Kimchi Chronicles - Title Sequence / Opening

Check out this little guy....I need him in my life!!! :-)

2YR OLD RAPS IN GIBBERISH

So how long will it take before he is on Ellen Degeneris Show... I don't know but the kid is beyond cute. Such great rhythm and flow. I love it! I watched it like 20 times. I am obssessed. Khalil and his hype man have won me over... :-)

A beautiful quote I ran across today...

Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life."
— Bob Marley

The Last Book I Read...

A little over two years ago, I was skimming through Essence Magazine (my upmost favorite mag) and I fell upon the Single Man of the Month segment. There was a handsome and distinguished bachelor being featured that month. He was a young pastor who was also a writer and activist living in Chicago, IL. I remember reading the profile and thinking how crazy it would be to send an interest reply. I called one of my girlfriends, talked it over as a joke…and let’s just say before we could say goodbye I had already prepared my message. I can’t remember exactly what I wrote but I hit the send button with one eye closed.  And then I waited and waited and waited eagerly for a few days (ok, maybe a week or so) for a reply but nothing ever came from it. Ugh… Oh well I thought to myself. It was at the very least a quick flash of fun and fantasy. I put that moment in the back of my head and purposely forgot it ever happened and I never told a soul about the mini venture (except a few girlfriends over cocktails).

Truth is… I’ve always been such a hopeless romantic. So prematurely eager to experience that “He‘s THE ONE” moment...yep that’s me. Lol!  I am a pro at wanting what is far from my reach, hence, my never ending crush on Idris Elba. So as for this childish and brief instant of admiration for Essence’s Single Man of the Month, it was nothing to recover from.  BUT let’s fast forward to 2011 because the plot thickens…

                I had only been living in Chattanooga, TN by way of New Orleans for few months. The transition wasn’t the easiest for me. There were no parties, good restaurants or even loved ones to pacify me instantly. I was lonely and I was faced with the difficult challenge of embracing it. It was just me… There was a lot of quiet time…almost too much sometimes. One particular evening, I was home writing in my journal and “facebooking” simultaneously. I received a message online. It was a very brief but nice compliment about my writing. The sender of the message was a guy who I recognized in 5, 4, 3, 2… seconds as the subject of my daring and whimsical act way back in 2009!! No way. I was beyond shocked! I laugh now at the boldness in my response telling him how eager I was to write a review for his new book, “Love Again”.  And there you have it. Full circle. So enough already right?! You want to know who he is and if the book is any good?!

His name is Patrick D. Shaffer. From my few encounters with Patrick, I experienced a very humble spirit. Not easily taking compliments without sending back immediate and positive words of encouragement, Patrick is a gentleman.  He is a 35 year old, divorced pastor; a dynamic leader doing extraordinary things in the community. Patrick is a true inspiration and uses his testimony in such a beautiful way.  His new book, “Love Again” is more than a good read, it is life confirming in many ways. Patrick shares the male perspective on the emotional layers intertwined in love and relationships. He is so wise in his revelations about the struggles and joys in marriage as well as the single life. Patrick gives hope through his honesty and faith. His self-discovery is delightful! There are so many “aahhaaa” moments in this book. And several L.O.L . moments too! No description I give can truly showcase the fullness of this spiritual memoir.  So I’ve taken a moment to note a few excerpts from “Love Again” that will demand you get your own copy, read it and discuss it at your next book club session!

“Every love story doesn’t have a happy ending but love is not lessened when it’s not forever. Sometimes the mere fact that we had love to give is a miracle all within itself.”

“We may not use the colorful language women do and our words sometime may sound so foreign that they might not at first hear the love hidden inside them but it is there and it is real.”

“I understand now that a beautiful wedding doesn’t make a beautiful love. Millions of women long to hear the words “Will you marry me?” But this powerful question in no way carries a guarantee of love and happiness. …And perhaps the next time I find someone to share the rest of my life with, the question won’t be: “Will you marry me?” It will be: “Will you make love with me?”

Patrick’s story is a gift that was so “on time” for me.  It was not by accident the order in which the events occurred that led to this review. In the text, Patrick mentions how Job in the bible understood that life is a book and we are not the authors. He adds that while that can be troubling, there’s also great peace in knowing it. Ain’t that the truth?! Love it!

I recommend this book to everybody: especially those who may be hurting from a past love, seeking to understand what goes on in a man’s mind regarding love, those on the journey of self-discovery and most of all those uncertain of the role that FAITH plays in love and marriage.  For more information about the author, visit WWW.PATRICKDSHAFFER.COM; follow @PATRICKDSHAFFER and @LOVEAGAINBOOK on Twitter and “Like” Love Again on Facebook.

Are You Resting In The Father?

Often my over-ambitious personality keeps me from really resting in The Spirit. I'm always thinking of how to trump my last goal. Plus I am a big dreamer and can't stand mediocrity. This trait can breed restlessness. The never ending search for contentment and happiness and ultimate satisfaction. But what is all of that really? What does it look like? Can it really be defined? I have been in Chattanooga for 9 months now and thru several experimental activities such as moving to a new place with no fam or friends nearby, leaving behind most of the things I owned, taking a bold step that contradicts my core beliefs about health, living w/ no bed for 4 months, no TV for 6 months, selling my baby benzy, building a network of new friends from scratch, engaging in pen pal writing, getting spiritual and professional counseling and so much more... Live without some material things for a season and truly experience what it means to Rest in the Father.

Through all of it, I have discovered that it will behoove me to learn to rejoice in the little things NOW as a young woman in order to preserve my health, my youth and my spirit.

I have been reminded that ultimately this is what is most important. No matter what our goals are, no matter our challenges, no matter our heartaches & broken hearts, no matter our disappointments..they will never compare to the price Christ paid for all of us. And for that reason only, we must strive EVERYDAY to learn to REST...Rest in the Father. He wants us healthy physically, mentally and spiritually and they are all of equal importance in my opinion.

This is a daily challenge I set for myself and I'm just sharing it with you guys. Love you all. :-)

Are You Resting In The Father?

Often my over-ambitious personality keeps me from really resting in The Spirit. I'm always thinking of how to trump my last goal. Plus I am a big dreamer and can't stand mediocrity. This trait can breed restlessness. The never ending search for contentment and happiness and ultimate satisfaction. But what is all of that really? What does it look like? Can it really be defined? I have been in Chattanooga for 9 months now and thru several experimental activities such as moving to a new place with no fam or friends nearby, leaving behind most of the things I owned, taking a bold step that contradicts my core beliefs about health, living w/ no bed for 4 months, no TV for 6 months, selling my baby benzy, building a network of new friends from scratch, engaging in pen pal writing, getting spiritual and professional counseling and so much more... Live without some material things for a season and truly experience what it means to Rest in the Father.

Through all of it, I have discovered that it will behoove me to learn to rejoice in the little things NOW as a young woman in order to preserve my health, my youth and my spirit.

I have been reminded that ultimately this is what is most important. No matter what our goals are, no matter our challenges, no matter our heartaches & broken hearts, no matter our disappointments..they will never compare to the price Christ paid for all of us. And for that reason only, we must strive EVERYDAY to learn to REST...Rest in the Father. He wants us healthy physically, mentally and spiritually and they are all of equal importance in my opinion.

This is a daily challenge I set for myself and I'm just sharing it with you guys. Love you all. :-)

Family Reveal Contest - Who's Ya Momma?!

Six women SEPARATED by disaster…

Six women STRIVING to stay connected…

Six women SEEKING to improve their health…

Six women DEFINING six different goals…

Six women SUPPORTING one another...

Six women TAKING a stand against obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol…

Six FABULOUS women,

Six STRONG women,

Six SEXY women,

Six DYNAMIC, TENACIOUS, COMPETITIVE and POWERFUL women

Six LOVING women – mothers, daughters, aunts, nieces and sisters…

Six women SEEKING to better themselves for their unborn children and loved ones…

Six women PREPARING on July 2^nd to do something simply extravagant…

REVEAL.

Stay tuned, as I take you along with me, one of the six Reveal Contestants. This will be a personal space where I track my progress. I will share my nutrition and wellness revelations. Stay tuned… I am super excited!

Judgment Day – July 2^nd  2011

Location: New Orleans – Essence Music Festival

Prizes: TBD

God Hears My Prayers...

I have been in Chattanooga for about 8 months now and have yet to really meet any women who reflect who I am and where I am trying to go in my life. That kinda scared me. (I hate to sound judgmental but I am very cautious about how and with who I spend my time. I believe I have that right.) I wasn't sure if it was because I wasn't putting myself out there enough or if these type of women did not exist in Chattanooga,TN. I just decided to pray on it and worry less...and then something happened within the last few weeks...

I met a few women in the city during a work out class who have been literally "heaven sent". Very smart, ambitious, loving, supportive, wise, Christian women that have taken me under their wing sort of speak. I believe more now than ever before it is pertinent that we surround ourselves with people who are where we want to be, people we can learn from and of course positive, uplifting people.I am very grateful to have met them. I have been instantly inspired by them. Angie is a very wise women who believes in marriage, a counselor, public speaker, teacher and much more. Donna is an on air radio personality who has achieved amazing weight loss goals, she is a public speaker, spokesperson and physical trainer. These women are AWESOME and making things happen in their community. I love their energy!

Anyway, I have been invited to join their small group that meets once a month to discuss different topics pertaining to African American women including love, relationships, self identity and such. I have only attended one gathering so far but I was very enlightened. It is a great group of women who are growing in God. We pray, cry, laugh, talk openly and pray, cry and laugh some more. My first assignment as member of the group is to complete this book titled, "Unveiling The Mystery of  a Women's Soul - Captivating By John and Stasi Eldredge. I have not really dived into it but the expectation is that I will learn what events of my past could be causing lingering emotional and personal issues in my current life. In addition, to revealing the painful side that we as women often hide from others, this book is also a tool to helping women heal those wounds properly and teaching them how to move forward.

I look forward to finishing this book ASAP and sharing my takeaways. Until then, take care. Jac

The Game Season 4 Episode 4 - The 12 Piece Special

I don't know how my blogspot is turning into a haven for the gamers but I am happy to oblige. Guilty Pleasures. Enjoy!

Okay Gamers, tonight we made a little progress. There is some real drama baking now...whooohoooo!!!! Ok, Let's Go!

Tasha is my girl but did she really have to throw it in dude's face that she was balling like that. Was it just me or did she seem a little intense this episode. Almost bipolar. Lol. I understand where she is coming from a little though. She worked for it and she wants to play with it. Ok Tash that’s cool but play smart with the money ma’am. So Lover boy is 24?!  Really? Dang. Do you smell similac. Maybe not but those arms sure could use some muscles. Tasha needs to feed that young malnourished man more often. I didn't know he was that much younger than her. And then it happened. She fell in love. Awww….hey Terrance, I see you beau. Muah. I am loving his character but the video games...I don't do video games. Go read a book, play cards with the fellas or something. HOWEVER, if the guy's only addiction is video games, I'll take that over adult video addictions anyday. I'm just saying...addictions can be serious. Side Note: If your guy is addicted to AV, run I tell you..RUN! Sorry I digress, I had to plug that in tho.

So how does that really work in football? Can Malik redeem himself? The press conference was a facade. I think he is done. So he checked himself into a rehab facility. But he seemed so optimistic about his return to football. I don't know if that is possible at this point. He has damaged his career with his bad attitude and the icing onthe cake is the fact that he is sleeping with the owner's wife. Bad move.  Even still, I am happy he has decided to get help. I understand why Tasha could take off the mama hat for a second and talk badly about her own child. lol. He is disastrous. Parents: This is what can happen when you don't give the ol' fashion whoopings. lol.  And when Malik looked out in the crowd and saw the empty chair reserved for Derwin...that was sad. Can you blame Derwin? Or do you blame Malik? IDK. But Mad Day is coming for them both...believe that.  Stay Tuned.

Boom Boom Huh? Derwin, Derwin, Derwin!!! He had me screaming at the TV doing my best impersonation of Martin Lawrence's "Damn, Damn, Damn Gina!" LOL. Why is Derwin playing house with ol' girl like that. Not kosher at all. Let me get real low level with it. Whe Dey Do Dat At?!?! So Derwin thinks because he is a famous athlete that he can just lie to his wife. Oops, I’m tripping that happens everyday doesn’t it. For some people. Well I have two words. Stupid and Sorry. Baby Mama spoke the truth. Now who is wreckless? Capital D for DUMB A$% D - E - R - W - I - N. On a more positive note regarding Derwin...the boy is chiseled and I appreciate it so much. ;-)

Peppering his food with glass. I know that's right. But think about this. At a time when Derwin was seeking to stay humble in his life (support Malik despite negative media backlash), there was Melanie reminding him of his status, success and good looks. Good and bad, I guess. Bad because her words could have possibly been added ammunition for Derwin to think he could get away with this double life. smh. Good because uplifting your husband is a wife's job and every man truly deserves a woman who will uplift and make him feel like a KING. I appreciate Melanie's intentions. But when that KING does wrong, he needs to feel more like a ____! (Pick your word of choice and fill in the blank.)

I do hope that Melanie has prepared a punishment plan of action for Derwin because he definitely sat at the dinner table showing signs of relief. Uh Uh, Mister. I don't think so. And I feel like this. The only way a baby won't touch a hot stove is after the child is convinced that it is HOT. So Mel, please BURN his A$%! However, I do love the control Mel exemplified in this episode. It shows maturity, growth, unconditional love...she is learning that marriage is an everlasting commitment despite the bad STUFF that happens sometimes. Mel didn't run seeking divorce like Derwin did. I appreciate that. And after the move Derwin played this episode, his actions are begging to be reprimanded! But like Kelly said money is power. And I am still shocked how Derwin played Mel in front of Baby Mama. Question is: Can Mel "the play doctor" even be successful in teaching Derwin how to behave like a married man? Or is she doomed because she has accepted the role as housewife? Is she going to accept his rules and not make any of her own for THEIR marriage? I hope not. Mel, you gotta do better than spitting on his food. Girl, you gotta bring the pain! A lil broken glass sprinkled like pepper over a juicy steak ain't really gonna hurt nobody. lol. Go for it!

The Game Season 4 Episode 3 - Untitled

The Game played us last night. That is really how I feel. I couldn't even stay focused on it this evening. I really don't know what to say about that episode. What was that mess?! I will keep it simple. Bullet point style...

*Why is Mel having those meetings in her home still? Ya’ll have enough money to have those meetings somewhere else…not in your home. You know ppl just coming to see how you live. Ha. And you better believe Jas would not enter my home ever after sleeping with my husband. COME ON! Mel, stop trying to act like you are so secure. She is setting herself up for more drama., as usual. And we love it. SMH. And what a reality check for Mel, I guess she will be haunted by this wanna-be doctor thing forever. I repeat...GO BACK TO SCHOOL MELANIE.

*Funny scene: Derwin holding the chair out for Jas. Trouble...Trouble...

* Good for you TT…that's right! Give him his money back. Malik is tripping hard. Here is the thing with Malik. It doesn’t make sense how he can have good understanding regarding Derwin's situation but yet behave so wreckless with his own life. I do not get it. You push TT away and then right after you complain about not being able to trust people. STUPID. I am not happy with the writing of Malik's personality...the development is not realistic UNLESS he is BI-POLAR!

*What did Jas say about her background? Did she keep it 100?  I missed a little of that. Somebody expound please. Something about they all got there the same way and stop judging other ppl. What u say, Jas?

*Another Malik Moment. This dude has serious problems…stripper after stripper, drink after drink..somebody please bring the holy water. Lol! And there you have it, Malik - locked up - too predictable.

Let me add this point. Mel and Derwin have been married for what? 2 years right? They are still newlyweds. So my question is can we get a steamy romance scene. UGH!I am just saying. See this is why shacking up can be a BAD thing..boys and girls. WHERE IS THE EXCITEMENT IN THEIR NEW MARRIAGE?! Can we get a kitchen counter, kiss-kiss scene or something?

*And bring back Terrence J soon please!!! I miss him and Tash. Oooh! But I would love to see a surprise guest appearance by one of my fav guys with Tasha Mack. Idris is my number 1 draft pick. Who would you guys wanna see? All I know is with Valentine's day coming up, they better have some more romance sprinkled in there OR I am going to have a fit!

*All in All...this episode was pretty boring.

*Wait, Wait, Wait...Am I the only one who noticed after it went off that Kelly was not even in this episode. LOL. And she was not really missed. That’s sad.

*On a brighter note, I just found out that Jas was played by a young lady name Ra'jel Nelson who is apparently a high school student in New Orleans.  Now that is good news, she did well. Go and show her some love on FB.

What I Am Reading...

A friend shared this book with me and it is considered one of the best christian books on the market regarding dating and relationships. I recommend this book to my single friends who struggle as we all do. This book gives hope and it teaches the right way to approach dating. Aren't you tired of doing it your way??? I am exhausted. My single girlfriends and I discuss this topic all the time. What is the proper way to date? How do I make sure I am not settling? Can I ever become comfortable being a single woman? Why am I so impatient? Where is he? This book gives you peace to trust God and stay focus on becoming who He is calling you to be? It teaches you how to trust Him and listen when He speaks. Majority of the text focuses on how to set the proper boundaries and the rules to play the dating game as a Christian. Munroe emphasizes the importance of building strong friendships. It is an amazing book.

Single ladies, pick it up and read it with an open heart. Don't tell yourself what you can't do. This book will challenge the way you live, date, select friends and more. It is challenging me, I won't lie. But if you believe in real love, I promise you this book is a testimony of why God's way is the right way.

Michelle Obama - INSPIRATION

Single Ladies Trailer

Single Ladies Trailer: "Check out VH1's new comedic drama series produced by Queen Latifah that asks the question what do women really want in a relationship?"

What Do Women Really Want In A Relationship?

http://www.essence.com/entertainment/hot_topics/vh1_single_ladies_lisaraye_stacey_dash_teaser.php

Confessions of a Cotton Swabber

Well, well... we can all breathe a little better now that Mel has revealed her mistake to Derwin or can we? But before I dig into that, let me start by saying, "Can one of the writers please take Jason out of the season!" I mean really…tonight he was extremely lame/wack/whatever you call it. Jason is miserable. Divorced and dismissed from the Sabers BUT does he have to be so lame? Yea, I laughed at his jokes but that means nothing. I'm silly.

 "Jason get it together, I beg you."

Looks like divorcing Kelly was the worst thing that he could have done. She took his money and his SWAG. Go Girl! Ha!

Now on to Tasha and Kelly. So was the reunion sincere? Kelly clearly wanted the apology on camera in hopes to boost the ratings of her new show and Tasha Mack was clearly scared and tired of having to watch her back. This could definitely be one of those situations where it’s better to keep your enemies close. What do ya’ll think? Regardless of the reason, it is good to see them reunited as friends. Oh but I almost forgot. When Tasha admitted to Kelly that she was a bit jealous of her in the past because she was married to a black man, I was shocked. I thought they were friends?!? Really Tasha? She was holding in jealousy and then when she had the chance, she tried to sabotage Kelly. Yea, they are friends right now but those two have some serious issues to discuss. If you didn’t notice, watch Kelly’s temperament after the apology was made, she was not very accepting of it. She was more like… Yea, you better apologize or else.

All it will take is one night, one too many drinks and somebody is going to get slapped! Then shot! LOL! J/K We’ll see how that unfolds.

Moment of Truth: Derwin and Melanie

This young married couple is cute but they are wreckless. Melanie swabbing other people babies…smh. Derwin is ready to throw in the towel. What in the world?! So I wondered how long was Mel going to take to spill the beans if Janae would not have shown up? I am happy that she got it out but it’s a little too late. Look what she has gotten herself into. I have to side with Janae on this one…bring Derwin’s behind to court! That’s right. This is trouble for their marriage. Now every time one of those child support reminders come to the house or Derwin checks his bank statement, he is going to be cursing Mel out. But guess what, I predict Derwin will punish her beyond the two orders he gave which I will speak on in a second.

No more Gucci and Prada for you Mel…that’s what you get. Tasha said it in the last episode. Leave it alone.

 Melanie is going to really need advice from Kelly on how to stay fly on a serious budget because she is about to get her black card taken AWAY!!! Although, I agree that she should suffer a little for her childish meddling. Derwin has gone too far with his demands.

1. Do not speak about his baby and his baby mama. Hey Man, you can’t do that! You are in a marriage. Melanie has a right to know what is going on. This will lead to insecurity.

 2. You must attend church EVERY Sunday whether he is present or not. WOW! Really Derwin? ! I was happy with this one at first until he added that last part. So he is going to hold this over her head forever?


And did you see Melanie’s face…more pitiful than a puppy dog. I am disappointed that she did not speak back. Yea, she was wrong but she is the wife. Stand your ground, woman! Or like a wise woman I know once said...Pull out the tricks that make ‘em forget. Tisk. Tisk. Sidebar: 2 points go to Malik for redeeming himself after behaving so trifling last week. Derwin is wrong for taking so long to get tested. Some of this is Derwin’s own fault!




Oh well, I say this… Melanie, fight for your marriage, compromise with your husband BUT bring your butt BACK TO SCHOOL!!! ASAP! Don’t be dumb.


Ladies, Gents, Chime in.

A little about Chattanooga…

Chattanooga is known as the scenic city. I learned through my travels and research that it is literally surrounded by rugged mountains on three sides. The city is located at the end of the Tennessee River Valley. When I tell you it is truly breathtaking. When I first moved here, whenever I would drive up the mountains, I would pull over and snap shots of the city. AMAZING! Coming from a city that is relatively flat, I never thought about what I was missing. Now I have a huge appreciation for the view…Chattanooga reminds me daily of God’s awesomeness.

Besides the city’s natural attributes, featured attractions like Lake Winnie, Ruby Falls, Rock City, Lookout Mountain, the Incline Railway, one of the largest Aquariums and Creative Discovery Museums are some of the attractions that people travel across the globe to see.


Of the many popular things to do in Chatt town, the Walnut Street Bridge is one of my favorites. It is the longest pedestrian bridge in the world, spans half – mile across the Tenn. River. Sometimes I visit the bridge for a jog other times just to have a good conversation, I will drive out there just to walk on the bridge. As crazy as it may sound, the most romantic walk I have ever taken was alone on the Walnut Street Bridge…lol. Yes, ladies it really can be that magical.

And yes, believe it or not, some stars were born here.

Chattanooga is the home of Samuel L. Jackson and Usher
Raymond.  

And although I don’t eat them, for the moon pie lovers, Chatt is where the magic started at the Chattanooga Bakery.


I know, I know. All my city girls are probably thinking…ugh, Chattanooga. I could never live there. It seems so boring and kind of slow. And the name itself - Shaking Your Head. I admit it is nothing like my home, New Orleans. But if you know me, you know I’m a glass half-full type of girl. I don’t spend much of my energy thinking or talking about the down-side of things. I just don’t.

I appreciate Chattanooga for what it has to offer. And what it offers is more activities in the outdoors like camping, hiking, white water rafting, sailing and stuff like that. I won't add fluff ladies, the nightlife in the scenic city is a bit lifeless in my opinion BUT (there is my glass half full spirit kicking in…) I am only an hour and a half from Atlanta, one of the best places to party, shop and network in the country! So I yet again I am SAVED by the bell! When I need a fix and that includes hair fixing…you already know where I will be. But don’t get it twisted, me and the outdoors have business to handle…camping, rafting and some other adventurous stuff will be checked off the bucket list in 2011. 

Cosmos and Catfights

Ok, So here are my thoughts about the Basketball Wives show.

But first, a few facts that I have gathered from a few articles on Shaunie and the BW show.

Shaunie and Shaq were married for almost 7 years and they have five kids, I think.lol. Their divorce was final in November 2009. Production for the first season of BW apparently started in December 2009 and the show aired in March of 2010. I'm going somewhere with this, I promise.  Shaunie claims in one interview that she had ideas about the show 2 years before it was launched and Shaq knew about it. It’s also important to note that Shaunie worked for FOX while dating Shaq and has always had ideas about producing a television show. And to add to that, she has been so successful with Basketball Wives that not only are they in the middle of a second season but she has been asked to work on the new celebreality show, Football Wives. Lawd ha mercy...IDK about that.  Shaunie says her intentions for Basketball Wives was to show the whole truth about what it’s like to be the wife of a famous athlete, she wanted it to show the glam AND the not so glam. She kept it real alright...no scripts, no edits... Except for the order from Shaq demanding that Shaunie not mention him in the show, they cut all that out. LOL! The good stuff! And that's cool Shaunie for you wanting to produce an authentic show but what about the fact that only one of the women besides yourself on the show were/are actually wives. So much for keeping it real.

Now with some facts laid out, I will give the rest of my opinion. After your done reading this if you wanna chime in at any point during the season of the show...dive in!

I was very optimistic about the show at first. I watched a good portion of the first season. It was like all other celebreality shows...entertaining first and foremost. I can watch the different housewives of " " shows and I am fine. I do not take it as personal...its light and fluffy. But for some reason with Shaunie's show, I am now disgusted. What does it say about a woman who was married to a very famous athlete for 7 years or so and when she decides to help launch a reality show, she can't get any REAL wives besides one to commit. That is saying a lot to me...I'm sorry. Maybe it’s not her fault. Maybe it’s because no one wanted to be associated with the Shaq drama because they all knew he was a cheater. IDK. SHit I knew that all the way in New Orleans. I am not trying to be judgmental but I feel like casting the show should have involved a diverse cast. Okay maybe one girlfriend, one fiancé... What about the wives that have made it work and are blossoming in their marriage. And what about Matt Barnes and his fiancé Gloria. They were happy and just because Gloria represented herself with class and was a bit private, they didn’t like her. Okay, at times she did get on my nerves because I wanted to know the juicy details but overall she was the type of cast member that is missing from the second season which makes the show seem like a straight up Cat Fight. The women are unhappy.  Is it really all about drama. What about more focus on the women and their new business ventures, kids, community service...I guess that is not good for TV. Damn.

Here is another point worth mentioning. I gave a few chronological facts for a reason. Shaunie and Shaq had not been divorced long at all before she jumped into this Basketball Wives thing. And yes, I do understand that with a divorce as nasty as theirs, she needed to stay busy and she maybe needed something that could be somewhat bigger than Shaq. And that's fine but truth be told, it was a dangerous decision to launch the show so soon after the divorce. Just my opinion. The show is a reflection of Shaunie's current disposition. She attracted cast members who connected with her and look at them. Unhappy, fussy, throwing drinks on people...SMH. But let me not hate...people are watching it and LOVING it.

I could really go on and on...but I'll stop here. Let me end with a question. Where do you stand on Basketball Wives?

A. I watch the show for entertainment and I will continue. I like the Cat Fights! I am a big fan of BW!

B. I do not watch the show because I do not agree with how the women behave.

C. I do not watch the show because its just not interesting to me.

D. I may watch it from time to time...I'm kinda indifferent.

Is It Game Over For The Game Already?

Last night was one of the most anticipated nights for television watchers on every coast. And not just in the black communities but EVERYBODY seemed to be watching!  The return of The Game grew into such a greatly anticipated spectacle; they were even parties at bars and nightclubs themed around the show. So I know for many of the fans who watched from home, they had at least one friend who called them during the commercial breaks. Well, I did. The conversation went something like this…

Me: Laughing and screaming before saying hello… Girl, yes indeed! So what you think?! I love it. Tasha Mack is looking good as usual. That’s my girl!

My Girlfriend: I don’t know Jack, it seems a bit stale. Like you can tell they have new writers for the show. It’s not real to me this season so far.

Me: Yea, it is a little different. But girl, I could have hit the floor when I saw Terrence J on the screen giving Wendy aka Tasha Mack the works! They could’ve so picked somebody sexier for that part!

Me: O Oh… Its back on, gotta go!

My Girlfriend: Click.

Another Commercial Break

My Girlfriend: Girl, AH AH! I’m sorry…I am not feeling this S@#! But wait, now watch what I tell you, Melanie is gonna find out that the baby is actually his. It’s gonna be a mistake, Watch!

Me: NOOOOOO! Huh?!  Okay, we’ll see, IDK. Girl, why is Malik so reckless…smh! And wait, Jason and Kelly…so fake but funny.  I take it back about Terrence J. He has started to grow on me within the last 10 minutes. Lol! Ok, Terrence, I see you baby!

My Girlfriend: LOL!

Me: Seriously tho, would a man really cry like that if he found out he WAS NOT the father???

My Girlfriend: Its back on, BYE.

So I know I wasn’t the only one having dialogue like this during the breaks. Right?! But overall, I really enjoyed the show. It was good entertainment and there was somewhat of a balance. Not like trash reality TV ~ Basketball Wives aka Cosmos and Catfights! That's for another day.(Although, I do watch it sometimes…shhhh!) We begged for the producers to bring The Game back and despite some of the changes, I will support this show. I can’t wait till next week! Yay! So what do you think? Is it Game Over???