" so I went with what I knew and got a sew-in weave. I ended up having weaves for about 5 months and somewhere in that time span I declared that I was transitioning to natural hair(This is the period of time since one's last relaxer and both hair textures remain) By September I could no longer see myself spending 45 minutes trying to detangle two different hair textures SO I snapped and slowly but surely started chopping my hair off lol. Thinking of it now it seems like an out of body experiece.. like the load that's slowing you down.. I wouldn't stop cutting until I had every piece of relaxed hair OFF MY HEAD.

December 5th marked my 3rd month post big chop (the cutting of all relaxed hair) and I am extremely happy with my decision to embrace my natural curl pattern. Learning how to take care of my hair and keep it healthy has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I would never discourage any from continuing to get relaxers BUT I will say that going natural is not as bad as you may think. It does take patience but with research and listening to your hair it makes the process a lot easier. With me being a visual learner Youtube has helped my journey tremendously. There are countless tutorials on things like shampooing your hair to styling your hair like your favorite celebrity.

I don't intend on making my blog all about natural hair BUT it is a part of my life so I will be talking about it here and there.

To everyone on their journey to healthy or natural hair.. stay encouraged! Surround yourself with great people and others who are working towards the same goal. I owe a lot of my strength to my friends Tot, Chantal (Nikki) and Michele. They have been the biggest help in my journey.. seeing their success let's me know it's possible to obtain my hair goals! Stay inspired and stay tuned!

A little of my journey:

 My hair in September 2010. It was so thin from being relaxed.. I was achieving length BUT my hair was never full and I couldn't stand that!

 This is me January 1, 2011. I had my last relaxer (at the time I didn't know it was) but I loved my short cut! Although I was soooo in love with the cut my hair grew extremely fast and I ended up relaxing it way too often.

 The sew-in that saved my life! My sister in the weave queen and hooks me up EVERYTIME she does my hair!

My first day wearing my twa to work. I was NERVOUS and feeling insecure. I wore it out for a few days and then the wigs returned.

Almost 3 months and I got my hair straightened. Loved it!!!!

This article REALLY inspired me.

Today I was wandering the crazy world of Youtube and stumbled upon one of my favorite natural hair vlogggers, Taren916. Now she always discusses some great topics and helps A LOT with my natural hair journey.. this time her video was a little different. She talked about the significance of the number 11 in her life. She explained how after her mothers passing she has always seen this number consecutively in random places and she did her research to find that it is a spiritual message. Here is the link to her video: http://www.youtube.com/user/taren916?feature=grec_index#p/u/7/1oTmSvhVqnM

During her explanation she said two words that stuck out to me: Rapid Manifestation. I had no idea why those words made such an impact on me BUT I immediately heard the voice of God telling me to reasearch them. I know saying "I heard the voice of God" may seem weird, but when you hear it... you know. Sometimes it comes in different ways.. LOUD and undeniable or softer but stern. We all may hear it differently.. I don't know but I know when I hear it.

ANYWHO... I researched those words in Google and found A LOT of websites dedicated to Rapid Manifestation. They described that the energy we give off attracts the same type of energy back to us. There was one website in particular that kept my attention. Here is the part that impacted me the most:
     "As you prepare yourself and guard yourself, and are frightened and worried about anything you do not want, by focusing your attention on it and adding emotion to your thought, you are attracting the very thing you are trying to guard against. The more you try to defend, resist and guard against it, the more you fear it and the more powerful the attraction becomes."

Here's the link to the full article: http://www.howtocreateyourfuture.com/Secrets/RapidManifestation.html

Please take a moment to read it. I pray that it makes us more aware of the things we bring into our lives based on our thoughts, attitudes and energy. It's funny because I'm now remembering that I was watching Oprah's Life Class and she was talking about the same thing! God always sends us messages and this is obviously something I need to learn. Until next time!

The Game of Love: Make Your Own Rules

As of the 25th of September my boyfriend and I have officially been together for 6 months! Now I am very quiet when it comes to my relationship for my own personal reasons but when there are moments to celebrate I am a little more open.
We spent the weekend together but on the 25th I wanted to do something EXTRA special... so special that I didn't realize I was stressing myself out behind the idea of doing something SO over the top. Let's just say I went through the "I have nothing to wear", "I feel ugly", "Am I fun enough?" and "I feel fat" all while trying to get dressed to go out. Not to mention I cried because I had overwhelmed myself and was ready to not go anywhere. A few minutes after he calmed me down and I stopped being a typical female I laughed at myself for being so silly. There are many times where we have to do things EXTRA BIG because "that's what you're supposed to do". What I'm learning in life and in my relationship is that we are all given the right to make our own decisions and make our own rules. Who said that we HAD to do something so out of the ordinary to celebrate the fact that we've made it to 6 months? Who set the standards and guidelines to what makes a relationship successful? That day it was made clear to me that no matter what we did I was going to be happy because I was with HIM. I didn't need a fancy restaurant or a hot air balloon ride to convince me that we have something special. In the end we went to the Cheescake Factory and enjoyed each others company, laughed and stuffed our faces. When it comes to love rules will be broken, made and adjusted. There aren't any voices that should matter other than the two individuals involved. Don't be afraid to go against the grain... you'll be so much happier in the end ;)

Until next time!
Desarée

Checking in...

Hello all!

It has been a while since I've last blogged. not because I've forgotten or because I've grown bored. What I'm learning is that I was and still am going through the very experiences that I blog about. I don't write from a 'forced' place... the blog becomes boring or uninspiring. I have to be truthful and only speak of what I know. I have been in many situations over these past few months where I have been discouraged, encouraged, enlightened, tested and restored. There are many things I am learning I cannot control, although I am a bit of a control freak. I am also learning more about myself as I approach my 24th birthday next Tuesday (the 16th). God is good... and the moment I have the *spark* I love so much... I will be writing. I feel it coming though so stay tuned!

For those who need that extra push to continue...

My mom put this song on my slideshow for my college graduation party. Never did I realize the irony in this song as I did today. This song truly touched me. The lyrics are absolutely true and inspirational. To any who has ever had a dream and thought of quitting or became discouraged... this is for you. For those of you who have had an idea or thoughts that were out of the ordinary and no one seemed to understand... this is for you.

Stay inspired. Stay encouraged.

Missing Michael Jackson 6-25-2011

They say you never miss a good thing til it's gone. I truly believe that the day Michael Jackson left this earth many people realized what a gift we had. For years this man entertained, serenaded and moon walked for  every audience possible. There are very few if any who can deny this talent this man possessed. not to mention his caring and joyful spirit. In spite of the media attacking him in his last years, I honestly believe he knew how he touched the WORLD. He will be forever missed. I will never forget the many family gatherings where we would watch a concert of his or turn an album on. The amount of joy and laughter that transpired is indescribable. if you never took the chance before to recognize what a gift this man was. His music touches many generations and will continue to do so forever more.

I love My Alma Mater. Cheyney University.

Often people say you were the worst experience but like Drake, you the best I ever had. I owe you so much recognition for who I am. Through the good and the bad you held me down and built me up.

Very few could ever understand what it's like to encounter such greatness; history deeper than the first man's grave. If I had to choose between you and any other memory you would be the one I would save. See people don't understand, the memories run deep in me. Nights in front of Tubman watching different people cross... as they spit information about organization that they loved to the depths of their soul. Professors like Dr. Z and Dr. Holmes who enlightened me on the history of black people in ways I could never imagine. A love of my people began to grow in indescribable ways. That very seed would have never been planted had I gone to a predominately white university like I first planned.

Yes things got rough and boy did I get tired of seeing my beloved school on the news but none of those instances had the power to wipe away the love I felt. My home away from home with friends who instantly became family will never cease. Nights in the snack bar or Ms. Martha yelling at everyone who didn't have their id, those moments will forever be mine. Dr. Johnson saying "I just don't get it" or the extra hard assignments that seemed so easy at first that Dr. Barnes would give us, I would never replace.

The broken elevators in various buildings were known to drive anyone crazy. One day I had an epiphany and climbing the flights no longer mattered. Not because I expected it but because it became a life learned lesson. On the road to success the elevator is always broken... you must take the stairs to the top. There is no easy way up.

Cheyney, for all the people who talk bad about you, I will shout to the high heavens how they're all wrong. Their experience is not mine. Circumstances may not have always been ideal but I can make it anywhere now that I've completed my journey there. I will forever be Cheyney alum and I will NEVER be ashamed to say that. To all my Cheyney family, never forget the good the first HBCU has brought into your life. Continue to support and encourage the others who are brave enough to conquer such a great yet worthwhile challenge.

Cheyney Cheerleaders

AKA DI FA06

Met Jesse Jackson at the Fattah Conference

Met Jeff Johnson at a program held at Cheyney

Graduation day... I was HYPE lol

Weight: Strive For the Size You.

After reading a few blogs I have been inspired to write again! I have been wanting to write about the impact of the ideas behind "The Prefect Weight" and how it is affecting our world. At first I was concerned that people wouldn't receive my message considering I'm skinny but I have a story to tell too so I know this will be good!

Everyday we are constantly fed commercials, ads, and images of weight loss products, diets and "success" stories. When watching Kim Kardashian's Trim Spa commercial I instantly thought "Wow that's pretty cool! Kim K uses that stuff, regular people can look like her.. #dope" After that commercial AND the several others that flooded my television screen I began to become sick. We have become people who strive for perfection driven by the numbers on a scale instead of gauging how we feel internally.

I have never been an advocate for size, I am more for health and feeling. If you feel great and are healthy then those are the things that matter most. I fell victim to the "ideal weight" when it comes to the model industry. Grant it I am skinny in the everyday world but in the model world I have been asked to lose 5-10 or more pounds. At my height and age I have never felt better but I am aware that I have become more curvy over the years. After hearing I needed to lose the curves where possible and drop a few pounds I went into instant panic mode. I went to the gym almost every day, watched what I ate AND tried to convince myself I wasn't hungry at times. Now I wasn't anorexic but I became overly concerned with my body image. The more I worked out the more I noticed the scale was raising instead of decreasing like I was supposed to. My body type did not allow for me to work out at that pace without gaining muscle, which everyone knows weighs more than fat. I knew something had to change...

Soon I began watching my portions, working out 3 times a week and stopped worrying about my weight # and focused on my inches lost AND most importantly, how I felt. Soon I went from a size 5 to a 2.. my weight is about the same but my definition in muscle and self confidence have increased tremendously. I'm not meant to be 120 pounds at the age of 23 BUT I can look my best and fit into a size I never thought I'd see again. I have hips and am rather busty but that is the way God intended me to be, if not I would've turned out differently. I learned to embrace who I am inside and out. My weight doesn't take away from my talent as a model or define who I am as an individual.

When it comes to everyone else I would never encourage you to strive for a size 2 but I will encourage to strive for the size YOU. Not the size where we THINK we'd feel good at but the size we physically feel empowered. Mo'Nique is a perfect example for me. She has always been a full figured woman however, her weight loss goal wasn't to be the skinniest girl on the block but to feel good about Mo'Nique. Now homegirl is wearing dresses that look GREAT on her figure, her hair is different and most of all you can SEE she feels amazing.

I encourage everyone who has been struggling with or questions their body to seek the best you. Working out feels like an accomplishment every time I finish because I know it was hard but I kept fighting and the results are amazing. Research healthy eating habits (NOT diets) and allow your body to be what it's supposed to be not what you want it to be. Love yourself wholeheartedly. Our outside appearance does not affect who we are internally but it should reflect it. If you feel good about yourself inwardly, express it outwardly. Find things that compliment your body and never settle for the "I gained weight and I hate my body." You must dress the body you have now as you strive for your goal. I'm going onto another topic lol...

Most importantly... Love yourself.

Desarée

Open Diary: Money Issues

Money sucks. It's nice to have it but when you don't it seems to run your life. Your worries of tomorrow hinder your joys of today when you consume yourself with the amount of bills, payments, or any other way you need to spend. Today the money has got a hold on me. Finances aren't always the best but I'm beginning to wonder when enough is enough. I've saved up more than enough to survive for 2-3 months with no job yet I'm still worried about acquiring more money. Now don't credit this to me being money hungry, a gold digger, or any other rendition you can think of, I'm just "trynna make it".
 It is easy to become captivated by the whirlwind of 'you must constantly acquire money' attitude. We live in a world where we have to borrow (credit cards, loans) to prove you are worthy of having necessities (house, car, etc.) Please explain this to me. I have to send myself into debt, pay YOU back with interest all to prove I can make on time payments. I'm not sure if I will ever understand.

Everyday we are faced with decisions. One day it can be a new 47 inch tv vs. detailing a car and the next moment it can be eat vs. gas in the car. Where is the life jacket when you need it? Don't get me wrong, I'm not struggling but I still wonder how I can keep myself in the place I am now. I would like to be comfortable in my finances (pshh who wouldn't?) Every once in a while I lose sight of what's really important and it definitely isn't money. Money is helpful but it isn't the key to everything... the richest man can be the loneliest one. Moments like this require faith.. a human quality that is often tested. I'm not sad though.. just over analytical and cautious because I'm new to this "grown up" thing lol. I'm responsible but I still worry about spending irresponsibly.

For many, money is not just the most important thing, but the only important thing. I find that a sad way to lead life. Here are some money quotes that will lend you some perspective on money. -Robert Frost

When it all boils down I know I will be fine. God will always provide no matter what! Whether I'm a millionaire or have $10 I will be provided everything I need. Keep your heads up and remember you're not alone.

The Inspiration is You.

Today I woke up. The sun was shining through my window, I was excited because I had a semi-good nights rest and I was still happy from my sister visiting the night before. As usual I thanked God for waking me up, checked my phone, and looked at my timeline on Twitter. I then saw an amazing tweet from Tyrese that read: "Why follow inspirational people, read words, tweets and NOT move on them.. ?? Gods inspiration comes in ALL FORMS.. Use it people!! Go!!"

Immediately I thought of a quote I had just posted in my bathroom to stay inspired:
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Gandhi

These two thoughts lead me to tweeting this:
You can spend your life RTing inspiration for others or you can BE the inspiration they RT about! #stayinspired - @desareefranchon

As I grow older I am learning the only limitations and boundaries that exist are the ones that we allow ourselves to have. We speak everyday about the very things that we want and wish to have. Today ask yourself "What have I done to get to where I want to be?"

In awe we watch MTV Cribs, E True Hollywood Story and every other show that allows us into celebrities lives as they display the individuals journey to stardom. What we forget to focus on is the beginning of each persons life. They all had to start somewhere, whether it was from the bottom or middle they kept working until the made it to the top. We never see the rough journey, the days where we eat Ramen noodles to stay alive. The days where actors and actresses were living out of their cars in the middle of a major city just to attend castings. The sacrifices that were made are rarely known but they do exist. We need to recognize that they were once in the same shoes, fighting for what they wanted, taking a small job in hopes that it will open another door for the bigger picture.

Often we become weary in the struggle. Though times seem rough don't give up! Just like the people we watch, read about, and emulate.. they never gave up. We never realize how close we are to the finish line during the race. We have become accustomed to traveling the path that has an end in sight not realizing the trip gave us no growth. There were no obstacles, no challenges, no trials to overcome. Don't be afraid of the fight.. it's what builds character. Life is full of lessons and those require expansion, whether it'd be the hard or easy way. If you have a dream.. never stop and never EVER quit. God has placed that dream in your heart for a reason and he wouldn't give to you without the tools to work it. Always believe in yourself and do not walk in fear. #stayinspired

Signed,

Desaree Franchon

Tyra Banks: The epitome of FIERCE

I remember being young and looking in magazines. Models always caught my eye but Tyra Banks stole my attention in a moments notice. I remember the Got Milk? ad... Victoria's Secret covers.... Her as Jackie on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, EVERYTHING. I thought she was SO beautiful and wanted to be just like her! She is truly one of my biggest inspirations for becoming a model. Not only has she conquered modeling she has become an actress, producer, singer.. and the list continues. I pictured myself exactly where she was... and I will be!

<----- my favorite

Forgiveness.

Forgiveness:
–noun


1. act of forgiving; state of being forgiven.


2. disposition or willingness to forgive.

Forgiveness... one act I struggle with. One act that seems like it takes an enormous amount of energy but once done releases an incredible load most of us do not recognize we are bearing.
 
This past month I have reconciled with two people I haven't spoken to in YEARS. We were all inseperable but one day things just turned sour. There have been several times where we have seen each other over the years and did not speak or act as if we knew one another. I carried ill feelings towards them for a long time, not knowing the root of the problem just not liking them because they did not like me. One day I stopped myself and said this can no longer continue. I was haboring feelings that weren't hurting anyone but me. Turning my face up at the mention of a name, memory of them, or thought of them. How healthy was this? They didn't know I was doing these things. They could not hear the smart remarks I made.

"When you hold resentment toward another, you are bound to that person or condition by an emotional link that is stronger than steel. Forgiveness is the only way to dissolve that link and get free.” -Catherine Ponder

I ran into each of them at seperate times like it was planned. The moment I saw them.. all the past history and words that were said no longer mattered. I had grown over the years and matured. We may not be close again like we once were but to let everything go and officially move on felt freeing. I still love them as people and thank God for them. I will forever carry the lessons I learned from our situation.

Forgiving someone is not a form of weakness. The weak person holds on to those feelings and demolishes their own life at the cost of their problems. If something happens to a person you haven't forgiven ask yourself if you could live knowing that you had the chance to forgive them. All those mean words said to the person were the last memories they have of you.

“To forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, you will receive untold peace and happiness.” -Robert Muller

If you haven't forgiven someone choose today to be the day to do so.

Signed,

Desarée Franchon

Lesson #5,000,001: Everyone's NOT #teamyou

From birth we learn lessons daily. How to tie our shoes, how to button our pants, how to talk to people and the list continues. As of late I have been constantly reminded of one very important lesson I learned a long time ago: Everyone's not on your team.

I've never been the type to expect every person on earth to be #teamDesaree BUT when it comes to the people I hold close to me, I always think they will support me the same way I would them. As usual I am smacked in the face with reality when I discover that an individual does not believe in me. This idea may be juvenile and I may be naive but I can 't help it. If I have a friend and they're making positive decisions or pursuing their dream I am in cheerleader mode for them. Many that surround me always feed me words of encouragement and I appreciate EVERY bit of it wholeheartedly, it's just a tough pill to swallow when people you care about join the list of non-supporters or worse, haters.

I'm learning that your biggest cheerleader should be yourself. On days when there is no one around to pump us up or give us that push we may need is the time when self-motivation is most important. If our drive is reliant on the encouragement of others, we will fail. There is an extra piece of the puzzle that is most important in each of our lives and that is the person living it a.k.a. YOU. I always here my mom saying "Man will always fail you. We're built that way. The disciples betrayed Jesus. But God will never fail us, always count on him to give you the strength you need." I think the other lesson I am supposed to learn is we already have the strength within us. It doesn't matter if others support you when YOU support you. Ha! The list of lessons keep growing!

#stayinspired
Desaree Franchon

A Quote to stay inspired...

Because your own strength is unequal to the task, do not assume that it is beyond the powers of man; but if anything is within the powers and province of man, believe that it is within your own compass also.
~ Marcus Aurelius Antoninus

Abortion: Is it affecting us more than we know?

I'm not here to state my opinion on abortion. I believe everyone has the right to choose, we only have to answer to God at the end of the day. How I feel does not impact or affect any ones life BUT there is something that I saw that caught me off guard. You may disagree with my thoughts, and that's fine but that's just what they are.. MY thoughts. I will share the image and continue from there....

Now, this billboard was in New York City for all to view. I saw this image today on facebook after a friend of mine posted it. Needless to say I had mixed emotions. At first I read it... blinked twice.. and thought "ok.. what's the big deal? It's TRUE." A few moments passed and then it hit me. All I could murmur is "Wow."

I soon realized that the saying on the billboard is deeper than the statistic of African American women having countless abortions. This billboard made it clear, this is what people think of us. Now when I say people I don't mean the every single person on this earth but more of the picture or stereotype that is perpetuated in this world about African Americans. I  had multiple phrases stemming from this billboard pop into my head: "hyper sexual", "irresponsible", "murderers", etc. I imagined myself walking down the street seeing this in the middle of the busiest city in the country and having these words paint a picture of my people and myself to everyone who encounters it. I am not apart of the statistic, but they do not know that. All they can see is African Americans are killing their unborn children.... and that's it.

I read comments and gathered these thoughts. Although the saying is correct, because the statistics of African American children being aborted is at an all time high, there were other approaches that could have been taken. Information on alternate choices could have been displayed (adoption, pregnancy prevention info, etc.) They could have posted the statistic and found a positive way to encourage women to recognize the severity and strive to decrease the number.

I soon began to wonder... why was this message so important to put out? Does anyone post billboards saying the leading cause of death for any other race or ethnicity? Does anyone report the amount of Caucasian children dying in suburban areas from drug use? Does anyone report the amount of asian, latino, or middle eastern children killing their parents on billboards? No.

I've learned that we live in a country that constantly feeds these negative images of our people. How does one get past that? How do I show them by not saying a word that I am not who they see on the news, on movies or in a demeaning music video? I've never been shot at, nor do I possess any "baby daddies", nor have I been in jail, and my father and mother are still married. Am I better than anyone who has, does, or will do these things? No. But those stereotypes are not my reality. When do we begin to break the cycle? When will we as a people begin to eliminate these negative ideas? When we we get back the the very things our ancestors faught and died for? When will we as a unit want more for ourselves?? When will we begin to fight again?

There are many African-Americans who have contributed GREAT things to this world and many continue to do so today. We have got to continue on that path. There are no perfect people but we can strive for our best. We are much better than we are given credit for. We are a people that have the same blood running through them that was once of kings and queens. I guess this was a great way to end Black History Month. We have to wake up people. All are welcome to comment.

For those who feel like they want to quit:

Don't You Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit-

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a fellow turns about

When he might have won had he stuck it out.

Don't give up though the pace seems slow -

You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than

It seems to a faint and faltering man;

Often the struggler has given up

Whe he might have captured the victor's cup;

And he learned too late when the night came down,

How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

The silver tint in the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are,

It might be near when it seems afar;

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -

It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

Open Diary Entry: One of Those Days, I am Human

I've been thinking about writing a blog that was true to me and how I'm feeling, no holding back, no layers. I've learned that most people can identify with how you're feeling or what your going through. There are many times when we feel alone but don't recognize there are millions of people who have felt the same way you do. So here is me giving of myself... writing down my very feelings and praying that this can help someone else get through the same thing.

Lately I've been frustrated.
Frustrated with the pace of life, frustrated with watching other models, actors, and people in the entertainment industry do the very things I've been dreaming of since I could dream. I'm not jealous, I've very happy for them all... I just wish my life would unfold already. At night I sit and wonder what I could be doing differently, what can I do to gain exposure, who can I talk to to get a foot in the door. Every day I strive for my dream, even while I'm at work selling phones... I'm thinking about traveling the world, walking down runways and being in major films.

I hurt at times. I worry that I'm not good enough. I wonder if this is all something I have going on in my head that will never be reality. Some days I know in my heart of hearts that THIS is right, others I wonder how it could ever be. Yesterday I walked into Victoria's Secret and almost shed a tear as I looked at the posters of models in the very place I imagined myself. You see I'M HUNGRY. I've never wanted anything so much in my life. One day someone said to me "I've seen your modeling pictures. Are you serious about this or is this for show?" I wanted to scream... I wanted to yell all types of obscenities and ask them where the hell they've been. I don't do this for show, I could care less about the public showcase. THIS is about the feeling I get EVERY TIME I do what I love. The rush of adrenaline, the moment before I walk out and want to run the opposite direction and think "what have I gotten myself into?". The moment where I have to pee so bad because my nerves are a wreck. Then the last moment when I say " F@!k this, I have what it takes... now shut this thing DOWN " and kill it!

See... I'm human, I wonder if I'm good enough even when I know I am. I'm tired of waiting for the world to recognize my gifts, my talents, and what I possess. But I won't quit. I won't give up. I know this thing is deeper than me. I know that one day it will all happen. It's just a waiting game. If you ever feel like I do/did just remember... all storms come to an end to release the sunshine. Stay inspired and remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Signed,
Desarée Franchon

Happy Black History Month!: Vogue Italia's Black Allure

Black History Month began as "Negro History Week," which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month-long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

This month Vogue Italia did a spread with ALL black models. *gasps* The spread is exceptional!! Ajak Deng, Chanel Iman, Arlenis Sosa Pena, Jourdan Dunn, Melodie Monrose, Lais Ribeiro, Rose Cordero, Mia Aminata Niaria, Sessilee Lopez, Joan Smalls and Georgie Baddiel all make a statement "We are black models, and we're here to stay!" There is no question to these ladies talent. Take a look....

Recommended Book: Steve Harvey's Straight Talk, No Chaser

Hello all! Just wanted to share a book that I think is a MUST HAVE. Steve Harvey's Straight Talk, No Chaser. This is his second gift to the female population. He gives insight and answers to things we have all expressed that we want to know. He explains the differences between men and women in depth.

This one was a little harder for me to read than his first book Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man. The second book hit me in some soft spots and I had to take time off from reading because it was SO real lol. I needed it though. There are so many things I misinterpret as a woman when a man is talking to me. Pick it up ladies! If you haven't picked up the first book.. do that too!

To Weave or Not to Weave, THAT is the Question!

A few days ago I was listening to the Steve Harvey Morning Show. As usual, they sparked conversation about a topic relevant to their listeners but this time they took it to another level. They opened the phone lines to men voicing whether they like women who wear weave (extensions) or not. I didn't have the opportunity to hear most of the calls but I did hear one.

The man was discussing how he despised weave. He said that he enjoys a woman that will love her real hair and there is no need for extensions. By no means would he date a woman who decided to add hair to her what God has already given her. As I listened I couldn't help but think about how men like this hinder women from being their true self. As women we feel we need to be attractive for our men. If he doesn't like something, if not unreasonable, we will try to mock what our man likes. I myself have been guilty of this. At one time I had a boyfriend who HATED weave and I stopped wearing it. Now it didn't bother me at first because my hair was long enough to feel comfortable but after a while I felt stifled. This conversation was all too real for me. I started to grow angry and I was two seconds from turning until Steve Harvey gave his response...

He explained that he is a man who loves women and as long as the woman he is with looks her best he has NO problem. Weave or no weave, if the woman looks beautiful than so be it. He continued to say that extensions may even enhance a womans look. Some women have that extra glow about them when their hair is flowing Now as long as the weave was in tact (not shedding, well put together, no tracks exposed, etc.)  then he was completely fine with it. I loved this the best... "I don't care what the woman got on her head. She can have a rat on her head but if she looks good with that RAT on her head, damnit wear the rat." LOL.

Be who you are. If one day you feel like wearing 18 inch extensions and the next you want to be bald then I say DO IT! It's your hair!! If the man you're with can't get with it, trust me there are many more who will not care AND volunteer to help you pay to get it done. Ladies there is nothing more beautiful than a woman more comfortable in her skin so if it's 22 inch hair, a short cut, natural, or braids that make you feel you best DO IT!!!

Oh yea... if you haven't gone to get his book "Straight Talk No Chaser"... I suggest you do so ladies! Steve Harvey gives some great insight into the male perspective and perception.

Until next time!
Desarée Franchon

Took this today: Long hair (weave)

Short hair

Either way you choose.. LOVE YOURSELF.



Coo-coo for Coco Rocha

Had to express my love for Coco Rocha. She's absolutely positively AMAZING! This girls angles are ridiculous! She is very pretty but there is something that's different about her on the inside that makes her stand out. If you haven't looked at her work... wake up!

Behind the Scenes of My Commercial: "This is Not My Job"

Hello again! Just wanted to update you guys!

Yesterday I filmed MY commercial with the magnificent Cedric Perry. We have been friends since my freshman year of college and we are both in pursuit of major things. When he pitched the idea to me I was nervous beyond belief. I've never done anything like this BUT I'm always up for a challenge so I agreed to do it! I've been blessed to have amazing friends so when I asked Tatiana and Ky Asia to help out they didn't hesitate to say yes.

The day was long but it was well worth it! The moment Ced said "5,4,3..." it all became clear to me that THIS is what I was made for! I knew I said I wanted things to happen.. but its different being in the moment when it IS happening. There is nothing that we can't accomplish, it takes time, effort, and energy but the rewards all well worth it! I'm excited to show the world that this stopped being talk for me the moment I spoke about wanting to model and act. The journey has only begun. There is more work to be done but I've got my game face on! Stay tuned guys.

Here is the sneak peek video:

Photo Shoot with Anthony Winters

Hey all! Just wanted to share my newest image from my last photo shoot! I shot with the magnificent Anthony Winters! I was terrified because it was the first shoot that I've ever had with a photographer in New York. My sister and cousin came along to help me out. This was my first trip to Brooklyn and it was about 12 degrees outside. After reaching the location and defrosting I had to turn on fierce. Anthony was amazing! Easy to work with, knows what he's looking for and the best part... he's my phrat brother (ha!). My hair was done by Jason Martinez and makeup by Hencys De La Rosa. I enjoyed the whole experience and can't wait to do it again!

Desarée Franchon

On the train to NY!! (my sister's gonna kill me for this one)

Cherelle stops to take pics in 12 degree weather.

The finished product!!!

Relationships: Find someone complimentary to you.

A male friend of mine frequently discusses his life as a bachelor (it is eventful to say the least). He is dating a few women trying to figure out what he wants out of a woman, how they would fit in his life, and if he wants to be in a relationship. Through many of the stories he has given me much insight as to how men think and the difference between what women think men are trying to say and what they are REALLY saying.

From our discussions I have come to have my favorite and least favorite of his 'lady friends'. There was one specifically who I deemed as my least favorite. I had drawn the conclusion that she was not fit for him because she consistently asked him for money, would frequently use his car, and seemed to not offer anything other than intimacy. Of course I made it a point to voice these feelings to him (hey how could I resist?) and expressed that any woman that was self-respecting, self-sufficient and to an extent, self-reliant would not ask for what she does. For a while he continued to keep her around but expressed he was unhappy because she has his car and didn't pick him up on time or another reason. One day during our discussion I was beginning to tell him I don't understand why he still deals with her and then.... I had an epiphany.

Although I saw her as unfit, he didn't. Not because he was keeping her around for intimacy but she was providing all the things he felt HE needed as a man. He enjoys being able to provide, hence giving her money and letting her borrow his car. When he needed food she didn't mind cooking and if he needed groceries she would shop for the both of them when she received her source of income.

See, every man doesn't need the same thing from a woman. Some may need a woman who cooks, some men may prefer to cook. Some men require that they are the only provider for the household, while others are turned off if a woman doesn't have a career. What I failed to realize was that it's not about a man and woman possessing the 'right' characteristics it's about them completing one another. Where one lacks, the other should make up for and vice versa. Dedicate today to finding out what you bring to the table and what kind of person would best fit what you want and need out of life today, tomorrow, and years from now. It may not be the same as your friends but it's for YOU, the most important party in your life.

Signed,
Desarée Franchon

My Intereview for: OhYouFancy.net

Hey guys!! Tonight I had an amazing interview with Jenell McMillon for her blog ohyoufancy.net. Jenell is a friend of my cousin and she has dedicated her blog to pure fashion. She interviews people in the industry, post updates in the fashion world and gives great advice on the latest trends. She is an upandcoming force to be reconed with so watch out!

You can check out my interview for ohyoufancy.net by clicking the link to the site below! I give my insight thus far on the modeling industry and my experiences. This is only the beginning people so take a look!http://ohyoufancy.net/desaree-rutledge/

On the journey to the top,
Desarée Franchon

Mary Tyler Moore. Classic Beauty

When I was around the age of 7 I LOVED watching The Mary Tyler Moore Show on Nick @ Night. She was effortlessly beautiful to me. A woman who had a good head on her shoulders and exhibited inner beauty along with her physical beauty.. I knew that;s how I wanted to be! Of course I was a fan of the clothing in the 70's