I'm not answering the phone today. I will not answer the door. I need this day to myself. So tomorrow I can soar.
I want to reminisce on 2007.
Sort through the lessons and file them on the shelf. I want to meditate and recreate. I want to reconnect with my inner-self .
I need healing energy for the coming new year, to energize and renew my body, my mind, and my spirit. No one else's woe can help me today, Cause when I hear, I have to live it.
And I don't mind, not usually. Hey, you got a problem, you can use me. But not today, cause today's my day. My baby's upstairs, Zion and Sampson are around, And my Mighty Master's beside me.
He needs this time alone with me to work on me and mine. I am a recluse for just this day, But tomorrow I will shine.
And once I'm brightly shining, I'll have so many rays to share. So please, let me be for just...this...day,
and tomorrow I'll be there.
Peace, Love, & Light, Vee
-original poem written by Vee May 3, 2003 -edited today! -current mood - Reflective
Is anyone as happy as I am about the Sex and the City Movie? I absolutely loved this show. I loved the theme music. I loved the characters. I adored the men in their lives. I loved the fashion, the busy day to day humdrum - which was never humdrum, by the way, the chance meetings while sitting outside some trendy breakfast eatery, and the ambiance of big city night life. Being I'm a Georgia girl, I lived vicariously through these women. And I most enjoyed the realness of it as the ladies allowed us to catch a glimpse or two into the wonderfully complicated and most times, chaotic lives of single women in the new millennium. Not to mention seeing which guest celebrity was going to be on this week. And they were as varied as the plots themselves, ranging from the mayor of New York, to well-known actors/actresses, high fashion models, famed dancers, and the list goes on.
For me, I don't really have a favorite show these days. Girlfriends is the closest I've come. And don't get me wrong, I love that show too. I always call it, "West Coast Sex and the City with a little brown sugar." But for the most part, whatever I happen to catch when I turn on the TV and scroll the million and one channels is what I watch. I can never remember which night that show that made me laugh so hard came on last week, and so I miss it. Or either I'm working. And sometimes - and this is the most heartbreaking - I may actually realize a good show is coming on that night, but fall asleep before I get to see it.
I know, I must get TiVo!
But anyway, that was never the case during the Sex and the City Days. Sunday nights were mine and mine alone. If I was off, I had a set ritual to prepare myself for my wonderful date with my dreamy HBO "Lovah!" Only true Sex and the City fans will catch this one and say it right. If I was working, and back in those days I worked day shift, getting off at 7:15pm with a 30-minute drive home, I'd make sure I got off in time to make it home by 8. I was like a kid on Saturday morning watching cartoons with my hands in the cookie jar. I wouldn't answer the phone. And you dare not ring my bell. Not until HBO had kissed me goodnight and said those magic words, "Stay tuned for scenes from next week's episode!"
So no one was more thrilled about the talk of the Sex and the City movie. I have to admit, I didn't really believe it at first, but was still thrilled by the thought. Then when the day came and I knew it was really going to happen, all the talk came about Kim Cattrall not being on board. OMG! What was Sex and the City without Samantha? I know Sarah Jessica was the star, but it just would not have worked without Kim. Can you say peanut butter and jelly without the jelly? I can. Give me something to drink already, before I choke! Good, but kinda dry.
Sex and the City is coming to the big screen in a feature film adaptation of the hit HBO television series. The film will follow the continuing adventures of the series' four main characters - Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda - as they live their lives in Manhattan four years after the series ended. Stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon are all on board to reprise their roles, while the film will be written and directed by Michael Patrick King, who was executive producer of the original television series. Additionally, Chris Noth, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, and Jason Lewis will return as the women's love interests. Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls) has also joined the cast of the film and will play Carrie Bradshaw's assistant, a new character to be introduced in the film. Sex and the City is scheduled for a May 30th release.
Take a look at the sneak preview.
Now if we could just get the Six feet Under movie underway, life would just be grand... hint, hint!
Hey you guys. I want to tell you about a girlfriend of mine who has started her own journey to health and fitness. She's decided to treat her body like the temple it was created to be. Her goal is to achieve optimal health by eating right, and feeding her body the fuel it needs to be as lively, active, and productive as possible. She's decided to go raw! It was a road she decided to take, and one I was actually thinking about taking myself after speaking to her one night. She got me thinking...which is exactly what her blog was intended to do. Her usage of word, her phrasing, it's like she's right there in the room with you just chatting away.
She's real, and she's deep. So go and check her out, if you dare to overstand and be enlightened!
I am both honored and very delighted to announce that this site is now officially a part of TheGRITS.com Virtual Book Tour, hosted by Marlive Harris. Being but one of many stops on this unique tour, we will be showcasing authors along with their literary works.
I just had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Francine Craft, author of Never Without You...Again. The multi-talented Ms. Craft is a national best selling romance writer whose novels have completely captured the hearts of her readers. After reading her latest treasure, I decided I wanted to know a little more about the lady behind the pages of,
Never Without You… Again
Vee: In the “Dear Reader” letter located in the beginning of your new release, Never Without You Again, you say that the story of Hunter Davis and Theda Coles has been in your head for a long time. How so and why is their story so special to you?
Francine: I have had especially good luck with a rekindled romance, so it remains solidly in my heart as an all time favorite. I think this is the major reason the story is so special to me.
Vee: Hunter Davis is a renowned photographer in this novel and you mention that photography is one of your hobbies. Tell us more about this hobby and how you incorporated it into this story.
Francine: I don't have as much time for photography as I've had in the past, but I still like to read the books on photography and study the photographs of masters and amateurs. I've taken some photos in my time that friends and those in the field have praised highly. Like so many people, I probably have a natural knack for it.
Vee: How have readers and reviewers responded to this new release so far?
Francine: Readers and reviewers have been wonderful concerning Never Without You....Again. I just got a notice that the book has sold out, which doesn't mean it isn't still very much on sale and available. Readers and reviewers have been more than kind, with many singing praise. This doesn't mean it doesn't have its detractors, but there haven't been many, and I think the late President Truman said it best: "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen."
Vee: Do all of your books contain a special message you want readers to grasp and understand?
Francine: I think all my books contain a message or messages: 1) Learn to trust yourself and others, whatever you do, and be discriminating about it, 2)Love and caring are so absolutely necessary to a good life.
Vee: What makes a good heroine and what qualities should a good hero have?
Francine: I think a heroine should be loving (or at least have the capacity to be), be caring and want to trust her heart. She is a good friend and a good lover. She is dedicated to finding the best that life has to offer and to lending what aid and assistance she can to others. A hero should have the same qualities, but men have been trained to hide these qualities under a macho mask.
Vee: What do you enjoy most hearing from your fans?
Francine: I just enjoy about everything I hear from my fans. I have been privileged to get some of the most warm-hearted, endearing letters you can imagine, and trust me I answer right away. I love it when fans identify with the characters in my books and when they write long letters and tell me about this or the other character. My own head is often chock-full of characters to come and I don't always instantaneously remember, but I'm charmed, pleased and just go into orbit when they do this. I also love it when fans suggest spin-offs and other books and I've been able to use a few of these. The personal touch is big with me; when someone says why on earth did you have so and so do such and such? I laugh out loud and think about it. And yes, I love good, constructive criticism and I think I develop from it. You didn't ask, but I'll tell you what I don't like and that's when someone takes off on me in a mindless, vindictive tear and without rhyme or reason picks something I've written to pieces. But hey, that's all a part of the game. You've got to learn early that you just can't win them all.
`
Vee: Well Ms. Craft, it has certainly been a pleasure talking with you. Thank you for stopping by.
` Francine: No Vee, thanks for having me and much love!
About the Author
Francine Craft is the pen name of this Washington, D.C. based writer who has enjoyed writing for many years. She has been writing romance since 1995 and has a total of 21 titles - 16 novels and 4 anthologies. Never Without You . . . Again is her latest Kimani Romance release. Visit her online at http://www.francinecraft.com/ or www.myspace.com/francinecraft for more information.
Never Without You . . . Again by Francine Craft is available wherever books are sold!
Hey you guys and welcome to The 100 Day Reality Challenge! Just wanted to tell you about some wonderful friends of mine and what they're doing. They are the co-founders of the now phenomenal '100 Day Reality Challenge.' Meet Sandy, Laura, & Lilou.
Co-Creating Our Reality
These woman are absolutely awesome! They are challenging and inspiring others to challenge themselves and find their own inspiration in order to take charge and become active participants in creating their own realities for today and tomorrow. If you've been following this blog or any other blog of mine, you know I believe in self-empowerment. I believe in the power of believing in yourself. And I believe in you. "It doesn't matter what you're doing today, but tomorrow is up to you! So live like today is your last, dream like you have forever, and work on fulfilling the promises you've made to yourself! You will be surprised by what you will accomplish".--Vee Jefferson (Jowaje Philosophy)
If you have been procrastinating, now is the time to get started. So grab your web cam and get started on this amazing journey that will empower you daily!
The women of CCOR have been getting so many inquiries on exactly what they did during their first 3 seasons that they've created an amazing tool to help you in your next 100 Days. They have just completed a comprehensive, 130 page workbook to guide you through your 100 Day Reality Challenge. Here you will find a complete list and full descriptions of all of their practices and ideas to get you started, including journaling prompts, inspiring daily quotes and a daily log/journal to track your entire experience.
Wow! Now that's quite a deal.
Click here if you would like to download the 130 page workbook immediately and start Co-Creating right away!
But remember, participation is completely free.
You DO NOT have to purchase the book in order to participate.
~
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Attitudes of a Co-Creator & Daily Affirmations
I am a Co-Creator, I transform my life
I am a Co-Creator, I inspire others
I am a Co-Creator, I create wealth and abundance
I am a Co-Creator, I expand my awareness
I am a Co-Creator, I am confident in my ability to design my life
I am a Co-Creator, I manifest
I am a Co-Creator, I love
I am a Co-Creator, I inspire
I am a Co-Creator, I lead
I am a Co-Creator, I contribute
I am a Co-Creator, I dream
I am a Co-Creator, I serve
I am a Co-Creator, I am grateful
I am a Co-Creator, I Shine
I am a Co-Creator, I create my life
I am a Co-Creator, I play
I am a Co-Creator, I laugh
I am a Co-Creator, I deserve to live the life of my dreams
I am a Co-Creator, I am worthy
I am a Co-Creator, I am prosperous
I am a Co-Creator, I give and receive
I am a Co-Creator, I powerfully complete The 100 Day Reality Challenge
If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming issue of Succeed Magazine, send us your story and how the 100 day challenge has impacted your life! You can also email them to: succeed@cocreatingourreality.com.
Congratulations to all of you that have 'completed powerfully' the 100 Day Challenge.
You are a true inspiration of what is possible in life!
Exciting New Features From Our Affiliate at Amazon.com: Watch thousands of high quality movies and TV shows from NBC, CBS, Fox, Showtime, Starz, the WB, and more for you to purchase or rent at such a discounted rate, it's nearly free. You can view these downloadable videos on PCs, Portable Media Players, or TiVo DVRs. And our movie downloads are released at the same time as DVD, so you can watch hits like Spider-Man 3 or Fantastic Four: Silver Surfer as soon as they are available on Amazon.com.
Amazon now also has an MP3 store, so downloading DRM-free music is as easy as 1-2-3.
There are links also located in the sidebar to the left, so you can come back and watch as many movies or TV shows, or download as much music as you like.
*Note: Having trouble viewing the player?
The players will not function properly if Adobe Flash 9 is not installed on your computer. If you are still experiencing difficulty, try installing this application and try again. You can find the update here.
And Don't Forget About the Music!
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This past month has truly been one of the longest in my life. And how ironic that for the most part, it spanned the entire month of October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
I just had my very own brush with breast cancer. Recently I'd returned from a trip to Sedona, Arizona during the wee hours of September 25th . My friends and I had almost missed several flights - sometimes through no fault of our own - but the thing that worried me most on the trip back was the possibility of missing my doctor's appointment the next morning. Well actually the same morning. I was scheduled for a complete physical, and of course I'd written down everything that was important for me to remember to tell my doctor. #1 being the lump I'd found behind my left nipple.
Being that I'm a nurse, I knew that I had a few things going for me. First of all was my age. I'm a young, healthy woman with no family history of breast cancer. Secondly, I'd found this thing early through breast self exam. Surely those things had to be worth something...right? No! Not at all.
Being that I'm a nurse, I also knew that none of these things meant a hill of beans. Not really. I've seen women much younger than me die from breast cancer. And I've seen quite a few exception patients who were the first in the family to be diagnosed with some horrid disease or condition, who would later become someone else's family history case. Man, this was truly a scary time for me.
So anyway, the morning after getting back from Arizona, I was in my doctor's office bright and early. After the very thorough interview, I pulled out my list of concerns. I told her about the "blockage" I'd found. She did all the usual checks and screenings (pelvic exam, pap smear, breast exam, blood work, blah, blah, blah - yada, yada, yada). She then called in another doctor to examine the breast in question. The one in which the nipple was bigger than the other, and had the sometimes bloody discharge. I know, gross right?
Needless to say, I left her office with an appointment with Radiology for a mammogram, and an appointment for the cancer clinic to see the oncology doctor -all scheduled for the very next week. Wow, they moved fast. I didn't know if this was cause for alarm or if they were just very efficient. All I knew was that I was scared out of my mind.
That next week I went for my mammogram, which led to an ultrasound, to only be told what I already knew. There was something in one of the ducts of my left breast. The scary thing was that they couldn't tell me what it was. I'd found a couple lumps in my breast in the past, and actually scheduled to see an oncologist myself. And although no doctor will actually diagnose until after the pathology report, I still left the office with an unofficial diagnosis of fibroadenoma, which is a benign breast lump that is easily treated by excision of the lump in a procedure known simply as a breast biopsy. The term biopsy alone is pretty scary, and most people automatically equate the word with cancer, but basically all they do is remove the "friendly" cyst or tumor and send it to pathology to confirm that it is, in fact, what they already suspected - a fibroadenoma.
And likewise, when the doctor suspects cancer, they can usually tell you this as well, or either they'll say something like, "Let's run some tests first." The radiologist plainly told me that there was something in the duct in my left breast, but that they couldn't see it well. She told me about a procedure called a galactogram, where they would insert a very narrow needle into my nipple and shoot some dye into it so they could see things more clearly.
Ooh yea! Sounds like fun, huh?
After the galactogram, with and without ultrasound, there was another mammogram. Then another galactogram (they didn't get enough of the dye into the duct the first time and needed to do it again). Then another mammogram. Finally the procedure was complete, and they informed me that I had something in one of the ducts of my left breast.
Oh yeah?You think?Okay, now tell me something I didn't already know.
Next it was back to the cancer clinic for my "cancer" doctor to tell me, "We see something in one of the ducts in your left breast." He said that I had a lot of things working in my favor, like my age and having no family history of breast cancer. Sound familiar?
Can you see how working in the health care field can actually get in the way of being optimistic sometimes? I'd spent all this time for them to tell me all these things I already knew - not once, but over and over again.I know I sound ungrateful. I really wasn't. I was just so worn out, frustrated, and scared. And I wasn't getting any unofficial good news. But at least I was pleasant the whole time.
Then he told me that that the duct should come out, and that there could be a "little" cancer in there, but that they wouldn't know until after surgery and the pathology report came back.
Yep, I knew that too.
So we scheduled surgery. It was going to be a two-parter. First another galactogram and then the actual surgery.
Trying to hold it together for my 3 year old son was probably the hardest. I wanted to prepare him for my surgery, but couldn't for the life of me figure out how I would prepare him if the news came back bad. I didn't know how to tell him that everything was going to be alright and risk the possibility of this being a lie. And so I just smiled and told him that mommy had a little problem, but that the doctor was going to fix it. And that it wouldn't hurt mommy, because mommy would be asleep. And then after a few days, mommy would be good as new.
Next came the pressure from the few friends that I did tell. Some were genuinely supportive, but others did that off-handed, rehearsed, and over-used, cliched bull crap that you get whenever something really horrible happens and they don't know what to say..."oh, you're going to be okay," or " It's probably nothing." The worst one I got was, "Well do you think it's serious?"
WTF?!!!
Just what I needed. Someone trying to minimize my emotions.
Okay, well anyway, this is not the time to dwell, right? Because my story does end wonderfully. I had another two procedures, very similar to the galactogram/mammogram. Well, it was actually the same procedure, except this time they used a blue dye so the surgeon would know exactly which duct to remove. I had the surgery and everything went perfectly. On October 26th, I went back to the cancer center for my follow-up and pathology report. All was clear. There was no sign of cancer, and I was absolutely thrilled. I felt like I'd been given a new lease on life and another chance to take better care of my body.
But after having this experience, I also wanted to share some things with my sisters out there. Black, white, yellow, red, we are all sisters and all the same. And I know this site is for "everything besides health," as I mentioned in the header, but I feel pretty strongly about this message.
We have to take care of our bodies. That means routine check-ups and self examination, as well as eating right, exercising, and giving up bad, unhealthy habits. We need to know our bodies as well as we know the backs of our hands. I know that we can't see everything as easily as we can see our hands, but that's what mirrors are for.
Get naked and get to know yourself. You know when I initially went to the doctor, she couldn't feel this "thing" that I was telling her about. No one could. Not the Radiologist, not the x-ray techs, and not even the Oncologist, which I've decided is actually very good thing. You should want to find things before they become so obvious that your can't miss them. Early is always better than later!
Find some privacy and good light, grab a mirror, and go exploring. Look at your breast from every angle, hands up, hands down, hands out to your sides. Put the mirror on the floor and then kneel over and notice how your breasts look. Next, lie on the floor on you back and hold the mirror above you. Notice how they look from that angle as well.
These are your breasts, the only ones that come with the original package. Don't be afraid of them. Don't be afraid to touch them and squeeze them. You automatically touch them when you shower and dress, but you need to touch them in such a way that you learn everything about them, every lump, every bump, every mole, every everything! Then you should take your time and feel each breast in it's entirety, applying gentle, even pressure in some kind of consistent, orderly fashion to assess for the presence of lumps and abnormalities. Take note of how your breast tissue feels. Also feel for anything unusual in and around your underarms and sides. (NOTE: See link at the end of this post to get video demonstration/instruction on how to do a breast self exam.) Once you're finished with the breasts themselves, move on to the the nipples.
Roll your nipples between your fingers and gently squeeze them. Actually pull out on them and feel those tracts that lead to your milk ducts. Notice how it feels to you and what happens when you do. Report any discharge to your doctor. This was actually how I found my abnormality. And the truth is, had I not breast fed my son and gotten use to manipulating my nipples in this way in order to bring the "let down" for expressing milk, this never would have been a part of my breast self-exam.
Okay, so you've got this breast self-exam thing mastered and you're doing it once a month, around the same time every month, right? Well now it's time, if you haven't already, to talk to your doctor about a mammogram. I started having mammograms pretty early, but that was because of my history of having had fibroadenomas in the past. But your doctor will tell you when you should start having them and how often. The good news is mammograms, although not 100% reliable, can find cancer that is too small to feel on self exam; mammograms are covered by most health insurances, sometimes 100% if done as a preventive care, wellness check; mammograms are not as painful as you may think, but cancer is; mammograms save lives. Most breast cancers, if caught early enough, are very treatable and have excellent survival rates.
Although I'm merely a breast cancer-scare survivor, I have met some wonderfully courageous breast cancer survivors. My pink ribbon goes up to them all.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and although I'm posting on the very last day, I'm hoping to still help spread the word and be a blessing to someone.
As I lay my head sideways upon his chest, nestled safely in the warmth and strength of his bosom, salty tears snake across my face -slithering, burning, searing my sensitive flesh.
I sob, I dab, I wipe. My finger, the pillow case, the sheets. But my muffled sniffling is in vain! I don't want him to know I'm crying. Oh but he does know.
He sees the dark cloud encircling me even in this darkness. He senses my sorrow in the air. He saw me pray. He feels it in the nonrhythmic rhythm of my breathing -and the uncontrolled twitching of my body. Thought I was being quiet, yet he hears me even in this silence.
He holds me, caresses me. Not exactly sure what to do, but instinctively does what I need him to.
He holds me, squeezes me, caresses me 'til my breathing once again matches his. Never once uttering a word. Never once searching for the tears, he gave me peace, reassurance, and serenity. He gave me him. He gave me love!
Job well done, he rolls over but continues to give reassuring pats. He lays his leg next to mine, touching 'til he slumbers off to sleep.
I need to write this down! If I get up will I wake him?
I'm thinking about you Momma, remembering this night three years ago. Remembering my thoughts, my feelings, your words, your face, your eyes. Watching you. So strong. Praying for you to softly slumber off to sleep, but secretly wishing you could stay with me.
I love this song. Van Hunt's pretty cool and I'm diggin' the music, but I'm posting this video because I want to give the guitar player to the right of Van a little coverage. His name is George "Paisley" Gordon, Jr. and he's awesome. I've been knowing this guy for over 10 years. He's a true musical genius, but whenever I try to Google him, I'm never happy or satisfied with the results. There's just not enough information about him in web land. Oh yeah, well okay, maybe some girl talking about how cute he is or how she threw her panties at him on stage. Oh geeze, give me a break already!
What about the man? What about the talent? What about the years of training and practice? What about the accomplishments?
"Paisley" has played and/or toured with several great artists including Parliament Funkadelic, The SOS band, Roger Troutman of The ZAPP band, and countless others. And now he's playing guitar for Mr. Van Hunt (On The Jungle Floor) himself. Maybe if I can catch this busy brother between gigs I can get an exclusive for you guys. But until then...
this one's for you Paise!
I'm so proud of you...
...So Everybody's been asking, "Where is Paisley?"
In the wake of the infamous Imus statement about the "nappy headed hos," new reasons for black women to become discontent with themselves and their body images were awakened. I'm a black woman, and my first question was, what exactly are they mad about? The fact that he called them nappy, or that this total stranger, who knew absolutely no more about their character than they knew about his before his statement, was calling them "hos?"
For the sake of humor, people - white and black alike - sometime use name-calling as their first device to color a story funnier than it would otherwise be. Now I'm not saying it's always appropriate, or always nice, but it does happen.
The most ironic part to me is that Imus is probably going to leave the whole ordeal bigger and better than ever. That is the American way isn't it? To be able to make the most out of and possibly even profit from a negative situation. Sure he may have lost his job, but believe me, we have not heard the last of him. Let's not let Imus have the victory all to himself.
I didn't leave that experience thinking that either of these wonderful, beautiful, and talented young women were in fact a whore. Imus didn't personally know any of them. But the truth is, the world does consider our hair to be nappy.
So what?
There is a royal and majestic aura in our naps and locks. So why not embrace it?
Hi. My name is Vee and I'm nappy and I'm proud!
But let me tell you, I found a sister who is not only educating others on appreciating the naturalness of black hair, but is also capitalizing on the beauty of her nappiness. She is Ms. Mireille Liong-A-Kong, author, speaker, host of GoingNatural.com, and founder of The Miss Nappturality Beauty Competition.
GoingNatural
The website http://going-natural.com/, created by Liong, celebrates the journey of women going back to their nappy roots. She is also the author of the book, Going Natural - How to fall in Love with Nappy Hair.
Mireille's Bio
Mireille grew up in Suriname and studied in the Netherlands. She left the city of Amsterdam for Brooklyn, New York in 2002. Holding a Master's Degree in Computer Science, she worked as an Implementation Manager in the Department of Prof. Services at an Internet Company before the big boom. An active player in corporate America, she too subscribed to the idea that she had to look the part in order to fit in and belong. And that meant straightening her hair. However, bad experiences with hair straightening chemicals motivated her to gather all the information she could on African Hair. What she learned not only freed her from herself, but liberated her forever. She then decided to teach others.
In 2003, Liong rewrote history by successfully debuting with the first Dutch book about African hair care. The first edition was sold out within two months. Today the website http://kroeshaar.com/, which was launched along with the book, is the most popular site on the topic of African hair in Dutch speaking countries like Holland and Suriname.
In 2004, Mireille self-published her second book, Going Natural - How to fall in Love with Nappy Hair and launched the site, going-natural.com. When she realized natural women didn't have a magazine of their own, she decided to turn the website into an Interactive I-magazine.
Thursday, September 06, 2007 Spoken Word Piece by Vee
I love him I love him I love him all the time, but I like him when he's...
...asleep!
He's beautiful He's beautiful He's oh so beautiful to me all the time, but he's absolutely gorgeous when he's...
...asleep!
yeah, I'm talking bout my baby, my baby boy, my little prince, my inspiration, my muse, and the biggest pain in the a$$ I've ever seen in my life!
He's the smartest, sweetest, wittiest, funniest little dude I've ever met. Got reasoning and deduction skills a lot of grown folks don't even possess. And did I mention he's the biggest pain in the a$$ I've ever seen in my life?
I do believe it is my privilege to say what I want to say about him, as long as I do what I'm supposed to do for him. To love, to nourish, and to nurture him.
You see, I love him more than words can explain. I live for him, and I'd die for him. I'd punch a monster in his eye for him.
I mean, he's my baby! my heart, my amazing and splendid gift from God. And oh yeah, in case I didn't mention, the biggest pain in the a$$ I've ever seen in my life?
You see, only a person who really loves someone can get away with saying something as crude as this and still have people understand how big the love is.
But make no mistake about it. I'm the only one who can say it. "See, I's the one that birthed that baby!"
I was the one who was up all night, sleep deprived, crazy, and looking a fright. I was the one there with the runny noses, the scrapes and bruises, the fevers, the painful tooth buds, and the nurses with the needles.
H#!!, I breast fed him so long he was walking 'round talkin' bout, "I want some momma nuke!" couldn't say momma milk in the beginning, so momma nuke just kinda stuck.
See, during the hours while he's awake,
I'm constantly talking and explaining, correcting and persuading,
pleading and begging, bargaining and threatening.
yelling and fussing, spanking and sometimes even cussing...
....then embarrassed when I take him to his doctor's appointment, we're sitting out in the lobby, he picks up a half dragon, half donkey character from the movie Shrek and says, "What the h#!! is this?!"
Uhh, my bad! And no, I didn't spank him for that. I quickly, but politely answered him, "That's a dronkey baby," so as to not give him the chance to ask that question again.
But on a more positive note,
I'm also singing and dancing playing and laughing
story-telling and teaching imagining and make-believing,
ABCing and 123ing, I'm telling you, it can be quite overwhelming.
But when he slows down long enough to fall asleep, and I can really see this little person whom I've co-created, ...actually see the work I've done,
I can see his beauty, I can see his blessings, I can see his purity and innocence, And I can see his love, all magnified to the brillionth, billionth power.
And I think about all the sh*! we've been through on just that day alone. Nothing seems as big or as bad as it did earlier. I find my patience gets a little longer everyday. I find that I'm not as quickly irritated as I was the day before. And most importantly, I find myself realizing that I'm getting a little better at this motherhood thing every day that Jordan schools me.
And I look at him, mouth slightly ajar, light snore echoing in the background. I see his chest rise and fall in perfect synchronicity. I look at his belly button in awe of how it all began. I marvel at this picture of pure perfection. I see all that beauty and I realize...
Yeah, I love him all the time, and like him when he's asleep, but what I really and truly adore most is the moment he first opens his eyes in the morning.
And I say, Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for my baby!
Marlive Harris THE GRITS DOT COM Literary Services Dallas, TX US Owner/ Virtual Press Agent Division of The MOTH Group, LLC 2004 - Present
Marlive is the founder and business owner of TheGrits.com, a reading and web publicity service, dedicated to the promotion of classic and contemporary literature for readers and writers of all ages.
Their reading communities for adults and children at thegrits.com collectively consist of author interviews, book reviews, reading guides, book club listings, and interactive elements such as author chats, email book discussion, virtual book tours and virtual book parties. Their book promotion services design book campaigns tailored to fit the author's special interests, talents, books, and readership.
Besides all the wonderful things TheGrits.com has to offer on their site, they are also truly unselfish when it comes to informing their readers about different opportunities for them to gain experience, exposure, and possibly even monetary compensation for their contributions to the literary world. Marlive is one of my myspace friends, and she often posts bulletins that are both interesting and informative. She believes in spreading the word about other quality sites, and at the same time offering valuable information to writer hopefuls and veteran writers alike, of the different writing opportunities available. So I decided to get on board and join her.
So check out these sites for some exciting opportunities and/or platforms to publish your work. (Originally posted by Marlive on www.myspace.com/thegritsdotcom)
Kids' Pages Family Magazine is Colorado's premier family publication addressing the needs of families with children aged newborn through high school. The magazine offers a well-informed, local and relevant perspective on issues affecting families. Kids' Pages Family Magazine informs, educates, entertains and inspires parents, children and the community.
Kids' Pages Family Magazine is Colorado’s most respected and most comprehensive resource for families. Pays ten cents/word.
Literary journal of the University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS. Publishes fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, black and white artwork and photographs. New and established writers.
No seeking any specific genre, just quality work. Pays small honorarium and copies.
Seeks submissions of fiction, poetry, photography, visual art, comics, interviews, and feature articles for its upcoming issue #18, to be published in Spring 2008. The theme for Issue #18 is THE FREE ISSUE. Deadline October 31, 2007.
Pays $10 to $50.
New York Times buys book blog!
The New York Times has added a book blog to its website. The site now features the Freakonomics blog written by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner. Vivian Schiller, an executive at NYTimes.com, has said that “This is the first established blog that we've picked up. But it won't be the last.”
Will your blog be the next?
It could be if you make it really interesting. Of course, it would help to have a bestselling book to back it up. Look for more media websites to be picking up blogs and other web content. If you make your website or blog valuable enough, you could find various websites begging to give you money to have you post content for them.
If you have already written a book, your content is already more valuable than content from websites with no books to back them.
Irene Morgan Kirkaldy, a black woman whose refusal to give up her bus seat to white passengers triggered a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision more than a decade before Rosa Parks gained recognition for doing the same, died. She was 90. Kirkaldy died Friday at her daughter's home, said Fred Carter, director of Carter Funeral Home in Newport News. Kirkaldy, born Irene Morgan in Baltimore in 1917, was arrested in 1944 for refusing to give up her seat on a Greyhound bus heading from Gloucester to Baltimore, and for resisting arrest. Her case was appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court by an NAACP lawyer named Thurgood Marshall, who later became the first black justice on the high court. The case resulted in a 1946 decision striking down Jim Crow segregation in interstate transportation. At the time, the case received little attention, but it paved the way for Parks' famous stand on a local bus in Montgomery, Ala., in 1955. Kirkaldy also inspired the first Freedom Ride in 1947, when 16 civil rights activists rode buses and trains through the South to test the law enunciated in her Supreme Court case. In 2001, President Bill Clinton awarded her the Presidential Citizens Medal - the second highest civilian honor in the United States. - Article furnished by AOL Black Voices
Wow! Why hadn't I heard of this lady before now? Even though she chose to live her life in anonymity, it seems as if I would have learned about her in the history books, especially US history. But you know, the people who are credited with being the first at anything are not usually the first to have done a thing. From being a major force behind changing US law, to discovery and invention, to concepts and ideas, there is always an unknown forerunner who lead the way. She was as important to the Civil Rights Movement as Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr themselves. And it was one of her life's purposes to set the stage years earlier to get that ball rolling in the right direction.
I'm feeling somewhat inspired right now, but not in the most obvious way. I'm feeling inspired on the entrepreneurial front. Although every voice is unique, nothing is new under the sun. So whether you have a strong belief or take a stand for something that is different from the norm, or have an idea for something new - a product, a business concept, whatever...that initial seed of thought is inspiration. And inspiration, even though some may not think, has an external source...a source bigger than the person. So do something with it! If you don't, someone else will. And you'll be standing right there in the same place you were yesteryear, thinking about how you thought of it first.
Thanks Mrs. Kirkaldy! Rest in Peace.
And to all my readers, Peace, Love, Light & Success,
From Dusk to Dawn: Against all odds 2008 Virtual Book Tour
From Dusk to Dawn Niambi Brown Davis Parker Publishing, May 1st, 2008 $10.95 US; ISBN-10: 1600430368
Meet Bilal and Ayo, two people who are polar opposites in every way. He’s 32 and she’s 42. Bilal is ready to get married and start a family. Ayo, on the other hand, is a comfortably relaxed, in- her own skin widow with a 20 year old son. And she's certain her child-bearing days are over. Bilal is Muslim, and Ayo is most certainly not. Neither Bilal's father, nor Ayo's son are too happy about the relationship. These two, having nothing in common, would struggle to even hold a conversation, much less fall in love? And after their disastrous first encounter, you’d think it was impossible. Or is it? But not so fast. I’ve been invited to participate in the FROM DUSK TO DAWN: Against All Odds 2008 Virtual Book Tour. Debut author, Niambi Brown Davis, has asked me this question, "Which of these issues--older woman/younger man; different faiths; disgruntled family members; late in life motherhood/infertily has the potential to wreck the most havoc on Ayo and Bilal's relationship and keep them from walking down the aisle.
But before I give my perspective, watch the trailer.
The fate of this relationship is quite questionable since there are issues and obstacles right from the very beginning. From their May/December romance, to their different faiths and feelings regarding children/starting a family, to the disapproval of family members, this couple will definitely find out if their love is real enough to last. But for the sake of blogging, I'm going to delve into all the different obstacles facing them and decide which one I think could possibly manifest the biggest problems and be the hardest to overcome.
Albeit, all relationships are a work in progress, but starting off behind the eight ball only makes things harder. Notice I didn't say impossible? And while I do believe any of these challenges could potentially cause havoc in a relationship, I think the biggest issue facing this couple is their different religious beliefs. All the other obstacles can be overcome by the mighty "L" word. But having very different religious beliefs and faiths would be the most detrimental in any relationship, even if the love is true.
Why? Because a person's faith and religious customs and beliefs may influence the way he or she eats, sleeps, prays, and possibly even celebrates holidays, it would be ridiculous to think that a major difference in two views would be of little concern. Also, that faith is the determining factor for how the person will both act and react in a certain situation and how circumstances are viewed. It makes no difference if the situation or circumstance is positive or negative, serious or not so serious. So when crises occur within that relationship, if the two people involved are not in some sort of agreement about how to handle them, or at least what the expected the outcomes should be, then chances for having huge, unresolved issues, which can lead to breakdown in communication and ultimately broken relationships, increase drastically.
Now we all know that every relationship will cause a few scrapes and bruises from time to time. But when the love is real, these hurts will heal easily and be barely noticeable in no time. But when you start mixing religions or trying to change a person's belief system and how he or she worships and views the world, now we're talking big, gaping wound territory.
This novel is most extraordinary! National Best-selling Romance and Romantic Suspence Author, Deidre Savoy, describes it as Sizzling!
You DON'T want to miss this one!
About the author:
Niambi was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She and her family lived for many years in Washington, DC and for three and a half years, made the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago their home. She has written for Bronze Thrills, True Confessions and Black Romance Magazines. Niambi indulged her passion for sailing and travel by serving as publicist for the Black Boaters Summit and as a member of the National Association of Black Travel Writers. Presently, Niambi writes for Travel Lady Magazine. Her first digital novella was published in January 2008 by Arrow Publications, LLC. Aside from writing and travel, Niambi is an avid reader of historical fiction, and deeply involved in tracing the history of both branches of her family tree. Her day job is running the business of Sand & Silk/Soleful Strut, where she produces private label products for hair and skincare companies as well as her own line of handcrafted soaps, creams and scrubs.
Sweet Georgia Brown Cheryl Robinson NAL Trade, January 2, 2008 $13.95 US; ISBN: 0451222288
Meet Georgia Brown-a humble housewife determined to become a household name…. After eleven years of marriage, Georgia Brown is fed up with her husband, Marvin, a popular radio personality. It’s not just because she suspects he’s having an affair, or because she’s suddenly expected to raise his thirteen-year-old daughter, Chloe-whom she never even knew existed. It’s because of the comments he makes about her weight, their marriage, and their sex life…on national radio! Now, to save their marriage, Marvin invites Georgia to the station for an on-air rebuttal . . . .
I’ve been invited to participate in the SWEET GEORGIA BROWN: Humble Housewife 2008 Virtual Book Tour. Cheryl Robinson, the author of this exciting new release has asked me the question, “If I was in her humble housewife, Georgia Brown’s shoes, what would my on-air rebuttal be?”
But before I give my rebuttal, watch the trailer.
Sweet Georgia Brown
Vee's Rebuttal "Marvin, I'm still mad as hell! You bringing these strangers into our bedroom?! How could you do that? You bring all this drama into my life at home, and then have the nerve to disgrace me on live radio? And you've got them thinking you're all that and you've got it going on. Well honey, seems to me that I'm not the only one who could use a little stretching. And I ain't talking 'bout your mind, if you know what I mean!
But see baby, I never would have taken it there, not on air. But you wanna play dirty, so okay let's do it.
You see, all these things you think are so wrong with me, some see as beauty. And I could conform to your ideal, if I chose to. I could change myself and my weight, but it wouldn't change who I am. But now you, can you change the s...
You know what? Never mind. humh. I can't even play your game. I'm too classy for this. The honest truth is I loved you. And all your imperfections, I adored, because I adored you. But I tell you what, Marvin, I deserve better.
And I WON'T hold you any longer, dear. You have broken my heart, but you will NOT break my spirit, and you WILL NOT steal my joy.
Not anymore.
You are free...to...go.
And baby...your things will be outside waiting for you when you get home.
This is Sweet Georgia Brown, everyone, signing off."
I just had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Francine Craft, author of Never Without You...Again. The multi-talented Ms. Craft is a national best selling romance writer whose novels have completely captured the hearts of her readers. After reading her latest treasure, I decided I wanted to know a little more about the lady behind the pages of, Never Without You… Again
Vee: In the “Dear Reader” letter located in the beginning of your new release, Never Without You Again, you say that the story of Hunter Davis and Theda Coles has been in your head for a long time. How so and why is their story so special to you?
Francine: I have had especially good luck with a rekindled romance, so it remains solidly in my heart as an all time favorite. I think this is the major reason the story is so special to me.
Vee: Hunter Davis is a renowned photographer in this novel and you mention that photography is one of your hobbies. Tell us more about this hobby and how you incorporated it into this story.
Francine: I don't have as much time for photography as I've had in the past, but I still like to read the books on photography and study the photographs of masters and amateurs. I've taken some photos in my time that friends and those in the field have praised highly. Like so many people, I probably have a natural knack for it.
Vee: How have readers and reviewers responded to this new release so far?
Francine: Readers and reviewers have been wonderful concerning Never Without You....Again. I just got a notice that the book has sold out, which doesn't mean it isn't still very much on sale and available. Readers and reviewers have been more than kind, with many singing praise. This doesn't mean it doesn't have its detractors, but there haven't been many, and I think the late President Truman said it best: "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen."
Vee: Do all of your books contain a special message you want readers to grasp and understand?
Francine: I think all my books contain a message or messages: 1) Learn to trust yourself and others, whatever you do, and be discriminating about it, 2)Love and caring are so absolutely necessary to a good life.
Vee: What makes a good heroine and what qualities should a good hero have?
Francine: I think a heroine should be loving (or at least have the capacity to be), be caring and want to trust her heart. She is a good friend and a good lover. She is dedicated to finding the best that life has to offer and to lending what aid and assistance she can to others. A hero should have the same qualities, but men have been trained to hide these qualities under a macho mask.
Vee: What do you enjoy most hearing from your fans?
Francine: I just enjoy about everything I hear from my fans. I have been privileged to get some of the most warm-hearted, endearing letters you can imagine, and trust me I answer right away. I love it when fans identify with the characters in my books and when they write long letters and tell me about this or the other character. My own head is often chock-full of characters to come and I don't always instantaneously remember, but I'm charmed, pleased and just go into orbit when they do this. I also love it when fans suggest spin-offs and other books and I've been able to use a few of these. The personal touch is big with me; when someone says why on earth did you have so and so do such and such? I laugh out loud and think about it. And yes, I love good, constructive criticism and I think I develop from it. You didn't ask, but I'll tell you what I don't like and that's when someone takes off on me in a mindless, vindictive tear and without rhyme or reason picks something I've written to pieces. But hey, that's all a part of the game. You've got to learn early that you just can't win them all.
`
Vee: Well Ms. Craft, it has certainly been a pleasure talking with you. Thank you for stopping by.
` Francine: No Vee, thanks for having me and much love!
About the Author
Francine Craft is the pen name of this Washington, D.C. based writer who has enjoyed writing for many years. She has been writing romance since 1995 and has a total of 21 titles - 16 novels and 4 anthologies. Never Without You . . . Again is her latest Kimani Romance release. Visit her online at http://www.francinecraft.com/ or www.myspace.com/francinecraft for more information.
Never Without You . . . Again by Francine Craft is available wherever books are sold!
For everyone who doesn't know Otis yet, I advise that you browse around his web site and check out his podcast. They're informative, real, and witty. Subject matter ranges vastly. Everything from spiritual, financial and personal growth, to advice on marriage and romantic relationships, with tips on how to keep your partner satisfied and on FIRE!
Otis just happens to be a personal, life long friend of mine, but also my business mentor. I've learned so much from him already. So whether you're thinking about starting your own business, looking for the perfect job, wondering if the stock market is for you, or are just interested in listening to a few good podcasts for entertainment purposes only, check him out at http://www.otiscollier.com/ But let me get back to the real reason for doing this post. I just finished
listening to his podcast called, "For Women Only." It was absolutely wonderful. We as women have to learn how to be good to our men. The old adage is true: Behind every good man is a good woman. We are the backbone because our strength is inherent to who we are. And with this comes a lot of responsibility. We have the ability to hold our men back, as well as the power to lift them up and release them from their own bondage to become who they were destined to be. Gentle, loving nudges go a whole lot further than constant nagging or condescending jibber jabber.
And so as to not leave out the fellas, Otis has a special podcast just for you too. So go ahead and check out, "For Men Only." Knowing what I know about Otis, I'm sure he's got some good, solid wisdom for you as well.
The new album, produced by R&B superproducers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis marks Khan's first full length studio effort (including new, unreleased compositions) in over ten years. With covers of tracks popularized by Prince ('Sign of the Times'), Dee Dee Warwick ('Foolish Fool'), Jimi Hendrix ('Castle in the Sand') and her former band Rufus ('You Got the Love'), 'Funk This' is well balanced with new and original compositions, most notably the poignant 'Angel,' which is an entry from her diary. The album is due to be released via Burgundy Records/Sony on Sept. 25, 2007. Khan feels that her latest album may remind people of her early Rufus albums because she's in a similar "soul space."
Ever wonder what became of the young Celie from the movie, The Color Purple?
She was touted as the "ugly" sister with the unruly plaits, but now she's a beautiful woman with a spirit to match. Her name is Desreta Jackson and she is a successful entrepreneur. She's the founder of Mahogany Mane Inc., a real estate development company with some very innovative ideas and services.
Not only is her story inspirational, but she offers very valuable and much needed services to those who would otherwise fall between the cracks.
Her story:
Three years ago, Mahogany Mane had its start when its founder left her lucrative day job to begin her home based hair braiding business. While working at home, she marketed herself as not your run-of-the-mill home based business, but a large company offering professional one-on-one attention. She found herself immersed in the study of hair, offering homemade remedies for her clients.
Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day.
With capital from Mahogany Mane's hair styling business, Desreta used her negotiation and management skills to buy properties, refurbish them, and rent homes. Initially rejected by lenders, her extended family assisted her in construction projects to help build her credit and credibility.
Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.
At Mahogany Mane, we believe in community and the value of beautification of neighborhoods in greatest need. Our typical clients may be single mothers on assistance and/or people who are credit-challenged and supporting large families. We also work with abused and battered women's organizations and community outreach programs to find qualified renters who are a good fit for our properties. Together with our community partners, we provide credit and family counseling for those in need.
Well, if only Celie had had a friend like Desreta...
Then again, we wouldn't have had the pleasure of being able to read this critically acclaimed, 1983 Pulitzer Prize winning book written by Alice Walker, now would we? Oh yeah, and Fantasia wouldn't be on Broadway burning it up!
to work on me and mine.
to work on me and mine.
