Poetic Expressions: Mother vs Stranger

By: Ladie Leblanc

www.ladieleblanc.com

A woman that took me into her home and showed me love that I wish my mother had.

 The feeling that I feel inside is so overwhelming that I wished I could just blink and the thoughts would end.

 I feel as if my body is changing and my mind is becoming hardened.

 My feelings only usually last for a minute but these feelings feel more permanent.

 Taking care of her parents makes me think of how my family should have been.

 A house filled with love, care, and concern but for me this is nonexistent.

Strangers took me in because my family says that I have hurt them.

 Never once did I get an apology for all the pain they caused me but instead I am apologetic.

 It’s always my words that seem to be pleading but only to fall on deaf ears.

 Yet a stranger can see my sincerity and take me in and advise me to let the past go so that I am able to win.

 A stranger decides that she wants to help me because she sees herself within me.

 She saw me and the way I am running.

 She saw me and embraced me

 She saw me and instantly knew!

 How come you can’t, I grew up with you?

 A stranger looked at me and felt my pain; she heard me got in her truck and came right away.

 You are my mother and I call you and you lie straight to my face.

 I hear your voice and feel the lies.

 A stranger comes along and helps me in more ways than one but instead of her I wished you were the one.

“Come home, baby” is what I needed and wanted to hear but your response was nowhere near.

 A stranger came along and taught me more in one day than you did in a lifetime.

“Mother vs. Stranger” and the Stranger is the winner!

Live.Laugh.Learn: The Encounter, Part II

By: Lara Lettsome

Life should be about letting go, being free and growing into who you are meant to be.  Follow the young character, Karlie Sims, as she attempts to transition into life after school in a new city; without all of her friends and family.

Antonio is a young man with an unexpected past. Karlie is a woman with a developing unexpected future. The present moments brings them together. Of course love will be an option, but are they ready to Live, Laugh and Learn? 

Missed the very beginning?  Click HERE to read Chapter 1: Realize, Honey...

~*~ CHAPTER 2 ~*~

THE ENCOUNTER

(Continued)

Two months later I was starting to settle into the new city.

I found a dog park and met all kinds of dog owners. Plus Jiggy found himself a little bull dog girlfriend named Darla. I guess Jiggy likes them with a little meat on their bones, I laugh when I see them together. I met up with Darla and her owner every once and a while. She was 27 year old diva from North Carolina named Stacy. She was fun to be around and she showed me a lot of her favorite places; like where she gets her eyebrows threaded, where she gets her hair done, her favorite cupcake bakery and her favorite grown N sexy lounge. She made me laugh also; she was almost as crazy as her dog. Next month we made plans to go out of town for a fashion show that one of her male-divo buddy’s from college was throwing.

Mrs. Blake, my coworker that looked like Coretta Scott, lightened up bit and kind of took me in as her own. I attended some of her favorite charity’s programs and did a lot of volunteer work with her. Mrs. Blake had me on a roll in the community. I even became a big sister to a 9 year old girl with a big heart.

 I had always dreamed of being apart of the big brother/ big sister program, and now that I was settled and had a money flow, I had no excuses. My little sister was from a troubled home, her name was Raven. In these past couple of months, she had really grown on me. It’s not that she wasn’t lovable to begin with, but her circumstances already had her walking around with a chip on her shoulder. Eventually she opened up, and I became attached. I bought her new school clothes/supplies, took her to chuck e cheese frequently (at her request, of course) and even took her to a water park. Most of the time I spend with her, I utilize helping her with her homework; her mother didn’t get that far in school and isn’t capable of helping her herself.

Four days a week I still go to the gym. I even lost 8 pounds doing that Hot Yoga stuff. I could see my body changing, and it was exciting. Time to time I see the winking, smooth skin, white teethed brilliance who remains nameless. It’s awesome to look at him, but as long as that ring is on his finger I wouldn’t dare make a move. I am far too respectful to become a Joseline Hernandez.

Yesterday I decided that I might try my luck at the rock climbing wall. I made it to the top on the easy, and about half way on the medium side. I don’t think I strategized as well as I could have. I made up my mind that I might try again next week. But today; today was Friday, oh lord today--- my body was aching.

After work I made my way to the gym for the sole purpose of getting my free monthly massage in the conjoining spa. After the relaxing massage I made my way to the pool and Jacuzzi area. I walked towards the Women’s Jacuzzi, but it was blocked off by a cart, a cone and a sign that read “Closed for Cleaning”.  I sighed as I continued to read, “Men’s Jacuzzi is Co-Ed in the meantime”. I walked around to the other side to see a sign on the men’s door that read “Co-Ed all day”. “Fuck it” I said to myself as I pushed on the door and entered. It smells like Jean Paul Gaultier cologne in here, I cringed up my nose. It was strong. I took off my sandals and robe, revealing my bathing suit. I smiled. Finally I can finish relaxing. I placed my belongings on a bench nearby and turned on the bubbles.  I slowly climbed in. It was hot, absolutely lovely.

I sank in, dipping my entire body, then back up only enough to breath; my chin still submerged. I closed my eyes and my mind began to wander to what that fashion show might be like. I imagined something like America’s Next Top Model meets Ru Pauls Drag Race; An eleganza extravaganza!  Will it be the Kiki of the century, where they serve tea, shade, and just deserts? I giggled.  I watch too much TV.

“She does smile”, I heard a baritone speak.

I crack my eyes open and look around to see Bronze standing near an open shower not too far from me. He takes off his basketball shorts and sweaty t-shirt until all he has on is his swim trunks. He smiles as he turns towards the shower, enters and turns on the water. He turns back to face me as he rinses off his body. I struggle to close my eyes back because I am admiring his being.  I try to hum songs in my head to get him out of my mind. The water stops.

“Are you always this cold?” he spoke again, climbing into the Jacuzzi with me.

SHIT.  I pause. “Hey”. I never realized how rude I probably looked for always staring him down and not speaking. Or how many other things he probably thought I was. Cold? , “How are you?” I nodded at him trying to play cool.

“I’m doing great. Had an awesome workout”, I bet he did. I bet all his workouts were. A chest like that? I began counting his abs as each one went under water…. 2, 4, 6….. Jesus. He has 8.  “Antonio”, he said extending his hand. “Antonio Duval”

I returned the greeting, “Karlie Sims, nice to meet you”

“Karlie Sims. That’s very pretty”, he smiled again.

“Thank you” I said, turning my face from him.

He continued, “You wouldn’t happen to be named after THEE Carly Simon, would you?”

I was fairly surprised a young guy like him even knew who that was, “The one and only. My dad thought she was stunning”, I think I was even more surprised that I was picking up on an accent. “Where are you from?”, I added.

“New Orleans, Louisiana”, I guess that explained the French last name.

“Cajun?”, I asked.

He responded with, “Creole, sweetheart”. Trust me when I say I wanted to laugh. He dragged out and emphasized every vowel. 

“What are you doing in south haven Mississippi?” I inquired.

“Engineering. But, I’m still in the south. If anyone is out of place, it would have to be you.” He smiled. “So I should be asking you. What are YOU doing here?”

“Same, Work opportunity.” I said. Then I began I get out of the water.

“Leaving so soon?” he asked, his face looking a bit disappointed.

“Yeah, I have somewhere I have to be”, I promised raven that if she passed her math test, I would take her to get ice cream today. It was the truth, but I definitely used her as an exit strategy.  I really needed to get out of that Jacuzzi, because him and the hot water started to make my body overheat.

“Well it was nice to finally meet you Karlie, see you around” He grinned again. I glanced at the ring on his finger. There is a great possibility that I might need to change gyms.

“You too, goodbye” I huffed as I exited. I got dressed in the woman’s locker room and went into down town to get raven.

What’s funny is, I haven’t told anybody about Antonio except for raven. She did what every 9 year old would do; she teased me for having this absurd crush. Can I call it crush? It was more like… well. I don’t know. Every time we met up she would ask me if I had talked to him yet. It’s a pity how my best girlfriend is a 9 year old. I skipped on telling her about the Jacuzzi. What’s even more strange is that little kids give the best advice. She is completely logical. Like someone? Talk to them. Want to go on vacation? Save money. Etc. I should really start selling her advice as my own.

After ice cream, I dropped her back off at home. On my way back into south haven, Stacy Called.

“GUUURRRRRRRLLLLL”, Stacy sang on the other line. I laughed.

“What’s up?” I just knew she was getting ready to tell me something.

“Three things!” She paused for dramatics. “One, the male revue will be here the weekend of my birthday”

“You mean the strippers?”

“Girl YAASSSSS!!! WE ARE GOING!!!”

“Im down”

“Bay –BAY, you didn’t have a choice hun-tee” she demanded comically. She continued “TWO. My homegirl just got a promotion. WE ARE CELEBRATING TONIGHT. You MUST come with. SAY YOU’LL COME WITH?” she begged.

I looked at the time. I’m not getting any younger. “Sure, what time are we meeting up?”

“YAAAAASSSSSSS!!!! 9:30 at my place for margaritas and last minute prep”

“Alright, I can do that!” I agreed.

“Ok, I’ll see you in a few then.” She confirmed.

“WAIT!!!!!” I said, waiting to see if she hung up.

“What’s up?” she replied

“What was the third thing?” I remembered

“Oh HUN-TEE. You fell for that old trick?” She laughed. “Number three. IM STILL FABULOUS!”

I shook my head as I hung up the phone laughing.  She is wild. What the hell am I going to wear?

*Stay tuned for Chapter 3 next week!* 

5 Steps for that Moment When Things Don't Go Your Way

by: Reign Martin

We've all lived through a moment (or several) where things don't exactly go as planned.  I often remember hearing adults saying, "Not everything is going to go your way".  I had no idea how true that statement was until I became an adult...with responsibilities.

Yes, it sucks when things don't go your way...the fact of the matter is that it is a fact of life.  Although it brings about a multitude of feelings such as frustration, disappointment and even anger in some cases, it is important to know how to pick up the pieces and keep going.

Regardless of the situation, there are several steps that you can take to help you get through that moment when things don't go your way with ease.

1. Regroup:  Your insides (and outsides) may be boiling with a laundry list of emotions, but you'll need to realize that acting on those feelings won't necessarily get you anywhere if you train them in the wrong direction.  Call a time-out, take a minute to step back and evaluate the situation.  Calm down, regroup and regain your sense of direction.  Take as much time as you need, since the next step will be a call to action that should have no room for emotions.

2. Evaluate:  Ask yourself why the original plan didn't go according to plan, and what you could have done to encourage a more favorable outcome.  Compare expected results to what you actually ended up with.  Where did things go wrong?  Did things not turn out the way you expected due to action of your own?  Or was there a specific person that brought about a different result?  This is not the time to point fingers.  Use this time to really get to the root of the situation.

3.  Reach Out:  Ask for the input/constructive criticism of other parties involved.  If this was a solo act, then reach out to an unbiased party that you can trust to tell you the truth.  Try not to take this feedback personally.  Instead, use this opportunity to gain a fresh perspective of the situation.  This may also bring to light other options for ensuring your desired outcome next time.

4. Plan:  Once you have taken the time to Regroup, Re-Evaluate and Reach Out, it is time to start formulating a new plan.  Take into account the information that you have gathered from steps 2 and 3 so that you don't repeat the same mistakes twice.  Set realistic goals to help you achieve the desired results, and build a plan around this goal.  Take the time to carefully plan out your course of action, making sure to always think of a Plan B or C, just in case!

 5. Execute:  Now that you have a well thought out plan, along with backups, it is now time to Execute!  If you take your time, and gather the information needed to have a successful outcome, then there is absolutely no reason as to why it should not happen...unless the desired results are ridiculously unrealistic, of course.

As a rule of thumb, try to refrain from making spur of the moment decisions.  Especially if the decision you are making could bring about serious consequences for you or others involved.  Learning to improvise is a much better option, than operating as a fly by night individual.  Not only will improvising ease your mind, it will also allow you to come off as the person that can work through any situation.

Keeping these tips in mind, we have to ask...Are you ready for that next moment when something doesn't go your way?

Music Musings_Delayed Albums: Worth the Wait?

By: D.J. Hayes

Any artist can tell you that rushing the process can have the unintended effect of tainting the quality.

And when someone is contractually obligated to produce material, such as musicians, forcing the creativity happens quite frequently. Everyone knows of a band or artist that obviously took a nap on one of their albums to meet a deadline (Mine is Lupe Fiasco’s “Lasers”, which quite frankly, sucked an immense amount of ass). So it would seem that anyone trying to stay true to their craft would rather incur whatever penalties the label might offer in order to preserve the legitimacy of their catalog. Perfect example: Dr. Dre’s “Chronic 2001”. Nothing short of immaculate, even after the years of push backs and hype that it couldn’t-but-somehow-managed-to-(and-then-some) live up to. But how long is too long? At what point is someone just spinning their wheels as the window closes on their relevance? Let’s look at some examples:

The Beach Boys – Smile

The first perpetually postponed album, Smile was to be Brian Wilson’s answer to The Beatles “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”. Wilson and The Beatles had kept one-upping and inspiring one-another’s albums for the few albums prior to the 1966 recording sessions, an impressive feat considering Mr. California was going against 3 songwriting geniuses (and Ringo) single-handedly. Wilson worked so furiously, with such an excruciating level of perfectionism, that he eventually drove himself into the life of a recluse and addiction. When he finally released a version of the album with a reworked band in 2004, to great critical acclaim, even he had to admit that it was different than what he had wanted as a final product, but it needed to be completed. The original recording sessions did, however yield “Good Vibrations”, widely regarded as one of the most ambitious and greatest songs of all time.

Dr. Dre- Detox

Since Chronic 2001 came out, every single fan of hip-hop has been waiting on Detox. Dre is the only rapper other than Biggie to have 2 universally accepted perfect albums to his name with no misses. But in the 14 years since 2001 (which came out in 1999, for those of you who might be trying to check my math), the level of hype surrounding this album has reached a point very familiar to those of us who waited almost this long for the album that proved us wrong last time. So far we’ve been teased with release dates in 2001, 2005, 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012. Those of us who don’t like metaphorical blue balls have long given up hope. But there are still plenty of people who rabidly await its official drop, and even more who are vehement critics of an album that has had a total of 2 songs released, which probably won’t make the album now, since they’re stale. There was demand for the album when “Under Pressure” and “I Need a Doctor” came out of nowhere (sounding not too shabby and surprisingly catchy, respectively). Now, having waited twice as long for the third installment as we did for the second, if it’s anything less than perfect, it seems it will be hated into oblivion.

Guns’N’Roses- Chinese Democracy

Similar to Detox, this is another album that had seen its date pushed back more times than a guy asking a girl out who really doesn’t want to but is just too damn nice to say no. There was evmore false hope for Axl Rose’s brainchild than Detox though, because G’N’R had released 5 albums in the 6 years prior to the start of its recording in 1994. After numerous lineup changes (some member’s exit being credited to the totalitarian atmosphere and requirement of absolute perfection from their frontman), vague utterings from the studio, and a couple teases with live performances, the album finally came out in 2008. It sold well due to droves of loyal fans, but was a C+ level effort at best (Leading to this writer’s lifelong rule of never trusting anyone who wears an empty bucket of chicken on his damn head.)

How his Mother never beat him, I'll never know...

Jay Electronica- Act II:  Patents of Nobility (The Turn)

After gaining attention outside of his Southern demographic with the most ambitious song ever by an unsigned rapper with 2007’s Act I: Eternal Sunshine (The Pledge), Jay Electronica has signed with Roc Nation, released a certified classic with “Exhibit C” (the most “freestyled on” beat ever. EVER.), and put out some pretty solid guest verses for a varied group of artists in that time (including a widely overlooked closer on “Control”. Going after Kendrick must suck.), he’s put out a couple of songs to hype his Roc Nation project, but hasn’t even flirted with the idea of a release date yet. With the hype level he has at the moment, it would be wise for him to strike within the next 18 months or so, because unproven rappers with lofty expectations are often met with a fickle response by the average hip-hop fan (*cough*Papoose*cough*).

Andre 3000- (As Of Yet Untitled Album)

This is probably the most aggravating entry on this list. 3 Stacks has been recording at a steady, if somewhat slow pace since Outkast’s 2006 project Idlewild. Musically, he’s proven to be as ambitious as Brian Wilson time and time again, most notably on his half of Speakerboxx/The Love Below, which won them Album of the Year. He’s touched on funk, jazz, blues, pop, R&B, and spoken word, often all on the same album. And his features are usually a surprise, and always on a level no one in the game can compete with. (See: “Walk It Out”, “Throw Some D’s”, “Green Light”, and “You”).  There has been a demand for a solo album as far back as anyone can remember, but Mr. Benjamin has always been vocal about taking time off of music to focus on his acting, children’s show, and fashion ventures. But with the recent reports of a release date for early next year, and the widespread anger after the rumor was dispelled the next day, it’s clear the demand will be there, and judging by his output, the content will be too. Note to all future artists: if you like releasing music frequently, DO NOT sleep with Erykah Badu.

No!

Lauryn Hill/D’Angelo- (As Of Yet Untitled Albums)

I’m coupling these two together, because the albums have had similar trajectories, and I expect the same results. After each releasing amazing debuts (“Miseducation” and “Brown Sugar”), these two took a sabbatical (4 and 7 years, respectively) before coming out with a follow-up (“Unplugged” and “Voodoo” (Although it might not count to some, “Unplugged” was all original material, and it’s my article, so I’ll allow it.). They both then fell off the cultural map, returning briefly to tour before encountering legal trouble. Although they have both released tracks sparingly in recent years, the demand seems to be there if either can finish a record. A joint album could be a good option, with these two already having a duet on Hill’s “Nothing Even Matters”. If the work is sub-par however, it’s very possible their album’s will be swept under the rug and compared to contemporary chart-toppers like Adele and Frank Ocean.  The evidence seems to say that a long wait isn’t unbearable to fans, providing that the work is up to snuff. It seems to come down to the artists for whether or not they have the confidence to produce and release what they deem acceptable. Out of all the people on this list who haven’t released their albums yet, I don’t believe all of them do (feel free to disagree.) My predictions are as follows:

• Dr. Dre: C+/B- (with A level beats)
• Jay Electronica: A- (but only to his fan base)
• Andre 3000: A/A+ (Editor’s note: I’m biased as hell on this one.)
• Lauryn Hill: B/B+ (depending on guests)
• D’Angelo: B- (due to obscure subject matter)

Feel free to offer your opinions/predictions in the comments.

Poetic Expressions: Divorce

By: Ladie Leblanc

www.ladieleblanc.com

 Through pain filled eyes I look at his and still see the love 

With a heart that is breaking with each pen stroke, I can see that his is too 

Grinding teeth and clinched jaws, sealed lips, and tears pushed back, I stand my guard 

This thing that he wanted is now a reality and now I can see the regret etched in his face and mine will remain still like a giesha's make up not one line misplaced 

Chattering attorneys and the works while he and I can both see and feel real hurt 

I will not give this time he will 

I begged, I pleaded, I apologized and he just continually lied 

I cried, prayed, and was very afraid 

He was nonchalant and the words flowed from his mouth like minute maid 

Now he is the one who looks afraid and I'm waiting on better days 

Glares from his eyes like I wanted his demise but I keep my poker face and repeated quietly to myself real eyes recognize real lies!

What I see now is truth but to stop the hurt and pain I left that up to you 

Too strong to admit he maybe a little weak and too weak to keep his strength and stand on his own two feet

The confidence I lacked before was given by you and the truth you so called spoke repeated to you isn't so sweet

Now while sitting in this office papers and pens handy and all the attorneys ready making deals and throwing threats, I can see your heart quickens with every pen stroke and suddenly all the clearing of your throat 

Waiting to see will you muster up the strength and courage to let your thoughts be heard My stare glides past your eyes and almost straight at your soul

"STOP" is spoken slightly above a whisper...and then his pain suddenly became mine! 

Live.Laugh.Learn: The Encounter

By: Lara Lettsome

Life should be about letting go, being free and growing into who you are meant to be.  Follow the young character, Karlie Sims, as she attempts to transition into life after school in a new city; without all of her friends and family.

Antonio is a young man with an unexpected past. Karlie is a woman with a developing unexpected future. The present moments brings them together. Of course love will be an option, but are they ready to Live, Laugh and Learn? 

Click HERE to read Chapter 1: Realize, Honey...

~*~ CHAPTER 2 ~*~

THE ENCOUNTER

When I got there, I set up my membership and receive a free assessment. They also gave me a free diet plan and coupons to protein powders. I think I love this place already. The set up was beautiful. The light wood floors and rock looking plastered walls gave it a feel as if I wasn’t in a gym. It was pretty serene; I felt more like I was in a high roofed cave. I went into the locker room, changed, locked up my belongings, grabbed my water and went into the weight room. I began to walk on the treadmill listening to work out plan by Kanye West. As much as I wanted to rap each lyric out loud, I kept my composure. I slightly browsed my surroundings. There weren’t many people in the weight room at the 7 o’clock hour. Maybe everyone was in that Hot Yoga class that started at 6:30.  The song changed to a Lil Boosie hit as I smiled. Me and Katie use to cut up to this song.

My eyes peered left as someone was getting on a treadmill two machines down. I did a double take and stopped to look. It was a young man with medium brown bronzed skin. It looked warm and clear of imperfections.  He was probably 6’3. His sleeves had been cut off of his t-shirt exposing his triceps and biceps. He turned and looked at me staring at him. He smiled. GOT DAMN he smiled. His teeth were so white and straight. I had braces for 4 years; mines didn’t come out looking like that. He winked just before he turned his head to turn his machine on. I have a serious starring problem.

My treadmill started to come to a stop, as my 30 minute walk came to an end. I got off the machine, grabbed my water and as I started to walk out of the weight room I scanned his hands. There was a band on his wedding hand, on his ring finger. Go figure, I knew something that fine had to be taken.  

That night when I got home he was the star of my dreams.

Life is so crazy, it seems like everything you want is never for you. 

*Click HERE to read the second part of The Encounter!* 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week; Spring 2014

New York City hosted yet another successful Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (MBFW), last week.  MBFW is held twice a year (February and September), at the Lincoln Center in New York City.  Buyers, Editors, Retailers and Celebrities travel from all over the world to view collections from some of the industries top designers.  MBFW lasts for a total of 8 days, featuring over 80 designers, with several shows taking place each day.  If you are a fashion lover, then this is obviously the place to be if you're looking for the skinny on the hottest trends for next season.

Last week, attendees of MFBW were able to view runway shows, featuring designers such as BCBGMAXAZRIA, Rebecca Minkoff, DKNY and more.  Shows typically run in hour increments, with the first one starting around 8 or 9am, with the last one starting 12 hours later.

We've kept our eyes on all of the shows, and wanted to share our favorite looks for Spring 2014, straight from the runway!

Tory Burch

Tracy Reese

Supima

Nicole Miller

David Tlale

David Tlale

Diane von Furstenberg

Diane von Furstenberg

Micheal Kors

Rebecca Minkoff

*Photo Credit

Which Spring 2014 runway style are you coveting?

Music Musings: Jay Z's MCHG

By: DJ Hayes

Sinatra, Elvis, The Beatles. Few artists have achieved such levels of notoriety that when you mention their era of music, chances are one of their songs starts playing in the back of your head. When talking about the biggest genre of the last two decades, hip hop, there are a few artists up for contention for that kind of acclaim, but if we're honest with ourselves, it's only a list of one: Jay-Z.

His latest offering is the very presumptuously titled "Magna Carta Holy Grail". With an album title like that, the expectations couldn't be loftier, unless he went with the original title "Bible Torah Constitution". Sadly, although the album is fun, it doesn't reach those standards the name suggests.

The problem is not a lack of quality material, it's the reluctance to challenge the audience consistently. When mentioning art, why only artists of such drastic levels of notoriety? When name dropping musicians, why only household names? We all know that Jay's level of knowledge on these subjects is much deeper than the average person, or at least he's been exposed to much more than most. If he was truly passionate about these fields, why barely skim the surface of talent pool? In the age of google, if Hov were to have a line discussing the ignorance of Manet to Monet, everyone who listened and DIDN'T know a difference immediately would be compelled to google it immediately, or else risk the dreaded "Badge of Cultural Ignorance". With as much power as this man has over the opinions of the culture, he has some responsibility to push the envelope, not casually waft his hand towards it and see how far it flutters.

When you get to a track by track breakdown, nothing really stood out to me a month after listening, aside from the two songs I hear regularly at the club "Holy Grail" and "Tom Ford". The latter has the best effort at an adult theme on the album, which comes in the hook. "I don't pop molly's, I rock Tom Ford." Quite simple, I'm not in business strictly to attain pleasure, Business IS my pleasure. When every rapper out is talking about their new favorite party drug, Jay's on his grown man hustle. He even dropped the hyphen, which makes it more business card friendly. "Holy Grail", on the other hand, shine strictly because of the hook. A haunting melody that could have stood on it's own, or better yet, with a song about longing that reflects the simple confusion of the lyrics. if you were to exclude the song title from the end of the chorus, it becomes unrelated to the song, even with the "cup runneth over" line prior intact. This hook was written by The-Dream 2 years ago, and it's obvious why Jay wanted it. No matter what lyrical content you back it up with in the verses, the hook wins. But instead of rising to the challenge, Jay napped and allowed the strength of the writing and Timberlake's singing take over, much as he did on Timberlake's "Suit and Tie".

Other songs on the album, such as "Picasso Baby" and "Fuckwitmeyouknowigotit", are as hook heavy and beat reliant, but somehow have replay value for being perfectly executed songs that fit exactly the boundaries of what you're used to hearing on the radio at the moment. As for the other guests spots on the album, they come across a little forced. "Oceans" features Frank Ocean, not only providing a weird feeling in my gut regarding the name, but also ANOTHER Basquiat reference, bringing the album's total to roughly 7. He's more or less unnecessary on the chorus, leading one to nbelieve he's on there strictly to add to the features list for hype. "Part II" on the other hand, features Ms. Carter herself, in some soft attempt to cash in on the nostalgia factor of "03 Bonnie and Clyde". The song is poorly placed, taking away what little carry over energy the songs prior had given the listener. Lyrically, I'm at a loss to think of any bars that stick out throughout the whole album. Every verse is interchangeable within the album, owing to the lack of diversity of subject matter. That's not necessarily saying they're bad verses, but they fall in the realm of "lackluster" and only occasionally make it as far as "memorable". Maybe it's time for Jay to start using a pen and paper.

This will never be an album I feel an urge to listen to a few years down the road, like I do with "The Blueprint", "Reasonable Doubt", "The Black Album", or even something less than superb like "Blueprint 3". Overall, it feels like a collection of songs that could have been filler for "Watch The Throne". So maybe Jay's not becoming a hip hop version of a Beatle after all. I'd say with his recent lack of risk in his music, he's becoming more of a hip hop Elvis: completely deserving of his former title of biggest artist out, and always relevant because of his best work. But now he's dangerously close of entering the latter years: aging, fat, and making half assed attempts to stay in the spotlight rather than fade into the public consciousness gracefully. I will admit to this. though: if a 50 lb heavier, horrendously dressed Hova had a concert in Hawaii, we all know we'd be compelled to watch it.

Poetic Expressions: Loveless Culture

By: Ladie Leblanc
www.ladieleblanc.com

A son sees his estranged mother at the age he is a grown man
A daughter that doesn’t know a mothers love only because the relationship slips through her hands like grains of sand.
Love doesn’t find a place to live where hatred is nurtured
Love can’t find its way in a loveless culture.

A mother doesn’t see her little girl but a tool to please a man
A father that doesn’t care how his actions hurt and to the eyes of children it’s a pain they don’t understand.
Love doesn’t find a place to live where hatred is nurtured
Love can’t find its way in a loveless culture.

A wife that is so afraid of abandonment that she can’t seem to keep her relationship because she breaks it down with her own hands
A husband that is tired of fighting something that he doesn’t understand.
Love doesn’t find a place to live where hatred is nurtured
Love can’t find its way in a loveless culture.

A girl afraid to disappoint anyone keeps a secret that will only undo her sanity in the end
A boy that knows his mistake but is forced to overlook his own sins.
Love doesn’t find a place to live where hatred is nurtured
Love can’t find its way in a loveless culture.

An uncle that knows it’s not right but lets his wife wheeled his hand
An aunt that has mental issues and refuses to take her meds.

Love not only doesn’t find a place to live where hatred is nurtured
Love can’t even exist in a loveless culture.

Live.Laugh.Learn: Realize, Honey

By: Lara Lettsome

Life should be about letting go, being free and growing into who you are meant to be.  Follow the young character, Karlie Sims, as she attempts to transition into life after school in a new city; without all of her friends and family.

Antonio is a young man with an unexpected past. Karlie is a woman with a developing unexpected future. The present moments brings them together. Of course love will be an option, but are they ready to Live, Laugh and Learn? 

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~*~CHAPTER ONE ~*~

REALIZE, HONEY

(Karlie)

Sitting at my desk, I imagine everything but actually being at work.

To be honest, I don’t even know what I do at this place; I just know I make a lot of money doing it.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my new job and all, but this move to this city so far from my friends and family is really starting to take its toll on me. I’m so homesick that I can hardly think straight. I wish I could just go catch a lunch with Coco or go get into some wild trouble with Katie; but I can’t. Instead, they are enjoying the benefits of being together, while I took on this sick adventure 1000 miles away. I look at the clock. GOT DAMN, I still have two hours left. I shake my head in disbelief.  This has to be the longest Wednesday in history! I leave my desk and walk to the break room to get another cup of water as one of my coworker walks into my peripheral and put’s something into the refrigerator. I turn to face them, to get a glance of who it was. It was one of the older ladies that I had seen every once in a while. After a month, I still hadn’t made any friends. I figured I should give it a try, I was pretty desperate and she seemed like a sweetheart. She moved to the coffee cup and I scoped her out, she was of African American decent, with short grey curls. She reminded me of Coretta Scott. I asked her how her day was going.

She pauses and gave me a quick look up and down, “You are new here aren’t you?”

I tucked loose strands of my hair behind my ear and sighed, “Obvious?”

She giggled “Only the new kids wear business formal here” she smiled, “where are you from?”

I looked at my stockings and back up at her “California, graduated from UCLA”

One of her eyebrows flexed up, “I hope you didn’t spend a pretty penny there, these companies don’t care to much were you went, more so if you finished”

I took a sip of my water, feeling a moment of transference from her statement, “That sounds like something my daddy would say”.

She picked up her coffee cup with her right hand and with her left hand she patted my shoulder, “If you are going to work here, I suggest you get some hobbies". She started to walk towards the door, “You are single with no kid’s right?”

I squinted my eyes, is this lady psychic or something? How do elders know everything?

She continued, “No use in being here and letting your life pass you by. You are more than your work. Join a gym, a church, and volunteer; make friends. Live and Laugh AND NEVER EVER forget to LOVE.”

She left the break room and I followed about a minute later. I sat at my desk thinking about what she said.

By the time the clock said I could be dismissed, I had made up my mind that I was going to see what memberships the gym had to offer me. Who knew, I could even learn to enjoy working out. I always wanted a nice stomach to fit all this booty anyway. With all of this extra time on my hands, I might as well do something more active than taking my lifetime companion, my beloved Shiba Inu, Jiggy for short walks.

I left work and went home. I opened the back door and let Jiggy out into the back yard to bark, jump, run and poop, while I packed a gym bag. I let him back inside and went to get into my 2013 graduation present; my exclusive cream color Audi.  I sat there realizing that though I thought this far, I hadn’t exactly looked into a gym. I had no clue where I was going out here. I grabbed my phone and yelped the gyms in the area. 24 hour Fitness? Sound like that is for work out freaks, who works out for 24 hours?  Balleys? That sounds like a restaurant. Curves? Sounds like too much estrogen in one place. Golds Gym? That’s got to be where the muscle meat heads go. Bodies? Well, now that sounds sexy! I WANT TO GET SEXY. This might be the place.  

I went to my browser and did a search for Bodies and came up on their website. They offered all of the coolest new workouts including pole dancing class, hot yoga, rock climbing and capoweta. Not only that, but they had an amazing Jacuzzi and steam room. I was sold. I turned on my car and proceeded to see what Bodies was about.

*Click HERE to read Chapter 2: The Encounter!* 

Transitioning Your Closet for Fall

By: Reign Boxley-Martin

It’s that time of year again!  Time to begin transitioning your closet for Fall.  While it is still too warm to even think about long sleeves and jackets, the season is upon us and the weather will be cooling down before we know it.

What better time than now to begin the process of transitioning your closet to Fall, especially now that the Fall fashion trends have been released and stores have begun to switch their inventory accordingly!

Most simply dread the process of cleaning or reprogramming their closet for the upcoming season, so we’ve come up with a simple process to ensure a smooth, but fashionable transition as we head into Fall.

•  Fall Fashion:  Decide and make a quick mental note of the Fall trends you want to follow.  Make this process easy by creating a list of the pieces that you need to purchase in order to achieve the looks you have envisioned.  Go ahead and begin shopping for these items as soon as you are ready.  Keep in mind that this may be a work in progress, as time or money may not allow for one shopping spree.

•  Closet Assessment #1:  Quickly review the items in your closet to determine if there are any staples that you should add to your list.  Don’t spend a ton of time on this assessment, as you will need to come back and review again after you added/removed pieces based on the closet purge and/or fall shopping.

• Closet Purge: While it is a good idea to clean and update your closet on a regular basis, you must be selective.  The rule of thumb would be to only purge those super trendy items that you know you won’t wear again.  Keep in mind that you will need staples to go back to the new Fall Fashions that you have picked out in Step #1!  Basic tanks and short sleeve tops should remain in your closet, since you can easily throw on a cardigan or blazer to make them more Fall appropriate.  Short skirts and shorts can be paired back to tights/leggings and boots, so you would definitely be doing yourself a disservice by purging these pieces “just because”.

• Closet Assessment #2: Once you have purged those items that you will never wear again, take some time to take inventory of what you have left.  It’s always a good idea to begin thinking of new ways to wear the remaining pieces for the new season.  You should also be thinking of how the new, Fall friendly pieces that you will purchase from Step #1, will pair back to what you have left in your closet.

Keep in mind that this is not necessarily and A-Z process, and won’t be completed overnight.  You may find yourself returning to any of these steps at any point.  Try not to get frustrated…just think of how your hard work will result in a closet that is both fashionable and easy to work with.

Have you started the Fall transition?  If not, when do you plan to start?