Lunch with your ex...

So this is something I have been thinking about lately. Is it ever acceptable to hang out with your ex if you are dating someone new? I personally feel there are a few different factors that affect this decision or whether it's wrong to OR right to do. If you and your ex both have moved on and there are no feelings there then I think it is okay. Of course if you are single it is okay. Everyone's situations are different, I know some people who can have relationships with there exs with nothing beyond friendship, but if you are with you think you might be tempted to "test the waters" again, then it's probably best if you give yourself boundaries. This can be hard especially if your last relationship did not end on bad terms, because no one really wants to blatantly hurt someone else's feelings by declining an invitation to go out. Relationships can be so complicated even though they honestly should not be. To be completely honest it should involve the two parties involved respecting each other which I do not think can truly happen if you are still seeing your ex. So, with all that being said, is it okay to have lunch with your ex? I guess the question at hand is, is it just lunch that is taking place and why are you guys meeting? This all needs to be sorted out in your head before you get there and feel uncomfortable or caught off guard by specific conversation. 


A few things are for certain; if your partner is not okay with you and your ex "hanging out" you should definitely not go behind their back and see your ex. You also should not be holding secret conversations with your ex behind your current girl/boyfriends back. You shouldn't with hold information (i.e not mentioning that you are going out with your ex) it is still considered lying.


 You SHOULD have open dialogue with your partner, have conversations about how they feel about the idea of hanging out wither their exes and you hanging out with yours. You may be surprised how they feel and you will feel much better, being honest (trust me)! These are just my opinions based on my experiences, not necessary truths. 


- B 

Honesty Time: I give up!!!!

So, I have already given up on my 30 day hair challenge. I forgot, I really don't like to do my hair. Sorry guys!!!! I'm sorry to disappoint. I will def make update when I do, do my hair in a new or cool style :)

Week One: Hair Challenge

Day 1: Straight, curled layers

Day 2: Two 2 strand twist on each side. 1/2 up, 1/2 down

Day 3: Simple Ponytail

Day 4: one twist, the rest is down

Day 5: Loose Tousled Curls

Day 6: Straight w/slightly  bumped ends

 Day 7: "Bunning it"

Beauty posts COMING SOON

I promise I will be doing some new hair posts soon! Including my current hair length and condition of my hair. I did get a hair cut recently (out of necessity).

I also promise to bring you some beauty posts.

I will talk about new products I am using and products I am dying to buy/use.

A friend of mine did a 30 day hair challenge. Where she did something different to her hair everyday, for 30 days. It looked really cool so I may try that. If I do, I will post the pics each week not each day. So there wld be an entry for each week of 7 different hair pics. I think I wil start November 1st.

Some of my 2011 music opinions. I am no expert just a chick who loves hip-hop

Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar ✩✩✩✩✩- Kendrick is a California based hip hop artist who has been in the rap scene since 2003 and has released a handful of mixtapes. Although Kendrick's local and underground buzz was heavy, it was not until his release of Section .80 that granted him national attention. I believe Kendrick's Section .80 album embodied messages, of street life and just what it means to survive and live, similar to that of the late great Tupac. My favorites on Section .80 are A.D.H.D, No Make-up, Tammy's Song, The Spiteful Chant, and Keisha's Song. I thoroughly enjoyed the album. It is still a frequent and consistent listen since its July release, for me.

Wale

Wale ✩✩✩✩- A very hard working artist who has been on the scene for a few years. Since 2006 Wale has made a mixtape every year. Some of my favorites are The Mixtape About Nothing, Back to The Feature, & More About Nothing. Wale is different then many of his predecessors and many currently in the game, in that he just raps what he feels. To me it seems like it comes very easy for him. It just rolls of his tongue. He will give you intellectual poetic and then switch it up and give you some DC roughneck, lol. One thing is for certain, you can not just put him in one box. His most recent mixtape, The Eleven One Eleven Theory is pretty dope too. I loved his debut album, Attention Deficit, and I highly anticipate Ambition which releases Tuesday 01/01/2011. I am sure it will be fire. An update will follow.

J. Cole

J. Cole ✩✩✩ - J.Cole is another fresh face who has been popping up everywhere lately. I first heard about J. Cole about two years ago. I was rambling through my friends music, when I found a blank CD. I thought I would "steal" it, to burn some music onto it, BUT I was happily mistaken because there was already music on it. It was J. Cole's The Warm Up. I liked it, so I started searching for more music from Cole. Downloaded his first mixtape, and by the time Friday Night Lights (his 3rd and most recent mixtape dropped) I was a Cole fan. FNL was very dope. The beats were nice, flow was methodical, and word play was good. Now I must be honest his most recent release, his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story did not blow me away. It was not bad. But it just did not measure up, at all to his previous material. That is why he only gets three stars.

Jay-Z & Kanye West

Kanye West & Jay-Z ✩✩✩✩  - These two multi platinum artist have proven themselves time and time again. They usually produce solid material. So the release of Watch The Throne was nothing different. It was a good album. With good production, clever and witty lines, and catchy hooks. It was dark, and a little different for Jay-Z. I definitely feel like it was more of a Kanye project. Even though I love both of these men, I can not confidently say this is the best album of 2011. Solid, good material though. Four stars because I hold these two at a different caliber than many of the newer guys on the block.

Big K.R.I.T

Big K.R.I.T ✩✩- I got into K.R.I.T late, in the last year, and although I can not say he is in heavy rotation in my iPod, BUT I can not say that he is not dope. K.R.I.T is another who has been on his grind. He has several mixtapes under his belt. K.R.I.T Wuz Here was the first listen I gave him, and I dug it. I loved his song Hometown Hero, which was sampled from a favorite Adele song of mine, Just Touched Down, and Moon & Stars to name a few. It was refreshing to hear some new generation non nonsense southern rap.

Game

Game ✩✩✩- I never was a huge game fan. I listened but never was to excited. But Game's R.E.D album was good. It had a lot of material on it, and the majority of it was good. Game had a lot of hands in this album, from production to features. It was a solid piece of work but I am just not a lover of Game's voice and delivery. Nevertheless, I do feel like it is some of his best work.

Meek Mill

Meek Mill ✩✩- A fresh new face with a hard delivery and street edge always has the capability to grab my attention. Mill's has had over 10 mixtapes in the last six years. He think he talented and has a lot of potential. His two singles, Tupac Back & Ima Boss both featuring Rick Ross had good reception over the summer and House Party off his latest Dreamchasers mixtape has also been popular. He has been signed to Rick Ross' Maybach Money Group so we shall see what the future holds for Meek Mills.

Drake

Drake ✩✩✩✩½ -
I heard Drake for the first time back in 2009 and since then it seems like he has been everywhere! If its not his song, he is featuring on it. Drake's witty, and fun rap lyrics along with his more than decent voice make his music almost impossible not to like. Even though I get tired of hearing his voice sometimes, you cant deny that the boy has skills and talent. His Comeback Season mixtapeDegrassi's, musical talents. I also enjoyed his debut album, Thank Me Later, it was a great first project. Looking forward to his Sophomore album, Take Care scheduled to be released mid November. I do like the two singles I have heard, I'm so proud of you featuring Nicki Minaj and Headlines.

That is it for now.... I may have missed some. I may do another Music Opinions/Review

btw, if you do not agree with my opinion, its okay to let me know. Post.

Need some help deciding on a movie? Here are some great movies I have seen recently...

1-5 Star Ratings

• Adjustment Bureau  ✩✩✩✩ (clever, intriguing, and thrilling)
• Bridesmaids ✩✩✩ (LOL funny)
• Lincoln Lawyer ✩✩✩✩ (witty and suspenseful)
• Bad Teacher ✩✩✩ (shrewd and fun)
• Transformers ✩✩✩✩ (action packed)
• Something Borrowed  ✩✩✩✩✩ (cute, quirky, funny, romantic but not mushy)
• Limitless ✩✩✩✩✩ (smart, endearing, funny, thought provoking)
• Take Me Home Tonight ✩✩✩ (funny)
• Arthur ✩✩✩ (funny)
• Hall Pass ✩✩✩✩✩ (hilarious and clever)
• No Strings Attached ✩✩✩✩✩ (funny, romantic, and fun)
• Holy Rollers ✩✩ (dark, interesting)
• Green Hornet ✩✩ (funny, nice action)
• Due Date ✩✩✩✩✩ (LOL funny)

10/30/2011 is here. ♫Watch The Throne♫ !!!!! Part ONE

October 30th is finally here. I have been anticipating this day since I purchased my ticket in August. I know it will be a fantastic show but I curious to see what Kanye has up his sleeve. I am attending with two of my best friends and I know I am going to have a blast. I am the biggest Hov fan and I love Ye. I have been to four Jay-Z concerts, so far in my lifetime. This will be concert #5. I have only seen Kanye once. But I can say Ye definitely is a performer. He gives you all the smoke. lights, and extras that one craves from a live performance. So I imagine this is going to be nothing short of EPIC!!! I've read articles saying the show is about two hours long.


I wonder what they will open the concert with???? I am thinking "Primetime" or maybe "Niggas in Paris"? Not sure but whatever it is, I know it will be great.


Several friends of mine & twitter followers will be attending tonight. We've been talking about WTT for weeks...months. I am sure it will be talked about for months to come, after wards as well.

A few tracks I can not wait to see are " I Can't Stop", "Murder The Excellence", and "Illest Muthafucka Alive".

I also hope they do some songs from their own discography's. That would be dope. I am a         sure they will. I have not    watched any videos or footage of the concert because I want to be  completely surprised.                                                                                                                               In a few hours hours I will be Watching The Throne...Kanye & Jay-Z are absolutely going to    rock out the Greensboro coliseum. "..blood stains, the coliseum doors..."

I will be back with concert detail on Part Two of Watch the Throne. 

♥ ♥ ♥

Snooping...

snoop [snuːp] Informal
vb
(intr; often foll by about or around) to pry into the private business of others
n
1. a person who pries into the business of others
2. an act or instance of snooping
[from Dutch snoepen to eat furtively]
snoopy  adj

I am referring to snooping in your significant others things. While they may not be a stranger, it does not give a free pass to look into their things. Why do people snoop? I think most people snoop in their significant others things because they do not trust them? What other reason would there be? If there is another reason, I need to be enlightened. That brings me to the next the next question. What constitutes snooping? If your partners Facebook messages are up on you guy's shared computer, and you look, is that snooping? Should couples be required to share their passwords with significant others? I don't know if that makes a bit of difference because if someone is going to cheat, and be sneaky about it, they will just find another avenue besides social networks to communicate with other people they are interested in.

How does someone wanting to look through your phone or looking through your phone make you feel? Or rather is it okay to look through your man's/girl's phone? What drives these actions or emotions behind the action. Is it jealous, insecurity, previous baggage? I am curious to hear some opinions on this matter. Does this behavior ruin or damage relationships? What is to be accomplished once you do look or find something?

Project Wheels.

So...before I left to return home to New York, I gave up my car. I regret this decision more than ever now that I am back in North Carolina. I am in desperate need of transportation and I have to start all over! I have never been with out transportation more than a few days since I have been able to drive and it has been HELL. When I get back on the road I will never put myself in this situation again. If you have a car, please take care of it AND cherish it. I am saving $ to buy a car so if you periodically hear me mention project wheels- this is what I am referring to. I am trying to stay motivated and in good spirits along the way.

....wish me luck

BEYONCE & HOV. baby. BeYoNcE. bAbY! HoV

In lieu of the Watch The Throne concert I will be attending later this week I will talk about two of my most favorite entertainers, Sean and Beyonce Knowles-Carter. Several weeks ago at the MTV music awards Beyonce revealed her baby bump during her performance. The camera showed Jay-Z and Kanye's reaction to Mrs. Carter rubbing her belly, and the best word to describe it would be sheer excitement. Jay-Z looked so proud and genuinely happy. Although I was happy I was also shocked because this very public announcement was out of the ordinary for the Carter's. They are usually very private. Nevertheless I am happy for them.

Since the announcement, Beyonce has been heavily scrutinized. She has been accused of wearing a prosthetic belly so she will appear pregnant. It has also been stated that she has a segregate carrying their child. Many of these accusations have been do to a interview Beyonce did an interview for a late night Austrian show where her belly appeared to "collapse". Her publicist of course claims the accusations are absurd. No one knows what is going on so I think people should not be so offended or upset by the rumors. In time I'm sure we will see. What I can say is Bey's latest videos, Countdown and Love On Top are cute :)

Of course I will give you an entry on the Watch The Throne concert :D :D :D

Check ya lata!

I am BACK...

Hello!!!! I am back. I have been out of commission for some time now, but I promise I am back with a vengeance. I have so much to talk about it is ridiculous! So much has transpired since I wrote last Music, entertainment, make up, NATURAL hair, products, my life...we will in time, get to ALL that. Excited is a understatement of how I feel that I have the opportunity to be back at it. I hope you are ready because I certainly am. 
*kisses & bubbles*

How Did I Get So Fat????

I know how. This is a very sensitive and personal topic for me but I feel the need to be completely raw and real with my readers. I have never been a skinny girl and I have always been okay with that. The smallest I have ever been was 140 lbs. throughout high school. I stayed between 140-155 lbs. up until my junior year in college. Then I started gaining weight but it still was not catastrophic. Even at 160 lbs I was still decent looking...fast forward 3 years and now I a whopping 219 lbs.!!!!! 0_0


What is sad is, I have lost 15 lbs in the last two months. 219 pounds on a 5'5 frame is too much. I am past overweight. I am medically obese and something has to be done about this. 


I have dieted before but I always backslide. I think this time I need to start out with the deeper issues, like why I am eating what I am eating? I admit I am a binge eater, especially on sweets. I also know a lot of my eating are triggered by emotions. I am in tears writing this...because it is hard to see these words written. When I am mad, sad, anxious, and even sometimes happy- I EAT. I need to find healthier alternatives instead of eating to comfort myself. I need to cook healthier. I need to love myself enough to see the necessity in a healthy lifestyle. I want to live as long as I can. I do not want to deal with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol! I HAVE to be more conscious. I have a hard time losing weight on my own so...


Weight Watchers is my last life line. I have done WW four times already, each time I am moderately successful but I never stick to the program so I can not give a good review of the program. I am excited to try the new Points Plus program! 


My goal weight is between 140-150 lbs. I can do it, it will just take determination, hard work, and discipline. I am making a promise which makes me accountable for something/ someone other than myself and the WW scale. If anyone cares to join me in this weight loss journey, please do. It would be fun and encouraging. I have a   few different journeys going on right now but this one is the most important to me. I will document my weight journey with pictures. I am not ready for a picture yet. But the first day I join WW I will take a picture.  


My Plan

• Weight Watchers (healthier cocking, eating, snacks, etc.)
• Gym/Exercise (3-5 times a week)
• Writing 
• Documenting

I AM TIRED OF BEING A DAMN WHALE and IT'S UP TO ME TO CHANGE IT!

To You, on Mother's Day

This year has been very difficult with plenty obstacles, losses, and let downs. But one thing that has remained the same- your LOVE. I know I do not always make it easy to love me but you still do. Over two months ago, you took me in after I had lost everything. You made a way despite your financial status. But you didn't stop there,medically, you made certain I was cared for. Again, despite your own pain and medical needs. I want to thank you! I am an adult and I recognize you don't have to do ANYTHING, yet you still do and I am eternally grateful . You've made so many sacrifices, not just now, BUT all my life. I am sorry if I ever made you feel like you did a poor job because truthfully, you didn't. You were "dealt a tough hand" and you played them the best way you knew how to. I love you for your selflessness, generosity, forgiveness, and even your rough edges, Of course we have had our ups and downs but we've learned from them. As a child I did not understand and pinned in a lot of pain and anger. We did not always have but you made a way Just like you say, "ALWAYS FORWARD, NEVER BACKWARD". I apologize if I have ever hurt you or made you feel like less, than the amazing mommy you are. There is another saying, "hurt people, hurt people". I have been had a huge chip on my shoulder for years AND I am determined to break that chip away. I do not know what our next chapter will be but I pray it will be brighter, and a happier place. I am thankful to have you, another mother's day...many do not realize just how lucky/blesses they are to have their mothers.


I LOVE YOU & Happy Mother's Day






*To those who have lost their mother's and struggle on this day, I pray for you healing and I love you. God Bless*

Update on Beyonce's Move Ya Body Video (WHAT IT IS REALLY ABOUT)

Beyonce' has joined NAB ( non-alcoholic beverages) company as a partner along with the "Let's Move flash event", dedicated to fighting childhood obesity with the first lady Michelle Obama "let's move" campaign. This explains the school cafeteria setting for the 'Move ya Body' , and all the healthy food choices in the video. If anyone should or could promote exercising through dance, I would definitely say Mrs. Knowles- Carter can because she is infamous for her cardio dance routines. 

First Lady Recaps One Year start of the 'Move Ya Body' Program

Also, Beyoncé, Tina Knowles, and Deréon have teamed up with First Lady Michelle Obama as the t-shirt sponsor for the "Let's Move! Flash Workout” campaign.

Michelle Obama talking about and doing some of  the 'move ya body' dance routine

My Knowles- Carter decided to do a surprise visit to a school, in Harlem, that was performing their 'move ya body' rendition. The excitement brought tears to my eyes. Just watch! Another reason why I  can love this woman.

Bey ♥ the kids

sited:  http://www.letsmove.gov/ and courtesy of youtube.com

Osama Bin Laden Dead...now what? (Impromptu Post)

Tonight it has been announced that Osama bin Laden has been killed. When I first heard the news I was excited and now I feel fear. I feel that as Americans, we must now be on our toes more than ever. What about Bin Laden's children? Are they not followers of his doctrines and theories? I have been waiting almost 40 mins for President Obama to make the official statement. Despite the uncertainty I am relieved Bin Laden has been captured (even dead) because people must not forget he killed over 4k Americans, master mind of 9/11, and the man behind al-Qaeda. It has been almost ten years.


11:30 p.m
Finally, the president speaks and confirms Osama bin Laden's death but what proof will they present to the American citizens ?


I love how thorough the president was so thorough with this explanation of the mission to capture Bin Laden and clarification of who Osama was - which was not a Muslim leader! I do not know what to expect but all I can say is there is still need for us (the American people) to stay aware and up to par on what is going on. 


"OUR WAR IS NOT AGAINST ISLAM" - President Barack Obama


That is it for now...later.

BEY SERVES!!!!!

I just saw Beyonce's 'Move Ya Body' video and all I could do was scream because she was serving left and right....for those that doubted or didn't like "GIRLS..." I am sure you will LOVE this video. It does seem like a remix to her " Get Me Bodied" but it is newer and improved. The concept of the video is super cute and I loved it. I love this woman!!!!!

courtesy of youtube.com

Friends with BENEFITS/ Casual Sex

Okay, so this is a touchy subject because there are so many people who don't believe friends with benefits relationships can be healthy relationships, I DISAGREE. I speak from personal experience when I give my opinion. 


I believe having a friend you can go to to talk about things that bother you, console in, and be intimate with, without the pressure of a romantic relationship can be a very liberating  experience. Of course the individuals involved often care about each other and if it is a long term 'friends with benefits' relationship, they may even LOVE one another. I can say I loved my partner of several years but we were never in a titled relationship, in fact we used to share our love lives with each other, often after or before being intimate. It may seem like this would be an unhealthy interaction but for us, it worked (really well). I loved it and I loved him. We shared intimate secrets and gave great advice to one another. We always knew what we wanted from OUR relationship, and we followed suit.


I think the problem with casual sex or 'friends with benefits' happens with parties are not completely honest. Either they say they do not want a romantic relationship and really do or they do not want anything but sex but instead of being honest, they say they want more, so they can have (a) sexual encounter(s) with the other party. Maybe both people are being dishonest with each other and/or themselves. These behaviors are destined for doom. Now, obviously life throws us curve balls that we can not control- like falling in love with someone. As soon as you start feeling those feelings, YOU MUST share that with your partner so you can discuss the feelings, and you can decide what you want to do. At least if you have discussed it, your partner can never be blind sided by your emotions. If your partner does not share any of the feelings you have, it may hurt to walk away BUT it the best option sometimes. Because usually your feelings will become stronger, and their feelings don't change much. Ultimately, it is a personal choice but I have been there and done that, and I never want to do that shit again.

Two mature adults can make a decision if they want to consent to casual sex, if they are friends- that is cool. The easiest way to avoid misleading is to discuss what you want your relationship to be so there is no misunderstanding. The most important fact in this discussion any of this is to stay protected. Safe Sex is the Best Sex: Please WRAP up....there are so many STIs and STDs out there. You owe it to yourself to protect yourself, trust me you are worth it! Also get your STD check ups at least 1-2  times a year, every 6 months. At least once a year ask for a Herpes blood test, it sometimes does cost more and it is not included in a routine check up, it is important. Below I have listed two  of many VERY important Herpes facts. 

• One in five Americans have genital herpes (yet at least 80 percent of those with herpes are unaware they have it).

• About one in five people in the United States over age 12 (approximately 45 million individuals) are infected with HSV-2, the virus that causes genital herpes.²

facts courtesy of http://www.globalherbalsupplies.com/herpes/stats.html

Red Lip Update

So, as you know I have been on my conquest for the perfect red lip. I would not say I am there yet BUT I have a red shade that I like and I think it works okay for me. It is called Eros by NYX. My next shade I want to try is by NARS, Fire Down Below. SN: For this look I also used Smashbox primer under my foundation. It was so smooth and made my skin so silky. Definitely have to get that a.s.a.p!

SEXTING (Adult Content)

So this has become a big deal lately. People everywhere use their mobile devices as a form of communication with others. Cell phones are becoming more and more a part of everyones daily social interaction, and sexual interaction is not excluded from these daily interactions. "Sexting" is the act of sending explicit pictures or messages between cell phones. Although this seems very funny, it can and has gotten out of control. Obviously, usually a consenting individual sends explicit messages and pictures of their self BUT usually with the intention of only being seen by one person. Of course it is almost impossible to control someone showing pictures to their friends or buddies, once the image in their possession. This is exactly what has happened in the past with many teens AND adults, leading to lawsuits, suicides, and hurt feelings/reputations. I am not going to be self righteous or naive. My only advice is BE CAREFUL!




Now, that leads me into my next topic. It seems like now when you meet someone, even if you are just casually talking, the odds of them asking for an explicit picture are fairly great. This just happened to me. I know this may seem crazy, crude, and disgusting to many- but it is reality. I do not think it has anything to do with what type of girl or guy you are, or how much self respect one has for themselves because people share sexy pictures and messages everyday that have pride and respect for themselves. You may be surprised by this but I am not against these actions. It all depends on the circumstance. I feel there is a difference in a long term couple or even a married couple sexting versus a couple of teenagers dating for a few weeks and sending each other pics of their genitals. I am not condoning young people sexting. I think there is age appropriate activity for almost everything, sexting is not exempt, so....that is where I will leave my opinion on that. 


If you are a parent, talk to your kids about sex. Do not be to ashamed. If your a teen or an adult and you sext, think smart & be careful! I know I probably did not say what I "should" have said or what would be expected of me on this sensitive topic BUT this was a real life post. I compare sexting or not sexting to the message of being abstinent or safe sex (condoms and birth control). The reality is people are going to sext, the precaution taken is what is important. Now, the next conversation should be what precautions can one take when sexting?

Jay Electronica

I was laying on my brother's couch last summer on a Sunday afternoon, surrounded by friends. As usual we were watching Sucker Free Sunday. All of a sudden this video comes on, of an artist I had heard before but never paid too much attention to- Jay Electronica and the video was 'Exhibit C'. I sat up on the couch and my mouth dropped. I was so impressed by Electronica's flow and the rest of my friends were just as excited. The first thing I thought is 'where is this guy from?' He had his own style. So much, that I could not just put him in a box and guess what region he was from. Turns out he was from the south, New Orleans to be exact-which I thought was very cool. The simple fact was that he was nice. 'Exhibit C' peaked my interest in him, so I began listening to anything with his name on it. I was never disappointed. Jay Electronica is a true MC and I prayed that he would not be looked over and would get a solid deal.


 Well, my prayers were miraculously answered! Electronica announced that he was signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label in November of 2010. This was huge because everyone in the music business wanted to know Electronica's next move, and it was with Jay-Z. Good Move Jay Electronica!


It looks like Jay-Z is gonna have a new generation "dynasty", (AGAIN). With artists like Willow Smith, , Jay Electronica, J. Cole, and Rita Ora to name a few & Managing Wale, Santiago, Melanie Fiona, The Ting Tings and Rihanna to name a few. I am excited about the future of Roc Nation, I think it is very promising.

Gas Predicted To Be $6 by the Summer

$6 before the summer! That is outrageous.Why the hell does it seem like gas goes up ever summer? Some say the causes are the weakness in U.S currency, some are saying the rise in gas has been because of the increased storms  throughout the country, some say it is because of the "situation" in the middle east. Whatever that means, I mean, do you know what the "situation" in the middle east even is or means? Yet Americans and news anchors use the phrase so often.  I think we say this because it is just the easiest way to cope with the rise in gas or it sounds like the most legitimate answer. I just learned that the prices of oil and gas do not always coincide because currently oil is at an all time low, while gas is steadily rising. 

Whatever the reason, the fact is, gas may be $6 or more by summer. Sad but true.

chart courtesy of http://eternalcms.com/stock-market-news/why-gas-is-so-expensive-when-oil-is-not-2.html

I am breaking DOWN...I have gone to the Dark Side!

Okay guys...so I have been ANTI-APPLE products for as long as I can remember. I do not even know why but I used to have a blackberry and I think it stemmed from loving my blackberry. I also always felt that Apple products have been a bit hyped up. I think they are a little overpriced for my taste BUT I am breaking down. I have been using a Macbook Pro occasionally and it is fantastic!!!!


 I have always been a PC and now I can not believe I want to be a Mac (sorry to all my PCS)- I am crossing over to the dark side. In addition to the general use of Mac and everything becoming more Mac friendly I am getting tired of my inferior laptop getting viruses. I am also loving the iPads. This new obsession is bad. I almost feel like I have been brain washed because I even want to trade in my Android phone for an iPhone. I would not be able to even express what a big deal all of this is. I know it seems silly but for such an "Apple hater" it is! So, if you wanna surprise me with any of these lovely electronics...FEEL FREE.

Cyber Bullying

"I think allowing people to hide behind an online persona has made some, forget who they are." - Jaimey Howard

A friend and I were recently talking about cyber bullying and how cowardly these bullies are. It is not only cowardly but also very silly. On a very serious note, there have been several suicides in the last couple of years due to cyber bullying, whether it is because of cruel cyber jokes, hoaxes, or teasing. Some of the things said across the Internet is not only cruel and inappropriate but just immature! As I read some of the comments and so called "jokes", I think...'what or who gives you the right to say these hurtful things about another individual?' People communicating threats or nasty comments on social networks disgust me because like Howard said it is very easy to hide behind a screen name. 


These cyber bullies come in all shades and ages. Even adults, other parents, have been cyber bullies. In the case of 15 yr old Megan Meier who hanged herself (2006) in consequence of, an adult created fake Myspace page that lead to, very mean and nasty statements about the teen. This is just one of many stories about teens and people taking their lives because of someones malicious words. Let us work together to stop cyber bullying. There are enough hardships in the world without us adding an unnecessary one. Parents should talk to children about bullying, including cyber bullying and encourage positive Internet usage. Monitor their children's usage to be aware of what they are engaging in- whether they are bullying or being bullied. It is important to be AWARE.

Homemade Conditioner Recipes

CONDITIONERS (regular and deep) 

• REAL MAYO (small jar) & 1 AVOCADO: Peel, pit and mash avocado. Blend in mayonnaise. Apply and sit for 1 hour.
• 1 C. WARM BEER & JOJOBA OR SAFFLOWER OIL : Mix and apply, 30 mins-1 hour
• 1 RAW EGG &1/2 C NATURAL YOGURT: Mix and apply, 1 hour
• 1 TSP HONEY, 2 TBSP OLIVE OIL, 1 EGG YOLK: Mix and apply, 30 mins-1 hour
• 1/2 OLIVE OIL, 1/2 WATER (HOT OIL), Mix and warm on low heat, massage into scalp, wrap hair in hot towel,15 mins and rinse.
• 4 TBSP COCONUT OIL, 2 TBSP HONEY, 15 mins, shampoo and rinse out
• 
  

Homemade Deep Conditioner (HDC) AVOCADO/OIL/HERBS/COCONUT MILK

Today I made a homemade conditioner. I took some well known hair ideas and mixed some things together. lol

WHAT YOU NEED
AVOCADO- 1 ( rich vitamins promote health and strength)
HONEY- 1 TBSP (adds luster and shine to hair)
OIL (OLIVE, SAFFLOWER, COCONUT, ETC.) 1-2 TBSP ( adds moisture + other benefits depending on what kind of oil you use)
COCONUT MILK- 1 CUP (protein and vitamins strengthen hair. CM is high in fat which softens and de-frizzes the hair, some say it promotes growth)
FRESH ROSEMARY- USE OWN JUDGEMENT (promotes growth)
BLENDER, FOOD PROCESSOR, HAND BLENDER

DIRECTIONS
 Pull Rosemary leaves from branch, put those leaves in 1-2 tbsp of oil, microwave oil and Rosemary leaves 1-2 mins. Let that sit. Peel and pit avocado, and cut it up into a couple pieces. Pour measured coconut milk into your blender, bowl, etc., followed by avocados, Pour 1 tbsp of honey in a separate container and microwave that 10-15 secs and pour in with avocados and coconut milk, strain Rosemary leaves from oil and pour strained oil in blender. Blend as desired. There may be small pieces of avocado left (that is okay).

There are a few different conditioners you can make, besides this avocado/coconut milk/oil. I will have another entry listing some.
APPLICATION
This DC will be a runny consistency. If you desire a more pasty DC just put the mixture in the fridge for 1-2 days with out a top, to allow the water to evaporate out of the coconut milk. Application can get messy so put a towel on the floor where you are applying. I apply the front first then I flip my head and apply. You can use a spoon or your hand to carefully apply the mixture. Do not get too worried about all the avocado pieces, it is easy to sweep. Put on a cap to sit for at least 1-2 hours. Rinse thoroughly, 3X and  shampoo. There may be a few pieces of avocado left in you hair, it will rinse out in your next wash. Your hair will be slippery and soft. 

A HAIR PROMISE

In February 2011 I cut my hair into a A- line bob with a few longer pieces in the front. Since then I have snipped pieces of my hair that appeared damaged. At the end of this month, I will be getting my hair evened up to start my new goal and promise. I promise not to cut my hair  anymore, at all in 2011. Of course I will get trims when needed, but not to often maybe three times this year. I am going to start doing length checks each month to see how long it is growing. No coloring, unless it is henna but I have not had a color urge in quite some time.

I also promise to use very minimal heat on my hair. If I get it straighted, it will be at most twice a month (professionally or at home), and there will be protein treatments used before and after as well as heat protectants used. If I diffuse my curls I will continue to use low heat, low speed- but I will start applying a heat protectant when I do that too.

I have been washing my hair every 1-2 weeks,  co- washing maybe 2X a week, and deep conditioning every week. I am in the process of making a homemade deep conditioner- I will be trying my homemade deep conditioner (HMDC) this week, so I will let you know how that goes.

I know I will struggle in this promise because I get bored quickly and love to do different things with my hair but I will have to fight the urges and just try different natural styles or maybe even weaves. Who knows?

I will be setting goals for myself as I continue in my journey, feel free to join me.  I will measure my hair after getting it evened up. I will let you know how long my hair is to begin with. My first goal is 16'' hair

Relationships 101-01: The Habitual Cheater/Liar

A female just contacted me saying I have been talking to her boyfriend. First of all, we were not "talking", I had two brief conversations with him but for purposes of keeping our(the female and I) conversation brief I just told her, I did not know and I apologized. Then she told me that  he (her boyfriend) always does this. I told her, he did strike me as the type to be grimy. She says she does not know what to do anymore, and she feels helpless. So I simply told her,If you want different outcomes, you have to have different actions. I am a living testimony of that truth...you doing the same thing and expect change? Nah, it isn't going to happen.
I have dealt with lies, cheating, "girl" friends (he has 5 male friends, and 100 female friends -_-), ex-girlfriend drama, having to get STD check ups (more than average) just to give yourself peace of mind. But I have decided moving forward, I will never deal with that kind of mess again. It is emotionally draining. Fighting so hard for a relationship and being cheated on or lied to can be extremley detrimental. Everyone makes mistakes or has done something we are not proud of but, we are all human. I am not free of faults & wrong doings myself but I will not be mistreated or lied to, by anyone.

 I can not stand a liar. I can work through other misjudgements but once you start lying, I lose respect for you, and especially lose any trust I have given you. 

When we get cheated on, sometimes we feel like we can not go on...but the truth is, YOU CAN. And if you play your cards right, you can, not only go on but, go on in contentment.

Beysus is Back Babi

I just heard Beyonce's single, GIRLS (Who Run The World) and I must say, it is a club banger. I had to blog immediately because I am way to excited. It is a fresh new Beyonce sound and I can not wait to see what she does for the video, whatever she does I am sure it will be as big as the sound of this song. I mean, it screams girl power! I am already going to make a statement that Bey will be taking over the summer  of 2011, haha. We have been patiently waiting for it, and she's going to serve us! I was not able to see Beyonce in concert, for her last album BUT I made a promise to myself that I would see her for her next tour and I am already preparing mysel  for it. Mind you, this is not a FINAL PRODUCT of the song.

Here is a link to the SONG:
http://www.divshare.com/flash/audio_embed?data=YTo2OntzOjU6ImFwaUlkIjtpOjQ7czo2OiJmaWxlSWQiO3M6ODoiMTQ2MTMyMTUiO3M6NDoiY29kZSI7czoxMjoiMTQ2MTMyMTUtNDBmIjtzOjY6InVzZXJJZCI7aTowO3M6MTI6ImV4dGVybmFsQ2FsbCI7aToxO3M6NDoidGltZSI7aToxMzAzMzA2MDU2O30=&amp;autoplay="></embed></object>

As for the single, it will undoubtedly be an anthem.
"...It will be another female anthem"-  Jennifer Henderson Edwards

****picture courtsey of http://thisisrnb.com/ ****

MUSIC has POWER

I was listening to some old albums today and I was inspired to write a short post about how music can put you in a nostalgic state. Seriously, music is so powerful. You can hear a favorite song or even a song you hate and remember exactly where you where when you first heard it. I know I can remember who I listened/enjoyed the music with. I even remember details like smells. It is crazy. Many songs or albums will remind me of a specific scenario or time in my life.

I love music because it is one of the few instruments that connects and brings the masses together. It can be beautiful. People that never would be in each other's company, often are thanks to music. Concerts are the best example of this. I have gone to a few concerts and my favorite are the multi liner concerts. You see all kinds of different people who have at least one commonality:MUSIC. When you look around, you see everyone rocking to the performance, singing the songs, lighting their lighters or cell phones, and swaying in unity. It is beautiful.

J. COLE( I just could not help myself)

Everyone who knows me, knows that I love me some Jay-Z. He is my favorite rapper.


 Since being introduced to him at a Jay-Z concert two years ago I've been digging his protege', J.Cole. But recently, I have gotten REALLY into J. Cole. Ive been listening to his mixtapes and I am in love with his style, his word play is so clever, his rhymes just...I just love him. I had to make write a seperate post abt Jermaine, I am loving his grit and his hunger. Yet he remains himself. He is not trying to be something he is not. I admire and relate to him because he went to school and still pursued his dreams. The boy has talent. I mean of course, HOV not signing no BS. A few mixtapes later he's still working hard.


 All I can think about is him featuring on Jay's tour when no one really knew who J. Cole, really was. Jay put him on the tickets! That was a big move. When I heard his verse to "A Star is Born" I was like, yeah...he is gonna be a problem. Real Music keeps me hype. He is so real."Go hard like I seen some nipples on Beyonce, no disrespect to HOV but if I didn't I'd be beyond gay, almost erase them lines but in the end I chose to keep b/c if I did, I really mean it" lyrics from Cole's 'I Really Mean It'  on The Come Up mixtape. I could listen to  him for hours and there are not many artists I can say that about. He has a great voice and something to say.
 He is painting portraits and that is what I live for. Music that makes one feel good to the core can always stand the test of time and I believe J. Cole is here to stay, especially with Jay-Z's guidance.

The Search For The Perfect Red Lip

RED lips may be outdated but I have become obsessed with them. I think they are classic, if done right. I am the pro of pinks and nude lips and I desire something a little more dangerous. I have always been frightened by true red shades. Always thought they were too bright or I was too dark, idk. I now am feeling confident and ready to experiment. I recently purchased to red shades from E.L.F (Ruby Slipper and Voodoo) and they were not it. They were to dark, warm and way too subtle. So, I ordered NYX Round Case in Eros, which has an orange undertone and apparently, is a good undertone for my medium-dark skin tone. I was going to order NYX's Electra , which is a true red BUT I don't think I am ready for that just yet. Hell, I may still order it.

Whatever happens...you know, you will know!!!

Peace

NEW music (overdue) Reviews

L.A.S.E.R.S Lupe Fiasco's March 8th album is, as expected, a banga!!!! Even though it may not be the best Lupe album, it is better than anything that has come out. Controversial, funky, and raw. L.A.S.E.R.S is a great album. Short & Sweet.

March 18th, Chris Brown's, F.A.M.E, debuted. Although the album's content got mixed reviews, and Chris hit a little bit of a speed bump on Good Morning America, the album did really well. To me, it was a solid album. It had a good balance of pop, R&B/hip hop, as well as some good ballads.

The highly anticipated album from Wiz Khalifa, Rolling Papers, dropped  March 29, 2011. Many fans that have been with Wiz since Show and Prove or Deal or No Deal think he has become way to commercialized prematurely. I have to say initially, I agreed but I have heard the album and I think it is cool. For a freshman (big studio) album, Wiz did a good job.

SINGLES i LOVE

E.T Teenage Dream (Katy Perry feat. Kanye West)
Beautiful People, F.A.M.E (Chris Brown)
We Are Who We Are, Cannibal (Ke$ha)
Sure Thing, All I Want Is You (Miguel)
Lil Bruh, Top 5, Dead or Alive (Jadakiss feat.Pharrell)
Hold It Against Me, Femme Fatale (Britney Spears)
Ass On The Floor, Last Train To Paris (Dirty Money)
Best Love Song, RevolveR (T-Pain feat. Chris Brown)
My Last, Finally Famous,(Big Sean feat. Chris Brown
**OLDER**Get Back Up, No Mercy (T.I feat. Chris Brown)



Music i Cant Wait For in 2011!!!!
One word: BEYONCE
Missy Elliot - Block Party
Red Hot Chilli Peppers
Paramore
Kanye West & Jay-Z - Watch The Throne
Lil Wayne - The Carter IV
No Doubt
Lady Gaga- Born This Way
Praying J. Cole debuts his freshman studio album!!!!
Im feening for a Wale & Jay Electronic 2011 album ...(there is a pattern here)...(Roc Nation in the building)