A Monday Mind

It's been difficult for me to get back to the blog. It seems that people are still reading though because someone anonymously left a critical message the other day. Can't please everyone. If you're still reading, thank you for your patience and loyalty!

I am homesick. Dear Chicago, I'll be there as soon as possible, lets say Thanksgiving.

I'm settling into a new job. So far, so good. It's a new challenge and for that, I am grateful.

Football season is upon us! You know this is my favorite time of year. I've been playing fantasy football for eight years with my homeboys, but this just may be the first year I skip our league. I've agreed to play in a free league though. I draft on Sunday.

M.ichael V.ick is back, and D.onovan Mc.Nabb is still my hero. His gesture is a prime example of how black love is way deeper than the mainstream understands.

I want a beautifully landscaped backyard just like the one Kenya McQueen has in the movie Something New.

2009 is flying by, but is has proven to be so much better than my '08.

Vodka Gimlets are my new sip of choice.

I'm still on my "grow out, blow out"; wearing braids at this moment, and I've yet to reach my desired length, but I'm sticking to it. I have my days when I think that a fresh ball player's cut will do just fine, but I always talk myself out of it. I'll post a picture soon.

Speaking of plans, a P.R. certificate is on my roll call, classes begin Sept. 21st, asking for all prayers. Also, have to complete what I started with my R.E. license, pray for me on that too, please. :)

Health care for everyone. Seems like such a sensible concept. Yet, there is so much opposition, people are afraid to share, as if sharing means losing. It's shameful. I am for universal health care. The best way to achieve this? I am not sure. All I know is that I've been on both sides of the coin and while I'm blessed to be amongst the insured right now, I can tell you that sitting in a county hospital's emergency room for basic care is no walk in the park. It sucks, and no one deserves that.

I've been listening to Angela Winbush. Her voice is what's moving me these days.

I need to take my lunch everyday this week. Saves time and money.

I have not been steppin' in a very long time. My fave dance partner reached out to me the other day. If anyone can get me back on the floor, he can.

Yes, I'm still in love with our President and the lovely First Lady.

May God bless us all.

Maven

A Monday Mind

I think I have writer's block. That's what I get for thinking.

I think that Bo, the Obama's new puppy is just as cute as can be, and if I were allowed pets, I would have a cute dog too.

Its almost time for the NB.A playoffs and I am very excited. I just don't want to see any games that mirror that performance by the Ce.ltics yesterday. What was that?

Red Velvet cake is comforting.

I need to purchase a new operating system for my desktop and, dammit, I just don't want to!

I want a pair of L.A.M.B.'s in my closet when I awake tomorrow.

The hair will be braided on Wednesday. It's time.

Its also time to get rid of this lil' gut I've acquired. (See Red Velvet cake)

My garden is shaping up nicely and the flowers are blooming beautifully. This is something I am very proud of.

I love, love, love my jersey sheets.

I have a noisy neighbor, what do you think I should do? She is about 21 or 22, and I remember those days, so I try to be cool, but DAMN, she is pushing it!

I need some J. California Cooper in my life. Its time to crack open one of her books.

I was gonna buy a S.nuggie today, but once I tried it out...... eh. Not so much.

Are you happy? Content? Pleased? Overjoyed? Lovin' and livin' well? If so, isn't it a blessing? I feel extremely blessed.

I am anticipating C.hrisette's new music, May 5th, also The Lady's birthday!

When are my White Sox coming to town??? I need to check the schedule.

Happy Monday!

-Maven

A Monday Mind

Less than ten days, less than ten days, less than ten days............ VOTE!

This may be the largest voter turnout, ever, in the U.S.!

The reality of an O.bama presidency is becoming more and more real and I am beginning to feel many things, like, excitement, nervousness, anticipation, pride, restlessness, joy, weariness, and sadness that loved ones who are no longer with me, didn't live to experience this milestone in history.

Did I tell you that someone hit my living room window, with my O.bama sign as the obvious target? HATERS!

Does Mc.Cain cry himself to sleep at night? Is P.alin plotting for world domination? Is E.lizabethH.asselbeck her co-conspirator? Just how much MORE wealth did G.W. accrue over these past eight years? How many more Red Party's are going to come out in support of "That One", really?

The bailout was B.S.

The J. Hud tragedy has me shook. The Crib is no joke sometimes.

Its time for me to go back to braids. I'm over the fro'. I say this lovingly.

The 30th anniversary of The Wiz was this past week. I love that movie, and its subliminal messages. Q and them were on one when they filmed it. LOL!

Los Angeles weather has been superb.

Kindred has a new release. Gotta get it. Love them.

My mom loves Link TV (check your local listings) and I haven't revealed this to her, but I have grown to dig it too! Knowledge truly is power. This channel is chock full of educational goodness.

Speaking of knowledge, if we all seek the truth about our country's underbelly dealings within and abroad, all indications would point to a need for revolution. But, we don't want to know the truth, we can't HANDLE the truth. We're too afraid we might miss our favorite TV program.

Back in the day, I was a bartender. I worked in the same place for six years. GREAT memories. This past weekend, I was called upon to bar tend a private, family function for a friend. So, I decided to take it back a lil'. Cute bobbed wig, push-up bra, tight jeans, high-heeled boots and loads of charm....... and yes, I made out very well in my tip jar. Some things never change. LOL!!!

Set a new goal today. Create an opportunity for someone else.

I have a confession........I ate a bag of 'skins over the weekend. Bad girl.

Credit is evil, but is it a necessary evil? Pay cash dammit!

Did anyone watch the Bubba, Ed, and Ted H.ipH.op Awards? Sigh.

There is something blissful about consuming pizza and beer, maybe it has something to do with the nap you're forced to take afterward.

B.enR.oethlisberger and B.rettF.avre combined for 6 INT's on Sunday; they are my Fantasy Football QB's, so each week is a toss up for me as to which one I will start. My boy D.H. refers to me as "Season Over", LOL! Speaking of season over, can you say Cincy?

Donnie Mac held it down against A-Town, of course. Can I trade for him? I need to look into that; someone tell JT to holla at his girl. (JT is in my fantasy league.)

M.ikeS.ingletary is a head coach. This is gonna be interesting.

I.saiahT.homas,what really good?

Basketball season is here! When the basketball and football seasons overlap, life is good.

J.immyR.ollins and R.yanH.oward are delicious, and so are C.arlosP.ena and B.J.Upton, and that's all I have to say until there is a winner in this series.

Where is season three of The Boondocks? I have worn the first two seasons out, I know the dialog. Someone tell A.aron Mc.Gruder to holla at me. I NEED SEASON THREE!

Facebook is a helluva drug.

Keep your eye on this shht our gov'ment just pulled in Syria. What kind of timing is this?

Ommmmmm........

The Maven

A Monday Mind

Hugs and Kisses Y'all!

The weekend was juicy like D.erek L.ukes' lips. Not juicy in a gossipy or raunchy way, but fun and filled with happiness.

For me it began on Thursday, as I decided on a whim to dust off my roller blades and hit the beach. What a grand decision! It was a lovely So Cal day. It wasn't too crowded and it wasn't too hot. The wind was just challenging enough to make me skate harder, my iPod was bumpin', there were some cuties out too, also skating, jogging, or bike riding. At one point I sat down on a bench to relax and take it all in. I became fixated on two kites and my were they fancy. Kites have come a long way from my days as a pup. I think I want one! LOL! Anyway, like I said, the iPod was bumpin', and it was in shuffle mode, and all of a sudden Ree Ree Frank came in singing "Mary Don't You Weep" and at first it was sort of odd, because my surroundings gave no reasons to mourn. But, as the song continued, it gave me pause to reflect on my blessings and the beauty of life, and the song took on more meaning. It was funny though, to watch carefree, happy people frolic in the sand by while hearing "Pharaoh's army drowned in the red sea", and I began to think about tsunami's, so I quickly forwarded to the next track. I skated back to my ride, drove to Pinkberry, got my usual small with fruity pebbles and blueberries, and headed home (with a nice lil' tan, I might add).

Friday night, I went steppin'. By the way, the folks in the video are from the LA crew. I'm gonna tell you.......I gotta get some better shoes for this. Being cute and sexy is cool, but by the end of the night, my feet are usually crying for mercy. I love it though. If there are steppin' lessons in your city, trust me, go and join in, because it is an amazing and sexy dance. Great for couples if you wanna take your boo. Great for singles if you wanna meet someone new. Good cardio also.

Saturday night, I saw Eric Roberson at the Temple Bar here in Santa Monica. Supa Lowery Brothers opened for him. I copped their CD at the Third Street Promenade one day while they were out there playing. They are VERY good. As for E Robe, with the beautiful smile, he didn't disappoint AT ALL! I have been listening to him for a few years now, but this was my first chance to see him live and he gave me house music, freestyle, beautiful ballads and personality plus. He is very charming and incredibly talented. The band, Franklin Bridge, is phenomenal, and I was happy to see cutie pie Curt Chambers in the flesh. I'm gonna give the drummer some too! Great night!

Sunday, I chilled. I studied, I chatted with my girls back home on BB Messenger (hilarious stuff), I cooked a nice dinner, cracked open a nice bottle of wine, and watched that craaaazzzzy B.ridezillas with my momma and my cousin, over the phone. We laughed SO hard at those broads. WHERE do they come from???? Toe Jam at its best!

One more thing, The Football League Hall of Fame Game was a teaser. Not fair. Bring on the real thing! I'm ready!

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.

When Was The Last Time You Felt Like This?

Thanks Fly Guy!

Hump Day House Music - Home Edition

Yo! I'm headed to the crib in the morning! Can't wait. I get to see the smiling faces of the two who gave me life! I need this break, badly. Haven't been to the crib in a year and I'm homesick. I need to recharge. See my best friends, old friends and loved ones....Wake up to see deer running across my Pop's lawn....Taste The Lady's home cooking....Eat some Harold's, Curt's and Giordano's....See the Skyline....Roll on Lake Shore Drive....Walk down Michigan Ave....Hit up the Taste of Chicago and the Old Skool Picnic and listen to some House Music... Go to Hyde Park.... Make my rounds in London Towne....Go to church (TUCC)....Get some steppin' in somewhere on Stoney Island....Maybe get in a Sox game....

I will be checking in while I'm gone, but just know that this is EXACTLY how I will feel when I get off that plane.......

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......

It's Raining!

It's raining in Santa Monica! I can't tell you how thrilled and happy I am! My mood just did a 180. It's game time and I'm enjoying a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio with my front door wide open! I just love, love, love the rain. It smells SO DAMN FRESH! I have a fond memory of my grandmother Honey and I dancing in the rain out in front of she and my mom's houses. Classic!

Rain is a luxury here in LA. So imagine my excitement when the sky turned and ominous gray and thunder began to roll!

I'll let Sergio Mendes and Brazil '66 express just how I'm feelin'.........

Hump Day House Music

Oh yes I did...............

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)

We Now Break for an Important Message from our Supermodel

Pure comedy from Andy Borowitz at Huffington Post!

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!!!!

Hump Day Music - Coltrane Edition

I am a little weary in regards to this Primary race. It's taking too long.

I have begun to resent the sight of H. Rodham Clinton. For me, she represents greed, envy, and dishonesty. I can appreciate her resolve not to give up her fight, but I am detecting the scent of something fishy on the horizon, something Bushesque, and if The D Party pulls the rug from under Barack, there exist the possibility of uprising.

Statistically, she can't beat him, and numbers don't lie, but we are talking American politics here, so brace yourselves.

Hey, Independents, save some room for me, I'm coming over!

John Coltrane is emanating my sentiments on the masterpiece, "Dear Lord".

Rise up Saints! We need prayer. Close your eyes and listen.

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.

Me

There are times when I "check out". My girls understand. They laugh at me and say I'm on some "Maven" shit. They joke about me being somewhere meditating and burning incense, writing poetry and crying behind some love song.

They don't lie.

I get lost in myself sometimes. I relish it. Call it onlychildism. Call it Capricornism. Call it life.

I'm in my late thirties. By this time, I think we expect to have it all figured out, right? However, the wisdom of the elders reminds us that our learning has probably just begun, and actually never stops.

I watched this clip of E Badu singing "Me" and I love this song, it's comforting and affirming. See for yourself.......



Damn, that chick is soulful! My girl Stella and I always dub Erykah as the baddest. I admire her, because she lets it all hang out, her strengths and her flaws. She'll snatch her damn wig off at any given moment. I love it!

Anyway, I realize that I like who I'm becoming. It has been and will continue to be a journey of good days and bad, but beautiful none the less.

I give of myself, and perhaps too much sometimes. I've been known to love with reckless abandon, but too many broken hearts have curtailed that a bit. I'm cautious now.

I want to be solid in my professional life, in my finances, in my relationships with those I love.

I was talking to my girl, Mama So Fine, yesterday (I gave her that nickname years ago when she was pregnant because she was the flyest mother-to-be I'd ever seen). Over the years, she and I have come up with some of the craziest business ideas, and every now and then we rehash them and recycle them into something else, laughing all the while about how none of them have truly come to fruition. I asked her to promise with me, that we shall have no more regrets when it comes to our business lives. This includes stepping up our networking, socializing, and follow-up. We have agreed to be accountability partners. Basically, I've given her "no holds" permission to call me on my b.s. and I couldn't be happier.

This no regrets concept must be applied in all aspects of my life, though. Having no regrets, to me, means laying it on the line and making decisions that are in your best interest. If you hate it or love it, say it! If it can further your growth, do it. If it can harm you or get in your way, cut it loose. If its something that is good for you or to you, roll with it. If you can help someone else in need, by all means, pass it on.

I wake up and pray to be someone better than I was the day before.

I am ME, who are you?

Hump Day House Music - Congressional Hearings Edition

If you need a pick me up, I hope this pulls you through the day.

After yesterday's Iraq War hearings, General Petraeus might echo the sentiment of this song....cuz they were in his DOOKIE!!!!! But, in spite of all that scrutiny, he was still "balls to the wall" in his assertion and response that American troop withdrawal is a bad idea. Senate be damned!

I don't know about you, but I would like to talk to someone from this war ravaged region, someone of the common ilk, like myself. I want to know what's really 'hood over there. All our news reports are beginning to be a blur, and it sounds like elevator music. I'm afraid I am becoming desensitized, and that's not good. I know this situation is "no bueno", but am I afraid to know the dirty details? Are you?

I support a withdrawal, purely on the basis that I see no point in war. However, I don't want to see a country's less fortunate or helpless people left hung out to dry after we hat up. I saw that on the home turf, with Katrina, and the aftermath still lingers. Shits not cute

April 2, 1939 - April 1, 1984

Forty-four years.

That's what we were blessed with.

Today I celebrate the life and memory of Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr., known to us all as Marvin Gaye.

For your listening pleasure, I present my favorite selection.......