Blogging with Regina

a day late and a dollar (plus a coupla posts) short.

2011-12-09T17:30:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it's been more than a day since my last post. OK, OK, it's been over a month.

If I had to really admit to myself why I can't seem to stick to a reasonable blogging schedule, the following words would be rather fitting:

tired.
lazy.
frazzled.
distracted, unfocused...

I'm sure there are a few more adjectives I could use to describe my guilty-about-not-blogging-more self, but I can't think of them right now. (sigh)

All that said, I was just stopping in to sorta 'check in.' I don't have too much to say today, but I wanted to prove to myself that I still remember my Blogger password.

Shall be back soon. I promise!

one word.

2011-10-06T18:37:00.001-07:00

Legacy.

September randomness.

2011-09-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

It's September.

Actually, it's almost the end of September. Where is the time going? And why are the arms on the clock and the pages in the calendar moving so damn fast?

(Deep breaths, calm thoughts)

Well, since autumn is upon us, I thought I'd just rattle off a few things that have been driving me crazy, making me think and piquing my interest. As always, this illustrious list was written in no particular order.

Penny For Your Dreams
Is it just me or is the whole "talent competition" show format wearing a bit thin? I mean, American Idol, America's Got Talent, The Voice, The Sing-Off...it's all giving me a headache. And while I certainly applaud the contestants for getting out there to make their dreams a reality, I feel like, in the end, they're just getting pimped by Hollywood (like the rest of us!).

The Basketball Wives Franchise
Seriously? I truly can't believe that grown women would stoop so low for a paycheck. I am embarrassed to admit that I've been watching the LA chicks (or more specifically, fast-forwarding through via DVR) and I think I'm just in shock. Talk about taking us back a coupla decades...eesh!

The Miseducation of 9/11
This year marked the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks and I've noticed that each year, the images of those affected seem to get paler and paler. I remember exactly where I was when the planes hit and the towers fell. It was a devastating experience for everybody, from all walks of life, not just a select few. It's so interesting how the media seems to pour white paint over any story that includes people of different backgrounds. It's so, so tired.

An Eye for An Eye?
I'm all for sending folks away to rot in their own misery for eternity, but who really wins after a death row inmate is administered a lethal injection? Add to that the fact that the wrong person might have been arrested and convicted of a crime, and the whole thing is just a hot, wrong mess. Again, does anybody really win or feel that justice is being served? I don't know...

What To Read Next
As per my usual, I'm torn between about three books and don't know which one to pick up next. Oddly enough, I have such self-inflicted "literary guilt" that I can't start the next book until I'm done with the current book. Right now, I'm halfway through Belong to Me, which I bought during my local Borders' close-out sale, and then there's Martha Southgate's The Taste of Salt and Scott Poulson-Bryant's VIPs and then, there's a bunch of other titles I've read about over the last few weeks. Oh, and not to mention, I've got sparkling, new October mags strewn all over the crib.

Where, oh where, do I begin? On the page that I last bookmarked, I suppose.

Fall TV
I've still not watched The Playboy Club (it's DVR'd), but I did watch Up All Night and Free Agent...hmmm, so far, not so good. Not really sure I care about Maria Bello's new show. It could be good, but I can't stomach any more crime dramas at the moment.

Of course, I can't wait for Maher's return on...wait, when does he return? Yikes. Although it's now been shelved into DVD history, I was actually quite pleased with the Entourage finale. It all seemed very possible in this land called Hollywood and at the end of the day, Ari shall always be Ari, which I love. As a sidebar, I saw Adrian G. at a party last weekend...Q-T!

OK, I'm supposed to be talking about fall TV. Sadly, I can't think of anything that I'm really all that excited about.

Thanks, but "No Thanks"
I've had many folks open doors for me (literally and professionally), speak kind words on my behalf and a select few have even paid my invoices in a uber-timely fashion. That said, I understand the power of a genuine 'thank you,' whether it be in the form of a note (handwritten or even an e-mail), a dozen flowers or sometimes, a simple phone call to let someone know that you appreciate them. Truth be told, I have boxes and boxes of blank 'thank you' notes at home. It's not a game for me.

Last week, I received a beautiful bouquet of flowers from someone who was pleased with a story that I wrote about her. I thought it was a lovely gesture, so I let her know via an e-mail and told her again when I later saw her in-person. This week, I got a late-night call from someone whom I've been very helpful to over the past year or so. Long story short, a lead that I sent her way panned out and she wanted to share the news. Now, I'm not suggesting that I be honored with a parade or even a box of Godiva, but what I don't want is another coat of shellac on an old promise of a real 'thank you' that wasn't really a 'thank you' in the first place. I know that might sound shady, but again, this is coming from someone who knows what a proper 'thank you' is...and that ain't it. The next time she calls, I think I'll just say, "No thanks."

That's all I can think of at the moment. I'm sure something else will come to mind as soon as I hit "Publish Post." If so, I promise to log on, jot it down and hit "Publish Post" one more time!

ready, set...

2011-08-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

See that little frog, sitting upon the big, green leaf? Is it me or does he seems a little tentative...maybe even a bit overwhelmed? Then again, I could just be projecting my own stuff on the little guy - who knows?

OK, I'll be frank. I'm about to leap onto my next lily pad and honestly, I am as excited as I am totally-freaked-out and ready to make it happen. As I prepare to take the plunge, I vow to keep my eyes, and my heart, wide open to the possibilities.

Wish me luck!

afternoon delight.

2011-08-01T16:13:00.000-07:00

It seems like just yesterday that we met them. He was from the wrong side of the tracks, she was the apple of her overprotective daddy’s eye and they fell in love, hard. So did we.

Back in the day, Black love was rarely displayed on the small screen, but that all changed in 1982 when Jesse Hubbard and Angie Baxter came together in All My Children's fictional land of Pine Valley. At the time, neither Darnell Williams nor Debbi Morgan could’ve imagined the impact they would have on television history. Not only did they both score NAACP Image and Daytime Emmy Awards (Morgan was the first Black actress to earn the latter), they won the hearts of the nation.

Who can forget how Angie used to beam at Jesse, all dreamy-eyed (before her recent vision loss, of course), or how she’d melt whenever he called her “Ah-ngela?” Like any love story, theirs was riddled with highs and lows, but when Jesse “died” in 1988, we all felt Angie’s pain. Although her storyline played out for a while longer and he’d appear, intermittently, in spiritual-form, they’d truly reached the end of the road. Or so we thought.

In January 2008, Jesse emerged from the fog, literally, to reunite with Angie and we could barely believe our eyes. The details of his return were sketchy, yes, but we didn’t care. We were overjoyed to see them together again and looking damn-good – he, still so, so fine and she, flawless, with dimples as deep as we remembered. Our favorite daytime lovebirds had hardly aged over the years, nor had Williams and Morgan.

By now, we've all had to come to terms with the fact that All My Children will take its final curtain call on September 23rd (yeah, some folks are headed to the web or maybe even to cable), who knows? Either way, things will never be the same.

That being said, what would I wish for our most favored daytime couple, in the hereafter? Nothing but love.

reading room (a mini-briefing)

2011-07-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

At this very moment, my sole mission is to stay focused on enjoying every second, minute, hour and day of Summer 2011. With that said, I should also admit that I feel just awful about my much-to-be-desired blogging schedule, but honestly, I've been a busy - living, tanning, outdoor dining, traveling (a bit), teaching my friend's kids the fine (though, utterly ridiculous!) art of planking, connecting with folks from yesteryear while mourning the loss of a dear, family friend and as per my usual, trying to make sense of it all. Note to self: the latter is clearly going to take longer than three, summer months to figure out!

Now that I've cleared my conscience, I must make mention of my new, favorite book, of which I've just turned the last page about two hours ago. Exquisitely-written by Tayari Jones, Silver Sparrow explores the murky, mysterious world of family secrets. Bottom line, nobody ever really wins, but you've got to read it for yourself. I couldn't put the book down. Hopefully, you'll feel the same way.

Shamefully, I'll admit that I've still not caught up with all of my Maya Angelou, which was my Summer 2010 promise to myself. But it's only the first week of July, so I've still got some time to get up to speed on her collection, right? Right?

"let it get into you..."

2011-04-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my teenage years in Silver Spring, blossomed into a woman in Brooklyn and found myself as a writer in LA, but this song always reminds me of where I'm really from!

I'm still loving you, Marvin...

2011-04-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

Remember that late-night scene from Love & Basketball when Quincy finds his mother crying by the pool? If I recall correctly, his words to her were, "What's wrong, Momma? That last time I saw you drink was the day that Marvin Gaye died."

Like many of you, I remember that day well. It was April Fool's Day and I was just hoping and praying that the reports of his untimely death were some cruel, cruel joke. The more I prayed, the more I realized that it was true. I was crushed. Still am.

So, although his birthday is tomorrow, I always think of Marvin on this day. After a months-long search for my I Want You CD (yes, I said CD!), I finally broke down and replaced it a few weeks back. I will be blasting it for the rest of the day.

Here's a piece I wrote on My Dear, Mr. Gaye last year around this time. I'm still loving him, for sure, and I hope he's resting easy.

it's a-coming.

2011-03-18T19:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if I should strap on my seatbelt or throw both hands up and toss my head back with reckless abandon, roller coaster-style.

Either way, I'm ready. Ready for positive change, for the next wave of goodness. Ready for tensions to ease up, gas prices to fall. Ready for this wave to pass, ready for better times. Aren't you?

It's time. It's past time, actually.

With that said, I am looking toward the universe and making a small request - Bring It! (please).

marsha ambrosius is the truth (you'll see)

2011-01-21T14:55:00.000-08:00

It’s a cool, summer night in Los Angeles and I’m standing amongst an intimate crowd that’s gathered to hear a sampling from Marsha Ambrosius’ solo debut, Late Nights, Early Mornings. She takes a seat at the piano, determined to capture our full attention. She hits a single note, looks up and out and says, softly, “I’ve been watching you for a while, your smile, your style…” She has us, right there.

Kicking off her set with favorites from her Floetry days – including “Say Yes,” of course, and “Butterflies”– is just the beginning. Her breathy riffs and sensual wordplay are proof that the England-born, Philly-based singer/songwriter loves hard and gives of herself, completely. Isn’t that what we’re all supposed to be doing? Her lyrics and melodies illustrate the beauty of being honest about what we’re feeling, even when the feeling fades. She laughs while admitting what she really meant when bidding a fond farewell to an old flame on “I Hope She Cheats on You (with a Basketball Player),” her first single. She rattles off the details, some of which are a tad bitter. We nod in agreement because we’ve been there. You have, too.

Hers will be the album you’ll play, on repeat, while you’re curled up with your special one. Or maybe, you’ll sing along in the car, while reminiscing about someone you’re missing. Either way, you’ll remember why the journey, the experience, is worth it, especially when you hear “I Want You to Stay,” which she penned for Michael Jackson, though he didn’t get a chance to record it. Like me, you’ll want to thank her for reminding you to stay open, to love.

Regina means 'queen,' you know?

2011-01-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

I honestly don't remember the exact day that I discovered that my name meant 'queen,' but I do know that it was a huge turning point for me. I mean, really...me? Royalty? It's quite a fabulous feeling, if I do say so myself.

That brings me to Essence's latest cover girl, Regina King, who is the subject of my first, big interview of 2011. I've interviewed Regina a few times before and she's always been approachable, forthcoming and oh-so down-to-earth. And not to sound too, too corny, but I feel as though we're bonded in a special way, especially because I think I've met a total of maybe three other 'Regina's' in my entire life (Mean Girl 'Regina' and Principal Regina "Piggy" Grier don't count!). I think King appreciates our kinship as well because every time I see her - whether it be at an event or sitting for an interview - we both bow and greet each other with, "Hello, queen!" And how cosmic is it that during our interview late last year, we discovered that we not only share a first name, but also a middle name? That's very cosmic, indeed.

Just so you know, I really championed for this cover...like, really! I've followed her work since her early days on 227 and like most others, have watched her blossom on the big and small screens. I mean, I've seen Ray four times, OK?! I think she's an incredible actress who has stood the test of time and always brings her A-game. Oh, and I'm a Southland die-hard, too! Her character, Detective Lydia Adams, ain't no joke.

So, with all of that said, please stop by the newsstand to pick up the February issue of Essence. Besides the ridiculously-beautiful photography (courtesy of the uber-talented, Kwaku Alston), the story is pretty damn good, too.

yeah, I said it...

2010-11-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

OK, I really don't mean to boast, but I just couldn't allow this week to slip away without yelling to the world (or at least my fellow Los Angelenos), that I've been quoted in the LA Times.

Although I'm far too bashful to admit how many copies I bought, let's just say that the grandkids won't have to dig through some dusty, cobwebbed attic to find a well-preserved copy of yesterday's paper. My archives are fully-stocked, trust!

alfie!

2010-10-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Really, what's it all about?

We are living in some perilous times, I tell you. For starters, I should admit that the midterm elections have got me shook. Like, mad shook! The political ads that are running out here in Cali are crazy...the mudslinging and name calling all in the name of power? It's disgusting! And I pray (and have my sample voting ballot ready, too!) that the unqualified I-just-want-to-be-governor-because-I'm-done-with-my-corporate-career charlatans will not land in Sacramento making decisions for any of us. There's too much at stake for these folks to be playing around in politics while trying to take care of their fellow one-percenters.

Aside from that - and that's enough! - I've been watching far too much television lately, which is not really the best thing. I'm convinced that as a nation, we care more about who will take home the shiny, "Dancing with the Stars" trophy than we do about social issues. As usual, I think a lil' sushi for dinner might be just the thing to lighten my mood. Then, perhaps, I will try to contemplate life, yet again. I have vowed to stuff the remote under the sofa cushions until I can think clearly.

But really, I wish Alfie would just call me up and offer some answers. The first thing I might ask him is, "Is this all there is?" There's got to be more to it, with it, than this. There just has to be.

boris, blair & lance - oh my!

2010-09-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

Step off ladies, they're ALL mine...well, in print, anyway!

Though the bloggers caught wind of the artwork ahead of schedule, my (10th!) Essence cover story hits newsstands at the top pf next week. Now that the cat's out of the bag, I figured I'd post these three lovelies here, at my spot. As much as I hate to say goodbye to summer, this October cover is enough to keep me smiling and happy for the chilly months ahead.

That said, won't you please be so kind as to pick up a copy during your travels? I'd really appreciate it.

bye, Billy...

2010-08-27T16:23:00.000-07:00

Give a big hug and kiss to Aunt Lilly and Uncle Eddie, Renato and Debbie, too. You were truly one-of-a-kind. You will be missed.

random reflections, the august edition.

2010-08-19T17:39:00.000-07:00

How could the summer almost be over? Like, really?

It's only in the last week or so that the sun has been rising and shining at a reasonable hour (say 7am, instead of noon!) and although I wiggled my toes in the fabulously-blue waters of my cousin's pool last month, I've not officially swam in chlorine or salt water yet. It just doesn't seem fair. But then again, I remember my fifth grade teacher, Ms. Kramer, always reminding my class that "Life's not fair!" whenever we whined about something that she could care less about. I can still see her swinging her Dorothy Hamill-esque coif for emphasis. She was both hilarious and rather clairvoyant.

So, as I brace myself for the impending season change, I thought I'd rattle off a few random thoughts that have been running through my mind as of late. Nothing too deep, just thought I'd share...

el debarge -
Met him at a press dinner a few weeks ago. Am so excited that he's back and enjoying his "Second Chance." His first album in 16 years will be out on September 28th. What a triumph!

eat, pray, love -
I have a bit of literary guilt because the book bored me to sleep, but I really want to see the movie (yes, I kinda dig Julia Roberts). Honestly, I'm surprised that it didn't kill at the box off last weekend.

own -
I'm really excited about Oprah's burgeoning network (well, I was...), but I'm rather confused as to why there's so much trouble with staffing and programming. Did a former employoee just sue for discrimination? C-R-A-Z-I-N-E-S-S!

trey songz -
I will admit that I'm not totally sold on him being the next, big thing, but I totally love him now after watching his reality show, which oddly enough, was the lowest-rated of it's kind on BET. Sadly, it seems that he might have faired better with viewers if he'd had some drama with a baby momma (or two, or three).

undercovers -
Have seen the pilot (and interviewed Boris...check October newsstands!) and although the show's not great (yet!), I will be tuned in every week, trust. What a beautiful man.

bernadine, savannah, gloria & robin -
I'm really interested to read where life took Terry McM's four lady friends from "Waiting to Exhale." Initially, I thought about begging for an advance copy of the follow-up, "Getting to Happy," but I think I'll wait until September 7th. After all, it is rather nice to have something to look forward to, including chick lit!

unsung -
It's back, on TVOne, on September 13th. This season kicks off with a posthumous profile on Teddy Pendergrass. Then there's Miki Howard, Tammi Terrell, The Fat Boys...why can't I remember who else? Oh, and also George Clinton, who I worked with during my record company stint. He was a gang of fun. In fact, I think I might still have a contact high!

sushi, forever!
If I could, I would be at the sushi bar every, single day. I've said it before, but now I think it's about time that I finally admit that I might have a slight addiction. That being said, perhaps I'll have some spicy tuna, tonight! This week has been pure bruatlity and I think I deserve it.

summertime...and the reading is easy.

2010-07-09T15:59:00.001-07:00

I can't figure out what it is about June, July and August, but there's something about the summer months that makes reading even more delicious! Slowly, but surely, I'm making my way through my summer reading list and am beyond thrilled.

So far, I've read Anne Lamott's "Imperfect Birds," which was kind of disturbing, but very reflective of what's going on with our kids today. I'm so glad that I'd already read the prequels, "Rosie" and "Crooked Little Heart," so I was able to jump right in without missing a beat. It was rather interesting to see how each of the characters has grown (and not grown) since the last book. Anne Lamott is the truth! Still have to get into my autographed copy of "Grace (Eventually)," soon.

Am currently finishing up "Life Would Be Perfect If I Lived in That House" by Meghan Daum, which is about a single, freelance writer's quest to achieve the American dream and follows her journey from a suburban childhood, college dorm life, a charmed existence as an upper-Westside roommate, a stint in the midwest and finally, a home purchase in LaLa land. I've laughed a lot and thought, "How brave to just put all of your neuroses in book form?!" She's completely hilarious and kind of bananas, but I'm not mad because she claims it, all! Good choice.

Next, I've got to get in gear for the first meeting of a book club I've recently joined. I'm so behind that I'm a bit embarrassed to admit it, but I'm going to read the politically-charged bestseller, "Game Change," as fast and furiously as I can. American politics can just be so messy and nasty that I'm almost scared to crack this book open. Honestly, I have this strange feeling that Big Brother will be watching me as I read this one, but then again, I'm sure he's probably already watching me. He's probably reading this post, too! "Hey, Big Brother..."

From there, I'll choose between Bunny DeBarge's memoir "The Kept Ones," which I've just ordered from Amazon and sounds kind of sad, yet enlightening, and "The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake," the latter which has been on every summer reading list in damn near every July magazine I've picked up. Not sure which book I'll want to start with first, so perhaps I'll just see what my mood is when the time comes.

In the interest of full disclosure, I suppose that I should just come clean and admit that I haven't (yet!) started on my Maya Angelou collection, but I am going to get to it. Maybe I can get started on those volumes in August and be wrapped by the end of Indian summer. That counts as summer reading, too, right?

Oh, and one more thing -

During my July 4th holiday travels, I saw a few people reading from their Kindles. Actually, they kind of looked like knock-off Kindles, but that's beside the point. Although I do my best to stay abreast of the ever-changing scope of technology, there's nothing greater than holding a book (or magazine) in your hands and turning the pages. That said, I think the Kindle is a disgraceful piece of machinery! The iPad, too! There, I've said it.

Now, back to my books.

kobe is a BEAST!

2010-06-05T17:26:00.001-07:00

Let me start by saying that although I live in LA, I'm not necessarily a Laker fan. Also, I know relatively nothing about basketball, which I'm not proud of, but then again, I'm not necessarily ashamed either. It's just not my thing, which might be hard to believe considering I was a spirited cheerleader all throughout high school. Anyway...

That said, whenever I watch Kobe play, I am blown away by his focus and his determination and his skill and his absolute love for the game. As a sidebar, he's definitely getting cuter by the day (minus that horrible all-white photo shoot he did recently), but no matter, that boy is a beast on the court, every time.

I've been invited to an NBA Finals party for game 2 tomorrow and while I appreciate Ron Artest's streetball gangsta, my eyes will be on Kobe. Watching him play basketball the way he does makes me seriously ponder what I feel that passionate about.

a wise wo(man) once said...

2010-05-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

OK, I can't remember who said this or where I heard it, but it's so on-point.

Just because you're a vegetarian doesn't mean you won't get run over by a bull.

No truer words have ever been spoken. But you know what? I'm about to let the bull have it - with a sharp-edged carrot stick if I have to!

markdown?

2010-04-29T14:51:00.000-07:00

The recession is real. Really real. Like, "no joke" real. I get it. Believe me.

What I'm learning, though, is that no matter how real shit gets, you cannot allow others to completely devalue what you do, especially if they can't do what you do.

I'm just saying.

don't violate...or you get vi-o-lated

2010-04-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, someone whom I consider(ed) a friend violated my privacy in a way that is still quite unbelievable to me. Have you ever walked upon someone whom you consider(ed) a friend scrolling through your Blackberry? In my case, it wasn't just a simple "scroll-through." It was more like full-on immersion. Actually, I think engrossed might be a better word.

That said, it was not a pretty scene. That kind of personal violation makes you wonder what people's motivations really are. Are they mildy-curious about what's going on in your life? Perhaps they're just nosey as hell. Or do they simply not have anything going on in their lives? Who knows? I don't. And I don't care. I was pissed. Still am.

Regardless of the reason for the transgression, I am not too sure what the next step is. I doubt if I'll get an apology and for some reason, I'm cool with that. There's really no point in having people in your life who cannot be trusted. Wasn't it Maya Angelou who said that when people show you who they are, believe them? Yeah, those were Maya's words and I think I will take her up on her advice.

Speaking of Maya, I think I'm finally going to spend my summer reading her entire collection of autobiographies. It's a goal that I've been trying to achieve for too many summers to admit here, but I'm determined to do it this year. I read "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings" so long ago that it's all a bit fuzzy and if I recall correctly, I've only skimmed through the rest. They're all sitting here on my bookshelf, just waiting for me to get into gear. I'm ready!

Also, Anne Lamott's new book, "Imperfect Birds" is out this month.
I.
Cannot.
Wait.
To.
Get.
My.
Copy.

April 2010 Life Lesson #1:
NEVER leave your unlocked phone unattended.

April 2010 Life Lesson #2:
ALWAYS read great books!

"can I get a...

2010-03-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

window seat
don't want nobody next to me
I just want a ticket outta town
a look around
and a safe touch down

can I get a window seat
don't want nobody next to me
I just want a chance to fly
a chance to cry
and a long bye, bye..."

Word.

the randomness.

2010-03-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

There are a few things that have been racing through my mind lately.
Would you kindly indulge me for a few?

the healthcare bill -
couldn't be prouder of President O.
looking forward to the possibilities, for everyone.

erykah badu -
"window seat" is pure brilliance.
can't wait for the new album.

quantity over quality -
call me a dinosaur, but I just don't get it.
where are our standards?
no matter, I refuse to be wack just to fit in.
what would be the point of that anyway?

why did I get married, too? -
is screaming and over-the-top drama really considered acting these days?
just wondering.

celebrity breakups -
are we really supposed to care?
most (not all) of these relationships are 90% publicity, 10% "I kind of like you."
other than feeling terrible for sandra bullock, I. don't. care...like, at. all.

southland -
dope.

todd bridges -
fascinated by the story.
yes, I bought the book!

the prescription-drug-overdose crisis -
what's really going on?

dr. conrad murray -
MJ clearly had a problem, but dr. conrad, you are finished.

bitter pill.

2010-03-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

If being crafty and marginally-talented trumps being fierce, fabulous and on top of one's game, where do I fit in?

And what's the point of it all?

[inhale, ex-hale]

oscar buzzzzzzzz.

2010-02-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or are folks kind of excited about Oscar season? For the last couple of years, I've made it my mission to see as many nominated films as humanly possible and this year, I'm proud to say that I was well on my way, even before the nominations were announced on Tuesday.

I've had the fabulous, arduous task of covering the Golden Globes, the SAGs and the Grammys for the day job, but I can barely wait until the 82nd Annual Academy Awards winners are announced on March 7. Although Precious is a tough movie to watch (and an even tougher book to read), I am beyond thrilled for the cast and crew. More importantly, I'm thrilled for director Lee Daniels who is just so...well, Lee Daniels. I've had my eye on him for years and honestly, I think he deserves the kudos for getting Halle that Oscar for Monster's Ball. I get the feeling that Lee lives on the edge, but he also seems to stay true to himself, which I love. Here's a piece I wrote on him at the end of last year, just before all the accolades and nominations started rolling in. As usual, he was tres blunt and brutally honest. It's a good read, if I do say so myself.

Though I've seen a lot of this year's contenders (go see Up in the Air, like for real!), I've still got a few to catch up on like The Hurt Locker. Anthony Mackie holds a special place in my heart (he danced with my mom during an entire Frankie Beverly & Maze set at the Essence Music Festival a few years back - love him!), so I gotta go check out his film. And though Crazy Heart seems like The Wrestler with a guitar tossed in, I digs me some Jeff Bridges, so perhaps I'll head to the cinema this weekend. The rains are coming again here in LaLaLand, so a Sunday matinee might be kind of cute.

"writing well is the best revenge"

2010-01-28T01:19:00.000-08:00

I stopped in my tracks when I read that quote today. Literally.

Although I'm not necessarily a proponent of revenge (it seems like such a waste of energy), the point is well-taken. The world has been warned.

new year, bigger dreams - I keep on...

2010-01-09T20:44:00.000-08:00

some of them wanna break you down, steal your crown
use and abuse you.
some of them smile in your face, cause they heard it some place,
you got more then their used to.
some of them want to steal your love
cuz they're jealous of ...how you're living and giving.

I keep
moving forward, pressing onward, striving further
I keep
keep on laughing, keep on living, keep on loving yeah
I keep
keep on dreaming keep on achieving, keep on believing
I keep
I keep smiling when I come thru...and I cry when I need too.

some of them, oh they stab you in your back, cuz it's love they lack.
some of them won't even try...to see the good inside.
but I ....

I keep
moving forward, pressing onward, striving further
I keep
keep on laughing, keep on living, keep on loving yeah
I keep
keep on dreaming keep on achieving, keep on believing

hey. oh oh oh
I keep on, keep on living, keep on learning , keep on smiling ooh ooh yeah
keep on laughing, keep on living, keep on loving yeah
I keep
keep on dreaming, keep on believing, keep on achieving.
I keep smiling when I come thru, and I cry when I need to

I keep on , keep on keeping on.
yeah, I keep ,keep on keep keepin on keep keeping on...

- Jill Scott

back on my game (with a cover!)

2009-11-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

The blog Gods probably think I'm the lamest blogger, ever. Sometimes I think so, too. My only excuse - well it's not as much an excuse as an explanation - is that the faster life moves, the harder I fall off of my blogging game.

Please forgive me...

Today, I'm in the library catching up on some work and trying to meet impossible deadlines, as per my usual. I ate waaaaaaay to much food (and birthday cake!) over the holiday weekend and I must repent, starting today. Well, maybe I should start tomorrow since I've already started the day off with a slice of pizza. But then again, I made sure to order the "broccoli & mushroom" slice, so I did have some veggies. That counts, right? Right?!

Anyway, I wanted to post the image for my latest cover story, which shall be hitting newsstands momentarily. Also, here's a link to a little online story I whipped up, real quick, on Anika Noni Rose and The Princess and the Frog.

I'm so happy that we featured Anika as this movie is a must-see. I was sitting in the theater, wishing I was seven-years-old and seeing Miss Tiana on screen as my first princess. All the little girls, all over the world, should be thrilled about the movie and the merchandise. Did I mention that Tiana's princess gown is fah-bulous!

Happy Monday, ya'll.

oh, and one more thing...

2009-11-02T21:06:00.001-08:00

The volume and consumption of pop culture is far too loud for me these days. It's a whole lot.

am I the last to know?

2009-11-02T20:48:00.000-08:00

Today, I got the memo that it's better to be fast than to be good. Am I the last to know? I think so.

What am I supposed to do with that information...quicken my pace and just be cool with being wack? There has to be a happy medium. There just has to be.

pure, unadulterated randomness.

2009-10-12T23:10:00.001-07:00

Though I'm ashamed to admit (some of) it, here are a few things that have been wracking my brain as of late...in no particular order.

OK -

The Wendy Williams Show.
I'm officially-obsessed. She finally got the guest line-up together and the show is hilariously-insane. Love it. I should be honest and admit that I'm currently watching today's episode on Tivo, hence she's at the top of this list.

Barack Obama.
How can folks be hating on him so, 10 months into his Presidency? The naysayers act as though he destroyed the economy, started wars and zapped the life out this country. They are truly pissed about the Peace Prize, too. As if! Keep doing your thing, B. Note to the haters: Fall Back. Damn!

Southland.
Just did a fabulous piece on Regina King...how on earth could this show be canceled? I'm livid!

The Mo'Nique Show.
Why is she screaming?
- sidebar: Is she serious about jacking up her chances for an Oscar nom? Sure seems that way.

The Game.
Been watching reruns. Pooch Hall is a hottie.

Jay Leno.
This new 10pm time slot is going to do a number on primetime television (see previous note re: Southland!)

sushi.
Is it bad that I want to eat spicy tuna rolls every, single day?

Wanda Sykes.
Her mainstream swerve is the real deal.

The Good Wife.
Feeling it! I've always wondered what happened on the home front once the dust settled after a "political, sex scandal." I wonder if Eliot Spitzer's wife is watching.

Good Hair.
No disrespect to my weave sisters, but do ya'll not realize that you all have the same hairstyle?

Usher vs. Tameka.
I could care less, really!

Mad Men.
Am I the only person who's not hooked? I feel like I need to get into it, pronto.

Halloween.
Finally, I've been invited to a sure-to-be-fab Halloween shindig. Whom shall I be? Hmmm...

Jay-Z.
The Blueprint 3. Enough said.

Starbucks.
They must be sprinkling crack rocks into their blended drinks. That's the only justification I can muster for my addiction.

Verizon Wireless.
The worst customer service - ever!

the California sun.
Like, where is it?

books.
I must find something fabulous to read...like, now.

award tour.

2009-09-24T22:25:00.000-07:00

OK, perhaps I've exaggerated a bit. I wasn't necessarily on an award tour this past Sunday...it was actually HBO's Primetime Emmy Awards post-party. I bumped into the honorable, ever-fabulous, Michael Williams, who graciously posed-up with me for this shot.

All I'll say is that HBO knows how to throw a bash. The Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood was decked out in full True Blood regalia, so much so that I almost felt tempted to catch up on the show. Almost. Something tells me that I'm probably the only person who's not hooked on the series, but honestly, I just don't get down with blood & vampires. But I did drink my fair share of blood, orange soda at the soiree, which was everything. I think I've found my new drug of choice.

The guest list was fabulous. Off the top of my head, Bill Maher was in the house as was Shirley MacLaine - love her! - Jeff Garlin, Jamie Hector (who will just always be Marlo Stanfield to me, sorry, Jamie!), Sigourney Weaver, Chloe Sevigny, the Entourage crew and who else? Oh, and I got to chat with one of my favorite stars-on-the-rise, Tristan Wilds. I think he's such a winner. Trust me, keep watching. I can't say that I actually tune into to see him on 90210 (I'm officially out of the demo) but I'll be sure to buy a ticket for his next flick, Red Tails, which chronicles the Tuskegee Airmen and hits theaters in 2010. And a special shout goes out to publicist extraordinaire, Cecile Cross-Plummer. Thanks for looking out, girl.

Wait, how could I forget to mention the buffet? Beet salad, seared tuna, corn tortellini...yum-my! But the best part of the night had to be walking out with a giftbag chock full o' Laura Mercier goodies. Yes! But then again, my feet didn't ache - like, not at all! - which is always a very good thing.

happy birthday, Val!

2009-08-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

Val's in town...and as of yesterday, she is a year older! I will not divulge her age because doing so might jeopardize the sheer veil of truth that I have draped over my age. She's sitting here laughing at me as I type that line.

Yesterday, we ate and ate and ate...and ATE...at the Four Seasons for brunch. Her ace-boon from back in the day - the honorable Barbara H. - sent her a lovely birthday arrangement, which the host delivered as soon as we sat at our patio table. Aren't those colors fabulous?!

All that said, please join me in wishing my mom a happy birthday and a blessed ?? year! I loved seeing the smile on her face when the waiter delivered her "Happy Birthday Mom" ice-cream spread! That was yesterday...today, I'm dropping her off at the spa!

not to make it all about me, but -

2009-08-07T16:40:00.001-07:00

There's nothing like a fab cover story to make a girl feel...well, fab!

Check the September issue of Essence, on stands now, which also features a heartwarming dedication to MJ. Ironically, Gabrielle and I had our interview, over dinner, on the night before MJ and Farrah's deaths.

OK, a couple of random musings:

1. This morning, I picked up a copy of Vanity Fair (see previous post) and on top of being enthralled by the MJ pictorial, I was, for some reason, completely fascinated by the Farrah Fawcett story which is, oddly enough, 75% focused on Ryan O'Neal. He is a total piece of work, which I've known since I read Tatum's book, A Paper Life, a few years back. All I'll say is that Tatum - along with her three brothers whom are, seemingly, just as broken as she is - gets a pass from me. If you'd been raised by an abusive/druggie/narcissistic/evil bastard of a parent like O'Neal, you might be shooting up, too. That man is such a monster and by his own admission, made the lives of those he claimed to love quite miserable. Makes me wonder what his early life was like.

2. I just read on cnn.com that Billy Mays, the Oxy-Clean pitchman dude, had coke in his system at the time of his death. While that is quite an unfortunate fact, do the masses really need to know that he was hitting the powder? I mean, is anything sacred? I could see if he'd caused harm to others (a la Diane Schuler, who was high and all kinds of drunk when she stepped behind the wheel and killed 8 people including herself, her daughter and three nieces as well as three others), but why are people's toxicology results up for public consumption? It's a tad much.

3. Last, but surely not least - BIG UP TO SUPREME COURT JUSTICE SONIA SOTOMAYOR. She'll be confirmed tomorrow. How amazing is that? Very.

Happy weekend.

oh, Michael.

2009-08-03T22:52:00.000-07:00

I have pretty much sworn off of any further MJ coverage. The shady doctor(s), the questions about the will, the unsubstantiated drama and of course, Joe Jackson - it's all just too much.

But then I saw this cover of Vanity Fair, which he shares with Farrah and hits stands on Wednesday. I almost burst into tears because I think it's finally setting in.

I listened to Michael and his brothers all the time, even before the events of June 25. The brothers Jackson stay on constant rotation in the whip, on my morning walks, on the Bose. Always.

But I'm beginning to realize that no matter how many times I play Heartbreak Hotel (oh, excuse me, This Place Hotel ) or I Wanna Be Where You Are or Speed Demon or Butterflies or Heaven Can Wait or Another Part of Me or Lady in My Life or Dancing Machine or Stranger in Moscow or Blame it on the Boogie or Get on the Floor or Let Me Show You, he's gone.

The music will live on, forever, but Michael is really gone.

what to do?

2009-08-03T19:40:00.001-07:00

So, what should really be happening between the time when one door closes and another (hopefully, more fabulous) one opens?

Does one stand by, waiting, patiently?

Or does it make more sense to step up, with an extended arm, ready to take hold of the next doorknob?

Until I figure it out, I think I'll just chill for a sec, cool my jets. Then I'll take a deep breath.

Where is the manual when you need it?!

FINE, I'll admit it!

2009-07-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

The art of forgiveness is not my strong suit. It's not something I'm necessarily proud of, but don't I deserve a point or two for owning up to it?

No matter how many ways I've tried - and I have tried - it always feels like it's for the other person. Mind you, I'm not the type to stand around sticking needles in anyone's voodoo doll, but as far as the whole ceremony of, "Oh, you tried to break me, but now we're OK - really!" I could kind of care less. Life goes on, I move on and I'd rather not burn my good candles to honor old situations. My dear friend, Courtney, who is celebrating his birthday as I type this post, thinks I'm evil because of it. I disagree, often.

So, that brings me to my horoscope, which I just got around to reading at 9pm. Here's the opener:

It’s been said that resentment is like drinking poison, then expecting the other person to die. Time to put an end to all that...

Well, damn.

OK.

Is that what I've been doing?

Surely, it's seems easier to read those words on the screen than to put them into practice, but what do I have to lose - a pesky bottle of poison and a handful of leftover resentment?

Does that mean that I have to keep trying to master this thing called forgiveness?

Maybe.

searching, searching.

2009-07-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping -praying - that my moral compass can direct me to the middle ground between head-completely-under-the-water submersion and agonizing restraint.

Is there really a balance between the two or should I just admit that I'm a masochist? Hmmm, I wonder...

Thankfully, I can still find humor within all of the confusion - on some days, anyway. I suppose the fact that I've had to contain my laughter as I typed this post is an indication that today is a good day.

move!

2009-07-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

I would never suggest that every person I cross paths with has to be for me - not even. What I don't understand, however, are the people who seem to go out of their way to make things difficult. What is that?

I'd like to think that I am quite aware of my own strengths, my own power. I try to stay focused on whatever mission I'm striving toward, be it personal or professional. And while it would certainly be uber fabulous to be handed a silver platter containing every, single thing I want, that's not who I am and I don't have the time to sit around waiting. That said, what really makes me crazy is dealing with people who try to stand in the way of my progress.

I remember watching an old interview with Keenan Ivory Wayans where he said that he believes that, "'No' just means 'Not right now.'" While I totally agree with his sentiment, I would also like to tell the people who are standing in my way - hating, blocking, being nosey? - to, kindly, get out of my way. I'm on a mission, so move! For real.

get your ticket right.

2009-07-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Who, but Michael, could hop off a motorcycle in the middle of a make-believe desert and dance his ass off alongside an animated rabbit - decked out in a thousand snaps & buckles, no less? And damn if the sound of his dancing isn't dope, too. Bananas.

I always kinda dug Speed Demon. Work, MJ!

"a six letter word for shift; transition."

2009-07-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

So, this guy is singing Everything Must Change on the corner, with mic and guitar, and I stopped in my tracks. He just threw in his own ad lib, "Don't be afraid of change..."

The simplest words can usually do a number on me. I've always loved that song, even before I really understood the message. Now, the lyrics make so much more sense. I can admit that I am a fan of nearly every version I've heard, including Quincy, Chaka and Simply Red's beautiful rendition. How is it possible that she sings just as fabulously in another language? Love her. Did I mention that I used to try to channel Chaka, hard, when I was a kid? I think it was the big hair. She always served.

As a sidebar, the situation with Michael has just reinforced, yet again, what I already believed to be true - no matter where we (re) start our journey, life should not be lived as a trite dress rehearsal. By now, we've all seen the footage from his final rehearsal. Despite all the weight he'd been carrying around, for decades, he was kinda turning it out.

out on a limb.

2009-07-16T21:53:00.001-07:00

So, what does one do when one takes a chance, walks out further on a limb than one expected to and then...nothing? Does one crawl back to the tree trunk (with a tucked tail), hold on for dear life until one taps into that bonus layer of courage or just let go, brace for the fall and try another branch?

Perhaps one shall see how one feels after this episode of Sex and the City, followed by a few hours of sleep. Perhaps all of the answers will be right there, waiting for this one in the morning.

Did that make any sense?

this is where I am right now...

2009-07-14T14:06:00.000-07:00

gloves up, fighting with words.

Sadly, I think the words are winning.
They're kicking my ass, actually.

Ah, what to do, what to do?

I think the real problem is that my mind is elsewhere...on other things, other people (than those I'm supposed to be writing about) and just trying to make sense of life. It still amazes me how far off my mind can really wander when I have so much writing to do. It's a damn shame.

Anyway...

Onward.
Upward.
Right?

get the point?

2009-07-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

Good.
Let's dance...

Is it just me or is Mike bouncing like he was raised down in Bankhead?
I was done, even before I reached the 3:50 mark.

Divinity in motion.

D-o-p-e.

the worst thing, ever.

2009-06-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

I mean, I know that bad things happen in the world, in life, but really, how could Michael Jackson be gone? It just doesn't seem real. Or fair.

Like mostly everyone I've spoken to, I'm still very much in shock. Part of me hopes that he pulled the ultimate stunt and is actually on a secret island...just because he needed to get away from all of this. But I know he wouldn't do that to his mom, to his kids. I guess I just wish there was a better explanation for him not being here anymore.

More than anything, I always hoped that Michael loved himself as much as we did. Sadly, I don't believe that to be true. Wherever he is now, I just hope that he's happy.

it might be gloomy in june, but...

2009-06-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

July issues are on the stands!

Ask anyone who knows me well and they will tell you that gray skies do a number on my psyche. Hence, June Gloom 2009 is wearing me all the way o-u-t! Waking up without the sun in my eyes is just not right. [sulking]

Then I remembered that my latest cover story is on the stands and everything seemed right with the world again. If you haven't already, check out July cover girl, Queen Latifah. For those of you that have been following her career, do you realize that it's been 20 years since she released her debut, All Hail the Queen?

She's come a long way since '89 and this many years later, she continues to make her mark, across genres. Her longevity, her grind, is ridiculous. I am so not mad.

memory lane.

2009-06-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

As I predicted, I got misty during Minnie Riperton's Unsung profile tonight. I was just a kid when she passed away, but I remember thinking, "Oh no, that lady died." Well, tonight I learned more about who that lady was.

Of course, Lovin' You sticks out in my mind and I always really loved Memory Lane and Inside My Love, which is just so, so ...what's the word? It's beyond sexy. It's one of those songs that just makes you want to fall in love, slowly. But when my good friend downloaded Come to My Garden for me a while back, I was completely in awe when I heard her sing the lyrics to Les Fluer. I mean, that must be one of the most splendid songs ever written and recorded. Simply beautiful.

I vaguely remember the clips of her performing on Soul Train and on The Mike Douglas Show, but it was really interesting to hear about her work with The Gems and Rotary Connection (their version of Aretha's Respect was fabulous!) and how much Stevie Wonder adored her voice. I loved watching the home videos and the performance pieces of her sporting that big 'fro and those ridiculously-huge hoop earrings. As a sidebar, I had no idea that A Tribe Called Quest sampled her vocals. Who knew?

Years ago when Maya Rudolph stepped onto the Saturday Night Live stage, I was thrilled to know that she was Minnie's daughter. Even as she brought the laughs, I always wondered about the sadness she must carry, which she spoke about tonight. I recently saw Maya, now pregnant with her second child, making the talk-show rounds for her new movie, Away We Go, and she talked about how her daughter sings along to Grandma Minnie's songs. It's crazy how life just goes on...it's beautiful and sad at the same time. My heart nearly broke when her brother said that the last time he saw his mother, he was on his way to a baseball game and she was on a stretcher. Listening to her husband choke up as he spoke about her final days just about did me in.

Now that I'm a grown woman, I realize just how young 31 is. She accomplished a great deal during her short life and I can only imagine how much she would have loved to see her kids grow up and play with her grandchildren. And just to think about all the songs she could have sung, how many of those high notes she could have hit...

Although I knew how the story would end, I was especially touched by the words that Minnie spoke on the decades-old recording that played just before the fade-out...

"Feel really good about what you're doing, regardless if it takes a long time or if it happens really quickly. Just have a good time - stay happy."

Thanks so much, Minnie.

yet another interesting fortune.

2009-06-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

I've been wondering why so many people from my past have been reemerging lately...some I'm happy to hear from, others I don't quite remember and then there are those who've got me thinking, "How did you find me, and why?"

Then I opened my fortune cookie the other night and found this:

An old friend will introduce you to new people and pleasures.

Word? I guess I'll just have to stay open to the fierce people and fah-bulous pleasures that are in my future. Could be cute.

Stay tuned.

a few, post-midnight notes.

2009-06-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

"In the year 3000, the creators of Youtube, Twitter and Facebook will merge to form one, big, time-wasting conglomerate called "YouTwitFace."

- Conan O'Brien

I know it's after midnight, on a Wednesday, but I hereby elect Conan as my favorite person of the week. Oh, and I've just realized that his Tonight Show version of the "string dance" is like double (or is it triple?) time. He is completely out of his mind.

One more thing. Went to a screening of Nurse Jackie tonight. After June 8th, I doubt if anyone will refer to Edie Falco as "Carmela" anymore. She kills it on this new show. Pun intended.

call me corny...

2009-06-01T23:43:00.000-07:00

but I digs Conan O'Brien.

I think he did his thing for his debut on The Tonight Show. I was cracking up from the moment he opened with his "running relocation" from NY to LA - through Manhattan, across Wrigley Field, past the Gateway Arch, the "Welcome to Vegas" sign and then finally, onto the 101. Hilarious! And I'm so glad that he did the "string dance." He's a funny dude. This old clip with Stephen Colbert still cracks me up.

I should also say that me and Dave Letterman go back to my high school days when I was a serious insomniac. Back then, he was on at 12:30, but now that he and Conan share a time slot, I'm not sure who I should watch, live, and who shall get TiVo'd? Hmmmm.

11 words of wisdom.

2009-05-03T20:22:00.000-07:00

Forget the doubts and fears that are creeping into your heart.

Those are the words I found on the little piece of paper tucked inside my fortune cookie this afternoon.

I think I will do as I'm told...

this has to stop.

2009-04-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

Our society's obsession with celebrity culture has been wrecking havoc on my nerves for a long while now. I, for one, can admit that I know more about people who I don't even know than I do a few of my friends. We all do. It's really becoming a bit much.

That said, I found this US Weekly cover of Lindsay Lohan to be particularly disturbing. I haven't read the story, but online reports suggest that she actually participated, willingly, in the story...via e-mail and phone calls, during which she was weeping.

This girl is clearly in need of help, but it seems that "they" won't be happy until they're reporting on her funeral arrangements. Then what?

On the flip-side, I should mention that there are a number of Hollywood types who've been known to court the media. Many thrive off of a steady stream of attention. Maybe Lindsey will have the last laugh in the long run...who knows?

it's either me...

2009-04-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

or CNN.

For the sake of my sanity, I think I'm going to have to choose me.

No matter what I do, the television seems to keep finding its way back to channel 037. There are times when I enjoy having CNN play in the background while I answer e-mails or do my expenses, but it's been wearing me out for the last few days. Really, it's all just too much.

I know we are in tough times, but it's really disheartening to watch all these reports of people spiraling out of control...in a blaze of unnecessary violence. As much as like to be informed about what's going on, I've got to take a news moratorium.

I will be changing the channel tomorrow.

a pooch named paris.

2009-03-31T08:47:00.001-07:00

The saga of my little, four-legged friend has taken so many twists and turns since last Sunday's post. So many people have asked for a follow-up and although I've told the tale a few times, I promised that I would blog it out...just to get it off my chest.

Before I trudge through the sordid details, let me start by saying that the dog - who's given name, I learned, is Paris - is back home, with her "real" mom. Little Paris' journey was not a smooth one, not by any stretch of the imagination. But as that saying goes, all's well that ends well...even after you've thought evil thoughts about the person with whom you're trying to reunite a beloved pooch. I added that last part in.

So, the second half of the story picks up last Monday morning when I took the dog to not one, but two, nearby animal clinics to get her scanned for this infamous chip. Much to my dismay, there was no chip to be scanned. My heart sank when both of the pet nurses (is that what they're called?) ran the scanner across her back and neck, without the "beep" I'd been praying for.

Maybe it's just me, but I found that everyone at both clinics was so sweet, almost nicer than the front desk personnel at my doctor's office. As I stated previously, people love dogs in this town, so everyone, including the doggie parents sitting in the waiting room, was oohing & ahhing when I shared the story of finding the dog on the street. I left my name and number with both vets in the hopes that someone might inquire about their missing dog. By now, I'd given up on the signs that I'd posted because at this point, we were three days in. Where were the dog's parents?

Let me back up for a few. In the days that the dog - who I didn't name, but referred to, ever so kindly, as "c-mon, c-mon" - was in my care, she was a joy, except for the few accidents she had on my floor. I did give her credit for making her mistakes on the hard wood in the living and not the carpet in my bedroom. She'd been sleeping on her little, floor pillow between bouts of sitting up under me on my bed. She seemed to enjoy her morning and late afternoon walks and danced in circles whenever she heard me pour her food into her "bowl," which was actually one of my empty tofu containers. And no matter how many times I insisted that she sit in the passenger seat while riding in the whip, she continued to inch her way into my lap until she found a comfortable position, adjacent to the breeze coming from the window. I even cracked up laughing one night when she snapped up a carrot stick that I'd dropped and dashed into my bedroom where she discovered that it was, well...just a carrot. Dogs can really be quite hilarious.

My heart got softer every time I looked down at her, yet I knew that I couldn't keep the dog. I'd been replaying the whole vet scenario in my head on Monday afternoon when my phone rang around 3pm. I didn't recognize the number. When I picked up, I heard a woman's voice. She sounded excited that I'd answered and I thought, Finally, the call! But after a few seconds, I realized that this was a concerned dog lover on the other line, not this dog's owner. The woman - let's call her "Dale" - had a sister who lives in my neighborhood and had visited the first vet that I'd taken the dog to. When the receptionist shared with her my story, she passed my number on to Dale, who, in turn, called me to say that she would be more than happy to make a home for the dog. She, too, had a poodle and had been looking to add another to her brood.

I was happy to have such an offer on the table, but I was still determined to exhaust my options to return the dog to her rightful owner. After we hung up, I posted my first-ever ad on craigslist.com, filed it under "pets," and crossed my fingers. I actually got two responses from people hoping that I'd found their dog, but still nothing from the real owner. Monday ticked by, then Tuesday, and I felt as though I'd made no progress. I really didn't know what to do. Dale's offer was seeming more and more appealing, so much so that when she called again, I told her that I'd still not heard anything and if she wanted to add to her family, the dog was hers for the taking. She came by at 1:30pm Wednesday afternoon.

As we stood outside, talking and playing with the dog, I started to get a little misty. I was holding onto the leash when it hit me that I was actually going to miss the dog. After a half-hour chat, during which time, Dale and I exchanged contact information and made a pact to return the dog if "the call" ever came, I handed over the leash, patted the poodle on the head and waved as they pulled off in the opposite direction. I really thought I'd done a good thing.

The second my phone rang, five hours later, I knew. Again, it was a phone number that I didn't recognize, but this time, it was the call that I'd been waiting for. I was relieved, but also anxious about refiguring the details. When I tried to explain the situation, the woman - let's call her "Eve" - said, "I can't believe you gave away my dog. It would have been better if you'd just taken her to the pound."

Wow. Really? I would never take a dog to the pound. I've been to the pound before and I wouldn't leave my worst enemy there. Aside from the fact that the animals look sick, unloved and sad in the eyes, I always think that they are going to be put to sleep, no matter what the staff tells you. That's just my opinion. But then again, I'm also someone who would make sure that any pet of mine would either be chipped or at the very least, have on a tag. Had I really picked this dog off the street, cared for it for almost a week and tried to help her get back home, only to be on the receiving end of some attitude? I was shocked and amazed, but instead of cursing out the ingrate on my phone, I gave her Dale's number so they could work out the details.

After a few minutes, I was about to burst. So, I called Eve back. I wanted her to know the real-deal and proceeded to walk her through every, single detail of what happened with her dog. She was silent when I told her about watching her dog walk across the street at 10pm. She was silent when I shared with her the lengths I'd gone to try to return her dog. When I repeated, three times, "Please get your dog chipped," she finally spoke up. She told me that her son had let the dog out on Friday, in error, but didn't fess up until Sunday. Huh? She also told me that she should have listened when one of her co-workers suggested that she look on craigslist. She told me that the dog's name was Paris and then she finally spoke the two words I thought I deserved to hear - "Thank you." Was that so hard?

So, how did Eve find me, you wonder? Well, she was putting up signs in her neighborhood when a man stopped her to say that there had been a woman walking around with a poodle and posting signs. Ironically, that man was someone who I'd stopped to speak with when I was making my rounds. In fact, I'd put a sign on the tree right in front of his house, which he pointed out to her. I wonder if she thanked him?

On Thursday, a much more grateful-sounding Eve called and left me a message to thank me again and to say that Paris was happy and settling back into her old life. She said that she wanted to meet me and also, give me the opportunity to really say good-bye Paris. I called her back and we made a tentative date for Sunday morning. She said she would be around all weekend, so anytime time was good. In Eve's defense, I did call her an hour after I'd promised. I was exhausted after hanging out on Saturday night, but when I woke up, I called and left her a message stating that my early afternoon and early evening were open for our meet-and-greet. That was on Sunday. It's now Tuesday morning and I haven't heard back. I'm not sure if I ever will, but that's OK.

Little Miss Paris taught me a very valuable lesson. Sometimes, it's just about doing the right thing, simply because it's the right thing to do. Period. Although I was initially shocked by Eve's response to the whole situation, none of that really matters at this point. At the end of the day, the dog made it home, safely, and that was my sole mission when I picked her up off of the street on that Friday night. My work is done.

the (canine) parent trap.

2009-03-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

So, I'm driving home from a friend's house on Friday night and who do I see at the stop sign? A little, white poodle...no parent, no leash, no idea that she is "thisclose" to getting hit by an oncoming car. I had to pull over.

Let me just say that I am a devout, dog lover, with a lot of baggage. I still think about my first dog, Brandy, a German shepherd who came trotting down my street one afternoon when I was a kid. She was happy-go-lucky, lovable and since she was trained-to-a-T, my mother acquiesced to my pleas to keep her when nobody came along to claim her. I adored Brandy, probably still have a picture of her somewhere and was devastated when we had to give her away when we moved. It took me forever to get over that, but I always believed my mother when she said that she had no doubt that Brandy was enjoying her new life with her new family.

Since then, I've not owned a dog, but I have been a great "auntie" to a number of my friend's dogs. I'm definitely the one who will take someone's dog to the dog park because I think that he/she needs to run and hang out with other dogs. I've also been known to sneak in a few doggie treats when their parents aren't looking and play tug-o-war with a rope for hours.

When I moved to L.A., I realized, almost immediately, that dogs rule this city. In fact, Los Angeles magazine even dedicated an entire 2006 issue to dogs/pets...see the adorable beagle on the cover image shown above? I used to feel like the only person who didn't own a dog here, which was fine by me. I didn't really have room in my life for a pet anyway. I was traveling a lot and honestly, the thought of having to walk a dog, twice a day, every day, did not appeal to me. But then, I got really attached to a friend's dog, who was just the sweetest, kindest and most fun cocker spaniel on the whole planet. Although she chewed up a pair of my pumps during one of her extended visits, I couldn't be mad at her for very long. Sadly, she vanished one day. Maybe she slipped out the yard. Maybe someone snatched her up. Either way, we never saw her again and I was so sad, so worried. I made a promise to myself to not get too attached to any more four-legged friends because having to say good-bye is just too heartbreaking.

Then, a few years later, I saw a pitbull-type power-walking down the street outside my bedroom window one afternoon. The dog lover in me wanted to run downstairs and pull him out of the way of traffic, but he looked like he knew where he was going and honestly, I thought he might bite the hand that was trying to save him. I said a little prayer to the pet Gods and hoped that he'd make it to his destination safely. Sadly, he did not. Two days later, his lifeless body was laying on the grass, in full view from my bedroom window. I was sick with guilt.

So, fast-forward to this past Friday...there's no way that I could just drive off after seeing a little dog walking the streets, by her lonesome. I pull over, get out of the car and approach the dog. I breathe a sigh of relief when I see that she's wearing a collar, but when I turn it around on her neck, I notice that there is no tag. Damn. I go back to my car, pull the string from the hood of one of my sweatshirts and make a leash. I'm convinced that if we walk around the block, the dog will just direct me to her humble abode.

No dice.

After we pass a few houses, I realize that she thinks I'm taking her on a nature walk, rather than a short trek to her front door. Now I'm freaking out. I do not need a dog. I don't want a dog. What am I going to do?

As I turn the key to my front door, dog in hand, I'm thinking that I can just take her to a local vet, see if she's got a chip and call up her parents like, "Guess who I found?" Before I can even think about finding a vet on Saturday morning, I start obsessing about where this dog is going to sleep [for the record, she jumped on my bed a few times, as if it were her bed], what I'm going to feed it and how early I have to get up to make sure I don't wake up to any "surprises."

I wake up at 7am, exhausted, but am determined to take her for a quick walk around the block. I come back, crawl under the covers, and wake up two hours later to make a trip to a neighborhood vet, who couldn't scan her for a chip because his machine wasn't working. Brilliant. I head over to Petco and they can't help me either. I then drive back over to my friend's block with my fingers crossed in the hopes that there is a "I lost my dog," sign posted around. Nothing. What am I going to do with a dog?

Then I have an a-ha! moment. Since I'm the one who took the dog, maybe it's my responsibility to post signs. After all, I am driving around with someone's dog, right? So, I write up a few signs, grab some tape and head back over to the "scene". I chat up a few people who pass by, some with their own dogs. They all applaud me for my efforts and promise to keep their eye out for someone who might be missing a dog.

It's been 30 hours since I've posted those signs and not a single call. I've taken the dog with me to the farmer's market, to the dollar store to buy a real leash and some dog food - hey, it's a recession - and have even offered up one of my floor pillows for her to sleep on. She's gone from whining when I leave the room to barking at me like, "Yo, where are you going?" While I'm still waiting for someone to call about the dog, I'm wondering what to call the dog - Fido, Puppy, Poodle, Kibble?

I do believe that everything happens for a reason, but I can't figure this one out. I will do my best to be a good interim doggie parent, but I really do hope that someone calls to claim her. Like most dogs do, she's sniffing every corner and trying to get a lay of the land, but I hope that she's not too traumatized by the events of the last two days.

Because I'm still a sucker for a cute dog, I will take her for a long walk in the morning, with her new leash, even as I keep my fingers crossed that somehow, someway, we will find her way back home.

my ears are ringing.

2009-03-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

Can somebody please turn down the volume? Please?

I really can't bear to hear any more reports about:
(listed in no particular order)

- "Chrihanna"

- Michelle Obama's fabulous arms (although she's inspired me to do some push-ups!)

- Octomommy (or as Perez Hilton calls her, "Octopussy" - hilarious!)

- plummeting home values

- foreclosure rates

- unemployment rates

- print vs. web

- facebook vs. twitter vs. blogging

- bernie madoff (good riddance!)

- "sexting"

There's a lot more stuff that's been grating on my nerves lately, but those are the first things that came to mind. Enough already...like, seriously.

Then again, perhaps I could just turn off the television. What a novel concept.

history.

2009-01-20T20:37:00.001-08:00

Like everybody else, I am completely and utterly high on President Obama. I mean, so high that I could pass out at any second.

This morning, I headed out around 7 o'clock to take my spot on the lawn for inauguration. To my surprise, my dearest, Kenny Ward, who I'd arranged to meet up with on the walk over, landed three, "silver tickets" just hours before and was gracious enough to share the wealth with yours truly and his sister, Lenne'. Kenny snapped a gang of photos, including this shot of me and Lenne' as we were making our way through the crowd and needless to say, her sweatshirt was a huge hit! I had my handmade, Obama bracelet tied onto my right wrist, tucked under my yellow glove and beneath two layers of sweaters. It was freezing cold, but I don't think we really felt the chilly air. We were all too busy screaming and looking at each other in disbelief, like..."Can you believe this is happening?" Yes we can.

I have so much to type, so many thoughts to share, but I'm a bit too wound up to type it all out tonight. I promise a full post in the days to come. Here's hoping that I'll be able to speak in clear sentences when I come down...and thaw out.

it's on!

2009-01-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

2009 is officially upon us.
Let's make it count, y'all.

Happy New Year!

aha!

2008-12-29T22:14:00.000-08:00

I've found it.

The mojo that I keep thinking that I've misplaced has been located.

Who knew that it was right here, with me, all along? Maybe it just needed a couple of days (cough: weeks) to take a breather. Maybe whenever I think I've lost it, it's just over there...resting, regenerating, taking a break from me.

Looking forward to 2009, I think I'll just be quiet and wait for it to come back to me rather freaking out, thinking that I've lost it, for good. I'll just keep reminding myself that only when you set something free will there be a chance that it might actually back.

penny for my thoughts.

2008-12-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

I found this picture online this afternoon. The artist entitled it Pensive. I'm right there.

There are so many thoughts racing through my mind that I can barely make sense of it all. I suppose watching this Steve Harvey marathon on BET isn't exactly helping the process, but for some reason, I can't seem to turn the channel away from Steve, Regina, Lovita Alize Jenkins and Cedric Jackie Robinson. This show was hilarious.

Christmas will be upon us in just four days. The New Year, a week later. 99.5% of my holiday cards have been mailed and I have but one remaining gift to purchase, which I can do tomorrow, but really, I'm not ready quite ready for the holidays to be here. I guess I just can't believe that another year has flown by. But then again, if I do the math, we are officially at 355 days, and counting.

I've yet to actually put pen to paper to write down my resolutions because they're free-flowing around in my head. Without giving too, too much away, I'll say that the majority of my resolutions involve the idea of "more" - read more, do more, write more, get out more, love more, explore more, live...more. Rather than putting a unfair amount of pressure on myself to get started on January 1st, I've been trying to work my way up so that by the time the clock strikes midnight on the 31st, I've already put my plans into motion.

There's just so much to do in this life. There's no reason not to start right now.

the race is on.

2008-12-17T23:28:00.001-08:00

Last week, I got a chance to screen Seven Pounds and tonight, I saw The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. These folks are gunning for Oscars.

A fellow journalist told me that she found Seven Pounds to be depressing, but I didn't have that same feeling. I was moved, definitely, but I didn't shed a tear. As corny as it might sound, the movie got me to thinking about life...and of, course, one's purpose. Perhaps I carried those thoughts with me into the theater showing Benjamin Button tonight because I wiped my eyes a few times. I even cried on my drive home as Jill Scott sang Wanna Be Loved.

I have tons more movies to see before Oscar time - including Slumdog Millionaire and Wrestler, both of which I've heard are quite amazing - but for now, I'm sweating Will, Brad and Cate. Oh, and although I've still not forgiven her for scream-singing It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp at the ceremony two years ago, I would be remiss if I didn't give major props to Taraji P. for her turn as Benjamin's mother, Queenie.

for real, though.

2008-12-11T23:20:00.000-08:00

Does anybody write on their blogs anymore?
Do folks read blogs anymore?

Facebook has taken over the world, hasn't it?
That's not a rhetorical question, by the way.

it all falls down.

2008-12-06T14:22:00.000-08:00

Did O.J. really get played like that? Did Judge Jackie Glass, who sentenced him to at least 15 years in the Las Vegas case, really have the audacity to even mention a previous case? Um, OK.

Since she brought it up, let me first say that I was never 100% convinced, without a shadow of doubt, that he was guilty of double homicide. I’m not suggesting that he wasn’t aware of what was going down or possibly even at the scene of the crime, but I don’t know if he committed the crime, with his two hands. I’m still not sure.

As a transplanted Los Angeleno, I live in a land of people who truly believe that the man is guilty, period. In fact, I’m certain that there are plenty of folks whom are rather overjoyed by the fact that fate has seemingly caught up to him. I can also imagine that the Goldman and Brown families want him locked up and the key, tossed into the middle of the Pacific.

Everyone is certainly entitled to their position, but from my vantage point, I see a life wasted, a legacy forever tarnished. He is a joke, but really, the tragedy that is O.J. Simpson is not all that funny. I wonder what drove him over the edge – the adoration, the fame, the money and access? Or was it all of that, combined with poor choices, arrogance and perceived invincibility?

Although his days of football fame were before my time, I do remember him being untouchable – and rather bankable – as the guy running through the airport for Hertz, doing his duty as a sports commentator and even making a bit of headway in those corny comedies. He played by a different set of rules for decades and learned how to maneuver his way through different rooms. He played golf with the heavyweights and seemingly bought into the hype. Then, he fell hard and now, it’s a wrap.

I feel for his kids and oddly, I’m almost happy that his mom didn’t live to see his final downfall. I mean, he will be 70 years old before he’s eligible for parole. I wonder what’s going through his mind, right this minute.

As I’ve professed here, many times, I am no sports fan. Many times, I only become acquainted with an athlete once he, or she, makes headlines. Just like with Michael Vick's case, I had no idea who Plaxico (could that really be his name?) Burress was until his face was splashed all over the front and back pages of the New York Post last week. Accidentally shooting oneself, in a New York nightclub, with an unregistered weapon? Who does that? What was he thinking? If it wasn’t bad enough to see him on the news, in handcuffs, wait until the powers-that-be catch up with the folks who helped with the cover up. It’s a mess, all the way around.

By no means do I profess to be a saint, but I guess I don’t understand how people whom are at the height of their game and with so much to lose find themselves in these predicaments. It’s not a judgment, but rather, an observation. I just don’t get it. I’ve been going back-and-forth with my Facebook friends about this very subject and nobody has any answers.

I guess it just is what it is. Fame and success are fleeting, yes, but the fact is that life is long...and nobody can predict how things will play out.

I'm just saying.

2008-11-19T22:39:00.000-08:00

Is it me or is Blair Underwood getting finer with each passing day?

As much as I try to follow what's going on on Dirty Sexy Money, I think it's fair to say that I'm probably just waiting for Blair's next scene. He serves up massive amounts of dark chocolate-ness and sometimes it's hard to turn away.

Oh, and although I'm not much into "lists," seeing him among People's Sexiest Men was kinda sweet!

I just had to put that out there. My work here is done.

music to her ears.

2008-11-10T21:30:00.000-08:00

I first learned of her when she was on the cover of Essence. I can't remember the exact month or year of the issue, but I'm thinking that it had to be some time during the very early '80s.

She was so beautiful on that cover and on the pages inside. Her deep-brown skin was just so luminous and she had the most beautiful smile. When I asked my mother who she was, she said, "That's Miriam Makeba!"

How sad it was to read of Miriam's passing this morning. But, how fitting that, at 76, she was still doing what she loved to do - performing. Here's hoping she could still hear the music playing, even as she slipped away.

blogging while drunk.

2008-11-09T00:06:00.000-08:00

I'm not really much of a drinker, but like many folks, I've been sipping on a gang of Obama Kool-Aid, for months now. I'm officially kind of drunk, yet I can't seem to put down my glass or stop grinning from ear-to-ear.

It's been almost a week since he was elected and I swear, I still can't believe it, but it's real. It's real. When I watched him speak at his first press conference on Friday morning, I just beamed at the screen like, "He looks so...Presidential!"

I watched Will Smith on Thursday's Oprah and when she asked how he felt about Barack's appointment, he said, simply, "There are no more excuses." I mean, really. This man climbed out of the trenches and worked and worked and worked his way to the top spot. Whenever I see him, I'm reminded that as much as the swerve is important, it's the sweat that keeps you in the game for the long haul.

I'm in on Saturday night and much to my surprise, I'm not tripping. Life is funny. I remember when I would go crazy if I stayed in the house for too long, especially on the weekend. Now, I'm content to finish up my expenses while watching this Tribe Called Quest/Q-Tip marathon on VH1 Soul. I forgot how fly Tip was, is. He makes me appreciate Queens just a little bit more.

To be honest, my brain is a tad bit tired right about now. I have a new rule - I will write (for work and fun) for six days and then, rest on the seventh. And since it's after midnight, I'm technically cutting into my one vacation day.

So, on that note, I'm out.

Happy Sunday.

PRESIDENT OBAMA.

2008-11-04T23:44:00.000-08:00

Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to collect myself enough to type something that's all deep & cerebral. For now, all I can say is...PRESIDENT OBAMA!

What an amazing night. What an historic journey.

We did it, y'all.

all done...now, the waiting.

2008-11-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

I was in-and-out of the voting booth in record time. No lines.

From this moment on, I shall be glued to the tube and surfing all over the 'net until the ballots are tallied. I'm excited and thrilled and scared and anxious and achey from sitting on really sharp pins & needles for the last two weeks.

I can't believe that this day is here. Now, let's all be calm so we can make it through the night and wake up to a glorious, victorious morning. Go OBAMA!

send her love.

2008-10-24T22:44:00.001-07:00

Remember that part in The Secret Life of Bees when Queen Latifah tells Dakota Fanning to send the bees love?

Well, that's what we all have to do for Jennifer. Just sent her love. Lots of it.

can't we just fast-forward through all of this?

2008-10-20T22:46:00.000-07:00

Oh, that's right, this is the presidential race...not my DVR.

I will admit that I am a flawed person. One of my flaws that I'm willing to admit here in the blogosphere is my desire to want to speed things up. I tend to just want to get to the good parts. It's not the most healthy or mature outlook on life, I know, but sometimes, taking it one day at a time can be excruciatingly painful.

All that said, I am so completely stressed-out/anxious/overwhelmed by all of the election coverage, aren't you? Aside from CNN marathons, the twisted pleasure I derive from watching Bill Maher every Friday and cracking up with Tina, Amy & Seth on SNL, I just want it all to be over. Can't it be November 5th already? Wait, let me be clear - I want it to be November 5th, with the right man standing at the podium, humbled to be accepting his first presidency, by a landslide, and making history. Michelle, Malia and Sasha will be standing and smiling by his side.

But then I have to think that if things had been sped up, I would have missed Colin Powell's long-anticipated endorsement (with feeling!) on Meet the Press on Sunday, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to see W. this past weekend (and buy my "support" ticket for The Secret Life of Bees, which I've already seen twice, and loved, at screenings) and I wouldn't be able to cast my vote on the morning of November 4th. Oh, and as a sidebar, I will so be voting "No" on Proposition 8 out here in Cali. Have you seen those hateful commercials veiled as a "warning" to parents? I know that everyone might not agree, but I do believe that folks should have the right, and the freedom, to live their lives and simply, "do them." Just my opinion.

But back to the presidential race. Barack is off to Hawaii to visit his sick grandmother. I surely hope she makes it to see him bring this home. Hang in there, grandma...he's almost there. Speaking of which, what about the 106-year-old woman who's thrilled to be alive, to be a witness? Talk about living to see the day...

Election Day is exactly two weeks from tomorrow. I'm going to try to cool my jets and take each 24-hour period as it comes. After all, the world, as we've known it, is about to change. Pun intended.

you got yours ready?

2008-10-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

Although it's like 9,000 degrees in L.A. (no lie, there was even a 3.0 earthquake here yesterday...yeah, I felt it!), I'm getting my popcorn ready for tomorrow's showdown - oops, I mean, vice-presidential debate. I think we all have a pretty good idea of what (little) Palin is bringing to the party, but I just hope that Biden can contain himself and not bark on her from his podium. Yo, Joe, if you're reading this, just be cool...she'll shoot off her own foot, not to worry.

Can I just say, again, that it's steaming out here right about now. I mean, it's almost 8:30pm on October 1st, what the hell is going on? Honestly, I think the heat is affecting my ability and focus to transcribe this interview on my digital recorder. Or perhaps, I'm just the epitome of laziness. Either way, I seriously need to hop to it. And so, I shall...

4o days, and counting.

2008-09-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

If there was a college course named Maintain: 101, there'd surely be a case study of Barack Obama's bid for the White House.

I am amazed by how he maintains his balance, his cool, while he walks through this fireball known as American politics. He handled his business like a pro this afternoon, got his point across (with a few, strategic jabs at McCain, for good measure) and didn't ruffle a feather. I think that's what's killing the Republicans. He outplays them at their own game.

He sounds ready for Friday's debate. Wonder if McCain will show?

I don't know about y'all...

2008-09-24T13:05:00.001-07:00

but I'm trying to decipher which brand of fuckery is going on right now.

Whatever it is, it don't sound right, especially considering that Bush is set to take the stage tonight, two days before the first, scheduled debate that McCain now wants to bow out of. They cannot be serious.

As I sit here watching an outraged Jack Cafferty on CNN, dissing MCain on his "cheap theatrics," I can barely wait to hear what Barack has to say. He should be out in a minute.

In case you were wondering, I'm "thisclose" to stuffing my dollars under the mattress...coins, too.

poor guy.

2008-09-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

Doesn't it seem like Clay was browbeaten, by the media, into submission?

Poor guy.

Now that he's 'fessed up (to the obvious), I wonder if folks will finally get off his back...and still buy his records. But then again, maybe the joy of being a dad will outweigh all of the noise and nonsense.

work!

2008-09-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

There's no greater reward than seeing three magazines stuffed in one's mailbox, on the same day. Seriously. That said, yesterday was a great day for me.

Bazaar was in there, so was Self, but imagine the pride I felt when I ripped the plastic off of my October issue of More magazine. I know that the powers-that-be are trying to do some jedi mindtricks on us with the McCain/Palin okey-doke maneuver (for the record, I find Palin to be quite scary and out-of-touch), but seeing Michelle Obama on the cover of this very mainstream publication speaks volumes to me. V-o-l-u-m-e-s.

I'm supposed to be writing (wait, I am writing!), so I will treat myself to reading this cover story - in it's entirety and sans interruption - before the clock strikes midnight tonight.

In the words of one of my most favorite characters, you'd better work, Ms. Michelle.

no one on the corner...

2008-09-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

I know that I might be a little late, but this is my new favorite (leaked) song. Puffy's interpretation/remix situation is kinda hot, too, but really, T.I.'s swagger is ridiculous.

question -

2008-09-19T23:22:00.000-07:00

How do you calculate a trillion dollars?

Considering that The Dark Knight raked in over $500 million at the box office, I'm assuming that it's got to be waaaaay more than that, right?

Maybe it's a 100 billion...or a million billion?
A billion billion?

Are these types of numbers even real?
It just doesn't add up.

oprah as maury?

2008-09-18T15:26:00.000-07:00

OK, I'm confused.

I tuned in to Oprah this afternoon for Part II of the whole "Why Do Men Cheat?" situation and to my surprise, there was a segment about the use of lie detectors.

I'm not (totally) ashamed to admit that I once had a really intense addiction to Maury's daily schtick - "...and the lie detector says that you tried to have sex with our sexy decoy" or my personal favorite, "You are the father of 4-year-old Tyrone!" - but on Oprah? The real kicker for me came at the half-hour mark when her guest, marriage counselor and author of The Truth About Cheating, M. Gary Neuman, tells you how to find your local lie detector center. I'm sorry...what?

While I certainly give much respect to those folks who are down to save their relationships and marriages, I would sooner pack my bags than subject myself to dragging my man downtown for a lie detector test. I'm not snooping through American Express and Verizon Wireless bills either. But sadly, what I took away from the today's show is that the woman still gets blamed when her husband cheats. Damn.

Although I've not taken the walk down the aisle, yet, I think I have to agree with the married-for-10-years audience member who blasted Oprah with, "You're being too nice and making too many excuses [for the men]. It's not about women not giving them something. You have to respect one another...you can't always give each other exactly what you need in a marriage, but it doesn't make it OK to go toward another woman."

Oh, and here are three of Neuman's tips to "affair-proof" your marriage:

- appreciate your spouse more
- have more frequent sex
- don't hang out with cheaters

Is it really that simple? And if so, why would Lady O be doing a two-parter?

what in the hell?

2008-09-15T18:32:00.000-07:00

Lehman Brothers.
Merrill Lynch.
Fannie Mae
AIG.
Freddie Mac.
Countrywide.
Bear Stearns.
Bank of America.
Washington Mutual?

Did I leave anybody out?

What's really going on? As I sit here watching ABC World News, I can barely believe what I'm hearing. Although my chips aren't stacked as high as, say, Oprah, it seems like stuffing my mattress might be a viable option soon.

Now, they're talking about the effects of Hurricane Ike and next up, is a segment about the train crash that killed 25 people and injured 138 out here in Cali last week. But wait, are folks trying to suggest that the engineer was texting beforehand?

This is all so much.

Is it just me, or do you hear Marvin singing in the background?

and then there were two.

2008-09-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

OK, so I'm heading out to do my morning Starbucks run to get my mind right for this deadline that's facing me and lo & behold, there are now two spiders who've taken up residence outside my front door.

I'm going to try to be a big girl and allow nature to do her thing, but really, this is a whole lot!

Happy Monday. Can you believe September is halfway over?

what I learned from a spider.

2008-09-14T19:03:00.001-07:00

Most times, I fancy myself a pretty, tough cookie. However, when I see an insect crawling in, or around, my space, I freeze, and then completely freak out.

Jill once sang -

I can kill the spider above my bed, although it's hard because I'm scared...

Those are lovely lyrics, yes, but whenever a spider crosses my path, I damn near want to call 911. It's not pretty.

As Dion keeps reminding me, "It's just that time of year," referring to the spider webs that have been erected all around my crib lately. They are everywhere - in the shrubs, across railings and much to my dismay, there's even one stationed about 8 feet from my front door. Literally.

OK, let me also say that I love and appreciate nature. Really, I do. But stepping out and seeing a huge, elaborate spider web as soon as I open my front door is quite jarring. In the last couple of weeks since this spider has decided to do her thing all up in my face, I've been stepping outside with extreme caution. There are a few brave souls that live next door (or maybe its the groundskeeper) who have removed the web and its owner. On those web-free, spider-gone days, I breathe a sigh of relief that I can walk to and from my place without having to inch by, in releve'. But that feeling lasts only but a day or so because my little creepy, crawly friend just keeps coming back, fully-armed, to start the whole exercise over again, in the same spot.

All that said, after I finally peeled myself off the couch this afternoon, I opened my door and noticed, once again, that the spider and most of her web were gone. "Yes, I'm free!," I thought. That was at 3:30pm. Fast-forward to 6:45pm when I dragged in my bags brimming with a new comforter, towels and washcloths (note: Linens n' Things is going out of business and basically giving stuff away!). As I turned to close the screen door behind me, I noticed that not only was she back, but she was also feverishly working to piece together her next creation, which she was attaching to the little piece of web that was left over from this morning.

I stopped in my tracks for a few minutes and just marveled at her. I mean, her spot has been annihilated almost daily and each time, she comes back to rebuild. And while I know that spinning a web is an innate talent for spiders, I just couldn't believe the speed and skill she used to get things back to the way she wanted them. I don't think I've felt that kind of love for a spider since I read Charlotte's Web as a kid...oh, but then again, I did cry like a baby when I saw the movie remake two years ago. Julia Roberts did a lovely job voicing Charlotte, but the tears really started coming when all of her baby spiders were like, "Hi, Wilbur, my name is..." I almost want to grab a tissue now.

God is truly amazing. That's what watching that spider reminded me of today. There are these little miracles that occur all around us, all day, everyday, and I, for one, am guilty of only looking at what's visible through the narrow sliver of my blinders. As I stood there, watching this simple, magical scene, I realized that, I, too, am capable of doing great things, every day, no matter who or what knocks me down - or how often. I think I owe that to myself. We all do.

I don't know what I'll find when I open my door tomorrow morning, but after what I saw tonight, I don't think I'll be so freaked out if I see her sitting in her web, waiting, and just, being. She's worked her little insect butt off to create her web and she deserves her space. And I shall leave her be.

you can reach me at (416)...

2008-09-12T13:02:00.000-07:00

I've said it once, I'll say it for the 20th time, I really do think I'm going to have to make a move to Canada.

I missed The View this morning (translation: I just wasn't all that invested in watching an interview with McCain and the Mrs., sorry), but look what I found on YouTube.

For the most part, the ladies let him have it, but things got a little bit touchy at some points, especially that tap-dance around pro vs. life and the Constitution. If you can sit through this, the second segment of John's interview, please take special note of what goes down at minute 6, 18 seconds. Um, Ms. Barbara, are you serious? It's like that...for real?

Where is my passport?

I know, I KNOW!

2008-09-08T07:25:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I got screamed on by a fellow blogger about my lapse in posting. I don't mean to let so many days go by without checking in, but it feels like there's just so much to say and I'm not sure where to start. Not to sound like an ingrate, but with e-mails and facebook and work (not necessarily in that order, of course!), sometimes I just can't seem to find the right words.

Oh, and one more excuse is that I've been traveling a bit and jet lag always makes me crazy and my focus, a little blurry. I promise that when I piece myself back together, I will get back on my blog game. Promise.

p.s. Surely, I'm one of the only people in the world who's just now catching Entourage fever, but after attending the premiere last week, I think I'm officially addicted. Actually, I think I just love Adrian Grenier, who I originally fell in love with after seeing his documentary, Shot in the Dark, about reuniting with his father. Plus, he's really kinda cute with the facial hair.

it's official, it's on.

2008-08-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

It seems that Bill & Hill (finally) got the memo, or at least they put up a good front during their speeches at the DNC.

But it's not about them right now. It's all about Barack.

My dearest, Brickson, is hosting an "Obama Acceptance Speech Viewing Party" in less than 24 hours. While it was certainly a surprise to see Barack on stage, briefly, tonight after Biden's speech, I can barely wait until he steps to the podium tomorrow night.

I know that we've all been watching and waiting and voting for his official Democratic nomination (and soon-to-come Presidency - what!), but it still feels rather surreal that we're actually here.

I am officially blown away.

p.s. Mr. Francis is doing much, much better. Thanks to you all for the thoughts and prayers...he thanks you, too.

prayer request.

2008-08-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

My friend just got back from a month in Africa with a "mild case of Malaria," he said. When I begrudgingly picked him up from LAX, I was like, "What the hell does that mean?" I remember thinking, "Is that like being 'a little bit pregnant?'" There is no such thing, in either case.

That was Monday. Today, he is in the hospital, drugged up and very weak.

They say he will be OK, but needless to say, I'm completely freaking out. All he asked for was vegetable soup and I believed him when he said that he just needed to rest and drink fluids. I think he believed that, too.

Please say a little prayer for Mr. Francis.

Thank you.

not quite sure what to say.

2008-08-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

Life.

Just life.

It's fleeting and frustrating and beautiful and stressful and confusing and enlightening. Most of all, it's short and unpredictable.

For some odd reason, I always seem to have a delayed reaction to sad news. Maybe it's a coping mechanism, maybe it's denial. As I sit here watching the tribute to Bernie Mac on Larry King Live, I think it's finally hitting home for me that a family has lost a husband, father, grandfather. His work will live on on DVD, of course, but the reality is that he's gone.

The same goes for Isaac Hayes. What a talent. What a trailblazer, a risk-taker. I was listening to Walk on By this afternoon and felt the same sense of sadness that I now feel for Bernie, days after their untimely deaths.

When you're a kid - a teenager, even - you think that 40 is old. Anybody older than that is basically ancient. As you mature and get to into the rhythm of your own life, you realize that 40 is just 39 + 1. Bernie was only 50. That ain't old. Neither is 65, like Isaac was. I guess the great thing about their lives is that they actualized their dreams and showed up & delivered, every single time.

Perhaps that's what this journey is really all about anyway.

I knew I was (dead ass!) wrong, but -

2008-08-05T23:50:00.000-07:00

OK, I must give a shout out to the universe for watching over me.

Here's the scenario...

Last night, I was headed to a screening not too far from the crib. As I was making my usual rounds to find a sexy parking spot, I eyed one across the street. For the record, I'm all about free street parking, after 6pm, so I thought I was in luck.

I'll admit that I'm not 100% opposed to quick, illegal maneuvers as long you're clear of pedestrians and other drivers. So, after taking a look around, I saw that I was good. Or so I thought.

As soon as I maneuvered my steering wheel to make my across-the-double line U-Turn (which actually turned into a cumbersome, 3-point situation), I saw the cop car. It was too late to turn back. For a second I thought I was safe because the cop behind the wheel didn't see me, but then I saw his partner turn his head, right in my direction.

Damn.

Damn.

Damn.

Yes, I was wrong - very wrong - and quite pissed at myself. Before I even heard the words, "You know that was an illegal U-Turn you made," I started pulling out my license, registration and insurance info, meanwhile calculating how much damage I'd done to the checking account - moving violation, traffic school, points on my license, higher Geico payments? [sigh] I was still doing the math when the officer checked my VIN info and tags...then he said, "You know that's $104 for making that turn in a business district, right? Be more careful." I think I said something to the effect of, "Really, officer? I'm so sorry about that," but I was totally in a daze. Let's just say that I didn't realize he'd let me off the hook until I saw him make an illegal U-Turn going in the opposite direction.

My record for moving violations is very slim, but I've never slid my way out of a ticket before. Never. Maybe the officer took pity on me because I looked like a deer in headlights or maybe he was feeling soft about the gas prices and the recession. Who knows? I'm not questioning his motives, but I definitely learned my lesson and promise to be on my best behavior.

Oh, and as an added bonus, I still got that parking spot!

damn, for real?

2008-08-01T11:55:00.000-07:00

Not to say that one has anything to do with the other, but I find it rather ironic that during the same week that oil companies cashed in $1,500 per second (!), a bunch of Cali folks are getting their salaries reduced to minimum wage...or losing their gigs all together. Talk about bringing the people to their knees!

What gives?

Clearly, it's not about having a Plan B anymore. It's about figuring out what C, D, E and F are so you can put food on the table and of course, contribute to said $1,500 profit...oops, I mean, pay for gas.

Happy Friday.

yo, you felt that?

2008-07-29T11:46:00.001-07:00

there was just an earthquake...a 5.4 they're saying. it originated in chino hills and was felt from vegas to san diego.

my hands are shaking a little bit. and a picture just fell off my shelf.

um...

whoopi, my new BFF (in my head)

2008-07-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

OK, you know how Wendy Williams always talks about her friends "in her head?" (My God, am I really quoting Wendy?) Well, if I could snap my fingers and have a new friend, Whoopi Goldberg would be at the top of my wish list. Then the writer in me thinks that she would give the most amazing, honest interview. I told my dear editor just the other day, "You know, I just wanna have lunch with her, just to talk."

Aside from the fact that she lays down the law on a daily over at The View (translation: she lets Elizabeth have it, which I live for!), did you know that she's won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony and two Golden Globes? And she's done all of that while playing by her own rules and not subscribing to the mainstream. Imagine that.

I can admit that when I was younger, a lot of what she did flew over my head and there were some things that I thought were rather inappropriate - that whole Friar's Club fiasco with Ted Danson comes to mind, but that's none of my business. Most recently, she'll star in Xanadu on Broadway, through September, and although she says that she won't be lacing up her roller skates, I still think that it's brave and crazy and kind of hysterical. It's all about taking chances and stepping (and staying) outside of the box, right? Oh, and she's got her morning radio show going on, too, which I really need to catch up on.

Really and truly, Whoopi has stood the test of time and what I love so much about her is her level head, open mind and the ability to accept life for what it is, for better or worse. I'm never mad. In fact, I'm trying to take a page from her book.

Yo, Whoop, when you get a minute, let's grab a bite.

the real meaning of today.

2008-07-23T16:29:00.001-07:00

On this day, 85 years ago, my grandmother was born.

I miss her, still. I wish I could take her out for dinner & a movie at Green Acres Mall like we used to, but I'm sure Uncle Eddie, Uncle Clarence, Uncle Russell and Aunt Ruby threw her a fabulous party today, with a lovely cake. Ms. Jeanette always had room for dessert.

Happy Birthday, Groggy.

how YOU doing?

2008-07-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

OK, Wendy is a hot, horrible, wiggy, fabulous mess, yet I cannot turn away. Have you been watching?

She just said during her "Hot Topics" (that's a huge, blatant bite from The View, no?) that Playboy offered her $200K - or was it more? she can't quite recall - to pose. This woman...what is the proper adjective to describe her? I'm at a loss for words.

I have a feeling that the show's "limited engagement" will run way past August 22.

in a nutshell.

2008-07-22T17:02:00.001-07:00

Why do people think it's cool to leave you in a holding pattern? It's wack. I am over it.

guess who's b-zack?

2008-07-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

The blog police would certainly be within their rights to question and cuff me. I’ve fallen off my game. Guilty as charged.

When life gets hectic, it seems that my dedication to the keypad wanes simultaneously. For the record, I feel hella guilty, which then makes the words even harder to come by. It’s a vicious cycle, I know, but as Pema Chödrön says, Start Where You Are. What an a-mazing concept.

It’s been quite a busy few weeks and I think I’ve finally caught up on my sleep. For starters, me and Val made a stop in New Orleans for the Essence Music Festival and did plenty of good eating along the way. After scarfing down that shrimp po’boy that I bought on the corner of Poydras and Loyola – literally, on the corner – we headed to Emeril’s with my high school chum, Kim Bishop (pictured to the left, with Val), who was also visiting the Big Easy for the weekend. Oh, and in case you were wondering, he was two years ahead of me at Paint Branch, which means that he’s still way older!

sidebar: I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that as we were heading out of the restaurant, Boris Kodjoe strolled in. Even from the back, he is a beautiful specimen of a man. As much as I pride myself in not being the jealous-type, I’d happily switch places with Nicole Ari Parker any day, even for a few hours…

OK, back to reality.

As far as the festival goes, I’d say that Jill Scott and Chris Rock topped my list. I’ve seen Jill maybe two dozen times (seriously) and I’m always amped when she steps to the mic. This go ‘round, she ended her set with this a question, over music, of course – “Do you understand...what you feel inside?” That question, that rhythm, has been playing in my head, over and over, ever since. Jill, if you're listening, I’ve been trying to be still and stay quiet so that I can really comprehend what's going on with, and around, me. Life is so simple, yet so complicated, but maybe all we have to do is listen to our own voice, the one that says that everything will be OK.

Chris takes no prisoners, ever, and I’m still laughing out loud about his comment on 72-year-old John McCain’s bid for the White House – “How can you make plans for the future when you ain’t gonna to be here?” Um, he kind of has a point, no? I’ll admit that I wasn’t entirely mad at Morris Day either. Who knew that The Time had so many hits? I mean, Gigolos Get Lonely, Too? Forgot about that one. Chris Brown sang and danced the night fantastic as if he was at a basement party. Like, really, how much energy does he have? I love that kid. He makes me miss being 20. Mary J. got tons of love and gave the crowd exactly what they wanted – damn near every song she recorded from ’92 – ’98. Patti Labelle also did her thing and hosted her own tribute, bringing Angie Stone, Ledisi and Chrisette Michelle to the stage before Sarah Dash and a barely-dressed, but fierce, Nona Hendryx stepped up to sing her praises. And of course, Val wore white in honor of Frankie Beverly, who closed out the festival on Sunday night. Good times were had, but needless to say, I was exhausted. Jetlag can be such a buzzkill.

After four days in the (504), I took a quick jaunt to the East, where I met up with Val, yet again, for her reunion at Ajax Park. After meeting some of her friends from years passed, who fawned over her and shared stories about their junior high school days at Shimer, I think it hit home that Val is, indeed, a rock star - check out her latest endeavor - 1day1ride1cause. It’s funny when you really realize that your mother had a life before you got here, which is an inconceivable concept when you’re a kid. Since retiring last year, Val seems to have had a rebirth and is doing big things and enjoying herself beyond even her wildest dreams. Who could be mad?

So, having endured a dizzying couple of weeks and battling some stifling writer's block, I am back home and happy to be sleeping in my own bed. What a joy. Oh, and let me be the first to say that I am determined to unpack before the weekend is over. First, I think I’m going to go for a bike ride along the coast in the morning, stop by the farmer’s market (am thrilled, though skeptical, about the FDA’s recent OK to eat tomatoes) and maybe check out Batman, if I don’t have to sell my soul to get a ticket. Shall see how the morning unfolds. The last time I left my suitcase in the middle of the living room, I tripped over it in the middle of the night. Just the thought of almost falling flat on my face, in the dark, makes me want to get up and start folding and hanging right now.

Happy Sunday.

red or blue?

2008-06-21T12:57:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure which one I should take today.

I wonder what would happen if I took them both to the head and chased them with a Snapple.

But wait, didn't Jay-Z say there was a green one, too?

"breaking news"

2008-06-13T23:10:00.000-07:00

I dug Tim Russert and like so many other people, was really shocked to hear the news of his untimely passing. 58? Wow.

Oddly enough, I was tuned into CNN watching the coverage of the R. Kelly trial debacle (I mean, what the hell?) when in came a breaking news story. With local news in LA, "breaking news" is usually something like a car chase or some celeb-driven nonsense, but when the folks behind the CNN news desk say that something's up, I know it's not a game.

It's almost surreal when those who deliver the news actually become the news. Aside from feeling sad for Tim's family, yet also a bit happy that he got to see his kid graduate from college, I thought it rather interesting that he didn't live to see who'll make it to the White House. He so thrived on politics...who knows, perhaps he'll be watching the polls from wherever he is.

Here's hoping he had a safe journey.

nostalgia TV

2008-06-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

So, my dearest, Scott Caudill, was in town last week, with tickets to the TVLand Awards in tow. I love me some nostalgia TV, hence this event is high up on my annual "must-attend" list. Yor-el and I even took a post red-carpet photo for the archives.

Vanessa Williams hosted, Lionel Richie performed and the casts of Golden Girls and Roseanne took home statues along with Garry Marshall (what an a-mazing career!), Mike Myers and Jonathan Winters. Oh, and the show opened with some familiar faces from TV's past (think Horseshack, JJ and Arnold Drumming) swooping in from up above, a la The Flying Nun. Hysterical, cheesey fun...I loved every minute of it.

I'd be guilty of withholding valuable information if I didn't fess up to wanting to swipe that fabulous floral centerpiece from our table. Val raised me better than that, but if that vat of beautiful roses hadn't weighed a ton, I would have surely been holding it in this picture, trust!

Happy Monday.

OK, enough about me...

2008-06-03T17:37:00.001-07:00

what about Obama?!

While I've been living in my own little, land of self-celebration (see previous post!), as I type this e-mail, Barack Obama is just 4 delegate votes away from nabbing the Democratic candidate spot.

Although I really hoped (and voted) that he would make the cut, I just can't believe that this is actually happening. It's kind of wild to watch history unfold right before your eyes.

My mind is officially blown.

Can't wait for the night's speeches.

run (don't walk) to the newsstand!

2008-05-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

OK, I must say that when I saw how fabulous the June issue of Essence turned out, I was kind of speechless. I still am.

For the record, yours truly nabbed the cover story (along with a salute to celebrity dads and a little fashion feature with Tia Mowry) but really, the process of getting it all done nearly drove me to a very, tall glass of vodka - no juice, just ice. And I don't even drink like that.

After a bunch of frantic phone calls and e-mails with publicists, a few all-night transcribing sessions and about five missed deadlines (it wasn't all my fault, really it wasn't), I realize, yet again, that you've got to put in the work if you want to yield something beautiful. Did I mention that the cover story photos are breathtaking? Big up to Cliff Watts, all day!

The issue is on the newsstand now and I'd be so thrilled if you'd go pick up a copy...or maybe, all three!

Val & me.

2008-05-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

Mom Dukes came out to (un) sunny Cali to visit for Mother's Day (click the image to the left, ours is the 2nd photo, toward the bottom). As I type this note (it's actually Monday afternoon), she is getting scrubbed and buffed at the Korean Day Spa. I assume that she'll be floating out into the lobby in about 30 minutes.

Although the sun came out like for a half-hour, total, during her trip, I think she's had a swinging, good time. The highlight was a Saturday night visit from some of her West Coast-transplanted-Jamaica-New York cronies who came over for a little wine and her now-signature salmon orzo salad. Mind you, while my girl, Rio, stopped by with her son, Myles (who sports a killer, toddler 'fro), Val hosted a semi-full house. I just love that her social life booms waaaay louder than mine.

After a vegan brunch with Yor-el, me & Val did dinner at Chaya Venice last night. Tonight, we're going straight Cuban at Versailles in Hermosa Beach. Oh, and we've got to load up her snazzy, new MP-3 player, which came in a swag bag I received last week. The first thing she said when we opened the box was, "I can't believe I have an MP-3 player!" Dare I mention that she was listening to a disc-man, which is just sooooo 1988!

She's heading back east on Tuesday morning. Something tells me that I'll be feeling misty at the airport.