"Don' t Stop Believing"

The other day while channel surfing I came across a 2004 documentary entitled "My Date With Drew". The premise was that Drew Barrymore was the filmmakers childhood crush, and with the last $1100 he had to his name, he was going to rent a video camera for 1 month, and in that month document the process of trying to get a date with Drew Barrymore.
Needless to say it all worked out well for him, and I'm sure he has much more than $1100 in the bank at this point. I'm using this example to illustrate how little it can take financially to change your life. Not only did he meet his celeb crush, which is trivial when you're living hand to mouth, in doing so, the man made a hit documentary! He changed the entire course of his life with a $1100 and a rented camcorder from Circuit City!

So when I came across this video I wanted to share it. Canadian filmmaker Mathieu Ratthe wants to make a movie based on a bestselling Stephen King novel called "The Talisman" which was released in 1982. His problem is that back in 1982, Steven Spielberg bought the film rights to "The Talisman", and in the 26 years since then he hasn't made anything happen with it.

Being that Spielberg is a huge movie mogul, Ratthe has been unable to get the Spielberg camp to view his directors reel. Feeling that the only way to catch the attention of Spielberg was to get his vision out to the public, Ratthe created a short, and uploaded it to YouTube!
Ratthe's clip has gotten rave reviews from the Internet community, will it ever catch Spielberg's eye? Who knows? But I think it's great when people chase their success in unconventional ways. If the system is not working for you, step outside of it!


Avy! You see that face^, do not watch!

"The Rules"

Recently, A friend of mine asked me how to "make" a man commit.
IMPOSSIBLE! was the first thing that came to my mind. Not the commitment part of course, but the "make" part.
I believe the only thing that can make anyone fall in love with you, truly, is being yourself. Beauty and "brains" (wink wink) may capture a mans interest briefly, but if you have nothing else to offer you will quickly find yourself relegated to the discarded box of castoffs he has labeled "Not Girlfriend Material"

Now, men always come with a bag of problems, but for me, intent to commit has never been one of them. So it got me thinking...Can you make a man commit? I turned to The Oracle: Sex In The City!
"The Rules" and "He's Just Not That In To You" are 2 books forever ingrained in to the history of pop culture due to the massive success of Sex In The City.

We are probably all a bit more familiar with "He's Just Not That In To You". SATC had become infinitely more popular in its later seasons, and the writer Greg Behrehndt ultimately got his own (short lived) T.V. show, and now a movie with an all-star cast of the same name.

I know many people disagree with the entire notion of "He's Just Not That In To You". Of course all people are different, react differently to problems and scenarios, and want different things out of life and from their partners. However, the essence of the book rings true to me. If you and your partner want different things out of the relationship, and your needs are not being met, it may be time to seek greener pastures. Some may try to convince you that the grass is always greener on the other side, but if his grass is looking kinda dusty gray you probably don't have much to lose by stepping out on your own.

"The Rules" on the other hand is the uber strict doctrine that Charlotte followed in order to get Trey to propose. I find "The Rules" frightening in its rigidity, in my opinion anyone who was able to follow through with this would find that their entire relationship is based on lies and fallacy anyway.
Check out this synopsis of "The Rules":

Seal the Deal and Make Him Commit Don't Break These Rules
Following The Rules means letting him pursue you -- not seeing him more than two or three times a week, refusing to go away with him on weeklong vacations, and not moving in with him or crowding him in any way. If you've done all these things, you've actually helped him fall in love with you and want to marry you. He wants more of you, not less. And you will sense his desire to include you in his world. Within a year, if not sooner, he's figured out that he not only wants to marry you but has to marry you to see you more often, to really have you.
Your problem at this point is not if he's going to marry you but when. Men can happily date, commitment-free, for years! They are notorious for wanting to put off the actual engagement part until later. If he suggests living together first to see if you get along, tell him you're old-fashioned and want to wait until you're engaged or married.
If he hasn't asked you to marry him within a year -- or two at the most -- you might have to shake things up a little bit. Go away for a weekend with a girlfriend, cancel a Saturday-night date, get very busy at work, mention that you are renewing your apartment lease, or be mysterious about some of the things you do. All of the above should make him anxious to propose. A man who is wary of commitment is made less wary by a woman moving away from, not toward, commitment. This isn't trickery. You're just giving him the space he needs. And if this doesn't work?
Ask him what his intentions are. If he says he has no plans to marry you, say okay and then never see him again. Men don't lie about things like this. He's not scared of commitment -- he doesn't want to marry you.
If he says he does plan to marry you someday, but he's not ready yet, then it's up to you to close the deal. Ask him when -- and if it's more than a year away, see less of him and think about dating others. You've already spent more than a year waiting for him to propose. Do you have another year to wait?
If you are already living together and he says he doesn't want to become engaged, make plans to move out. But don't say, "I'm moving out because you won't commit." Just say that you need more space and you heard about a great apartment. When a man doesn't want to commit and you do, leave him alone. If he doesn't try to get you back with a proposal, don't waste your time. If he asks what's going on, nonchalantly answer, "I don't know if this relationship is for me." If he can live without you, you don't want him. Move on.
Here are five things not to do if he says he doesn't want to marry you, no matter how tempting.
1. Don't tell him you're hurt or mad, and don't reprimand him for leading you on. You stayed with him -- take responsibility for your actions. And if you've been living with him, you allowed him to be with you indefinitely without making a commitment.
2. Don't suggest going to couples therapy to discuss why he can't commit. Men can and do commit when they love you and when you maintain your identity and self-esteem in the relationship. But they can become commitment-phobic when a woman has pursued them, is too available, or they're just not in love with her.
3. Don't let your man brainwash you into thinking that marriage isn't important - "just a piece of paper." If he does not want to marry you, then he's not that in love with you -- he wants the option of meeting someone else!
4. Don't let a man convince you that because he's been married before, he can't marry you or that you should give him time to recover from wife No. 1 or 2.
5. Don't let a man you have been dating for years convince you to wait until "things slow down" at work or he's better off financially to make a commitment. There will always be work and money issues in life. They should have nothing to do with marrying you.
When a man loves you and wants to marry you, he gets down on bended knee and says something like, "Look, I know I'm not a millionaire, but I love you and I'd do anything for you."
You've seen it happen: A man will date a woman for five years, claiming he has commitment issues, but after breaking up with her, he marries someone else in six months. If a man truly is in love with you, and your actions (not your words) tell him that you won't wait around forever, his commitment issues will disappear and he will propose.
If you are involved with a man for several years who isn't proposing, how much longer are you willing to wait? When a man knows that you will accept less than marriage, he is not motivated to commit himself fully. You must be willing to walk away.
Assuming you are engaged, how do you actually motivate him to take the walk down the aisle? Becoming engaged is no guarantee of marriage, so don't get lax about The Rules. Don't talk to him on the phone for hours every night -- and it's still best not to move in together. Engagements can be broken and wedding dates never set. Better he should miss you and move up the wedding date than feel claustrophobic as you take over his closet space.
- The Rules: Time Tested Secrets for Capturing the Heart of Mr. Right, Warner Books, 1995

Could you follow these rules? If you can, do you think they would make a man commit to you? Do you have your own set of rules? Or do you operate free of restrictions?

Black Friday: It Ain't Over Till It's Over!

Who wanted to go out on Black Friday anyway? For a sale? To get elbowed and god forbid, trampled? No thank you. I'll take leftover turkey and a movie marathon.

But that doesn't mean I missed out, there are plenty of great deals online. I was able to shop from the comfort of my home. Here are a few websites offering a great selection on "Black Friday" sales which are lasting until Monday! Plus I heard Monday is AKA "Cyber Monday" so I don't even know if I should buy now, or if Monday is going to be the super-sale...

Shopbop.com is offering $50 off when you spend over $250, $100 off when you spend over $500 etc. Which makes this cute little winter jacket by ADD DOWN only $205.
Original retail price: $365



Over at Ssense.com they're offering 30% of off everything on the site when you enter the promo code blckfrd at check out. They also offer free shipping and there's no tax! Which brings this adorable Botkier bag that I was eyeing a few months ago until Alicia convinced me I didn't need it, but now I think I really do need it anddonttrytostopme!!!! down to $446. Original retail price: $638 (plus tax call it $700)



And at RalphLauren.com you can let loose your inner equestrian and get in on the sale-on-top-of-the-sale. On top of a huge selection of sale items they also have a promo-code. Type in Holiday2008 at checkout for an additional 30% off your total.
These tops would have cost you $179 and $90, respectively. With the sales you'll be scooping them up for about $55 and $40.




HAPPY SHOPPING!

Music Video Preview X Behind The Scenes Footage = B+B Special

This looks so dumb. Why does your friend have a paper boat on her head?
But I know when the video comes out it's going to be so hot my eyeballs will sizzle like the Sahara and I'll have to pick my jaw up off the floor. So let me just shut the eff up right now.

This is behind the scenes footage from Beyonce's next music video "Diva"

Beyv
Uploaded by Thizzordie007

And here is a Preview of Britney Spears new video for "Circus"

Jamie Foxx Featuring T.I. - Just Like Me

Get it while it's HOT!!!

Did I mention to you guys, that my friends are über fabulous? Seriously, they are a group of people that are meticulous about the way they look; and rightfully so. It stuns me the amount of detail they put into applying makeup, and finding new inventions. My opinion used to be, you've seen one mascara, gosh darn it you've seen em all. This was my theory, before they made me see the error of my ways, as they would say " Alicia, there are always new releases that trumps old existing products" I suppose this makes much sense, considering the fact that there are so many competing brands out there.

Either way, they know that I am very particular about not having a lot of GUCK on my face, just enough to give me a definitive glow. They always rag on me about not wearing much eyeshadow, and to be honest, it's because I detest buying the little ones @ MAC, I never have the color that I need when I need it. I've been meaning to get a good BRAND that has different assortments of colors. Ladies and gentleman, SEPHORA has delivered with the Ultimate Blockbuster - Collector's Edition:


It is being said to be "The ultimate makeup palette for eyes, face, and lips, all you need for complete classic beauty" The Sephora Brand Collector's Edition Palette sets the gold standard and gets you set. If you think I'm kidding, take a look at what it comes equipped with:

This palette has it all:
- 71 eyeshadow shades (0.04 oz each)
- 13 cream eyeshadow shades (0.03 oz each)
- 5 blushes (0.19 oz each)
- 1 compact powder (0.19 oz)
- 60 lip glosses (0.03 oz each)
- One lip liner
- One eyeliner
- 4 brushes
- 3 sponge-tipped applicators
- A smart black case that's as classy as you are.

Guys, this product is definitely a steal, it's value is $320; however, it is being sold at an absurdly low price of $48. You cannot beat that! Even if you don't get it for yourself, if you happen to have any make up junkie friends like a few of mine,(uh, hum... Avy, Kamilah) it will make a fantastic Christmas gift.

Smooches... If anyone of you beat me to the punch in purchasing this lovely item, please give SGHI your review.

Brand New Video!!!

Hi guys,

If you all are anything like me, you begin searching for new music just about every month. Your ipod playlists becomes old pretty quickly. Today's new video feature is none other than Neyo... I've been digging this song for a while and I have to say, I think he did the Video justice. It definitely coincides with the song. In all honesty, the message in this video is my worst fear realized. We should all practice not going to bed upset at all. Not only with our loved one but on a whole, trust me you'll sleep much more peacefully. Every week I will strive to bring you guys some new music to shake things up a bit. So listen out for the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. The videos will be an additional treat.

Does anyone know what movie Neyo's "girlfriend/wife" in the video is from? Her face looks really familiar and I can't place it... If you do know, be a good Samaritan and drop me a line with the answer, it will definitely put me out of my misery.

Without further adieu... Here's Neyo's new single MAD.....


Also, be sure to tell me what you think of the video...

Assouline The Fashion Questionaire Book

Proust's legendary personality revealer is recast with a fashion angle, posed to the fashion industry's most important and influential designers.
Continuing in the tradition of best- selling "Proust Questionnaire", this book has been recast with a fashion angle & posed to the fashion industry's most important & influential designers. Handwritten answers from such legendary greats as Herrera, Lagerfeld, Galiano & Browne intimately reveal personalities & tastes of each designer.


The Proust questionnaire is merely a questionnaire intended to reveal basic personality traits. It was made famous, though not invented by the French writer Marcel Proust, when copies of questionnaires he had answered in his youth became popular at auctions.
This book would make a lovely coffee table book for yourself or the fashionista in your life, as the questions have been answered by some of the most influential designers of our time.
Pick it up at Barnes and Nobles, or Saks.

Alex and Ani = Eco-Friendly Jewelry

Alex and Ani is a jewelry company owned and designed by Carolyn Rafaelian. Rafaelian's mission is to make her pieces not only beautiful and unique, but Eco-friendly. The metals used in her line are handcrafted from recycled materials, and the entire line is made in the good ol' U.S of A.
Check out the website: Alexandani.com for more info.

Alex and Ani was created as a vehicle to enhance human consciousness. To elevate human awareness, we aim to create powerful, meaningful, and spiritual elements that embrace life and deliver a stronger sense of purpose. Founder and designer Carolyn Rafaelian says, "The love that lives in our hearts demands that we do our best for all people." Alex and Ani is an effortless mix of uptown elegance and downtown cool, ethnic chic and causal couture. Made to enhance one's own natural beauty Alex and Ani is hand crafted in the USA. Each piece in the Alex and Ani collection exudes its own unique style, creating trends rather than following them.

On a personal note, previously most of my concern regarding products made in the U.S.A. were about people in other countries not being paid a living wage and working under insufferable conditions. But Obama's got me feeling patriotic, so now I also care that my fellow countrymen are gainfully employed and getting the American economy in motion so that I may go back to my previous irresponsible spending. I am only half joking.

Sephora Tricks Of The Trade Collection

Sephora's new line of must-haves puts the secret tips and tricks of the backstage pros at your fingertips.
I'm very interested in this new line from Sephora, relatively inexpensive, and created to make your makeup better. I've got my eye on the "eyeliner last" ahhh...I love eyeliner...
This is the full breakdown of the products offered:


1. Radiance Mist $12
Sephora Brand Tricks of the Trade Radiance Mist is infused with kiwi and citrus fruit extracts to give your skin a vitamin boost. This treatment will leave your skin looking soft, glowing, and fresh with a satin finish.
Trick: Give tired skin an instant, vitamin-rich radiance boost
Effect: Refreshed, soft, glowing skin

2. Perfection Primer $18
A highlighting makeup base that brightens and beautifies the skin. The pink pearlescent micro-particles and soft-focus pigments reflect the light for a radiant complexion.
Trick: Keep foundation fresher, longer with smoothing, reflective pigments
Effect: Lit-from-within, lasting complexion perfection

3. Anti-Shine Primer $18
Preps skin to expertly hold foundation and mattifies skin for up to eight hours, controlling and balancing sebum production.
Trick: Mattify skin to keep makeup fresh all day
Effect: Shine-free, pure, even coverage

4. Instant Lip Plumper $14
Sephora Brand Instant Lip Plumper pumps up your pout. This clear, glossy lip enhancer is infused with natural pepper and mint extracts to stimulate microcirculation, resulting in full lips.
Trick: Volumize lips with invigorating ingredients and multi-dimensional shine
Effect: A plump, glossy, bitten pout

5. Perfection Lip Primer $12
A lip priming pencil that preps lips for longer-lasting lipstick application and prevents lipstick from creasing and color from running.
Trick: Moisturize, plump and fill to extend and refine the wear of lipstick
Effect: Vivid, creaseless, lasting lip color

6. Eyeshadow Transformer $14
A liquid that gives your eyeshadows new life as gorgeous eyeliners.
Trick: Instantly transform powder shadows into liquid liner
Effect: Controlled, customized, convertible eyeliner

7. Lip Last $14
Sephora Brand Lip Last makes your lip color stay put for hours, if not all day.
Trick: Seal lipstick to prevent creasing, feathering and fading for hours
Effect: Fixed, flawless, always-fresh lip color

8. Eyeliner Last $14
A clear top coat that prevents your eyeliner from creasing and smudging.
Trick: Hold eyeliner in place and seal in color for hours of distinct, vibrant definition
Effect: Un-budgeable, un-smudgeable eyeliner

9. Makeup Setting Mist $12
Sephora Brand Makeup Setting Mist creates an invisible shield over the face that keeps makeup in place.
Trick: Set makeup with an invisible, hydrating and protective shield
Effect: Un-faze-able, marathon makeup

10. Eye Brightener $14
An Eye brightening and contouring pencil that conceals shadows and dark circles under the eyes to achieve a fresh look.
Trick: Erase fatigue with velvety illumination and corrective coverage
Effect: Bright, engaging, wide-awake eyes

11. Immediate Wrinkle Filler $20
Evens out skin tone while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
Trick: Fill in fine lines and wrinkles before makeup application
Effect: Smooth, luminous, youthful features

12. Complete Lip Balm $8
A lip balm that nourishes, moisturizes, protects and contains a natural active ingredient to temporarily plump lips.
Trick: Keep lips conditioned for optimal color and gloss application
Effect: A smooth, healthy, full-figured kiss

Purchase at Sephora locations or at Sephora.com

Start Holiday Shopping NOW!

I know it's hard to think about it now, but this time of year is not even considered early for the experienced Holiday shopper. Shopping now can save you a major headache later on, plus you don't want to be out in the cold, schlepping from store to sold out store looking for gifts. Pick things up here and there while you're out anyway, and start immediately.
Sephora may be a great one-stop-shop to take care of a lot of people on your list, especially the ladies. Check their website for a list of gift ideas under $25.00.

- www.sephora.com

Edressme.com Holiday Kick-Off Sale

If you've been pinching your pennies lately we commend you! But everyone needs a holiday dress or 2 right?
Well, the time of year for some of the best sales are approaching and Edressme.com is having a Holiday Kick-off sale this wknd to get you started.
Check out Edressme.com Saturday and Sunday (today/tomorrow) to save on some fab dresses! They really do have a lovely selection.

Twilight = Crack.

If for some reason you are not obsessed with a certain vampire series that has a large portion of the female population all hot and bothered, well then it is just a matter of time. Twilight is the first novel of a four part series by Stephanie Meyer that is creating Harry Potter-esque behavior in young girls and grown ass women everywhere. At first all the hoopla over this book and series just escaped me. How could books written for teenage girls cause such hysteria? Well, after teasing my sister and a coworker or two for their Twilight obsession, I have to admit that I have gotten in the long line of Twilight-ers. It got so bad that I was reading on the train [which is typically and quite strictly reserved for z's] and I was so involved that when the train pulled into Grand Central Station, the train emptied and I stayed on the train a good 5 minutes completely oblivious with the book just inches from my face - I was completely and utterly absorbed and lost all of my whereabouts. Very embarrassing! Coincidentally, Alicia even caught me reading on the train platform on Wednesday night. Now I am not generally one for romance novels, but this book isn't sappy. The implausible love between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen has got to be one of, if not the most severely intense love stories since Romeo and Juliet. If you crave a good romance, if scifi is your thing or if you prefer some action - I would safely bet that whichever you prefer, you will fall in love with this love affair.

I started the book on Monday and finished last night. I saw the movie today and I am posting this in the hopes that everyone who is reading will run out and get the book so we can gush about it together. All you have to do is read the first chapter and you will be hooked. Just do it! It'll be fun.
:)

Here is the movie trailer:


...and here is an excerpt from chapter one:

They were sitting in the corner of the cafeteria, as far away from where I sat as possible in the long room. There were five of them. They weren't talking, and they weren't eating, though they each had a tray of untouched food in front of them. They weren't gawking at me, unlike most of the other students, so it was safe to stare at them without fear of meeting an excessively interested pair of eyes. But it was none of these things that caught, and held, my attention.

They didn't look anything alike. Of the three boys, one was big - muscled like a serious weight lifter, with dark, curly hair. Another was taller, leaner, but still muscular, and honey blond. The last was lanky, less bulky, with untidy, bronze-colored hair. He was more boyish than the others, who looked like they could be in college, or even teachers here rather than students.
The girls were opposites. The tall one was statuesque. She had a beautiful figure, the kind you saw on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, the kind that made every girl around her take a hit on her self-esteem just by being in the same room. Her hair was golden, gently waving to the middle of her back. The short girl was pixielike, thin in the extreme, with small features. Her hair was a deep black, cropped short and pointing in every direction.
And yet, they were all exactly alike. Every one of them was chalky pale, the palest of all the students living in this sunless town. Paler than me, the albino. They all had very dark eyes despite the range in hair tones. They also had dark shadows under those eyes - purplish, bruiselike shadows. As if they were all suffering from a sleepless night, or almost done recovering from a broken nose. Though their noses, all their features, were straight, perfect, angular.
But all this is not why I couldn't look away.
I stared because their faces, so different, so similar, were all devastatingly, inhumanly beautiful. They were faces you never expected to see except perhaps on the airbrushed pages of a fashion magazine. Or painted by an old master as the face of an angel. It was hard to decide who was the most beautiful - maybe the perfect blond girl, or the bronze-haired boy.
They were all looking away - away from each other, away from the other students, away from anything in particular as far as I could tell. As I watched, the small girl rose with her tray - unopened soda, unbitten apple - and walked away with a quick, graceful lope that belonged on a runway. I watched, amazed at her lithe dancer's step, till she dumped her tray and glided through the back door, faster than I would have thought possible. My eyes darted back to the others, who sat unchanging.

"Who are they?" I asked the girl from my Spanish class, whose name I'd forgotten.

As she looked up to see who I meant - though already knowing, probably, from my tone - suddenly he looked at her, the thinner one, the boyish one, the youngest, perhaps. He looked at my neighbor for just a fraction of a second, and then his dark eyes flickered to mine....

Visible Thigh Highs? Do Or Don't?

Vanessa Hudgens hit the town recently in thigh highs. And I can see the top of them. Hmmm...
This sexy schoolgirl throwback hasn't been a part of popular fashion since the days of Liv Tyler and Alicia Silverstone in Aerosmith videos. I was a bit young to get away with wearing them then, but boy did I ever want to!
Now I wear thigh highs in place of stockings because they're a sexy surprise. You know with the whole garter belt thingamajigs. But with a longer skirt, not for them to show like this.
Does she only get away with this because she's young? Or is this a wearable fashion choice for all?

Do you have a T.O.N.Y. ?

T.O.N.Y. is Solange's new single. I remember liking this song from since I previewed her album, the message conveyed is interesting, not far fetched, and relatable to some folks...

Here is the unveiling of the video. I can't say that I am sold on it as yet. I'm currently undecided ... the toilet scene where she is exposing her TRACKS/Braids where the weave is sewn in is getting to me, moreover, I don't understand the running part??? I'm sure it will grow on me, I definitely like the song, though. Anyway,enough chatter... let's get on with it... take a look and tell me what u think...

Ohhhhhh Snap! You Going Out Like That, Huh?

It appears in this video that President Bush's approval is in a sorrier state than polls indicate. In a video taken at the G20 summit, Bush walks across a line of world leaders without shaking or being asked to shake any of their hands. Whether the President is being rejected by the world leaders or he is rejecting them, CNN's Rick Sanchez aptly says that Bush looks like "the most unpopular kid in high school that nobody liked."
-Huffingtonpost.com

Cold! Blooded! I mean, I know he's done some evil ass shit, but I can't help but feel a little sorry for him now that he 's on his way out. Nobody will even make eye contact with him.

Keri Hilson - "Turnin' Me On" Featuring Lil Wayne

OK. I'm only posting this because I've been trying to give this young lady a chance, and I don't even really know why. I feel I've been so beat about the head with how good she's supposed to be...her voice, her songwriting, her dancing...but every time I look at her, I feel like I'm watching a piece of dry toast doing a shimmy. Like a stale bowl of shredded wheat or something. Beautiful girl, just boring as shit.
I wish her as much success as anyone else, but call me when she does something interesting. Ciara's album has been pushed back, and she's already made a name for herself. It's cold out here, come correct!

Get An A+ In Participation This Thanksgiving.

If You're hosting Thanksgiving this year, good luck to you babes! Have fun with those dishes...
Thankfully, most of us will be guests this year, lightening the workload immeasurably.
Still, you should never show up empty-handed, and putting a little work into what you bring is always most impressive. If you want to cook something, but don't yet have a "signature dish" Check out The Food Network Website:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/thanksgiving/package/index.html
Or, the website for whichever chef you like best, be it Martha, Rachael, or Emeril BAM!
and try your hand at a recipe.

I suggest you experiment, and try cooking a dish or two at home for yourself first. You don't want to be embarrassed when your platter is the untouchable one.
I always bring something that
1. I can cook well.
2. Travels well. Food is eaten with all the senses, you don't want yours to get all jacked up looking on the ride over. It may taste good, but it will look like someone stepped on it.
3. Does not require much prep or re-heating time. You absolutely do not want to take up time in someone else's kitchen while they are preparing their meal!
4. Try not to step on your hosts toes by preparing something they are already making.

That said, I think pasta dishes are a great option. Ziti, lasagna, baked mac & cheese. For dessert pies or cookies, please stay away from frosted cakes. See rule number 2.

If you truly are all thumbs in the kitchen, bring a bottle of wine or order a platter from freshdirect.com. Please don't front like you made it yourself, try the berries/chocolate platter, something where everyone won't ask you all evening of you cooked it.
I had an aunt that layed out some KFC one year and pretended she cooked it. Everyone knows finger lickin' good when they taste it!

Good Luck!

Check out Beyonce's Interview on Power 105

Hey guys,

So it's that time of year again when Beyonce takes over the media circuit for a good 3 months... Below is a candid interview with Ed Lover and FREE (Yes! that Free.. 106 & Park)she speaks about the comment that Kanye made about her and Rhianna, her sister, and her album.


It seems that Miss Beyonce has been reading our blog because she seems to be taking hints, she is now developing and showing an actual personality. YAY

Take a listen... By the way, has anyone picked up her new CD? What do you think?

Beyonce Interview

Thick Legs and all...

Just recently, as Kamilah has already stated we saw Secret Life of the Bees...where Alicia Keys was one of the co-stars. I remember remarking to Kamilah that Alicia Keys has "cankles"... you know.. Fat ass ankles :)

(See pic above)Point Noted!

Being a girl with thick legs, I know that this in no way takes away from Alicia's beauty, it's just funny to look @. Here are a few of the latest pics of Alicia Keys looking stunning...






So tell me... what will it be CaNkLeS or ANKLES? Does it really make a difference?

Young Jeezy - Crazy World

Just because a girl needs a little Jeezy from time to time.

Justin Timberlake & Beyonce Do "Single Ladies"

Last Saturday Beyonce and Justin Timberlake were guests on SNL, resulting in a very funny parody of "Single Ladies". I've been trying to post a the video, but it's getting removed everywhere it's posted, so I give up.
If you haven't seen it by now, youtube it up, maybe you can catch a version before it's taken down.

*UPDATE
I just found this clip from ENews on HULU.COM (told you guys I love that website.)
It's not as good as watching the whole skit straight thru, but it will give you a good idea of it in case you cant find the real one.


Also, I just noticed that I own the belt Beyonce is wearing. A recession proof $12.90 from H&M thankyouverymuch!

Katy Perry Hot & Cold

A friend of mine asked if I had heard this song recently, she was all enthused about it, so maybe I'm late. Where do they show music videos anymore anyway?!
So I saw it today, and it's totally cute. Plus she said her man PMS's like a bitch, tee hee hee. I got a chuckle out of that.

Rihanna - Rehab Featuring Justin Timberlake

I don't know much about Rihanna's music, so I was under the mistaken impression that this was a duet with Justin Timberlake. In fact it seems the point of him being here is that he is one of the writers of the song, and I guess someone thought he would make a good music video ho.
They actually do look good together, I could believe it, I guess. I do not like Justin's expertly manicured "scruffy" beard, or that silly trail of hipster stars on Rihanna's neck/upper back. Now that looks like a disease! I think it reminds me of Alien Nation.

Ready For A Black Bond?

Current James Bond actor, Daniel Craig has visions of his successor being black
Craig says: "I'm a real fan of Obama because I like his political ideas. And I think it's the right moment for a black James Bond. If we can have a black US President, I think we might have reached the moment for a new kind of 007.

"I think the role could easily be played by a black actor, because the character created by Ian Fleming in the 50s has undergone a great deal of evolution and continues to be updated."


His comments have sparked a wave of media outlets speculating on which black actor would be right for the role should a Black Bond ever come to pass. Names being tossed around include Taye Diggs, Jamie Foxx, Morris Chestnut, Shemar Moore, Michael Ealy, Terrence Howard, and even Seal! Weird!

The only suggestion I've heard that I could get behind is Idris Elba, he has the rugged good looks, and the accent of course. I'd give it a chance.


Interestingly, A black man has been considered to play Bond before. British actor Colin Salmon, was in talks to take over the role.

I don't know his work, but I think the look is OK.

People's 10 Best Dressed Stars Of 2008

People Magazine has unveiled their list of the 10 best dressed celebs of this past year. Here they are, in no particular order. Agree, or disagree?



1. Charlize Theron

2. Eva Mendes

3. Michelle Obama

4. Sarah Jessica Parker

5. Heidi Klum

6. Anne Hathaway

7. Fergie

8. Gwyneth Paltrow

9. Rihanna

10. Kate Hudson



I can ride with Heidi, Gwyneth, Anne, and SJP for the most part, and Michelle Obama is a refreshing breath of fashionable air for a first lady. But the other half of the list get a big fat N.O.
What do you think?

Barack is the new Denzel.

If the 30's are the new 20's and gray is the new black, then surely Barack is the new Denzel! Makes perfect sense to me. Come on ladies, let us put politics aside for once and discuss our new swagilicious President! He is so smooth. From his walk, to his talk, to the way he answers questions with a stern and confident "Look-" ... what can I say, he is just fine as hell - lol. The people at GQ must be in agreement since they named him "Game Changer of the Year" and put him on the cover of their "Men of the Year" issue. Senator Edward M. Kennedy had this to say about Obama on blogGQ:

As I write this, Barack Obama and John McCain have just completed their final debate, and the country is a few short days away from a historic election. Of course, I’m doing all that I can for my candidate. But whether he wins or loses, Barack Obama has ushered in a new era of American politics with a limitless vision of a better future that will endure for many years to come. Through his candidacy, Obama has provided a glimpse of a stronger, better, fairer America, where change comes from the bottom up, where we all come together to meet the great challenges of our time. He has inspired millions of new voters of all ages, races, and incomes to lend their voices for real change. For in this man, Americans can see not just the audacity but the possibility of hope for the country that is yet to be.

I had not planned to endorse anyone in the primaries. The Democratic candidates were my friends and colleagues—some for many years. I knew them well and could support any one of them enthusiastically as our party’s candidate for the White House. But I had to admit that one stood out. I had already come to know Barack as a Senate colleague who was gifted with a rare combination of talent and principle, vision, and a capacity to transcend divisions of party, ideology, and race. Once he announced his improbable campaign for the presidency, I listened as he spoke to the heart of America, and moved the young in spirit as well as age, by challenging us to think of something bigger than ourselves, something more powerful than the incremental politics of caution. I sensed a deep yearning in our people for the kind of person he is and the kind of president he will be: a fighter who cares passionately without demonizing those who differ, a leader who sees the world clearly without being cynical and shows the world the best of America, a president who will not shred the Constitution but uphold it.

Read full article here.

Style Smackdown! Featuring Cassie!

They both look crappy.

I think Cassie's got this one.

Flour Attack!

An anti-fur/PETA activist/ladyboy threw flour all over Lindsay Lohan in Paris. The video got a chuckle out of me. Really Lindsay can't complain, this is a lot better than the days when they used to throw red paint on people. Plus, a dusting of flour might help counteract all that orange fake tan shit she has all over her. A "Thank You" may be in order.

Movie Review: Changeling & Secret Life Of Bees

The girls and I had an emotionally draining afternoon when we caught a "double feature" of:

Secret Life Of Bees

Changeling
I wasn't crying, my eyes were just hot!


Bees was better than I expected. I read the book a while back, and I didn't love it. So it was one of the few times when, in my opinion, the movie surpassed the book. It was definitely entertaining, and had quite a few touching scenes. Alicia Keys has been on our shit list lately, and she was a mega-bitch in the movie, so we were mad at her. If you were interested in seeing the movie, go for it. But things come out on DVD/cable so quickly you may want to wait, if you aren't pressed about it.

Changeling was also good, but this time I expected it to be. Although I was Team Spike Lee in the war of words between Clint and Spike a few months back, I must admit that Clint Eastwood is an incredible filmmaker. If you're not up on his work, you should be. Try Blood Work, or Mystic River and take it from there.
Angelina Jolie did an amazing acting job, I think that was the standout feature of the film. Great work was also done by John Malkovich and Jason Butler Harner, the acting was definitely better than the actual telling of the story, which kind of leaves you yelling at the screen trying to tell the characters what to do. Still, altogether it's an excellent film.

Again, I won't say you should definitely spend your $11.00 on it, but if you go see a "double feature" like us, its only $5.50. Hey, in these times, you gotta stay criminal minded!

Pink "Killing Me Softly"

Alicia and I were just doing movie night at her place, and Pink somehow made her way in to the convo. So when I saw this vid of her doing a very nice rendition of killing me softly, I thought I'd post it. Dont completly fall asleep on Pink...

50 Cent + Tyra Banks = Kinda Interesting?

The video still alone is funny.

Comedy Legacy

In other funny show news, Wookie's (Chris Elliot's) daughter Abby, will be joining the cast of SNL this season. Chris Elliot is SNL alumni, so his daughter will be the first legacy in SNL history.

Cheaaa...Ya Know What? Uh Uh.

Fox is closing the book on "Mad TV" after 14 seasons.

Net confirmed Wednesday that the Saturday night sketch series, which had barely escaped cancellation in recent years, will end its run at the end of this season.
-Variety.com

Awww...I havent watched Mad TV in years but I'm kinda sad, I used to love it. Here's to the memories, cause you know you love Lorraine, Dot, Stuart and 'em.