PunchDrunkLife

Good riddance to bad rubbish!

2010-03-10T08:20:00.000-08:00

For the month of March, I'm taking out the trash. Not quite literally. But figuratively. I'm saying goodbye to some people who just don't belong or fit anymore. There are some friends & acquaintances who just drain me of all my energy.

Negativity,

constant complaining,

whining,

being stagnant,

unproductive.

None of these are qualities I like. I won't accept them from myself, so I definitely won't accept them from others. Our friendship should not make my shoulders slump. I should not have to mentally prepare for the spirit bashing that occurs when I'm in the presence of such people. It's absolutely unnecessary.

Granted, you are allowed to have bad days. But if everyday by 10am turns into a bad day, a bad week, a bad month, a bad month... maybe you need more than I can offer you. Help, maybe? You don't pay me to lie on my couch.

So, in March, I'm taking out the trash. If you happen to fall into this batch, it's personal. But don't be mad. There's someone just as miserable as you are waiting to share in life's troubles with you.

You Don't Obsess Over Men

2010-02-28T16:57:00.000-08:00

While g-chatting with a friend she said to me, "I like talking with you because you don't obsess over men." She went on to tell me how other girl friends of hers rant about men. At that very moment I thought, am I abnormal? But that thought quickly dissolved.

No. Freaking. Way.

I don't obsess over men because I don't see the reason to. I'm almost positive they don't obsess over women. At least not to the extremes women go. A woman will dedicate an entire conversation with multiple friends about the deeper meaning behind some guy's text message. When ultimately, he wasn't being cryptic at all. He meant exactly what he said.

I don't obsess over men because I can't. Yes, you read that right. I can't. Right now, I just dammit cannot. I'd rather not. I will not. Therefore, I can't. (I can make up reasons if I want to:)

I don't obsess over men because I'm focused. Sometimes you gotta sit out a game or two and get right for the playoffs. That's what I'm doing. Riding the pine. You can get some good information on the bench sometimes.

So, it is with great pride, that I Don't Obsess Over Men. :-)

One is the Magic Number

2010-02-21T16:25:00.000-08:00

So many times I define my pride
Through somebody else's eyes (La da da, la da)
Then I looked inside and found my own stride,
I found the lasting love for me
If I'm searching for my spirituality
Passionately I must begin with me

-Jill Scott; One is the Magic Number

The moment I've been waiting for is just 2 short months away. And I couldn't be happier! >insert the biggest, widest grin ever here< I feel like my "freedom" is around the corner. I sign my new lease. Literally & figuratively. I will be living alone. Yes, A-L-O-N-E. Sans roommate. Sans boyfriend. Just me and my soon-to-be purchased pup.

I spent over a year co-habitating with my then boyfriend and boy! In the words of Biggie Smalls, "I've got a story to tell." I learned lessons that no one ever told me I'd learn. I'm sure you think most of them are about him, you're wrong. Many of the lessons I learned are about me. What I just simply cannot even tolerate. iCant. iWont. I can honestly say my preferences as a woman have shifted. But the best thing of all is, I remain confident and steadfast in my own decision making. I always made decisions that, should the sh*t hit the fan, I'd be able to live with them. Alone. Now many people call that selfish (my ex sure did). I call it insurance. And look at that, I needed to cash in my policy.

So... I embark on a journey. Alone. And I couldn't be happier or more excited about what's waiting for me! One really is my magic number!

Heart Smart

2010-02-19T07:19:00.000-08:00

27 years on the planet means I've learned lots of lessons. I've been fortunate enough to have the good sense not to have to learn many of them the hard way. *cue my mama "A hard head makes a soft @ss"*

While I'm smart about most things in life, some of my hardest lessons have all involved matters of the heart. I love easily, put mad effort into the relationship, then when it's over, I'm emotionally drained. Empty. I've only ever had two serious relationships and at the end of both I felt the same way. Over it. Almost immediately. These thoughts kinda rained down on me yesterday when I said to a friend during a daily g-chat session that it took me almost a year after my first real boyfriend broke my heart to even cry. A friggin' year! It has to be the Centaur in me. I spent almost an entire year trying to figure out why things went wrong, why things ended the way they did. Then when it hit that I had no answers, there was no science to it, all I could do was cry. Reminds me of one of my favorite lines from one of my favorite movies:

"Physics...this sh*t ain't" - Love Jones

Truuuuuuth! My "youthful wisdom" has led me to this epiphany... I'm gonna focus on me. (Yeah, I know, gimme a late pass!) While I love love, I also love Shakeia. I'm not shunning the idea of dating, I'm saying I won't put so much stock in it. I won't put so much of ME in it. I'm my most valuable asset, I can't afford to lose me.

So there you have it, I'll be "heart smart."

I'll still love. I'll still share. I'll still care. I'll take my sweet time.

A Message from Cupid Valentino...

2010-02-14T09:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Love someone today. Don't limit the love to 2/14, Love everyday.

Revenge of the Negro

2010-02-07T08:58:00.000-08:00

It's 2010. Or so I thought. Yet somehow, the word "negro" has reared its head again. How ugly that head is, is up for interpretation.

I was alarmed a few weeks ago when I found out that Negro is an option on the 2010 U.S. Census form. This form was approved by the U.S. Census Bureau and Congress more than a year ago. I've read in multiple articles, including this one, that Negro will re-appear on this year's census because in 2000, many older Blacks wrote it in. So this year, Blacks can identify as "Black," "Negro," and "African American."

Three choices? It's without question that I will be checking Black. Why? Because I am. End of story. I really question the reasoning behind this move. I cannot imagine that sooo many older Blacks identified with being Negro that it needed to be an option. I could be wrong. **shrugs**

I've heard lots of angry reactions from friends and family. I hate to say this but, reactions from non-Blacks simply don't matter to me. So when a co-worker was trying to give me her opinion, I just didn't listen. She's unaffected by Negro. She had no family participate in the Civil Rights Movement. Her grandmother wasn't born in the Mississippi Delta with no doctors & nurses. She's never suffered any kind of racial discrimination. Her opinion is, for me, invalid.

It's too late to change the Census form. But it's not too late to let them know how we feel.

Being the Guy's Girl

2010-02-04T09:44:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, I've been "that girl." You know the girl. Hell, you probably hated her or thought she was sleeping with your man. What girl am I talking about? No, not THAT girl. The other one. The one who is just friends with guys. The one who the guys see as just "one of us" but the girls see as some sort of threat.

Wait. Hold up. Let me take a second to "pause for the cause" here to tell you, I'm not the girl who says she doesn't get along with other women. Because I do. I actually have some really great girl friends. (Truth is, I don't want your man.)

Ok, I digress. Anyway, I watch sports. Football & basketball mostly. But if it's on, I'll probably watch it. That's just me. And I don't just watch the sports I love, I know stuff. That's part of the reason my homies dig me. Poser, no sir. (c) Jay-Z I'm also a pretty dope chick to hang around if you really must know. ;-) I've maintained friendships with many of my guy friends for 10 years or more.

You're wondering why I said all of that? Here's why? As my friend Babyjam put it, I'm paraphrasing here, we've been put up on game from our friendships with men. That got me to thinking - I've learned a lot just from watching my homies be jerks (or excellent boyfriends) to different women through the years. It has given me an advantage. Or so I like to think. But I'm starting to wonder, is this "advantage" really a disadvantage? Have I been privy to so much of their world that it's affecting me?

Being the guy's girl, I know when a guy is being ridiculous or trying to "run game" and like my cousin says, "I ain't goin'!" I subconsciously remember something I discussed, or one of my homies' experiences and I'm ready to act. I dismiss the bullsh*t without a second thought. I never keep it a secret that I have men as friends. Never. So you'd think guys would stop a for a second and think, "Wait. That's not going to work with her." But alas, they don't. And the seemingly neverending cycle of stupid male behavior continues.

Actually, while writing this I changed my mind. Having these guys is not a disadvantage. I'm not giving up my friends. No way. No how. Not gonna happen. (Even though it was never an option.) The things I learn from them are so vital. I find myself shaking my head at the things the women they date allow them to get away with, but hey, those are lessons learned for me. I know what to do, and what not to do. Male friends also make great sounding boards when dealing with relationship issues. I mean, who better to ask about a man, than another man, right?!

Maybe being the guy's girl isn't so bad after all. :)

Dreams- Part Deux

2010-01-16T23:21:00.000-08:00

Coming closer.

Reaching out.

Almost.

Arms outstretched.

Mind open.

Possibilities.

Happy.

Love.

Life.

Happy Lovely life.

*sigh*

My buddy :)

2010-01-08T21:15:00.000-08:00

What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies. - Aristotle

Thanks, Tivi!

The Un-Dating Game

2010-01-04T03:10:00.001-08:00

I know, I know. It makes no sense, right? Well, here's what it is:
So many people I know, myself included, are trying their hand at casual dating, whatever that means. For now, I'm going to loosely describe it as, unattached, no strings, dating. Dating to get to know others without the pretense of exclusivity in an intimate but social setting. Capiche?
The problem is, none of us know how to successfully do this! At the moment, I'm not seeing anyone. I'm not exactly accessible considering it's winter in Chicago and I'm mostly hibernating. And so, the undating game goes. Everyone's looking and not looking at the same time. Do we really even know what we're looking for? Does it matter that our dating prerequisites can change on a whim?
To be continued...

A Change Will Do You Good!

2010-01-04T02:47:00.000-08:00

Sheryl Crow said it best! A change will definitely do you good. At a time where most are making New Year's resolutions, most of which they won't keep beyond February, but I digress, now is the appropriate time to execute changes.
I'm not talking the usual diet & exercise changes though. I'm talking of changing locations, perhaps even countries. My heart's desire is to move to another country, even if it's just for a year. It's an experience that just can't be beat. It's one, should the right opportunities present themselves, I plan on embarking on.
Tonight, a friend asked, "what's so great about staying that's keeping you from following your heart?" I was forced in that instant to run through my thoughts & search my heart for the answer to that question. Here's what I realized, there's nothing keeping me here other than a fear of the unknown. That same friend told me that if leaving friends and family is the issue, not to worry b/c friends and family will always be there. I have no significant other, and no children, therefore nothing tying me down.
I'm hoping that my research into this will point me in the right direction, which will hopefully be a move across the pond! Wish me luck! :)

Dare To Be A Dreamer

2009-12-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

“Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today.” -James Dean

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.” -Gail Devers

“A dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.” -Oscar Wilde

In this life, those who dream, hold the keys to beautiful futures. I'm sure of it. Think about it. Many of life's greatest moments came to be because someone had a dream. Yeah, I know, everyone always talks about Dr. King and his dream. That's great. Truly. But not what I'm talking about. With 2010 quickly approaching, and 2009 almost in the history books, I was reminded today to hold fast to my dreams. My dreams of my future. What I want to do, where I want to go. Dreams of life, love, and happiness. So I wanted to share that with whomever comes across this, please, no matter what trials may come, hold on to your dreams. For they are yours and they are beautiful.

*Peace*

Giving Thanks!

2009-11-26T19:49:00.000-08:00

Today is my 27th birthday and Thanksgiving Day! What better way to start a new year than with a heart of Thanksgiving. I hope that life, in my next year of revolving around the sun, is just as wonderful as I imagine. :)

"The sky is falling! The sky is falling!"

2009-11-14T04:23:00.001-08:00

-Chicken Little

Or so it seems. In case you missed the memo, and the numerous new tv show & movie trailers; the world is going to end in 2012. Yes, the end of days is upon us.
Leave it to Hollywood to give us all types of ill, scary, insane, and poorly acted scenarios to scare the sh*t out of us. And because, in a world where, despite what many want to believe, capitalism reigns supreme, people go rushing off to theaters or Hulu or whatever to watch and see what's possibly going to happen. Which is a nice trip to the bank for all those Hollywood folk, but if the world is ending in 2 years, what are they gonna do with their money?!
Welcome to the new Y2K folks! Remember that? Oh how soon we forget! Remember all the talk of the world ending, computers crashing, clocks/calendars resetting because they weren't made to count past 1999, losing all your money, and my all-time favorite - stockpiling food. (Which reminds me: if the world were going to end, who's going to eat all that damn food you just bought? AND what makes your family so special that they'd survive? I aint sayin', but I'm just sayin')
Instead of wondering if the world's going to end, why not just focus on living? THERE'S a thought! Let's put a positive spin on this thing. Let's fix New Orleans, heal the world, feed the hungry, stop homelessness - do something GREAT! What do you say? Want to try it?
What's the worst that could happen, right? If I'm right, we all live past 2012 and keep it moving in the right direction. If I'm wrong, well, we'll all be dead and no one likes a braggart.

About A Boy <3

2009-11-11T21:05:00.000-08:00

Awesome. Smart. Handsome. Funny. Nerdy. Bright eyes. Great skin. Beautiful laugh. Smart. Crazy-the good kind;-). Did I mention funny? Loving. Caring. Kind. Giving. Did I mention Handsome? How about Awesome? He is.

Butterflies. Crazy tummy. Flip flops. Nervous giggles. Big smiles. Crush. I feel.

He'll never know.

Crushed. I feel. :(

Take Your Advice & Shove It!

2009-11-10T23:55:00.001-08:00

Newsflash: I'm newly single; not a newborn.

It appears that everybody and their mama- literally- has relationship advice to offer. Most of it entirely unsolicited. I mean, what makes people think that a) they're advice is correct, b) that I even want it, and c) that there's something wrong with being without a man? *Kanye shrug* I mean really, why don't they just let me be great?!

With regard to Point A: Those who are quick to offer advice are, on most occasions, DEAD wrong. Many advice givers would probably reconsider giving it out if one could show them the percentage of how many times they're wrong. But then again, they'd probably just say you weren't doing it right. *sigh* This is the exact reason I have a rule: I do not give advice. I don't want to be held responsible for whatever consequences may arise from something you got from listening to me. If you fail, you fail because you listened to yourself! Ha! Now aren't you the smart one? :)

Point B: Just keep it to yourself. Period. Hell, I'm probably not listening anyway. And if I am, it's because I'm waiting for my moment to tell you to Shut the hell up! Know that I say it with all the love I can muster. No hard feelings, k?

And lastly, point C: In case you didn't know, there's no law anywhere stating that a woman, at any age, must have a man to call her own. And single, is just fine. Trust me. I'm a firm believer that a person who cannot stand to be alone, probably shouldn't be in a relationship. One must learn to be alone first. After all, you need to "commune" with yourself. Find out what you like and don't like. In my world, Single is the new Black. A few of my most awesome friends are single.

Growing...

2009-10-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

My 27th anniversary of life is fast approaching! And boy has 26 been a good/crazy/fun/exciting/interesting year! Even with all of its up and downs, I still love my life. Because I'm awesometastic! :)

I'm single again! There's really nothing left to say about that. Sh*t happens and we move on. Happy days are here again. Wait. They never left. :) But I totally have a crush. It's rather cute really. I mean, we'll see if anything comes to fruition, but hey! It's really nice anyway.

I've constantly been reminded over and over this year that I have the dopest friends on Earth. They're overwhelming supportive. And I love them for it. I also have the best family EVER. We're together- thick & thin. Even those who sometimes get on my last nerve, I love them dearly.

I've recently separated myself from some friends though. Some friendships are seasonal, and oftentimes they expire. It doesnt mean those people are bad people, it means that our time together has ended. I still love them! But from a distance. Ha!

Look for more updates! I'm BACK! :)

I've Got Sooooooooooooooul!

2009-08-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

I'm superbad! :)

So, this summer (and I use the term summer loosely) has been fun and semi uneventful. Last week I went to two concerts, Reflection Eternal & De La Soul.

Supernatural killed. He was an amazing freestyler. Slaughterhouse killed- but not in a good way. They were drunk/high/whatever and it was hella obvious. I'm starting to think that maybe a sober show would've been better since I hear their album is pretty good. Slum Village seemed very weird with only two members on stage. (RIP Dilla & Baatin) Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek was good. I was out on the floor dancing as many people left during Slaughterhouse's awful performance. The show took forever to start, which seems to always be the case at House of Blues. You may leave feeling great from the music, but exhausted from the waiting and the standing. Fix that, HOB!

De La Soul ROCKED! Like really. They've been going strong for more than 20 years and the music still moves the crowd. I was so happy. It was crowded. Packed even. But we were jammin so hard it didn't matter. *sigh* Whatever happened to great music?

The Roots & Common are coming on the 12th, but no ticket info has been released and I'm getting anxious! :( LOL!

A Healthier Me... Hopefully

2009-08-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

I've been almost meatless for for 17 days. And boy, I'm glad this isnt permanent. I'm just cleansing, detoxing, whatever you want to call it, but it's helping. I'm also going to try my hand, or shall I say body, at Bikram Yoga. I've been told it's very stress relieving and that after a good 90 minute sweat you leave feeling so good! I'm ready! And when people ask me about how I plan on tolerating the heat, I think it'll be alot like sitting outside for hours at Lollapalooza. LOL!

It's quite nice watching my pants get looser. It's not fun however, trying to decide what to wear. Ha! Hopefully, I can keep this up. I really want to be healthier, not just for vanity, but because I want to be able to kick ass at 65. Unh!

In my absence...

2009-08-11T14:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in more than 2 months!! Ohmygoodness! I really have no real excuse. I'm a bad blogger. Apparently. I'll do better when it's colder, I'm sure. I still love you!

-S:)

Takin' it back...

2009-06-07T17:30:00.000-07:00

Keepin' up with my last post, this joint here is CLASSIC!

S:)

Dear Summer,

2009-06-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

Please come out to play. After a long, cold winter and now a rainy, cloudy spring; your presence is needed now more than ever.

Oh, Summer, you bring out so much fun! From the candy painted convertibles, the old men with the Lamboghinis hanging out in the Viagra Triangle, the really drunk girl in the booty shorts and stilettos stumbling down the street, the really drunk guy who is telling her she is a "drunk b*tch", to eating lunch/dinner al fresco. And everything in between.

Not to mention Summer, girls everywhere would appreciate a warmer walk home during their Sunday morning walk of shame. Bathing suits all over the city are hanging in closets, or stuffed in drawers not getting any love.

My pedicured toes have been getting really upset with me for teasing them with sandals one day and shoes the next.

So, I said all this to say, Summer, BRING YA @SS!

Love Always,

S :)

Here's a lil' somethin' for summer. ;-)

What's HOT in '09?

2009-05-30T15:52:00.000-07:00

So, we're almost half way through the year and I decided to come up with a list of things that are hot, or not so hot, in 2009.

HOT:

1. Skin clarity- yeah, I said it. Washing your face is SO important. I'm starting to think many people don't realize it. Ladies, I know you wanna put your best face forward this summer, but makeup is meant to ENHANCE your natural beauty, not CREATE it. Before and after wearing makeup, remember to wash your face. Always remember this: CLEANSE, TONE, MOISTURISE. Fellas, you gotta keep it 100 too. You can't throw on your flyest clothing and approach a beautiful young lady and your skin is looking sinful. Get it together!

2. Smelling good- take a shower. use the right deodorant. 'nuff said.

3. Intelligence- do I really need to say more?

4. Properly fitting clothing- don't put that shirt/skirt/whatever on if it doesn't fit!

5. Causes- everybody who's anybody has a cause. what's yours? from breast cancer research and awareness to MS to leukemia... there are plenty of causes for you to fight for. find something you feel passionate about and get out there and make an impact on the world. you may even meet some new people while doing it! :)

6. Eco-friendly- you know how the saying goes, "save your Mother!" <---Earth, that is. Get rid of the plastic shopping bags and swap 'em out for some cute and cool canvas bags that you can reuse. If you must use plastic, find a way to reuse the bag to reduce your carbon imprint.

7. Girls' Nights- it's okay to ditch your boyfriend for a night out with your girl friends. Go! Have a few drinks, eat some good food, dance the night away. Your mental health will thank you later.

8. Reading- it's cheap, it's fun, and you could learn something in the process.

NOT:

1. The election is over, Obama won, please put your studded and bedazzled Obama shirts AWAY!

2. Bad breath- in a world where there are so many things you can now for this, bad breath should no longer be a problem.

3. Stalking- if s/he doesn't wanna be with you, move on. life's too short to be crazy. :)

4. Public intoxication- it's gross. no one wants to see your drunk stumble or hear you mumble/groan/yell/whatever. Drink enough to be nice, not obnoxious!

5. Rudeness- really, being mean as hell all unnecessarily is so not cool.

6. Swag- this word should die. it should be buried next to bling bling. lol.

7. Overspending- in this economy, one should be conscious of their money. make a little go a long way. you'll thank yourself later.

8. Chipped fingernail polish- either get it redone or take it off. Eww.

*this list will be amended as things come to me. feel free to extend the list in the comments*

Livin' Righteous or Dead Wrong?

2009-05-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

So, with this "new" natural hair movement, comes alot of ideas from Educated Black People. Alot of EBP "keep it real" by wearing natural hair styles. And for some, these styles evoke a stronger sense of self for its wearer. Naturals can become incredibly social conscious; highly aware of their "blackness".

I've come across quite a few black men who have gorgeous heads of locs. I mean long, beautiful, butt-length locs. I've listened to these men say how they're trying to bring unity in the community, changing the world, climbing the corporate ladder, "righteous" etc. etc. And yet, I've seen many of these men date white women--- almost exclusively.

What's up with that?!

Is it possible for a black man to fight for the "black struggle" without fighing for the black family? Is this man really righteous or full of hot air? What do you think? Is he dead wrong for that?

I wonder these questions everytime I come across one of these situations. I try to be open-minded and say, "hey! to each his own. we all have our preferences. whatever they may be." Now, I'll admit, sometimes, I do get a little judgmental. Sometimes, I wanna fight this man til the death with reasons why he should give his heart only to beautiful, strong, intelligent, black women. Sometimes, I just throw in the towel and say, "hey! this guy wasn't a loss at all. he's totally doing us a favor with his choice." LMAO.

I have friends who say men like this are FAKE. But can you judge a person's "realness" by their reality?

I guess, I'll never REALLY know.

Let's Party in Peace!

2009-05-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

My boyfriend and I went to see Drake at House of Blues Chicago this weekend (5.15.09) as an early birthday present to him. We both had a mixtape buzz from Drake's albums and thought we were in for a good show. I mean, hell, we were both disappointed by hearing "Best I Ever Had" edited to death on the local radio station and figured we'd better go see him before he gets greater commercial success. Not knocking his career, but sometimes, radio kills the realness of the music. Ya feel me?

So, doors were supposed to open at 11, with the show starting at 12 midnight. The night was off to a bad start when the doors didn't open until midnight. We should've known then. The show was downhill from there with the highlight of the show only being the 30 minutes that Drake actually performed. The show was filled with lots of really bad opening acts. I'm talking about guys rapping together like it was a sing-a-long. Singer Ben One performed, Shawnna guest starred on one of his tracks. Then, finally, at 3:15 AM, Drake has finally made it to the building.

We, as paying concert goers, got no explanantion as to why he was late. No apology for wasting our time. Nothing. Just a mediocre show with terribly bad sound. Hostility and tensions were running high. The fans had grown restless from waiting and drinking. Women who had made the bad decision to wear 4 in pumps to a standing room only show were taking off their shoes and standing barefoot on that dirty floor. Then, during one of the most anticipated songs of the night, a fight breaks out. Someone gets smashed over the head with a bar stool during a fight (probably for stepping on some dude's Jordans), security seemed to be unable to control the fight, and the show comes to an abrupt end. People were then told to leave the premises. As hundreds of disappointed concert goers exit the building, we suddenly hear "pop! pop! pop!"

Gunshots!

I found out later on the local news that a 21-year-old male had been shot in the ass after the show. Yup. A bullet in the ass.

The House of Blues was closed, and we, the fans, most certainly did not get the show we paid for. This show lacked organization. From beginning to end it was a free-for-all. But aside from those obvious issues, I left the show wondering,

WHY CAN'T WE PARTY IN PEACE?!

This is exactly why we as black people catch such a bad rap. We can't seem to go out and enjoy ourselves peacefully. Don't fly off the handle cause somebody stepped on your J's, don't get mad cause some random dude is looking at your chick. Don't go to your car and get your piece. Is "earning" your respect really worth going to jail? CHILL PEOPLE.

Besides, the rest of us came to kick it. Take your bullsh*t somewhere else.

When Life Hands You Lemons...

2009-05-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been having some real rollercoaster mood swings. One minute, I'm up! Happy, excited, positive, upbeat. The next, I'm down. Sad, mopey, negative, no fun at all. I usually have nerves of steel, but they are completely shot to hell right now. I've been so upset sometimes lately that my hands start to shake and I find myself on the verge of tears.

There are so many things running through my mind. I wanna fix things, make them better, but at the same time I feel like I am a loss for the right resolution. I'm in a flurry of mixed emotions. I feel beat down. But I know that things could be much worse, and I find solace in being grateful that it's not. My boyfriend says I spend entirely too much time thinking and analyzing. He says I'm a victim of thinking too much. I say too many people are guilty of not thinking enough. Where's the medium?

Aside from my own personal problems, bad/unpleasant news is at an all-time high, not just national and local, but from friends and family. I have friends/family dealing with awful divorces, unhealthy relationships, unemployment, death/near death, and the one that tugs at my heart, the loss of an unborn child. How does one stay positive in times like these?

I've resolved to be more vigilant in the pursuit of my own happiness, in hopes that maybe I can affect those around me. This blog, although I've neglected it for almost a month (sorry, blog!) has been my outlet. I'm going to get back at it (I swear fo' Bob!) and turn these lemons, into lemonade! :)

I think she got the hint...

2009-04-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

..."she" being Mother Nature. For a few days I've been complaining about how I wish Spring would come, and how I wish the weather would get better, etc. etc. etc.

Well, she showed me what she's made of today. We got plenty o' sunshine all up and through the City of Wind. Yesterday AND Today. I guess she showed me, huh? Well, I'll take it! :)

I'm Moooooooving!

2009-04-11T17:25:00.001-07:00

Yesssssssssssssssssssssssssss! *insert soul clap here*

My apartment search has ended. We're leaving our place of a year and a half and moving into a fabulously cute condo. It's a lovely 2 bedroom with lots of nice amenities. :) Even though our search is over, the hard part hasn't even started. The packing and the actual moving. We'll be moving in about two weeks so...

...wish me luck! :)

The Maturation of Me:)

2009-04-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever reached a point where you look at yourself and you SEE how much you've grown up? Am I the only person whose had that personal A-Ha! moment?

It started with my now somewhat deceased love of parties. I used to be a reasonably social girl. I enjoyed my fair share of parties and clubs. I definitely had a few nights where I came home, only to get ready for work. LOL! But to be honest, I don't miss those days. Granted, I had entirely too much fun, but I'm done with that mess. Back in February, I went out with some friends and I thought I was going to lose my mind. I found myself thinking, "I came left the house for THIS?!" At first I'd think, "oh no! I'm getting old!" But now it's more, "Yeah, I've grown up." I definitely prefer a more laidback setting these days, and I'm cool with that ;)

This more adult, laid back mentality has flowed over into other parts of life. I'm a much calmer person. It takes alot more than it used to to ruffle my feathers. I used to fly straight off the handle with things, now I take things in stride. I'm slow to anger, but still quick to be annoyed and the line is still very thin. I haven't yet figured out how to regulate that one. LOL! :)

I've rekindled my interest in church. I have a strong desire to do some non-profit, community outreach work. I'm still somewhat self-involved, but now, I really want to do something to make an impact on the community. I'm working on going in that direction...

Sooo anyway, watch me grow!

25 Random Things About Moi :)

2009-03-30T22:40:00.001-07:00

I know this is a Facebook thing, but I thought it'd be fun to post it on my blog. So, here it goes:

1. I secretly want to be a writer. But not a book writer, maybe columnist or a ghost blogger or something like that.

2. I talk to my mom everyday without fail, whether its by phone or text. But we communicate daily. Without her, sometimes I think I'd just plum lose my mind.

3. I am obsessed with my hair and that's not a good thing.

4. I cannot leave the house without earrings. And if by some rare occurrence I do, I go back home.

5. I love shoes. I'm not so much an addict, as just someone who enjoys fancy footwear. ;)

6. I love salads. Not for dieting purposes, I just like eating them.

7. Eating fruit makes me happy. I especially love oranges. <3

8. I'm a Facebook junkie. I check it everyday. It has even replaced most other forms of communication.

9. Gmail, too. Google is THE BEST! (shout out to Google!)

10. I wear socks to bed. Everynight. Even in the summer.

11. I cannot live w/o air conditioning. The thought of not having it makes me wanna burst into a cold sweat.

12. I'm a tough cookie. I don't like to be babied and all that crap. I can handle it. Just bring it.

13. I have a creative streak that I really prefer to keep under wraps.

14. I absolutely love my family. They are the freaking best. Hands down.

15. I wish my BFF & I spoke more. But she's a single mom with two boys. Her time is precious. So texting has become our thing.

16. I want to get married. I dream of my future family and husband and what my life will be like.

17. I love the Lord and I'm trying to build a better relationship with Him. <3

18. I watch That 70's Show every week night. It's such a funny show. :)

19. I'm very sarcastic and oftentimes get misunderstood as being mean.

20. I really like purple nail polish.

21. I'm a book worm. I read multiple books a week.

22. I use Google... alot. If it isn't on Google, then I don't believe you! ha!

23. Sometimes, I feel lonely. Even if I'm not alone. (but I'm not depressed)

24. My cousin Samone is one of my best friends. She is a great listener and non-judgmental. I respect that.

25. I'm brutally honest. If you don't want to know the truth, do not ask me. Tread lightly.

"This Above All To Thine Ownself Be True"

2009-03-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

The one topic I've tried to stay away from blogging about is relationships. Well, I'm gonna put that to the side right now and say, sometimes, relationships wear you out. Sometimes you just get a headache thinking about how much effort has to go into being happy with you and being the you that you're happy with while being happy with someone else. I said alot right? Let me say it one more time:

"Sometimes you just get a headache thinking about how much effort has to go into being happy with you and being the you that you're happy with while being happy with someone else. "

Ha! Trying saying that 10 times.

Anyway, it's work. If anyone tells you relationships come easy, they are a liar. It's so easy to say you love someone, but it's much harder to actually just love them. Oftentimes in relationships, we find ourselves trying to change someone to be the person that we feel they should be, or even that we feel we need them to be. On the other hand, sometimes we find ourselves trying to change ourselves, trying to live up to someone else's "perfect" vision of who we are and what we should be. I've come to realize neither of these works. Ultimately, in order for any relationship to work, including friendships, you absolutely must know yourself. You must find the true you that you love and go from there. Sometimes, we can get so caught up in others' opinions of us... we must be true to ourselves. Our true selves. I know this sounds soooo cliche', but it's sooooo true.

Be true to yourself. Love yourself first. Only then can you love someone else. And if the person you choose to share your life and your love with, doesn't love the you that you love, then maybe s/he isn't the one for you.

Never lose yourself to gain someone else, cause in the end, you lose twice.

Apartment Hunting Sucks...

2009-03-30T22:12:00.000-07:00

I've been living in my current apartment for almost a year and a half. My lease is up in exactly one month (!) and I couldn't be happier. I am absolutely OVER this apartment. The original washer and dryer was from The Wonder Years and it started smoking one day with our clothes in it. Then it took approximately 3 weeks for it to be replaced. Yes, THREE WHOLE WEEKS. Also, the landlord lives below us, he has a band, they rehearse IN his apartment. It makes me sick that they practice on Thursdays until well after 9 o'clock. We're talking about sometimes til 11 pm! They aren't even that good, by the way. Hmmm... what else? Oh yeah, my landlord just all around really irritates me. He's not a good businessman, and that irks me. Handle ya business, mayne!

Anyway, I found a condo I like. It's a bit on the smaller side, but it meets all my criteria. It's cheaper, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, two bedrooms, a nice bathroom, it's walking distance to the train and a bus, and most importantly, all utilities are included in the rent. What more could a girl ask for?! I really hope my search has ended right here because apartment hunting sucks.

There are ads that read, "Sunny, gut rehab, newer appliances." Excuse me, but where I'm from, a coat of white paint doesn't mean it's a gut rehab. And if something is new, it's just new. Not new-ER. GTFOHWTBS. I'm also tired of people thinking they're gonna get more for a place with no washer and dryer in the building. I'm tired of trying to figure out a new neighborhood. I'm just tired already.

Anyway, it's late and I should be sleeping, but when the wheels in your mind are turning, sleep doesn't come easy.

My Hair Love Affair

2009-03-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Well, after having honey colored highlights and light brown hair for the better part of a year, I've decided to go darker. Not jet black. Just a nice dark(est) brown. I've been dark for a few hours, but it was love at first sight. <3

It's a welcome change. I changed it because I couldn't decide what color I wanted, but I knew the highlights had to go! Growing up, my hair was sandy brown and in the summer, it oftentimes turned a bright reddish-orange color. It's okaaaay, but it became kinda blah. I also went darker because with the lighter color, my hair always seemed to be "thirsty" on the ends to me. This will help eliminate that problem. It's really becoming a journey of discovery of what hair needs, likes, and wants and I'm enjoying it.

I'm also going to stop being a lazy ass and always resorting to my go-to style, the afro puff. I now want to experiment with some fabulous natural styles.

In other hair news, I'm still using jojoba oil in my conditioner. Still love it. I'm also now using Kemi Oyl in my hair and gosh :blush:, I freakin' love it! I'd forgotten how awesome this stuff was. Yeah, it costs $7 for the medium sized bottle, but it's so worth it, and a little goes a long way.

As far as conditioners, I'm using Herbal Essences Totally Twisted. It's working out just great for me at the moment, but I'm still open to trying other products. After all, I don't want my hair to become dependent on it. :)

I'm basically over my whole Carol's Daughter phase. I still love the Mimosa Hair Honey, but as far as everything else goes, I kinda feel like the product quality has changed. Is it just me? It could be because....

my hair has changed again! I once complained about my girls being tightly coiled ringlets (I'm having trouble figuring out my hair type) that were always densely packed on my head. Now, My ringlets are looking fuller, lusher, and they're STRETCHING! Yessssssssssssssss. Praise Black Jesus! :)

So there you have it, my hair love affair. I hope it never ends.

Ahh, alas, Spring has Sprung!

2009-03-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

I am all to excited that it's Spring in Chicago... and it actually feels like Spring! We've been having some great mild weather. It's just all to fabulous! I've been living in Chicago for almost 8 years (yikes!) and I've come to realize that it doesn't warm up until AFTER Memorial Day. This year, the story may be something altogether different... and I LIKE IT!

People are smiling, kids are playing outside, I've (temporarily) traded in my boots for a pair of sneakers. Which reminds me, I need a fresh pair for this year. I don't wear them often, but when I do, they must be hawt!

I've cleaned my closet, cleaned my whole apartment, and I'm also cleaning up my life. :)

Anyhow, Spring has sprung and I dig it!

Social Media & Jobs

2009-03-18T13:58:00.000-07:00

So, I'm in the market for a new job. And, unfortunately, so are millions of other people. I'm trying to find a way to connect with employers that (a) stands out from the plethora of other resumes/cover letters they receive and (b) not seem crazy. I've been hearing about people reaching out to employers by using social networking media, but I mean, contacting an employer on Facebook just seems odd to me. Where is the line between business and personal? Just because a potential employer is on Facebook, doesn't mean they want business inquiries. Facebook may be where they communicate with their real friends only.
CNN is doing a special tonight on how to use social media outlets to find a job, so I will definitely be watching, and I hope they help me define the line between business and personal when it comes to these sites.

Blood in the Streets

2009-03-15T15:51:00.000-07:00

Morbid, I know. Let me apologize in advance for how sad what I'm about to say is, but let me also point out how it needs to be noticed.

The violence must stop. NOW.

I find myself afraid to watch the local news most days. Especially when the weather has been unseasonably warm. The number of violent crimes amongst young black men in Chicago is increasing. Some of the people who were shot, weren't even the bullet's intended target. All of them were absolutely senseless. Gang violence. Domestic violence.

It's so bad, Chicago Public Schools had to change their rules regarding attendance at high school basketball games. Students can no longer go to a rival school and attend "the game of the year." Parents and relatives can't follow their future NBA star to all of his games. Visiting teams' fans have to be pre-approved by the host school's principal, or no fans at all.

People are being shot and killed with AK47s. An assault rifle?! Multiple rounds are being fired in Black communties. Children are dying. Our future leaders, are being killed at the hand of senseless violence. It hurts my heart. Something needs to be done. Something HAS to be done to stop this. An entire generation is completely desensitized to violent crimes. It's becoming so commonplace.

The's blood in the streets and it belongs to beautiful, black children. How do we make it stop?

Domestic Violence: Love Shouldn't Hurt

2009-03-08T15:16:00.001-07:00

Since the 2008 election campaigns, I would have to say I have become consumed with news. I read it online, watch it on tv, discuss it with friends and family. I am definitely an informed individual. My tv is always on some news channel, with the exception of my sitcom fixes. But one story that's been in the news for a month now is the Chris Brown/Rihanna fiasco. So I'd like to take the time to say one thing:

Love should NEVER hurt.

In relationships, we all, at some point or another, experience ups and downs. Oftentimes we can disagree with our significant other on things that we feel passionately about, but please do not let it get to the point where passion translates into pain.

No one, and I mean absolutely NO ONE, should hit, punch, kick, shove, or any other fighting term you can think of; another person. A man should not hit a woman, and vice versa. I don't believe that a person can "ask" for it. If you're ever in a situation where someone hits you, please leave. Without hesitation. You don't ever deserve to be hit. No matter the situation.

All too often have instances where abuse is occurring, the end result can lead to physical and emotional scars, hospitalization, and sometimes death.

Let's face it, we all get angry. But the important thing to remember is how to handle it. After all, if you love someone, and you want to continue that relationship, violence is not the answer. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please seek help.

Try the National Domestic Violence Hotline:

http://www.ndvh.org/ or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Who's Afraid of Big, Bad Rush?!

2009-03-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

(photo courtesy of: http://politicsoffthegrid.wordpress.com/2008/12/29/response-to-obama-parody/?referer=sphere_search )

Rush Limbaugh. staunch Conservative radio show host, Obama critic, de facto spokesperson of the Republican party, prescription drug addict. (sorry, I had to get that last one in there. cheap shot, yes, I know.)

What is it about Rush that a controversy *must* arise from everything he says? From the Michael J. Fox controversy to, Barack "the magic negro." It absolutely amazes me that he has such a following. But hey, to each his own.

I will say this, I don't agree with what Mr. Limbaugh has to say, but I do agree that he has the right to say it. Mind you, I understand that parties will feud and disagree, however, I think it's a bit insensitive to the needs of an entire nation to say repeatedly now, that he hopes for the Obama Administration to fail. This recession has affected people from the penthouses on Wall Street all the way to the every day man/woman working everyday to support a family. Millions of people are counting on this working, even if they're opposed to this stimulus (spending) bill, I think there's a much better way to express discontent. Maybe he believes that there's a better way to save us all from the worst slump in history, then he should come forward with a better idea. He should come forward with what he has. Afterall, no one and I mean absolutely no one, should want us all to be living in poverty and to watch the country crumble all around us. Has he forgotten the faceless many who cried out in the election that they, that their children, that their future, needed whatever change Barack Obama was attempting to bring to the nation? The old ways have gotten us nowhere at this point.

I'm also curious as to why Republicans who "speak out" or publicly disagree with Limbaugh, have a change of heart and apologize to him. Is this their way of attempting to unite what appears to be a broken political party? Are they trying to maybe show a united front to a certain degree? Michael Steele, in what I like to refer to as his attempt to, in his own words, get to the "hip-hop urban suburban community", he called Rush an entertainer in an interview with D.L. Hughley on his CNN show, "D.L. Hughley Breaks The News." It looked as if Steele was trying to smooth ruffled feathers. Afterall, he was being interviewed by D.L. and hip-hop pioneer Chuck D was also involved in the discussion. Ok, so, Steele said that. But later, he "apologized" to Limbaugh. Why? No one set him up. No one made him say that. No one made him refer to Rush a comedian and an entertainer. He said that himself! Now he's tucked his tail between his legs and reneged. Oh, Michael Steele, How your backpeddaling entertains me! This is not the first time that a fellow Republican has apologized to Rush Limbaugh. What gives?! Why all the outcry, then the apology?

Who's afraid of Big, Bad Rush?!

Follow Meeeeeee, Why Don't You Follow Me e?

2009-03-01T19:15:00.001-08:00

hot song: insert soul clap >here< (give yourself 10 pts. if you know it)

Twitter is clearly, next to Facebook, what's hot in the streets. :)

Politicans, actors, musicians, teenagers, businesses, just about anyone you can think of "tweets." Even news channels like CNN & MSNBC communicate with viewers using Twitter. I recently started using it, and I've started "following" people. It sounds scary at first, a lot like "e-stalking".*lol* Afterall, that's pretty much what it is. It's very interesting what people can share with only 140 characters. One politician recently twittered about a military mission he was on... but it was supposed to be a secret. On Friday, I checked out Diddy's twitter page, and I noticed that he twitters alot, and most recently about tantric sex.

I'm still finding it hard to make so many people aware of what's going on in my life on facebook, myspace... AND twitter! LOL! Goodness, who knew other people really cared that, "Shakeia is spending all day Saturday on her couch" or that "Angie enjoyed the short work week and spent her off time with Marvin the Monkey"?! (Love ya, Angie.)

Self-importance is a helluva drug! :)

Anyway, I've totally dedicated myself to coming up with something creative to say on Twitter and I gotta admit, it's effen hard. I mean, I want all of my "followers" to leave feeling like they're taking something with them. You know? I want them to feel me. Haha.

So... Follow meeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

All Around the World, Same Song

2009-02-22T22:24:00.000-08:00

Yep, Digital Underground said it best.

Everything on the radio sounds the same. And not just songs using auto-tune, but damn near everything. From recycled beats and lyrics, to the same guest artists (i've listened to the radio and i swear i heard Lil Wayne four times in a row, but on different songs)... the music industry needs a burst of creativity, and not just from the artists, but from the execs. Commercial sounding tracks is what's driving the industry. The execs need to demand more. I'd really like to hear some songs that have some, well, soul - so to speak. Songs that say something. Songs that speak to the current generation. Songs that compel people to listen, think, and act.

C'mon music industry, WAKE UP! There's more happening in the world that could be spoke on besides @sses. Think about it.

Loverly Locks

2009-02-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

I've been on my hair journey for almost three years now, and moisturizer is something I've been desperately trying to find my product combination that will make my hair shiny. I've learned that natural hair isn't as shiny as relaxed hair, simply due to the fact that relaxed hair is smooth and light reflects better off of smooth hair. Buuuut, I recently started adding jojoba oil to my conditioner and it's yielding some fabulous results! Jojoba oil has no fragrance and it's not greasy at all. I absolutely love it. I'm going to also try to put a little on the ends after my hair dries. *fingers crossed* I hope this works, because EVOO just wasn't doing it for me.

Stay tuned....

love:)

And the award for the most overused word goes to...

2009-02-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

Swag*ger

–verb (used without object)
1.
to walk or strut with a defiant or insolent air.
2.
to boast or brag noisily.–verb (used with object)
3.
to bring, drive, force, etc., by blustering.–noun
4.
swaggering manner, conduct, or walk; ostentatious display of arrogance and conceit

And not to mention all the other words that have sprung from this swagger movement: Swagtastic, swaggerific, etc. :(

Dear people,

Find something else to say.

Signed,

No one on the corner has swagger like what?

*This was a public service announcement brought to you by the letter "S". *

"Hey, Bailed Out Banks, the government is watching you!"

2009-02-05T01:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, let me first say this, "I was NOT for the bank bailouts of 2008!"

Now, onto the subject at hand.

Am I hearing correctly that the government (Obama Administration included) is seeking to go heavy on the oversight of companies who take the bailouts funds? Is that not like giving someone money, then telling them what to do with it? Yesterday, President Obama imposed $500,000 caps on senior executive pay for the most distressed financial institutions receiving federal bailout money. Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't boards of companies determine executive pay? Not the U.S. Government. Talk about a major overstep. The board of a company is supposed to provide that kind of "oversight", therein lies the root of the problem. But I digress. I absolutely think that government oversight of private companies is going to end up being a waste of money. I also think that these companies should put taxpayer funds to much better uses than executive pay and private jets. Where is there a happy medium? What is necessary to create a system of checks and balances in which the taxpayer doesn't pay a heavy burden?

The Name Game

2009-02-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

Jack, Jack, bo-back,
Banana-fana fo-fack
Fee-fi-mo-mack
Jack!

Ahh, the name game! Remember as a child how fun it would be to singalong with a friend's name? Yes! Me, too.

Unfortunately, this post isn't about that.

It's about how parents today are getting crazy with the baby names, and I think it's about damn time we got back to the old school names. Now don't get me wrong, every family needs a Mustafah. (lol) But do we need Bomquiesha and alluhdat? I'm at the age where many of my friends are having children and sometimes, when I meet their little mini-mes I am astonished by my seemingly normal friend's choice of name for her offspring. I once knew someone with a daughter named "Honay"-- think Honey, but instead of the "e", you say "ay". Gah!

Black people in general are a creative people, I believe. Many genres of music were birthed by African-Americans. BUT, when it comes to naming your child, what the hell are some of you thinking?! Brothas and sistas, I implore you, when naming your little babies... yell the name! Yell the full name. Out loud. If you cringe when you say it, it's time to go back to the drawing board. If this technique doesn't work, try thinking like an employer. If you saw this person's name come across your desk on a resume, what would your first thought be. I'm not saying we have to go with completely Anglo names... but let's turn down the "creativity" a notch, and spare our children the name calling in school.

**Strong black names are still okay in my book, btw. haha.

Spending Bill or Stimulus Package???

2009-02-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

As many of you may know, President Obama is trying to get a stimulus bill passed to jump start the economy. Congress, while heavily Democrat, is having trouble agreeing on the terms of the bill. I understand that Republicans (some) are viewing this as a spending bill, because many of the provisions of the almost $900 billion package allow for monies to be allocated to interest groups. IMO, the monies should be put to use in creating jobs and infrastructure projects. **Edited to add** I just looked over the stimulus outline. It is chock full of spending.**

And now, I'm also starting to wonder if many of the allocations are necessary. That's the thing with these bills, I don't fully understand all the details. I believe that the economy definitely needs a boost, but how much will this cost the American people longterm?

I Really Could Use...

2009-02-02T13:29:00.001-08:00

a drink. Yes, at 3:30 pm, I would like a cold beer. Don't hate.

How can it get this bad?

2009-01-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

Lately in the news, there've been a couple really awfully sad stories of families who were suffering through the economic slump. These families were involved in stories of murder-suicide. The most recent, startling is the Lupoe family in California. Both Mr. & Mrs. Lupoe were fired from their jobs at Kaiser Permanente. In a letter, Mr. Lupoe stated that he and his wife had come to the conclusion that no one else should have their kids, and based on police reports, he killed his entire family (the couple had 5 children all under the age of 8) and then turned the gun on himself. Devastating. Tragic.

It really bothers me that things can get this bad. How can it be that the only solution is to kill yourself and those you love? I don't understand, and I probably never will. Those poor children's futures were taken away from them. I know that this isn't the only story like this, and I can only wish that it were the last. Families are breaking down as a result of the economic crisis. All one can do is pray that families find another solution, and that the government acts quickly, there is no time to waste.

Is Black the new black?

2009-01-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, in a sign that is to usher in the new Republican party, Michael Steele, was elected the first African American chairman of the Republican National Convention. Steele, is the former Lt. Gov. of Maryland. He was elected after 6 rounds of voting, after winning a majority of the votes. Yay for the GOP? :/

I'm not trying to take away from this moment for the GOP, or Mr. Steele, but... one has to wonder, was he really the right choice for the job? I mean, it took six rounds of voting which to me means there wasn't overwhelming support. Or was this all a ploy to get much of the vote they lost in the 2008 election? 90% of the minority vote went to then Senator Barack Obama. Are the Repubs trying to regain their once prosperous grassroots organization by electing a Black chairman? Is Black the new black?

I'm watching now to see what's going to happen. The GOP is a party divided. Michael Steele is a conservative, who is more toward the middle, and if Sarah Palin really is being groomed to become the GOP candidate in 2012, and she's so far to the right.... how will this work? Will they gain votes from moderates and staunch conservatives? Can the GOP rebuild in 4 years?

What about Rush Limbaugh? Is he the boss? Lately, Rush has been "challenging" the GOP to stand up to President Obama. Is there a separate division of the GOP that follows Limbaugh? How will the GOP unite their party and gain those states that "went blue"?

Out with the old, In with the new

2009-01-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

Or so the saying goes. Unlike many of my friends, I did not have an awful 2008, but I am positive 2009 will be better. I am absolutely thrilled that we have a new President. It was still quite sad when, on tv, as Bush 43 was lifting off in the helicopter for his last trip around Washington, D.C., the crowd started singing, "Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, hey, hey, hey, goodbye!" Was that just a little disrespectful? I mean, he was the elected President of the U.S. no matter how unpopular he was. :shrugs:

What's with people "debating" about "what if Michelle Obama was white?" I mean, that is SO not important. I don't wanna hear it, and I won't debate it. The End.

Like many, I've set a few goals for 2009... not resolutions. I hope to meet most, if not all, of them.

Let's see what this year has to offer.

Blagogate & a Kwamegate Update

2008-12-14T11:58:00.000-08:00

As a resident of Chicago, the current events have completely hit close to home. I live, work, play and, importantly, vote here. Just as the city is still riding high on the Obama wave. Just as we're hoping to win the 2016 Olympic bid. We get hit with two devastating facts, the city of Chicago is the murder capital of the U.S., and Illinois politicians are absolutely corrupt.
For as long as I've lived here, I've heard stories of corruption. Stories of mob ties and pay-to-play politics. It's awful and disheartening.

Now, to G-Rod. Governor Rod Blagojevich (D) is currently the topic of conversation all across America. And, in my opinion, he is a complete idiot. He has been "under investigation" for the past THREE years. And after 8 weeks, of phone wire taps, he's been arrested. Are you kidding me? After three years, all it took was a wire tap?! From a man who has said openly that his conversations can be recorded b/c he nothing he says or does is illegal. Ha! The jokes on you, G-Rod.

The charges against him are not surprising. But the conversations, are well, as he put it in reference to the President-Elect's senate seat, "****ing valuable." He's the guy who shot himself in the foot. He went and ran off at the mouth, and now his ass is in hot water.

I say he should resign, but his pride won't let him. He's definitely going down. Especially now that Tony Rezko, the infamous political fundraiser, is cooperating with the Feds. (In light of recent developments, Rezko's sentencing hearing has been postponed. I believe he'll get a reduced sentence due to the G-Rod scandal. Afterall, this proves that Rezko was telling the truth when he told of the Governor's scandals.)

Well, Democrats, what in the hell is going on?!

***KwameGate Update: Christine Beatty got 120 days in jail, too. She also has since divorced her husband.

Damn, Damn, DAMN James!

2008-12-07T17:54:00.000-08:00

So, in case you didn't know, we're in a recession. The only thing is, it took the government one whole year to figure it out! Seriously? Didn't we already know this?
Folks are losing jobs left and right. Unemployment numbers are up, which means the homeless numbers are soon to follow. And there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel. All the economists keep saying is that it's actually going to get worse. President-Elect Obama has a huge mess to clean up. But one question remains, whose fault is it? Some have blamed Alan Greenspan. Some have blamed George W. Bush. Some have blamed Wall Street. I can't say that I really care whose fault it is, but I know it needs to be fixed... and PRONTO! Damn near every major industry is in need of a bailout. The auto industry is in need and Congress is really reading the Big 3 the riot act since AIG came in and got the best of them. Damn, damn, DAMN!
I sincerely hope that something happens. I'm not exactly a fan of "bailouts", but we'll see what happens.

Oh and so much for our lame duck President... he's already (mentally) left office. God save us all!

Me & My Hair

2008-12-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been natural (free of relaxer and many chemicals) for 2 1/2 years now and it's been an uphill battle. Underneath my relaxer, I discovered I have ridiculously dense and curly hair. I have a love-hate relationship with my curly curls. Somedays, they're absolutely beautiful. They fall perfectly. They aren't tangly. They just look great! Then, other days, they piss me off. They won't act right. A couple curls decide to stick straight up. It looks puffy in places and curly in others. I spend hours in the mirror trying to battle with hair that has a mind of it's own.

But today, I think I won the battle. I actually washed, conditioned, and took the time to detangle (while the conditioner was still in, of course) with my big Ion brush. I actually got from root to tip! Yay! And after my shower, I applied a nice amount of Carol's Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey and I let it air dry. It's fabulous! I think I found my new routine...again. I think I got caught up in applying product (I'm a bit of a product whore) and trying to see what happens. I think I'm just going to stick with what works. Speaking of which, I need to head to Sephora and re-stock on Carol's Daughter. PLUS, I got my birthday $15 gift card from them, too. =)

Anyway, I am almost positive this wasn't interesting for anyone... but I enjoyed it. LOL!

BBS...

2008-11-24T10:08:00.000-08:00

Be back soon! Blogs on the way!

Happy Sweetest Day, Suckers!

2008-10-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

Haaaa! No really. I'm sick of hearing both men and women swear that Sweetest Day is for them. Sweetest Day, although it is the epitome of a "Hallmark holiday", is for everyone. It's a day that was created by some candy retailers in Cleveland, Ohio. The origin of Sweetest Day is frequently attributed to candy company employee Herbert Birch Kingston as an act of philanthropy. Basically, it was a day to give gifts to loved ones, and for the candy retailers to make money!

While I am all for sharing the love and making people feel good, I don't think it's anything to make a big fuss over, well, unless you really want to.

So, to all of you, Happy Sweetest Day, suckers!

Love,

~S~

Election Fatique

2008-10-15T22:06:00.000-07:00

I've watched all three Presidential Debates, I've listened to the talking heads on almost every major network, I've listened to many of my friends and family members' take on the current election, and I must admit, I am becoming quite tired. I really want this to be over already. I mean, we've got accusations of voter fraud and misspellings on voter registrations. The "attacks" and untruths being spewed are quite awful. Again, I am so ready for this to be over.

John McCain tried really hard tonight to call many of Barack Obama's statements and policies into question, and each time Obama answered with such clarity and a calm disposition. I'm not trying to sound biased, what I'm saying is, I don't think the hostility is necessary. Let your record and your policies etc. speak for themself. Stay on the issues. The whole Sarah Palin thing is also quite old. I mean, really, are we not completely "over" her?

Don't misunderstand my message here. I'm definitely absolutely positively going to vote in 3 weeks. I am going to cast a vote for the candidate that I personally believe will do the best job, but... I am ready for November already.

It's the First of the Month...

2008-10-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of October and fall weather has made its presence known in the Windy City. Last weekend it was 80 degrees, today it was a whopping 54 degrees! Cute boot weather.

Both Chicago baseball teams are in the playoffs. Go Cubs! Go Sox! The entire city is going insane. Even if you're like me and don't follow baseball, it's still a good time.

All the good shows are back on! Yes! As I type this blog, I am anxiously awaiting Private Practice, followed by Lipstick Jungle. Yes! After last week's episode of LJ, I need to see how this plays out.

I really don't have much to say today, so Happy October 1st all! =)

Oh! PS. It's fall. If your boots are still covered in salt from last winter's snow, thats gross and tacky. Clean your shoes. You'll thank me later. ;)

35 Days...

2008-09-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

The House defeated this great bailout plan that was supposed to "save" the U.S. economy. The Dow dropped 777.68 points. Stocks were down 10% and 1.2 trillion dollars was lost. Yesterday.

This. Happened. Yesterday.

So, Bush comes on TV this morning to appeal to Americans and to Congress stating that something needed to be done, urgently. So now, Congress is going back to the drawing board to try to re-write this plan in such a way that most (cause clearly not all will) agree on its terms.

I wonder what they'll come up with now.

Citigroup is buying Wachovia. Another one bites the dust.

Many are focused on Wall Street. What about Main Street, USA?

I am SO ready for the next debate AND the election. Whatchu got, Sarah Palin?

Early voting begins today in Ohio. A battleground state, my home state. People can register and vote at one time. Good stuff! The GOP is against this.

People everywhere are encouraging others not to wear campaign gear (like your Obama shirt) to the polls. Don't do it. We need your vote to count, no matter who you're voting for.

Get a friend to register and vote. It's time to get off your bum.

Pay attention to what's going on. Watch the news. Watch more than one channel so you get more than one view.

Watch the debates. Listen to what the candidates have to say about issues that affect you for the next 4 years.

I know I'm getting political in my blogs lately, but our lives depend on it.

My Reflection on the Issues: 42 Days and Counting...

2008-09-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

until the 2008 Presidential election! It's time to say Buh-bye to G.Dub and hello! to...well, I dunno. According to polls, (who's polls? everybody's polls, I guess) it's going to be a close one. A photo finish.

The first debate is this Friday night and boy am I ready! The topic at hand is foreign policy. I am very anxious to see if anyone is going to try to tie the economy into this. Because in my opinion, our economy matters globally.
**********************************************************************************
Sarah Palin is, an issue herself. Yes, I believe she is inexperienced. I'm almost positive she will continue to prove that over and over again. More and more information about her is being filtered out everyday. The VP debate should be interesting as well. I'd really like to hear her thoughts on what's happening in America and what she really plans on doing. Because all it sounds like to me is that we'll still be in a bad, if not even worse, way.

The war... damn, we're still fighting? I was watching the news and many young men are dying. A family friend was recently deployed and all his mom could do was cry and hope and pray that he comes home the way he left. This needs to stop. My thoughts and prayers are with the men and women and their families who are sacrificing for this country.

The economy... sucks AND blows right now. Companies are going bust left and right. There is worry about the state of the economy right now. We're getting mixed messages from economists and those close to the market. Some are saying, "your money is safe. we're just going through a rough patch right now. the market will rebound." Others are saying, " we've got potentially another 18 months of economic turmoil. AT MINIMUM." I don't know who to believe.

Joblessness/Unemployment...People are leaving for work and finding pink slips when they arrive. Some are leaving work with their belongings in boxes, leaving a company that has gone under.

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are going through foreclosure right now. Rates adjusted and they just can't afford their homes. Some are even upside down (they're paying more than the home is worth).

Banks are closing. I'm crossing my fingers right now that my bank stays open.

The number of homeless people is increasing. I haven't heard any "official" numbers, but I can just tell from my own experiences. I am seeing more and more people on the streets. It hurts my heart.

Violence is insane. Maybe it's just in Chicago, but kids are killing one another. The homicide rates are stifling.

Hurricane victims are returning home to nothing. Some are returning home to find that their homes are still standing yet they've still lost basically everything. and FEMA, yep, they failed us again.

Due to Gustav & Ike, there's a gas shortage in the southeast. Scared motorists were hording gas and now that's driven up the demand and the price, but the supply is low. What to do?

Oil prices in general are high. I take public transportation as much as possible and have seen the number of people on my route increase so much that I have to leave much earlier for fear of being obscenely late for work.

Global warming... it's 80 degrees in Chicago, in late September. Gah! I love nice weather as much as the next person, but seriously? 80 degrees going into October... in the Midwest? Huh!

Government bailouts...the government now regulates Fannie and Freddie. And they are also about to pass a $700 billion bail out for the mortgage industry. What effect is this going to have on us as citizens?

The cost of food is steadily rising. It was already hard for families, but with the fallout, it's going to be, if it already isn't, harder.

The national debt is mind blowing!

I'm pretty sure I could go on for hours about the issues. But what I want to know is, what's going to happen once the election countdown is over? What's going to happen with the campaigning is done? What's going to happen when a new President is inaugurated on January 20th, 2009?

Matt Damon...

2008-09-23T10:34:00.001-07:00

I meant to post this before but...

Matt Damon doesn't like Sarah Palin much.

Stop Watching MY Biological Clock!

2008-09-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

If you're a single, intelligent, professional young woman without children in your late 20s and early 30s, I'm sure you can relate to this.

Why is everybody watching my biological clock?! Why do people wanna know:

"why don't you have any children?"

"when are you gonna get married?"

"how much longer you gonna wait?"

All of the above are absolutely none of your business! There is nothing wrong with a young woman who chooses to live and enjoy her life prior to getting married and having children. I am in no way saying that there is anything wrong with those who choose to do either of those things, by all means, do you... but there's also nothing wrong with those of us who choose not to. I enjoy city living; I enjoy being able to come and go as I please; when I eat, my family is fed; I just enjoy my life.

So why does my biological clock concern others? Will they help me raise said needed children? Probably not. It is not 1960. Women can have completely fulfilled lives without the husband and 2.5 kids. Seriously? Wake up, people.

One would think with all the unplanned pregnancies among teenaged girls these days, a 25 year old woman with no kids would be a pleasant surprise. Nope! People compliment me, (wow! you'25 with no kids? that's awesome) then break me down in one fail swoop (what are you waiting for?). Folks are steady trying to put something all up in my uterus.

I'd like to start a movement. Ladies, It's absolutely, positively OKAY to not be married and not have kids! So, I say to all those who have, will, want to ask me those questions, "mind yo' damn business!"

Who is Bristol Palin's Babydaddy?

2008-09-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

So, now that conventions are over, it's time to really get to know Sarah Palin. I heard today on TV that she would b conducting her first interviews very shortly. But one of the burning topics on Americans ' minds is Bristol Palin's teenage pregnancy.

The McCain camp has said that they were aware of Bristol's pregnancy before choosing her mother, Sarah Palin to be the GOP Vice Presidential nominee. Hmmm... When Gov. Palin came forward with the information, she told us that a young (white) boy by the name of Levi Johnston had fathered the child.

But then, this video surfaced on Youtube

Bwahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhaa! This can't be real! Ohhhh Emmmm Geeeeeeeeee!

My thoughts on the RNC

2008-09-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

Well, as you all may know, the RNC is now over. (please hold your applause)

1. Who is Sarah Palin? - seriously, John McCain? We all know there's a very good chance he's going to die in office and she's going to be President. Can she handle it? Can her foreign policy skills, or lack thereof, really take this country in the right direction? Based on her speech, she really wasn't saying anything in my opinion. She was mudslinging and attacking Barack Obama and the Democratic party. What do we really know about her? Ever since the VP announcement, news and gossip has been abuzz with tidbits about Sarah Palin. I'm waiting to see how this unfolds. It just got interesting.

2. John McCain spoke for an hour. About what though? I didn't hear any plans or any policies? Tsk Tsk, but "the people" seemed to eat it up. I shudder at the thought of this man being President.

3. What was up with the random shots of the 25 Black people who attended? I mean, there were so many shots of one man's brown bald head! Were they trying to show that Blacks can be and are Republicans? I dunno.

I'm still shaking my head. I'm gonna have to finish this later.

KwameGate: Oh, What a Mess!

2008-09-03T17:02:00.000-07:00

Well folks, I'm back at it. I've got a couple of things to to discuss today. First up, Kwame Kilpatrick and Christine Beatty.

Kilpatrick's former chief of staff and alleged mistress, Christine Beatty invoked the 5th amendment 61 times today! She refused to answer any questions regarding using her Skytel pager to chat (i.e. have text sex) with Kwame. Yeah, NOW she knows how to shut her mouth. Perhaps she should've considered all of this BEFORE getting involved with a scandalous, married mayor. If she didn't want to incriminate herself, she should've invoked better judgment.

It is rumored tha Kwame may plead guilty to charges in the text messaging scandal.

Update: Kwame pleaded gulity. He'll serve 120 days in jail, he's been disbarred, he has to pay $1 million in restitution to the city of Detroit, and once he's released, he'll be on probation for 5 years, during which he cannot run for office.

After 7 months, the scandal comes to a close. **smh**

"What's up, my n*gga?"

2008-08-24T17:58:00.001-07:00

Gah! Ugh! Say what?!

Wait. I should probably tell you the full story.

So I'm walking down the street and I approach two Hispanic teenage girls. It's after 7:30pm and they're wearing sunglasses. Sunglasses at night? That's so 2001. But I digress. Tall girl says to short girl, "what are you gonna say to (insert random guy's name here b/c I forgot what she said)." And short girl says, "What's up, my n*gga?!"

I STOP dead in my tracks and say, "Excuse me. What did you say?" The two girls take off running. I'm not sure if they thought I was gonna beat them up or what. But I'm 100% sure they knew they shouldn't be talking like that.

N*gga is way too acceptable in today's society. I know that people say that we give words power and yadda yadda yadda, but some words are just plain offensive. And the n-word is one of 'em.

Some say that it's okay for blacks to use it but no one else. I guess we "own" the word. (rolls eyes) Some say that absolutely no one should use it. EVER. I'm not clear on the rules of the n-word, but I know that it's a bad word. Period.

So my question is, when is it EVER ok to use n*gga?

Great Friday Afternoon!

2008-08-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today!

My SO and I got up and cleaned our apartment. Then we went out for omelettes at Nookies Too. Ohio State's first game is next weekend. I. AM. READY! I went today and bought a new OHIO STATE black tee from Campus Gear in Lincoln Park. My older ones are really starting to fade so I needed a new one to add to the rotation. Check out this article I just read about them. Love it!

Next we went to Dollar Tree on Addison and got some house stuff. In this economy, it's really a great store! Everything is $1. But I got candles for $0.50...a steal!

Then we were off to Sears on Irving Park. There I got an awesomely cute dress! A grey dress with a matching belt. Very Michelle Obama (the new, black Jackie O).

And theeeeeeeeeen, I went to Marshall's. I usually hate going there because you have to fish for the clothing. It's like a game. You never know what you're gonna pull out. Well, today, I came upon a rally fierce pair of camel colored Jessica Simpson platforms. Rawr!

All in all, it was a great day! Now I'm at home relaxing watching Everybody Loves Raymond reruns on TBS. Tomorrow, it's party time! Two of my homies, David and Veronique are getting married. Love them! Congratulations to them! =)

One Dolla Holla!!!

2008-08-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

I realized that bars really do serve a purpose besides supplying booze. What is it you ask, well, it's cheap BAR FOOD. I found that one can eat dinner at various bars for cheap, for let's say less than $10.

Last night, at one bar, there were 10 cent wings and $3 beers. And directly across the street at a different bar, there were $1 burgers. Awesome!

I see why college kids live at these bars. It's better than Ramen, and it's around the same price. Yay for bar food!

(I know how random all of that was. But love it anyway, mmmkay?)

Are You Ready For Some Foooootbaaaaaaallll!

2008-08-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Yessir! I am too thrilled! Football season is back again!! (high five to Angie!) And this year, Comcast has the Big Ten Network so I can catch my hometown heroes whenever I wanna! God does answer prayer. But I have one more:

Dear Lord,

Please let this year be the year that my beloved Buckeyes DON'T CHOKE! Let this be another win like 2003. I promise to not be so hard on Michigan fans this year. I promise not to slam Illinois fans for finally being decent at football. I promise not to be an obnoxious fan....

Unless provoked. (teehee)

Amen!

Complaining... Part Deux: The Constant Complainer

2008-08-15T14:11:00.000-07:00

Well folks, it's reared it's ugly head again! I thought I'd beaten it! I thought I'd won! I thought "it" was out of my life for-freaking-ever! But alas, I was wrong. Oh. so. very. WRONG!

I have a new complainer in my life. Yep. A person who just ain't (I've been using this word alot lately) happy with ish. Nada. Zilch. Zip. Zero. They aren't happy with their current situation whatsoever. At least I wouldn't know if they were because all they do is dammit complain.

Well, I. Have. Had It! I don't wanna hear another person complain about their life. There are plenty of people who would give their right arm to be in your situation. They'd kill for a job, but they just can't get one. And here you have one and you are steady complaining about it. They can only dream about having a roof over their heads. And you have one and you're always b*tchin' about it.

This better be, scratch that. This IS the last incessant complainer I will deal with! I mean it! This is it! THE END. FIN.

Dear Annoying Ass, Complaining Ass, Unhappy Ass Person,

At little complaining is to be expected. We all do it. Hey! Even I'm guilty of it sometimes. But DAMN! you need to give yourself and those of us who sit and listen to you a break! My ears start to bleed whenever I hear you speak because they know that your misery is coming. My whole mood changes whenever I see your name in my caller id or my email. Sometimes, I don't even pick up, or read, because I'd really prefer NOT to be depressed. Face it, we ALL have problems. If you don't have problems, you should check your pulse, cause you might not be living! But it's how we HANDLE them that makes all the difference. However, in your case, these aren't even real problems. I'll tell you what, spend a month, a week, a day even; broke, homeless, jobless, and sitting on a crate. I bet you'll change your tune.

Signed,

No longer your shoulder to complain on!

"Pregorexia"

2008-08-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

Yeah, that was my reaction when I first saw the word, too. But it's apparently the latest, unhealthy craze having to do with pregnant women being obsessed with being skinny during the pregnancy and being able to fit into their pre-baby clothes right away. Some women even brag about being able to wear their "regular" clothes during pregnancy and they diet and exercise in such a way that it is unhealthy for both mother and child...

Which leads me to....

WHAT IN THE HELL IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?! You are supposed to gain a little weight while you're pregnant, I mean, you're carrying around another HUMAN BEING! What about being skinny is so appealing that you'd put both yours and your unborn child's health at risk? Calorie restriction is linked with growth retardation (and) birth defects, and (with) vitamin deficiencies, both for the mother and baby.

Is it those awful jeans you wanna wear? Is it the societal image that's portrayed? If it is, society is wrong as hell (as usual!). Someone needs to explain this to me. Eating for two people usually involves eating MORE. Not less. I am dumbfounded. And these women are just plain ol' DUMB!

Kwame: Reloaded!

2008-08-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

So... Governor Jennifer Granholm, the governor of Michigan has said that she will not pardon the Mayor of Detroit. (Good for her!) She said that the issues need to be resolved. (I'd have to agree with her there, too!) Also, in order to be pardoned, it is my understanding that he must first be convicted anyway. (Angie, care to help me out, here?)

Here's what bothers me though, according to this report on Reuters, Kwame was jailed for ONE NIGHT! For skipping bail! He violated the terms of his bond, not once, but TWICE. Seriously, I thought they were trying to NOT give this dude special treatment b/c he is the mayor, this looks like special treatment to me. It's my understanding (I am not a lawyer) that oftentimes when a person jumps bail, they are jailed until the trial. Had Joe "Alleged Murderer" Schmo done the same thing, you best believe he'd have been sitting in jail next to his obese, closet homosexual celly. But not Kwame. Kilpatrick was jailed for one night and his traveling privileges were revoked. He was restricted to the Detroit area and had to wear a tether ala house arrest.

NOW, Kwame is allowed to travel to the Democratic National Convention in Denver this month sans tether. They say he's not a flight risk, who cares? I'm not concerned about him being a flight risk because in true Detroit (say it "Dee-twaah") fashion, he's extra flashy. I mean, where else does the mayor wear ginormous diamond earrings?

Did I mention he's also a superdelegate? Great. Just effin great! Exactly what we need, another damn scandal! If/when it happens, don't say I didn't tell you so!

RIP Bernie Mac & Isaac Hayes

2008-08-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

We lost two great entertainers over the weekend. Bernie Mac on Saturday morning and Isaac Hayes on Sunday morning. May they rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with their families.

Speaking of unfaithful... Kwame Kilpatrick smh

2008-08-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Mayor of Detroit should hang his head in complete and utter shame. Kwame is one of the country's youngest mayors or a major city. He's been charged with felonies while in office. (Haven't heard? Where YOU been?) Kilpatrick was charged with eight felony counts, including perjury, misconduct in office, and obstruction of justice.

Oh and in case you missed it, in the middle of all of this, he *allegedly was having an affair with Christine Beatty, his former chief of staff and advisor. There are transcripts of the text messages.

Continuing on, this fool decides to leave town, WHILE HE'S OUT ON BAIL, to handle some **emergency business in Windsor, Canada. WTF? Did he really think he was gonna go unnoticed? YOU'RE the MAYOR, for goodness sake! AND... I'm sure once your passport was used, someone in Detroit was alerted to this. Now he's been sent to jail. He had the audacity to stand his ass up in court and apologize saying, "it won't happen again." You damn right it won't, cause you're going to jail, Mr. Kilpatrick.

Kwame Kilpatrick, you're a disgrace.

*he did it.

** was it really?

Is anyone faithful anymore???

2008-08-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

Real question.

I'm starting to really wonder this. Have you noticed how many affairs are being brought to the spotlight? I mean, seriously, does anyone value marriage anymore? What happened to those vows said before God and the gubment?

Politicians cheat. Celebrities cheat. You can find a cheater in damn near every walk of life. But WHY?

One of today's headlines is about John Edwards, a Senator from North Carolina. John Edwards, whose wife Elizabeth is dying of cancer, finally admitted to an affair he'd been denying. But according to him, he is not the father. I cannot imagine how his wife felt. Or kids.

Marriage has always been something so sacred to me (I'm still single) and something that I don't see myself falling into easily and/or quickly. It's something special and holy that I'd like to experience someday.

I watched that move with Diane Lane and Richard Gere (hawt!) "Unfaithful." What was she thinking cheating on Richard Gere first of all! But really, what was her reason? She was in a seemingly happy relationship.

I know I'm just rambling here, but I'm annoyed at how cheating is a subject that is mentioned and no one bats an eye! Whatever happened to the family?! In my opinion, if you've got some itches that need to be scratched, why not get 'em done at home? Are people getting married too soon? For the wrong reasons?

I have no idea.

You got issues!

2008-08-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

So this woman and I are friendly acquaintances. She's not in my close circle, but she's pretty cool...except one thing... She's a complainer.

Omg. A super complainer. she complains about her life. She complains about her kids. She complains about not having a man. She complains about her finances. She complains about the men she dates (sleeps with). She complains about complaining. She just. dammit. complains.

Somedays are good. Somedays, the complaining is kept to a minimum and we laugh and joke and all is well. Somedays are bad. I mean, those days she is in such a shitty mood due to her own complaining that she annoys/frustrates the hell outta me!

Oh. Lately, one of her biggest complaints is her financial situation. I hear about how much money she doesn't have. How her kids always need something. (Don't kids always though? Is that really something new?) How expensive it is to eat lunch...yadda yadda yadda. I mean really, currently, the average person is having the exact same problems she is. A couple days ago, we walk over to a food court for lunch, she "forgets" to bring her money. I think she expected me to pay for her. Umm, no.

Her next biggest complaint is being single. Based on what I can tell, ol' girl's a bit needy and I can see why she's single. She's also EXTREMELY promiscuous. She recently told me that she got it honest cause, check this out, her whole family is freaks. Even her grandma. Yep! Her grandma. Ugh! I shudder to think of anyone's Grandma gettin' her freak on!

I said all that to say, she's got issues!

I Know I haven't blogged much but...

2008-08-07T14:56:00.000-07:00

it's summer! I'm out trying to enjoy the last few days of it before the awful Chicago winter. I promise to stop neglecting you! =)

Love,

S

Fist Bump Frenzy

2008-07-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

Barack & Michelle Obama's much talked about fist bump

So what's the issue with the fist bump? What's the big idea? I mean, it's been done for YEARS!

Budweiser featured it in a commercial. When I was in high school, we did it to congratulate a fellow athlete for a job well done or a great play. Does that make me and Budweiser (one of America's favorite beers) terrorists? Does a mere play on the handshake mean that I am Anti-American?

The answer is: HELL NO!

But let a man named Barack Hussein Obama and his wife do it, and it's Al-Quaida.

This article in Slate describes some of the ways terrorist groups greet one another. And a fist bump, is not one of them.

I must say, that all of this controvery is quite ridiculous. Not one time has anyone really publicly questioned G. W. Bush's ties to Al-Quaida. Nope, he got elected a SECOND TIME. Boy, when we screw up, we do it big! We do it for the ages. Now here we have this man and his wife, who bring a brave, new hope to a country with a struggling economy and where its people really are depressed with all that is happening, and all the media outlets can do is nitpick and tear down something so trivial. Ugh! It makes me sick.

What is it about the Obamas that scares the right wing? Oh right! I forgot! His middle name. Gimme a break, people! There are many, many more important things affecting the American people, a popular "handshake" should not be one of them.

I'm about to go walk down the street and offer a fist bump to everyone I meet.

What happened to BET?

2008-07-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Seriously though? I remember when I was younger how much Black people loved BET... what happened? The quality of the programming is just awful. At least in my opinion, or am I just getting too old for it. I can't watch hardly any BET programming. I mean the quality is just horrible. If I turn to to my guide and see "Baby Boy" or "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" listed in the schedule for BET, I am going to scream! What ever happened to educating the masses? Whatever happened to Teen Summit? Remember when Teen Summit was a great educational and entertaining show for the youth. Whatever happened to BET being the go-to channel for the good R&B videos? Remember Video Soul?! Yeah boy! Sherry Carter and Donnie Simpson were THE homies! LOL!

Nowadays when I turn to BET, there isn't really much on. Nothing with any content or substance at least. 106th and Park? They don't show the whole video and there's a bunch of teens screaming their heads off. That's cool for the kids. Not me though. The BET Awards? OMG. A hot mess. And why must it be shown in constant rotation once the show is over?! Sheesh!

So I say,

"Dear BET,

Bring back quality programming!!!"

Signed,

Until you do, I'm not watching! =(

Seat Spillage

2008-07-15T19:12:00.001-07:00

This is just a rant...

I take public transportation 5 days a week to work. I have one major gripe. I absolutely hate sitting next to fat people. You know who I'm talking about... the person who spills over into your seat then gets mad at you cause you're uncomfortable. Well yesterday I had the pleasure of sitting next to a man who not only spilled over into my seat, but he decided he was going to sit with his legs pretty far apart. It was the only available seat and I hate to stand for the whole half an hour. Well, it's pretty hard to balance your butt on the edge of a seat and read the paper while the train is moving and jerking you from side to side. It was right then, as I was sliding off the seat that I decided that I was gonna take back my seat!

SO I start pushing my way into my seat and he is forced to move over and close his legs some. He is not happy. So once I make my way to fitting my whole ass into my seat, he looks at me and says, "you should be more sensitive. maybe you should stand." WTF?! I look at him, smile and say, "No. YOU'RE being inconsiderate. Why should I be forced to stand so you can sit in TWO seats? Perhaps you should stand and allow another person to sit." He was pissed. I definitely made an enemy that morning. Oh well!

Before the Rainbow: Appreciate The Storm

2008-06-23T12:42:00.001-07:00

I was having a conversation with mom a few days ago about how many times the things we go through prepare us for our next trial. She was saying how oftentimes, God, yes God, is equipping us for what may come in our lives. It's up to us whether or not we decide to take heed. It's what Christians refer to as "free will."

This weekend, it stormed off and on repeatedly. It would storm for a bit, then the clouds would pass and there would be a beautiful rainbow left in place of the storm and everyone would bask in the beauty of it.

Today, Angie and I were iming about a rainstorm that had just passed where she works. She mentioned to me that she took pictures of the sky and the rain while it was storming. But she didn't take pictures of the rainbow. Hmmm.... that was deep to me. How? You wonder. Simple.

How often do we take the time to look at the storms in our lives? How often do we observe what's happening during the rain and thunder? I can answer both, probably never. But just like the people who were out trying to enjoy their weekend, as soon as the storm is over, we're quick to run out and get back into the sunshine and act as if the storm never happened. We need to be more thankful for the storms, without them, there'd be no rainbows.

Perhaps there's a lesson to be learned here, instead of just enjoying the rainbows of life, we should also appreciate the storm.

Stupid Is As Stupid Does...

2008-06-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

"The difference between genius and stupidity, is that genius has its limits."

"Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former."

--Albert Einstein

Yep. He said both of those. And boy was he right! I have come in contact with some really stupid people. Wait. I take that back. That's not nice. I've come into contact with people who do and/or say some really stupid things. And I just don't get it. Hmph. I won't even try to understand anymore.

Recession Depression

2008-06-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

I've been on the prowl for a new job for awhile now. Unfortunately, things aren't exactly looking up. The few jobs that are out there, don't pay well. Some are contract or temporary because employers don't want to be tied to a new employee at the moment. There isn't alot of money just "floating" around out there. Times are hard and getting harder.

I thought I'd found THEE perfect gig, but that didn't go the way I'd hoped either. I'm getting a little disgruntled/depressed with the present state of our economy. Let's take a look shall we?

We are concerned DAILY with the price of oil. At the end of last week, the price had hit $138.89 a barrel!!!

Gas prices are on the RISE. I've seen regular here in Chicago for $4.47 a gallon.

Unemployment rates are rising. People are being fired or laid off and companies are downsizing.

The war in Iraq is still waging.

And the levees are breaking...again.

What in the world is going on?!

Oh, I failed to mention the rising prices of groceries. A gallon of milk is almost $5. I can't imagine what it's like to grocery shop for an entire family of, let's say, 4. I've read articles about families with two incomes cutting back on eating meat due to high grocery costs.

We are in a terrible state, and possibly, headed to a more unfortunate one. Is anyone really prepared for this?

Fighting Fair

2008-06-17T14:32:00.001-07:00

I've been in a lot of arguments in my life. Many of them have been silly, petty arguments. You know the kind where in the midst of arguing, you've totally forgotten what you were mad for in the first place. Haha! Those are funny. Then there are other fights, where you just say whatever mean thing you can to hurt the other person. It's the kind of fight where the proverbial gloves come off and you punch below the belt.

But recently, I was in one of the latter. I mean, it was an awful fight. A fight so intense, that I felt drained and exhausted and miserable afterward. I couldn't get any sleep because I kept replaying it over and over in my mind. And this fight? Was definitely not a fair fight.

I mean we both said some REALLY mean and awful things. Some of them true but still hurtful. It was probably the worst argument I've ever been in. I think there should be rules to fighting. Because once you say whatever was on your mind, you can't take it back. Even if you make up, the things that were said still sit in the back of your mind. Almost waiting to be revisiting again. And they will be. The next time you're pissed. Does it ever really end?

How does one bounce back from an awful, unfair, battle of tongues?

She Just Doesn't Understand

2008-06-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

Warning: The following is a touchy subject and can arouse some irritated, angry, and frustrated feelings. Please be advised.

A longtime male friend of mine is having some problems, but these aren't petty problems. No. These are problems with his life. The thing is, he recently discovered he's Black.

Let me repeat that: He recently. Discovered. He's Black.

No, I don't mean that literally. But apparently he was going through life in a bubble. Now I love my friend dearly, as if he were my brother, but this is something I think he brought upon himself. He is a college educated brotha, who is now a teacher. He's a former football player. He's a great, Christian guy. I know his parents, he's good people. He met, fell in love with, and married a white woman. (I have no problem with this. This is not the issue.)

Lately though, he's been experiencing some, for lack of a better term, "racial" things in his life. He's being mistreated and discriminated against. And his wife just doesn't get it. She doesn't understand. She can't relate. As you probably guessed, this is creating a bit of a quandary for my guy. He loves his wife. He wants her to understand his plight, yet she doesn't. She sympathizes. I believe what he is looking for is though, is EMPATHY.

I have no advice for my friend. On one hand, I feel like, he walked into the marriage thinking everyone should be okay with him and their relationship simply because they were in love. I feel like he wanted life to be a fairy tale and he should wake the hell up. But it saddens me that he has to experience this. Nobody should have to face discrimination. It's unfair. On the other, I feel like he's getting his just desserts. I've heard said friend say some pretty foul things about why he won't date/marry a black woman. Karma is a b*tch.

Yeah, I said it. I have a problem with that. That. Sh*t. Right. There? That irks the hell outta me. Just because you choose to date someone who isn't Black, why you gotta dog the sistas? Is your mama NOT Black? Why does your reason for dating a non-Black woman have to be filled with negative opinions of Black women?! Someone explain this to me, please.

Thoughts?

House Guests

2008-06-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

It's the time of year when house guests came to visit. Summertime. Summer in Chicago brings friends and family from everywhere to enjoy all the great, free things that Chicago has to offer. The thing about house guests is, you love to see 'em come, LOVE to see them leave.

Especially when you're like me. I'm the type of person who doesn't like disarray. I don't like for people to touch my things. I can't stand when people seem to make a mess in every room they enter, and then leave the mess behind. I don't like for people to use things without asking, my house is not a hotel, those personal things in the bathroom are NOT free and are not for you to use. Stay outta my cabinets, out from under my sink. And most importantly, GO SOMEWHERE. Don't spend all day chillaxing around my crib!

I think there is a reasonable time for people to visit. In my PERSONAL opinion, 3-4 days is just enough time for me to still like you. Anything more is just excessive. I mean, I don't visit my own family for longer than that unless absolutely neccessary. Please allow me to MISS YOU!

Unfriendly Skies

2008-06-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was on a Southwest flight from Cleveland to Chicago. I was flying alone so it was much easier to find a seat. I spot an aisle seat in the 7th row and I dash for it! SCORE!

Wrong! I ended up sitting next to a man who doesn't fly much and he decided he wanted to talk my ear off. I was trying to read my Elle magazine... in peace. It was a night flight so the rest of the plane was pretty quiet. Except ol' Yappy to my left. For 45 minutes, he looked like a nervous 10 year old. Asking random questions, wringing his hands, twiddling his thumbs, and pretending to read a book.

I was desperately trying not to be rude, but this month's issue of Elle is just too interesting! (Go get it and we'll talk) Finally, I just started to ignore the guy. I couldn't take it anymore.

Next time, I'll sit in the back and wait 15 minutes to deplane. LOL.

Friends Don't Let Friends...

2008-06-02T19:13:00.000-07:00

wear bad weaves. The picture above was taken last night at the O'hare blue line. I know it's a little blurry, but if you look closely, you can see her track of weave showing. hehehehe

My boyfriend suggested that I tell her. But I didn't. Afterall, that situation could've turned out badly. What if I told her and she thought I was trying to be funny and snapped. No thanks. I'm cool. If she didn't think to check her hair, and no one she knew (she's a flight attendant based on her dress) decided to tell her, then hey! who am I?

What would you have done?

The Lady on the bus goes...

2008-05-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

PEE PEE! =(

Yuck.

Eww.

Blech.

Gross.

Disgusting.

Gah!

I just checked my messages and I received a call from my BFF Sierra. Background: Sierra and I tend to call each other to discuss other people's horrid fashion sense (wedges with cropped pants? NO!), their awful hair (wearing your hair so it looks like a bird's nest? Not cute.), and lastly, events that happen on CTA. And in this message, she told me how she witnessed a woman on the CTA who WASN'T homeless (please note: being homeless does not excuse it, but we're making a point here), but was on her way home from work, lift up the handicapped/disabled seat and proceed to pee underneath it. What the?!

As soon as I finish this blog I am going to call Sierra. She sounded absolutely traumatized. But who wouldn't be? And this? This is exactly what is wrong with taking CTA. Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for taking public transportation to combat rising gas prices, to eliminate pollution, avoid paying for parking, and all the other environmental and socially conscious reasons for it. BUT--- many of CTA's riders don't "respect" the mode of transportation. They pee on it. **insert cringe here** They throw their garbage on the floors. Spill beverages and leave the floor sticky. Ugh! It's awful and unsanitary. I find myself really using my Crabtree & Evelyn Citrus Hand Sanitizer (coincidentally, Sierra gave this to me) for all it's worth!

I really don't have a message, this is just my rant. I am standing on my soapbox! But seeing as though I feel the need to send a message, here it is:

"DON'T PEE ON THE TRAIN/BUS! If you have to go, get off at the next stop, and go to a public restroom!"

April Showers Bring May... Cold Weather?!

2008-05-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

It's killing me that it's so cold. I mean, really, REALLY cold. I'm wearing my uggs and a long grey sweater... with a scarf. (Oh! and super cute dangly silver hoops and silver bangles. I'm gawgeous, in case you missed my point!) It's freakin' COLD! But apparently, many Chicagoans are determined to "live Spring" anyway. I mean, there are flip flops everywhere! WHAT are these people thinking?!

Which reminds me...

Wanted: Simple Black Flats

So, why is it so hard to find a decent pair of black flats? I wear a size 8. Common right? But I just can't find a simple, understated, classy flat! <--- Is that too much to ask? Apparently. If you know of a great place to look, let me know! Help a sista out!

Can you spare some change, pretty young thang!?

2008-05-19T17:09:00.000-07:00

So today I'm walking down the street when I approach a homeless guy sitting on a crate begging for change. As I get closer he starts talking to me...

Homeless Guy: "Heeeey girrrrl! You shol' is a pretty young thang!"

(I lower my head and pretend I didn't notice)

HG: "Hey! oooohweeee! You are so fine! A fine black woman! Can I go with you?"

SAAAAY WHAAAAA?! Is he really hitting on me while begging for change?!

Me: (shakes head) "uh, thanks but no thanks."
HG: "Well can you spare some change?"

Obviously, I just keep it moving. But seriously, what would make this dude think that in THIS lifetime, he'd have a chance? I mean, he clearly can't call me. If I wanted to talk to him, what would I do, just walk down Madison in hopes of running into him panhandling in front of FruitFlowers? I can't go visit him at home (duh! he's homeless!). And I definitely couldn't bear his smell long enough to have a date. I mean, come on, taking a shower and having a place to live are pretty high on the list of must haves in a man.

Did he really think me, in all my freshly washed hair, clean and stylish clothes, intact shoes, and home-dwelling fabulousness would actually give him anything other than spare change? I shiver at the thought.

Anyway, this leads me to a thought I've had many times before when approached my guys who clearly aren't my type...

Don't men realize when they're barking up the wrong tree?

I am firm believer in the fact that people know who's in their league and who's not. Can someone please explain to me how *some* (not all, that'd be wrong of me to assume) men think that they just have the priviledge to hit on any and every woman. No dude. If you don't have a college degree, then you don't apply for a job that requires one, right? Same rule applies.

( I sound like such a damn snob. Oh well!)

"The Complaint Department is now Closed."

2008-05-16T17:14:00.000-07:00

It occurred to me, that some people in life are just complainers. They complain about the weather, the street, their neighbors, their car, the wind, the water...well, you get my point. I know that complaining is just a part of human nature. We're all guilty of a little complaining, but some people take it too far. There comes a point when complaining is pointless. The more you complain, the easier it becomes for you to find something to complain about. In my opinion, complaining is merely negative thoughts coming to the surface, and sometimes, it's just a person sharing their observations.

We all know people who complain-- this is dedicated to those who do it too damn much! Quite frankly, I am sick (!!!) of getting phone calls from friends and family that are filled with Nothing. But. Complaints. WHY are you calling me to complain? Unless the issue is directly related to me, how in the hell do you expect me to fix it anyway? And most importantly WHY are you wasting my time? The time that I spend listening to complaints, could be spent... well, not listening to them!

I have a few words of advice for all the complainers out there:

1. Don't call me. Unlike Fraiser, I'm NOT listening.
2. Learn to think a little more positively.
3. Be proactive --- if you have a problem, try to find a solution.
4. If you're not going to do anything about the issue, then shut up about it.
5. If you really need to talk to someone, seek therapy. You aren't paying me by the hour.

Wouldn't it be great if we could program our phones to interrupt complaining callers with a message that says, "Sorry, the complaint department is now closed."?? Of course it would!

So, all my people who are tired of other people complaining, the next time someone is droning on and on with their damned complaining, interrupt them and say, "SHUT THE HELL UP!"

Bwahahahahaha.

The Hunt for Red Hot Jobs!

2008-05-15T14:06:00.001-07:00

That's what I'm on! I've grown a bit tired of my current position and would like to find something a lil for fulfilling. Afterall, I'm 25. It's about time I got myself together and found something that not only pays the bills, but something I'm good at and something I don't mind waking up to do. "How hard can it be?" you ask. VERY.

First, this economy sucks. Employers who may need help, are holding off on hiring someone for as long as possible because they don't know what's going to happen from one day to the next. Emotions are high right now when money is mentioned. Ugh.

Second, I'm overqualified (or too snotty) to do some of the jobs that are available. Woe is me.

Anyway, I've spent everyday (well, M-F) applying for jobs to no avail. Something's gotta give!

Please send help!

Best. Boyfriend. EVER!

2008-05-12T11:10:00.001-07:00

or, I should call this, "Fattest Text Message Ever"

Last night, I sent my boyfriend "E" (he asked me to keep his name outta my blog! Ha!) a text message:

From: Shakeia SweetCheeks =)

To: Best Boyfriend Ever

"I love you. Bring home cupcakes."

So, after almost 12 hours of slaving for the unappreciative "man," my boyfriend walks into our apartment with Jewel's Oreo cupcakes! He rocks!

But I should probably seek help for my cupcake addiction, huh?

Umbrella, ella, ella, EH!

2008-05-12T10:56:00.000-07:00

I participated in the Y-ME Race to Empower yesterday. It was more like the Y-Me Race to Shower! (*rimshot!* yeah, I'm lame. I know.) It rained soooo hard and sooo long. At one point it seemed as if the rain was slapping me in the face. It was hard, torrential, painful... RAIN. BUT, there was still plenty of "entertainment" nearby.

Yep, you guessed it! Stupid never takes a vacation--- it doesn't even pause... for the cause. (*crickets?* Laugh, dammit.) There were people out there in the freezing cold and rain... with their babies! Parents were pushing strollers with babies in them. Why?! What would possess them to bring their precious bundles of love and cuddly joy out in that kind of weather? Insane. I imagine dealing with a sick baby/toddler is far worse than missing the walk/run, so what was their motivation? Isn't that child endangerment?!

(Kudos! to the mom and dad with the cool insulated stroller that looked like a tent on wheels! and a Gah! to the parents who simply had their children in strollers that amounted to a regular Graco with a rain poncho over it.)

Today, well, today isn't so bad, but it isn't so great either. The weather is much nicer. A sunny but cool 60 degrees. But, I'm uber sleepy and can barely keep my eyes open even as I type this post. Due to being soaked in my efforts to still support the cause, I am now sick. Sore, scratchy throat. Watery eyes. Achy body. I have all the symptoms listed in a Nyquil commercial. Too bad Americans don't have mandatory nap time in the workplace! (Whomever can make this a law, I'll sing your praises forever!)

Sleepily,

S

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say it to all the moms I know out there! No one in the world could take the place of a mom.

Love ya!

Shakeia

PSA: Feet

2008-05-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

This is a Public Service Announcement!

With summer on the way, and spring making appearances lately, some people have started to prematurely wear sandals. Personally, I prefer to wait until the second week of June in Chicago to start wearing my pretty sandals and flipflops. BUT, if you're going to wear sandals, here's some advice for you - make sure your feet are "sandal ready!" No one wants to look at your ugly feet! So stop walking around here with feet like Fred Flintstone!

A few suggestions:

(1) Lotion. - Moisturizing your feet can do you a world of good. Not only are they easier on the eyes, but softer to your touch. You're welcome.

(2) a Pumice stone - don't own one? Pick one up at your local drugstore. Use it in the shower. Your feet will thank you.

(3) clippers - please trim those claws from your feet! You are not an eagle! (LOL)

(4) Proper shoe size - (a) Yes, yes, I know. You're a size 8. BUT normal sizes don't always apply with sandals. Your feet tend to slide forward causing your toes to hang over... go a size or half-size bigger. Trust me, when your feet hang over your shoes, it's definitely a BAD look! (b) if your heel is hanging off, I hate to tell you but, you're. wearing. the wrong. size!

(5) Pedicures - a girl's (or a boy's) best friend. A good pedicure can work wonders for your feet! Not only is it relaxing to sit in a massage chair while someone works and kneads your feet, ankles, and calves, but it will help make your feet more aestically pleasing.

(6) Wash your feet! Soap and water can go a long way!

These few tips, will aid you in the beauty of your feet and help avoid the ridicule you'll face on the streets!

This public service announcement has been brought to you by my eyes, who finally regained proper sight after seeing some hideous feet in line today.

"Talking White"

2008-05-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

You know? That's what some black people say to other black people who have taken full grasp of the english language and use it properly in everyday speech. (Look at how classy I made that soound!) What's that about?!

Since when is it a put-down, or a diss to say that someone speaks properly? In my book, it never has been. I remember being told, as a child, by classmates and such, "you talk white!" One day, I told my mom who said, "You don't talk white. You speak proper English, there's a difference. And don't give white people that much credit." (No offense.) Ha! Mom was right!

I just think it's sad and silly when I see and hear things like, "dat", "dey", "dere", and "da" from younger people. Is that what our tax dollars are paying for in the education system? I shudder at the thought.

So, with that, I beg of you, no, I implore you...

speak proper English, it's good for your future,

and stop saying that speaking properly is "talking white"!

Win, Lose, or Draw?

2008-05-05T23:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a woman who shaves her eyebrows off, then draws them back on? WHAT IS THAT ABOUT? !

Seriously, I don't get it! Shave off, draw on. Is that what your personal Mr. Miagi tells you when it comes to your beauty regime? What happens in one's mind they make this decision? Does it just happen? Do you get bored? Do your eyebrows bother you that much? If they do, this is a sign of a problem that you should probably seek help for as opposed to shaving off your brows? No wax in your neighborhood? No threader? Hmmm...

I've been told by one shaver-drawer, "my eyebrows just grow in so thin. i mean, they are transparent." my response, "oh, ok. but maybe you should draw them evenly next time." (all I could think of. sorry.)

Another woman, actually is bass ackwards. She shaves her brows off, but leaves her mustache. WHAT?!, you ask. Yes, you read it right. I'll repeat it for you. SHE. SHAVES HER BROWS. BUT LEAVES. HER MUSTACHE. :faint: I didn't ask for an explanation, the shock wouldn't let me. Someday.

So, I wonder, what happens if these people are in a hurry? What happens if you run out in such a hurry, you forget to draw them on? Do you spend the hours until you draw, expressionless? Do your eyes just look all bald and beady? Ewww. I shudder at the thought.

Eyebrows are important. They actually serve a purpose and aren't meant to be shaved off all willy nilly. Eyebrows prevent moisture, mostly salty sweat and rain, from flowing into the eye, among other things. See? Bet you didn't know that. Ha! People without eyebrows: 0; Me: 1.

This speech brought to you by: the good people at Jagermeister. Without whom, I would not have been awake now to share this useless information with you after watching a Will & Grace rerun.

The More You Know! **insert rainbow and star**

Love,

Shakeia

Kid Stuff

2008-05-04T18:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I spent the whole day out shopping with friends. It was wonderful! I found some great deals! (Of course I got shoes, two pair actually =)

But as it got later, and we were walking the remaining what seemed to be miles of the outlets, we started to notice groups of teenagers. I mean, LOTS of teenagers. The mall started to look like a high school around 7 o'clock. There were guys with baggy jeans, designs cut into the sides of their heads, and rubber bands around the bottoms of the jeans. There were girls with tight tees and even tighter jeans, ponytails, and makeup that looked as if they had come from a clown convention. All of them talking as loudly as possible. Most of them acting like fools. After I watched some kid wearing his pants so far under his buttcheeks that we could see his bare @ss. Ugh! I kept wondering, "what is wrong with these damn kids!?" I found myself resisting the urge to take off my belt and hand out some much needed @ss whoopings.

Then it dawned on me... it's not the kids. It's the parents. Parents were dropping their teens and tweens off at the mall and leaving them there to "hang out" and meet up with friends. The problem is that these kids are UNSUPERVISED.

So because of those irresponsible parents, the rest of us couldn't enjoy our shopping experience. And they weren't even shopping! Just roaming the halls of the mall, kicking, screaming, playing, hugging, kissing, chatting, texting, and getting in my damn way. These few are the next wave of adults. Needless to say, I. CAN'T. WAIT.

So, with that said, I hope that those of you that are reading this with kids are raising them to not be little @ssholes and heathens with no home-training. I hope that you are teaching these kids to be the next great leaders of the world. The next doctors, and lawyers, and teachers, etc. If you aren't, please keep them out of my damn mall!

May Day!

2008-05-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it's May 1st... and 70 degrees in Chicago! We usually have to wait until the 2nd week of June for this! and boy! the smokers are out with a vengeance! There are so many smokers standing in the alley next to my office building, it looks like a full fledged party, with a cloudy haze of smoke above it of course!

Moving on, I have a couple "issues" on my mind this morning.

First, Jeremiah Wright, SIT DOWN! ----->
I just don't get it anymore, wait, I never got it. I understand that he's got some pretty strong feelings, but do we need him to be on tv all week, preaching his own philosophies? Nah. We've got enough issues. What I'd like to know is, who in the hell were those people APPLAUDING him? Were they listening to what he was saying? I was embarrassed FOR HIM. I've been sitting back and watching the madness that this election has become and it's disheartening to see that Obama's now former pastor, is in the spotlight! I mean, C'MON AMERICA! To borrow from Spike Lee's School Daze, "WAAAAAAAAAAKE UUUUUUUUP!"

Next, I think Hillary is kinda cool sometimes, BUT, I don't believe that watching Hillary Clinton try to buy a cup of coffee at a gas station in Indiana is news. I mean, yeah, she couldn't work that machine. She looked like she was having a hard time. But it's not news to me. Afterall, she's worth millions. After the clip was done playing for the 2nd time, I looked over at my boyfriend and said, "I bet she threw it out after she left. I bet she said, 'driver, take me to Starbucks, STAT!'" Hehehehe

Third, John McCain looks like Quagmire from Family Guy. I'm serious. Click the links, I've got proof!

"You People"

2008-04-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

I was recently referred to in conversation, by a white woman, as "you people"... WTH? So, I replied, "what exactly do you mean by 'you people'?" Immediately, she began to stumble all over herself to "fix" it.

Her remedy: "Shakeia, I didn't mean it that way. Not the way you took it. I would never say anything like that. To you."

Hmph. To me. It rang out in my head as if someone had put a pot over it and started beating it. She would never say anything like that... to me. Does that mean she'd say it, just not so I could hear her? Probably so.

(Oh, I should probably inform you that this conversation began with her discussing the differences in the way black people celebrate vs. the way white people celebrate. Oh wait. Let's not get into racism. I'd be typing for ages.)

Fast forward to today, this came up again, only because it was never properly addressed. Still no apology. She knows she said it. She knows it was offensive. Yet, has not owned up to her very own words. Instead, she keeps reminding how much she "respects me as a person and professional."

Accountability? Is that a new thing? Apparently so. What is it with people not manning/woman-ing up to what they said or did? In my perfect little world in my mind, people should and would be accountable. I mean, whatever happened to integrity, dignity, all that good stuff?

Ahh, the days of yore.