Tha ish: Year in review 2010

I love the end of the year because I unashamedly embrace my opinionated nature (I am a Taurus after all!) and proudly share with you a few picks for the best and worst ish of the year. Check it out!


ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Drake
Was there any doubt? Honestly, even if you don’t like Drake, you got to admit that the brotha worked hard this year! He seriously got his grind on. He released an inordinate amount of music, guested on tons of other artists’ songs, and made me change my mind (yep, I originally didn’t like him). He deserves all the accolades that he receives.


Honourable Mention


Usher, Trey Songz and Lady Gaga. Each artist released tons of music, toured, and remained relevant for the entire year. A feat that is sometimes difficult to achieve.


FAVE NEW ARTIST


Melanie Fiona
She’s soulful, humble and budding songstress. I am proud of this T.Dot native.


WORST SONG OF THE YEAR


Love The Way You Lie, Eminem f/Rihanna
I like Rihanna and I like Eminem, but this song resulted in disaster. The hook was the best part of the song, but still, even that couldn’t change my mind. I hate this song!!


Honourable Mention


The Time (Dirty Bit), The Black Eyed Peas
I am probably the only female alive that HATES the movie Dirty Dancing (sorry! It’s way too cheesy!). However, The Black Eyed Peas rendition/remix of the song that is very much associated with the movie (I’ve Had the Time of My Life), is blasphemous. What possessed them to touch this song? It’s just wrong!


DUMBASS OF THE YEAR

T.I.
I actually like T.I. , but I don’t understand how he could do a stint in jail, and wind up back in the slammer just a few months after being granted his freedom. Yo T.I., you need better people in your life!


FAVOURITE VIDEO


Telephone, Lady Gaga, f/Beyonce
This video gives me everything I like in a video—cool storyline (okay, weird storyline), outrageous dance sequences, and bad acting. Loves it!


WORST VIDEO


Runaway, Kanye West
Perhaps I’m not the most cultured person (nope, that ain’t it!), but I did not like this video. I like artsy films, but Kanye’s mini-movie bored me. I sat through all 37 minutes; however my mind started to wander after the first two minutes. I did promise myself to watch it again to give it a fair shake, but damn it, I’m not sure if I can do that.


BLOG OF THE YEAR (tie)


CurlyNikki.com and theybf.com
I must, must, must visit these sites on a daily basis.
CurlyNikki.com is a blog devoted to natural hair; actually it’s more of a resource for women who want to learn more about how to have healthy natural hair. Believe me, it was INCREDIBLY helpful when I went completely natural (no extensions!) for 3 weeks. I am obsessed with this website.


The ybf (The Young, Black and Fabulous) is the brainchild of Natasha Eubanks. She dispenses juicy gossip and news from an exceptionally hilarious point of view.


Okay, so those were a few things that I liked about 2010. Howeeeeever....I couldn’t comment on 2010 without sharing with you my fave songs of the year. These are the songs that I loved, obsessed over and played repeatedly. Check ‘em out. They are in no particular order.


1. Find Your Love- Drake


2. OMG- Usher f/will.i.am


3. Teenage Dream- Katy Perry


4. Grenade- Bruno Mars


5. Window Seat- Erykah Badu


6. Deuces- Chris Brown


7. Girl in the World- Rihanna


8. Aston Martin Music- Rick Ross f/ Chrisette Michele and Drake


9. Unthinkable- Alicia Keys


10. Monday Morning and It Kills Me- both from Melanie Fiona

Have a happy and healthy New Year!CurlyNikki.com

Tha ish: Fave Christmas memory!

Although I’m not into the whole gift giving aspect of Christmas anymore (hello, commercialism!) , I have to admit, one of my most favourite childhood memories is when I received a gift that every little girl (back in the day) dreamed of owning.



I remember waking up that Christmas morning to a sea of presents (we didn’t have money when I was a kid, so I have noooo idea how my mom spoiled us with all those gifts!). I opened each present with bated breath. Each gift revealed some socks, clothes—basically things I wasn’t looking for. Then.... finally, I pulled a BIG present close to me and ripped off some of the wrapping paper. I could read some of the writing on the box. It read....Easy Bake.. OMG, it’s the Easy Bake Oven!!

Yes, I was the happiest girl in the world. I wanted it forever and my mom (the best mommy in the world) bought it for me. I stared at it all day long and asked my mom when I could bake something in the oven. She assured me that I could make something soon. I was actually too excited to bake anything. I just sat there and looked at it for the rest of the day. That was the best Christmas gift ever!


Hope your Christmas is just as memorable! Have a Merry Christmas!

Tha ish: Bahamas, baby!





Although I just got back from my 4-day cruise to the Bahamas (Dec 6-10th), I am in a total funk. I miss the palm trees, white sand and flirting with lascivious Bahamian men! I need another vacation! LOL



We visited Grand Bahama Island, Nassau, Freeport and Great Stirrup Cay. The islands were breathtaking. I have never seen water that colour in all my life! The water had such a vibrant turquoise-y colour that seemed unreal. I’m not much of a swimmer, but I had to dip my toes in the water just to fully experience it.


My favourite part of the trip was meeting a couple that operates Educulture Bahamas. It’s an organization that celebrates the culture of Bahamas. They provide a host of services. Everything from providing tours of the Junkanoo museum (Junkanoo is the major cultural festival of the Bahamas), to facilitating workshops and seminars. During our tour of the museum, we had the chance to make some Junkanoo music. Yes, I felt like a kid again banging on drums and shaking the bells!


I will say that I am very appreciative of the fact that I have consistently been able to get away from the blistery winter weather for the past 3 years. (FYI..it’s crazy cold in Toronto!) This trip was a little shorter than usual (I usually get away for at least a week), but I am soooo glad that I went. I have been completely stressed from work, and I really needed to take time out for myself to relax. I also went to celebrate my sis’ monumental b-day (don’t worry girl, I won’t tell them your age!).


Overall, Bahamas was gorgeous. I would like to go back to see and do more. Even though I’m totally missing being on vacation, I have my pics to warm my spirit! Yay!

Tha ish: Rick Ross f/ Chrisette Michele & Drake- Aston Martin Music

All I have to say is I loooooove this song.  I have listened to it at least 20 times since I downloaded it a few days ago. Can you tell I'm obsessed?  I don't care. I love this song!

Check the video here

Tha ish: Southern Accent

Honestly, there is no other food that I enjoy more than southern cuisine. It’s so comforting, simple and lip-smacking good.



I spoke about the yummy food I had at Harlem Underground (they specialize in Southern food with a Caribbean kick) a while ago, but I had to make mention of my latest fave eatery in Toronto—Southern Accent.


Southern Accent is funky little restaurant in the heart of Toronto, which specializes in Creole and Cajun flavours. Then restaurant is cozy enough for date night, and rowdy enough to spend a crazy night out with friends.


I visited the restaurant on two occasions and both time I ordered the same thing (I know that sounds boring, but my meal was sooooooooooooo good!). I ordered The Baton Rouge/Cajun Combo off the prix-fix menu. The meal consisted of blackened chicken, jambalaya, hush puppies, candied yams and collard greens. I know it sounds like a lot of food, but the portions were just enough for you to get a taste of the dish, so you won’t get too full.


The chicken was a little spicy, but so moist and tender that the heat didn’t really bother me (psst, yes, I am a Caribbean chick that doesn’t eat overly spicy foods!). The Jambalaya was so delish that it made me reconsider eating rice again. It was full of flavour, tasty and incredibly satisfying.


The side of candied yams, collard greens and hush puppies were equally scrumptious, but my fave item was the hush puppies.  I never had hush puppies before, and I will tell you that they are soooooooooo freaking good! They are made with cormeal, rolled into a ball and deep fried to perfection.  I need to know how to make it.


My friend ordered a big ol’ piece of cornbread with her dinner (I wanted to, but I knew that I was already having a lot to eat), so I stole a piece when she wasn’t looking. It was de-lec-ta-ble!!!!! It was moist, not too sweet--just plain yummy.  The next time I go back I will order two- one for my meal and one to take home with me!


Okay, I think I have pontificated enough about my wonderful experience at the restaurant. The food, ambience and staff were great. I can’t wait to go back!

Tha ish: Rihanna

Just when I was about to count Rihanna out of the game, she releases an infectious pop song, “Only Girl (in the World), and restores my faith in the Bajan beauty.



After her less than stellar cd Rated R, I thought that I would never listen to another Rihanna track. Her songs were dark, depressing and just bo-ring! None of her songs had that spark like her previous albums (*except for her single Hard), and in my opinion, nothing was worthy of a download.


Then, she released this upbeat, fun, playful song. I heard it just a few times and already knew all the words. I proudly sang it at work, in the car and in the shower. That’s when I know I’m feelin’ a song.


So I guess I’m back to being a Rihanna fan. I hope her next single is just as hot.


If you haven’t heard the song yet, check it here

Tha ish: Skinny jeans?

Me + skinny jeans = ????



Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought that my badunka dunk could fit in “skinny jeans.” (pssst....actually, it was more that I was opposed to wearing anything called “skinny” but that’s beside the point!). Okay, I knew my booty could technically fit in the jeans; I just I had no clue what it would look like.


I’m not really a fan of wearing tight fitting pants as I have very Nicki Minaj-esque hips (minus her booty. I don’t know what I would do with all that booty! LOL). I also wasn’t sure that the style would flatter me.


I recently thought that it was time to update my look. I have a lot of clothes for work, but my casual, weekend wear was starting to look kinda pathetic.


For the longest time I’ve been fighting the urge to buy leggings, skinny jeans or anything that looks like it’s painted onto your skin. But I started to wonder what they would look like on me. And to completely honest, I bought a pair of very comfy mid-calf suede boots and I wanted to wear something that would showcase its beauty.


With much apprehension I headed to the mall to look for leggings or skinny jeans. I tried TONS of stores and came up empty handed. Right before I decided to ditch the mall and go back home, I walked into Old Navy.


Honestly, I’m not really a fan of Old Navy. The sizes aren’t very consistent and I rarely find clothes that fit properly. It’s either way too big, or way too small.


I tried on 6 pairs of skinny jeans before I found one that looked good. Seriously, I was shocked on how good I looked. I had to check my booty a million times to make sure it looked good.....and it did!


So I bought the pair of jeans. As soon as I got home I put on a t-shirt, long cardi , my skinny jeans and my boots. I knew that I looked good, but I really wasn’t feeling the look. I was sooo used to wearing boot cut jeans that wearing skinny jeans kinda freaked me out. I even contemplated returning them. Don’t worry, I didn’t.


On Monday I went downtown to do some shopping —which also gave me an excuse to debut my new outfit to the world.


I must say, I looooove the jeans. They are beyond comfy and they look great. The jeans hug every inch of my curves and I love it!


Okay, so I am a total convert. I am sooo planning to go back to Old Navy and buy a few pair.


Me+ skinny jeans = : )

Tha ish: Let’s Talk About Pep

Now that I am back to writing about the random things I like, I thought about mentioning my new obsession with the reality show—Let’s Talk About Pep.



Not sure when this show first aired, but I have recently gotten into it.... and love it!!!!


The show focuses around Pep, a.k.a Pepa (from Salt-n-Pepa) who's been celibate for 4 years and is finally ready to enter the dating world and eventually get some.

The show also includes her BFFs Joumana, Kittie and Jacque, who are also on the lookout for a man. They all meet up once a week to update each other on the dates that they’ve been on. It’s basically the “urban” version of Sex and the City!


I looove this show because each week I get to see them flirt with countless men and go on a bunch of wild dates (I’m sooooo living vicariously through them.) Some dated bad boys, a guy with a foot/toe fetish, and one guy’s hair actually caught on fire during a date with Pep!

Even though the show is called Let’s Talk About Pep, my fave character is Kittie. She’s bold, in your face, and very much in control of her sexy—very Samantha Jones. I don’t know anyone like her, but she would be a lot of fun to hang out with!

Anyways, check some episodes here and let me know what you think!

Tha ish: Day 21... I made it!!!

Just in case you haven’t been reading tha ish religiously (*shame on you! LOL), I’ve gone on a 21 day challenge to live without my extensions, aka “fake hair”.


I’ve been natural for almost 10 years, but I’ve rarely worn my own hair. I did a couple of times (when money was tight), but for the most part, I’ve worn extensions and ponytails. (I haven’t done a full on weave, but I am actually quite curious about it...)


Over the past 3 weeks, I’ve gone through a million emotions. At the beginning of the journey, I felt daring and confident when I showed off my big ass afro. Then, my confidence took a beating and I felt a lot of frustration, anger, and feeling very unpretty.




My frustration came from not looking like my old self and not feeling attractive. To combat this feeling, I basically banished myself from the world over for my 3 week experiment (I only went to work, the grocery store, and I did a little bit of shopping). Yep, I’m serious. I tried to come off as confident and owning my look, but I’m not that good of an actress.


Believe it or not, I looooove natural hair. It is gorgeous and sexy when you have the skillz to style it. Unfortunately, my skillz aren’t on point, so I was pretty much irritated and frustrated for most of my challenge. My hair never looked good (or so I thought), so I never felt good.


I know a lot of people didn’t like my choice of hairstyles—I was actually told that to my face, (people can be soooo rude!), but I am glad that I challenged myself.


Well, I am getting ready to wash my hair. I have a hair appointment tomorrow morning and I’m getting my hair twisted. Yeah, I’m getting my extensions back. I honestly feel like those hair obsessed women in Chris Rock’s film, Good Hair : )


As much as I love my extensions I am glad that I was able to go outside my comfort zone and expose the real me to the world and myself. Naps and all!


Thanks for reading!


xxxoo

Tha ish: Day 16 - I’m sooo damn annoying

I must apologize to my mom, my sister, my friends, my co-workers and anyone else who has had to listen to me dwell on the trials and tribulations of my hair. Sorry, y’all. Just think, there are only 5 more days to my self imposed 21 day extension-free challenge!!



As much as I irritated everyone who has come in my path, I am soooo glad that I did this challenge. I’m glad that I got to be natural and love (not all the time) every inch of me. But I will save that speech for my last hair entry.


BTW, today was a relatively good hair day.  I rocked a cute side afro puff that is braided in the front. Sounds funky, but it came out pretty nice. I’ll try to post a pic soon.


anyways, time for bed.  Good night!

Tha ish: Days 9-12 of embracing my natural hair- aka "I miss my extensions!"

The uncomfortable feeling that I had on Monday pretty much spilled over the entire week. I had major hair issues. I wasn’t really feeling the style I was sporting, (sorry ma—my mom twisted my hair for me), but I had to keep it because I had no time (or skillz) to do anything else, and I also thought my frustration was part of the process of understanding my natural hair. My hair won’t look the way I want it to all the time, and that’s something that gets a little frustrating. At least I know which styles I like and suit me, and which styles I plan on never wearing again!!



I came thisclose to getting my hair flat ironed, but I didn’t want to give in and punk out. I need to embrace my nappy hair!


I did get lots of encouragement from a friend who is also a natural girl. She gave me a daily dose of support and tons of product knowledge on the various products out there for black hair. Thanks OQ!


I plan on rocking my fro for the last week of my challenge. (psst ....my 21 day challenge of being extension free officially ends on August 29th, 2010. I miss my old style (I wear my hair in twists with the aid of extensions), but I like wearing my own hair. I like the way it feels, the way it smells. Even though it drives me crazy when it does the things it does (FYI black hair is probably the only hair that shrinks!!!! ), I definitely love my hair.

Tha ish: Day 8 Sexy hair?

It’s funny (or weird), that since I’ve taken out my extensions, I actually feel like those crazy ass women on those makeover shows who freak out when their hair is cut. They think that they won’t be attractive anymore and that their husbands/boyfriends will no longer want them. I know my hair hasn’t been cut, but I kinda feel those women's pain.  I am now exposing the real me by unleashing every kink and curl to the world. Seriously, it can be overwhelming at times.



Today wasn’t such a bad day though. I spent the afternoon shopping (I didn’t buy anything) and trying to get used to my twists. I had to check myself out in every mirror that I passed to make sure that I looked okay. Yep, I’m neurotic!


On one hand I like the new style because the twists give me a cool, edgy, badass vibe, but on the other hand, I kinda wish my hair were longer so that I could feel a little more girly. Yes, I said it. I know it’s stupid and ignorant, but it’s how I feel. I know that my style looks good (my mother keeps telling me how good it looks. She’s such a mom!), but I still want to feel sexy and attractive. I am a single lady!


I guess I need to get used to the new version of me. I’m trying.

Tha ish: Days 5 – 7 of embracing my natural hair

Day 5 - August 13, 2010


I was actually pretty impressed with myself. I spent an hour cornrowing my hair last night and it came out very well. My mother even told me that it was WAY better than she expected. Big up to me!!


I wore my hair in an afro, but it wasn’t as cute as it was in the beginning of the week. It looked a little dry, but it was good enough to wear to the mall.


I bumped into an ex co-worker at the mall and she said that I looked like a kid with my new hairstyle. She said it looked nice (I don’t believe her!), but said that I should try to make it look softer and show my ringlet curls. I had to let her know that I was rocking my real hair and that my real hair doesn’t look like ringlet curls. I was a little annoyed by her statement, but realized she’s kinda ignorant about my hair texture, so I didn't dwell on it.


BTW I finally updated my facebook pic and showed off my afro. I was relieved and overwhelmed to get such a positive response. Thanks!


Day 6 - August 14, 2010


No major hair issues happened.


Day 7  August 15, 2010


I decided a couple of days ago that the next style that I was going to rock was twists (twisting my own hair, without extensions). I decided on twists because of its low maintenance. The afro was cool, but it took a lot of work for it to look cool.


I asked my mother a few days ago to twist my hair and she agreed to do it today. I was kinda shocked because my mom twisted my hair 2 whole years ago, and ungratefully I told her that I didn’t like the style on me as soon as she was done (possibly because I missed my extensions!). I subsequently took out the twists and ran straight to the hair salon one day later. My mother swore she’d never twist my hair again. Thankfully, my mother disregarded that, and patiently and lovingly twisted my hair today. Thanks, mommy!


It’s a shorter ‘do than I’m used to, but it looks nice. I have to get used to it. Don’t worry, I have no plans on untwisting it any time soon!

Tha ish: Day 4

Well it took me FOREVER to style my hair today. I really didn’t want to rock an afro puff, but after fussing with my hair for at least half an hour, I caved in and decide to put it in a side afro puff. I really wasn’t thrilled with the style, but I had no choice as I had to leave my house ASAP so I would get to work by 9:00am.



10:14 am I went to the bathroom and checked my hair. I still was unimpressed with my do. It was dry, lacked pizzazz. Not a good day. Thankfully, there was no one in the office today. LOL


Day 4 = Bad Hair Day!


12:33pm A friend dropped by my office and told me how much she liked my hairstyle. I thought the girl was being nice or was on crack, but then she said she wanted to steal the look. I told her to go ahead. Go figure. Sometimes I am my biggest critic.

Here’s a pic of the side afro puff.

Tha ish: Day 3...

Just in case you’ve stumbled on the website and want to know why I’ve deviated from writing about random things that I think are tha ish, well, it’s because I’m challenging myself to embrace my natural hair and not use extensions ( aka fake hair) for 21 days (* I have 18 more days to go). I plan on documenting this journey.

Today is day 3 of rocking a natural hairstyle.

7: 05 am   I woke up 25 minutes earlier than normal to start my day, ensuring that I had enough time to do my hair

8:00 am   I started to take my braids down (read: unbraid my hair)

8:30 am   After fixing my hair, I had to admit that my hair looked good! That shea butter worked miracles on my dehydrated hair. I like that my hair is moisturized and kinda fluffy.


I liked my hairstyle so much that I took a few pics so that I could update my facebook account [update: I still haven’t changed my profile pic yet.]


Although I left the house feeling great, I got a few comments that brought me back down to earth.


• “Why did you do that?”


• “I like it and I don’t”


• “I prefer your “other hair” better


• “I have no comment”


• “You are brave!”


Honestly, I had to laugh at some of the comments. I know they weren’t said to be hurtful; they were just telling me how they felt about my new hairstyle. No big deal. All that matters is how I feel. Anyways, tomorrow is another day.


p.s. Within seconds of arriving to work, my hair was fondled by one of my co-workers. Not cool!

Tha ish: Day 2 of being extension free

I didn’t have to work today, so I didn’t do much with my hair. I had to run a few errands, so I rocked an afro puff. I like the look, but not on me. Whenever I wear an afro puff, I always end up looking like I’m eleven years old.



When I came home, I asked my mom to braid my hair again (she cornrowed it on Sunday night. Yes, I know, I need to learn how to braid my hair!).


Natural hair is beautiful but the maintenance is a killer. I must spritz my hair daily with water and a leave in conditioner, and I must, must, must braid it at night. If I don’t, I will have a head full of tangles.


Yeah, I’m kinda missing the extensions today. I used to get up, take a shower and be ready to leave in a matter of minutes, now I have to decide the night before how I plan to wear my hair. Oh well.


p.s. I have to thank O. Q for providing me with unrefined shea butter for my hair. My hair loved it!!!! Also thanks for indulging me in talking about hair products, hair styles and natural hair care websites. I need all the help I can get!

Tha ish: My big ass afro

My big ass afro made its debut today. I normally wear my natural hair in twists with the aid of extensions, but after thinking about doing something different with my hair for the longest time, I decided I should let my natural hair take center stage.



I have truly loved being chemical free for almost 10 years (my 10 year nappiversary will be Dec 2010), but the thought of not having my “fake hair” scared me. Seriously. I’ve been protected by extensions for so long that being without them made me feel a little vulnerable. During the 10 years of being natural, I never took the time out to appreciate my nappy hair! : )


So for the next 21 days, I plan to be extension-free! I hope I can do it.


Don’t worry; I will document my day to day hair issues.


p.s. I liked the way my hair looked today. I got up extra early to tame my crazy hair, but all in all it looked cool. Here’s a pic of my ‘do.

Tha ish: Melanie Fiona

I’m slowly becoming a Melanie Fiona fan. She has definitely demonstrated that she has the voice and talent to become a great singer. And the fact that she's from Toronto doesn't hurt either : )

I first heard about her after the insane amount of buzz that she received after she released, “It Kills Me.” Damn, that song is one of the most powerful, emotionally charged songs I’ve ever heard in my entire life! It is sooo good it hurts! I knew that anyone that could release such a strong single was definitely talented, but being the sceptic that I am, I still wanted to hear more.

She released her second single, A yo, which was good. It’s not as powerful as It Kills Me, but her raspy voice sounded gorgeous on this track. I also liked the reggae-ish vibe of the single.

It was about two weeks ago when I knew I would ultimately become a fan. While I was as work, I heard a song on the radio that made me tune out everything going on around me. Seriously, the office could have been on fire, but I didn’t care. I had to hear the song. It had a motown-y, Lauryn Hill –ish feel, so I was hooked from the first few notes.

All I could remember was Monday morning, so I googled “Monday morning” and found out that it was the title to Melanie Fiona’s latest single.

When I realized that she released yet another hot song, I knew then and there that I had become a bona fide Melanie Fiona fan.

Big up to Miss Melanie Fiona! I know you’ll have a successful career!


p.s I think I love her even her more after I found out that she sang a song on the Reggae Gold 2008 compilation CD that I had always liked. She sang "Someone Come Get Me" (wicked tune!!!) , but had no idea who sang it (she used a pseudonym to record the song- Melanie ‘Syren’ Hall).

Tha ish: P. Diddy?

As shocked as you are to read Puffy’s, uh, I mean P. Diddy’s name, (BTW, he will always be Puffy to me!), I am even more shocked to write his name. I’m not hating on Puff, but I stopped being a fan of his music as of the late 90s. (psst...It’s All About The Benjamins is still one of my all time fave tracks!)



I was compelled to write about him in this post because I actually like his new song, Hello, Good Morning from his new group Dirty Money (featuring Rick Ross and T.I.). The beat is siiiick and the use of the synthesizers are sooo 80s!!! I love the production of this song. Honestly, you can strip all the lyrics and the song will still be good—possibly even better.


Puffy loves producing music for the dance floor, so if this song doesn’t move you to dance, you might need to check your pulse!


I will admit that even though I like this song, doesn’t it sound quite similar to Carry out—Timbaland featuring Justin Timberlake? Either way, I’m totally digging it.


I even like the cheesiness and 90s feel of the video. Strobe lighting, club scenes, a helicopter?? It’s too funny. (Don’t you think Ma$e is somewhere mad as hell wondering why he wasn’t in the video??)


anyways, check the video here and leave me a comment and let me know what you think of the song.

Tha ish: Alicia Keys

Has it been over a month since I’ve updated the blog? I hate that I’ve been sooo negligent. I’ve recently had a little more time on my hands than usual, and I guess I’ve been focusing on everything except my blog. Sorry about that. Hope you forgive me. Thanks! : )




I am a huge Alicia Keys fan. I love her music, her sense of philanthropy and her spirit (I know I don’t know her personally, but she seems like such a sweet person, no?). She is one of the few artists who consistently makes me believe in the power of music. Her songs are filled with passion, raw emotion and it usually strikes a chord with something going on in mi vida loca.



I heard a snippet of her single Unthinkable (I’m Ready) a few weeks ago and I thought it was cool. I heard it again in its entirety and I fell in love. I kept singing the chorus over and over again, which is a HUGE sign that it will become my fave new song. It made me recall past relationships that I’ve been in and how I dealt with it. The song is completely relatable.



The concept for the video complements the song beautifully. Alicia Keys and Chad Michael Murray play lovers in different eras (from the 50s to present day) and show how interracial dating is seen as taboo in all of the eras (FYI: I am of the thought that love sees no colour). We see how their families have a problem with their relationship (mainly Alicia’s on screen brother), and watch as they decide if they should pursue the relationship, ignore the dispproval, and follow their hearts.



I think the heaviness and the tone of the lyrics only heightens the drama in the video.  You start to root for the characters and hope that their love will make it.  I am such a hopeless romantic!


Anyway, if you love Alicia Keys, or just looking for a cool video, click here. Let me know if you love it!

Tha ish: Telephone- Lady Gaga feat. Beyonce

Have you seen Lady Gaga’s video for her song Telephone? I heard some of the buzz surrounding it but I quickly dismissed it as a callabo gone wrong. Honestly, Beyonce and Gaga on the same track? I already heard, and watched the video for Video Phone—Beyonce featuring Lady Gaga and I wish that I could have those 4 minutes back.

I asked my sister a couple weeks ago if she’d seen Lady Gaga’s latest video and she said that she did, but couldn’t describe it. She suggested that I see if for myself. Curiosity got the better of me and I immediately picked up my laptop and went onto YouTube.

I located the video and was surprised that it was a 9 minute video. Having the attention span of a 5 year, I thought that it would be damn near impossible for me to sit still for 9 whole minutes!

I parked myself in my comfy computer chair and got ready for the video. Within a few short seconds I knew that I was watching the coolest video (mini movie) I have seen in a VERY LONG TIME. Crazy yes, but oh so very entertaining!

The opening jail scene was hilarious. Seriously, who saunters into jail wearing haute couture? Only, Lady Gaga! I could not stop laughing at some of the outfits she wore. I love her creative genius.

The following car scene where she meets up with Beyonce is equally comical. Is it me or does she look heavily sedated? I think her eyes were closed for at least 2 minutes! LOL! Either way, I enjoyed her not so witty banter with Bey.

I also liked the sadistically humorous diner scene with Tyrese (he played the mean boyfriend), and the outrageous dance scenes throughout the video.

As I said earlier, the video felt more like a mini movie. The frenetic editing and the slow motion action scenes were reminiscent of a few Quentin Tarantino flicks. I was seriously wondering if Samuel Jackson would show up dancing in some of the scenes!

Overall, I love, love this video and now I am a total fan of the song.

p.s. I loved how they paid homage to Thelma and Louise at the end. Too cool!

Tha ish: Harlem Underground

Anyone who knows me knows about my insatiable obsession with Southern cuisine.  It’s a little odd since I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada and my mother is from Trinidad.  But for some reason or another I can’t help but be fascinated with fried chicken, biscuits, ribs and pulled pork.  Hey, I’ve even eaten grits and gravy before!

And yet, the southern dish that excites me the most is chicken and waffles.  BTW, they soooo go together!

When I visited Los Angeles 10 years ago, I had to hit up Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles. I heard it mentioned in plenty of movies, and heard celebs speak about it like it was the coolest place in the world.  Which of course will only intrigue me.  As soon as I touched down in Los Angeles, I begged my then boyfriend to take me to Roscoe’s.

The place ain’t much to look at, but the staff was so nice and the food was so damn tasty.  After I finished the last morsel of chicken, I wanted to go back for more. For years I would plead with my ex to ship me some fried chicken.  Sadly, that never happened.

Then this past weekend I asked my best friend if she’d like to meet up for dinner. She said yes and we agreed to meet at Harlem Underground. We already went to the sister restaurant, Harlem, last summer, so we wanted to see what this restaurant was like. 

I needed to know the address, so I did a search online and fortunately landed on their website.  So of course, I immediately looked at the menu.  When I got almost all the way down on the page, I was speechless.  Everything looked good, but then I saw, “Southern Fried Chicken & Waffles.”   I think my heart skipped a beat!  It was a done deal. That was what I was going to order.

As soon as we were seated at the restaurant, our waiter came over and asked if we would like to hear about the menu.   I said, “I already know what I’m getting.  It’s all about the chicken and waffles.”  He laughed then took our orders.

About 20 minutes later he came back and placed a plate full of fried chicken and waffles in front of me.   Yes, there was a tear in my eye!

I immediately went in for the chicken and dayum, it was yummy!!!  It was unbelievably crispy and succulent and not too greasy.   Why are my lips watering as I type this?!

Even though I expected a crunchy waffle, I was pleasantly surprised with the softest, most tender, waffle I’ve ever had.  Even the Chipotle-coriander lime maple syrup was fabulous.  Honestly, I can’t pinpoint what the best thing was about the meal.  Everything was outstanding. 

Just like with Roscoe’s, as soon as I shoved the last piece of chicken in my mouth, I made plans for my next visit.  I really should try something else on the menu, but you know what I’m gonna get, right?  Chicken and waffles!

Tha ish: Bring It On!

I had the most amazing morning ever! I felt just as good today as I did last week when I got a free facial courtesy of my employer. Today I was able to partake in yet another fun event. I got to take a dance class as a part of a staff appreciation. Woo hoo!



On this momentous day, I had the utmost pleasure of shaking my booty in a two hour dance class given by instructor extraordinaire, Laura Furtado. Let me tell y’all, it was the best dance class I’ve ever taken. I took a reggae fitness dance class a few years ago, but Laura’s high energy, bubbly attitude and great music selection made the session so much better.


We started off with some hip hop dance moves which I completely ate up (I was soooo channelling my inner Missy Elliot), and then we worked our way into Bhangra/Bollywood style of dance. I had soooo much fun doing moves that I’ve seen in music videos and on the millions of dance shows.


I signed up for this class because I really don’t exercise at all and I would really like to start. It’s kinda funny because this class didn’t feel like exercise at all. I guess because I was jumping around having too much fun. Mind you, as I type this entry, I feel pain in my waist, booty and thighs! It’s a good pain though. LOL.


One of the coolest things that we did during the 2 hour dance class was that Laura divided the class into two groups and had us battle each other. I felt like the dancers you see battling it out on those cheesy dance movies. So, I of course, was getting cocky and excited knowing that I would soon show the class that I got the moves down pat. And, as luck would have it, I got a little toooo eager and half way through the routine I forgot the moves! Heheheh! I stumbled through the last part but I still had a good time.


I totally recommend taking Laura's sessions. I plan on taking more of her classes very soon. But before then, I plan on using some of the moves we learned in class up in da club! Holla!

Tha ish: My very first facial

I am a relatively low maintenance girl. Okay, I do take care of myself! I get my hair did regularly, and I think I put myself together nicely, but I just never got into really girly things like getting manicures, pedicures, massages and facials. I’m kinda shy and I don’t like people that I don’t know touching me. I know....I got issues!




Today, while on my J-O-B, I was invited to check out a new spa. Lucky, eh! So I called a friend from another department, and told her that I would book appointments for the both of us. I originally made an appointment for a manicure for me and a facial for her, but since I had to go back to work and I didn’t want to mess up my nails, at the last moment, I decided to go with the facial as well.


My friend went into the room first and I was led by my aesthetician 5 minutes later. I noticed that my friend was lying on the facial/massage bed, topless. Her breasts were covered, but I wondered if she was getting a massage instead.


So I jokingly asked my aesthetician, “Do I have to take my clothes off?” She said yes. She saw the look of terror on my face and asked if I was okay. I sheepishly said that I was okay and casually whipped off my top and necklace. I put on the robe and jumped on the facial/massage bed. Before she got started with the facial, she asked me to slide down my bra straps. Okay, does this not sound like the beginning of some soft-core porn? I am getting a facial, why must I be topless!!


I complied and moved down the straps. Then my facial started and I closed my eyes. She carefully took off my makeup and gently massaged my face. Damn, that felt good. Then I felt warm oils massaged into my face, neck and shoulders. Ohhh, damn again! I was slowly but surely becoming a “facial-girl”.


For about 45 minutes I lay motionless while she rubbed and worked my skin, massaged my temples and played with my ears. Ahhhh, I honestly never knew how good facials were. This is something that I plan on doing for a boyfriend.


When she finished and I put my top back on, I told her that I’d be back, and she said, I know! I love how she knows she’s tha ish!


p.s. ain’t the hot steamy towels completely soothing? Man, I am going back just for that! That feels GOOOOOOD!