gotta love em

"People will soon thank Bush for what he's done"

Really? Is this a true possibility? Well, by george, I hope to God it is a possibility. I don't believe selfless Americans wanted the Bush administration to fail or to permanently stain the accomplishments and prestige of the U.S., but at the same time, it's extremely difficult to feel as if that hasn't actually happened.

Secretary of State, Condoleeza Rice, said these words with true admiration and conviction for both her position and respect for her job and President Bush, but had she had genuine conversations with people who are not directly related to politics? Real citizens of foreign countries who are also fed countless stories of what Bush has done, or not done, in their countries? I, for one, have traveled, and have welcomed conversations in regards to the Bush administration. I was slightly obsessed with what people really thought and felt towards Americans and I got a rude awakening. People abroad have been awaiting change, just like many Americans have... change in the politics, the foreign relations, etc. etc.

Condi might be attempting to mold the end of this administration into one that has been successful.. but it clearly has not been. You may ask that child who knows only what their parents say, or that college student who is influenced by the loudest campus org on campus or colleagues, etc. etc. --either way, we are all ready for change because we've lost brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, cousins and friends in this so-called war. We've dipped into a time that is scarily similar to the 1920s depression and the list goes on.

"And I am quite certain that when the final chapters are written and it's clear that Saddam Hussein's Iraq is gone in favor of an Iraq that is favorable to the future of the Middle East; when the history is written of a U.S.-China relationship that is better than it's ever been; an India relationship that is deeper and better than it's ever been; a relationship with Brazil and other countries of the left of Latin America, better than it's ever been ... --Condi

I believe it's easy for Condi to say these things because she truly believes them to be accurate, but she needs to leave the White house, she needs to leave the political houses around the world in which "political semantics" rules conversation, and realize that the Bush administration has made life more difficult for me.

Planning for the future, deciding to further my education evermore, moving, working... all of these factors within my life have been effected by the Bush administration and she simply does not get it.

These so-called "relationships" between the US and other countries may seem "stronger, more reliable, positive, etc." but until these relationships effect me in a direct way, I don't believe it or see it as truth.

Merry Christmas AGAIN

I love Christmas, I love it I love it I love it!
I'm not excited about going back to school/ work.

Happy Holidays...

I love the holidays. I love when my family is together, when they are happy and when we can show our love in multiple ways. We show our love through breaking bread, giving presents and spending quality time with one another. This is a special time of the year because families are influenced to look at themselves and give thanks for what they have and hopefully show their love in different ways. Making a symbolic gift, taking a special trip, spending quality time can only lead to having better moments and learning each other that much more. I love the holidays, but why does it have to happen only during a very specific time? Why can’t we feel this way during May or June? Is it because of the winter season and the cold? Scientists have proven that colder weather influences negative moods and depression… is that why?

my thoughts

on liposuction...

I live in the city of "pretty". I live in Los Angeles, where it's better to be a bombshell than have half a brain. I understand why I never really dug LA... I'm a San Diegan to the heart, but what LA represents is the actual problem. Now that I've been here for over a year, I've become accustomed to the happenings, the style and the fun... but, it's still not me.

I had a very close friend recently have liposuction in the abdomen area, and around the back area. I've been completely instrumental in her recovery, and I still cannot really seem to get why someone would go to such high stakes? But, on the other hand, it does make sense that we- as humans- want to look better so that we feel better. There are very few people who have no care about what they look like, or what they're perceived as. My friend is beautiful, on the inside and out, but she still felt like having the procedure done was necessary and worthwhile, so if it makes her happy, why not?

Anyway, the only surgical procedure I've done really put a bad taste in my mouth. It was utterly painful and necessary, but so not planned! I give props to those who consciously decide to undergo such procedures with clear heads and a high level of insight and research... that's how my friend did it, and that's the only way it should be done.

welcome back

wow... it's been a minute, and life is so different... how can I even begin to discuss the changes that have happened? 2009 is in for a doozie!

Prayers to those lost in Mumbai attacks

This Thansgiving has been coupled with chaos, violence, death and sadness. Close to home, some very close friends of my family were killed by one drunk driver whose life was spared.

Very far away from home, some friends were dining at the Taj restaurant in Mumbai and were injured due to bombs that were set off. This world that we live in... some say it's always been like this. We just have never had this type of exposure and capability to know what's happening on the other end of the world... but I don't know.

My prayers go out to the families of those lost in the attacks.

All the Single Ladies!

I love this song, therefore I love Beyonce, and then I saw the video and it was donezo...




If you liked it, then you shoulda put a ring on it! so bomb...

Mr. Prez

President-elect Barack Obama can be called many things, but I feel like Maya Soetore-Ng, his sister, described him perfectly.
“I wept tears of joy for all of us on Tuesday. He may not be a perfect man. Certainly, he has often said that he'll likely be an imperfect President, but he is a good man, a smart man, a disciplined soul who balances temperance with determination and courage. We've made a great choice, I assure you."
If this statement describes anything, it paints the picture of a man who is genuine, a man whom I could speak to and then have a real conversation. Soon after the election, President-Elect Obama instantly began the transition into the Presidency. President Bush invited him soon after his victory and the meeting was very cordial and productive. This could definitely be the start of something fantastic, especially because President Bush is already conveying thoughts of regret of his words and decisions during his reign. As his term comes to a close, this time can be taken as a momentous occasion to reflect and determine what needs to be done in order to create real change and improve the state of the country.

I would love to do this!

Oh, what I would give to do this... just fly and be free. Seems like such a simple desire, doesn't it?

Happy Veteran's Day

Thank you for letting me take work off today! Much APPRECIATED!!!

Sarah Palin

Can she stop being on television? You lost! It's over! Go back to Wasilla, and take care of your children! ok, that was a bit hostile,but stilll...

I just don't understand the point of discussing events and situations in retrospect, especially if it is completely irrelevant today. I listened to an interview in which she proceeded to discuss why the Republican party lost. She said something along the lines of America wanting a real change, and the fact that the Republican Party ultimately still represented the status quo. Can we say, duh?

uggh...

Beverly Center

That mall is ridiculously awesome. The Grand Lux is OK... but the shopping is fantastic! I thought I'd share my experience because I believe this is the second time I've gone there...

Obama/ a Milli

Presidential Inauguration

I'M GOING!!!

 D.C. here I come...

so excited!!!

Kanye's my favorite too...

fave quotes...

"the victory tonight is not the change we seek."

"we rise and fall as one nation, as one country"

"I will be your President too."

Brought me to tears...

Is this what it feels like?

I've NEVER felt proud enough to flash my country's flag, or stand up and truly proclaim my American origins... until this day.  I am truly astonished and taken aback by what America chose. Not only did they choose their President, they solidified his victory by making this election a landslide competition.  I have never been so proud to be an American, and even more than that, I am so very proud to be an African American.  We've come a long way and as my friend Eryck said "it's about damn time".  Although, it may be the "time", many individuals did not and do not believe it's the time and further believe that it will NEVER be the time.  I'm proud of my country, I'm proud of those who didn't vote for Obama because without them, this struggle wouldn't mean as much.  It would have been an easy feat, one that did not count for potential assassination attacks, or a change in the psyche of America... but a mindset of pure apathy and disillusionment.

I'm proud to say that I voted for Barack Obama, and that he is now our Presidential- elect.  It still gives me chills.  I believed, I wanted change, but I didn't know whether it would actually materialize.  Then, we our next President presented his acceptance speech, he continued to be eloquent, humble yet somber, and realistic.  Anyone who would have won would and will have a very difficult time cleaning up the mess of the past 8 years.  He's well aware of the fact that he cannot do it a lone.  He took this moment to remind Americans that he is the President of those who voted for him as well as the President who people did not vote for.  He will work for all citizens, not only the privileged, not only the White folks, but everyone.    That's why everyone came to vote.

Now, I gotta give it to McCain.  Despite the rampant classless audiences, he announced his camaraderie and respect for Obama and he understands that America did not vote for him in an astounding way!  He cannot stand up tall and say that this was a mistake because the vast majority of Americans stomped for Obama... and that's all.

And was anyone else perturbed at the sight of the crying Sarah Palin?  This makes me wonder- even more- whether she would have been ready for this role!  Do you see Hillary Clinton crying after defeat? NO!  A leader must realize his or her shortcomings and be forthright with the actions that must follow.  Palin lost this election, but she still has a right and duty to the people whom she's promised so much!  Her reaction only showed me her small mindedness, her actual expectance of victory and her utter weakness.  Thank God she didn't win. 

both proud and disapponted in Cali...

Thank the lord above.  We have supported the movement towards change that eventually lead to the election of our Barack Obama. I am elated, I am so happy and inspired.  My pride in my country has been rejuvenated and I am taken aback at the thought that the fundamental pillars of what the USA was created actually exist.

However, we've also taken a step backwards.  My fellow Californians have chosen to ban same-sex marriages, therefore solely recognizing heterosexuals as true unionships.  This disappoints me on so many levels.  Many have used the "child" as the reason why same-sex marriage should not be allowed;but, children will continue to see and be exposed to homosexuality, no matter if the couples are, indeed, married.  This was definitely a blow to fundamental rights and equality.

The FIRST Family

The First

Today was a good day.  This week was the best week.  I'm nervous in commenting because I feel as if a jinx is definitely possible...

We now have an African American President, and no one, NO ONE, can question it.  He didn't just win, he won by a serious landslide.

YES!!!

California was counted and it'S OVER!!!

BARACK OBAMA is the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!!

My anthem...

'THE NEGRO NATIONAL ANTHEM'

Lift every voice and sing

Till earth and heaven ring,

Ring with the harmonies of Liberty ;

Let our rejoicing rise

High as the listening skies,

Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,

Sing a song full of the hope that t he present has brought us,

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun

Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod,

Bitter the chastening rod,

Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;

Yet with a steady beat,

Have not our weary feet

Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears have been watered,

We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered,

Out from the gloomy past,

Till now we stand at last

Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years,

God of our silent tears,

Thou who has brought us thus far on the way;

Thou who has by Thy might

Led us into the light,

Keep us fore v er in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, Our God, where we met Thee;

Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee;

Shadowed beneath Thy hand,

May we forever stand.

True to our GOD,

Tru e to our native land 

James Weldon Johnson June 17, 1871 - June 26, 1938

Pink berry!

Pink berry is my new obsession. 3 flavors of yogurt... 10 different choices of fresh fruit, and- of course- different toppings such as chocolate and captain crunch!

almost there...

Today is the last day before the rest of this country’s future. Tomorrow is November 4, 2008 and it marks the start of the new Chief Executive of this country. The signs are out, the flyers have been mailed. I’ve got my button, my T-shirt and my brain and hopefully others do as well. I’ve got my time scheduled to stand in line to vote, I’m just hoping others do as well. Tomorrow is the beginning of change, no matter which candidate is elected. I fear the victory of the Republican ticket, not because of McCain, but solely because of Palin. This Vice Presidential nominee will be the next President of the United States. People fail to realize what it seems to take to run this country, or at least come off as if you possess the know-how. I need a President that will inspire me and my family and friends; a President who sees the future and wishes to renew the USA’s stance in the world. We have fallen, and I fear that we will only fall further if the McCain-Palin ticket is chosen. If Americans choose this, I will be saddened beyond belief.

he's so effin cute

I love Taco Bell... especially the chalupas. yum

Happy Halloween!!

I had the best time this evening... my niece was the cutest ladybug EVAR!
The kids that came by the house were hysterical and I really enjoyed not going out... I'm getting old. aaahh.

You can vote however you LIKE!

Stylista? maybe...

What's with the hooker boots? That's not conservative, Governor Palin! Tsk tsk

New York votes to extend Mayor Term Limits

What does this mean for other cities all around the country? Of course, the fact that we live in a democracy says that we are for the people and supposedly ran by the people, but is this giving the "people" too much power? Or will this actually assist in the improvement of quality work of the officials in office? I believe it can easily go both ways... but with Bloomburg, it may actually be a positive change.

He will now have an opportunity to run for Mayor for the third time. Congratulations to him.

hehe...

A little boy goes to his dad and asks, "What is Politics?"
Dad says, "Well son, let me try to explain it this way:
I am the head of the family, so call me The President.
Your mother is the administrator of the money, so we call her the
Government.
We are here to take care of your needs, so we will call you the People.
The nanny, we will consider her the Working Class.
And your baby brother, we will call him the Future.
Now think about that and see if it makes sense."
So the little boy goes off to bed thinking about what Dad has said.
Later that night, he hears his baby brother crying, so he gets up to check
on him.
He finds that the baby has severely soiled his diaper.
So the little boy goes to his parent's room and finds his mother asleep.
Not wanting to wake her, he goes to the nanny's room. Finding the door
locked, he peeks in the keyhole and sees his father in bed with the nanny.
He gives up and goes back to bed.
The next morning, the little boy say's to his father, "Dad, I think I
understand the concept of politics now."
The father says, "Good, son, tell me in your own words what you think
politics is all about."
The little boy replies, "The President is screwing the Working Class while
the Government is sound asleep. The People are being ignored and the Future
is in deep shit."


Carpe Diem Takes Too Long...

Life is short! Break the rules! Forgive quickly! Kiss slowly!
Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably,
and never regret anything that made you smile.

Incarceration

Did you know that 1 in 100 Americans are in prison? Yep.
Well, did you know that 1 in 9 African American men are also incarcerated?

Why Does Obama recieve so much positive coverage?

Well, I think this question can be answered quite easily.  The Obama campaign has ran an honorable, respectable race!  There haven't been rallies full of "boos" and signs depicting his opponent as a terrorist or an "anti-American", etc.  The McCain campaign has been completely childish, tactless and idiotic.  The audience seems to be present only due to their loyalty to the Republican campaign, not because it's the best choice for the White House.  How many people of color or diverse groups have you seen at the McCain rallies?  I'm just wondering.... I keep seeing one type of person, older white middle class people who are having an incredibly tough time accepting the mere fact that the US may have an African American man as President... and they're scared in there boots!  How far have we really come?  Seriously... and obviously, not far enough.

This article was posted October 23rd on

Why Does Obama Get More Positive Coverage?
Posted by James Poniewozik | Comments (10) | Permalink | Trackbacks (0) | Email This
I'm tempted to just post that headline and let the Comments section fill up by itself. But there's an actual news peg. The Pew Research Center has done a study of campaign coverage since September, and found that 36% of stories about Obama were positive in tone, 29% negative and 35% mixed. For McCain, it was 57% negative, 14% positive, the remainder neutral.
Pew lays out several explanations, though the most pervasive one is: Obama has gotten positive press because he's gotten good news. "[Candidate A] Moves Ahead in Latest Poll," after all, is a positive story for Candidate A and a negative for Candidate B. After the conventions—when McCain bounced to a lead in the polls, Obama's coverage started out negative; the count turned more positive as his polling did.
On the zillion-dollar question of whether the press simply wants Obama to win, Pew takes a pass, but makes some good points:
Is there some element in these numbers that reflects a rooting by journalists for Obama and against McCain, unconscious or otherwise? The data do not provide conclusive answers. They do offer a strong suggestion that winning in politics begat winning coverage, thanks in part to the relentless tendency of the press to frame its coverage of national elections as running narratives about the relative position of the candidates in the polls and internal tactical maneuvering to alter those positions. Obama’s coverage was negative in tone when he was dropping in the polls, and became positive when he began to rise, and it was just so for McCain as well. Nor are these numbers different than what we have seen before. Obama’s numbers are similar to what we saw for John Kerry four years ago as he began rising in the polls, and McCain’s numbers are almost identical to what we saw eight years ago for Democrat Al Gore.
What the findings also reveal is the reinforcing—rather than press-generated—effects of media. We see a repeating pattern here in which the press first offers a stenographic account of candidate rhetoric and behavior, while also on the watch for misstatements and gaffes. Then, in a secondary reaction, it measures the political impact of what it has reported. This is magnified in particular during presidential races by the prevalence of polling and especially daily tracking. While this echo effect exists in all press coverage, it is far more intense in presidential elections, with the explosion of daily tracking polls, state polls, poll aggregation sites and the 24-hour cable debate over their implications. Even coverage of the candidate’s policy positions and rhetoric, our reading of these stories suggest, was tied to horse race and took on its cast.
It's a worthwhile point about how the mediasphere works nowadays: a negative piece of news begets a negative piece of news analysis begets a campaign-trial story that views a candidates' actions as a reaction to the polls. (See here, especially, the interpretation of McCain's suspension of his campaign.)
A few good tidbits about the running mates as well:
Coverage of Palin, in the end, was more negative than positive. In all, 39% of Palin stories carried a negative tone, while 28% were positive, and 33% were neutral. Contrary to what some suggested, little of the coverage was about Palin’s personal life (5%).
Democratic vice presidential nominee Joe Biden was nearly the invisible man. His had just one large moment, the vice presidential debate, which also offered his only positive or neutral contribution. Aside from that week, the limited coverage he did receive was far more negative than Palin’s, and nearly as negative as McCain’s.

***very interesting

heeehee...

While walking down the street one day a US senator is tragically hit by
a truck and dies.

His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.

"Welcome to heaven," says St. Peter. "Before you settle in, it seems
there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts,
you see, so we're not sure what to do with you."

"No problem, just let me in," says the senator.

"Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is
have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose
where to spend eternity."

"Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven," says the
senator.

"I'm sorry, but we have our rules."
And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down,
down, down to hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle
of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in
front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked
with him.

Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him,
shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while
getting rich at the expense of the people.

They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and
champagne.

Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who has a
good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time
that before he realizes it, it is time to go.

Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises
..

The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St.
Peter is waiting for him .

"Now it's time to visit heaven."

So, 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls
moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a
good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St.
Peter returns.

"Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now
choose your eternity."

The senator reflects for a minute, then answers: "Well, I would never
have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I
would be better off in hell."

So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down
to hell.

Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren
land covered with waste and garbage.

He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and
putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above...

The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder. "I
don't understand," stammers the senator. "Yesterday I was here and
there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar,
drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a
wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What
happened?"

The devil looks at him, smiles and says.......

"Yesterday we were campaigning. Today you voted."

LAST DAY!

People, if you are an eligible voter in the state of California, TODAY was the LAST DATE to officially register to VOTE!! I hope you did it, not just so that you can vote for Barack (which I pray you do), but so you can contribute to this historic period in politics and actually play a part!

and then.

Now the critism of Colin Powell’s position is transpiring, and the fact that he is a black man completely dictated his decision to officially endorse Barack Obama. Lets think clearly about this people. Colin Powell has nothing to gain from endorsing Senator Barack Obama. Powell holds the prestigious role of Secretary of State with an impeccable history of experience and leadership. He considers himself a Republican, and therefore initially supported John McCain. If anything, this switch would cause me to ask the question of “Why?” Why would he switch positions? Well, he explained it clearly and succinctly in his interview. McCain’s campaign has taken a negative turn for the worse focusing on trivial things. In addition, his choice for Vice President is further reason to question his ability to lead a country in this tumultuous time.

Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama!  If this man is not elected President of the United States, I'm moving to Switzerland.   lol

Finally, someone had the nerve to tell the plain truth and say it with eloquence and dignity.

Why are people so funny?  Friends and foes alike are interestingly dissimilar due to the ways in which they communicate, participate and function.   Apparently, I have a bit of an issue with choosing friends, not that I choose bad ones, but I don't necessarily choose the best of the litter.  I tend to be quite accommodating and on top of that very agreeable (thanks D).  I don't apologize or regret being this way with others, but I have now come to the conclusion that it makes for others creating a beneficial relationship with me, sometimes for short periods and others for long.

Either way, friends should have reciprocal relationships that are fulfilling in some way.  The type of relationship determines the way in which both people treat each other, but it should be positive!!  LOL, friends make each other happy, not sad.

The Black Conservative

Has anyone heard of a Black Conservative James T. Harris?


I am all for respecting all opinions and even agreeing to disagree.  I just don't understand why people are against Barack Obama, black or not... it doesn't make logical sense to me!

As far as Mr. Harris being called a "sell out" or "traitor", I can vibe with why people would call him this.  I need to be honest, this election is so much more than a normal Presidential election.  The outcome of November 4th will determine the rest of our lives... potentially and most definitely.  People want to complain about this election being so racially divisive and/ or racially charged... have we forgotten what country in which we live?  The USA was built upon racial division and a hierarchy was developed and had been continually maintained.  Our country is over two centuries old, and we've yet to see a President who was not an older white man.  There are countless ethnic groups that were on this land before and during the beginning of this nation, yet and still, they can't seem to make it to the white house...

All of that aside, I choose to vote for the candidate who is different.  I choose to vote for a candidate who does not remind me of George W.   Race or not, Obama is the better choice and to not be proud that one of our own has stepped into this new role is utterly unspeakable. 

Apple

I'm currently at the Apple store buying the new macbook...

so juiced!!

Femininity

Maxwell sings an incredible song that has blown my mind.  

When a man chooses to incorporate thought and precision into his analysis of the female,  I become completely encompassed in the words and therefore the meaning.  What does it mean to be feminine?  Is it the same as girly?  Does it describe a woman who prides herself in being a female and therefore embodies gender stereotypes and roles?  I'm not sure... but maybe.

To me, femininity is the act of embracing one's individuality.  A woman who is proud of their characteristics and can flaunt it is feminine.  This pride can focus on skin type and color, body shape and figure, and everything in between... hair, nails, eyes, lips and all other body types.

I'm proud of my femininity.

19 days LEFT

VOTE 

VOTE

VOTE

Everything has an end

...he once told me that.

I guess he was right.

Food for Thought

Now, when I think of intimate relationships, I think of two people who care enough about one another to support, cherish and love the other. These responsibilities, if you will, should be effortless. Once the love is hard to come by, the support is no longer unwaivering and the act of cherishing is no longer existent, then what?

I believe relationships are the reason and the purpose of life. Without my daily interactions with others, I would have no direction, motivation or zeal for life. Relationships with boyfriends, with my sisters, with my mom, with my best friends are meaningful because these people bring (or are supposed to!!) joy and fulfillment, and hopefully I return it in a similar fashion; nevertheless, feelings change and people change and therein lies this confusing rabbit hole rationale on life.

I don't propose I understand it better than anyone else, but I am passionate in the belief that my life, nor others', could be meaningful and truly purposeful without the existence of others. This is why it hurts when a best friend betrays you. This is why a piece of your soul seems to have broken when you and your boyfriend don't make it. This is why we're human!

TRL has run its course...

So... I remember being in Middle School/ High School and getting excited to watch the top music videos of the day!

Well folks, November 16th is the last day for TRL... it's been on the air for 10 years and it's now closing it's book and MTV is moving on!

3rd and Last Presidential Debate

As we prepare to see the final debate between Presidential candidateS, Senator Barack Obama and Senator John McCain, new (yet, old) factors are now being discussed and are definitely effecting the mindset of the voting population. The countless racist, elitist, bigot-like rants have quadrupled in both their popularity and hostility and it's becoming rediculous. I can truly say and believe that this election is showing our true colors as a nation. Some say we've come a long way, that we've almost become a Progressive and prototype of what countries should look like, but I find myself at unease with the thought.

While driving home from work, I heard the most telling story of how our politics are effecting people throughout the world. A man was shot 3 times because he was wearing an Obama t-shirt. 3 times! He was shot in the jaw, hit in the shoulder and the third grazed his hand as he tried to shield his face. His name is Dubi Iguato and he is currently in treatment for his wounds that could have definitely been fatal. This person was not shooting to injure him, he was shooting to kill. Is this where we've come?

If anyone believes that this American election is not a world wide issue- dealing with race upfront, then I'm not sure what to say. More and more,we're hearing citizens speak out about their hesitancy in electing a Black man as President. People have had opinions such as "I don't think Sarah Palin and John McCain are the strongest ticket, but I'm just not comfortable with a Black man in the white house." These are our stories people! These folks live right next store!

My mother never believed she'd live in a time where a Black man or woman could potentially be running the White House, but I did. I actually thought it would me! Why is it so difficult for people to wrap their head around the idea of an intelligent, charismatic, powerful, unwaivering Black man to be President? Because we truly haven't come that far as a nation. The racism, the hatred, the prejudice is still very much alive in our schools, our churches, our offices, and everywhere... it's just been silent.

Hiatus

I haven't been writing on my blog because times are hard! Even though this is a very positive source for me to release and express my emotions freely, I had no motivation whatsoever to do so. I wonder if anyone truly reads this thing... if not, no fret, I still like writing. :)

Mother's is going out of business!

Do you remember when your mother would buy you cookies that looked like animals? The pink or white covered cookies with sprinkles, the chocolate chip cookies, the butter cookies, the peanut butter sandwiches, etc. etc.

The company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and now the nearly 100 year old company has come to an end. :( How incredibly depressing! This company has been going strong since 1914! I believe this is one of many long-lasting companies that possess this fate.

I'm gonna try to purchase some before they're completely off of the shelves.

What is Palin truly saying?

*The article below conveys a different perspective on Governor Palin's words and arguments which have been seen via interview, and most recently debate. I think he's absolutely brilliant and that he intelligently analyzed her words and thereby better understands her level of competency as well as the goals set by the Republican party.

Listening to Sarah
McCain's running mate reveals well the thinking that Republican strategists aim to insert into the American psyche, writes James Zogby*

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Media commentators were breathless in anticipation of the vice presidential debate between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Sarah Palin. Given Palin's repeated gaffes in television interviews, there was an expectation that she might self-destruct in this nationally televised event.

This did not occur. Instead, Palin followed a disciplined debate strategy: she did not answer most of the questions asked (at one point she announced, "I'm not going to answer the questions the way the moderator or my opponent would like me to") and, instead, delivered a series of prepared mini-speeches to fill time.

Palin was friendly and, somewhat disturbingly, flirtatious (with winks, etc) and folksy, sprinkling her answers with colloquialisms ("doggone," "you betcha," etc). Because her pat speeches had been prepared in advance, she didn't stumble into gibberish, as she had in her earlier interviews, and appeared overall to be competent enough to please her supporters. I had expected as much.

I had noted before the debate that in watching and evaluating Sarah Palin's debate performance, it would be important not to focus exclusively on what she doesn't know about critical foreign policy issues. More useful, I believed, would be filtering out what she does know.

Palin began this process with largely a blank slate on foreign policy. One could dismiss her claims of having learned about international affairs by living, as she does, between two foreign countries. The geography is undeniable; but living across the Bering Strait from the frozen wastelands of Russia's Siberia, or across a land border from Canada's Yukon, provides more a sense of isolation than it does foreign policy experience.

Similarly, Palin's sole foreign trip, last year, to US military installations in Germany and Kuwait (and stepping one quarter mile into Iraq) to visit with members of Alaska's National Guard may have helped the governor better understand the needs of her constituents deployed abroad but would not have left her better informed about Kuwait or Iraq. And it is questionable how much useful information she culled from her speed-dating exercise with world leaders in Manhattan (other than the sorry fact that some of them could be fawning or downright embarrassingly sexist).

In selecting Palin, McCain's operatives understood her obvious assets: solid "Christian" conservative credentials, unlimited ambition, effective stage presence and, yes, the fact that she is a woman. But recognising her equally obvious weaknesses (primarily a lack of policy -- especially foreign policy -- credentials), the McCain team sequestered their number two in an effort to give her a crash course in world affairs.

Led by arch neo-conservative and foreign agent lobbyist Randy Scheunemann (who was an ever-present chaperone during Palin's New York adventure), the team drilled their "quick study" in the ways of the world.

In the interviews that marked brief breaks in Palin's sequestration, the fruits of their labour have been on display. Much could be learned from her answers in three major interviews. Some of her answers were nearly unintelligible, to be sure, but sifting through the jumbled syntax and incoherent babble revealed her "talking points".

These answers deserve scrutiny, as do the prepared lines she delivered during the debate, because they provide a guide to the worldview of Palin's handlers, which they hope to advance through her.

Having no independently developed, experience-based foreign affairs knowledge of her own through which to sift this "received knowledge", Palin's recitation of her lessons revealed a raw and unfiltered neo-conservative view of the world. It is, at times, banal and oversimplified; but it is also, in many ways, perfectly clear.

It is absolutist and Manichean. There is good ("us") and evil ("them"). "We" stand for democracy and the "spirit of freedom that is found in every human heart". Since the clash between good and evil is both desirable and inevitable, "our" role is to bring "our values" to a waiting world and defeat evil. And in this conflict, "our" victory is preordained. Compromise with evil is unthinkable and so traditional forms of diplomacy are to be rejected as a sign of weakness and surrender. (In this worldview, diplomacy means working with those who agree with us, not finding ways to bridge differences with those with whom we disagree.)

Simple? Yes, but also dangerous. This was the worldview embraced by the current administration, especially during its first term. (It is the consequences of this disastrous course that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has worked diligently, if unsuccessfully, to correct.) And despite its many failures, it appears that this hardline neoconservative course is embraced by Palin's running mate and his advisors.

Now, Palin is no mere pawn. In many ways her Christian fundamentalism has prepared her for her role, since neo- conservatism is but a secularised version of her new faith's absolutism. But while the theology provides a fit, it is the language and its application to complex world affairs that is new.

And so, while the basic framework (good versus evil, etc) makes sense in Palin's mind, she is not yet comfortable with the new phrases that have been written on the previously near- blank slate. This is why I say that it is important to listen to what she does say, not how badly she says it. And don't make fun: be afraid.

* The writer is president of the Arab

He says "We Can Solve This Crisis"

Really? Can we actually do it? If we can do it, why hasn't it already been done? It's instances like these that make me feel like an ill-formed, uneducated American. The media in our country is completely subjective and therefore depending on the station, the channel, the political view of the boss, I may recieve a completely biased view of what's actually happening in the world, at large, as well as within my own country. President Bush is saying the anxiety and stress that people are placing upon this financial crisis is only making it worse... well, what do you expect when people have lost thousands of dollars within days?!!? What do you expect when people are told the opportunity for credit may decease? Expect panic, expect ignorant rants and raves, because this is the way of the American people. We've lived in a bubble, and we continue to do so, unfortunately, it takes traumatic events for many to truly question their daily activities and question whether they've made the best decisions for their own lives as well as those of their immediate families.

Britney Spears- confession

So... I'm not afraid to say that I was definitely a Britney Spears fan circa 2000. I enjoyed her performances, she may not be the most talented singer, but you gotta admit, the girl puts on a good show! Anyway, I just read that she plans to air a documentary in which she is completely candid about the trials and tribulations she's withstood over the past 2-3 years. She's preparing for the release of her new album, and definitely wants to come back. I don't know about you, but I'm kind of excited.

I love "womanizer". LOL

Santa Monica

So my friend and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather that's a happening in SoCal... to be honest, it's a bit too hot when ur ready for Fall, but I'll take it! We went to the Third Stree Promenade which is a street full of shopping, food, and everyithing else in between. We decided to have sushi (which I love) and the aftermath was so bad! LOL... lets just say, some of that raw fish wasn't so fresh! LOL... I know, TMI.

Wisdom Tooth #2

I just had my second wisdom tooth pulled... and it was extremely smooth! Thank God, I don't think I could've taken another week of pain! YAY!

Happy Halloween

What are parents planning to do with their children if the houses in their neighborhood are vacant? lol. some serious shit! I'm gonna cut my own Jack-o-lantern, and make another pumpkin pie!! yeeeahh!

Reunion !

So my weekend, although filled with pain, was also full of fun! My bestie, Steph, decided to throw an informal reunion for all the friends we had (and still have) from high school. Our high school class graduated in 2002... it's been a good 6 years since I've seen some of these people! She lives in a swank apartment in downtown SD, and it was a great time. It's amazing how some people change dramatically while others change just a little bit. I didn't know how I'd respond to some people who I hadn't seen for 5 years, but overall, it was a pleasant surprise. We had (have) a good group of friendds, and I hope we can keep in touch!

pain

I haven't been on my blog for 3 days or so because I've been going through IT! Since I had a wisdom tooth extracted, I've either been in an immense amount of pain, or on Vicodin. I had a really bad reaction, so my healing time has been extended, and I am so over hurting! Seriously, we never really know how much we use certain muscles and joints until we're limited in how we can use them. Simple pleasures like eating, speaking, putting on chapstick (my fave!) cause me pain! I'm just hoping it gets better... sooner than later. :)

VOTE!!!

This is a pretty awesome video of actors and actresses stressing the importance of voting... not voting for Obama, but simply voting. If you care about anything that can be effected by the government, register and VOTE dammit!!

Vice Presidential Debate

I have to say that I am a bit relieved the VP debate is over, yet, completely surprised at how... boring it was. There were moments of surprise, but overall, both candidates repeated what's been said by their ticket mates, or what they themselves have said in their own interviews. I wanted to be moved, and I surely wasn't... by either candidate. Biden had some great words at the end, but overall, he held his ground much greater than Palin.

Palin continued to give vague answers to questions that illicited specific examples and concrete strategy... no surprise there. Her hometown accent and colloquial speech stunned me. She's vying to be the Vice President, and ultimately the President, of the United States and she doesn't possess the professional, educated rhetoric necessary to command respect, dignity and prestige.

Biden seemed flushed in answers. In my opinion, he's been listening to the expectations and he acted accordingly. Commentators often said he's been condescending and a bit authoritative, he didn't show that at all last night. He was quite respectful and respectful of Palin and her shortcomings...

I don't know, I think I was disappointed because I wanted to hear something "new", but now that I reflect on it, I believe that Americans who watch these debates already belong to one party or the next. These debates don't necessarily switch people's stances (and thereby their vote), these debates rather strengthen or weaken your opinion on a given candidate. For those "undecided" voters, these debates are much more meaningful, but still, aren't enough to completely decide who the better candidate is. I hope people take the time to research and listen to more then one debate, but listen to and examine the actions of the candidates in one-on-one interviews, in rallies and when talking to citizens all around the country.

I can't wait until the next Presidential debate... those are much more telling.

PALIN quotables
"What, I've been at this for, what, 5 weeks?"
"Can I call ya Joe?"
"I've joined a team of Mavericks."
"I may not answer the questions the way that you or the moderator want to hear, but I'm gonna speak straight to the American people."

51% of pollers said Biden did better (CNN.com)

VP debates

People are saying "Don't underestimate Governor Palin." Are you serious? If you've followed her track record, she's pretty much burned herself! I will not expect her to magically appear poised, confident, competent or at all ready to become the 2nd in charge.

Anything that resembles intelligence and knowledge, strategy and foresight has been baby fed to her during the last few weeks... if not months. I'm afraid of people who aren't aware of her past, tune in Thursday night and are completely jaded at the sight of an attractive lady, with a funny accent, who seems to kinda know what she's talking about. NO!

Because people have such low expectations, maybe she'll surprise us all!!! ... but I doubt it.

Another point: Biden's been criticized of speaking from a condescending view point. He has an authoritative tone and with Palin, Americans may pay more attention to that than the actual issues... what kinda sense does that make?!? Yes, Palin, is a woman. Yes, she's been overly confident, all I need to say is, "Lady, you need to prove yourself!" Tone, appearance,etc. aside, both candidates need to bring it and I believe we'll be expectedly disappointed with Palin.

Political Update

RIGHT NOW, the battleground states (Florida, Nevada, etc.) are leaning towards the wonderful Barack Obama. With the current economic crisis looming and possessing the potential to hurt older, wealthier citizens, McCain is NOT holding his own.

The map favors Barack Obama... substantially!

Wisdom Tooth #1

Today, I had my first appointment to get my wisdom teeth extracted. The original plan was to remove two today and the last two next week because they aren't exposed and require a little extra work. What ended up happening is the first attempt at one was a bit difficult, so my dentist decided that when he finished that one, he'd save the rest for the next appointment.

Now, don't get me wrong, I have a pretty high tolerance for pain, but this was rediculous! I've been under the knife and everything, but nothing really prepared me for what this ish would feel like! Thank God my dentist is great for placing anesthesia well and making sure the patient feels no pain, but he failed to tell me how much it could hurt AFTER the anasthesia wore off!!! I went to my mama's house, because it's really close and decided to make myself some food.

Withing 25-30 minutes, I was in a different world! M mouth was throbbing with pain, and I had to stop any movement that involved the muscles in and around my mouth! After about 15 minutes of this surprisingly high level of pain, I had a bout of crying that lasted about 40 minutes and then I decided to stop my tears. (How sad!)

I decided to face it and let the pain killers do their magic, my emotions may have been preventing their effects! LOL, eventually they started to kick in,but it still wasn't 100% relief... I called my doctor about an hour and a half later, and he said take another Motrin and if that didn't work within a couple of hours, that he'd call in a new prescription of Vicodin for me...

Lets just say, I needed the Vicodin.
That was my first experience with Wisdom teeth, and I have 3 effin morE!!
pRAY FOR mE!!

huh?

So, the artist formerly known as Prince, recently stated "I'm a Jehovah's Witness. I don't do birthdays or holidays. I don't vote." What? Since when? Can someone explain to me how one's religious affiliation cab dictate their choice to vote? Confused...

I love Disney movies, I always have and I always will. But for some reason, The Lion King has always been my fave! I also can watch Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and Pocahontas over and over and over again. I have dreamed about seeing The Lion King on stage, but still haven't had the chance, but now I feel like it's time to take a trip to Sin City and see the KING! Yay! Who wants to go?!? It opens in May 2009 at Mandalay Bay!

oh...men

Ever notice how all of women's problems start with MEN?


MENtal illness
MENstrual cramps
MENtal breakdown
MENopause
GUYnecologist
AND ..
When we have REAL trouble, it's a
HISterectomy.

Woman has Manin it;
Mrs. has Mr . in it;
Female has Male in it;
She has He in it;
Madam has Adam in it;
No wonder men always want to be inside women!

The Family that Preys

I enjoyed the film! It was very different from Tyler Perry's previous films, in a good way- definitley showed his versatility.

At this point, I just wanna point out quotables!

"Death is a tragic thing... if you haven't lived."

"It's not you that I don't trust, it's your private thoughts that give me pause."

thinking...

I am thinking HARD right now!

Right now, I have too much to do.
Right now, I have too much on my mind.
Right now, I feel alone.
Right now, I feel suffocated.

I'm in a weird place at the moment. My mental state is content, but not extremely happy. The time that I get to spend with special people in my life seems to always go by quickly and then end abruptly. I have a lot of thinking to do, about my life as it is now, and about my life in the near and far future.

Where do I want to live and stake my "home"?
This question is quite difficult to answer simply because I've yet to see enough of the world. If and when I do give myself time and opportunity to travel, yet again, whose to say I won't end up living there? I'm open to it. On the flipside, my heart is still in San Diego. I love my city and I love the people there. My roots and my stability exist there, and for that reason, it's always a possibility as well. The third place exists elsewhere, but in California. What can I say? I'm a true Cali girl, it's scary to think to live somewhere else, and at the same time KNOW that you can find all that you need is this great state. Anywhere from the sensitive, yet vibrant, city of San Francisco, all the way south to the rich and young city of Daygo... I need help.

What do I want to seriously pursue as a career?
I love teaching and I enjoy having the opportunity to be amongst people: colleagues, children and everyone else in between. I know I want to continue to be within the field of Education, but I'm not sure in what capacity. Do I want to be in the thick of it and continue to teach the children? Do I take on a more administrative role and lead a school? Who knows...

What kind of family life do I want? and WHEN?!
Hahhahhaa... this is funny to me because I feel like I constantly place my wishes upon Bert, but I'm not even sure what I want! I want kids, but how many? I want kids, but when? I still feel like a kid... sometimes. I want to eventually marry the love of my life and do all of these things, when will I know it's the right time?

Los Angeles creates these moments for me because I'm so close and yet so far from my reality. I think I've subconsciously made the decision to create my own reality here... in the city of angels...

I love to love to love.

pumpkin PIE!

So... tonight I've begun my attempt to create a delicious pumpkin pie... from scratch! Fall is here (kinda for So Cal folks...) and I say it's time to ring in the season!
First I made the dough, it turned out to be pretty simple, but then I saw that the "process" of making great dough actually takes HOURS! So I'm not finished...
I'll let you know how it turns out! Wish me luck...

So... IT CAME OUT DELICIOUS!!! It's almost gone...

Voting for OBAMA!!

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE ADVISE EVERYONE YOU KNOW THAT THEY ABSOLUTELY CANNOT GO TO THE POLLS WEARING ANY OBAMA SHIRTS, PINS OR HATS, IT IS
AGAINST THE LAW AND WILL BE GROUNDS TO HAVE THE POLLING OFFICIALS TO
TURN YOU AWAY.

THAT IS CONSIDERED CAMPAIGNING AND NO ONE CAN CAMPAIGN WITHIN X AMOUNT
OF FEET TO THE POLLS. THEY ARE BANKING ON US BEING EXCITED AND NOT BEING
AWARE OF THIS LONG STANDING LAW THAT YOU CAN BET WILL BE ENFORCED THIS
YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THEY ARE BANKING THAT IF WE ARE TURNED AWAY YOU WILL NOT GO HOME AND CHANGE
YOUR CLOTHES.. PLEASE JUST DON'T WEAR OBAMA GEAR OF ANY SORTS TO THE
POLLS!! PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION, OH AND FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO WERE
ALREADY AWARE THIS WAS NOT MEANT TO INSULT YOUR INTELLIGENCE. JUST
TRYING TO COVER ALL GROUNDS.

Presidential Debates

This is such a unique opportunity to truly communicate to Americans. I'm still aghast at the fact that McCain is using the financial crisis to bail on the debate, because, seriously, he is ONE man. There is an entire Senate and House who work TOGETHER to create strategies and solutions, I'm just not convinced that by his presence and "focus" on the issue, that it'll actually be better handled. I also feel like that's a grandiose statement. If you truly feel your work and contribution in the Senate is that significant, than you better live to it! We should have concrete plans and action that will (not maybe will), but WILL lead to a solution... that's all I'm saying.

Most of the country has been waiting for a real debate between the two candidates, maybe this is, yet, another ploy to draw more attention to the Republican campaign (because we all know that haven't been getting the most positive feedback -insert Palin-) ? The idea of making people wonder whether or not he'll actually be present? I think it's kinda ridiculous... if you ask me.

Either way, it'll be a show of all shows. Please, McCain, don't show up! Give the entire platform to Barack, he'll do well with it... but I'd much rather see him wipe the floor with you. :)

Grey's Anatomy!!!

One of my favorite fabulous shows is premiering tonight... and I'm quite the excited one! I wanna talk about what I expect to unfold this season. But first, I must review what happened during last season, and especially focus on what happened in the two-part season finale.

The obnoxious, but fairy-tale like couple Meredith and McDreamy have finally come to the point where they know that they want to be together and they are willing to tell each other. This drama has been bogged down by fear of heartbreak, other men and women, proximity between both job and home and the fact that Meredith really does have some personal issues that she continues to struggle with.

My opinion: They both have issues... they should stick together rather than bring other level-headed folks into the mix.

The surprise between Callie and Erica Hahn was shocking... and yet, lack luster. Don't get me wrong, my jaw slightly dropped when Callie went in for the kiss, but the plot definitely lead us to that outcome via McSteamy getting Callie off through fantasizing about Hahn. That's gonna be interesting.

I love Dr. Bailey! It's a rare phenomenon: a Black woman being portrayed as both an intelligent professional as well as a mother. Although her character is very much "mama" oriented, she also has range in emotion: from extreme anger to sympathy and love.... I enjoy it!

I'm glad George stood up for himself... duh! You're awesome and would probably be my BFF if you were a real person in my life..lol.

As far as Alex is concerned, he definitely harbors some long-existing issues from childhood. His deal with "Jane Doe" turned Eva was a bit psychotic. I still don't quite understand how they characterized "Multiple Personality Disorder" as one being totally incapable of caring for herself... that was weird.

Lastly, Christina Yang's character is becoming a bit stale for me because she always had to hold the stereotypical, over-achieving, cold-blooded Asian student. Although, I did like when she showed her ass to Dr. Hahn and the Chief had her back... kudos for that.

I'm not sure what will happen, but I'm sure Meredith and McDreamy will encounter more problems (duh) to prevent them from having the fairy-tale lifestyle. The relationship between Callie and Hahn will definitely create even more drama at the hospital and we have to wait and see if Izzie is responsible with her new job as head of the Denny Deluca Clinic...

yay! Don't bother me tonight!

Things I like 9-25-2008

I like "almost rotten" bananas

I like coffee that's been sitting in my coffee pot for over 10 hours

I like playing with my feet ("They're my friends" according to my roommate)

I walk around naked... often

If I'm not singing in the shower... something is wrong

I miss him.

Me and Bert in front of Angkor Wat. (Cambodia)


Baby Chaka and Baby Albert playing on the beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.


My babe... it was so hot, we all took off our clothing!


...and our trips. Ahhhh!! I wish SD and LA were only 2 minutes and not 2 hours apart!!

Yes We CAN

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjXyqcx-mYY

I need love, love, love

What do you think about affection? I happen to be a very affectionate person. I enjoy giving hugs, kisses and love. Sometimes, I feel like people don't know how to react... and that's OK. But should I switch it up because others aren't necessarily affectionate? I'm not sure how I should go about this because people have said that I'm a "flirt"... which usually means I'm "too" nice. I believe that people recieve the same kind of energy that they exert. Yeah, I get pissed off, irritated, bitchy, etc. etc. but it's really difficult to get me to those points. Who wants to harbor these negative feelings for long periods of time?! Well... I don't! I'm nice, I've always been nice and I think one of my personal mantras is, in fact, the Golden Rule. "Treat others as you wish to be treated". I believe it works, and if it doesn't I don't feel ashamed or bad if I chose to say mean-hearted things or talk shit... We all do it, I just choose to do it as little as possible! I need love, love, love from my family, from my man and from my friends... that's not too much to ask! LOL

Edjamacation... it's eemportent

So... currently I work as a teacher in Los Angeles. If anyone really wanted to question the level in which education is taken seriously, I feel living and being involved in education, in Los Angeles, can clearly paint the picture. Education -actually obtaining a sound, productive, strong and innovative education is becoming extinct. Teachers are not motivated to put their all in to a system that treats them like expendable pieces of a puzzle. Teachers are no longer feeling like their work is appreciated. Why would one dedicate their life to the teachings of others when their own government feels it necessary to cut and cut and cut from the already dwindling funds set aside for education?!?! I don'T understand it! Individuals choose to truly give back to their communities or the institution of education and then they receive pink-slips because of budget cuts, are forced to purchase classroom resources from their own bank accounts, are required to work many more hours than the actual school day to be a productive teacher and still get paid kibbles and bits...

Why would high Achieving college grads want to invest in a profession that doesn't acknowledge the importance of this job? The long lasting effects of a great teacher are priceless, but why would I or anyone else teach and be shat on constantly? I'm dealing with an inner battle because I am actually passionate about my kids and their futures, but if their government doesn't care, what can I really do to make a difference?!?! I can effect the experience of those students who are in my classroom, but what about those students who lose a teacher, or have a teacher who is completely jaded by the system, that they're entire life goal is to make it to retirement??

It's so frustrating, teaching isn't for everyone; however, for those of us who actually see a future in it, why not be compensated and understood and respected for the work we do? Why are teachers barely making the cost of living, but are one of the arteries of the community while other sectors of life contribute NOTHING to the well being of our kids and earn oodles and oodles of cash? It's never made sense to me, and it never will.

The US used to be a force to reckon with, used to be amongst the best of the best in the world. Foreigners worked (and work) extremely hard to have the opportunity to be educated in the US, this is still very much the case, but for how much longer? As the quality of education decreases, the sectors of business, finance, economy, health, etc. must also fall... I see it as a domino effect, I hope the incoming President also sees it as such.

Black hair

So... I just finished my day which consisted of redoing my hair. I took out my braids... which I spent approximately 7 hours doing, then washed and pressed it. It took my entire Sunday! Why must our hair be so difficult to manage! I love it and I hate it at the same time. I've wanted to cut my hair short for a while now, maybe I will... something like Rihanna's...

look into my eyes

I've recently discovered how comfortable I am looking directly into someone's eyes.... especially during conversation. I don't know if I've always been this way, but I enjoy having at least the respect and attention to look into the eyes of the person to whom I'm speaking. Recently, I've noticed people look away or constantly look in every direction rather than directly into my eyes... it's weird. There's nothing about me that's actually intimidating, so I wonder.

Ciara on VIBE magazine cover

This is an interesting story. Famed R&B singer, Ciara, is going head to head with the magazine VIBE after this cover came out. She, apparently, did not pose nude, but VIBE editors photoshopped her clothes right off! How rude!

Presidential Debates!

Presidential debates are coming!

Please read this article, link is below!

What's your take on the fact that both McCain and Obama are open and willing to have a free-flowing debate which will open the opportunity for comments on all issues as opposed to a strictly structured debate in which answers are timed and candidates are not given the chance to speak freely? I believe it's great! It'll let viewers really know how prepared and knowledgeable these candidates really are!

Also, FYI, what does it look like when McCain's camp has pushed for the debate between Vice Presidential candidates, Palin and Biden, to have the structured agenda as opposed to free banter? I think it makes Palin look incredibly weak. In the ABC interview with Charlie Gibson, she repeatedly spoke about how she didn't hesistate to accept the position, and how she is prepared. Wouldn't that statement be proven if she were in a real debate? This is the nature of politics! C'mon!

"McCain advisers said they had been concerned that a loose format could leave Ms. Palin, a relatively inexperienced debater, at a disadvantage and largely on the defensive."
THIS IS WHY SHE IS NOT READY!! jeez...

read the article people!

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/21/us/politics/21debate.html?hp

Quick explanation...

I didn't intend to make my blog all about Politics, but it's the one thing that has overtaken my thoughts, has made me review my values and beliefs and has made me who I represent myself to be. I enjoy reading articles, watching news briefs and debates that focus, currently, on the Presidential duos and their platforms. I belief November will be a pivotal moment in history, either way, and I intend to stay as informed and educated as possible so that I can truly feel like I'm taking advantage of my right to vote.