Song Of The Day: "Keep Risin' To The Top" By Doug E. Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew

There is no explanation needed for how smooth and timeless this hip hop classic is.

Have a great and safe July 4th!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Work It Out" By Monie Love

This is one of a few summer classics that I still love to listen to.

Anyway, for those (like me) who have one more day on the job before celebrating July 4th, make sure you work it out and have a great Tuesday doing it!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Go Get It" by Mary Mary

Being blessed to see another Monday come around, make sure you seize the week and grab the blessings that await you.

Have a great Monday!

CC
XOXOXO

Music Is The Heart Of The Man

Something I wanted to share from my daily journal...

Listening to some of today's music saddens me as there isn't much quality content or overall talent put into it anymore.  As a matter of fact, the two major components I just stated above are nearly non-existent.

I once read that Lucifer was the minister of music in Heaven before being cast into Hell 1.  The older I'm becoming, the more I'm realizing that he is in control of today's music that's being sold and played over the airwaves.  Just turn on any popular or urban radio station and you'll hear it in the downright disrespectful lyrics laced with profanity which are full of content about sexuality, killing, stealing, and destroying.  This is the reason I don't listen to or buy anymore of most of the artists' (who shall remain nameless) CD's that I have bought in the past.  It gets to a point that no matter how popular or good-looking an artist is, enough is enough of the same old tired lyrical content.

The thing that really pulls at my heart strings are the "so-called" parents who play this trash in front of their children and think it's cute when the kids sing along to it.  In my opinion (which I'm entitled to), I believe the majority of lyrics are what contributes to crime, selfishness, casual sex, unfaithfulness in relationships/marriages, misogyny, open use of profanity in public, disrespect towards others, and the regular consumption of drugs and alcohol.  But am I sitting here proclaiming that I'm perfect and have never done one or more of these things in my past?  No, because (1) everyone has a past and (2) I, myself, am wiser now and understand that I have a choice in the life I lead.  I also realize that the life I lead starts with what I allow to become a part of me.

When I was growing up, I recall how my grandma (R.I.P.) would react to me and my younger sister watching music videos or listening to the radio when we would visit or stay overnight with her.  She would quickly make us change the station and scold us in a firm but loving tone that what we were watching or listening to could become a part of us.  However, she would make exceptions if it was Michael Jackson (as long as it wasn't "Thriller" in her house-lol) or New Edition.  As I look back over a course of 30+ years, I clearly understand what she meant by her statement.

With today's technology, I am thankful for internet radio stations such as Pandora (my favorite) and Slacker Radio.  I listen to a lot of oldies or music from my day (a phrase my parents love to use to describe what they listened to during their younger years).  I also listen to Jazz, New Age, and Ska.  Other times, I love to listen to artists like Maxwell, Chrisette Michele, Lyfe, D'Angelo, Ledisi, and Kem to name a few that keep quality music alive and well.  The only drawback is that, a lot of times, artists of their kind who don't compromise their talent for a quick buck or popularity in the mainstream causes them not to be high on the charts; however, they are high on the charts in my heart.

People need to start taking notice of the lack of quality in today's music.  If they don't, things may only get worse and divide us even more instead of uniting us as music was meant to do in the first place.  Music is the 2nd universal language of love.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Sugar Free" By Juicy

I remember when my daddy would take the family on Sunday drives and blast this. 

Have a great Sunday and week.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Candy Man" By The Mary Jane Girls

Saturday morning cleaning music at its best!

Make it a great day!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Last Night A DJ Saved My Life" By Indeep

C-L-A-S-S-I-C!  Between this track and later seeing the original Spinderella back in the day, they were what made me wanna be a DJ. 

Have a great Friday and weekend!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "The Real Thing" By Lisa Stansfield

I'm a huge fan of British Soul Music and the soul is spread thick on this one!  I first heard it on the "Money Talks" soundtrack 15 years ago and it's been my fave Lisa Stansfield song ever since. It does wonders for getting me out of a bad mood. 

Enjoy your Thursday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Midas Touch" By Midnight Star

It's feel-good Wednesday so it's fitting to select a feel-good song.  Make it a great day!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Roses Are Red" By The Mac Band

Great memories of my junior year in high school whenever I play this!  It is definitely a timeless classic...yeah, yeah...yeah, yeah, yeah.

Have a great Tuesday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Heaven Can Wait" by Michael Jackson (#1)

Three years ago on this day, the entertainment world suffered a devastating and sudden loss of the greatest entertainer of all time: the INCREDIBLE Michael Jackson. 

Before his passing, this track had become my all-time favorite Michael Jackson song after I purchased "Invincible" during its first week of release.  I immediately put this song on repeat the first time I listened to it because I love the strings in it and the raw passion in his voice; but besides that, this song has always put me in some type of place that I will never be able to explain.  In my opinion, this is the most underrated song he's ever released. 

Until Michael died, I never felt such a painful loss when it came to celebrities (although I did cry when Gerald LeVert passed).  As a matter of fact, my whole family was touched in one way or another because this was Michael Jackson.  I even have an older cousin who nicknamed me Michael Jackson from the time I was a little girl and said I was the first one she thought about when he passed.  This alone shows how he's been a major part of my life and will continue to be forever.

To all of the MJ fans all over the world: today is a day to celebrate the life and legacy of The King Of Pop so let's rep him and do it big on today!  And like he sings, "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"!

Love you more, Michael!!!!

CC

XOXOXO



Song Of The Day: "You Are Not Alone" by Michael Jackson (#2)

This song is dedicated to the memory of my grandmother, Annie Ruth Thomas, who transitioned into my guardian angel on June 24, 2005.

Have a blessed Sunday.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "P.Y.T." by Michael Jackson/Soul Train Line (#3)

This song isn't about looks only; it's about a way of life and having fun as only Michael could incorporate into many of his songs. 

As we celebrate the life of the greatest artist of all time on this weekend, groove on down your soul train lines to his music.

Love, peace, and soooooooul on this Saturday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Off The Wall" by Michael Jackson (#4)

This is the ultimate kick-off to the weekend joint!  If you don't dance or chair-dance when this comes on, just turn it off and don't even worry about it.

Make it a great weekend and be safe while you live life off the wall!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Remember The Time" By Michael Jackson (#5)

I still remember the Sunday night that my family and I gathered around the TV to watch the world premiere of this 20 years ago; it still feels like it happened last night.  The song, itself, is hot thanks to the genius production of legendary producer, Teddy Riley.  Now as far as the video, the choreography was classic and I don't even have to speak on Mike's smile at the end.

Make it a great Thursday and remember all the good times you've had thus far.

CC
XOXOXO 

Song Of The Day: "Baby Be Mine" by Michael Jackson (#6)

A feel good classic!  This song automatically makes me smile each time I play it.  And I love the way his voice breaks a couple of times throughout the song although I'm not sure if it was done purposely; but whether it was or wasn't, it fits the song perfectly.

Smile and have a happy Hump Day!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Lady In My Life" by Michael Jackson (#7)

It goes without saying that this is one of my most favorite Michael Jackson songs...

Have a great Tuesday.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Break Of Dawn" by Michael Jackson (#8)



The first time I heard this song...Michael had me going, "Whewww."  I didn't think he had it in him like THAT.

Anyhoo, as we all rise to the break of dawn on this Monday morning, remember to make it a great one!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson (#9)

Twenty-nine years later from the first time I watched this at the age of nine years old up to now, and I still feel like the little girl who fell from like into love with this man and his performance! 

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Who Is It" by Michael Jackson (#10)

I don't know if it's the strings, the lyrics, or the haunting bass line, but there's just something about this song that I've always loved from the first time I listened to it.  And don't EVEN get me going on how I jam to it (and throw my own moves in) when I play The Michael Jackson Experience on my Wii.  All I can say is this tune gets me going every time.

Have a beautiful Saturday!

CC
XOXOXO

R.I.P. Yvette Wilson

My heart is so broken on this morning along with other long-time fans, friends, and family of the late, great Yvette Wilson who passed from cervical cancer on last night at the young age of 48.  It was just a little over a month ago that I read that she was battling not only cervical cancer, but was in need of a kidney transplant as well.

Her passing has hit close to home for me for two reasons: (1) I would be told from time to time, by total strangers, that I resembled her and (2) Even though I have always and continue to have my regular yearly paps, back in 2008 when I was only 35 years old, my gynecologist discovered that I had abnormal cells on my cervix. 

Needless to say, I was a nervous wreck in between the tests and biopsy I had to have over the course of 3 months to make sure that the cells that kept recurring on my cervix weren't cancerous.  But I thank God that I come from a praying family that gave me a lot of support during this time span.  After all the tests and biopsy was completed, I was given the good news that I didn't have anything to worry about.  Since then, I continue to get checked and continue to be blessed with not having cancerous cells when I have my yearly exam with the last one being this past January and an ultrasound in February as a part of further tests.  Thank you, Jesus!  

However, this blog is not about me, it's about the bubbly and beautiful
Ms. Wilson and other women who are currently battling or have lost their battle to this horrific disease including one of my grandmother's older sisters who lost her battle before she reached the age of 50 back in 1977 (R.I.P.).  As of 2012, according to the National Cancer Institute there have been 12,170 new cases of cervical cancer and 4,220 deaths reported.  This is definitely not a good thing.

We all need to continue to pray and hope that there will be a cure to this deadly disease ASAP!  We are losing too many family and friends to it and this needs to stop now.

But in the meantime, let's cherish the memories of a talented and hilarious lady who I'm sure have had the angels in heaven rolling since she arrived.  The curtains may have went down on her life here on earth, but in our Father's house, the spotlight on her beautiful soul is shining bigger and brighter than it ever has before and will do so for all of eternity.  R.I.P. Sister Girl.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" by Michael Jackson (#11)

I love, love, LOVE this song!  I still remember the summer of '87 (August to be exact which was the month after I turned 14) when my favorite radio station at the time world premiered this as the lead single for "Bad" which was set to be released in a few weeks.  I was sitting up front with my mother as she drove (since it was my turn--lol) while my younger sister who was 10 at the time was in the back seat.  I remember my sister and I squealing and squalling like idiots while Michael sang.  That's when my mother told me that she already knew she was going to have to take me to the record store to get "Bad" as soon as it was released.  And she did just that in the weeks that led up to it after picking me up from school.

One of many childhood memories I will ALWAYS cherish.

TGIF!!!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Stranger In Moscow" by Michael Jackson (#12)

I've been to this place more than once, but it makes me a stronger person each time I'm there.

It's cliche, I know, but remember: what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Wanna Be Starting Something" by Michael Jackson (#13)

"Lift your head up high/And scream out to the world/I know I am someone/And let the truth unfurl/No one can hurt you now/'Cause you know it's true/Yes, I believe in me/So you believe in you..." These lyrics have stuck with me since I was 10 years old when I memorized them from the album insert.

If you wanna start something today, let it be something positive that you will also finish on this lovely Wednesday.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Come Together" by Michael Jackson (#14)

I love the grittiness of Michael's voice on this.  And the guitar line is the icing on the cake!

Make sure to come together with those you love on this Tuesday.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "One More Chance" by Michael Jackson (#15)

We've all been given one more chance by being blessed to see another day.

Make this Monday count.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Liberian Girl" by Michael Jackson (#16)

From the age of 14 when I bought the "Bad" album with my allowance, this has ALWAYS been one of my absolute favorite songs by this man.  I remember lifting the needle on this one selection to play numerous times.  And the video...when he smiles at the end???  I STILL get all warm inside when he does it.  The guy was always beautiful to me both inside and out; especially when he would smile!

Okay, enough about my childhood crush on The King Of Pop.

Make your Sunday a great one!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Dirty Diana" by Michael Jackson (#17)

YAAAAASSSSSS...the sexy side of Michael!

Make it a Sexy (but tasteful) Saturday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Get On The Floor" by Michael Jackson (#18)

This song is so much fun to listen and dance to!  And I adore the way he laughs near the ending...too cute.

Make this Friday all about fun and laughter.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "D.S." by Michael Jackson (#19)

Mike and Slash go hard on this one! 

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Will You Be There" by Michael Jackson (#20)

One word: CHURCH! 

Be inspired and make this Wednesday a great one!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "I Can't Let Her Get Away" by Michael Jackson (#21)

This song right here...!  I remember the days of dancing hard to this one when it would come on (and I still try to when I listen to it now, but mama's bones ain't what they used to be).

Anyhoo, have a great Tuesday!

CC

XOXOXO 

Song Of The Day: "Music And Me" by Michael Jackson (#22)

If there was ever a song I could relate to, this is it (hey...cool play on words).  This song describes the relationship I've had with music for as long as I can remember.  My mother has told me about the times beginning around the age of two of how I would sit on the floor next to one of our stereo's speakers in silence and listen to different albums that she and my father would listen to for hours on end until I would fall asleep. 

There is nothing like music to get me through each day that I'm blessed with.  It will always be my first love.

CC
XOXOXO

The 21st Day!

Earlier today I realized that I have made it to day 21 of going without any type of cheese on my "30-Day No Cheese Challenge". I would have never thought I could go this long without it. But I won't sit here and say that I haven't been tempted a few times because I have. However, it makes me so proud of myself that I haven't given in up to this point.  Besides, I actually feel much better without it.

I decided to do this challenge for health reasons as well as weight loss.  During my last doctor visit, he informed me that my cholesterol reading wasn't a good one.  Now I'm not making any excuses but I've struggled with cholesterol issues for some time now as it runs in my family: my parents, younger sister, and maternal grandmother all deal with the same struggle and we all take medication(s) for it.  I automatically knew my #1 culprit was cheese which has been my weakness for as long as I can remember because I usually eat it on nearly everything.

During this challenge, it has made me realize that I can truly discipline myself in other areas of my life now that I've struggled with in the past.  This is a great thing for my well-being. 

I only have 9 more days to go on this journey. And who knows...maybe I won't even want any more cheese after I get past day 30! :)

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Whatever Happens" by Michael Jackson (#23)

I love this song for three reasons: 1) It's Michael Jackson; 2) It has the Western movie theme to it (one of my favorite movie genres); and 3) It has a personal spiritual meaning.

The spiritual meaning is my favorite reason for the song because, for me, whenever I'm going through a tough period, I sometimes think of this one particular tune and use it as an opportunity for being reminded of God telling me to never let go of His hand no matter what happens.

Make it a great Sunday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "I Can't Help It" by Michael Jackson (#24)

So it's unbelievable that the music world is coming up on the 3rd anniversary of the passing of an astoundingly talented man who has given music lovers all over the world a lifetime of music: the incredible Michael Jackson.

For the next 24 days I'll be counting down my most favorite songs by him (even though it's not enough time to post ALL of my favorite MJ songs).

 

Everything about this song...when I'm feeling stressed out or need some good work along to music, I quickly select this one placing it on repeat.  Before I know it, I'm in a better place.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Funky Sensation" by Gwen McCrae

Can ya feel it?  It's Fridayyyy, so make it a great one!!!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Little Things" by Boyz II Men

One of life's biggest lessons.  Make today a great one.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Roll With It" by Steve Winwood

Well it's about that time for those of us returning to work on today to roll with it.  Make it a great Tuesday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Bring The Boys Home" by Freda Payne

Let's remember those who have lost their lives for our freedom in the USA not only on today as we observe Memorial Day, but every day.  And let us also keep those who are still fighting for us in our daily prayers. 

I send a personal thank you to all of the brave soldiers in every military branch.  Words can't express how grateful I am for your services.  God bless and keep you all.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Beautiful U R" by Deborah Cox

My favorite affirmation when I look in the mirror each morning. :)  Let it be yours too.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Marathon" by Kelis

This is at the top of my list of favorite Kelis songs...

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Weekend Thing" by Koffee Brown

It' Fridayyyyyy and the kick-off to Memorial Day weekend!  Be safe, have fun, and most of all celebrate responsibly.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Keep On" by James "D-Train" Williams

Here's an inspirational classic for an inspirational day.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Let Me Return The Favor" by Andrea Martin

An even better feeling is returning a favor that you haven't received yet.  Do things for others because you're able to and not because you're looking for something in return.

Make it a great day today!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Running Song" by Amber Sunshower

Have a wonderful day!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "How Deep Is Your Love" by The Bee Gees (RIP Robin Gibb)

For as long as I can remember, each time I watch "Saturday Night Fever" I always anticipate the ending scene when the sun rises as this song begins to play.

I also remember when my younger sister and I were little girls, we always said that this would be our wedding song.

However, this morning holds bittersweet memories as the music world has lost yet another legend: Mr. Robin Gibb.  May he RIP.

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Every Day Of The Week" by Jade

Make it a great week!

CC
XOXOXO

My Work Out Or Rather "Dance Out" Playlist

So it's about that time for me to get some things tight and right again. I've decided to dance my extra pounds off that I gained over the past year instead of "working out". 

I joined myfitnesspal.com a week ago and have been using My Fitness Coach for Wii and The Michael Jackson Experience for Wii as well.  That's when I realized I was having more fun dancing along with Michael in addition to doing my toning exercises and crunches.

I finally finished my "dance out" playlist to start using later on this morning when I wake up and cannot WAIT:

1) Turn My Back On You - Sade
2) Lose Yourself - Eminem
3) Eye of the Tiger - Survivor
4) Mama Said Knock You Out - LL Cool J
5) My Life - TLC
6) Holla Back Girl - Gwen Stefani
7) No Matter What They Say - Lil' Kim
8) We Run This - Missy Elliott
9) Workout - J Cole
10) PYT - Michael Jackson
11) Get Into the Groove - Madonna
12) Party Up - DMX
13) Get Up - Ciara f/Chamillionaire
14) Go Deep - Janet Jackson
15) Maniac - Michael Sembello
16) Take Your Hand - Usher
17) One of Those Days - Whitney Houston
18) Work It Out - Monie Love
19) On Our Own (Remix) - Bobby Brown
20) All Night Long - Faith Evans f/Puff Daddy

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Come And Talk To Me" by Jodeci

Fellas, this is the way a woman would like to be approached.  Take note...

Have a great day!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Heaven Knows" by Donna Summer & Brooklyn Dreams

I'm still in shock over yesterday's loss of a beautiful queen with the true voice of an angel, Donna Summer.  Being a fan of her music since childhood, I remember how my parents looooved this song which of course rubbed off on me.  Ms. Summer is a legend who will never be forgotten.

With that being said, tomorrow isn't promised to any of us, so tell the ones you love how much they mean to you while they're here with you.  Have a great weekend.

Song Of The Day: "Block Party" by Chuck Brown f/DJ Kool (RIP)

Another one of my all-time favorite Chuck Brown songs.  RIP to the Godfather Of Go-Go. 

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "All The Times" by LSG f/Faith Evans, Coko, & Missy Elliott

Every single voice on this track stands out!  SN: I still miss Gerald. <3

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "I'll Be Good To You" by Bobby Brown

it's Feel Good Tuesday!!!  Man, I remember playing this one song for hours on end and even made a dance routine to it--lol.  Those were the days when I could do the Running Man without running out of breath, the Roger Rabit, the Reebok, and the list goes on and on...!  Anyhoo, make the most of today!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Tomorrow (Better You Better Me)" by Quincy Jones f/Tevin Campbell

Happy Monday!  May this new week be as inspiring as this classic. 

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "In My Daughter's Eyes" by Martina McBride

This is a very fitting song for me as my mother's daughter.  After living with Multiple Sclerosis for the past 20 years, she hasn't let it consume her.  I love when she says, "I have MS, but it doesn't have me."  She is my hero and because of her attitude towards her MS, she has taught me to never let anything stop me no matter what the circumstances.  I will love this woman to no end!

Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers across the world.  And to those who may not have their mother's any longer, cherish the memories as they live on in your heart!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Dear Mama" by 2Pac

My mama absolutely LOVES this song so this one's for you, Mommy as we begin "your" weekend together!  Love you!!!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Every Day" by MC Lyte

"It's my life/I do it my way/You don't like my way/Then hit the highway"...and there it is, ladies and gents.  It's Friday, so make it a great one!

CC
XOXOXO

How About Shutting Up Sometimes?!

So I went to one of my favorite discount stores on my lunch break today to pick up a few extra journals since I love to write the majority of my free time.  Picking out two of the cutest ones after deciding over five different designs, I approached the register and waited in line to pay for my items.  In the meantime, a few more customers lined up behind me to await their turns to purchase what they wanted or needed.  

The cashier is a new middle-aged man that's been employed at this particular store for about a month and appeared to always be pleasant and friendly towards not only me but all the customers from my observation; well that is until today.  He rang up my things and I paid him what was owed.  As he handed me my change, he felt the need to ask, "Aren't you a little mature to be buying journals?"  

For a few seconds I stood in disbelief as I watched him while holding my change in my hand.  A million and one remarks began to roll through my mind.  How dare he ask something so stupid and intrusive.  While it's true I was buying the journal for myself which is my right to do, for all he knew I could've been buying for my child (if I had one), a relative, a friend, etc.  When I realized that I was holding up the line, I told him that sometimes I need to vent and I had a reason to after his question.  He laughed it off with an "okay" and told me to have a nice one like he always does.  I took my bag from the counter and left without saying anything and left.

If there's one thing I hate is when a person gives you their opinion when you haven't asked for it.  Sometimes, the best thing to do is "shut up" and mind your own business.  Last time I checked, any and every one is free to buy whatever they want without the cashier worrying about it.  But then again, it's idiots like him that don't know any better and this is a pity and shame.  SMH...

Song Of The Day "Good Love" by Klymaxx

Don't cha just love love?

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "When We Get By" by D'Angelo

It's hump day but this selection is so smooth it'll ease you right over the hump.  Have a great one!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Love X Love" by George Benson

A feel good song for a feel good Tuesday!

CC
XOXOXO

Song Of The Day: "Bless His Soul" by The Jacksons

I have vivid memories of my father constantly playing the entire "Destiny" album and lifting the needle at the end of this paritcular selection several times to replay it. Being 5 or 6 years old at the time I thought it was because this was one of his favorite tunes only.  However, over the years as it turned into one of my favorites as well, I understood the reason why my father would replay it: the lyrics have a powerful message about self love and pleasing yourself and no one else.  Besides, if you're always so busy pleasing others you end up losing yourself in the process.  I'm not ashamed to reveal that I've been guilty of this, but finding myself has been a great and liberating feeling.  That's why I've made a promise to myself to never EVER get lost again.  Okay, let me stop...I tend to lose myself (the irony) in this song whenever I listen to it.

CC
XOXOXO

Life Is Good

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In everything be thankful, because this is God's will for you in the Messiah Jesus.

Sometimes, I'm guilty of taking my blessings for granted without realizing it.  Nevertheless, I'm always thankful and grateful when I reflect on things during the course of each day I'm blessed with.  Case in point, I recently transitioned into a new position a few weeks ago.  Before making the transition, I was trying to weigh my pros and cons with the number one factor being a cut in pay.  Each time I tried to weigh my options, I would become distracted with something else which would seem less important.  That's when I had my epiphany: it didn't matter about my decrease in income as long as I was happy and didn't have HALF of the stress that I had become accustomed to in the job I had before my transition. 

Along with my epiphany came one of my favorite Bible verses, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10:  But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Since making my transition, I feel like a brand new me and my former co-workers, friends, and family have noticed the change in me as well.  If there's one thing my parents and my maternal grandmother has taught me from as far back as I can remember is to be thankful and grateful in ALL things.  To God be the glory!!!

Song Of The Day: "Beautiful Dreamer" by Jill Scott

I had a moment of reflection earlier this morning and this song popped into my thoughts.  With that being said, my moment starts now as I re-reach for the dream I once had.  The same goes for others who may have let go of their dreams for whatever reason.  Have a fantabulous day!

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XOXOXO

My Thoughts On The 2Pac Hologram Performance At The 2012 Coachella Festival

So I heard and read about the buzz all day long today regarding the 2Pac hologram performance that took place recently at the Coachella Music and Arts Festival.  I couldn't wait to see it for myself after coming in from work earlier this evening.

I was astonished to say the least.  I had to make myself realize that this wasn't real although it was surreal.  The movement around the stage was unbelievable and for a fleeting moment I could feel the crush I used to have on Pac come rushing to the surface as he performed "2 Of Amerikkka's Most Wanted" with Snoop Dogg (don't judge me).

Anyway, I have mixed feelings on what took place: on one hand, the technology was beyond spectacular; on the other hand, it was kind of weird and messed with my mind for a brief moment because it seemed too good to be true. Is this going to be the new form of cloning?  Hmmmmmmmm...

Oh yeah, before I forget, let me just say that the ending was out of this world!  And was it just me or did the background music sound like a slower version of the intro of Michael Jackson's hit, "Off the Wall"?  Eery...just...eery.

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Song Of The Day: "Yah Mo Be There" by James Ingram & Michael McDonald

One of a few classic duets in music history as far as I'm concerned...

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Song Of The Day: "The Boss" by Diana Ross

Take control and seize the day!

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Song Of The Day: "It's Growing" by The Temptations

I'll NEVER get enough of this selection.

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Song Of The Day: "Cleva" by Erykah Badu

Self-love is the best love!

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Song Of The Day: "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers

Well, it's Monday again.  But guess what?  It's gonna be a lovely day!!!!

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My Thoughts On Oprah's Interview Tonight With Bobbi Kristina And The Houston Family

Now that most or all of us have watched Oprah's "The Next Chapter" interview with Bobbi Kristina and Patricia and Gary Houston, I'd like to give my two cents.

First off, kudos to Ms. Winfrey for conducting a very respectful and in-depth interview with the family a month after the untimely passing of the legendary Whitney Houston.  And how many of us loved and felt the warmth from the hug she gave Bobbi Kristina?

Speaking of Bobbi Kris, she handled herself extremely well during the interview.  Being that I'm blessed to still have both of my parents, I can't even begin to imagine what this young lady is going through.  However, my heart felt a little better in watching how she would smile whenever she mentioned her mother.  

I was also happy with the fact that Bobby Brown's name was not shown in a negative light from the family during the interview.  Now of course none of us will ever really know the truth that lies behind how they interact with one another on a personal level; it was just a relief that for once, since the passing of Whitney, Bobby wasn't the fall guy.

Now as far as other topics that were addressed regarding the alleged exchange of words Whitney had with another singer/X-Factor contestant as well as the younger person in her life that she was chasing a dream of love with, I'm not going to touch on those issues as I wasn't there meaning I can't and won't give my opinion of these two situations. 

The most important matter at hand was that, we, the fans of Whitney Houston were given an opportunity to learn more about her as a loving mother, sister, and friend from those closest to her.  I will continue to keep the family and her mother in my prayers.

We Will Always Love You, Whitney.

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