Thank you all! I needed the kind words because I was very frustrated with my hair in the past few weeks. I wouldn't have been reassured I was on the right path if I hadn't length checked. Next stop BSL. Looks like I can get MBL in a year or so
I used a semi permanent brand called Color Jamz that's sold at Sally's. I mixed Crimson Storm and Wild Red... I used a little more Crimson than Wild though. I mixed it with my Deep Conditioner, and wrapped it in a hot wet towel for an hour.