Yeah, that’s me! Every year, I’m into something different. Last year, it was football (kind of). This year it’s politics. Instead of thinking about which Superbowl party I’ll go to first, I’m thinking of all of the other things going this weekend.
Tonight
Ba-RACK the Vote
Join Barack Obama supporters and music lovers at this eclectic concert consisting of rock, soul and R&B by Devin “Swagger” Crutcher, Candygirls and others. Cover is $5.
Hi-Tone
1913 Poplar Ave.
Doors open at 9 p.m.
Saturday
Saturday Sessions brought to you by Moody Entertainment
Bluefin Sushi Bar
1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday
Soup Sunday
Support Youth Villages in this annual soup tasting event. More than 60 restaurants in the Great Memphis area have come together to share their delicious soups with the public. I’ve been before and you always leave with a full heart and a full stomach!
FedEx Forum
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Monday
Sushi Nights
Try various susi dishes with homegrown sushi chef, Marisa Baggett every Monday night at Tsunami Restaurant.
Tsunami Restaurant
Cooper-Young area
5:30 p.m.-10 p.m.
Happy Black History Month! Don’t forget to vote in the primary on Super Tuesday (Mardi Gras) if you live in the selected states!
If you’re like me, you can’t sit still for a long period of time. I have to have SOMETHING to do. So as usual, I’m going to give a recap of what’s poppin’ in the M.
It’s only right that I tell you that Neosoulville.com is up and running. And has been for atleast two months. Neosoulville is here to give you neosoul folks all the info on events, shows and up and coming artists to watch for. Already, there have been interviews on Algebra Blessett and Amel Larrieux. Check them out, as well as my blog. Last month I checked out PJ Morton, The Fly Nerd at the Gibson Guitar Lounge and he was awesome. You can read my review here.
Go PJ!
Moody Entertainment will host Saturday Sessions at the chic Bluefin sushi bar at Peabody Place and Main Street this Saturday from 12 noon until 5 p.m. Come out and get your grown and sexy on!
Devin Crutcher aka Swagger formerly of MTV’s Making the Band 4 will perform at Cafe Soul on S. Main Street this Friday. Yep, he’s a Memphian!
Saavy Saturdays will kick off at Level II, featuring Miami Heat’s Dewayne Wade. All proceeds will benefit the family of Hypo Shivers, local radio personality and community partner.
For more events and photos, log on to NDLoop. Have a wonderful weekend!
I know, I know. It’s been a minute since my last post, but life happens. I just couldn’t let the New Year come in without posting. Since the Fashion Bomb post, I’ve still been writing, working, trying to get some things off the ground. Then my Dad became ill. A heartache followed by a bypass surgery, followed by a stroke, to be exact. But God is great, despite our circumstances. Daddy is doing much better just two months later.
As I regroup from an 11-day vacation of nothingness and rest and relaxation and cocktails from New Year’s Day brunch, I’m forced to think about what I want to get out of 2008. I’ve said before that I don’t do resolutions because we tend to make resolutions that we already know we’ll break. But we do need to set goals and keep them in front of us at all times. Everyone (including myself) loves to talk about the new things to come the first two weeks of the year. Once the Happy New Year things becomes old, we’re back to the same old thing. What are we DOING to make changes and new things REAL?
I won’t go into a long list of things you should or shouldn’t do because I don’t have all of the answers. Instead, I’ll ask you what do you REALLY want to happen for you this year? Do you even know? Have you even thought about it? If not, try! I know I don’t want my life to pass me by without having accomplished anything. So, just think about it and DO it!
I usually don’t do posts back to back, but this is special. I post as an intern blogger on The Fashion Bomb. The post is Hidden Hometown Haute, featuring boutiques and shops in guess where? Yep, The M! Read about only two of many of our hip shops in town.
Fall is here. The air is crisper and cooler. It's time to trade in the short shorts and sandals for cute chunky sweaters and stiletto boots. The bad thing about changing seasons is the constant need for the new trends, especially if you don't have as much money as you'd like to participate in retail therapy. But trendy is not always the best thing. Most times, classic is the best way to go, along with a few trendy pieces. I found this blog by Ayo Fashola, fashion consultant and CEO of Ice Cream Style in Dallas via that good Myspace. Check her out and her list of basics that every woman needs to survive any season here.
Along with new seasons come new ideas and I have a few up my sleeve. I'd finally like to stop thinking about it and start doing it. It being beginning a very very small public relations/writing consulting business. It hit me just yesterday that this is the perfect time for me, so I've got to get started. Researching, writing business plans and proposals, picking logos, websites—a name! I have no idea what I would call this business. Any ideas? Put them in the comments section. Let's not go for the cliché stuff. I guarantee someone else already has the name.
Ironically, before posting this, I read Lachelle's Atlanta Beehive post about starting a small business and found it to be quite helpful. So, what’s your something new for the season?
So what's new in the M?
“FLOW will be an unparalleled mix of hip-hop, mash-up, disco, 80s, reggae, funk, house and everything in between. In other words, great dance music, mixed well, in conjunction with a cool atmosphere at a sexy, yet comfortable, venue that caters to the people. There will be no dress code, no VIPs, no attitudes; just a great party for those who crave more! “
African American women are being diagnosed with the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. Get mammograms or do your own self-tests. It's your body! Donate to the Susan G. Komen Foundation in dedication or memory of a loved one, friend or breast cancer survivor, like my linesister's mother, Jacqueline. See her page here.
South Main Arts District is always a spot in any season in Memphis. The South Main RiverArts Festival will be held October 26-28. Visit Zanzibar, Joysmith Gallery, Wendell's World Beat Kitchen and Café Soul.
Moody Entertainment Presents The A-List
Westin Hotel Downtown
Saturday, October 20
Soror Shout-outs
My soror and dentist, Dr. Christina Rosenthal is celebrating her first year in business as owner of Paradigm Dental Center. I'm helping her celebrate October 27 at Fire and Ice.
Megan Motley brings to Memphis and the nation, DIVINE Magazine, a magazine for the Christian lifestyle. Check her out at www.myspace.com/divinemagazine.
It’s me, back again. I hope as you read this you are aware of all of your blessings. At the very least, you have eyes to see, right? I thought I’d start you off with something encouraging. We all need it from time to time.
Just yesterday, a friend and I were talking about life and the cards that we are dealt going through this journey. Think about all of the things, fortunate and unfortunate, that happen to us in the blink of an eye. Possibly, it was that very thing that we tried to keep from happening, but for some reason, it was unavoidable—inevitable even. My friend pointed out that we don’t have control over those things. And I added my favorite line these days, “well, it is what it is…”
How ironic that a sermon at church was titled the same thing? It is true that our situations are what they are. But it shouldn’t dictate our outlook on life or how content we are because (in my opinon), God has it all under His control. Aside from giving our situations to Him, there are also some additional things we can do. I think He sends us signs via thoughts, people and situations to make us better, stronger and able to cope with what’s going on. I found this email I received recently:
10 Virtually Instant Ways to Improve Your Life
Many of our problems come from within our own minds. They aren't caused by events, bad luck, or other people. We cause them through our own poor mental habits. Here are 10 habits you should set aside right away to free yourself from the many problems each one will be causing you.
1. Stop jumping to conclusions. There are two common ways this habit increases people's difficulties. First, they assume that they know what is going to happen, so they stop paying attention and act on their assumption instead. Human beings are lousy fortune-tellers. Most of what they assume is wrong. That makes the action wrong too. The second aspect of this habit is playing the mind-reader and assuming you know why people do what they do or what they're thinking. Wrong again, big time. More relationships are destroyed by this particular kind of stupidity than by any other. Ask yourself how many potential opportunities were missed because of bad assumptions. Some of the world's worst sales people are gold medal winners in conclusion jumping.
2. Don't dramatize. Lots of people inflate small setbacks into life-threatening catastrophes and react accordingly. This habit makes mountains out of molehills and gives people anxieties that either don't exist or are so insignificant they aren't worth worrying about anyway. Why do they do it? Who knows? Maybe to make themselves feel and seem more important. Whatever the reason, it's silly as well as destructive. Everyone makes a point to avoid the drama queens and kings of this world.
3. Don't invent rules just for the sake of rules. A huge proportion of those "oughts" and "shoulds" that you carry around are most likely needless. All that they do for you is make you feel nervous or guilty. What's the point? When you use these imaginary rules on yourself, you clog your mind with petty restrictions and childish orders. And when you try to impose them on others, you make yourself into a bully, a boring nag, or a self-righteous bigot.
4. Avoid stereotyping or labeling people or situations. The words you use can trip you up. Negative and critical language produces the same flavor of thinking. Forcing things into pre-set categories hides their real meaning and limits your thinking to no purpose. See what's there. Don't label. You'll be surprised at what you find. 5. Quit being a perfectionist. Life isn't all or nothing, black or white. Many times, good enough means exactly what it says. Search for the perfect job and you'll likely never find it. Meanwhile, all the others will look worse than they are. Try for the perfect relationship and you'll probably spend your life alone. Perfectionism is a mental sickness that will destroy all your pleasure and send you in search of what can never be attained. Don't let great become the enemy of good.
6. Don't over-generalize. One or two setbacks are not a sign of permanent failure. The odd triumph doesn't turn you into a genius. A single event--good or bad--or even two or three don't always point to a lasting trend. Usually things are just what they are, nothing more. 7. Don't take things so personally. Most people, even your friends and colleagues, aren't talking about you, thinking about you, or concerned with you at all for 99% of the time. The majority of folk in your organization or neighborhood have probably never heard of you and don't especially want to. The ups and downs of life, the warmth and coldness of others, aren't personal at all. Pretending that they are will only make you more miserable than is needed.
8. Don't assume your emotions are trustworthy. How you feel isn't always a good indicator of how things are. Just because you feel it, that doesn't make it true. Sometimes that emotion comes from nothing more profound than being tired, hungry, annoyed, or about to get a head-cold. The future won't change because you feel bad--nor because you feel great. Feelings may be true, but they aren't the truth.9. Don't let life get you down. Keep practicing being optimistic. If you expect bad things in your life and work, you'll always find them. A negative mind-set is like looking at the world through distorting, grimy lenses. You spot every blemish and overlook or discount everything else. It's amazing what isn't there until you start to look for it. Of course, if you decide to look for signs of positive things, you'll find those too.
10. Don't hang on to the past. This is my most important suggestion of all: let go and move on. Most of the anger, frustration, misery, and despair in this world come from people clinging to past hurts and problems. The more you turn them over in your mind, the worse you'll feel and the bigger they'll look. Don't try to fight misery. Let go and move on. Do that and you've removed just about all its power to hurt you.
How many of these have you done in the past? I know I’m guilty of quite of few them. Just recently, I got some feedback about my writing. Oh yeah, newsflash: It’s my dream to do this type of thing full-time. I guess writing is my gift and passion. Anyway, on the quest to get my writing published in as many publications as possible, I fell on my pa-tooty. After completing a writing test for publication, I got the no-sir from the editor. I can’t lie–I was mad! But again, it is what it is.
I was on point. Or, so I thought! I agree with some comments, but not all. In my younger years, I viewed any little thing someone said as an insult, rather than constructive criticism. See, I have this issue with perfection (see # 5). I thought that I always had to do things right, with no mistakes, the first time around. Especially in academia and writing. This is my thing, ya know?
If the truth be told, as I type this, there may be several typos and journalism errors. I hope not that many, but oh well. Do you know what I say? Dust yourself off and try again (and use grammar/spell-check). As I continue to grow, I must remember that I cannot stay in the same mindframe, circumstances and situations. After all, isn’t that the very opposite of growth? Now, instead of pouting about the things I did WRONG, I find out how to correct my mistakes, do better and move on.
Yes, I know this is a MEMPHIS blog, but it's still MY blog and Louisiana will always be a part of my life, so here goes....
Two years ago this week, the national jewel, known as New Orleans, Louisiana was changed forever with the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. How I remember it so. I was an hour away for my grandmother's funeral. No, I am not a native, but my family is from the city and I've spent many days there, just enjoying the culture and way of life that can only be found there. New Orleans has a special place in my heart.
A rally, 8/29: A Day of Presence, was held in New Orleans to mark the storm, with speakers and government officals, including Mr. Chocolate City, himself, Mayor Ray Nagin and even President Bush (finally). You'll also see some other familiar faces. Shout out to Southern University/Law Center alumnus, Edward "Ted" James, ESQ for letting me use his pictures.
Lecturer and author Michael Dyson
Essence Magazine editor, Susan Taylor
The star of the show (in my opinion), Phyllis Montana LeBlanc, from “When the Levees Broke.” If you saw (and you should have!), you know she is REAL!
She even does photo ops! Ted James, ESQ with Ms. LeBlanc
Two years later, after families have been displaced and loved ones have passed, New Orleanians and Gulf Coast residents are still picking up the pieces trying to rebuild their lives and in some cases, their homes in "Tha City". I won't stand on my soapbox and talk about the government's lack of support or compare their response to the Tsunami devastation. I'd rather show you.
As you can see, there's still work to be done. We all have a job to do. Despite, the dilapidated buildings and water-tred streets, it is people and the spirit of the city that makes it so beautiful. The culture, the food, the music...
Unless you have been in hibernation, you should have heard about the Jena 6 by now. As in Jena, Louisiana, a small town in northern Louisiana. Read the story here. The latest news is students were banned from wearing the Jena 6 t-shirts at school. What is this world coming to? This is 2007, not 1965! If you have not done so, sign the petition at the NAACP website, here.
On a lighter note,
I'll be in front of my TV with my blue and gold shakers tomorrow. GO JAGS!
Last week seemed to have a theme—domestic violence. After hearing about the beating of televangleist, Juanita Bynum by her estranged husband, Bishop Thomas Weeks, I gave a long hard thought about domestic violence and what takes people to the brink of insanity (if not totally there) to physically harm someone they supposedly love.
That was followed by a news story from Houston sent to me about a young mother and divorcee who was killed in front of her classmates by her jealous ex-husband. I thought then, "Wow...what is REALLY going on?"
The very next day, I was told that my Big Sister and Soror, Lauren Robinson, was allegedly killed by her fiancee'. They were to be married in December, living the picture perfect life in Baton Rouge, LA. He killed himself, as well. Even today, after I've seen the news videos and memorials of her, it still seems surreal--unreal. How could this have happened? It just doesn't make sense. What about their lives, her life? What about the closure that her mother, family and friends will never receive because there was no inking of a problem in their relationship?
She was a sweet young lady, smart and willing to help anyone. Now she's gone. I'm praying for her family in their time of sorrow and everyone affected by the tragedy. I'm praying for the fiancee' and his family, as well.
If you are in a troubled relationship, it's okay to let someone know. Ironically, my pastor mentioned yesterday that saying "I'm alright...I'm okay...I'm good" is not the answer. Sometimes we have to break down and tell God, our family, our close friends what's going on with us. I think it's in our human nature, especially African Americans to "mind our own business." That's a great rule to by...sometimes. Other times, it can be detrimental to someone we love.
Take the masks off and tell someone what you're going through before it's too late. Tell someone you love them before it's too late.
So finally, I can sit down and focus long enough to do the post that I’ve been trying to post for two weeks. Last I chatted with you, I told you what I was thankful for. The thankfulness and praise to God is still in effect. Won’t stop, can’t stop! But here’s what’s really been going on with me…
In June I traveled to Baton Rouge to see my sweetie-pie linesister, Candace tie the knot her her honey, Regi. Not only was it a chance to witness two lovely people and their families becoming one, but it was a chance to see all of my linesisters. Can you say REUNION? Being back in Baton Rouge, affectionately known as the Big Ragedy, brought back so many memories. I remember freshman year like yesterday! In 1.5 days, we managed to go out, have cocktails, enjoy the wedding festivities and end the weekend with brunch at a LS’s beautiful new home. See……
Party Girls
Candace with Alpha Tau Chapter, Spring 2003
Swingin’ out with the bride Louisiana style!
Cocktails anyone?
Next, I got my culture game up by learning how to make sushi from the none other than certified sushi chef and Memphis resident, Marissa Baggett. Baggett is the first African American woman to become a certified sushi chef at the California Sushi Academy. Owner of the now defunct Chocolate Giraffe and former head sushi chef at Do Restaurant in Memphis, Baggett now owns her own catering business, specializing in special occaision desserts (she’s catering her own wedding!) and sushi parties. Check her out at www.marissabaggett.com. We actually made the sushi ourselves and it was delish!
Marissa showing Erica how to rollll with it!
Look at what we made! The first time I’ve eaten sushi with raw eel!
Cheese!
If you’re in the Bluff City and have a taste for sushi, check these places out:
Bluefin-a hip lounge in Downtown Memphis with an in-house DJ. The atmosphere is hot and….blue, of course!
Do (like Doe)-a small sushi cafe in the swag Cooper-Young area of town. A very hot spot for the summer
Stix-a sushi bar and habachi restaurant in the east. The lights are always low and the flames are always high.
Next..... The Southern University (my alma mater!) Jaguars painted the town blue and gold during the Alumni Federation National Conference. It was great seeing my Jaguars, young and old, members of the administration and old professors. Fun times were had by all, especially during Southern Night at the classy Gibson Guitar Lounge. My favorite band, Will Graves and Soul kept us dancing all night. Pictures coming soon.
And we hung out for a friend's birthday at guess where? Bluefin!
Main Street, Downtown Memphis
And I cannot forget the Mike Epps Comedy Show for the CGI Entertainment Can I Live Weekend 2007. Mike Epps, along with host, Nard and other national comedic acts were hilarious! If he’s coming to your city, DO NOT miss it! Check out N D Loop for the latest information and pictures of Memphis’ hottest events.
So what's up next?
I Have Swagger, Do You?
Swagger Fashion Show: Where Music and Fashion Meet-Sunday, July 29
This is sure to be the hottest fashion show Memphis has ever seen. Sponsored by Allure Marketing, Swagger will feauture some of the city's freshest models and fashion designers at the world-renowed, posh Peabody Hotel. You can still get tickets at Allure. Support our talent and young sistas doing their thing. I am!
Off the Cuff: R.I.P. to yet another magazine for young multicultural women. VIBE VIXEN has gone under, joining Suede and many others. As I said in my first post, I'm glad we got our Honey back!
It’s been sooo loooong, hasn’t it? Yep, I’ve been M.I.A. (missing in action). Life happens though. I’ve actually tried to post several times, but there was an error in posting. I have some things I’d like to share with you all, but it will have to wait until tonight (when I can get my camera). Anyway, this beehive hasn’t lost its buzz. Work is picking up and new things are happening everyday. Today, instead of the pictures, events and things going on in the M, I’m going to reflect on the good things in life. And you should, too! Here goes nothing:
I woke up this morning. If you’re reading this, you did, too. But think about how many people didn’t.
My daddy, who has been sick for awhile now, is getting so much better. He even came to church last Sunday.
Hope does not take away your problems. It can lift you above them.
-Maya Angelou
My grandmother will celebrate her 80th birthday next month and she’s still a live one.
I am protected from the things I see and even those that I don’t see.
Even though I said I would NEVER go back to school, I am starting two online classes on wealth building and investing today.
Our dreams push us towards our destiny.
My 401k will kick in this week!
People actually read my blog (both of them!). Lil’ ole me. Thanks to everyone who emailed me by way of Honey.
You may not think you can reach it. Climb anyway. You may not think you’ll be heard. Speak anyway.
You may not think you can change things. Try anyway.
-Maya Angelou
I have friends and family who love me for who I am. You can’t beat that.
Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination, full of hope.
-Maya Angelou
There’s so much more that I could write, but I am at work, ya know. Those quotes came from a book sitting on my desk that I rarely pick up. LOL. Have a blessed day and remember the good things. As always, read about the good, bad, beautiful and ugly at Quarterlife Mocha Girl.
