TESTS

Just playing around with a "few: of my favorites things to get to what I'm envisioning.



Chocolate Orchid



Christian Louboutin booties

avocados

green juice

source

Post Title → TESTS

RANDOM FRIDAY ON BBCA'S "BEING HUMAN"

Let me just first admit that I love the BBCA channel. They bring some awesome, sci-fi/fantasy/supernatural shows. From “Dr. Who” to “Torchwood” to “Primeval” to “Being Human”. Awwwh…. “Being Human”. I am a huge fan of this show. It’s basically about a group of not-so-normal friends trying to live a normal life.


You have Mitchell, the sexy-ass vampire, trying his damndest to live without spilling human blood.

Aidan Turner

There’s George, the good and somewhat socially challenged werewolf.

Russell Tovey

Nina, George’s werewolf girlfriend/baby-to-be-mama, who’s spitfire personality helps to balance George’s quirkiness.

Sinead Keenan

And last but not least, Annie, the sweet & friendly ghost.

Lenora Crichlow

Not to be confused with the current American version that comes on the Syfy channel. I mean, don’t get me wrong. They’re the same basic show but the American version feels so rushed. Hell, it’s the 1st season and the werewolf’s girlfriend is already knocked-up. Not cool.

However, BBCA’s “Being Human” has taken the time to develop the characters to the point where you don’t feel like it’s some quick, fly-by-night romance where you don’t even know what the other person is allergic to or where you're not quite sure how to spell their last name correctly. No. This show is on its 3rd season, in which, by the way, the werewolf’s girlfriend is pregnant. Thank you.

Anyhoo, I absolutely cannot wait for Saturday night’s season finale. Last week’s episode had me screaming and talking to the TV. Well, actually the characters. Er, uh… It’s great TV so give me a pass people. Lol.

Holla at me if you’re a fan of the BBC version. Btw, I do watch the American version but I’m not that fond of it but I am trying to give it a chance.


Have an awesome weekend!

Post Title → RANDOM FRIDAY ON BBCA'S "BEING HUMAN"

I'VE BEEN FEATURED!!

Hola  Gorgeous Ones!

Just had to mention that I was featured on the lovely Miss Moon's Musings blog. Love her features on fashion, music, food and more.

Go over and check the my BaBs (Bad-ass Bloggers) feature here.

Post Title → I'VE BEEN FEATURED!!

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!! IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!

Hola Beauties!

Today's my birthday. Right off the heels of my super-busy, Cheersport Nationals filled weekend.
So guess what?... Yes, you're right. Lol. I'll be taking this week off from blogging.
Will be back here on next Monday.

Have an awesome week, Lovelies!
{{Hugs}},

Post Title → IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!! IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!

THE HAUTENESS OF YOUNIKNESS JEWELRY

Younikness Earrings

I just could not wait to post about these earrings. I actually was trying to take photos of them once I receive my new cam but the hauteness of these girls got the best of me. I absolutely could not wait to wear them.

Back in December, Younikness.com had a major marketing campaign sponsoring several Christmas gift giveaways on several blogs. I was fortunate enough to be a winner of one of these giveaways, receiving two earrings of my choice.

Get ready for many a pic of me posing featuring these fly ass earrings.

Younikness "Black Piper" earrings

Younikness "Black Piper" earrings.

Younikness "Grey Cloud" earrings

Btw, these are my favorite pair.


Younikness "Grey Cloud" earrings.



See me tryin' to ANTM pose. Haha!!
 Oh, I'm gonna be such a terror when I get my new cam. Lol.

For the record: I do not favor the "bra-strap showing" look...on me. Wore a cardi over this & took it off to get a better pic of the earring.

I am so in love with these earrings.
I'm a definitely a customer now. I've already "wishlisted" a few more earrings on the web store.
You can peruse and purchase at the site. Just click on the link below.

Younikness

"The place where you will find exceptional handcrafted jewelry and accessories made for you,

who is not afraid to be yourself and unique."

Not sure if I'll post again til next week. No, can't say I'm going to Fro Fashion Week. I wish. I'll actually be setting up camp at the superbowl of competitive cheerleading, Cheersport Nationals. Hopefully, both events won't be on the same weekend next year.
Ttyl,

Post Title → THE HAUTENESS OF YOUNIKNESS JEWELRY

FRIDAY FREEBIES - STYLISH BLOGGER AWARDS

Happy Friday, Gorgeous!


I hope that you each and everyone of you has had a great week. If not, then work on making the rest of this day & weekend great! =)

I have to shout out Renee of Naima's Closet who nominated me for the Stylish Blogger award. So sweet. And surprising. I never saw it coming. Go check her blog out. I just love style blogs.

Upon finding out about my nomination, I immediately began to ponder how stylish I've been on this blog. And I couldn't think of much beyond snippets here and there, so I decided to live up more to the standards of style and share with you some things that my eyes (and heart) are set on.

But before I do that, to participate in this award, I must share with you...


Seven things about me that you may not know!

1. I an fascinated with Asia, especially Japan and their culture. I am determined to get the country within the next 10 years.
2. I still find Sean Connery sexy. Yes.
3. I can be a sucker for tears. The operative word is "can".
4. I'm way over due for a professional makeover. As in 10 yrs overdue. I'm working on it.Lol.
5. Sushi is my new food love. And yes, I'm still detoxing without it and other stuff. No worries.
6. I love love love Christian Louboutin shoes. And am determined to get me my 1st pair this year. Not sure how that will work out, but I trust that it just will. ;)
7. Definitely getting a tatto this year.

Now, onto my way of living up to my new awards standards. =)


Christian Louboutin Fifi pumps

I've fallen in love with these shoes. Normally, I'm not a big fan of lace (unless on bra/panty sets) but these right here are just lovely. I can see me sporting them with a pencil skirt and bow-tie blouse, a nice pair of trousers or trouser jeans. * In my best Gollum (Lord of the Rings) impression.* "My precious...."



Christian Louboutin Elisa pumps

  I need a new pair of black pumps and these would work so well. Just love the cut of this shoe.





Christian Louboutin Rolando Zip

 I just love the zipper detail on the back of this shoe. I really tried to find a picture showing the back but unfortunately could not. Just take my word for it. I love pieces that are simple with a touch of funk or some sort of detail. This shoe is hot!

Christian Louboutin Loubout booties

Gorgeous spring bootie. Just gorgeous. I'd rock these with any damn thing. *sighs*

7 For All Manking "Ginger" jeans

Uh, yes. Mama wants (and really needs) some trouser jeans. Love the look of these. I could wear my C.L. Fifi shoes or the Loubout booties with these so well.



Laundry by Shelli Segal "ikat" printed shirtdress

I certainly need some more dresses in my wardrobe. And I would so rock this dress. Wanna see what shoes I'd wear with it?.....

orange pumps
Not sure if these are authentic Louboutins.

I have been fienen' for some orange pumps. And they don't necessarily have to be Louboutins. Haha.


Okay, I think I've barraged you enough with some things that have me salivating. Lol. And I'm sure I'm not the only person who has some fashion/style wants.
So please share.... I'd love to know.

Have a great weekend!

Post Title → FRIDAY FREEBIES - STYLISH BLOGGER AWARDS

MAMA'S PRESSING "PAUSE"

Hi Beautifuls!

Just wanted to let you all know that I'm pressing the "pause" button on the blog until after the holidays. This year, I've suddenly gotten the audacity and unmitigated gall to have a semblance of a social life. Lol. Only thing is, you tend to need a bit more recoop time when your past those wonderful college years along with the added responsibilities of things like motherhood, career, relationships, marriage and fill-in-the-blank."

Anyhoo, I have lunch with a friend and two more parties to go. One of which is a full-blown New Year's Eve soiree'. So excited about that! Got the dress and pullin' out the leopard-print stilettos for that one. =)
I know. Just who do I think I am?! Haha!!

I do hope that you all are enjoying your lives, focusing on living it to the fullest, and staying on a path that is fulfilling and brings you happiness. Remember, you have to be happy with you before anyone around you can be happy with you.

So please excuse me whilst I allow life to get in the way. ;)

Wishing you all the best and most awesome!
See you lovelies in the new year!
{{Hugs}},

Post Title → MAMA'S PRESSING "PAUSE"

I'M OUTTIE!!

Be back on Monday. 'Til then feel free to peruse previous posts. I'll definitely find time to do some blog visiting. =)

Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, I wish you all peace, love, laughter and joy during this and all times.

{{Hugs}},

Post Title → I'M OUTTIE!!

FRIDAY FREEBIES - Adventures In Gatlinburg

One of the things that I’ve decided to add to this blog is the “Friday Freebies” series. “Friday Freebies” are free posts that may or may not have anything to do with the general topics of this blog. Meaning these posts will be about anything that may be on my mind, they may be me answering a reader question, a rant, an observation, etc. etc.



So here goes!.... Btw, this is a slightly long one so consider yourself forewarned on that.


Pic of the town of Gatlinburg, TN.



I do not like heights. This fact was not birthed from a childhood incident but rather recent. Like 3 years of so ago. Why so suddenly? Hell if I know. It just is. Although I’ve gotten a lot better with driving over tall bridges & tall bridges above water, it’s still something that I have to deal with.

So onto my story of our Gatlinburg, TN trip. As I may have mentioned earlier this week, my daughter had a cheer competition there. I had known about this since the gym issued the competition schedule back in the summer. After spotting the location on the schedule, I immediately pondered the drive. Whether or not it included tall bridges or not. I even asked a few parents about it. Yes I did. They laughed and never gave me a concrete answer. Whatev’s.

Fast forward to about 2 months ago, my brother decided to roll with us. Thank God! And again, I considered the drive cause I needed to know what I was up against. I wondered should I drive half way there and have my brother drive the rest or vice versa. Yes, all of these things would be considered. But I needed more info. I tried googling the drive for bridges but couldn’t find anything. But I just knew….



Bridge at Vicksburg, MS by Michael Gilliam

 So now, it’s a week before the event. Another cheer mom (we’ll call her Cheer Mom 1) has gotten a sweet deal on a cabin & wants to room. Cool. I love great deals! Also, another cheer mom needs her child to hitch a ride to and from the competition. I volunteer and tis all good. So check this, the parent whose kid is riding with us has family near Gatlinburg. So I ask her about the drive. If there are any bridges or things of that nature & such, that I should be aware of. She tells me that there’s a route thru the mountains. *Uh, hell no.* With a narrow lane highway with drop-offs on either side. *Uh, double hell no.* And deer and coyote and shit like that. *Ah, hell nawl!!* As she could sense the tension in my voice, she did tell me that there’s a route to Gatlinburg that goes around the mountain. And then she lets us use her GPS system for the trip. *And the tension fades away.*

Okay. So of course we take that route. I start the drive, cause frankly (And I love my brother dearly.) my brother drives at a snails pace. Love you, Bro! Just my perspective. Okay, maybe not that slow but he’s definitely one of those extra, extra cautious drivers who waits for the oncoming driver who’s two blocks away to pass before turning onto the street. Seriously. So back to me driving because I just wanna get to get there.

The four or so hour drive was easy-breezy. Really simple. There were a few long bridges over water but it was no biggie for me. No major inclines occurred… That is until we go thru Pigeon Forge headed into Gatlinburg. It was quite obvious that we were in mountain country seeing as we were going up a steep (at times), windy highway. I felt a little tense but was more of less fine since there were a lot of other cars on the road along with us. On top of which, it was dark so I couldn’t really see any big drops and I stayed in the opposite lane from any ledges. *Yes, it’s like that.*


So we finally enter Gatlinburg and got final directions to the cabin from Cheer Mom 1. So I’m driving thru the town traffic looking for a short side street that would lead to them. And of course, my assumption is wrong. So I finally get to make the turn that I was told to make. And before I go any further, please note that just about every DAMN STREET had either a serious incline or descent. MOUNTAINS!!

Anyhoo, this road is a lot less populated because it’s going away from downtown GAT. And as we continue driving … I say we but it’s me while my brother is remarking about knowing we’re in a mountainous area because of the terrain. Anyhoo, we go down some long, and at times, windy dark street. *Faint heart palpitations begin.* Finally, making a turn onto a beast of a dark and sharply inclined street. *Oh damn. Please God, let our cabin be down a hill after this one.* Unfortunately, we continue going up (and sometimes down) this narrow –ass, windy, “darker than dark” road. *Heart rate slightly elevated. Breathe in. Breathe out.* I finally see some light. Its a few cabins—hanging on the sides of the mountains. * I swear that’s what it looked like to me.* And unfortunately, these cabin no’s were in the 300’s. Our cabin no. was in the 600’s. DAMMIT!!

So I continue driving on this tight-ass, windy road. By this time, I can see that there is a drop-off beyond the trees. The trees that are right next to this tight, windy road that I’m driving super slowly on to ensure that we do actually stay on it. *I slowly begin to cry on the inside.* My slightly elevated heart is guessing this drop-off is pretty high because my daughter just tells me that her ears have popped. In the meantime, my mind is telling me that gravity still works and will keep the car on the road. *It’s okay. Its gonna be fine.* However, the juice crew (my brother & daughter) have their own take on it.


Bro – “Oh, yeah. That’s a drop-off alright. I think we’re pretty high alright.”

Daughter – “I’m scared. I think I’m gonna cry.”

My thoughts – “DAMMIT, if y’all don’t pull it together & shut up! I’m this close to losin’ it!!”

My response – As calmly as I could I said, “Listen, I need you all to chill & keep me focused. Positive thought please. Positive thoughts."

*Breathe in. Breathe out. No sweaty palms. Stay calm.* And yes, I had to repeat this statement another time. Yes.



Random pic.- I swear the only difference between this random pic and what the road actually was like was pavement and a few more trees. Just a few more.

 They just didn’t know that the only reason that I didn’t stop the car to allow my brother to drive was because I was so scared that the parking brake would fail because we were on such a steep incline & the car would end up careening over the edge of the mountain (or in its trees) with my baby and brother in it. *I know. Vivid imagination.* On top of which, I felt like my legs would fail me if I got out of the car at that point.


So we continue. My eyes glued to the snake-like road. We finally get to the cabin but it’s SO freakin’ dark that I’m not sure if it’s the right one. Should I go to the bottom right or the left? *Shit! Sick of driving this sh#t!* So I go to the bottom right down what looks like a steep descent into a bottomless night. But alas, I see a cabin. Quite a lovely one, too. Although, I can only say this now because at that moment it just looked like a savior. I parked the car, still not sure if it was the right cabin. Took my weak, shaky legs to the door and knocked, praying we’re at the right place cause there’s no possible way I can do any further driving. And fortunately, my daughter’s teammate appeared. *And the angelic chorus sang, “HAL-LE-LU-JAH”!!*

I yell to the car, “Come On! This is it!” Walked in the door and asked the mom for (a) a shot of Patron, (b) a therapist for me to lay this burden on or (c) a meditation room with aromatherapy and a masseuse. Instead, I promptly put the car key into my brother’s hand, looked him square in his eyes & told him, “From here on out, you got this.” Sat my shaken self down and thanked God my bro decided to come with us.

That is all.

Post Title → FRIDAY FREEBIES - Adventures In Gatlinburg

R.I.P. KIARA (2002 - 2010)

Kiara, the kitty

On yesterday, after a long bout with an untreatable illness, our 8 year old cat passed away. I took it a bit hard. More so than my daughter, who I expected to be torn up about it.


Let me give you some background info.

I am a bit fond of animals. Truthfully, I am fond of some animals a little more than I am of others. And before Kiara, cats were on my “not too fond of” list of animals. It’s hard to imagine now, but I always thought that cats were a little “funny acting” and took way too much pleasure in scratching you up.

I’m sure by now you may be wondering, “Well, why did you get one?”…Simple answer. My daughter (and I) wanted a pet but at that time could not devote enough time to having a dog. Which is the type of pet we really wanted? We weren’t at home in time to walk a dog or get him/her out of the house to relieve himself. Around the same time, a co-worker of mine had a cat that had given birth to a litter and was trying to find a good home for some of the kittens. I told her how my daughter wanted a pet and we began to discuss adopting one of her kittens.

I ended up getting one of the lovely babies and surprised my daughter with her for Christmas that particular year. From the day I brought her home, I fell in love with her spunk, her energy and especially her loving nature. I had never experienced a cat that loved to lie in your lap or curl up under you. Or one that would come to you for attention. Or one that would respond to you. Or if I was napping on the couch, would climb on top of my stomach, purr and go to sleep with me. And did I mention that she was a bit of a vocal kitty. I would come home, open the door and say to her, “Hey Girl!”. And after trotting to the door, upon hearing my greeting would look at me and respond, “Rowr”. Yep. She was such a sweet kitty.

Fast forward to early last spring and several trips to the vet. I was told that her liver affliction was untreatable and that she would probably not make it through the summer. Well, she made it to November and we enjoyed every moment with her.

Here’s to you kitty. The one that changed my perspective on cats. And opened and filled my heart. I am forever grateful for her presence in our lives, the joy you brought to our family and for expanding my thinking.

Rest in peace, sweet mama.

Post Title → R.I.P. KIARA (2002 - 2010)

A LITTLE BIT OF THIS. A LITTLE BIT OF THAT.

Old hair pic of puff close-up from spring '09

Hola Gorgeous Ones,


I hope that all is well with everyone. Just wanted to mention, that I’ve been featured on Indulgence Is Key blog. Click here to read it. Shout out to Dionne for the invitation & interview.

Its not much new as far as my hair is concerned. It’s almost been 2 weeks since I’ve washed my hair and I can tell. I’m starting to experience some itchies which could also be related to the slight change in weather. Idk. I’ll have time to wash it later on this week. Along with a henna treatment for a bonus .

Until then, I’m staying on top of keeping this stuff moisturized (especially the ends) and treating it with loving care. Truth be told, I've just gotten to the point where I’m not “rough-housing” my hair so much when handling it. Shhhh....  I know. I know. Three years and it’s still a learning process. =)


What's going on with your tresses?....

Post Title → A LITTLE BIT OF THIS. A LITTLE BIT OF THAT.

WHAT'S GOING ON??...

Hi Beautifuls!

Just wanted to let you know that my blogging inconsistencies will probably last another couple of weeks. There's alot going on in my world but rest assured, I'm still here and will continue to blog.

Hopefully, I'll be back to full-week blog posting sooner than later.

Peace and blessings,

Post Title → WHAT'S GOING ON??...

WHAT I'VE BEEN UP TO

Hi Everyone!

Sorry for the lapse in posts but I've got a lot going on right now. Between a move, the out-of-town graduation of my stepson, and my daughter getting back into competitive cheerleading my time and energy has been spent. I hope to be back to regular posting by next week. Hopefully by Wednesday.

I hope that you all are well. I'd love to hear what you all have been up to.

Post Title → WHAT I'VE BEEN UP TO

NAKED AND NOT ASHAMED

Hi Beautifuls!

Remember my post on the vivacious & fab Miriam who just so happened to be a practicing nudist?.
While living in New York City, she remains clothed. But, as said on the show, she does visit nudist camps and retreats.


Now seeing as I was raised in the typical Southern Bible Belt household where keeping your ass covered at all times was a requirement, I initially assumed that Miriam was going to be quite …weird. She was actually quite sweet, joyful and funny. As I watched her particular episode of “What Not to Wear”, I was intrigued by her “freeness” and even more so, by her total acceptance of her body.

Her reasons for becoming a nudist were a direct result/reaction of a 7-yr controlling relationship in which she was dictated to cover it up in a super conservative way. She was never allowed to express herself or have her own style or decision in dressing. So once the chains were broken she let it all hang out-literally.

I have to admit that I highly respect the positive body image that she has. And I must admit that I’m sort of embarrassed that I’m not quite there with my own body. (And yes, I am one who, for the most part, appreciates Eryka Badu’s “Window Seat” video). I love the thought of having total self-acceptance, the physical along with all personality quirks. I love the thought of being totally transparent. I envision these attributes to be quite freeing.

Miriam has inspired me. Uh, not saying that I’m ready to strip down to my b’day suit and head to the nearest nudist/naturalist camp. But I am moved to purposely take time, look in the mirror and accept & love every dimple, dent, scar, stretch mark, bump & ridge that is on my body as beautiful.


Can you say that you like what you see when you’re standing in front of a mirror stark naked? Or are you bound by the attributes that you think are “unpretty” based on societal constructs? Do you even bother to look?.... Or have you visited a nudist/naturalist camp, retreat or beach?

Do Share.



I can imagine the feeling of it. Not being constrained to social mores and opinions but being free to be totally open, physically, socially and spiritually.

Naked and not ashamed.

Post Title → NAKED AND NOT ASHAMED

WISHING ALL A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

HAVE A WONDERFUL & HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

{{Hugs}},

Post Title → WISHING ALL A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY