I arrived Friday morning around 4am and what did I do...go out of course. The anxiety of getting there mixed with the strip being all lit up I was ready to party.
My girls and I made a quick run to McDonalds which would be the late night eating spot every night. I told them to not feel bad about eating McDonalds this late because technically it was breakfast time on the east coast. I changed my clothes and I went over to MGM Grand just to walk around and see what was up.
My girls had been to Studio 54 earlier in the night and had gotten in to VIP thanks to Vince Young and his entourage. A little sad I missed out on that but more was yet to come.
Friday I was up and out by 11am. I hit the strip early to see what parties were going on that night and what I could get in for free or discounted. I ended up getting on the RSVP list for Pure but that night we came close but ended up some place different. For lunch I went to the buffet at Ceasar's at it wasn't that great. I think the best buffets in Las Vegas are at the Bellagio and Aladdin. Later that afternoon I got up with one of my girls from Carolina and we had a few frozen drinks and hit the tables. I spotted the Office Spouse and his crew...or I should say he spotted me...cause surely if he had kept on walking I wouldn't have noticed...that was the only sighting all weekend.
So the plan on Friday was to go to the So So Def party at Aladdin and if that wasn't popping head over to Pure. We get to Aladdin and there is a lounge in the middle of the casino and we go in there and chill for a minute. End up chilling with Chingy and his entourage. The So So Def party was wack, maybe because it was early, but we left and were headed over to Pure. Just as we were making our way to Pure a guy stops us and offers us free passes to Light. Light is one of my absolute favorite clubs in Vegas because they have 4 poles which allows a woman to let her inner stripper girl out. So we totally changed plans and headed over to Light. It was a mob scene outside of the club because Sprite was doing a promotional party for LeBron James and the release of his 3 commercials that users are supposed to vote on. Somehow we hooked up with some random white chick who seemed to know everyone at the door and we were in the club by 10:30pm. Well the Sprite party was not over and in fact was just getting started so we got up close and personal with LeBron...so close I could count the pimples on his face...he needs Proactive. We partied so hard that my feet have never, ever, ever hurt so bad.
The line to get a cab back to the hotel was ridiculous...so we chose to walk with no shoes on...at first. We got maybe a block away and a random cabby picked us up. It was the end of us his shift but he saw us struggling and picked us up. The cab ride was only $5 but we gave him $20 just because we were so thankful.
Saturday I was up and out early again, back on the strip people watching and trying to secure another party for our last night in Vegas. I got so much random free stuff on the strip...from LeBron t-shirts to a special poker chip that would get me and the girls in to a party at the Empire Ballroom for free to magazines and CD's. We went shopping, or in my case window shopping cause y'all know I hate shopping and celebrity watching. There were so many celebrities every where and they were just mixed in with us regular folks. There were honestly too many celebrities to name them all.
Saturday night we are looking cute, of course, as we waited in line to get in to LeBron's party at the Empire Ballroom. After waiting for an hour, which was an hour later than the get in free poker chip was supposed to work, someone comes out and makes an announcement that they are having sound problems but they would still honor the chip. Now there was a VIP line where people paid $150+ for advanced tickets and $300+ for VIP. I might have had to wait in line but those VIP's looked stupid paying for the same party I was getting in to for free. We partied in line and had a good time laughing, talking and of course drinking. I had never been to the Empire Ballroom before and it is actually a nice venue. We paid a security guard $20 each and was able to go in and out of the VIP area at our leisure.
It wouldn't be Vegas if someone didn't get drunk off their ass and for once that person was not me. When one of my girls came over and took a shot of a dark liquor and a light liquor me and the guys I were talking to gave each other the "she's going to be spending the evening in the bathroom" look and we were right. But her getting sick didn't ruin the night just added to the experience. When the vomiting was under control we sent her back to the casino with some random guy in a Ferrari...I know, sounds dangerous but it worked...and we stayed and partied for another hour or so.
The trip went by so fast it was like a blur but honestly I couldn't have stayed another day. I got a terrible cold and I needed a day at home just to recover before I went back to work. Las Vegas you can only take in small doses because too many days in Sin City might kill you.
All in all it was a great weekend. I met some really nice guys no matter where I was but of course no one I would keep in touch with. Saw some people I hadn't seen since graduating from school. And all in all it was exactly what I expected. It was the most black people I have ever seen in one place and that is saying a lot since I have been to Essence Fest and Bayou Classic in New Orleans as well as lived in one of the blackest cities in the USA...Atlanta. It was also women dressed like they were going to the club even though it was 1 in the afternoon. There were the GQ guys and the thug guys and just a little bit of everything in between.
But if you weren't paying attention 1st night I paid nothing to party and second night I paid nothing initially to party and then $20 to the bouncer. So I partied my ass off in Las Vegas for $20. I am so glad I didn't buy tickets in advance for any of the parties that were being advertised on the internet.
I will be going to New Orleans. I'm already making plans. I hope the NBA does All Star weekend in Vegas again, and soon before my days of travelling across country to party my ass off are over.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Friday, February 23, 2007
Birthday Wish
I can't believe my birthday is a week away. As usual I don't have anything planned. But I did make sure to take the day off so if all I want to do is sleep the day away I can.
Y'all know me...I don't want or ask for a lot. If I get something I'm always appreciative. If I don't get anything, I'm still happy to be alive and live to see another year.
But if you are wondering what to get the birthday girl I can only think of three things I want:
1. A watch
I'm tired of not knowing what time it is when I'm on the subway and I can't get the time on my cell phone because there is no service underground.
2. Earrings
I seriously need some gold earrings. If I don't start wearing some earrings again my upper holes will close. I can only wear gold earrings cause I'm allergic to everything else.
3. Digital Camera
I feel like I've missed out on capturing so many moments in my life. So despite the fact that I really do hate taking pictures I need to keep record of some of my memories.
Special request of my ATL friends, if y'all are so inclined, I would really LOVE some bottles of that wine Smoochie had at our Turkey Day dinner. And one of those nice wine openers so I don't have to sneak in to Mz. B's crib and steal hers ;)
If nothing else be sure to wish me Happy Bday on my bday.
Y'all know me...I don't want or ask for a lot. If I get something I'm always appreciative. If I don't get anything, I'm still happy to be alive and live to see another year.
But if you are wondering what to get the birthday girl I can only think of three things I want:
1. A watch
I'm tired of not knowing what time it is when I'm on the subway and I can't get the time on my cell phone because there is no service underground.
2. Earrings
I seriously need some gold earrings. If I don't start wearing some earrings again my upper holes will close. I can only wear gold earrings cause I'm allergic to everything else.
3. Digital Camera
I feel like I've missed out on capturing so many moments in my life. So despite the fact that I really do hate taking pictures I need to keep record of some of my memories.
Special request of my ATL friends, if y'all are so inclined, I would really LOVE some bottles of that wine Smoochie had at our Turkey Day dinner. And one of those nice wine openers so I don't have to sneak in to Mz. B's crib and steal hers ;)
If nothing else be sure to wish me Happy Bday on my bday.
Monday, February 19, 2007
I MUST Love This Game
Commissioner David Stern...if you are reading this...no one loves this game more than I do. For months I have been so hyped about going to Las Vegas for NBA All-Star weekend. And with one snow storm my dreams were about to be snowed under.
The original plan was to fly out to Vegas on Valentine's Day to get there before the crowds and celebrate loving me on the day of love. Thanks to the snow storm that hit NYC on V-day eve my plans were blown to hell.
Valentine's morning I was checking the status of my flight online every 10 minutes. My flight was at 12:29 and I held out until 11:00am before I finally left for the airport. Just as I pulled up to Laguardia my cell phone rings. It's an automated message from American telling me my flight was cancelled. Why didn't they call me 30 minutes ago? I could have stayed home and been on the internet and the phone figuring out how to fix my travel plans.
I stayed at the airport for 3 more hours trying to figure out how to get out on a flight that day or the next day. Everything was a bust. No flights available until Saturday night. The airline refunded my ticket and the hotel I was staying at refunded my one night stay. I sadly took the bus home, because the cab line was too long at the airport and I was ready to unpack and go back to my daily grind.
But thanks to my indescribable office spouse, he would not let me give up. There just has to be a way.
He was able to catch a flight out of Newark on Continental to Los Angeles and was going to drive with his boys to Vegas. He told me if I could get to LA I could ride with his boys to Vegas. So there was still hope.
I got home at 3pm and was on the phone and the internet for 4 hours trying to figure out how to get to L.A. or Las Vegas. Around 7:30pm a solution finally came and my Vegas adventure was about to begin. Get to Las Vegas or die trying...lol...well not die but try my hardest.
I caught a 10pm Amtrak train to BWI airport. I got to the airport around 1am and had to sleep on a bench in the airport. Luckily I brought my neck pillow with me and there were other stranded passengers in the airport so the airline gave us sodas, snacks, pillows and blankets (the skinny airline kind). By 5am I was in line and checking my bag on Southwest to LAX. My flight was supposed to leave at 9:30am with a layover in Phoenix and I would land in LA at 2:45pm. Due to flight delays I got bumped to an earlier non-stop flight that was departing at 9am. I was supposed to land in LA at 12 noon but actually landed at 11:30am. So things were starting to look up.
I caught a shuttle to the apartment of my office spouse's friend in Pasadena. Of course the office spouse (and everyone else) thinks I'm crazy on the regular but even more crazy for travelling by plane, train and automobile to get to Vegas. I had been on the go since 7:30am on Wednesday morning and it was now 1:30 Thursday afternoon or 4:30 for y'all east coast folks. The office spouse said it was time for me to chill and relax after all I went through. So we went and got some lunch and sat outside and enjoyed the weather. Eating lunch outside, in the sun, in the middle of February. ONLY on the west coast. After lunch I took a shower, handled some business on the internet and took a nap. My journey was almost complete.
By about 11:30pm (2:30am EST) we were on the road to Vegas. I arrived at the casino I was staying at about 4am and that is when the real adventure began.
I think this blog is long enough so you'll have to wait for part two. But I gotta close with some thank you's and shout outs.
Commissioner Stern - after reading my adventure if this does not prove that I love this game I don't know what else does. For my effort I should get tickets to all the NBA All-Star festivities in New Orleans next year.
Office Spouse - What would I do without you? This weekend would have never been able to go down without you.
MC - thanks for letting me crash on the Wash U couch and for letting me get comfortable in your crib like it was my own home.
Story - Next time you are on the right coast I promise to take you anywhere you want to go.
All the people I met on the train, in the airports, on the planes - thanks for adding to the adventure. Everyone has a story to tell and y'all each added to mine (although too many side tales to add to this blog).
The original plan was to fly out to Vegas on Valentine's Day to get there before the crowds and celebrate loving me on the day of love. Thanks to the snow storm that hit NYC on V-day eve my plans were blown to hell.
Valentine's morning I was checking the status of my flight online every 10 minutes. My flight was at 12:29 and I held out until 11:00am before I finally left for the airport. Just as I pulled up to Laguardia my cell phone rings. It's an automated message from American telling me my flight was cancelled. Why didn't they call me 30 minutes ago? I could have stayed home and been on the internet and the phone figuring out how to fix my travel plans.
I stayed at the airport for 3 more hours trying to figure out how to get out on a flight that day or the next day. Everything was a bust. No flights available until Saturday night. The airline refunded my ticket and the hotel I was staying at refunded my one night stay. I sadly took the bus home, because the cab line was too long at the airport and I was ready to unpack and go back to my daily grind.
But thanks to my indescribable office spouse, he would not let me give up. There just has to be a way.
He was able to catch a flight out of Newark on Continental to Los Angeles and was going to drive with his boys to Vegas. He told me if I could get to LA I could ride with his boys to Vegas. So there was still hope.
I got home at 3pm and was on the phone and the internet for 4 hours trying to figure out how to get to L.A. or Las Vegas. Around 7:30pm a solution finally came and my Vegas adventure was about to begin. Get to Las Vegas or die trying...lol...well not die but try my hardest.
I caught a 10pm Amtrak train to BWI airport. I got to the airport around 1am and had to sleep on a bench in the airport. Luckily I brought my neck pillow with me and there were other stranded passengers in the airport so the airline gave us sodas, snacks, pillows and blankets (the skinny airline kind). By 5am I was in line and checking my bag on Southwest to LAX. My flight was supposed to leave at 9:30am with a layover in Phoenix and I would land in LA at 2:45pm. Due to flight delays I got bumped to an earlier non-stop flight that was departing at 9am. I was supposed to land in LA at 12 noon but actually landed at 11:30am. So things were starting to look up.
I caught a shuttle to the apartment of my office spouse's friend in Pasadena. Of course the office spouse (and everyone else) thinks I'm crazy on the regular but even more crazy for travelling by plane, train and automobile to get to Vegas. I had been on the go since 7:30am on Wednesday morning and it was now 1:30 Thursday afternoon or 4:30 for y'all east coast folks. The office spouse said it was time for me to chill and relax after all I went through. So we went and got some lunch and sat outside and enjoyed the weather. Eating lunch outside, in the sun, in the middle of February. ONLY on the west coast. After lunch I took a shower, handled some business on the internet and took a nap. My journey was almost complete.
By about 11:30pm (2:30am EST) we were on the road to Vegas. I arrived at the casino I was staying at about 4am and that is when the real adventure began.
I think this blog is long enough so you'll have to wait for part two. But I gotta close with some thank you's and shout outs.
Commissioner Stern - after reading my adventure if this does not prove that I love this game I don't know what else does. For my effort I should get tickets to all the NBA All-Star festivities in New Orleans next year.
Office Spouse - What would I do without you? This weekend would have never been able to go down without you.
MC - thanks for letting me crash on the Wash U couch and for letting me get comfortable in your crib like it was my own home.
Story - Next time you are on the right coast I promise to take you anywhere you want to go.
All the people I met on the train, in the airports, on the planes - thanks for adding to the adventure. Everyone has a story to tell and y'all each added to mine (although too many side tales to add to this blog).
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Second Date
First dates are easy to come by. You go on a date and either you click or you don't. But because first dates are so easy to come by, second dates are a little harder to have.
I don't take any potential suitor seriously until we have been on a second date. But how many dates does it take for you to know if you are feeling someone?
I'm giving this internet dating thing another try because conventional dating, whatever that means, has not worked for me. I met this really nice guy and we have a lot of similar interests but our schedules, location and preferred modes of communication pose a serious challenge to getting to know each other.
I met him through a Craig's List ad and after our first date he said he would take the ad down. I advised him against that. I said you never know who you will meet and you should not put all your eggs in one basket. But after our second date he reposted his ad. Part of me wanted to be offended but a larger part of me really didn't care that deeply. But I sent him an email teasing him about his repost and I must have hit a nerve. It was like he felt guilty about posting and he went on and on about how he would like to get to know me better if I would only make the time.
He's a nice guy...a great guy...just not sure if he is great for me. We have a good time when we do hang out but I don't feel that desire to make time. You know that feeling that no matter how busy your schedule is you are going to find time to see that person. I don't have that feeling. But how do you tell someone, in a nice way, I think you are cool but I don't see this going anywhere and yet still remain cool with the person? Oh well, I guess it's back to the Craig's List ads for me.
I don't take any potential suitor seriously until we have been on a second date. But how many dates does it take for you to know if you are feeling someone?
I'm giving this internet dating thing another try because conventional dating, whatever that means, has not worked for me. I met this really nice guy and we have a lot of similar interests but our schedules, location and preferred modes of communication pose a serious challenge to getting to know each other.
I met him through a Craig's List ad and after our first date he said he would take the ad down. I advised him against that. I said you never know who you will meet and you should not put all your eggs in one basket. But after our second date he reposted his ad. Part of me wanted to be offended but a larger part of me really didn't care that deeply. But I sent him an email teasing him about his repost and I must have hit a nerve. It was like he felt guilty about posting and he went on and on about how he would like to get to know me better if I would only make the time.
He's a nice guy...a great guy...just not sure if he is great for me. We have a good time when we do hang out but I don't feel that desire to make time. You know that feeling that no matter how busy your schedule is you are going to find time to see that person. I don't have that feeling. But how do you tell someone, in a nice way, I think you are cool but I don't see this going anywhere and yet still remain cool with the person? Oh well, I guess it's back to the Craig's List ads for me.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
First Speed Dating Event
My new side hustle for 2007 is hosting speed dating events around Manhattan for Cupid.com.
I held my first event on Monday at this great location called Fashion 40 Lounge. There were 27 people, 14 women and 13 guys. It was a good looking group and pretty diverse although still majority white. But everyone had a really good time and the venue was happy with the money they made from the bar. I already have 3 more events booked for the coming months with Fashion 40 so I think I'm off to a great start.
I know some of you are like why in the hell would you sign up to do something like this and what kind of people speed date? Well I'll ask the last question first. Busy professionals are the people that sign up for speed dating. They are tired of the bar/club scene and they have busy and demanding careers that doesn't leave much time to find a mate and date. So with speed dating they can meet potential dates for about the same price they would spend going seeking at a bar or club. And I'm talking good looking people with really good jobs.
So why did I decide to do it? Hosting speed dating events totally fits with my personality. And anyone who read my blog when I worked for the AJC knows dating, relationships and sex is a topic I like to talk about. Helping people meet people is right up my alley.
My first year in NYC was all about adjusting and getting settled but not really about going out and dating. Now I have a very good excuse for going out and I'm getting to know a lot of owners and managers at various venues throughout the city. I'm a people person and I get to meet so many people doing this. And even though I am hosting I have gotten hit on a few times which falls in line with me wanting to date more in 2007.
Last but definitely not least is I get to have fun and make a little money on the side. When I say little I mean I'll never be able to quit my job and do this full time. This side hustle is going to help me to achieve one of my 2007 resolutions because chump change does add up.
If I wasn't an event coordinator I would have probably attended a speed dating event just for fun. I'm pretty open to trying new things. And we all know that if what you have been doing in the past has not worked then it's time to do something different.
Anyone in NYC wants to give speed dating a try, let me know...I promise to give you a very nice discount and on some occassions I might be able to get you in for free.
I held my first event on Monday at this great location called Fashion 40 Lounge. There were 27 people, 14 women and 13 guys. It was a good looking group and pretty diverse although still majority white. But everyone had a really good time and the venue was happy with the money they made from the bar. I already have 3 more events booked for the coming months with Fashion 40 so I think I'm off to a great start.
I know some of you are like why in the hell would you sign up to do something like this and what kind of people speed date? Well I'll ask the last question first. Busy professionals are the people that sign up for speed dating. They are tired of the bar/club scene and they have busy and demanding careers that doesn't leave much time to find a mate and date. So with speed dating they can meet potential dates for about the same price they would spend going seeking at a bar or club. And I'm talking good looking people with really good jobs.
So why did I decide to do it? Hosting speed dating events totally fits with my personality. And anyone who read my blog when I worked for the AJC knows dating, relationships and sex is a topic I like to talk about. Helping people meet people is right up my alley.
My first year in NYC was all about adjusting and getting settled but not really about going out and dating. Now I have a very good excuse for going out and I'm getting to know a lot of owners and managers at various venues throughout the city. I'm a people person and I get to meet so many people doing this. And even though I am hosting I have gotten hit on a few times which falls in line with me wanting to date more in 2007.
Last but definitely not least is I get to have fun and make a little money on the side. When I say little I mean I'll never be able to quit my job and do this full time. This side hustle is going to help me to achieve one of my 2007 resolutions because chump change does add up.
If I wasn't an event coordinator I would have probably attended a speed dating event just for fun. I'm pretty open to trying new things. And we all know that if what you have been doing in the past has not worked then it's time to do something different.
Anyone in NYC wants to give speed dating a try, let me know...I promise to give you a very nice discount and on some occassions I might be able to get you in for free.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Just To Get By
Excuse me y'all. I just gotta take a moment out to rant about something that is on my mind and on my heart.
I'm tired y'all...just tired. I'm tired of this race called life. Cause no matter how hard you work to get ahead it just seems like you never really get ahead.
I went to college...why...because I was always told/taught that going to college is how you become successful. And I got a degree...for what? Cause I was supposed to and they say you'll make more money. Whatever, I'll be paying student loans for as long as I'll be paying a mortgage for that degree that is supposedly going to make me successful and help me to make more money.
All my life I've been working to get ahead so I could help my family and I'm still not in a position to do that. So what's the point? Should I get on welfare and section 8 housing so I can coast through life not giving a shit. Poor and lower income folks may not have a lot but they get by...I work every day and I'm still just getting by so who really has the right plan. I'm tired of busting ass to just get by.
I don't want to be rich. By no means is obtaining large amounts of money my goal. Cause like Biggie said, more money, more problems. I have always said I just want to get to a position of comfort. So when I want to go on vacation I can just go. When my family needs some financial help, I don't even have to think twice. Where every month I'm not "figuring out" how to pay the bills.
I'm a self proclaimed hustler...don't get me wrong. Everyone, even folks with money, hustle. But when you hustling for survivial even the hustler can get tired of having to hustle. Anyone feeling me on this?
I'm tired y'all...just tired. I'm tired of this race called life. Cause no matter how hard you work to get ahead it just seems like you never really get ahead.
I went to college...why...because I was always told/taught that going to college is how you become successful. And I got a degree...for what? Cause I was supposed to and they say you'll make more money. Whatever, I'll be paying student loans for as long as I'll be paying a mortgage for that degree that is supposedly going to make me successful and help me to make more money.
All my life I've been working to get ahead so I could help my family and I'm still not in a position to do that. So what's the point? Should I get on welfare and section 8 housing so I can coast through life not giving a shit. Poor and lower income folks may not have a lot but they get by...I work every day and I'm still just getting by so who really has the right plan. I'm tired of busting ass to just get by.
I don't want to be rich. By no means is obtaining large amounts of money my goal. Cause like Biggie said, more money, more problems. I have always said I just want to get to a position of comfort. So when I want to go on vacation I can just go. When my family needs some financial help, I don't even have to think twice. Where every month I'm not "figuring out" how to pay the bills.
I'm a self proclaimed hustler...don't get me wrong. Everyone, even folks with money, hustle. But when you hustling for survivial even the hustler can get tired of having to hustle. Anyone feeling me on this?
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Fresh Direct
The last place anyone would ever expect to find me is a grocery store. I live around the corner from a grocery store. Walk past the grocery twice a day, every single day. But I could literally count the number of times I have actually been in that grocery store. And with Fresh Direct I don't EVER have to go grocery shopping again.
I don't know what it is about grocery stores but every time I step foot in one I feel like I'm Alice in Wonderland. I never know where anything is and even if I have a grocery list to get myself organized I'll end up going down the same aisles two or three times because I didn't realize several items on my list were in the same aisle. Whenever I have gone grocery shopping I spent HOURS in the store and bought way more than I intended to buy.
But now I buy my groceries online and life could not be better.
A year ago if someone had told me I would be buying my groceries online I would have laughed at them. I had this perception of online grocery shopping as being lazy, costly and just boogie. Why should I pay someone to get my groceries? But my perception was all wrong.
Online grocery shopping is not lazy but efficient. I just did a time management webinar today and one of the time saving tips was to buy your groceries online. You won't waste time "window" shopping and picking up unnecessary items.
Shopping online for groceries costs the same and sometimes even less. At least with Fresh Direct they have sales all the time and every week there are "President's Picks" in which the company president picks like 10-20 items to charge 50% off...I have caught specials on shrimp, crab cakes, meat, already cooked meals, etc. And delivery is only $5. So you mean all I have to do is pay someone $5 to pick up all my groceries and deliver them to my door as opposed to lugging them myself? The service alone is worth more than $5. Fresh Direct also has incentives for newbies like $25 off your first two orders. So for the last few months I have just been signing up using different email addresses so I can get the discount. The minimum order is $40. I can get $40 of food for $15 plus delivery. That sounds like free food to me and I like getting free stuff...especially food.
Now some of my friends do tease me and say that I have gotten boogie...that I think I'm too good for the grocery store. On the contrary, I'm just all about saving time because as we all know time is money. So instead of spending hours in the grocery store I could be doing something productive or heaven forbid doing something fun.
I like online grocery shopping so much I'm thinking about trying other online grocery stores like Amazon and yourgrocer.com. Now you'll have to excuse me as I have some groceries to put away.
This email was inspired by yet another delivery straight to my door from Fresh Direct.
I don't know what it is about grocery stores but every time I step foot in one I feel like I'm Alice in Wonderland. I never know where anything is and even if I have a grocery list to get myself organized I'll end up going down the same aisles two or three times because I didn't realize several items on my list were in the same aisle. Whenever I have gone grocery shopping I spent HOURS in the store and bought way more than I intended to buy.
But now I buy my groceries online and life could not be better.
A year ago if someone had told me I would be buying my groceries online I would have laughed at them. I had this perception of online grocery shopping as being lazy, costly and just boogie. Why should I pay someone to get my groceries? But my perception was all wrong.
Online grocery shopping is not lazy but efficient. I just did a time management webinar today and one of the time saving tips was to buy your groceries online. You won't waste time "window" shopping and picking up unnecessary items.
Shopping online for groceries costs the same and sometimes even less. At least with Fresh Direct they have sales all the time and every week there are "President's Picks" in which the company president picks like 10-20 items to charge 50% off...I have caught specials on shrimp, crab cakes, meat, already cooked meals, etc. And delivery is only $5. So you mean all I have to do is pay someone $5 to pick up all my groceries and deliver them to my door as opposed to lugging them myself? The service alone is worth more than $5. Fresh Direct also has incentives for newbies like $25 off your first two orders. So for the last few months I have just been signing up using different email addresses so I can get the discount. The minimum order is $40. I can get $40 of food for $15 plus delivery. That sounds like free food to me and I like getting free stuff...especially food.
Now some of my friends do tease me and say that I have gotten boogie...that I think I'm too good for the grocery store. On the contrary, I'm just all about saving time because as we all know time is money. So instead of spending hours in the grocery store I could be doing something productive or heaven forbid doing something fun.
I like online grocery shopping so much I'm thinking about trying other online grocery stores like Amazon and yourgrocer.com. Now you'll have to excuse me as I have some groceries to put away.
This email was inspired by yet another delivery straight to my door from Fresh Direct.
Friday, December 22, 2006
The Gift That Keeps On Giving
I don't watch Saturday Night Live but I have to admit this is funny and TRUE. Can I have one of these for every special occassion? Christmas, Birthday...hell, can I have this for no real reason at all except that I want it?
Video (or if you can't see it...the You Tube link http://www.youtube.com/v/yd3i4gA_QJY)
Lyrics to "Special Christmas Box" (so you can sing along)
Hey Girl, I got something real important to give you
So just sit down and listen
Girl you know we’ve been together such a long. long time
(such a long time)
And now I’m ready to lay it on the line
Well, you know it’s Christmas and my heart is open wide
Gonna give you something so you know what’s on my mind
(what’s on my mind)
A gift real special so take off the top
Take a look inside, it’s my dick in a box
(it’s in the box)
Not gonna get you a diamond ring
That sort of gift don’t mean anything
Not gonna get you a fancy car
Girl you gotta know you’re my shining star
Not gonna get you a house in the hills
A girl like you needs something real
I want to get you something from the heart
(something special girl)
(Chorus)
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
See I’m wise enough to know
When a gift needs giving
And I got just the one
Something to show you that you are second to none
To all the fellas out there
With ladies to impress
It’s easy to do just follow these steps
1. Cut a hole in a box
2. Put your junk in that box
3. Make her open the box
And that’s the way you do it.
(Chorus)
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
Christmas
Dick in a box
Chanukah
Dick in a box
Kwanzaa
A dick in a box
Every single holiday a dick in a box
Over at your parents house a dick in a box
Mid day at the grocery store a dick in a box
Backstage at the CMA's a dick in a box
The uncensored video courtesy of NBC
Video (or if you can't see it...the You Tube link http://www.youtube.com/v/yd3i4gA_QJY)
Lyrics to "Special Christmas Box" (so you can sing along)
Hey Girl, I got something real important to give you
So just sit down and listen
Girl you know we’ve been together such a long. long time
(such a long time)
And now I’m ready to lay it on the line
Well, you know it’s Christmas and my heart is open wide
Gonna give you something so you know what’s on my mind
(what’s on my mind)
A gift real special so take off the top
Take a look inside, it’s my dick in a box
(it’s in the box)
Not gonna get you a diamond ring
That sort of gift don’t mean anything
Not gonna get you a fancy car
Girl you gotta know you’re my shining star
Not gonna get you a house in the hills
A girl like you needs something real
I want to get you something from the heart
(something special girl)
(Chorus)
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
See I’m wise enough to know
When a gift needs giving
And I got just the one
Something to show you that you are second to none
To all the fellas out there
With ladies to impress
It’s easy to do just follow these steps
1. Cut a hole in a box
2. Put your junk in that box
3. Make her open the box
And that’s the way you do it.
(Chorus)
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
It’s my dick in a box
My dick in a box, girl
Christmas
Dick in a box
Chanukah
Dick in a box
Kwanzaa
A dick in a box
Every single holiday a dick in a box
Over at your parents house a dick in a box
Mid day at the grocery store a dick in a box
Backstage at the CMA's a dick in a box
The uncensored video courtesy of NBC
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Goals for 2007
It's that time of year again when we reflect on the past year and hope the new year will be an even better year. I'm not in to making new year's resolutions that are so far fetched that I have a better chance of winning the lottery than achieving my resolutions. But I'm all about setting goals for yourself and working towards attaining those. Resolution, goal, whatever you call it, I always try to make sure it is something that is within my reach. So as always I'm keeping them short, simple and to the point.
1. Pay off some credit cards
This is on my list every year and in 2006 I didn't do too bad. I paid off some of those store charge cards. Now it's time to hit some of those major credit cards.
2. Get back in shape
Notice I said get back in shape and not lose weight. There is a difference. I think people focus on the wrong thing when the focus is on just the weight. Having the surgeries and not being able to dance I don't feel like myself. So I want to get back in to taking dance classes, particularly salsa. If I lose weight in the process, great, but I'm not worried about my weight.
3. Keep on cooking
I am ending this year on a bit of a cooking kick and I hope to expand upon that. I have no confidence in my cooking. I think it's okay enough for me to eat and not starve but not palettable enough to be shared. Aristocrates has unwillingly been my guinea pig. He says the food I have made tastes fine and he hasn't gotten sick off of anything I have made...yet. And he would never miss out on the chance to use my bad cooking as a joke, so since he hasn't picked on my cooking I guess he's telling the truth when he says it's fine. If anyone knows of any simple cookbooks and a list of things all cooks should have (like spices to always have, etc.) I'm open to suggestions.
And there you have it...my goals for 2007.
What are your goals for the new year? What are some things you would like to accomplish in the first 3 months, 6 months and by the end of 2007?
1. Pay off some credit cards
This is on my list every year and in 2006 I didn't do too bad. I paid off some of those store charge cards. Now it's time to hit some of those major credit cards.
2. Get back in shape
Notice I said get back in shape and not lose weight. There is a difference. I think people focus on the wrong thing when the focus is on just the weight. Having the surgeries and not being able to dance I don't feel like myself. So I want to get back in to taking dance classes, particularly salsa. If I lose weight in the process, great, but I'm not worried about my weight.
3. Keep on cooking
I am ending this year on a bit of a cooking kick and I hope to expand upon that. I have no confidence in my cooking. I think it's okay enough for me to eat and not starve but not palettable enough to be shared. Aristocrates has unwillingly been my guinea pig. He says the food I have made tastes fine and he hasn't gotten sick off of anything I have made...yet. And he would never miss out on the chance to use my bad cooking as a joke, so since he hasn't picked on my cooking I guess he's telling the truth when he says it's fine. If anyone knows of any simple cookbooks and a list of things all cooks should have (like spices to always have, etc.) I'm open to suggestions.
And there you have it...my goals for 2007.
What are your goals for the new year? What are some things you would like to accomplish in the first 3 months, 6 months and by the end of 2007?
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Movie Critic
I haven't blogged in awhile. Can't say much has really been happening. But I have just seen two movies this week that have me compelled to blog.
First, if you are looking to rent a DVD I IMPLORE you to rent "American Blackout." Now this one you might have a hard time finding at your neighborhood Blockbuster but Netflix and Blockbuster online both have it. It's a documentary that follows the effors of Georgia Congresswoman Cynthia McKinniey to expose the disenfranchisement of black voters going back to the 2000 election. I'm not the most political person. I don't have any hard, fast political agendas. But wrong is wrong and what our country does to people who try to expose truth will have you thinking we are back in the days of the Jim Crow south.
Next, if you are looking for a movie to see with the family on X-mas day I strongly suggest you buy your tickets in advance to see "Dreamgirls." I know it's one of the most commercially hyped movies right now and every show on X-mas day is going to be sold out but take my word for it, it is worth the watch. I don't think Beyonce deserved the Golden Globe nomination that she received but Jennifer Hudson will blow you away. If you walk out of the movie with your eyes not even a little bit teary, something is the hell wrong with you.
And that's all for now from the movieaholic. I hopefully will post again before X-mas day but if I don't get a chance to Happy Holidays to you and yours and as always I thank you for your love and your support through the years as you follow me on my many misadventures through this journey called life.
First, if you are looking to rent a DVD I IMPLORE you to rent "American Blackout." Now this one you might have a hard time finding at your neighborhood Blockbuster but Netflix and Blockbuster online both have it. It's a documentary that follows the effors of Georgia Congresswoman Cynthia McKinniey to expose the disenfranchisement of black voters going back to the 2000 election. I'm not the most political person. I don't have any hard, fast political agendas. But wrong is wrong and what our country does to people who try to expose truth will have you thinking we are back in the days of the Jim Crow south.
Next, if you are looking for a movie to see with the family on X-mas day I strongly suggest you buy your tickets in advance to see "Dreamgirls." I know it's one of the most commercially hyped movies right now and every show on X-mas day is going to be sold out but take my word for it, it is worth the watch. I don't think Beyonce deserved the Golden Globe nomination that she received but Jennifer Hudson will blow you away. If you walk out of the movie with your eyes not even a little bit teary, something is the hell wrong with you.
And that's all for now from the movieaholic. I hopefully will post again before X-mas day but if I don't get a chance to Happy Holidays to you and yours and as always I thank you for your love and your support through the years as you follow me on my many misadventures through this journey called life.
Monday, December 04, 2006
2007 Shopping List
Most people post Christmas wish lists but given that I don't expect anyone to buy me -ish. It is a wish list of things I will end up buying for myself some time in the new year. Of course I always ask for the same "fantasy" thing every year...a sexy black man with just a santa hat on his head and red bow around his neck to be under my tree X-mas morning. One of these years Santa is going to grant my wish.
But here's my real list:
- Canon Power Shot Digital Camera
It's about time I stop avoiding the camera and capture the moments of my life. I've had some great ones.
- Fry Daddy
This was suggested to me since I'm prone to burning myself yet I want to be able to fry some chicken.
- Watch
If I don't have my cell phone I never know what time it is. Adults wear watches and don't just rely on their cell phones. It's time I join the adult ranks.
- Earrings
I'm like a little kid with earrings. I'm so prone to losing them. So I need at least 2 pair since I lost my last set between surgeries.
- Printer/Scanner/Copier/Fax
I had asked a certain person for this for MONTHS and he has yet to come through so back on the list it goes.
- Sex and the City: The Complete Series (Collector's Giftset)
The same person I asked for the printer/scanner/copier/fax I had asked a few years back for this and he didn't get me that either. You would think I would learn my lesson and stop asking him. Back on the list this goes.
- Sex and the City Essentials
There are 4 of them and this is the low grade cheaper gift with the best of romance, lust, mr. big and breakups.
- Wine/Wine Glasses/Wine Opener
I'm very picky about wines but I have found a few that I like so I need the wine, appropriate wine glasses and a nice, easy to use wine opener. The ones I like are actually fairly cheap too. Wines of choice are: Rosa Regale, Vietti Cascinetta Moscato d'Asti 2004, and 2005 Moscato Allegro.
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6)
As much as I love Harry Potter I never bought or read this book although I partially know what happens in the book.
- Victoria's Secret gift card
Want to complete my garden collection and would be nice to by a new panty set...I always feel so sexy in my Vicky's.
- Good Life Woman Gift Set by Davidoff for Woman
This perfume is made by the same company that makes Cool Water. It's the only perfume I have found that is light and doesn't make me have an allergic reaction.
- FOOD
Someone please take me out to dinner...McCormick and Schmick, Cheesecake Factory, Red Lobster, Olive Garden...SOMETHING...or even better you can cook for me...I'll eat almost anything.
- TIVO with recordable DVR
I'm not even sure if a TIVO with a recordable DVR exists but if it does I want it...it's about time I start saving some of the shows I'm missing. There is just so much good TV I can't watch it all.
But here's my real list:
- Canon Power Shot Digital Camera
It's about time I stop avoiding the camera and capture the moments of my life. I've had some great ones.
- Fry Daddy
This was suggested to me since I'm prone to burning myself yet I want to be able to fry some chicken.
- Watch
If I don't have my cell phone I never know what time it is. Adults wear watches and don't just rely on their cell phones. It's time I join the adult ranks.
- Earrings
I'm like a little kid with earrings. I'm so prone to losing them. So I need at least 2 pair since I lost my last set between surgeries.
- Printer/Scanner/Copier/Fax
I had asked a certain person for this for MONTHS and he has yet to come through so back on the list it goes.
- Sex and the City: The Complete Series (Collector's Giftset)
The same person I asked for the printer/scanner/copier/fax I had asked a few years back for this and he didn't get me that either. You would think I would learn my lesson and stop asking him. Back on the list this goes.
- Sex and the City Essentials
There are 4 of them and this is the low grade cheaper gift with the best of romance, lust, mr. big and breakups.
- Wine/Wine Glasses/Wine Opener
I'm very picky about wines but I have found a few that I like so I need the wine, appropriate wine glasses and a nice, easy to use wine opener. The ones I like are actually fairly cheap too. Wines of choice are: Rosa Regale, Vietti Cascinetta Moscato d'Asti 2004, and 2005 Moscato Allegro.
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6)
As much as I love Harry Potter I never bought or read this book although I partially know what happens in the book.
- Victoria's Secret gift card
Want to complete my garden collection and would be nice to by a new panty set...I always feel so sexy in my Vicky's.
- Good Life Woman Gift Set by Davidoff for Woman
This perfume is made by the same company that makes Cool Water. It's the only perfume I have found that is light and doesn't make me have an allergic reaction.
- FOOD
Someone please take me out to dinner...McCormick and Schmick, Cheesecake Factory, Red Lobster, Olive Garden...SOMETHING...or even better you can cook for me...I'll eat almost anything.
- TIVO with recordable DVR
I'm not even sure if a TIVO with a recordable DVR exists but if it does I want it...it's about time I start saving some of the shows I'm missing. There is just so much good TV I can't watch it all.
Friday, December 01, 2006
The Long Road to Recovery
I would like to say I'm 50% recovered but it's probably more like 33%.
I am now in rehab for both of my feet. I go to physical therapy twice a week. I also do ultrasound therapy at home once or twice a day. On one foot I'm back in a sneaker BUT it's a size 9 1/2...2 sizes bigger than normal. I wear special socks every day to help with the swelling and circulation so my doctor promises that I will be back in my 7 1/2 shoes.
I'm not really in pain it's just a feeling of discomfort. It always feels like someone is squeezing my feet and won't let go. I do have some pain in my ankles because I walk with my feet turned out to avoid walking on the parts of my feet that have been operated on, mainly the pinky toes. Walking is a real challenge. I have to think about every single step I take from what kind of surface I'm stepping on to how I position my feet, etc.
To my shock and dismay I have to have one more surgery on December 29 to remove the pins from my feet. I told my doctor thank you for ruining my New Year's Eve. He said I'll be fine and I won't even need stitches...whatever. So there goes my goal of being able to wear shoes and look cute on NYE.
I need someone to remind me why I did this and why all that I'm enduring is worth it.
I am now in rehab for both of my feet. I go to physical therapy twice a week. I also do ultrasound therapy at home once or twice a day. On one foot I'm back in a sneaker BUT it's a size 9 1/2...2 sizes bigger than normal. I wear special socks every day to help with the swelling and circulation so my doctor promises that I will be back in my 7 1/2 shoes.
I'm not really in pain it's just a feeling of discomfort. It always feels like someone is squeezing my feet and won't let go. I do have some pain in my ankles because I walk with my feet turned out to avoid walking on the parts of my feet that have been operated on, mainly the pinky toes. Walking is a real challenge. I have to think about every single step I take from what kind of surface I'm stepping on to how I position my feet, etc.
To my shock and dismay I have to have one more surgery on December 29 to remove the pins from my feet. I told my doctor thank you for ruining my New Year's Eve. He said I'll be fine and I won't even need stitches...whatever. So there goes my goal of being able to wear shoes and look cute on NYE.
I need someone to remind me why I did this and why all that I'm enduring is worth it.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Crunk New Year's Eve
I don't have any plans for New Year's Eve so I was thinking about having a Crunk New Year's Eve party at my place. The signature drink of the evening would be Hennessey and Crunk Juice, of which I brought a case back courtesy of the Big Black Man. So what do y'all think? Should I crunk in the new year? Would you attend? If the answer is yes, I'm going to have to get another case of Crunk Juice when I go back to ATL for the Atlbutterflies Holiday Slumber Party.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Random Post
Every now and then you just gotta post some thing that you see or hear just so you can remember it for future use.
I was watching a Hollywood Access type show on TV One and the reporter asked Jennifer Lopez if her and her husband are "precaution free." Now that is a new, discreet way to ask if any baby making is going on. I gotta get married so I can live life precaution free.
I was watching a Hollywood Access type show on TV One and the reporter asked Jennifer Lopez if her and her husband are "precaution free." Now that is a new, discreet way to ask if any baby making is going on. I gotta get married so I can live life precaution free.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
2006 American Music Awards
You know you are a blogger when it is second nature to sit at your computer and type initial thoughts/reactions to an awards show. I haven't blogged in like a week and now I feel the immediate need to blog. So here's my recap of the entire show.
First off, why do we have the American Music Awards? What distinguishes it from the Grammy's? Is it more exclusive? Last time I checked winning an AMA does not increase record sales but winning a Grammy does.
Why did the American Music Awards start off so slow? How you gonna have Beyonce open with a slow song and immediately follow with Carrie Underwood and her medley of 3 of her songs. I wanted to see Beyonce do some of her signature dancing...so clearly I was disappointed.
Jimmy Kimmels opening was not bad but he spent too much time talking about Snoop. I thought the K. Fed spoof was kind of funny but then it become clearly fucked up when the first presenter was his soon to be ex-wife Britney Spears.
Is it me or does it seem like Mariah's album came out like 2 years ago...so why is she still being nominated for awards. Was glad that Mary J. Blige won.
Next presenters I missed their intro so was that the Cheetah Girls or 3LW the 2.0 version?
I love the Pussycat Dolls song...I didn't like their first single...and you know I love the dance in the video...so I was disappointed in the performance. Why was one cat missing, one cat fucked up the chair portion of the dance and when the mysterious missing cat did appear she sounded like a dying cat? And why didn't Snoop perform with the Pussycat Dolls?
Am I the only one that hasn't seen High School Musical?
The Black Eyed Peas did not have any competition in the best group category.
Jimmy Kimmel's Black Eyed Peas/Kramer joke was not funny. But at least he had jokes based on recent/current events.
Nelly Furtado...why was she up on a pedestal doing nothing? And what was up with the sound effects guy? As my sister Kee Lo Lo so eloquently put it he looked like our brother Unk T doing something he would do just to annoy/provoke laughter out of the crew.
Why did some awards have no set up video intro like whatever award Eminem won and wasn't there to accept? It went so fast I didn't even catch what award it was. Did they do that to save time in the shows broadcast for performances and for winners that were actually there?
What was up with all the wind blown hair every time a female performed?
I think they cut out the video introductions of nominees to save time because they kept doing that throughout the show even if the winner was seated in the audience. Country band/duo/group...Who cares? I don't.
Never heard of Snow Patrol...Yes I'm one of the few people in the world that does not watch Grey's Anatomy...But I liked the song/performance. Maybe I will now be inspired to spend my X-mas vacation catching up on past seasons of Grey's Anatomy so I can see what all the hub bub is all about.
Gwen Stefani is always on some other stuff. But I gotta respect her individuality and creativity...I mean she had us spelling banana and liking it...so I don't expect any less from her. And she kept her Asian chicks so that was not a one album phase. Two most memorable lines from her performance: "From the back..but don't let him ride." "Does he know how to wind you up?"
Then to follow up with Jay-Z!?!??! The back to back performances at least kept stuff flowing but the pairing of who would perform after who was a little odd. Beyonce was real hype for her man in the front row and throwing up the diamond. And that random guy in Jay-Z's performance was dancing real hard...like harder than I can ever dance...and that's saying a lot. I wonder how his album sales were today since most of us aggins downloaded it about a month ago.
Red Hot Chili Peppers had a very interesting acceptance to not even be at the show.
The Diana Ross look on Vanessa Williams must have been to get us ready for Dreamgirls. And a note on the Kay Jewelers sponsorship of a lounge or something...I'll take anything from Kay BUT an engagement ring. Just a word to the wise in case anyone plans on popping the question.
Flavor Flav as the adopted baby was hilarious...and he broke his clock.
Who was Jamie Foxx holding hands with? Cause when the camera shot to him during the Flavor Flav moment he was ready to fall out his chair but was holding some woman's hand tight.
Sean Paul was not paying attention so clearly he didn't want the award.
Kimmel had to have a follow up Flavor Flav joke about him and his soon to be 8 kids.
OK...so who is the fat chick sitting next to Jamie Foxx that was holding his hand...when he won the award we clearly saw who she was and she was not someone MzB would be friends with. I hope the woman with the weave was his mother he ain't seen in years and not the other chick.
Why was Sharon Stone a presenter? She was clearly cold or at least that is what her nipples indicted. Dixie Chicks was a chance to take a bathroom break and copy edit what I had written.
Tenacious D...I want Jack Black to just give it up...Rock School was a funny movie but give it up. I'm not going to see the movie and it's not going on my Netflixs list and that is saying a lot coming from someone like me that will watch ANYTHING and EVERYTHING. I have watched some of the worst movies ever in the hopes that by the end of the movie it would redeem itself and not even I will give this movie half a chance.
Because of the pairing of Mary J. Blige after Tenacious D I almost missed the performance. I was feeling her gold boots and it made me think of the Quo's...you know how gold boots are a turn on for them. I didn't buy or download Mary's last album so I didn't know the song she sang. Unfortunately I'm one of those people that loved the cracked out and depressed Mary J. Blige. Her songs from that time in her life just touched a place within me..."My Life" will always be my favorite Mary album...she could come out with 20 more albums I will always LOVE "My Life."
Kirk Franklin had no competition in his category. I LOVE that CD. I used to listen to that first single, "Looking for You," every morning as I drove to and from work when I lived in Atlanta. It would just get me hype.
The Lionel Richie flashback showed me where P. Diddy got his inspiration for shiny suits. And I was glad to see Nicole Richie has gained a few pounds back. I like his song and it was nice that everyone stood up for his performance. He took us back in time...nice trip down memory lane with "All Night Long".
Fall Out Boy was another performance that I could use as a potty break. But for the record running up the aisle to the stage is not a great way to start your performance.
I agreed with Kimmel's joke about what a rapper does when a country singer is performing...they are on their sidekicks and blackberry's.
Is Carrie Underwood the most successful American Idol winner?
At least I had or think I had heard the Rascal Flats song before. But if life is a highway I'm not sure if I want to ride it all night long.
It was nice of Jamie to dedicate his performance to Gerald Levert and his family. And it was one of the best if not the best performance of the night. He looked good, sounded good and I love that song. He got me teary...that's the sign of a good performance with me.
And I was actually ok with Kimmel's transition joke.
Text-in award...I didn't even know they were having a text-in award.
Carmen Electra introducing Barry Manilow...ok...why is he even performing? I swear him and Tony Bennett are preserved with formaldehyde.
Black Eyed Peas just kept on winning...last I counted it was three wins.
And I like this John Mayer song...but I refuse to wait on the world to change...I'm just going to keep on progressing. I got hooked on this song because of CSI.
I like Chamillionaire and Weird Al together...Riding Dirty and White and Nerdy...but I thought they were going to present an award.
How does Akon and Snoop qualify for show finale status? Still shocked at the pole dancers on network TV. Didn't Akon's album come out today as well. What idiot thought it was a good idea to put his album out the same day as Jay Z? But I was feeling the dance moves...gonna have to YouTube the performance. Akon is all over the radio in NYC...I don't know about the rest of the country.
Tyrese aka Black Tie...he needs to give up on the rap cause only his love songs really hit.
But the show did end on a good night with Mary J. Blige winning her second AMA of the night.
Throughout the show there were some sound tech issues. You would hear random scratching and static and stuff. And the cameramen kept fucking up.
Is it me or do less and less actual winners show up at the AMA? So what's the point of having the AMA's...for advertisers? The AMA's are losing their luster.
First off, why do we have the American Music Awards? What distinguishes it from the Grammy's? Is it more exclusive? Last time I checked winning an AMA does not increase record sales but winning a Grammy does.
Why did the American Music Awards start off so slow? How you gonna have Beyonce open with a slow song and immediately follow with Carrie Underwood and her medley of 3 of her songs. I wanted to see Beyonce do some of her signature dancing...so clearly I was disappointed.
Jimmy Kimmels opening was not bad but he spent too much time talking about Snoop. I thought the K. Fed spoof was kind of funny but then it become clearly fucked up when the first presenter was his soon to be ex-wife Britney Spears.
Is it me or does it seem like Mariah's album came out like 2 years ago...so why is she still being nominated for awards. Was glad that Mary J. Blige won.
Next presenters I missed their intro so was that the Cheetah Girls or 3LW the 2.0 version?
I love the Pussycat Dolls song...I didn't like their first single...and you know I love the dance in the video...so I was disappointed in the performance. Why was one cat missing, one cat fucked up the chair portion of the dance and when the mysterious missing cat did appear she sounded like a dying cat? And why didn't Snoop perform with the Pussycat Dolls?
Am I the only one that hasn't seen High School Musical?
The Black Eyed Peas did not have any competition in the best group category.
Jimmy Kimmel's Black Eyed Peas/Kramer joke was not funny. But at least he had jokes based on recent/current events.
Nelly Furtado...why was she up on a pedestal doing nothing? And what was up with the sound effects guy? As my sister Kee Lo Lo so eloquently put it he looked like our brother Unk T doing something he would do just to annoy/provoke laughter out of the crew.
Why did some awards have no set up video intro like whatever award Eminem won and wasn't there to accept? It went so fast I didn't even catch what award it was. Did they do that to save time in the shows broadcast for performances and for winners that were actually there?
What was up with all the wind blown hair every time a female performed?
I think they cut out the video introductions of nominees to save time because they kept doing that throughout the show even if the winner was seated in the audience. Country band/duo/group...Who cares? I don't.
Never heard of Snow Patrol...Yes I'm one of the few people in the world that does not watch Grey's Anatomy...But I liked the song/performance. Maybe I will now be inspired to spend my X-mas vacation catching up on past seasons of Grey's Anatomy so I can see what all the hub bub is all about.
Gwen Stefani is always on some other stuff. But I gotta respect her individuality and creativity...I mean she had us spelling banana and liking it...so I don't expect any less from her. And she kept her Asian chicks so that was not a one album phase. Two most memorable lines from her performance: "From the back..but don't let him ride." "Does he know how to wind you up?"
Then to follow up with Jay-Z!?!??! The back to back performances at least kept stuff flowing but the pairing of who would perform after who was a little odd. Beyonce was real hype for her man in the front row and throwing up the diamond. And that random guy in Jay-Z's performance was dancing real hard...like harder than I can ever dance...and that's saying a lot. I wonder how his album sales were today since most of us aggins downloaded it about a month ago.
Red Hot Chili Peppers had a very interesting acceptance to not even be at the show.
The Diana Ross look on Vanessa Williams must have been to get us ready for Dreamgirls. And a note on the Kay Jewelers sponsorship of a lounge or something...I'll take anything from Kay BUT an engagement ring. Just a word to the wise in case anyone plans on popping the question.
Flavor Flav as the adopted baby was hilarious...and he broke his clock.
Who was Jamie Foxx holding hands with? Cause when the camera shot to him during the Flavor Flav moment he was ready to fall out his chair but was holding some woman's hand tight.
Sean Paul was not paying attention so clearly he didn't want the award.
Kimmel had to have a follow up Flavor Flav joke about him and his soon to be 8 kids.
OK...so who is the fat chick sitting next to Jamie Foxx that was holding his hand...when he won the award we clearly saw who she was and she was not someone MzB would be friends with. I hope the woman with the weave was his mother he ain't seen in years and not the other chick.
Why was Sharon Stone a presenter? She was clearly cold or at least that is what her nipples indicted. Dixie Chicks was a chance to take a bathroom break and copy edit what I had written.
Tenacious D...I want Jack Black to just give it up...Rock School was a funny movie but give it up. I'm not going to see the movie and it's not going on my Netflixs list and that is saying a lot coming from someone like me that will watch ANYTHING and EVERYTHING. I have watched some of the worst movies ever in the hopes that by the end of the movie it would redeem itself and not even I will give this movie half a chance.
Because of the pairing of Mary J. Blige after Tenacious D I almost missed the performance. I was feeling her gold boots and it made me think of the Quo's...you know how gold boots are a turn on for them. I didn't buy or download Mary's last album so I didn't know the song she sang. Unfortunately I'm one of those people that loved the cracked out and depressed Mary J. Blige. Her songs from that time in her life just touched a place within me..."My Life" will always be my favorite Mary album...she could come out with 20 more albums I will always LOVE "My Life."
Kirk Franklin had no competition in his category. I LOVE that CD. I used to listen to that first single, "Looking for You," every morning as I drove to and from work when I lived in Atlanta. It would just get me hype.
The Lionel Richie flashback showed me where P. Diddy got his inspiration for shiny suits. And I was glad to see Nicole Richie has gained a few pounds back. I like his song and it was nice that everyone stood up for his performance. He took us back in time...nice trip down memory lane with "All Night Long".
Fall Out Boy was another performance that I could use as a potty break. But for the record running up the aisle to the stage is not a great way to start your performance.
I agreed with Kimmel's joke about what a rapper does when a country singer is performing...they are on their sidekicks and blackberry's.
Is Carrie Underwood the most successful American Idol winner?
At least I had or think I had heard the Rascal Flats song before. But if life is a highway I'm not sure if I want to ride it all night long.
It was nice of Jamie to dedicate his performance to Gerald Levert and his family. And it was one of the best if not the best performance of the night. He looked good, sounded good and I love that song. He got me teary...that's the sign of a good performance with me.
And I was actually ok with Kimmel's transition joke.
Text-in award...I didn't even know they were having a text-in award.
Carmen Electra introducing Barry Manilow...ok...why is he even performing? I swear him and Tony Bennett are preserved with formaldehyde.
Black Eyed Peas just kept on winning...last I counted it was three wins.
And I like this John Mayer song...but I refuse to wait on the world to change...I'm just going to keep on progressing. I got hooked on this song because of CSI.
I like Chamillionaire and Weird Al together...Riding Dirty and White and Nerdy...but I thought they were going to present an award.
How does Akon and Snoop qualify for show finale status? Still shocked at the pole dancers on network TV. Didn't Akon's album come out today as well. What idiot thought it was a good idea to put his album out the same day as Jay Z? But I was feeling the dance moves...gonna have to YouTube the performance. Akon is all over the radio in NYC...I don't know about the rest of the country.
Tyrese aka Black Tie...he needs to give up on the rap cause only his love songs really hit.
But the show did end on a good night with Mary J. Blige winning her second AMA of the night.
Throughout the show there were some sound tech issues. You would hear random scratching and static and stuff. And the cameramen kept fucking up.
Is it me or do less and less actual winners show up at the AMA? So what's the point of having the AMA's...for advertisers? The AMA's are losing their luster.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Video Vixen Sidelined
I love to dance. My mom could never afford for me to take formal lessons. But every now and then I would impress someone with my raw talent and get a scholarship here and there to take a few classes. But it was never enough to make me a professional dancer by any means.
But dancing for me has always been a way of dealing with what life throws at me. I like to hear a new song whose video has not come out yet and visualize/choreograph in my head what the dance would be. And I'm very good at picking up dance moves in videos. The ones I really like I study and practice in my living room.
I literally dance every single day...until now. The situation with my feet has sidelined the video vixen and I'm miserable. I can't flex my toes to be able to dance because the combination of flexing and pressure of supporting the bodies weight is too painful. So I'm miserable. What if I won't be able to dance the way I used to dance again. If I had known the true effects of the surgery on my feet I might have just chosen to live with the pain. So what that the thing I love to do, dancing, causes me so much pain because of my feet. Eventually the pain goes away and I can dance another day.
And I try...because I'm so stubborn...to dance anyway. But as I try to dance despite the pain tears just start streaming from my eyes down my face. If anyone was in my apartment with me they could see the battle between what my heart wants to do and what my body will allow me to do. I have physical therapy again today so I'm going to talk to my doctor...I want to know when will I be me again...when will I be the video vixen...when can I wear normal shoes...when can I flex my feet...cause this right now...it just ain't me and I'm miserable because of it.
But dancing for me has always been a way of dealing with what life throws at me. I like to hear a new song whose video has not come out yet and visualize/choreograph in my head what the dance would be. And I'm very good at picking up dance moves in videos. The ones I really like I study and practice in my living room.
I literally dance every single day...until now. The situation with my feet has sidelined the video vixen and I'm miserable. I can't flex my toes to be able to dance because the combination of flexing and pressure of supporting the bodies weight is too painful. So I'm miserable. What if I won't be able to dance the way I used to dance again. If I had known the true effects of the surgery on my feet I might have just chosen to live with the pain. So what that the thing I love to do, dancing, causes me so much pain because of my feet. Eventually the pain goes away and I can dance another day.
And I try...because I'm so stubborn...to dance anyway. But as I try to dance despite the pain tears just start streaming from my eyes down my face. If anyone was in my apartment with me they could see the battle between what my heart wants to do and what my body will allow me to do. I have physical therapy again today so I'm going to talk to my doctor...I want to know when will I be me again...when will I be the video vixen...when can I wear normal shoes...when can I flex my feet...cause this right now...it just ain't me and I'm miserable because of it.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
You know you are grown
You ever have those moments where you are truly reminded that you are an adult? Well I had one last night. Here are some clues that you are an adult.
After work I came home and cooked dinner. Clue #1 - me cooking. I made crab cakes with broccoli and cheese and a toss salad and I made a fresh fruit smoothie to wash it all down.
Clue #2 - eating healthy. My mom makes a fresh fruit smoothie for breakfast every day...I don't cause I don't want to have to clean the blender. But since I had bought some bananas and strawberries from Fresh Direct I decided I needed to make something with them before they went bad.
Clue #3 - actually having fresh fruit or in my case food at all to cook in the refrigerator. I sat down and watched the news as I ate my meal.
Clue #4 - watching the news. I don't know what possessed me to watch the news and not flip to a music video channel.
So after I ate the healthy meal I had cooked and dined on while watching the news I did laundry. Clue #5 - doing chores. Now y'all know me, chores are for the weekend. I have never, ever, ever chosen or planned to do chores during the week. But lo and behold I was sorting laundry.
But the biggest reminder that I am truly an adult was ending the evening by talking to my mom about what I had cooked for dinner and the chores I had completed. If that is not the most boring and adult conversation you can have with your parents I don't know what is. I used to tease my sister about why are you talking to mom about what you are making for dinner, like that is significant. Umpteen years later I find myself doing the same exact thing. When I realized all of this I wanted to snap myself out of it...go do something young and fun and irresponsible. But ultimately I was too damn tired to do all that...so I went to bed.
After work I came home and cooked dinner. Clue #1 - me cooking. I made crab cakes with broccoli and cheese and a toss salad and I made a fresh fruit smoothie to wash it all down.
Clue #2 - eating healthy. My mom makes a fresh fruit smoothie for breakfast every day...I don't cause I don't want to have to clean the blender. But since I had bought some bananas and strawberries from Fresh Direct I decided I needed to make something with them before they went bad.
Clue #3 - actually having fresh fruit or in my case food at all to cook in the refrigerator. I sat down and watched the news as I ate my meal.
Clue #4 - watching the news. I don't know what possessed me to watch the news and not flip to a music video channel.
So after I ate the healthy meal I had cooked and dined on while watching the news I did laundry. Clue #5 - doing chores. Now y'all know me, chores are for the weekend. I have never, ever, ever chosen or planned to do chores during the week. But lo and behold I was sorting laundry.
But the biggest reminder that I am truly an adult was ending the evening by talking to my mom about what I had cooked for dinner and the chores I had completed. If that is not the most boring and adult conversation you can have with your parents I don't know what is. I used to tease my sister about why are you talking to mom about what you are making for dinner, like that is significant. Umpteen years later I find myself doing the same exact thing. When I realized all of this I wanted to snap myself out of it...go do something young and fun and irresponsible. But ultimately I was too damn tired to do all that...so I went to bed.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Fancy Feet
It's 6 days until I have the operation on my right foot. The doctor says my left foot is healing well but I'm a little concerned about having to depend on my left foot when it is not completely healed. But the biggest shock to my system was the claim.
The insurance claim for the left foot operation is finally being processed and you won't believe how much one foot cost. $30,000...that's right 3-0-0-0-0! And my insurance has not yet decided how much of it they are going to pay. But my doctor is super cool. The only reason why I allowed this process to happen is because he assured me that whatever the insurance paid is what he would accept. He would not expect me to pay the remaining balance or any co-pays. I have physical therapy tomorrow so I'm going to get a little reassurance from him. Because even my physical therapy sessions cost $460 a session of which my insurance says I should pay $44 for each session. Thus far my doctor has never charged me for anything...not a single co-pay since I started going to him.
I know you can't put a monetary value on body parts...unless you are J. Lo...but at the end of all this my feet might actually be worth $75,000 after all the work that will have been done on them. If only I could cash in on my feet....lol...j/k.
The insurance claim for the left foot operation is finally being processed and you won't believe how much one foot cost. $30,000...that's right 3-0-0-0-0! And my insurance has not yet decided how much of it they are going to pay. But my doctor is super cool. The only reason why I allowed this process to happen is because he assured me that whatever the insurance paid is what he would accept. He would not expect me to pay the remaining balance or any co-pays. I have physical therapy tomorrow so I'm going to get a little reassurance from him. Because even my physical therapy sessions cost $460 a session of which my insurance says I should pay $44 for each session. Thus far my doctor has never charged me for anything...not a single co-pay since I started going to him.
I know you can't put a monetary value on body parts...unless you are J. Lo...but at the end of all this my feet might actually be worth $75,000 after all the work that will have been done on them. If only I could cash in on my feet....lol...j/k.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Release Therapy
It's been three weeks since the surgery on my left foot. I'm finally walking without a cane. I started physical therapy in the morning twice a week before I go to work.
Therapy entails soaking my foot in a warm whirlpool for 10 minutes followed by an electroshock treatment for 10 minutes to work the muscles in my foot and help with the swelling. The session ends with the doctor putting vitamin E oil on my scars and gently massaging my foot before bandaging it up. Physical therapy is not fun. It's not overly painful but for the rest of the day my foot bothers me. I'll have spells of it falling asleep or swelling up and of course pain but I can't do anything about it until I go home after work. As much as I complain and despite the pain the doctor says my foot is healing very well. And I haven't lost any range of motion in my toes.
My next surgery is in 10 days. I'm hoping I won't still be wearing a boot on my left foot when it's time for the right foot to get repaired.
Therapy entails soaking my foot in a warm whirlpool for 10 minutes followed by an electroshock treatment for 10 minutes to work the muscles in my foot and help with the swelling. The session ends with the doctor putting vitamin E oil on my scars and gently massaging my foot before bandaging it up. Physical therapy is not fun. It's not overly painful but for the rest of the day my foot bothers me. I'll have spells of it falling asleep or swelling up and of course pain but I can't do anything about it until I go home after work. As much as I complain and despite the pain the doctor says my foot is healing very well. And I haven't lost any range of motion in my toes.
My next surgery is in 10 days. I'm hoping I won't still be wearing a boot on my left foot when it's time for the right foot to get repaired.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Holiday Travels
I'm not a big fan of the holidays. I don't have a family of my own (or a man) so the holidays just don't hold that same warm and fuzzy feeling for me as they do for other people. But thank GOD for my friends. As I have said many times before my friends are my family.
So for Turkey Day I'll be in the A-T-L. Home sweet home to me. My crew is doing our usual friends and family potluck Turkey Day. So I worked it out with my boss to work that week out of the Atlanta offices of SI.com. But this will be interesting because I'm having surgery on my right foot 96 hours before my flight to Atlanta. And I have rented a car as well. I'm anxious to see how I'll be able to manuever. But when there is a will there is a way and I'm the most stubborn person I know. :)
But the holiday fun doesn't end there. December 16 the crew is doing our annual Holiday Slumber Party. Yes, your eyes did not deceive you. It's a slumber party just like you used to have when you were kids. Everyone MUST wear pajamas. The event is pot luck, we play games, talk, laugh, drink, watch movies, listen to music, etc. We go to sleep, at least for a lil while...Unk T cooks us breakfast in the morning and everyone goes home after breakfast. It's pretty straight forward and tons of fun. And I wouldn't miss it for anything.
I don't have anything planned for X-mas or New Year's Eve but it's just the beginning of November. Who knows what might happen? Maybe some surprise trip will happen like last NYE or maybe I'll go to Vegas...
So for Turkey Day I'll be in the A-T-L. Home sweet home to me. My crew is doing our usual friends and family potluck Turkey Day. So I worked it out with my boss to work that week out of the Atlanta offices of SI.com. But this will be interesting because I'm having surgery on my right foot 96 hours before my flight to Atlanta. And I have rented a car as well. I'm anxious to see how I'll be able to manuever. But when there is a will there is a way and I'm the most stubborn person I know. :)
But the holiday fun doesn't end there. December 16 the crew is doing our annual Holiday Slumber Party. Yes, your eyes did not deceive you. It's a slumber party just like you used to have when you were kids. Everyone MUST wear pajamas. The event is pot luck, we play games, talk, laugh, drink, watch movies, listen to music, etc. We go to sleep, at least for a lil while...Unk T cooks us breakfast in the morning and everyone goes home after breakfast. It's pretty straight forward and tons of fun. And I wouldn't miss it for anything.
I don't have anything planned for X-mas or New Year's Eve but it's just the beginning of November. Who knows what might happen? Maybe some surprise trip will happen like last NYE or maybe I'll go to Vegas...
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