Beyonce- Year of 4

Tags: MTV Shows

King Beyonce gives her fans a taste of what her year of being a homebody was like. She also gives her fans insight into her creative process.

Marsha Ambrosius- Late Nights Early Mornings

I know I am late posting this video but I am glad I had the opportunity to watch it. As much as I love Marsha Ambrosius, her album just did not cut  it for me. I listened to three songs in particular and this song  was one of them. I liked the whole Prince vibe when I listened to it. And might I add that the sexual content of the song also made me girlishly giggle. When looking at the video, besides staring at Marsha's clothes (white jumpsuit and the black and white striped shirt) and the gorgeous man she has her love interest, I was confused at first glance not understanding the symbols above the characters' heads. By the second viewing, the song had a totally different meaning. A song about a sweaty love making session turned into a safe sex lesson. It seems as if Marsha is bringing out her inner advocate for such issues as suicide, indifference (Far Away) and showing that it is cool to have sex as long as it is protected sex. The video has an interesting spin to thinking of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.It seems to be displaying "Don't have unprotected sex. If you happen to do it, get tested".  I won't be suprised if I hear this song or see her face for condoms in the near future.

Embarking on a new journey

Today was my first day at work... or may I say a career. I know I am extremely secretive about what I do for a living but I think it's for my best interest. Today was orientation. I met so many different people. I am ready for my new journey to begin. YAY!!!

Chicago

Chicago Transit

Hey gurlies. As always I come back to posting days after I have been somewhere or notice that I have neglected the followers that ChimiandCarly has. I never mean to be late at posting but sometimes life happens. Last week, I had the opportunity of visiting Chicago. This was my second time in Chicago but a very different visit. To accompany me, my friend Ky'Osha aka KyWilli came along for the festivities. We had booked this trip WAAAAYYYY in advance and finally would be able to kick back and enjoy the festivities. We booked the flight and hotel for the estimated price of $458, which was a complete steal. The weekend we decided to go happened to be one of the most POPPIN' weekends in Chicago. We went down originally for the Taste of Chicago and to celebrate Ky'Osha's 24th birthday. When we got there we found so much more to do... Chicago Pride, fashion show, and a grand prize.

Chicago Theater

Day 1 (Thursday): When we first got to Chicago, we gathered our belongings and set off to take the train. On my handy dandy Iphone, there is this application I used (HopStop) that made me feel as if I was a native all weekend. I was able to plan trips in advance and save them as a reference. So, from Midway Airport we hopped on the Orange line and got off on Roosevelt, to search for our hotel, Essex Inn. Essex Inn, was in a perfect area. Right in the Loop and across the street from Grant Park, Essex was the perfect pick. When we dropped off our stuff, we set out to find a CVS or a local drug store since I had to throw out my hair oil (8oz.) and my facial wash (4oz.) which were over the limit. When we found the drugstore, we decided to see what else the area had to offer. We walked up one block and ended up on State Street. Finding State Street was like opening up a can of worms. State Street was like retail heaven. It had every store I could imagine on one strip. Zara, H&M, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Aldo, Forever 21, and the list goes on. I think we went to every store. About 4 hours later, we finally went to Tamarind, an Asian fusion restaurant to get sushi. The decor in Tamarind was very cute. After our lovely dinner, in a fat girl moment we went next door to Harold's the local chicken spot. Harold's was calling our name when we first went past going to the CVS. When we walked in Harold's there was a sea of men in Black and Gold. Men in suits, ties and bowties filled the establishment. Of course Ky'osha thought she was in heaven. We found out it was the Alpha (A Phi A)convention. We ordered a three piece and left to go back to the hotel. Back at the hotel we had a domestic mishap next door to us that required authorities. I had to be a whistleblower in this situation for safety purposes. Once I called down to the front desk, security came upstairs and knocked on the door. When that was taken care of, we were able to sleep.

It's a Celebration!

So, today is my sister, Charnette's 23rd Birthday! This post is dedicated to her!
I am happy to say that my sister is coming into her own! Wishing her sincere and utter happiness on her special day!

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Happy Birthday!

This post is dedicated to our friend KyWilli! Today is her birthday! She is a follower of our blog. More importantly, she is our beloved friend. While Chimi and KyWilli are in Chicago, I know they will find various great things to do to bring in her bday right!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KYWILLI!!

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My Last Day at work

Friday was my last day at my job. Like many of my posts had stated, I have been looking for other opportunities. I always wondered what my purpose in life would be. I am in the right profession but where I was, I was beginning to get bored because of my position and often seeked more of a leadership position. Three weeks ago, I had an interview and received the position on the spot. It was hard to come up to my supervisor without tears in my eyes to tell her I was moving on. I love my supervisor dearly. She hugged me back and told me she was proud and said she knew I would get the position. It was hard to write my letter of resignation. I looked to google for answers because it was hard to put into words why I was leaving or the fact that I couldn't think because I was still in shock that I was leaving. This place is what I called my job after I was pink slipped. I built relationships, improved my craft, and touched a few lives as they did mine.

Thrifting Thursdays

Good Morning. So in order to make a comeback of posting, I am adding everything that I did the week prior and weeks to come so I can be on top of everything. Thursday, (June 16) I went to the Thrift Store. It felt like forever because I haven't been in a long time. I got off of work at 3:30pm that day and decided to venture out. A train and bus ride later, I was at Unique Thrift/Value Village. I walk in and there is a bunch of commotion. I soon realize that it was a 25% off day at the thrift store as long as one had the discount card. I have a card but of all days I left it at home nor could I apply for one to get the percentage off. In my sadness, I glanced at the jewelry and made my way back to the clothing. The way the thrift store is set up, it looks like a department store. Children's and men's clothes are at the front and women have the large section in the back. I walked all around Unique Thrift and bought only a black clutch for $1.99.

Frank Ocean- Novacane

Gotta Love Frank Ocean. I did a post on him prior just to admire him. He's finally been signed to Def Jam and will release his mixtape Nostalgia ULTRA on the label. I'm excited about his new deal and he will have new songs added upon the mixtapes release. Novacane, started the whole movement or interest in Frank Ocean for Carly and I. Her music friend at work told her to check him out and a few months later, I hear Frank on the radio and people besides Carly and I are digging him.

frank ocean [novacane] from christopher francis ocean on Vimeo.

I like the video's imagery. I can actually see the effects of the Novacane. The smoke images are also dope. Enjoy!!!

Born this Way- Lady Gaga

Fist pump....
To keep with the LGBT theme, I decided to post "Born this way" by Gaga. I mean I hated this song just like any other song I hear a million times. I guess it takes one million and one for me to appreciate the song. A friend and I have been singing this song to death. I have not idea how the words go, I just sing. She told me that the dancing in this video was divine. I had to view it for myself. Enjoy!!!

Lady Gaga: Born This Way, Directed by Nick Knight, SHOWstudio.com from SHOWstudio on Vimeo.
I think I just like the song. The video was a little weird for me. I'm not exactly a Little Monster but I do appreciate Gaga for the artist she is. Whenever I hear this song I think of Vogue or watching the most ultimate fist pump.

Capital Pride

Morning. I know I haven't posted in about a week. I have been busy preparing for my last day at work (post coming). Last weekend (June 11), I went to the Capital Pride parade in DC. Like I had stated prior, I am a gay enthusiast or maybe I should use the word supporter. I support the gay movement. People may have their negative opinions of gays but I befriend them. When I got to the parade it was over. I missed the parade messing with my friend. Though I had missed all of the paraders, it seemed as if the event was not over. In Dupont Circle people were still partying. People were hanging out around and in the fountain. Women had their boobs exposed (legal in DC) and people were being regular old gay. Overall, I enjoyed myself with my band of lesbians. We walked around and I was encouraging my friend to talk to females. As she would reject passerbys, I would laugh because their approach was very similar to a males and even maybe a little more respectful. More photos after the jump...

Square Biz

Good morning and Happy Friday all!
I am getting ready for work and can't help but feel obligated to these dry ass work clothes. Just last night I was tellin Chimi how square I feel when I have to go to work. I feel like I am in a box, trapped by black and grey slacks and whatever color blouse I wear. Most times, a cardigan is my saving grace.
What is more is that the place that I work is retail. Being a department store that has cheapened the merchandise it gets in, I don't feel like the dress code should be as strict as it is. After all, where I work is not a Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, nor Neiman Marcus. Anyhow, I have to find a way to step out of this box. Having tattoos isn't very helpful, but they're mine and I wouldn't trade them (laser them off), so I work around them. Its almost summer and less is better, but I have to consider professionalism and this stupid dress-code. Perhaps this is a challenge that myself and others can follow: Dressing cool, professional, and out of the box. Now I know Chimi did a professional attire challenge, but she didn't have a strict dress code to follow. Maybe she could help me out. Hmmm...

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This Goes Out To You!

Well, today is another day of celebration! My baby sister Janee' is graduating from ACT College. Graduating from the Dental Assisting Program, I hope that she can build a career of greatness. I am so proud of her and I hope she is proud of herself.
Now, this graduation is slow, drab and needs to pick up the pace. Janee' has a wonderful support system waiting to marvel at her as she steps on that stage and gets her degree/certificate. Its almost 7pm and kids are getting restless, stomachs are growling and cameras are ready. Despite the lack of preparation, we here to celebrate Nado! Congrats lil sis!

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Entertainment

Seeing this guy dancing to Beyonce's song was entertaining! Enjoy

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Super and Sticky

Good morning!
I am feeling up to posting, so lemme tell you about yesterday's fun. After seeing my cousin graduate, I got a chance to hang with my youngest sister. We went to Super Nails. I haven't been there in ages (one of my fave nail tech's, Helen, reminded me of this). We both got our nails and toes done.
Now of course while in the nail salon there is, more often than not, shennanigans and foolery goin on. First up, a "sista big bone" walks in. When asked what she needs, she claims her doctor said she could no longer get pedicures. However, she wanted someone to polish her feet. I think that's a bit gross (someone polishin ur dirty, black feet without havin washed them). The nail tech agreed and sent her on her way.
Next, three "chica big bones" came in to get there pedicures. Now, when I go to a nail salon and become familiar with a good nail tech, I try to go to the same person. This one Latina said it didn't matter who did her feet. Hence, the rookie of the shop, a male nail tech, took her and did her pedicure. Never once did she express her dislike of the service until he finished and asked her what polish. I felt it was her fault she got set up. They talked to the owner of the shop like they'd been there before and knew who they wanted. She said it didn't matter and in the end she was dissatisfied and had to get her fat toes re-done.
Then, we have four people come and try to sell everything from perfume, socks, Muslim oil, to Oriental fans. (Thank You, but nooooo thank u!)
After the nail salon, my sister and I went to Sticky Rice. Gosh, I love it at this restaurant! I was surprised and happy she liked her dishes and mine. We grubbed on tater tots with their special sauce, California Rolls (made with real lump crabmeat), Mongolian Beef with Udon noodles, and Curry Fried Rice with Shrimp. Let's just say after paying and getting to-go boxes, we were walking in slow motion, lol. All in all, this weekend has been pretty decent

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Cheers to the graduate!

Hey All!
Today is a marvelous day. My baby Tia graduated from high school. I am amazed and so very proud of her! I actually started tearing up when she made her speech and then came down the steps. The look of completion and accomplishment never looked so good! '>Post

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Beyonce: Full Throttle

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For some apparent reason when Beyonce went on a hiatus, my focus became Rihanna. Though the two artists resignate differently in my mind, Beyonce is taking back what was hers. The way I see it is she let people shine for a few before she leaped back to the stage. Beyonce is everywhere. In recent news, B is covering Dazed and Confused. She looks uber tough in her photos. Real bad ass. I like this for her. Shedding the bumblegum pop persona for a more edgier image.

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Dougie in my P*ssy

Joanne Prada, is iconic. I know you probably do not know who she is but she's a riot. My sister was the first to introduce me to her via one of my visits to Long Island. If you love her after this video, look her up on Youtube.com

There goes my bangs, BITCH!!!

Honey Chile!!!! For the fact that it is Capital Gay Weekend, I am attending some of the festivities. I am not gay but I am an enthusiast. I love the GAYS and everything about them. So to commemorate this joyous occasion, I am posting some of the funniest videos made by gay men. Coochieness is a hot mess. Carly and I was singing this song this morning so I had to post it. I hope you dolls enjoy it as much as me.

Influence

INFLUENCERS FULL VERSION from R+I creative on Vimeo.

Last night, the dude had asked me "What is the most contagious thing in the world?"  Of course with me being all sappy I said Love. He shook his head and stated it was "an idea". He said " Once an idea is displayed, it catches on." When I actually thought about it, it made a whole lot of sense. Ideas can be extremely influential. I am seeing now that other people's ideas are what I mold to make my own. So then the overarching question becomes "Am I as original as I present myself to be?" Ask yourself the same. 

My first pair of TOMS

Yesterday was a very exciting day at my job. Let's just say that we had a visit from very special lady thats husband is the HNIC. I'll just keep that for what it is. Yesterday, I worked a very long shift and got off early. Before going to see the Louder than a Bomb, the dude and I parked the car and walked to Georgetown. That was so the wrong idea. I had on some yellow open toed flats that were killing my feet along the cobblestone pavement. I was walking extremely slow and decided to stop in Urban Outfitters. The first thing I looked for was the TOMS section. I picked a pair of red shoes, paid and snailed out of the store. I walked to Old Glory, a Southern BBQ spot and put them babies on. After we grubbed (mainly him. I had lemonade) we made our way back to the theater. I was so excited about my TOMS that I have them on as I write this. My feet are in heaven. I'm even contemplating on buying some other ones.

Louder than a Bomb

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Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the screening of Louder than a Bomb at West End Cinemas. Louder than a Bomb is a documentary based on a High School slam poetry contest in Chicago that brings together different walks of life to display their poetic talents. The film follows the journey of four high school students and their teams. The doc also looks at their life experiences and how it imitates their art. I have to admit that this film is breathtaking. I had many moments where my head was nodding and face was in a constant stank face because of these students' delivery of their poetry. This is a must see. I promise you will not be dissatisfied. The film comes to selected theatres on June 10th.

For more information, check out http://www.louderthanabombfilm.com/

Louder Than a Bomb documentary demo from Siskel/Jacobs Productions on Vimeo.

Weekend Recap

Good evening lovelies. I am finally finished with school and the summer is beginning. I know I used that statement before but this time it is true. This weekend I had to say good-bye to one of my best male friends. Though we had beef prior and it was still a swollen wound, he moved on. As a film director, he has a lot in front of him. He's about to make big moves and I am proud of him. In order to make his last day special, I was the head of the party committee. I sent invitations to his cupcake social, bought 3 dozen cupcakes (costing me $71), and had helpers along the way. When the party started only about 10 people came. That made me a little salty considering that when you ask people to RSVP for stuff they usually don't show up and those that do not RSVP are the people there. Anyway, we had a great time. He was the man of the hour and that was not the last celebration. After work, those that were not able to attend the cupcake social, went to his going away Happy Hour at Alero's. Alero's brings back so many memories of my drunkard past. I left his party early stumbling to get home. When I got home I fell asleep.

Saturday morning, I woke up at 5:30 am to focus on my final paper for my writing course. I received some help and was on my way to my 9am-5pm class (a damn job). Of course I didn't finish the paper like I was supposed to so, while others were presenting, I went to a computer to try to get my paper together. I presented my paper and took my seat as others presented. Finally, at about 3pm, my teacher decided that we would be able to go home early. Relieved, I made my way to Virginia to visit the dude. He told me he had a surprise for me. Like everything else, I tried to guess where or what it was. It wasn't until his brother slipped and said we were going to Herndon to a carnival. When we got to Herndon, the parking was ridiculous. We had to park in the residential area and walk to the carnival. It was an abundance of people out there. We had to walk through the games in order to get to the main gates to ride the rides. The dude paid for the tickets and we walked to get on the Street Fighter, a swinging pendulum that spun. After the wackness which was the Street Fighter, we got on the Samauri, a swinging ride that spun its passengers like a yo-yo. We ended our night watching the fireworks.

Sunday, the dude and I set out to Eastern Market to see what new things we could pick  up. This trip to Eastern Market was a rushed one because nothing interested us. That made me think of how horrible I have been to the thrift store. I have not seen its face in a minute. Maybe a few months. I might have to make a very special visit soon (like this weekend).

Grandma's Birthday

Today marks the 82nd birthday of Thelma Lawrence, my deceased grandmother. I cannot believe she is gone. I can remember like it was yeaterday with her taking my siblings and I all over New York and showing us the ropes. My favorite moments will always be when she took us to Coney Island, an amusement park in Brooklyn. When we used to go she used to let us ride whatever we wanted and before we left, she would make sure to stop at the candy shop by the train station to get treats. I would always opted for the carmel candied apple. I truly miss my grandmother and her antics. She was full of life, stories and messages. She will and always be my heart.

The Plight of the Dark Skinned Woman

Dark Girls: Preview from Bradinn French on Vimeo.

While I was over at Natural Belle, I saw this clip. I had to post it because it boiled my skin. I think was bothered me the most was the fact black people were feaured in the clip downing their own people. That hurts. It reminds of School Daze in all actuality. It's very upsetting to know that intraracism is still a factor that still continues to bring people to a standstill.