Mediocrity Just Left the Building

Believe me when I say.....this has been the most emotional day of my life! I am proud to be an American and proud to be an African-American.

He is our President, she is our First Lady, and they are our First Family.

This is the end of mediocrity and the beginning of excellence!

Get ready to be great!

The Maven

Happy Anniversary, Love Birds!

Although it is seldom mentioned in the mainstream, the obvious love, admiration and respect shared between these two is very refreshing. While "Black love is beautiful" may seem cliche, the reality is, we cannot survive as a race of people without it. Furthermore, the entire human race will not survive without love.

Personally, the bond that The Obama's share gives me comfort and more confidence in a productive Obama presidency. When I see them together, its like I hear India.Arie singing, "boy, where are your people from......"

Without question, a loving, strong and balanced home life, reflects in our professional and social lives. There is great candor, I believe, to the phrase "behind every great man, there is a great woman" and in this case, nothing could be more true.

What do you think?

Food For Thought

Pastor Jamal Bryant puts it down.

Hump Day - Obama Hustle

I love this video for several reasons.....mainly because my people are so fun-loving, and also, it takes place at a lounge and that is so "Midwest", and I aspire to be a Lounge Lizard.

People love line dances, and I can't quite say why, but quietly, I dig them too.

I'm going to learn this one and pass it on. Everyone will be groovin' this come November 5th!

Obama '08

The Maven

Michelle, My Belle

Since I was a little girl, I've always been engaged by and excited for "our" moments to shine. Black folks being on TV was once a really big deal.

While some things may never alter, and the "struggle" may take much longer to end, my people have come a long way and hurdled some difficult obstacles. Our bar is always being raised and last night was no exception.

Watching Michelle Obama last night, present herself and her family to the world, brought chills to my spine and tears to my eyes (of course). These are moments that I never imagined I'd see. Witnessing the landslide election of a Black mayor in Chicago (R.I.P. Harold Washington) was one thing, but this right here.......there are no words!

Seeing this regal, beautiful, and smashingly intelligent woman, a Black woman, stand before that crowd and affirm her humanness, her pride, motherhood, and the love she has for her MAN, was obviously overdue, and right on time.

Women tend to take issue with one another for various ridiculous reasons, in addition to the sexism we face daily, but in that crowd, there were many misty and teary eyes, because Michelle touched the core of family and womanhood. I wish we could connect more on those most basic levels. The world would be a calmer place.

I'm not going to speak for all of my folks, because we are not a monolith. But, last night was a proud and unforgettable moment for me. It would have been better, only if I were there in person.

The Obama's are my First Family. Put that in your hater pipe and smoke it.

Maven

Grow Out Blow Out - Three

Wednesday, the braids came down. Thursday I got a "press 'n curl", for the sole purpose of getting my ends trimmed.

While this growing process is taking awhile, I am rather enjoying the exercise in patience. They say its a virtue, you know.

I am quite pleased with the progress, but I must tell you, I am not a hair person, which is why my short and sexy haircut worked for me. I'm the broad that needs to stay in the salon chair on a very regular basis. For example, Friday, I woke up, unwrapped the hair, and looked like I was wearing a football helmet. I followed instructions. I even slept with the ceiling fan on full blast, so I wouldn't sweat it out. But noooooooo, I still woke up looking like I stuck my finger in a socket. So, Friday, I rocked a ponytail. Go figure.

Yesterday, I succumbed to the shampoo and conditioner, and brought out the trusty Miss Jes.sie's Curly Pud.ding, and did a double strand twist. I love the feel of my natural hair (I'm sure I've said that before) and I will rock my 'fro for a week or two, then head back to the C-O-M-P-T-O-N, to get my braids "re-did".

The Grow Out continues. When will I stop? December '09.

Just in time for the Big 4-0!

Yeah.....that sounds like a plan.

Maven

Stormy Monday

I don't know what to say.......

Peace.

Sweet Dreams, Uncle Bernie

I woke up yesterday morning to a text from my girl back home, informing me of Bernie Mac's passing. I immediately jumped online to read the details and a sadness covered me like a blanket.

Bernie Mac was/is a Chicago legend. He epitomizes the Chi Town Hustle and will live on as a shining example of how to pursue and attain your dreams while taking no prisoners.

Arguably one of the most funny comedians of our time, Mr. Mac defied the odds of stardom and "making it" in Hollywood. He didn't have a Tinseltown pedigree and didn't come from a wealthy family, but he had heart, desire and loads of talent.

I remember once, back in the day, my girl JCC, the mouth of the Southside, who had aspirations of becoming a stand up comedienne, signed herself up for amateur night at The Cotton Club in the South Loop. Mr. Mac was the MC/Host that night and I don't recall word for word what he said to her when she finished (even though her routine was a hilarious mess), but I can say for sure that he wasn't harsh with his words and he didn't seek to embarrass her. That wasn't his style.

Last year, I had the honor of speaking to Mr. Mac via phone, regarding a charitable event that I was managing. The host wanted him to participate, and I had the honor of calling to ask if he could attend. While his schedule would not permit, he was humble, regretful and gracious in his response and I will never forget that moment. Dealing with celebrities is not always a pleasant experience, but Mr. Mac was a class act.

Its a known fact that at times he felt slighted in his opportunities, and he rarely missed a chance to let you know that he wasn't scared (you know the quote), but I would want him to know that he was always a star at "the crib" and in our community, and we weren't scared of him! He was and always will be truly loved. Uncle Bernie will be sorely missed!

I will be checking for his upcoming movies, and I'll continue to watch The Bernie Mac Show re-runs. I gotta get a copy of The Kings of Comedy too! He was brilliant!

"WHO YOU WIT?"


The Maven

I See You Jayceon

There is a certain LA boy swagger that you just might not understand unless you live here. This video gives you a taste.



Yummy, right?

(Trav and X, I see you too!)

G, you BLESSED us with this one! Between you and Nasir, I feel rejuved about the Hop.

Get Better, Baby

In case you didn't know, within the pecking order of male dominated sports, football, for me, is tops. Basketball tightly closes in at second, and that beautiful, peaceful and relaxing game of baseball pulls up the rear.

With The Football League commencing its player-dreaded camps this week, some things stood out in my mind.

1) Young Chad is gonna be happy that he stayed in The Natti. I have a feeling that this is their year. Raymond James Stadium or BUST.

2) Damn, if J.ason Taylor doesn't look good in that Skins uni.

3) Donnie Mac is back! That NFC East is gonna be a beast!

4) Hurry up and get better. Antoni.o "The Smile" Gates is going to finally be back in action from that horrible turf toe injury, to be available for my Fantasy team, and also, to make my day when the corners of his mouth rise to display those amazing pearly whites!

In case you didn't know......put your damn shades on, its gonna get bright!

God Bless America!

The Wrap Up

I owe you an apology. Perhaps I had you all anticipatory and excited to hear of my daily exploits in The Chi, yet I let you down. I didn't post after that first day, and again, I apologize but............. I WAS KICKIN' IT!!!!!!!

Lawd, Today! What a trip. IF you have never been to Chicago during the Fourth of July, you are missing out on an incredible Black experience.

The weather was beautiful, that Chicago summer air, especially at night, is intoxicating. Yes, its muggy and sticky at times, but its still love.

Because so many days have passed, my account of festivities and happenings will be abbreviated for times sake. I realize you don't come here to red a novel.

Day two, Friday, after hanging with Pops, I went to visit The Lady, albeit briefly, because she had to go "make the donuts". Then I went to visit my best friend, The Good Doctor, in her new diggs, to check it out. I am very proud of her accomplishments as of late and she and the little lady Capricorn aka "the future MD", love their house, so I love it too! Later that night, I went steppin' in CC Hills at Sweet Geogia [sic] Browns, a South Suburban lounge. I got a chance to dance with one of my long time friends and he was quite impressed with my progress, besides, he is a really good stepper, so i felt good holding my own. My girls (The Good Doc, Stella, Prof. Woo) and I laughed and drank and took pics, and I danced as much as my feet could stand. By the end of the night, my dogs were yelping from pain. Clearly, I'd worn the wrong shoes, but I was cute! I ended that night with a White Castle burger (a late night staple in The Chi), and it tasted delicious, but one was enough for various reasons (smile).

On Saturday, I hooked up with one of my oldest friends, Ms. ILM, and we scooped my girl Ms. Sophisticate (in from DC) and headed to the Old Skool Picnic. Chicago's OSP is not for the faint of heart. It is an ALL day affair full of grilling, drinking, socializing, reminiscing, and of course - Chicago House Music! For my generation, it is one of the most anticipated events of the summer. People bring their spouses and children, set up tents, and lay out blankets, for what ends up being a wonderful reunion and a humongous party. It is an incredible sight to see. I saw friends from grammar school, high school, college, and old jobs. I saw the twins that used to braid my hair.... what's up Doublestitch! I saw some of my homies (wassup Scilla), long lost friends, former enemies, ex-boyfriends, Squirrels and dips, (both mine and my girls). I even saw other LA transplants back in the saddle....wassup Coodie! I had a ball and it was just great to be amongst my own without incident or problem. That night, my crew was talking about keeping the party going at some aftersets, but my ass was tired and I had to haul it all the way back to the woods to Pops' house. That is a LONG drive.

Sunday was lovely. It was family day! I had breakfast with Papa, The Lady, Auntie Day Day and my cousin L. After eating, we went to catch a flick, and saw that new Big Willie movie. It was entertaining, and I enjoyed it for the most part, but it gave me a King K vibe at the end, and I always have issue when any brotha in a movie, sacrifices himself or his life to save Miss Ann. I'll leave it at that. After the movie, The Lady and I went to church and it was sooooo good to be in the TUCC sanctuary. I love that church! I reconnected with a member that I used to mentor alongside, I saw my boy who plays drums for the choir, and saw one of my grammar school teachers, Ms. Tripplett. She was still as fly as ever!

After church, I went to scoop my girl Mama So, and headed North to have tapas with The Ghandi's, MoMo and the CEO. It turned out to be quite eventful due to the topics of conversation, but all in all, we had a good time. Once again, I had to trek back to the woods....ooh wee, that's a drive, but it must not have worn on me too bad, becuz, I stopped by Stella's crib to see her beautiful chillun'. Please note though, that she too lives in the woods so I was close to home.

Monday and Tuesday I TRIED to slow it down. Monday, The Lady and I went downtown and afterwards we hit up the Harold's on 87th Street so I could have my fix, a Gizzard and Wing combo, mild and hot sauce, with salt and pepper. Hood Scrumptious! I then went to visit Grandad and Emo. No sign of the little brother though; he was in the streets. Later that night, I went to have a drink with MoMo. She and I went to Parc 52, our friend MBB's spot in The HP. We sat at the bar and had great girl talk. Girl talk is excellent sometimes, like when there is no game on! LOL! Once again, back to the woods for a good nights rest. But not before I stopped by a lounge where my girl Stella was hanging for a colleague's birthday celebration. One thing about The Chi, the lounges are poppin', and I aspire to be a Lounge Lizard, or Lounge Beyotch (as I like to say), so any time spent inside one is time well spent, in my book.

Tuesday, I had breakfast with The Mouth of the Southside (she knows who she is), and then headed into the city to the old neighborhood (London Towne) for a visit with my second Mom, T Maxx. Next I headed to The Lady's crib again for one last visit, and my cousin, Pretty Black, brought her boys by. They are so cute! To end the day, I went to Papa's house and we ordered pizza, drank brew, read the paper, and watched that (B)ubba, (E)d and (T)ed reality show about those LA kids in the Hills. Lights out.

Wednesday, my final day, I basically hung out with Papa. We went to run some errands, ate breakfast, and stopped by Mama So's parents house to see her and her boys. I had not seen those boys in about two years and they just amaze me; they are so nice and are growing by leaps and bounds. It was good to see her Mom and Dad too!

I took a shuttle from the burbs to O'Hare and my Papa's quest to get me there on time was like being in Talladega Nights or something because he was driving like a cannonball on fire.

I am back in LaLa now, completely and utterly exhausted and a little sad, because I'm coming down off my amazing home "high". Its like I'm living Stevie W's "Rocket Love".

In the midst of this whirlwind, I missed a few B Days. Happy Born Day to JM, Moose, EY, and JC! Please forgive and charge it to the game!

I'll catch y'all in a day or two. Promise. A Squirrel's gotta get her bearings.

The Maven

Green Day

This is about golf. I don't know how to play, but after spending my work-related day at a lovely course in Malibu the other day, I am convinced that I must learn. First off, this is Southern Cali, so the weather is usually "boss".

It was an absolutely beautiful day, the tournament was charity driven and the participants were all accomplished and very pleasant urban professionals. One of the best elements of the day for me was the peacefulness. Ladies, if you're trippin' about the hours upon hours that your Squirrel spends on the links - just STOP. I completely understand why he's out there.....its relaxing and serene and he gets to chill with his boys, drink brew, compete and talk BIG shtt for an ENTIRE day. Trust me on this, for a man, this is major. They love us, but a day without "lip" or "mouth" is priceless.

I can speak on this because, although its a mans world, I can navigate it. I don't intrude, I blend in. Chameleon style. So perhaps you can join me for those lessons and get your weight up too. Plenty of our female counterparts already know this (shouts to my BFF, Dr. Dill) and they are playing and playing well. Plus, the networking, socially and professionally, is priceless.

Now, I will sit up and watch T Woods, but I have never been a golf "fan". I'm just convinced that all that beauty and quiet I felt whilst driving my cart around the course all day, has to be good for my mind, soul and spirit.

Be good,

The Maven

Eric Roberson's Freestyle for Obama

Funky!

In Honor of Papa

Today is Father's Day. By the grace of God, I happen to have the coolest Cat Daddy on EARTH, for a father. Unfortunately, we are not able to spend the day together, as I am home in Cali and he is in Florida for a work-related conference.

In honor of my Papa, I am enjoying his favorite work of art - Jazz music. He is especially fond of John Coltrane, thus my very own affinity for all things "Trane". As I am writing now, Sonny Rollins and Thelonious Monk are playing "I Want To Be Happy"; so apropos.

My Dad and I represent the epitome of a father-daughter relationship. Our initials are the same, with my first name being a derivative of his, and my middle name is that of the daughter of a well known jazz musician. Papa is by all accounts, my first love, most certainly one of my best friends and definitely along with The Lady, my staunchest supporter.

I could not imagine what type of woman I would be, were it not for his guidance, love and lessons. Papa is a Virgo, and if you know Virgo's then you're aware of how determined and direct they can be. Papa is King of the lecture (he once lectured one of my boyfriend's on our front step about bringing me home after curfew). I've been getting lectured for as long as I can remember, and although I sometimes tire of them, I appreciate them nonetheless, especially since they are highlighted by his distinct, silky smooth dialect. The Lady (Mom) laughs at me because no one is better at imitating him than I. I can never repeat something he has said without using "the voice", it wouldn't have the same effect. For those of you that know Papa, now is your time chuckle.

When I was a little girl, we were attached at the hip. We used to share lots of laughs and junk food (i.e. Twinkies and Suzy Q's). One of my fondest memories is riding in the car with him, listening to, you guessed it.....JAZZ!
We would take a ride to River Oaks (a mall) or spin on Lake Shore Drive, windows down, music blaring with sweet, warm Chicago breezes kissing our faces. On the weekends, when I might sleep in, I would awake to the sound of Papa's music outside because he played it while washing his car. When I got to H.S., I would often stop by his downtown office on my way home, and hear him fuss for "coming up on my jooobbbb"! Secretly, I know he was happy to see me! Sometimes, we would ride the train home or if he had driven, we might stop by Granny Helen's house on the way to the crib, to say hello.

Papa is set to retire this fall and I know he is a bit anxious. He speaks about moving to California, but only time will tell. I want to let him know that I am so proud to have him as my Dad and I am so grateful for all the sacrifices he made along with The Lady, in order for me to have an amazing childhood. Thank you, for continuing to be there for me, even now. You always offer encouragement and wise words. I also want to take this time to apologize for blowing your hard earned cash while away at college. My bad (Smiles).

With Love,

The Maven

Hump Day Music - Ride With Obama

Blissful. That's how the moment felt for me. To hear Barack declare himself the Democratic nominee was bittersweet. To see he and Michelle standing strong together......there are no words. I am SO very proud!

Now, the real journey begins. If ever the Obama's needed our support, they really do now. I implore you to pray with conviction, encourage others to involve themselves in this historic political process, stand tall, donate to the campaign, and take all of this VERY seriously. You have witnessed history! Black History! American History!Be proud and express to your children, your relatives and friends, the importance and relevance of this time, just as our parents did for us in terms of The Civil Rights Movement, Malcolm, Martin, Shirley Chisholm, The Kennedy's, Jackie Robinson, Joe Louis, Jesse Jackson, Motown, etc......

Hold It Down for Wifey 101

What I really wanted him to say was........"back up off my broad before I bust that ass". This will do, though. (Smiles)

Grow Out Blow Out: Part Deux

Baby, its a heatwave! The weather here in LA has been delightfully scorching, if that makes sense. It's only mid-May, so I'm a bit concerned as to what the summer will hold, but what can a Squirrel Woman do?

One thing I can do is braid this bird's nest back up! LOL! That's right y'all, I am still in the process of growing my hair out. Almost two weeks ago, I took my braids down, and I must say, I am happy with the progress. I've been washing and conditioning my naturalness, and the 'fro is beautiful for a day or two, then it starts to look all "woe is me".

I've held out long enough, especially considering the heat. I don't want to spend my time, indoors, tending my "crop", when I could be out having an afternoon cocktail and a delectable appetizer.

Granted, I don't mind looking like Jesus' sister, all woolen and bronze, but I've got to remedy this, so..........after I catch this Celtics-Cavs Game 7, I'm headed to the braid chair at 3 o'clock. Compton, here I come!

I'll holla at you Squirrels later.

The Maven

Hump Day Music - Steveland Morris Edition

Stevie Wonder was born May 13, 1950, one week after my momma. I was raised on Stevie. His vinyl was a mainstay in our household and I spent many hours in the basement listening to him, not always understanding what he was saying, but feeling something deep and meaningful nonetheless.

During the holidays, I used to play his Christmas album religiously. I was a lonely teardrop (only child) so the song "One Little Christmas Tree" was my jam. Choked me up every time. :)

When I was in grammar school, eighth grade to be exact, I distinctly remember listening to Journey through the Secret Life of Plants. The song "Black Orchid" haunted me in such a way that I used to play it over and over, crying, because it reassured me that black was amazingly beautiful, special and kind. I imagined that my entire graduating class sang it together at our commencement ceremony (yes, I'm a cornball). To this day, I zone sometimes zone out to Stevie just to clear my head. I could listen to him for days.

The timeless classic album, Songs in the Key of Life STAYS on my Ipod, and through the years, I've collected just about all of his offerings. The beauty of Stevie Wonder is somewhat indescribable. How do you define a man who has contributed and dedicated so much love to his craft? Have you ever checked his resume? It's one thing for him to create crown jewels for himself, but he has laced some of our favorite classic artists with unforgettable hits. He co-wrote or wrote "Tears of a Clown" with Smokey Robinson, "Perfect Angel" for Minnie Riperton, "Tell Me Something Good" for Rufus and Chaka Khan , "I Can't Help It" for Michael Jackson, and produced "Try Jah Love" for Third World (just to name a few). He loved Syreeta Wright so much that he did an entire album for her, titled Stevie Wonder presents Syreeta Wright! Any Stevie purist should own it. You would be amazed at the number of songs we love and cherish that were touched by the genius of this man.

People who know me really well, understand and share my appreciation for Stevie's music. I didn't dig in the crates too deeply, but in honor of his birthday, I share with you some of my favorites. Indulge.......



Ummmmmmm.....I may have gotten a little carried away, but you understand! LOL!!!!

In Honor of The Lady

There is a scene in the movie The Joy Luck Club, where the main character, June, tells a story to a little girl about a feather and a mother's good intentions. The story speaks to the core of a mother's love for her child. I've seen this movie countless times, and each time I watch it this scene sticks out as one that touches me deeply. Although I've yet to cross the threshold of motherhood, I am certain that when God's blessing pours upon me in that way, I will be more than ready. I say this so boldly because I have the greatest mother in the world, a shining example of womanhood and humanity.

I call her Ladyjane and here on the blog, I always refer to her as "The Lady". My mother and I have become great friends over the years, which is one of the greatest points in a mother-daughter relationship. She celebrates my victories, gives me a shoulder to cry on when I'm hurt, shares in my secrets, and laughs along with me when I'm in a silly mood. She taught me to accept and love myself in spite of what others had to say. You see, I used to catch the blues as a child. I was a late bloomer in every sense of the phrase. The Lady made sure I knew that it was okay to look like Olive Oyl, have nappy hair, and brown skin.

I want to thank her for her many sacrifices throughout the years. As I become older, I understand the magnitude of those sacrifices more and more. My parents married at a young age, and my mom gave birth to me at a young age. I realize that all the things she allowed and encouraged me to do as I was growing up, are perhaps things she didn't get to experience because I was hanging off her ta ta's. She afforded me dance lessons, AWANA Club, summer camps, road trips, enhanced educational experiences and tools, braces, my first car.....I could go on, but you get the point.

Our mother's want nothing but the best for us, but most of all, I believe, they want us to avoid their pitfalls, mistakes, heartaches, and disappointments. They often wish they could take our places, to shield us from life's harshness. Over the years they fed us, clothed us, disciplined us, educated us, and loved our dirty "draws", all in the hopes that we'd turn out to be respectable and productive.

I'd like to let The Lady know that she prepared me well, I'm proud that she is my mom and I do my best not to embarrass her when I'm out in the streets!

Happy Mother's Day, girl!

The Maven

Mary Jay

Just came home from a great concert. The Heart of The City Tour to be exact. Yes, that's right, Mary and Jay, a sixty degree L.A. night, The Hollywood Bowl, and box seats. Ridiculous!

The Maven



I've seen Jay countless times (terms of endearment for my connect), but this is the first time I've seen Mary perform and The Queen of hip Hop Soul did NOT disappoint.

Let me holla at the ladies for a minute.......I don't know about you, but I feel like Mary and I grew up together; not in a same 'hood, 'round the corner kind of way, but in a Kool Aid to Cognac kind of way. When she hit the airwaves, I was running the streets with my girls, going to parties, and kissin' and tellin'. Mary's songs represent every stage of my life, and it is clear that she has weathered her storms and become a G-A-Dub (Grown Ass Woman). She looked flawless. The hair was laid (of course), the 'drobe was fly, and homegirl is in great shape. Now, I am a true slim goody, but Mary makes me wanna adopt a regular fitness regimen. She ain't playin'! She ran through some old faves and then hit us with an ode to Anita Baker by scatting to "Been So Long". I loved it! She then took it home with her newer hits (she had me in tears with "Be With You") and danced and kicked it like we were at a party in her back yard. Gotta love her.

Once Jay came on, he rolled along seamlessly through his catalog, with the highlights being his stint at the turntable with his DJ, where they played snippets from about 10 songs, each one making the crowd go crazy, the other highlight was his a capella performance of "Minority Report" while photos of the disaster displayed in the background; the events surrounding Hurricane Katrina will never be forgotten and the response by our government will never be forgiven.
Each time I see Jigga perform, I am reminded just how incredible his swagger is and how solid his offerings have been over the years. The man has HITS!

The show ended with fireworks and the last of three duets performed throughout, with the fitting "Heart Of The City (Ain't No Love)".

This was the best Hump Day I've had in a long time. I just might hit the show up again on Friday.