Whimsical

I was going to postpone my blogging duties until I purchased my new camera, which will be within the next two weeks, but I saw this on Etsy this morning and had to share.

Click here to see more

Just a reminder

Happiness is best served with an evolving truth, full lip kisses and a naked heart, conversations that lead to personal growth, spring mornings and birds chirp chirpin', good lovin' in the evening and late night strolls in the park, representing each other wherever we may be...its sippin rose tea at brunch, exchanging smiles & props, thrift store shopping, pickin up what you like because I dig you "just that much." Its you believing in my personal convictions and understanding my understanding (yes, I meant that), and staring and examining old buildings and European architecture because that's my thing, and its me diggin whatever your thing is too. Its laying out my emotions on colorful china, and sewing a few buttons on your vintage jacket. Its peach cobbler in nana's old dish with ice cream or a glass of milk, anything with caramel sauce drizzled over it. I wanna see giraffes and elephants in the zoo too and just like in my dreams...I'll think of happiness as doing all of this with you.

A little bit of this, a little bit of that.

In writing this post, I was reminded of a conversation I had with someone about paying for quality work. The person opposite of me argued that certain items on Etsy were too "pricey." I love my friend dearly, but I beg to differ with her opinion. I really enjoy finding handmade jewelry and the benefit in purchasing items from a designer via Etsy greatly outweighs buying the same item from the big wigs (big name brands). You have the ability to forge a relationship with that person and if you're lucky (like me), you can have them customize something for you. 

I've been slack in posting lately because of school, but I've arranged time within the next few weeks to update more. I've wanted to feature Lilaya for quite a while, especially with the fall approaching.

"Lilaya is an ethnic inspired line created by two former designers, Josephine Vittoria, a jewelry maker, and Shani Kali a former clothing designer. Vittoria, originally from Montreal, is an experienced Etsy shop owner and has been working and selling to people worldwide over Etsy for almost 2 years now. Her pleasant encounter with Kali has brought them to discover a new passion for ideas and together through their travels and experiences, they have been inspired to design Lilaya. Kali, originally from France, has also previously owned an Etsy shop in the last years and was pleasantly surprised to have met Vittoria, with whom she shares mutual tastes and interests. The two friends now work together in designing Lilaya using brass beads and pendants of ethnic and african inspirations."

You can check out more of their jewelry at Lilaya.

Lately...

This semester of school, my first after 5 years out, is everything I hoped for. Really. I'm enjoying the challenges that come with managing my studies & working on the planning phase for future business ventures. Last week, I saw Street Etiquette's feature in The New York Times and I finally had a chance to see their Nike commercial. I'm incredibly grateful for brothas who step outside the box and live out their destiny. Do you, always. Peace.

Tuesday's assignment

...called for me to write a poem about myself using three-word sentences. 

it was April
a wild spring
birthing fearless she
southern born gal
came saw DANCED
Michael Joseph Jackson
awakened an artist
remember to feel
passions run deep
i have to
I'VE GOT TO!
write a feast
gather love round
the hungry, suffering
let's not forget
good music and
odes to others
painfully aware hope
Walt, Giovanni, Langston
lend a pen
deep, woman, child
poet, daughter, friend
just kicking, pushing
to be enlightened.

Mind's eye

My Friday nights are often spent in solitude, even if I lend my voice to converse, intimately & boldly, with another soul. Somewhere between reading for my Creative Writing class and organizing, I was compelled to open my moleskine journal-- the one that is made for sketching and preserving fond memories in the form of words. From me to you:

Appreciation. I'm very blessed. I sometimes feel like a dreamee. Living a dream and resting in our love. Silver-lined sidewalk strolls, sugar-sweetened kisses. Heartwarming hugs and soul-searching stares. Producing love and consuming the universal truths we discover in our space. Hoping for tomorrow with out phantom nor fear. Wind in your hair, wetness in your eye, the two of us rolling whatever locomotion may be.
-Lover

Speak and be heard, illuminating the minds of those in your domain.
-Author unknown

We exist to exhibit God, to display his glory. we serve as canvases for his brush strokes, papers for his pen, soil for his seeds, and glimpses of his image. He un-commons the common by turning kitchen sinks into shrines, cafes into convents, and nine-to-five workdays into spiritual adventures. When you magnify your Maker with your strengths your days grown suddenly sweet.
-Max Lucado

Art is not for the cultivated taste. It is to cultivate taste.
-Nikki Giovanni

You're beautiful, God-gifted, angel-kissed, intelligent, slightly psych...:)
-Lover

A Tribe Called Aztec

School is in session, my mind is wrapped around W.H. Auden poems & the four fields of anthropology, so I'll keep this post short & sweet.

I saw this dress on Etsy a few weeks ago and knew I had to have it. Winter is closing in, but I think this would be the perfect outfit for an arts exhibition or art-related event (picture this: hair up in a messy bun, minimal jewelry, nude makeup, and a clutch), especially since it was designed by a graphic designer. Though I like the light blue dress, I'm really digging the cobalt blue (check out their site below). The bracelet was designed by Son Of A Sailor, based in Austin, TX. The designers, William and Jennifer, also have a vintage store on Etsy called Son of A Sailor Vintage.

Top photo: QooQoo Fashion
Bottom Photo: Son Of A Sailor

In my near future

Cat Woman/Eartha Kitt

I'se be eartha     kitt-en

purr'n around the alleyway

underneath the drunken sounds of

the streets

walk quick

tabby (this) cat.

The End.

It is now my favorite time of day: night. I'm in between life stages and finding reasons to write out of thin air. "Must be nice" is what I used to say to others and now I speak the same sentiments to myself. Must be nice Candace...to feel safe in your skin. Must be nice to look forward to those down's that bring better up's. Must be nice to be a lady and a ____ indoors. Must be nice...

Autumn | Pt. 1

Let's see...what have I done so far on this lazy Sunday? I woke up, of course (thankfully), had a quick bite, scrambled through Etsy stores, spilled my green & jasmine tea on the floor (yikes!), and now, I am contemplating on whether I should a) take a nap or b) read Eat, Pray, Love again. I am bored. Book suggestions, anyone?

Gray Works | Sunday Brunch Footed Platte $85.00
Boukoo At Home | Linen Oblong Pouches $18.36
Little Batch Botanical | Cupcake Lip Balm $3.50
TinaDee | Unique Bird Band Ring $110.00
L'Accent Nou | Ethnic Porcelain Blue & White Earrings $45.00

Detox Stew

For those who are unfamiliar with my fascination (viewed as a quirky obsession to others) with skin care, let me introduce to you one of my weekly routines: detox bathing. I've always been fond of bubble baths, which are most notable for birthing creativity at a whim, and ultimately, relaxation. Nowadays, it has become a constituent for my overall well-being, especially when my face is under attack by acne or my entire body is in need of rejuvenation. Today, as I was tweeting and texting from the confines of the bathtub, I came up with the term "detox stew," and even though a friend of mine sort of inspired this "stew" part, I'd rather not give him credit because he was initially being sarcastic.

Here is what you will need for the detox stew:

1 live being (preferably yourself)
Bentonite clay
Lavender oil (or try
Bath pillow (optional)
Kaolin clay
Baking soda

It is important to drink at least 8 cups of water prior to detoxing, as this process will eliminate toxins from your body and some essentials will need to be replaced. Although I give myself a facial every Sunday, I apply similar techniques for my detox bath. After filling your bathtub, put 5 drops of lavender oil and 4 tablespoons of bentonite clay into the water. I usually soak for 20 minutes and then gently exfoliate my face with baking soda. Wash as usual and once dry, wet a washcloth is steaming hot water. Apply the cloth to your face, remove, and then apply the kaolin clay. Let it sit until dry and rinse. My face is oily, so I tend to not put anything on it after the mask.

As stated before, the detox/bubble baths usually produce a state of peace that allows me to write or furnish ideas for current/future projects. Tonight's thought has been on my mind for awhile:

"Life is full of hang up's," an unidentified person once said. I picture this particular hang-up as a perfectly tailored garment, perhaps it has been handed down to you or maybe it is just your favorite piece of clothing. Over time, it is sure to weather-- missing a button or two or fraying along the seams. Yet, you still keep it. After a gentle wash (being delicate is no question in this case), you hang it outside to dry underneath the sun and a host of other entities. It may even see the moon. Freshly washed and fragrant, those signs of weather no longer matter. Hang up's are beautiful.

 On that note, I hope that you have a lovely weekend & stay positive.

Vintage Jewellery | Allison Cecil

Being the jewelry fanatic that I am, I immediately gasped when I first laid eyes on these. I.want.them.now. Cecil describes her jewelry as "organic nature inspired sterling silver, copper and brass jewelry, the original vintage silverware garden makers and everything else you never knew you needed but can't live without." I have to agree.
Click here to visit her store

Good Hygiene: Sanitize & Fresh (Herbal Mouthwash)

I enjoy a great kiss. In fact, I've been told that I am a "supa" kisser, an achievement that could only be accomplished by one accessory: fresh breath. Let's be honest, most of us have encountered or regrettably dated someone whose insides (as in organs & bodily fluids) seemed to by deteriorating,judging by the distinct smell of his or her breath. You'll never forget that moment, as it will be added to your growing list of mistakes & "wtf's." But alas, there is a cure to this problem.

Introducing, The Toothbrush and Homemade Herbal Mouthwash. Yes, I am being sarcastic. If you've been raised right, you should know what a toothbrush is, but sadly, not many people are aware of how often it should be replaced or how to sterilize it. Picture this: you've just finished eating a steak, garlic mashed potatoes, and a side of sauteed veggies, then after relaxing with your honey (he or she), you brush your teeth before a late night sex or make out session. Please do not act like you don't make out. Anyway, imagine an animal's blood and bodily fluids permeating on your cheap CVS toothbrush. Gross right? Well, that is exactly what is left on your toothbrush AFTER you finish brushing. If this isn't enough, remember that your toothbrush has been lounging in your bathroom along with other germs. Yum.


The hippie in me could not go another day without finding a solution or two, which is what I did after a few days of research. Keep in mind that I am not a doctor, so please check with your physician if you experience any discomfort from using the following tips.


1. Submerge it into a bowl of alcohol/or hydrogen peroxide and antiseptic mouthwash for 30 minutes.
2. Place it upright into open container. Never cover or place it into a closed container, as this is cause bacterial growth.
3. Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, and throw away after illnesses.
4. Scrape your tongue prior to brushing to reduce the amount of germs.

See, that was fairly easy, but that alone will not prevent bad breath. Here is a recipe for herbal mouthwash, along with a few visuals.

You need:


Fresh mint leaves
Sage (preferably fresh)
Cinnamon stick
Glycerin


I made a small batch of this, so I boiled 2 cups of water. Place 7 mint leaves (or to your liking), 1/4 teaspoon of sage, and a cinnamon stick in a glass jar. Pour water over and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, drain mixture and pour /4 teaspoon of glycerin.


If you have any questions, shoot me an email or comment.

Emily King: The Seven EP

She is Grammy-nominated, mingled alongside John Legend and Floetry while having the honor of opening for the beautiful Badu and Illmatic Nas. Born in NY circa 1985, Emily King was given the songbird gene from her parents, who performed in the same venues that King would later leave her mark. In 2007, King earned a Grammy nomination for her debut album "East Side Story," and now at the age of 25, she have released her second album, titled "The Seven EP."


This EP has everything I want: a unique blend of soul & funk, trailing close to strong vocals. King's voice reminds me for Corinne Bailey Rae, with a bit of an edge. One thing is certain, she will not get much radio play, but hey...that is becoming the trait of many talented artists and musicians. Do yourself a large, lifetime of a favor: Download this now.

Rant #3,1900,00

Before I get into my rant, let me just point out a few things:
#1: I have absolutely zero tolerance these days. Blame it on my last relationship.
#2: I am practicing patience and so far, I've been doing a very good job-- until today.
#3: I try not to curse, but I think certain moments are much better expressed with a few "shits," and "damn's."


I wanted to use the word "hate," but that connotes more negativity than necessary. So, I'll use the word "dislike." After weeks of calling the Financial Aid office and the Records office in order to verify that I have sent the required documentation for my grant to be processed, and that my transcripts were received, I found out that my schedule was dropped. Yes, dropped. Instant panic attack. I immediately started to shake and spew out multiple curse words and pursued called every phone number listed on the school's website. For the next hour, I went through the following: Called. Transferred. Called. Transferred. Called. Voicemail. Called. Voicemail. Called. Called. Transferred.

Then, a breakthrough of more shit: Well I see that we received it on the 19th, and our deadline was on the 15th, so we can't guarantee that it will be processed this week. We are very busy and are trying to get the awards done as quickly as possible. My reply: I WAS TOLD THAT MY SCHEDULE WOULD NOT BE DROPPED BECAUSE I HAD ALREADY COMPLETED MY FILE AND SENT MY TRANSCRIPTS. NO ONE TOLD ME ABOUT A DEADLINE! Him: Yes, unfortunately, I can not give you an exact date as to when you will receive that award letter, so if you register for classes again, your schedule will probably be dropped.

Based on the information above, you can probably understand my frustration. After emailing a friend and writing a tweet about this debacle, I've calmed down a considerable amount, which is an accomplishment in itself. There is nothing more that I can do, except for pray. Negativity doesn't award anything, but positivity's rewards are limitless.

Craftmanship, Personified.

>>Oliver Peoples<<

Pain Grillé: French Toast

What do you get with 3 eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, half & half, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar? A celebration. A french toast celebration, that is. Mix everything (minus the powdered sugar), dip 5 slices of bread into the mixture, brown on top of the stove for 30 seconds, and pop it in the oven at 375 degrees, for 5 to 10 minutes. Top with powdered sugar, strawberries, or mix Ntuella & butter together.

Strange Life. Strange Food.

Crawfish boil. One of many summer gatherings in the South. Why the face? It was my first crawfish- EVER.

I've been gone so long that I missed myself. What have I done since my last post? Lived life: tumultuous, lovely, enlightening, and incredibly grateful. I broke up with facebook to be with Twitter, and so far, so good. I also decided to continue my studies as a BFA major. Art, it has a hold on my spirit and I can't live without exercising my right to create & free myself. Soon, I'll rekindle the love I have for poetry, but until then...I'll write, paint, create...without fear or self-criticism (unless it is productive).

My quote for the months ahead: Visual positivity, exude beautiful energy. It's easy, just try.

Song of present: Jesse Boykin III- Zoner

SCARY, YES?

This is an all-in-one for me: dope and scary as hell. I first saw this Christopher Ross belt on Sex in the City, which of course, prompted many to rediscover Ross, who was already a well-established and respected 'art' jewelry designer. If I had a choice, along with an extra thousand dollars, I would purchase the lion and ram belt. Until then, I guess I'll just dream of scary rabbits.

Link: Christopher Ross

Or ah ha!

I am, as I heard someone once say 'burning the midnight oil." Its a little past 1:30 and while most are sleep or up and mentally exhausted from the thought of what this upcoming week will bring, I am blissfully (coffee is partially to blame) awake. But not just 'awake' because my eyes are open. I, as in 'my soul,' am awake. Times like this are hard to come by, or at least for me-- burning the midnight oil AND being creatively productive-- they've been existing separately, like distant cousins that you only see at family reunions. I come from a small family, so I've only attended two reunions and those were, how shall I say this? A bore.

So, let's take advantage of this hour. Yes, this blog has been lacking just about everything I meant for it to be, but most notably: consistency. The achiever in me (and the Aries) really wants to believe that I will write the most humorous, inspirational prose on a daily basis, while still managing a hectic, creative life. Surely, I have proven that I should let that little dream fall by the waist side-- its just not going to happen. And at this point, I know it should never happen. Blogging is not my career-- its an accessory, an outlet. My moleskine journals usually catch my most random or organized thoughts, ideas, and quotes; by the way, Moleskine journals are absolutely perfect for writing. So as I pose this question to myself and you (what the h-e-double-hockey sticks is this blog about?), I'll answer it in an informal fashion.

I am a passionate, yet frustrated artist. I am a poet, who has been actively trying to write a book for the past 2 years, with 8 of those months being full of inactivity, a former model (I hate telling people that, and I'll explain later), writer--duh, comedian (in my own mind), lover (always), music fanatic, wannabe designer (oh--the ideas I have--sickening), soon-to-be massage therapist, a transplant of South Carolina (funny, because I still live there, but I say transplant because my heart & mind is elsewhere), and a beautiful soul. I could add more, but I'm letting my heart take control of this train.

Love and hurt are deeply parallel in my world, which can be equally fulfilling or detrimental to my creative flow. If I am in love and recognize that I have love-- poetry comes to me in bulk, with fancy packaging & pastel colors. Even when I am deeply hurt, the pain moves me to write deliriously, as if each word was being sent to the heavens-- a petition to be heard & freed from that which has betrayed me. In those states, my artistry is at its very best. I cherish those moments, often gripping to co-existing memories with such a strong hold that I am unaware of how it affecting my spirit-- unattended to and the sore loser who will always be compared to 'what was.'

But recently, I had an 'ah ha.' For the last 2 years, I thought my past body of work was the cause of the highest pinnacle of emotions, whether joyful or full of pain. In my mind, it was either: I need to be in love or out of love, in order to be a gifted artist. I hit a roadblock in rationalizing this in 2008 and earlier this year-- signaling the end of one intense love affair, and the beginning of 'something' that eventually turned into the worse relationship in the history of relationships-- yours included. Needless to say, I was prepared for a surge of inspiration, but low and behold, it (or they) never arrived. Why, you say?

I lost hope. And a person without hope is hopeless, so I became a hopeless soul. I found myself wandering around in bookstores, searching for 'inspirational' (and inspiration) books, stalking those who seemed to find instant gratification from rummaging through the "last FINAL sale" of $2 to $5 books that no one --or maybe just me, wanted. OR if it wasn't that, then it could have been the Godiva cheesecake--never the sandwich (who finds inspiration in a sandwich?), the caramel latte (a staple drink for writers), or coffee dates (made before the bookstore or at the bookstore). It didn't matter, I was seriously envious of anyone who seemed to be artistically-free and happy. Did I mention that I was not happy? Oh, I was one unhappy camper, wailing in my own year-round camp of misery. The activities included: writing crap poetry or not writing at all, browsing through blogs & being overloaded with images, which still produced nothing substantial when combined with my own efforts. Even if I did happen to create 'something,' my mind was quick to point out that the idea wasn't really mine, it was just a regurgitation of what my senses-- sensed.

Ah. ha.

Let's piece this confusing puzzle together, shall we (posed as a question, but really doesn't need an answer). Emotional rise + me= creative high - hope= a notebook full of nothing. Hope is a necessary ingredient to living a fulfilled life. Hope is the vehicle of choice when navigating through this journey. Note: I enjoy riding in a car that has the loudest speakers, painted black, and windows down (so the wind can blow through my hair). Hope isn't just about being strong, it is also about believing in your own convictions. I had to tell myself that it was truly acceptable to NOT want to write on this blog daily, or that it was ok to need incense or some sort of thing" I needed a lighter to match-- in order to quiet my mind. Little by little, I am accepting that I need to have certain things in place-- before I write, or paint, or photograph. If I absolutely must have music, then I must have music. If I absolutely must have my tea & food separately (weird, I know), then so be it. The point is, I have faith in who I am, what I would like to achieve, what I can achieve, and what I need to have in order to achieve.

Tomorrow or at some point during this week, I will post a list of elements or items that I find necessary for opening & satisfying my artistic voice. Till then, I'll bask in the fact that I wrote this long blog entry and count it as a "come back."

Rat race

2.5 months till I relocate and transition into being a student again. 11.5 months till I relocate to the Big Apple. 1 day, 1 step closer to living my dreams. Till then, I smile...I hustle...hustle hard.

Thrift.

Just 2 of many thrift finds...didn't have the best luck, but then again-- I was not in the mood to dig through racks and carts of dust-ridden clothes. I am either going to find or sew a tan/peach dress slip to put underneath the lace dress above. I'm not too sure about the blue sweater...maybe cut it into a crop sweater? Ideas please.

12:41 AM

A few days ago, I tweeted: Time is a great healer; shortly thereafter, I meditated on what that truly meant. I am 3 months away from relocating & beginning a program that is tailored for my interest in the healing arts. There is no greater joy than the divine and knowing the divine is knowing yourself. We all have a role, but many of us ACT in different parts, versus exposing our true layers. I am not just a poet, or a painter, or a collector, or music lover, or a pet lover-- I am...a poet, paint, collector, music lover, pet lover, lover for vintage, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a fighter...but above all, I am love because I was created from love.

I forgot that I (little ole me) was love.

Quite a few times, I attempted to be Ms. Goody Two Shoes, Ms. Perfect (who does not curse), Ms. I Don't Care (with twins Ms. Bitch and Ms. Numb), Ms. Deeper, and Ms. Happy All The Time, but in reality, I was playing these roles as a result of bad relationships and an attempt to please others. Nothing positive can be fulfilled in that. Nothing. Oh, but there is a grandness in having a past-- it gives life to the future. While I may still be overly critical of myself at times, I have also grown to be patient. The same can be said of my temperament towards those who disappoint me. Having standards does not qualify me as a bitch, it simply means that I have standards. I appreciate my heart more, knowing that I will always want to see the best in people, but not everyone sees the same within themselves; in the case of becoming a detriment to me, it is perfectly fine to cease communication or to leave.

A new standard for 2011? Fully represent what I stand for. It's not enough to say you will do something, you have to act on it when things do not go as planned. Within the next few days, I have to cut a few strings loose to put more pressure on what really matters.

Poetry has been waiting...so has cheerfulness, hope, wide smiles, sass...and love.

When did my life become so boring? I mean...I am ridiculously bored. Tumblr is not doing it for me, in fact, I think I'm overloaded with ideas, images, and whatnots. The new summer gig does not start until next week...that's too much time for me. I'm already throwing myself-- head first, into this Eat, Pray, Love book...with a side of rainbow sherbert...

Never thought I'd trade these days for a 9 to 5, but I'd rather be deep into a pile of papers & suffering from finger abuse (switchboard) than to be sitting here...like this. I'm also a distant lover to this blog--maybe new ventures will provide some new material and inspiration. We'll see.

Individual > Crowd

Criticism is a healthy supplement to success. It will either break you or push you to new heights. I'm a fan of concern (out of love), healthy debates...heated or cold, but if you catch yourself being overly critical-- to the point of placing judgement on someone, check your reflection kid. I'm cool, but I will not be sacrificed as a tool for elevating your confidence. Misery loves company, I dig that, but be miserable on your own turf. 

He gives me FEVER.

This brotha never disappoints...elated to see him grace tumblr.

Laptop-FAIL

I love my dog, really...I do. Last year, he decided to chew on the power cord for my laptop charger and nearly killed it-- luckily, I was able to salvage a few wires that could hold a charge. Fast forward to two weeks ago-- I tripped over the cord while trying to catch the phone and WALA...I, not my dog, sent the cord to its grave and thus, I have been without a charger for weeks. Tsk.

In a few days, I should be receiving a new one in the mail and will resume posting. Osama is apparently dead now and a celebration is ensuing all over the world. The so-called "news" is a reality show and I can no longer stomach it. Peace.

Breaking Away.

Most people are unaware of the habits they acquire through life and how stress is attributed to not breaking away from the mundane, and more often, unnecessary acts & situations that we've grown accustomed to. While sitting in the bookstore, I read an article in Real Simple magazine, which discussed tips for making your daily life more fulfilling, rather than just productive. There is a difference. Being a naturally intense, active individual, I am always looking for ways to add more spice to my work/play routine.

In an attempt to reduce the time I spend on the internet & in the spirit of being random, I've mixed the formerly categorized tips below:

Treat yourself to movie after work, by yourself (stuff candy & drinks in your purse).
Buy an aromatherapy fan for your office and fill it with calming/invigorating oils.
Paint your nails with a pastel or bright colour.
Wake up to lively/positive music in the morning.
Treat someone to lunch or buy a gift for a friend/family. just because.
Wear a new lotion & perfume.
Go see a live band, play, or musical.
Greet as many strangers as you can.
Wear a pretty silk or satin blouse.
Get a mani or pedi during your lunch break (bring a salad with you).
Learn a new foreign language or if you don't have time, just learn a new phrase.
Try a new tea (Suggestion: Yogi Skin Detox tea or Rose tea).
Buy fresh flowers for yourself (place them at your desk or next to your bed).

Grace & Peace.

Be still.

Je ne suis plus malade, which means "I am no longer sick," or at least I hope I translated it correctly. Even with all of the vitamins that I take on a daily basis, allergies is new age beast that cannot be tamed. I am still full of sniffles & aburd coughs, but one thing is for sure: I am tired of laying in the house.

Its Aries' season and my birthday is this coming Tuesday. Boredom is an Aries' so-called "bad" trait, depending on who you ask. I am not a fan of the trait unless it equates to tranquil silence-- i.e. sleeping. Spontaneity, in the form of anything that fully engages my mind & spirit is a cup of tea that I prefer to sip on the daily, and so, I spent the latter part of today reading (or skimming), organizing, and of course, writing this blog post.

Motivated to "stay woke," I took a gander at one of my moleskine journals. In it, I read the following quotes:

"Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds! Shine, meditate, live purely. Be quiet. Do your work with mastery."
-Buddha

"It is healthy to examine anything we decide to need or love or fear."
-Zoetica Ebb

By the way, if you haven't noticed already, I collect quotes as if they were pairs of shoes. I'm quite fond of learning from others, as it aides in my own growth & what I share. This year has been very good to me, its as if the universe aligned itself with my eyes or maybe, I finally took notice of everything. Habits can be difficult to break and if you spend your days following a mundane routine, you will not hear the birds of spring or notice how rich the soil is from underneath the flowers. Everyday, do something different-- challenge yourself. Inhale and exhale, instead of breathing oxygen. It's quite simple.

May peace & joy be with you...I'm giving thanks for the love shown on this blog, gigs that have been lucrative--monetarily and career-wise, His grace & understanding, budding friendships, new SOULful music, and the kind of weather that makes "everythang" alright.

Spring brings hummingbirds & pretty flowers, as well as allergies. I am officially sick and as if that isn't bad enough, the charger to my laptop is toast. Great, right? Luckily for me, I'm married to OPTIMISM and it runs the show...so I'm never down for too long.

Sundays...

are for giving thanks...relaxing your soul. Lupe is on repeat in my space...been loving him since mixtapes. Food & Liquor holds a special place in my heart...first time I felt real love with another...and the first time I obsessed over a cd...literally. Happy Sunday to all of you...

P.S. Working on a DIY for that fly clutch below...

NEON

I have a "thing" for clutches...dig the color contrast. If I find the right leopard-print fabric...I'm making this...immediately. I'm also quite boring these days when it comes to posting. Trust me, there is a plethora of ideas roaming in my mind, but higher duties are calling my name.

Today marks the beginning, a new sunrise...show love.

Currently listening to...

Spring brings blooms much flowers...a rose this is.

Speak Truth

Take time each day to quiet your mind.
Eat a colorful, flavorful diet.
Engage in daily exercise that enhances flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
Sleep soundly at night.
Eliminate what is not serving you.
Cultivate loving, nurturing relationships.
Perform work that awakens your passion.
Your body needs you to make life-supporting choices. Please don't wait until it is throwing a tantrum before you pay attention.

Courtesy of David Simon

Hello Saturday.

Thirty minutes till midnight and I'm stuck with a raging migraine that does not want to go away. I would have more to say...but the pain is too much for me. I'm sending warm, positive vibes to all of you....and if anything, KNOW that each day brings opportunities and CHOICES. You may not have control over everything, but you can control how to react to circumstances & people, AND how to feel.

Smile. Be grateful & give thanks in everything you do. Stick close to those who bring out the best in you and politely decline the opinions & ENERGY of others who do not (pray for them). Peace & Love.

Oh, Jesse...

Left or Right?

Left brain: I am the left brain. I am a scientist. A mathematician. I love the familiar. I categorize. I am accurate. Linear. Analytical. Strategic. I am practical. Always in control. A master of words and language. Realistic. I calculate equations and play with numbers. I am order. I am logic. I know exactly who I am.

Right brain: I am the right brain. I am creativity. A free spirit. I am passion. Yearning. Sensuality. I am the sound of roaring laughter. I am taste. The feeling of sand beneath bare feat. I am movement. Vivid colors. I am the urge to paint on an empty canvas. I am boundless imagination. Art. Poetry. I sense. I feel. I am everything I wanted to be.

//I'm GOOD.

And I'm back on my grind/ A psychic read my lifeline/ Told me in my lifetime/ My name would help light up the Chicago skyline/ And that's what I'm/ Seven o'clock, that's primetime/ Heaven'll watch, God calling from the hot lines/ Why he keep giving me hot lines/ I'm a star, how could I/ not shine/ How many ladies in the house/ How many ladies in the house without a spouse/ Something in your blouse got me feeling so aroused/ What you about/ On that independent shit/ Trade it all// for a husband and some kids/ You ever wonder what it all really mean/ You ever wonder if you'll find your dreams?

//Kiss.

One of my favorite songs, "Kiss yourself for me," by Darnell Levine, came to mind tonight. After spending the last few nights in solitude-- studying my own heart & what my Creator has planted in me, I am delighted in the effort I've made so far to LIVE, not just exist. This love-work is more of a spiritual practice, a lifestyle...essentially, a beautiful thing...

Tonight, I heard a faint whisper...telling me to "put your lips out like this, put your hand up to those lips, kiss yourself for me..." Smiles in reverence, is what he once said of me. I understood it today and in spirit, gave thanks for the manifestation of light-- perfect & pure.

//Update

//On REPEAT: Joya Mooi

Joya Mooi's Hard Melk is a breath of fresh air on a Spring morning and a rainy evening  (try it).

Mornin, my love/ let's repeat what we did before/ what was so good to me/ and good to you/ let's   just   play/ all day.

10 Things

A LIST:10 THINGS

1/ I am reading "The Way of the Lover- Rumi & the Spiritual Art of Love," by Ross Heaven and it is heaven.
2/ I registered to attend an open house and workshop for massage therapy school in Asheville, NC!
3/I really want to try Tisano Cacao tea-- chocolate tea. Who doesn't love chocolate?
4/ Jesse Boykins III is a gem-- no, he really is. His voice is like....velvet.
5/ I want to try neem oil (for hair & nails) and peppermint oil (for hair wash)
6/ I'm working on changing my prayers...how I say them is just as important as what I say.
7/ Avoidance is intolerable. Speaking my mind might bruise a few egos, but the truth is better than a lie.
8/ I am drinking almond (soy) milk instead of cow milk.  The natural hormones in cow milk boosts
sebum production and as a result, causes acne.
9/ I'm itching to paint again...but I need paint $$$ so until then, sketching in my pad will have to do.
10/ I can't keep my fingers out of my hair!!!! Could this be love? I think so.