Chase Your/Our Dreams...

Stay tuned for this documentary in 2011! Dream big, chase those dreams and never give up! #selftalk

LOVE IS....

As I was reading through Angela Simmons blog she posed a question of "what is love"?? She asked people to write down what THEY felt love is....

I thought I'd share everything that came to mind when I thought of the word love...these are not only for spousal relationships but also relationships with friends and family. We all need to get and give love, it really does conquer all....

LOVE IS:
perfectly imperfect
blind to flaws but aware they are what makes us all special
genuine
laughter balanced with some tears of sadness
patient
acceptance
unpredictable
not a thing but a feeling
understanding
communication
confusing
affection
telling all secrets in confidence of not being judged
risk taking
giving with no expectations of a return
a push to be the best YOU
painful
forgiveness...over and over and over (u get it...)
GOD

Random...Gwen Stefani

I love Gwen Stefani!! She seems like a cool mom and her kids dress so cute! I hope I can look like this when I do decide to have kids...comfy but stylish.




These are old pictures but I love them! Just browsing the net...
#carryon

Merry CHRISTmas Eve!!

Wishing everyone a very Merry CHRISTmas Eve! All the stores are beginning to close and the wrapping rush begins :-))) Surprisingly I did my shopping early this year and I had my gifts wrapped and under the tree last night. I even went out today because it felt so weird not having to shop the days before Christmas. The grocery store was a parking lot, between Christmas dinners and the forecast for snow was a recipe for disaster. Target was even worse!!

I'm excited about our dinner we are having tomorrow so the food is already prepped and I will be banging those pans in the morning! Breakfast will be at my Gma's house then it will be my turn to throw on the apron...

Tonight I'll be in the house with the fam and I'm also working on one of my goals for the new year....I want it to be perfect! With all that being said be sure to be thankful for everything and pray for those who are less fortunate. If possible, give to them as well...every little bit helps!

Happiness...I need FEEDBACK!

I'm trying to put something together so can I please get your feedback???!

What is your definition of happiness?? Do you think happiness is a destination or a continuous journey? Do people allow others (media, friends, family ect.) views of happiness define what they feel it really is?

Honest opinions...THX!! Feel free to go into detail, I love to listen :-))

Vision Board...

Here it is!!! My vision board...I've finally made one :-))) I've been trying to put one together for the longest and I have a lot of things that WILL COME TO PASS in my life.

This is exciting to have things to actually work towards and be able to look at it everyday. I always have tons of thoughts and ideas but my board allowed me to narrow them down. I'm going to challenge myself to see how many vision boards I can create...once I've accomplished everything in one I will make new boards which will constantly give myself things to work for. I also added quotes and positive words to keep me on course.

In the past, a lot of things I have dreamed about or wanted to gain I didn't really believe I could gain but I believe in myself with the help of God that all the things I want I will have. 2010 my focus was on changing my thinking and building character now 2011 is about taking action. I even got Morgan to make a board! It's never too early to start setting goals. I wish I would've started thinking and believing way back then. It made me feel good when she told me she has it hanging above her bed and is going to try hard to stay focused....

DeSean Jackson does it again...GIANTS

My Skins disappointed me again but they put up a good fight...cowboys still suck! But I had to put up a video of my boy DeSean Jackson burning the entire Giants defense. I love how he plays cat and mouse around the end zone LOL!



Dodge was nervous before he punted the ball and DeSean Jackson already knew what he was about to do. As he taunted him waving as to say "c'mon kick it right to me" LOL! That block around the 45 yd line helped him to take it all the way in!

Since my Skins will not be in the playoffs I have to ride with the Eagles to support my man Vick and my new comedian on the field...DeSean Jackson!!

CITY OF INK ON THE TUBE!!!!

Please send emails, letters ect to all television networks for CITY OF INK's show!! This will give some shine to a black tattoo shop full of inspirational artists in the tattoo world as well as music, fashion and charity work. With all this garbage on tv this will be a great inspirational but funny show to be aired....



I hope you ENJOY!

Happy Monday!

Just wishing everyone a happy Monday and enjoyable week! Be sure to be a blessing to someone this holiday week and weekend. Don't stress too much over Christmas gifts, remember the reason for the season and give thanks for what we do have :-)))

I'll be putting up a pic and blog about my vision board! So glad I participated...I was so into it and my vision board has so many different things on it so I have a lot to focus on now.

4 1/2 DAYS TIL CHRISTMAS!!! I wonder if we will have a white one this year....

The "Secret" & Oprah...

I have been in a book club for the past month which was started by my hair stylist Kellie, we have been reading some really great books! I think I'm going to suggest "The Secret" for one of our reads, this book talks about how the Law Of Attraction works in the universe. I have read it and it really helped me to change my thinking and focus more consciously on every single thought that crosses my mind. I thought about this as i got really excited about our book club meeting this Saturday where we will be making Vision Boards!! I have always wanted to make one but I never took out the time to go through magazines and books to find images for my board. So this was so needed for me that we are doing this on Saturday. A Vision Board is just a creative way to put long term or short term goals all together to help stay focused on what we want to come to pass in our lives. The benefit of vision boards tie into the law of attraction...what your mind focuses on is what you will attract to your life. So any images, quotes, people ect. can be added to your board that gives you inspiration to stay focused on the goals at hand.



Oprah is another amazing individual that I study and she also speaks on how she uses the Law of Attraction in her life. We all know how successful Oprah is so I'll definitely take her word for it. A lot of us look at her and say well she has this and that, she know this and that person but she did not START out with all those things and connections. If you have the drive anything can be accomplished and a vision board is a good way to start because he makes you sit down and really think about what it is you would like accomplish, the type of lifestyle you want to live and begins your planning stage as far as what ways you will begin getting there. Once you have those visualizations, it's easier to keep your mind focused. I'll probably start off with a short term vision board so I don't become overwhelmed then gradually add to it as the short term goals become reality.

For 2010 I tried to focus on changing my mind and thinking and for 2011 and I trying to focus on actually taking action....keep praying for me! Things have already began looking good for me :-)))

Miya Bailey Q&A: Part 3....

More from Miya Bailey...don't forget to check out www.miyabailey.com for dope art and tattoos!

QnA with Miya Bailey pt 3 from artemus jenkins on Vimeo.

How many of us had a dream as a child that we have not pursued?? I know I have...some things seem as if they are untouchable or unattainable but as I get older I see that it really is, we just have to have discipline and will power. Easier said then done but the good part is we know it can be done.

I hope you enjoyed....

Morning Laugh....

Just thought I'd remind those Cowgirls fans how DeSean Jackson felt last night :-))))

Cooking Mama....

One of my new things for 2011...I want to start experimenting with new dishes like they did in the movie Julie & Julia! Hopefully Santa will bring me that cook book I asked for and I can crossover to the other side and become a real "SHEF" hence my last name. I can whip up some dishes now but I'm ready to learn something different.

I'll be sure to make updates of all my new creations. Below is experiment 1: Chicken Marsala...it came out deeeeelicious considering it was my first time fixing this dish.


- Checking in from my iPhone...I love everyone's feedback!

2011...

"THIS IS MY YEAR" LOL...I'm sure we will be hearing that a lot for the next 23 days! Every year is my year...as long as I'm moving forward, whether small or big steps, I've achieved my goal.

As the new year is quickly approaching I've been thinking of some new things for the blog!! Definitely don't want to stay stagnant, doing the same things...2010 was more about digging deep within myself and looking at situations and learning to look for a lesson in even the smallest scenarios. I feel I'm at a new phase and I'm sure everyone will love it!! If not, I do so that's what matters most :-)))

Keep checking back and feel free to comment and leave suggestions! I'll still be posting things before 2011 but I just thought I'd blog and let people know what's on my mind right now.

Frustrated...

*singing* Just one of them dayssssss...

I have no clue what is going on right now but I just feel sooooo frustrated! Nothing in particular has taken place but I'm just having one of those days. I'm trying to keep my cool at work but it seems as if everything is just irritating the FOCK out of me. Woooossaaahhhh...I had a few things on my mind so I'm sure that has a little to do with it. I have been working on giving control to God and stop trying to figure everything out and make moves on my own. I prayed for patience and He's surely testing and strengthening it.

just had to vent...thanks for listening *blows bangs*

1...2....3...Breathe eazzyyyyyy

Q&As w/ Miya Bailey...

Below are vids of my big homie Miya Bailey's Q&A Parts 1& 2...He's a fantastic artist, I wrote up a story on him earlier this year. If you ever want a official tattoo he is your guy! He is such an inspiration to me on so many different levels, from his blog (www.miyabailey.com) I was inspired to start my own. Best decision yet! Miya is a very transparent individual, straightforward and loves to let people inside and see what his world is all about. So these series of vids are answers to a collection of questions that people have asked him over a period of time that takes you a little deeper into his mind as an artist as well as a human being.

QnA with Miya Bailey from artemus jenkins on Vimeo.

Q&A With Miya Bailey Pt. 2 from artemus jenkins on Vimeo.

Artist are meant to inspire, influence as well as help you to tap into that touch of creativeness that I feel we all possess...thank u!

Mike Vick Project....

Just finished reading the cover story of the new Sports Illustrated titled 'Is it O.K. To Cheer' featuring Mike Vick...
This was a perfect title for this type of story an instance that takes place all the time. People making mistakes and trying to make changes but still fighting to win the approval of others and make them believers. I was always a Vick fan and felt the punishement he received was overdone. There are tons of players in the NFL (as well as other professional athletes, politicians, ect.) that have committed worse crimes than dog fighting but have somehow seem to be swept under the rug everytime.

My opinion still stands that race played a key part in the harsh punishment that was received. I do agree he should have owned up and dealt with consequences for his actions but the degree of punishment and publicity is what pissed me off. Everyone has that time in their life or incident that forces them to change, alot of people sucumb to the pressure of their trials. Vick showed us how strong and determined he was/is and proving to everyone who wants to brand him with this label as a cruel "dog killer". He's proving he is more than that and has a lot to offer and can also serve as a role model for kids as well as adults who feel its the end of the world when big mistakes are made. We can overcome ANY obstacle, we have to be the ones to make that decision to change and have faith in God.

No matter how much good Vick has done, no matter how many touchdown passes he throws the media is going to continuously be sure he doesnt forget his mistakes. During a timeout of the "carnage" lol of the Redskins they showed clips of him in court, getting locked up and pleading his case in reference to the dog fighting. My question is, was that the only footage they could find after he has served time, completed community service, became a better family man and the list goes on?? The lesson i got from it was our mistakes will always follow us but they dont have to consume or define us. We can choose to remember the mistake or the lessons learned from them. Vick is showing how to do the latter.

So to answer the question to the title....YES it is OK to cheer!! People should have been cheering when he was at his lowest point, thats when he needed it the most. Its easy to support the good but its more valuable when you support the progress from negative to positive....





- Checking in from my iPhone...I love everyone's feedback!

Happy Birthday Mr. Carter!!!

Just wanna say Happy Bday to my main man, future business partner (wishful thinking) Mr. Sean Carter! I know I'm borderline obsessed with him but he is the epitome of success on all levels, way more than just rap. When you want to become more you have to study people who have more and the success you desire. He's definitely one of the main individuals I pay close attention too....

I know Bey will continue to "cater to you" :-))


- Checking in from my iPhone...I love everyone's feedback!

Abstract....

I am a lover of art! I finished up my photography class last night with a wrapping up party. We all enlarged two of our fave photos to present during the get-together. It was a lot of fun to see the photos everyone chose and how different an enlargement can make in the details and overall quality of the picture. I have included my favorite below....

Colors and abstract are my favorite! When this was enlarged into an 8x10 it took this basic window treatment in Anthropologie (clothing store) to a whole different level. It's like the sun is fighting it's way through the structure and the patterns on the wall can serve as faux sun rays. The interpretation is left to the eye of each individual but I love the energy the most that comes from the art itself....

Lights Out....

I got caught slipping last night while trying to read my book. Dead tired....

With that being said I need to take my butt to bed and get prepared for Friiiiiidaaaayyyyyy!!

Nitey Nite

HEARTLESS: The Fray....

I'm a big fan of the group 'The Fray'...they did a cool remake of Kanye's Heartless. This is a interesting video as well!

Enjoy...

The FRAY - Heartless from IE HAGY on Vimeo.

Window Shopping...

On my way to the library I saw this cuuute jacket...just thought I'd share :-)))


- Checking in from my iPhone...I love everyone's feedback!

Carnage...

CARNAGE: the Slaughter of a great number of people, as in battle; massacre

Since I began blogging I've been trying to expand my vocabulary so it will give me more leverage in getting my point across on posts. The dictionary/thesaurus app on my phone is my best friend! When you have an expansive vocab, it eliminates a lot of "like" "umm" "that thing" "you know what I'm saying" out of everyday conversation.

As I'm reading Decoded, I'm on the section "Politics As Usual"...Jay spoke on the fact that between 1989 and 1994 more black men were murdered on the streets of America than died in the entire Vietnam War. That was craaaazy to me and we all know there were a lot of killings during the big cocaine and police brutality era but using that analogy shows just how bad things were. I question if things are still the same if not worse OR has the gov't just found a better method at hiding these statistics and "cold cases". "America did not want to talk about the human damage, or deeper causes of the carnage". Which is when censorship of rap music came into place...a lot of topics expressed in rap were MOST of the times real situations taking place in black communities all over.

Kanye & Our Fears reflected thru Judgements of Others...

*YAWNING*

Waking up at insanely crazy times of morning is becoming the norm so I figure why not blog. I happened to be on FB and I was watching a video upload on REALTALKNY website, from Kanye's album release concert in NY last night, which provoked me to post on a topic I had been discussing earlier this week. Before I go into that since it was inspired by something Kanye said (4:48 in vid) I'll give some props to Kanye and his new album 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy'....this has to be one of the best album's of the year!! Kanye put his all into this one, I'm sure he does with all his albums but I feel all the controversy, from the past year hell his whole career, made him work even harder. He had time to deal with pinned up anger, issues and emotions and it definitely spilled onto this Amazing album. He had some of the best artist to help him out from Teyana Taylor to Elton John. No matter how bad the media bashes Kanye he is a genius who is trying to find a medium between being true to himself and being "media friendly"...impossible if you ask me. The media will bash anything or anyone that poses a threat to the "norm" in any way. Most artists (not just musicians) have a hard time creating without offending the masses...we are all hedonistic most of the times so in order to feel self gratified we tend to offend others in the process. Take a look at the clip and you be the judge, which leads to my next topic....

Are we the cause of our lack of success deriving from our judgments of others?? When I say that, I'm asking do our biggest fears come from the negative views, thoughts ect. we pass on others? We all know in order to progress you need others but it's hard to get over yourself when you feel other's won't accept who you REALLY are or they will view you the same way you view others. I know as a society we can be very judgmental which is mainly provoked by the news, blogs, reality shows ect. It's always worrying about the negatives and pointing out the next persons flaws. But are we doing this to take the light away from our flaws or to make us feel better about ourselves? We all try to give off a feint of confidence and strength but we are all dealing with some sort of insecurity, some more than others...

When we talk about people, myself included, all it does is hurts us in the end. That same negative thought or comment you made about 'her/him' is the same thought that's going to run through your mind when you are trying to go for that next promotion, the next networking event, competition or just a request for help. We will think "are they going to like me", "they are going to say no", "I'm not good enough for this group", "I have too many issues", "they look better than me" and the list goes on...Some of these worries are the norm but most of the time they are our thoughts coming back to haunt us. Lately I've been trying to control my thoughts when I see something I don't necessarily agree with because I remember I will be in a position at some point to be judged and I don't want everything to be unfavorable. I try my hardest to see that ONE good thing in the situation or individual that you can't find off first glance. That deeper look may be that deeper look someone gives me when I am under the microscope.

Every individual has layers so we should practice getting beyond the surface...the ones who look the best may have some very interesting under layers while the one who seems to have issues and not so easy on the eye may have the answer or connection you need to move you to that next level of success!

Lengthy post but i've been thinking about this for a while....thx for reading!!! :-))))

I Love to Read...

I finally received my Decoded book! Flipping thru the book there are tons of amazing pics as well as lots and lots to read. I initially assumed the book would solely be filled with images but i was mistaken, ill be reading for a while. I included a few pages from the book...Jay has done it again :-)


One of the greatest...Notorious B.I.G


All Black Everything...this movement was inspired by his love for the Black Panther Party



We all know Politics can be a bitch!

- Checking in from my iPhone...I love everyone's feedback!

Kid Cudi....

This blogging thing is getting even more exciting...I'm learning how to add new features as far as videos and audio clips other than youtube.

I've been listening to Kid Cudi's new album "Man On The Moon II" and it is DOPE! I listened to a couple tracks on his last album "Man On The Moon" but not the entire album but I took a interest in Cudi when I saw a video of him inebriated in the streets of LA (I think). Then he was on 106 & Park acting very outlandish, he has admitted to using coke in the past...I'm thinking he may still be enjoying those highs 0_o

Listening to his album...it seems as if he's crying out for help. I understand him a lot more and I'm sure plenty of people can relate to his life and the cause of his actions. One of my favorite songs, other than Ashin' Kusher (banger!), is 'Trapped In My Mind' I've included the song below...I feel everyone can relate in some way to this song....

"Trapped In My Mind" - Kid Cudi by dustinnguyen

A verse that stuck out to me as far as myself is "I'm stuck in rewind though I'm looking forward man I wish I knew what went wrong"....I deal with this all the time! Trying to move forward and become better but my mind won't allow me to. But I have to take control of my thoughts and mind, like I've said before the mind is a very powerful thing! I'm always thinking "what if I would have..." thinking about things I could've done differently or not done at all where would I be. But I can't continue focusing on that because what has happened is over and done with and it's a reason or a lesson behind it all. Jay Z (oops I mentioned him again) said it best "in order to survive you gotta learn to live with regrets".

We all have reasons behind every negative choice we've made, words we say but once it's done it's done. I'm ok when I'm having my good days and I'm on Cloud 9 but on those low days that's when I rewind thoughts and get down on myself. I have to start using my low days as times to strengthen my mind and thoughts. Constantly and Consciously replacing negative thoughts with positive ones....

Lengthy post...I know! By the way the picture above is a pic I took for my photography class, it goes perfect with the "Man On The MOON II" album title #random

Last Hovi Post...Promise

I know I have been bombarding my blog with Jay Z content but since his book was released this week tons of people have been interviewing him! The best interview was done by Howard Stern...this is a 57min interview but he dug deep into a lot of situations regarding Jay. Usually I notice Jay Z is able to talk around subjects he doesn't want to discuss but for this interview he answered all the questions the blunt Howard Stern came at him with. After my Dad heard this interview, he even became a fan (on the low) lol He's also a loyal listener to the Howard Stern show...IDK how he does it, that man can be too obnoxious at times. Anywhooo...ENJOY!

PoeticEeshBeesh...LOL!

I tried to walk alone never knowing where I was going

I went from wanting to be a pediatrician to a computer tech

From a photographer to model then settling for baby mama; only for security, ohh how silly of me

I loved to get high, not on Mary anymore, but from my plans that went right out the door

I never achieved because I really didn’t believe

I didn’t believe because I knew none of it was really for me, got tired of going around in circles

Still living life with no purpose...Going no where fast still finishing last

I always wanted more for myself but I had to learn first to get over myself

Truly making God my focus, life stop feeling so hopeless

Wiping my hands of all my future plans, all past memories blown away like sand

Still a work in progress but determined not to regress

Surrendering was the best choice yet, armoring myself against all threat

No more morbid convos that stirs up trouble as fast as the time goes

They say what’s in you will pour out....so so true without a doubt

I am so blessed, how dare I put God through all this stress??

I’ve apologized for all my mess now I’m letting HIM take care of the rest!!

Decoded SOLD OUT Nationwide!

My book didn't come in yesterday! It should be at my house this afternoon (prayerfully)...but I did find Jay's interview with Letterman that came on last night, the night of him selling out nationwide of his new DECODED book.

Jay Z's interviewing style is so funny to me...very witty!


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DECODED...

Everyone knows how I am about Jay Z and anything that has to do with him...I pre-ordered Decoded and I'm impatiently awaiting it's arrival! I came across this video where he speaks on SUCCESS and how people close to you react when THEY (I meant), YOU change.

Please provide feedback...if u agree or disagree! If you have experienced this, how did it affect you and what did you do to please yourself or those involved.

"Most young Kings (Queens lol) get their heads cut off"....Jay describes how the people close to you feel as if you have changed when you reach a certain level of success or in your journey to success. Why stay the same if you are trying to become better?? How can you reach your full potential hanging around people who aren't going in the same direction? Is changing wrong?? My opinion is no, as long as it's for the better and you are being true to yourself. People will have something to say whether you are doing good or bad so why not do YOU...their going to talk anyways. We need to get out of the mindset of wanting to be liked and accepted so much that we will be unhappy on the inside as long as it looks good on the outside. Society has popularized "image" so much that we will do anything to make something look good no matter how faux we really are. People always talk about "keep it real" but the question is who are we keeping it real with? Definitely not ourselves....

Maybe we as individuals need to DECODE ourselves and we can see who we really are and what we believe in then it will be easier to move on and feel good about the CHANGES we make because it's all done in the pursuit of pure happiness. And only those who genuinely care for us will understand.

Take a look at the video and tell me what you think! ENJOY!
(for the ppl who r looking for the video, when you click on the word SUCCESS that is underlined it will direct you to the video)

Quickie....

Just wanted to spread some positive energy this morning! I'm in a really good mood despite the rain...I've been reading this book "Secrets of Six Figured Women" and it has given me so much hope for a change for the future. I just have to take the steps to get where I need to go and step away from the unfamiliar. That's what I've been practicing all of 2010 as seen in past blogs.

Always try to start the day out with positive readings or music...it definitely makes a difference. Now I'm getting back to work...

Spread love...give out what you are seeking to find! "Pay it forward"

Spending Time w/ ME...

Today I took out time for me before I headed to my photography class. Went to Chevy's and had me a couple half price drinks *fist pump* for spending less $$! I had some BBQ wings, half price on those too! We all need to take out time for ourselves...often. Whether it's taking a ride in the car, taking a walk or even taking yourself on a date. You get to know yourself and think about life, goals, things you need to improve or you can just clear your head of all of life's problems for that little bit of time.

I remember when I wouldn't be caught anywhere by myself, I thought that was the most lame thing going somewhere alone. Now I have no problem, certain places you would rather have company but I can say I enjoy going out to eat alone. Hanging out alone builds confidence, helps you make more rational decisions when spending money and it also makes you more approachable. You can network better when alone, some people get intimidated when having to approach a group of people and we have a tendency to be a little more friendlier when we are by ourselves.

So take some time out at least once a month to get to know YOU a little better....you will be surprised what you find out!

Dad knows Best...

"A secret is not a secret once you've told it to someone else"

No matter how hard people try to hold things in it rarely happens. Some people just can't keep secrets for various reasons...they just frankly can't hold water, others just talk so much they don't think about what they are saying and some just like to feel important as if they have the latest juicy gossip. But whatever the reasoning are, if there is something you don't want to get out keep it to YOURSELF, write it down, tell GOD and if it makes you feel better tell him "pssst don't tell this to nooobody" but the minute you repeat it to someone else expect it to come out sooner or later. Or of course, you could kill them after you tell it then surely it will not to get beyond the two of you LOL!

Just one of my random posts, the older I get all of my Dad's words, sayings and teachings become even more valuable. #DADSROCK!

Miss SYDNEY aka "DIVA"....

So yesterday I did a mini photo shoot with Sydney who is the 6yr old niece of my partner Ebony...this was another assignment for my photography class. The assignment was to take photos of things that bring us happiness. So my initial idea was to get a child, wearing adult clothes, with shopping bags. I love children, shopping and dressing up in clothes and accessories. But Miss Sydney turned that little assignment into a full fledged photo shoot! She took direction so well and was serious while having fun! She knew how to continuously pose while the camera while just snapping away. Kids are so innocent and always (I'm sure the parents out there will beg to differ lol) bring happiness and just love to have fun!

As all my friends know I'm always being shy and nervous about just about everything! So Sydney says to me "I'm NEVER shy...NEVER and if I do get nervous I know people are going to say GO SYD GOOO" yup, a 6 yr old "checked me boo" lol But she was right, as long as you listen to the positive people in your corner you can do anything. We all mess up but that's what makes the journeys and lessons worth while :-)

I ended up with 188 photos!!! So trying to find my favorites to post was almost impossible! This little girl has so much personality and spunk it's insane and I also got in a picture of her little brother who was saying "CHEESE CHEESE" throughout the whole night lol After we were all done at 10 pm, Syd says "so are ya'll ready for the fashion show now"??? As all the adults looked at each other half sleep. So keep your eyes open for her...she's ready! Go Syd Gooo!!

Faced Fear!!

I finally faced one of my fears as far as photography goes! I have a terrible fear of approaching people on the street asking them if I can take their pictures. I know when people approach me, it kind of creeps me out. So for an assignment for my photography class we had to get "City Life" images. I saw this lady eating on the bench with her bike, helmet and basket. I thought that was a good depiction of city life....a woman on the moving squeezing in a bite to eat. Of course by the time I got the picture she was done eating. I was on the phone with my good friend Terrelle and she told me "you better go over there and ask her...what's the worst that could happen"!!! I'm going back and forth with her like but what if she curses me out, what if she says no....you see where this is going?? My minds way of procrastinating and trying to get out of doing what needs to be done.

I finally got up the guts to ask her....I just told her my assignment for class was to get some "City Life" photos and I thought she would be a good photograph. I also let her know these would just be for class purposes only. She was very nice about and said YESS! *as the sweat beads rolled down my back*....I just told her she didn't need to do anything in particular, just continue her phone conversation. So the lesson from this is...the mind is very powerful, people are not as mean as we think they are. And if someone says no, that's all they can say and you just accept it, say thank you and move on! After I did that, every other photo I had to get was a breeze.

WHIP MY HAIR....

It's been a while since i've updated my blog! I kind of lost focused and took time to regroup...began photography classes, photos will be updated soon! So as you know I love the Smith's and Willow's new video "Whip My Hair" is amazing from and artist standpoint as well as the energy and the words in the song to give girls encouragement...both young and old. A lot of people talk bad about the "9 yr old" but I think it's cool that she is allowed to express herself and is not kept in the box society keeps everyone in. GO WILLOW!!

Enjoy...

CHANGE...

Good one for everyone who wants to change...including myself. It's not easy but needs to be done!

Will Smith...

In case you haven't realized it I'm always surfing the net for great inspirational, funny and informative videos. I've come across "Will Smith's Words Of Wisdom" and they were so powerful!! We may not all agree with his views but majority of them make a whole lot of sense...they do to me anyways. I'm in the stages of becoming a better me, I've identified my flaws and I'm proactively focusing on ways to make them better. Flaws are what make us unique but I have to improve on the ones that are holding me back from a better ME. I study people who exude success, whether it be reading books, blogs, watching videos ect. I study my parents moves and actions as well! They are the #1 example I look to. When we want to do better we have to surround ourselves with people who are where we would like to be, people we can learn from, individuals who are smarter than us and who give off positive energy PERIOD.

The saying is true "Your NetWork Determines Your NetWorth"

Enjoy....

APPLES....

This was such a good post that Rev Run put up on twitter this morning! Just though I'd share...single ladies don't get discouraged!

Tunnel Vision...

"KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE, DONT GET SIDETRACKED WITH EMOTIONS AND NEGATIVE PEOPLE" ~ Miya Bailey

Persistence...

I FINALLY FIGURED IT OUT!! I always thought this color accent feature was cool and I could never figure it out. Today I was determined...it took me almost two hours! I was going to just call and ask someone but I decided to figure it out on my own. I usually give up on things when I get frustrated but I just kept trying and finally got it. Well youtube was a small instructor but some of their tips did not work for me....

Even though for whatever reason, some of my photos won't open in the Photoshop Elements on my laptop, I know what to do when the small kinks are worked out. I will probably be making all of my pictures with the effect LOL So get ready...I will be overdoing it for a while!

Now I can go to bed...

ARTLove....

I had to post a few pics from my new mentor Ms. Diane's house!! No, this is not from a museum but from her beautiful home. Take a gander and enjoy....

I'll be helping her with some photography of her before and after photos for her remodeling projects. She's a very sweet lady and I went picture crazy but I just posted a few. These were taken from my iPhone I wish I had my real camera that day. She is very experienced in remodeling and interior design.

I saw so many good ideas and she made me want to collect even more art. I love art and always have but I've just started my collection but I will really be on the look out now!!

Stress-Free....

I loved this short poem, blurb whatever you want to call it...this a good way to keep a sane mind when dealing with relationships. A lot of time we have too many expectations and think we can etch everything in stone then end up stressed out. We take the fun out of dating, courting and even marriages....just enjoy every moment! Let things have a natural flow. Somethings work out and some don't but each circumstance has valuable lessons! Not preaching...this is an area I'm actively working on myself.

Wisdom....

Wisdom - Introduction from State Library of New South Wales on Vimeo.

Came across this blog on Diddy's blog site and I thought all the words of wisdom were amazing! Each person had a different view but they all were relevant...

Summer In the City: Dubelyoo

So I just purchased this hot painting from @dubelyoo (follow him on twitter)...I can't wait for it to come in!! I found this from a retweet from Miya Bailey and as soon as I saw it I had to have it. It immediately took me back to my childhood...I was and somewhat still am a tomboy. I loved being outside in the summer playing basketball, football, racing people, riding bikes EVERYWHERE, water balloon/water gun fights, nigga knockers, endless trips to the ice cream truck and never wanting to come in the house. I just love to be free and have fun, I can find fun anywhere I go. Experiencing anything new is thrilling to me.... Then my love for music is depicted in the boom box and it's ironic because I was just talking about how i wanted to find an ol' skool boom box...no particular reason tho lol Being a kid was so much fun and whenever I want to revisit limitless and free living I think back on those days. Check out more of Dubelyoo's artwork at his site which is linked to his name.

Pharrell talks Success w/ No Limits...

As I was browsing on a blog site today, I came across a very inspiring interview. He speaks on how we all have a equal playing field when trying to become successful. No SAT score, no test ect. can hold you back from being what it is you want to be or do. "Feed Your Curiosity" is the best statement I heard, whenever you have an interest...pursue it! You never know where it can lead. It's a pretty lengthy interview but well worth the time. Enjoy!

Getting Organized...

Today I just took a day out for ME! I was supposed to have my bday dinner but I had to really just stop everything and get organized. My room was a total mess, my thoughts and everything were a mess because your environment has a big influence on your thought process. Between having clothes that hadn't been washed in over a month all over the floor, magazines, books, papers ect. all over the place I had to just regroup. I'm always ripping and running here and there and after talking with my girl Ezee her words on needing to unplug yourself often to gain focus...I did just that! THis pic is just one of MANY piles that were all over my floor. I was so inspired by something my Dad said as he walked by. I told him I was cleaning and he said "Hmm...I guess it's gets worst before it gets better" and I thought that was so good because it is so true! Whenever we are doing things the change is always uncomfortable and kind of hard to deal with but if you PUSH through it...things will get better. It's funny how the book PUSH becomes the focal point because I really didn't set this pile up this is exactly how things looked when my Dad walked by and I said let me take a pic of this and blog. So I have gotten rid of so much junk in here, got a load of clothes in and now I'm just preparing for my full work week. I feel very calm and at ease. This is definitely a very #random post...

Pray Until Something Happens....

Seven...Seven!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!! Today I turn 27 and I am so blessed to see another year and able to celebrate it with the same loved ones from last year plus NEW ones. The best part is I feel like this is only my 17th bday!! "Age ain't nothing but a number" it's all in how you feel and I feel amazingly blessed :-)

My Yellow Book...

Beginning to jot down thoughts, ideas and burdens to get a clear vision of where I'm headed. Talking to my good girlfriend Ebony, she gave me this idea to write down everything no matter how big or small. We are putting some things together so keep a look out for "Me and My Girlfriends"!! Follow the blog as well....www.memygirlfriends.blogspot.com

iPhone!!!

I'm excited!!! My iPhone came in the mail yesterday and so far I love it! I hear people have been sleeping outside the Apple stores to make their purchases this morning. I guess that pre-sale did pay off even though it took almost 3 hours due to system glitches from the overload of orders. I've been a blackberry advocate for years and I'm going to miss it but it's time for change :-) Let's just pray this at&t service isn't as bad as people say....

Controlling Emotions VS. Being A Pushover

My mind doing what it does best...run wild, I thought about the difference between controlling your emotions and being a pushover. It's really hard when you feel you are being taken advantage of, tested or disrespected but you don't have the desire to jump off the deep end. So I posed the question on twitter and I got two interesting responses...

Lillian: its a fine line..because people tend to mistake your control 4 weakness which for some reason gives them a green light to push your buttons. As long as you're comfortable with who you are, people trying to push u to the limit won't make u question your strength or maturity but...rather prove that they have an issue, not you.

DeJonte: a pushover~ is sumone easily defeated...your emotions such as joy, sorrow, fear, love, hate are how YOU feel.. NO ONE can change that!

I thought those were a couple good ways to look at it...there is nothing wrong with being a nice person, being vulnerable (which exudes strength) and not taking everything personal. But when you feel you have had enough, it is up to you to walk away and do it with pride knowing you did everything you could in the situation and you still have your dignity because all a person can do is respect someone for moving away from something that isn't making them happy or could potentially take them out of character.