What is With These Grown Men Dressing Like Teenagers?

Los Angeles is a funny town. I swear I can't count how many times a day I see grown men walking around in tee shirts, shorts, tennis shoes and jerseys. It's almost as though I've regressed back to junior high or high school. These dudes look like fools, and I'm even more bothered when I see some woman with them who looks just as bad. I was in a restaurant where this guy had his pants hanging so low, he had to walk like a bow and arrow to keep them up, bending his knees every few steps just to make sure his pants didn't fall down to his ankles. It was pathetic. Why this seems to be so popular in Los Angeles, I'm not sure. I think it's due to the gang culture and these O.G. triple O.G.'s feel that it's some sort of status symbol to continue to dress like they're starting riots back in '93. I had someone close to me get very upset when I pointed out some flaws in his attire. He's over 35, so I tried to explain to him he looks silly walking around in jeans with thirty different colors, a huge belt buckle, and tennis shoes. No boo, try again. Ladies we have failed and have let these men think that this is okay. It is not okay. It is pathetic. There's rules to this, I wrote me a manual. Get it together fellas. Pull your damn pants up!!

The Starbucks Theory

I never bought into the idea of sitting up in Starbucks with my laptop, but Saturday I did it for the first time. Surprisingly amidst the chaos of a chess competition, loud jazz music, and middle-aged cigar smokers, I managed to get 10 pages of my spec done. It's the most of a spec I've done in one sitting. Usually when I'm at home, it's hard for me to concentrate because of other distractions like the dog, the loud a$$ neighbors, the TV, LAPD's finest circling the neighborhood in helicopters, and the guys down the street who have to let everyone know they have dual-exhaust on their old school El Camino's. That's what I get for moving to L.A.

Starbucks provided a weird solace and a hard chair that made me focus on the screen in front of me. Armed with the pilot script of the show I'm doing the spec for, I managed to use the outline I wrote at home to spit out 10 pages of a draft. Now here it is Monday morning, and I'm sitting in another Starbucks preparing to do the same thing. I have one more week before I go back to work so I plan to use Starbucks as boot camp and get this draft done.

I'm not sure if it's just the idea or simply the change of environment that sparked my "pen" but whatever it is, it worked. I just might have found a new home. LOL Now, excuse me while I write, I've got TV money to make.

Love Letters....

Emails, faxes, texts, does anybody write love letters anymore...

Here's the infamous love letter from which Big quoted to Carrie in the Sex & the City movie. Romantic.

Beethoven - Love Letters of Great Men
Good morning, on July 7
Though still in bed, my thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved, now and then joyfully, then sadly, waiting to learn whether or not fate will hear us - I can live only wholly with you or not at all - Yes, I am resolved to wander so long away from you until I can fly to your arms and say that I am really at home with you, and can send my soul enwrapped in you into the land of spirits - Yes, unhappily it must be so - You will be the more contained since you know my fidelity to you. No one else can ever possess my heart - never - never - Oh God, why must one be parted from one whom one so loves. And yet my life in V is now a wretched life - Your love makes me at once the happiest and the unhappiest of men - At my age I need a steady, quiet life - can that be so in our connection? My angel, I have just been told that the mailcoach goes every day - therefore I must close at once so that you may receive the letter at once - Be calm, only by a calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together - Be calm - love me - today - yesterday - what tearful longings for you - you - you - my life - my all - farewell. Oh continue to love me - never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved.
ever thine
ever mine
ever ours

Everything Happens for a Reason

I believe that there are no accidents and timing is everything. In a split second, something can change your life, make you go left or right. People often come into our lives for a period of time to show us things, sometimes they return, sometimes they do not. You may find yourself in a job you hate for a short period of time where you meet someone who could change your life. You could be anywhere, a hospital, a pharmacy, a bank, standing in line at the post office.

Ironically today, I met someone who happens to have a connection to a particular TV show I want to write for. He was standing behind me in line. He started talking to me about my tattoo. We chatted and low and behold got on the subject of working in entertainment. He works for a studio and his girlfriend works for a show which incidentally is filmed where I work--a show I want to write for. Now what were the chances of us meeting. I guess If I had entered the parking lot from a different angle, and gone in a second later, I wouldn't have been in front of him, he never would have seen my tattoo, and we never would've had our conversation.

Well, my new friend has invited me to a networking event next week where I hope to meet other like minded people. I am a writer first and foremost. It is me 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I love writing drama, comedy is too rehearsed for me. I'm funny by nature but putting it on paper is such a cliche. To write for TV is my dream job, so that said, the lesson today is, pay attention to everyone you meet, and every place you go. You never know what will happen. I'll keep you posted.

I Say Less Rent & More Pay in a Recession

If America wants to do something for it's people, lower rent, and increase pay. For those of us who live in a big city like Los Angeles or New York where the rent is astronomical for a piece of nothing, during these trying times, why not lower the rent. Most of these property owners have made their money, and if they maintained their properties over the year, there wouldn't be a need to invest tons of money to repair things. California has some of the lousiest landlords on the planet. In Los Angeles, if you find a halfway decent apartment in a halfway decent neighborhood, your are going to pay a pretty penny for it. You may get 700 square feet and your rent will be $1200, absurd. Especially when there is no air conditioning, no washer & dryer or washer and dryer connections, no patio or balcony, and no covered parking. It's insanity. And I ask myself, why am I not luxuriating in my 2 bedroom 2 bathroom, 950 plus square feet condo in Texas? Because I decided to try my hand at this Hollywood thing, so here I am, living in a beer can with champagne rent. Go figure.

How to Choose the Right Handbag

Choose versatility. If you lead an active lifestyle socially or professionally, you need a handbag to take you from day to night with ease. Select a bag that offers flexibility and style.
Choose luxury. A designer handbag may be worth the investment. Owning a piece of luxury can last you several years if you take care of it. I have Louis Vuitton bags that I have owned for more than a decade. Invest wisely and you'll get a lot of miles out of your handbag.
Choose style. What is it about your handbag that stands out? A great bag will look good with just about anything. A great bag is a conversation piece that will have strangers walking up to you with adoring looks. A great handbag will help establish you as a style goddess and set you apart from the rest.
Choose the right size. Does your handbag have enough room for your wallet, make-up, and day planner? Make sure your bag holds everything you need, but don't bog yourself down with unnecessary items. Only carry what you need.

Life & Music

During my post myomectomy recovery, I have been listening to music throughout the day. I thought about how a certain song can bring back so many memories or evoke emotions. There are certain songs I listen to that can still get me teary-eyed no matter how long it's been since I've heard them. What is it about music that does that? It's almost like the artist is listening to your soul at the very moment they record the song, and somehow when it's released, it finds a away to hit you at the right time. It's crazy sometimes, because no matter how old a person is, if they hear a song that meant something to them, they can tell you exactly what they were doing or going through at the time the song was released. I remember in 1994 when Mary J. Blige's My Life Album came out, I thought she had been reading my mind. I played that album every day all day, and I could relate to just about every single song on the album. I booted up my Itunes this morning and played it and it took me back to 1994. Sometimes we need to revisit the past to help us get to where we're going in the future. I needed to go back in time for a moment...I advise you to do the same.

The Pencil Skirt: Always on Point

If there is one item that more versatile in my closet than my little black dress, it's my little black pencil skirt. Pencil skirts can be paired with just about anything, a fitted white tee, a ruffled blouse, a sweater, or a leather jacket. Pencil skirts are chic and elegant and can complement any frame. Invest in one or two and see how many looks you get out of them!

I'm Fibroid Free Thanks to My Myomectomy

Wednesday morning, after waiting for another hour after my scheduled surgery time, I went under for my myomectomy. I've been diagnosed with them since 2001. Over the years they went from 2 centimeters to 6! So, after having them monitored over the last several years, I decided to just to it. Unlike a hysterectomy, a myomectomy saves your uterus so that you can have children. Uterine fibroids are common minorities, particularly African-American women. They feed off of estrogen, found in most birth control pills. Could they be the cause? Not necessarily but they do make them grow.

After they wheeled me to the room for surgery, all I remember is the anesthesiologist saying, "I'm going to give you something to relax you." Then a couple of hours later, I woke up in a comfortable hospital bed. I had been having severe trouble with fibroids for some time, but thanks to my doctor, I am fibroid free. He removed 15 (yes fifteen) fibroids, including one that was hiding out in my uterine cavity. I am relieved. Once I'm out of the hospital, I begin my reinvention!! I would upload the pics, but I don't think anybody wants to see those big masses of tissue, right?

Lemon Drop Cocktail

Lemon Drop
Ingredients:
- Citrus flavored vodka
- Lemon
- Lemon & Sugar on the side
- Glassware: Shot Glass

Making multiple shots:
If a shot glass holds 3 ounces when making 4 shots, the total amount of mixture in a cocktail shaker should be 12 ounces. (3 glasses x 4 drinks = 12 ounces). If a cocktail contains three ingredients, pour one ounce of each ingredient. Pour the mixture into each shot glass equally.

Interior Decorating for the Stylish Woman

A wise woman once said, "Your home is a reflection of you." Look around your room, what does it say about you? Is it neat? Is it pretty? Is it comfortable? Your home should be a place where you can go to unwind and enjoy the life's simple pleasures. Here's a few tips for making your place more inviting.

1. Add Color. Choose a color theme for each room. If you can't paint the walls because you rent, use accent pillows or rugs to add a dose of color to the room. Using several shades of the same color family can create a delightful contrast.

2. Center your room around one piece of furniture. Never buy all of your furniture from one store. Select one piece and build the room around it. My florist has a great red bookcase from Ikea she paid $279 for (see picture). Buying a statement piece can give your room a unique look.

3. Hide flaws. Rugs can cover an ugly floor. A hanging picture can hide a bruised wall, a new finish on furniture, or a coat of paint on the wall can make an old room look new. Be creative and reinvent what you already have.

4. Accessorize your room like you would an outfit. Adding pieces such as a huge vase, a unique end table, a heirloom lamp, a rug, or custom painting give a drab room flavor.

5. Don't overcrowd the living room. You don't want your place to look like a furniture store. Leave plenty of room in between furniture. You don't want anyone injuring themselves because your furniture is too close together. Opt for a sofa, a chic sectional, or a nice chaise and a small chair if you're limited on space. Choose multifunctional furniture for versatility.

6. Give your bedroom five star treatment. Your bedroom should be luxurious. Even though you may not spend a lot of time there, when you do, you want to enjoy it. Bedside tables, fluffy pillows, subtle lighting, and luxe linens can do the trick. I bought 300 thread-count sheets at Bed, Bath & Beyond and I can tell the difference between them and sheets with the lower thread count. For deals on sheets, try TJ Maxx stores or Anna's Linens. Ross may also have some great deals too.

7. Invest in candles or reed diffusers to make your home smell nice. They are inexpensive and eco-friendly.

8. Keep your bathroom clean and organized. There's nothing worse than a filthy bathroom. Keep yours clean and organized. If you're limited on space, use shelving units or containers to hold cosmetics.

9. Remember less is more and luxury does not have to cost a fortune. Invest in key pieces and use ad-ons to add your own special touch.

10. Shop smart. Bed Bath & Beyond and Linens & Things have coupons (and you can use either stores coupons at the other store. Target also has great items for the home and decent furniture. Ikea has great pieces for folks on a budget.

Store Recommendations:
Bed Bath & Beyond
JC Penney
TJ Maxx
Anna's Linens
Macy's
Target
Pier One
Z Gallerie
Pottery Barn
Crate & Barrel

10 Style Tips for Fabulous Women...And Those Who Aspire to Be

1. Dress for the woman you want to be. Not quite where you want to be in your career? Missing Mr. Right? Well look the part and all good things will come. Play up your assets and invest in a quality wardrobe that sets you apart from the rest. You don't have to be a millionaire to dress like one. Develop your own personal style just like Jackie O did and Michelle Obama has.

2. Don't be a label whore. No one can see them anyway. If all you care about is labels, you have a pretty shallow existence. Buy what fits, what works, and what you can afford. Leave logos limited to one item, and if you simply must buy designer, by all means do so. But don't get mad when you see it for half the price on the rack at Off Fifth. Exercise good judgment when you're shopping.

3. Invest in a good shoes and a killer handbag. Some handbags (i.e. Louis Vuitton Speedy, the Birkin) are timeless classics. Not everyone can afford or even likes those bags, but you should own one killer bag at least once in your life. Buy quality or quantity but for tooling around town, a nice cheap bag will do. Try Baghaus (www.baghaus.com) for similar celeb styles.

4. Keep up appearances. Never get caught with a scarf on your head. Try to get your hair done as often as possible. If all else fails, pull it into a ponytail. If you have a short cut, keep it maintained because fuzz is not cute. A nice mani-pedi will keep those hands and tootsies in order too. Acrylic is a little played in 2008 so if you need to grow your nails, pop a biotin vitamin and keep it movin'.

5. Choose the right accessories. Buy jewelry, tons of it, lots of it, boats of it. Jewelry can make one outfit into 1000 outfits. Add a different bag or different shoes and you're in business. Invest in clutches brooches, statement necklaces, bangles, everything. Change up your looks with accessories, they are a Godsend times ten.

6. Stop making excuses about your weight. Everyone is not made to be a 2, 4, or 6. If your weight is making you unhappy, put the cake down and do something about it. you can enjoy the benefits of a gym with no membership fees by walking around the block in your neighborhood. Plug in those I-Pod headphones and zone out. Before you know it, you may drop a size or two.

7. No one wants to see your gut or butt. If I see one more woman with a extra medium tee-short on when she knows she needs a XL, I'm going to scream. No one wants to see your stretch marks, tattoos, fat, or any other gut lesions. Pull your shirt down please!! There's kids in here. And the cleavage (butt or breasts), if you can sit a plate on it, it's too much.

8. Learn to walk in heels. Flats are not sexy. If you aren't good at heel-walking, practice in your garage, hallway, or on the bathroom floor. Two inches is the minimum to qualify as a heel. Every woman should own at least 3 pair.

9. Keep your house clean and learn how to cook. There's nothing worse than a trifling woman my Paw-Paw used to say. I live by that and I detest triflingness. Who wants to see all your clothes sprawled on the living room floor or dirty dishes in the sink? In the bathroom unplug the curling iron after you use it, wrap it in a towel, and put it away. Guests should not be worrying about electrocuting themselves when they visit. Hamburger helper is not cooking. It's browning meat, adding water, and boiling. Cooking requires more than one pot and utensil.

10. Know how to take a compliment and know how to give one. There is nothing wrong acknowledging something you like. It's graceful.

Meet Market: Where & How to Meet Men

Forget about listening to your bitter girlfriends who declare all men are dogs, married, or gay. Quite the contrary, there are a lot of available men just dying to meet you. The key thing to remember is men are just as intimidated as we are when it comes to the approach. If you're a little nervous about approaching a guy, think of it as shopping. You browse the racks, see something you like, then you grab it (no pun intended). It's not as hard as we think, it just requires a little skill and patience.

Where to Meet Men:
The Grocery Store: I can't tell you how many men I've come across while browsing the aisles of my local grocery store. The single men almost always look lost, and they're perfect for you. Ask them if they need some help. If he declines, he may have a woman/wife, so move on. If he welcomes your assistance and strikes up a conversation, you got him.

Social Events: Not necessarily the club, but a cocktail party, a movie screening, or Superbowl party are all great places to meet men. Men are more lax in social settings. Their guard is down and they welcome the attention from females because it makes them feel special.

Coffee Houses: I don't drink coffee so I buy tea at my local Starbucks. Often times there will be guys there for the same reason you are, to meet someone. he may be reading a magazine or typing away on his laptop, but chances are you can strike up a conversation with him and find yourself with a date later that week!

The Cell Phone Store: After spending a couple of hours in the Sprint store this weekend, I realized it's a "meet market". Guys come in to pay their bills, upgrade, buy accessories, or have their phone fixed, and while they do it, seeing you there would be a nice treat. Men love to talk, so if you meet a guy here, chances are he'll have a lot to say. Smile, and take it all in. But keep the attention on him at first, you can tell him how fabulous you are later.

The Gym: I don't work out. Sue me, I'm lazy and I don't like the sweaty smell. But every once in a while I'm shallow enough to go with my sister to the gym to see the hot guys and get my flirt on. The gym will also let you know if a guy takes care of himself. The dedicated athletic types are usually in a zone when they work out. The best way to approach them is to ask for help with something.

How to Meet Men:

Dress your best. Look like something, not something that just rolled out of bed and showed up. Men are visual creatures so be a vision of loveliness.

Be friendly and smile. I used to keep a permanent frown on my face when I was much younger. It was a defense mechanism to keep people out of my face. As I got older, men would say, "You too pretty not be smiling." So I started smiling, not cheesing, just smiling. And if I don't say so myself, I have a great smile (and good teeth). Smiling makes you approachable, and men find that very attractive.

Be positive. Don't be a sistah that bashes men and blames all men for one's mistake. there are some good guys out there. Having a positive attitude will benefit you in the long run.

Compliment him. If he's wearing something you like, he smells good, or he drives a nice car, tell him. Be sincere with your compliment. Men have b.s. detectors too.

Don't move too fast. Take getting to know him slowly. Rome was not built in a day so don't start planning your wedding a week after you meet him. Savor the moment and don't expect too much. Pressuring a man before he is ready can lead to disaster.

8 Great Colognes for Your Beau

I love to nuzzle in under a man's neck and inhale his scent. With these 8 fragrances, I don't mind doing it even more.

Gucci by Gucci
Dolce & Gabbana The One
Emporio Armani Diamonds for Men
Davidoff Adventure
Hilfiger
Burberry Touch for Men
Burberry Brit for Men
Rocawear 9IX (pictured)

Men We Love: 50 Cent

Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson
Hails From: Jamaica Queens New York
Sign: Cancer
Why We Love Him: Because he's cocky and charming and cleans up nice.
Why We Hate Him: Because he's cocky and charming.
Well-Known Relationships: with his son's mother, Shaniqua Tompkins, Vivica Fox
Rumored Flings: Nia Long, Mya, Megan Good, Brandy, and Elise Neal.

Resume
Recording Artist:
2003-"Get Rich or Die Tryin'"
2005-"The Massacre"
2007-"Curtis"
2008-"Before I Self Destruct"

Guest Appearances-Recording Artist
2003 "Beg for Mercy" (G-Unit)
2008 "T.O.S. Terminate on Sight"

Films
2003-"50 Cent: The New Breed"
2005-"The Simpsons" - Pranksta Rap
2005-"Get Rich or Die Tryin'" as Marcus
2005-"50 Cent - Bulletproof"
2006-"Home of the Brave" as Jamal Aiken
2008-"Righteous Kill" as Spider
2009-"50 Cent: Blood on the Sand"
2009-"Streets of Blood"
2009 "Spectacular Regret"
2010-"The Dance"

Business Ventures:
G-Unit Clothing
G-Unit Records
G-Unit Publishing
Vitamin Water

Made the:
Forbes "Celebrity Top 100" List
#26 (2008)

Socially Correct: How to Handle Sticky Social Situations

You arrive at a cocktail party and find another woman is wearing your dress.
Of course you'll be looking more fabulous, so if the woman with great taste in clothes comes your way, stop her and tell her you like her dress. Most likely she'll be gracious and you'll share a good laugh. If she looks at you like you're crazy and keeps walking, laugh it off and keep it moving. Grace over ignorance any day.

You are chatting with a group and someone makes a negative comment about what will happen if a black man becomes president.
Politely remind them that the country is diverse and it is ignorance that prevents our country from progressing and move away.

You're on a date with a great guy and as he leans in to kiss you, you get a dose of his hideous breath.
Smile sweetly and go for his cheek, then mention that he could use a mint or two. If it's really bad, you have to decide if you're really interested in this man. If so, you may have to hint around to him handling his halitosis issue if he wants another date.

You run into an acquaintance and they call you by another name without breaking stride they can't remember how they know you.
Say, "Hey, oh I'm__________________, we met at_____________________" and go from there. I'm bad with names but I always remember faces so if I approach someone, I ask them their name graciously and they usually don't have a problem telling me.

An attractive guy catches your eye but you don't know how to approach him.
If possible, get close to him and strike up a conversation. I've found that if a guy is already checking you out, approaching him is easy to do. He's already given you a sign he's interested, but he may be intimidated. Make him laugh. This can ease the tension in a social setting.

At your bridal shower, you open a gift from a close friend and you hate it.
No matter what, keep smiling. If it's truly bad, everyone in the room will let her know it. If she tries to justify it let her, but the chances are if everyone else hates it, she knows you do to. Hopefully, she'll get the hint and offer to buy you something else--or a gift card.

You're out to dinner with your man and while you're seated at the table, the woman next to you is talking loudly on her cell phone.
We all know some people are just plain rude so you have to be careful how you approach them. Give her "the look" first. What's the look? The expression on your face when you show you're clearly irritated but it isn't obvious. Cut your eyes a bit, keep your lips press together, and let your nose flare. (Sounds crazy but it works) If she doesn't get it, ask politely to tone it down, or if you're a little scared, ask the waiter. If she continues, ask to be moved. Who needs all the drama.

You show up at a party over/under dressed and everyone is looking at you like you took the last canape.
If you're really uncomfortable, leave and change. The first thing I ask when I receive and invite is "What's the dress code?" There's nothing worse than wearing jeans when everyone else has on dresses. Apologize to the host, hell lie if you have to about not having time to change or say you just got off an airplane.

A friend has gotten a little too tipsy and is making a fool of herself.
Take her by the hand, escort her to the restroom, and scold her like your mother would if you had broken her favorite China dish. Because the company you keep determines the trouble you meet, you don't want people thinking less of you because of your friend's behavior. While I could care less what people think, I'm not crazy enough to let someone else make me look bad.

Hidden Jewel: BrocadeHome.com

I stumbled upon this site by accident while looking for a table for my living room. Started by former West Elm founder, Lisa Versacio, Brocade Home is romantic chic with a twist. In the collection you'll find deep, muted colors and collections reminiscent of your great grandmother's furniture. The site has done so well, they've temporarily stopped taking orders! Well, now you know.

10 "Beautiful" Things to Do With Vaseline

1. Put it under your eyes at night as a moisturizer.
2. Rub it into your cuticles.
3. Smooth it onto your dry, chapped lips.
4. Rub it on your feet and cover them with white cotton socks.
5. Slick your hair back into a bun with it.
6. Put it on your teeth for a beautiful smile.
7. Use it as an eye make-up remover.
8. Put it on your ashy elbows and kneecaps.
9. Rub it on your hands and wrap them in plastic for an intense moisturizing treatment.

New BFF's??

We're used to seeing Regina Hall or Gabrielle Union beside Sanaa Lathan, but it looks like she's traded them for her new BFF Nia Long. The two ladies attended a fundraiser for Presidential Candidate Barack Obama in Hollywood.

Do Men Send Flowers Anymore?

Forget the traditional Valentine's Day bouquet. Do men send flowers at any other time? Just because? It seems that dating (courting for those born prior to 1965) has gone out the window. Why do grown men refer to spending time with a women as "kicking it"? What are we kicking?

Because I am a hopeless romantic, I refuse to believe that chivalry is dead. But I've seen it die more than once. I was out at Magic Johnson's Friday a couple of weeks ago and this couple walks up to the door. The woman stopped to open the door for the man who proceeded ahead of her WTF??? When did women start opening doors for men?? I missed that memo (thank God) and I hope I don't ever get it.

I've had to slow myself down in relationships (when I walk) because I'm always trying to "get ahead". I've had boyfriends in the past be chivalrous, and there's been some who simply don't have a clue. On a date, I'm not paying unless I asked (and I don't) because there's just some things I think a man should do. Ladies never pay. I'm not one of these modern day independent women who "don't need a man" for anything yet they will sleep with someone's boyfriend or husband without a second thought. I didn't come from the era where women go to work and men stay at home. It's just not in me to be a "Cake Mama".

In the past I've done things for boyfriends--probably too much and it wasn't appreciated. A couple did nice things for me. I've gotten clothes, money, jewelry and such, but I've given them things as well. I'm big on appearance so if I see something I think my man might look good in, I'll buy it. Chances are my tastes are better than his anyway (Sorry fellas, I'm a pro at this shopping thing) and I have yet to have anyone tell me they don't like something I bought.

And flowers? I've gotten them a few times but not as many times as I would have liked. Where are the old school GENTLEMEN? Do they exist? Do they still open car doors, pay for meals, hold your hand, and bring you soup when you're sick? Where they at. And send Cala Lillies or Tulips...Roses bore me.

Jada Pinkett-Smith Kills It!

Jada-Pinkett Smith is one Bad Bish. She's come along way since her days on "A Different World", which proves that money, a rich man, and a good stylist can work wonders!

She looked absolutely gorgeous when she appeared on the David Letterman Show in NYC. Minus the ugly handbag, I'll take Jada's outfit in a size 2 please. And Bish, I'm coming for those shoes!

Looking your best can get you anything!

Bruthas Give Good Customer Service

I spent the duration of my Saturday in a Sprint store with the hope of getting a wireless signal from my phone for my new laptop. After an exhausting day that started at 10:15 a.m. when I arrived at the store, I am officially glad it's over.

I made an appointment, had to wait, got deleted off the appointment list somehow, only to have to leave my computer and phone with the store. Normally I don't play when it comes to my laptop, after all, I am a writer and I have tons of files on it. God forbid anything happen to them, and yes I save them on multiple devices just in case. Aside from that, Ronnie, a handsome brutha with dreads assured me it was okay.

I returned a half hour later but they were still working on it. Another hour later, they told me the battery on my laptop had gone dead so I left the power cord with them. Another hour later, I return and Ronnie told me Tyrone would take care of me.

And he did. Because I was so patient and charming (smile), they gave me a wireless card for $50 and a free month of service. I told Tyrone I would kiss him if I could, but I hugged him instead. Oh and Troy, who was the first one to help me was great too. I'm glad they hooked me up. Now, I'm officially hooked up...now what about these bills I gotta pay...

Hudlin Gets the Boot at BET!

I can't exactly say I'm surprised or upset that Reginald Hudlin, former president of BET Networks received his walking papers. BET hasn't exactly been on my hit list lately. In the last several years they managed to encourage the stereotypes that perpetuate the opinions of folks and how they view Black people--African-American for those who are politically correct.

The fact that BET refuses to include quality programming has added to my already low opinion of the network. Forgive me junior, but seeing hip-hop videos, scantily clad women, luxury cars, bling-bling and bafoonery such as that on shows like Hell Date and the now defunct Hot Ghetto Mess, do not excite me. Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but even in my twenties I saw some things in the genre (hip-hop) that made me put my head down.

Don't get me wrong, I've enjoyed some of the network's shows--the awards mostly, because I got a chance to see icons like James Brown, Al Green, and Chaka Khan perform. The 2005 BET Awards was my favorite, (What woman wouldn't want to see 50 Cent sweat) but seeing the operations behind the scene let me know the network is in need of some major help. TV One, a BET competitor, has realized that yes, Black people do live the good life, as captured on many of the Maryland-based network's lifestyle programs. BET is still in the dark on this, or maybe they didn't get the memo. There is more to us than jokes and b***s***.

I knew something was definitely wrong when I witnessed one of their key publicity employees confuse Derek Luke with Idris Elba. Luke was about to walk the red carpet and she instructed the host to announce him as "Derek Luke from The Wire. Derek Luke has never been on The Wire. Maybe he's seen a few episodes (lol), but he's never been on the show. How can you be in PR for a major network and not know your major artists?? I'm still baffled by that one.

BET is legendary in the sense that it was the first network for us by us. As time wares on I hope that they can put their brains together and get some quality programming on the show. We don't need us to make us look bad. We can rely on VH1 for that.

Tyler Perry Keeps on Earning with "The Family That Preys"

There's one thing Tyler Perry does for sure: He keeps the black actors employed. His seventh film opens today across the nation. The story features two families; a wealthy white one, and a working class black one. Still the matriarchs of these families maintain a special friendship, in spite of the fact that their adult children have not made good judgments. Kathy Bates stars as Charlotte Cartwright, owner of a profitable construction business, and mother to William (played by Cole Hauser)who begins an affair with Andrea (Sanaa Lathan), daughter of Charlotte's friend Alice Pratt (Alfre Woodard). I can't wait to see this film and after I do, I will share my thoughts!!

Other Films Out Today: Righteous Kill starring Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino and ahem Curtis Jackson or for the hip-hoppers, better known as 50 Cent.


Update:
Now I told y'all I was gonna come back with my review of "The Family That Preys". It was hella (yeah hella) good. Tyler is honing his skills in the drama genre and this film does not disappoint. It made me think about my own family and some of the things we have endured. From generations past to present, every family has secrets...Okay, nevermind my family drama. Sanaa Lathan plays a mistress who get big bank from her white lover--and a child to go along with it. Her unsuspecting husband, Chris (Rockmond Dunbar) is a blue collar brutha blinded by with the love of his scandalous wife. Her sister, Pam (Taraji P. Henson) is a hellion who doesn't bite her tongue and protects her mother Abigail (Alice Woodard) in Ride or Die fashion. I love Abigail(Robin Givens) way of being a smart ass with grace (she always manages to pull of the bourgeois roles good) and her killer wardrobe. She puts Sanaa in her place and chin-checks her lover William (Cole Hauser) as well. When the drama unravels honey, it gets real good. I'm not going to give away the goods, take your derriere to the movies and give Tyler his bread. You won't be disappointed--unless you're sleeping with a married man.

L.A. Fashion Week is coming!!

Get ready fashionistas, L.A. fashion week sponsored by Mercedes-Benz starts in 28 days!

The week long celebration featuring the Spring 2009 collections from some of the hottest designers officially begins on Friday, October 10th and ends on Friday, October 17th.

I will keep you posted on the schedule of events and provide a list of designers as I obtain them!

My New Computer is the F%$#@* Bomb!!!

For those of you who write, you know how important it is to have a laptop. I cannot live without my laptop. I like to write at the drop of dime so I have to be mobile! My new Gateway M-6332 is metallic garnet red with 2GB RAM and 160 GB HD and a 15.4" screen. It's wireless/Bluetooth capable so I can hook it up to my Palm Centro if I need an Internet connection. Talk about sexy, this thing is almost hotter than me!

10 Most Overpaid Hollywood Actors

I was wondering when somebody was compile this list. I always said Nicole Kidman was the so overrated. Cameron Diaz is another one who doesn't live up to the hype. I guess it's safe to say Hollywood can make people delusional.

Here's the list along with the gross income for every dollar they are paid. And they have the nerve to pay teachers nothing.

1. Nicole Kidman - $1
2. Jennifer Garner - $3.60
3. Tom Cruise - $4
4. Cameron Diaz - $4
5. Jennifer Lopez - $4.10
6. Jim Carrey - $4.11
7. Nicolas Cabge - $4.16
8. Drew Barrymore - $4.38
9. Will Ferrell - $4.67
10. Cate Blanchett - $4.97

Keeping Secrets: Sarah Palin Proves That Everybody Ain't Got Common Sense

When John McCain announced that he selected Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate for the Vice-President seat on the Republican party ticket, he shocked his cohorts and the rest of the United States. Palin who has become the subject of controversy has had her dirty laundry aired out not only in the news, but the candy-coated pages of celebrity gossip magazines. Palin was featured on the September 15 issues of OK magazine and US Weekly clutching "her" then newborn baby Trig.

Well what's wrong with that? You ask. Nothing--if you live in a place called Denial. The truth about Trig being Palin's baby, and not her now pregnant 17 year-old daughter Bristol's child, has raised questions among people close to the family and her fellow Americans who are eating the gossip up like the last canape and a swakny New York party. Palin claimed to have gone into labor while traveling and took an 8-hour flight back to Alaska to give birth. Smells like b.s. to me. Even more bizarre was the fact that Palin returned to work just three days after giving "birth". Ask classmates of Bristol to explain and they'll tell you she mysteriously absent from school for five months this past spring. Apparently snow jobs run rampant in Alaska.

Palin who is against sex education is also under fire for giggling at an Anchorage radio talk-show host's comments he made about her political rival state senator Lyda Green. Even more laughable than John's McCain's choice for vice-president is the fact that he actually believes people will accept this women to help him run the country when she professes to have not "Known much about the Iraq war," until her eldest son Trig, 19 was about to be sent there. Way to go Sarah, you'll make a great vice-president. Like many of your Republican counterparts, you seem to enjoy a life of lying and denial.
Photo: Sarah and Todd Palin with "son" Trig.

Women Who Cook

My guy friends tell me they are sick of dating women who don't cook. If they do cook, they only make things like hamburger helper and spaghetti. Well guys I apologize on behalf of the women (like myself) who actually do get in the kitchen and burn (not literally). I've been cooking as long as I've been writing (since I was 8 years old). My maternal grandmother baked cakes and pies better than Betty Crocker. She turned her baking into a hustle and was able to be generous to her children and grandchildren.

I don't understand women who don't cook or claim they can't. Cooking is all about creativity and imagination. The first thing I learned to cook was spaghetti, but I moved on from that to make lasagna, grilled and fried fish, omelets, seasoned steak and more. I don't play when it comes to food. Despite my small frame, I can put away some grub.

Cooking is a great stress reliever, and it's good to see people you love enjoying your cuisine. Besides that, I am an excellent hostess and I enjoy entertaining. I keep Bon Appetit and Martha's Everyday Food close by. It's fine to be beautiful but when you're beautiful and can cook, you might just make someone fall in love.

Fall Fashion: Must Haves for Every Wardrobe

As summer winds down and fall sets in, every woman must step her game up to stay on top. Fall brings out the fight in us all, the fight to want to be the most fabulous woman we can be. Every August I go through my closet to prepare for the season. I get rid of summer clothes (unless it's still hot) that I'm not going to wear. I put all of my "business" clothes on one side of the closet, and I make sure my shoes are clean, polished, and in working order. A damaged heel can be the death of a debutante! There is a store for everyone and every budget. Take Gap, Inc.'s 3 stores: Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic. While I am partial to BR, I also buy clothes from Old Navy. Gap has disappointed me its last few seasons, but Patrick Robinson's debut line with the legendary American label is sure to make we want to take a peek. I've already found a dress I like from their new European collection that would look fabulous on my size 2 frame. So whether you're using your debit card, cold card, or platinum card, it's time to go shopping.

Here's what to buy:
-a black suit
-a sheath dress
-a fabulous silk scarf (try satin if you're not partial to silk)
-2 to 3 button down shirts
-a cardigan sweater
-2 pairs of slacks
-a knee length skirt
-cowl neck or turtleneck sweaters
-a sturdy handbag, preferably leather
-a pair of black pumps
-3 tees in varying colors
-a trench coat or pea coat
-a pretty dress for cocktail hour

Once you have these staples in your closet, you can build the rest of your wardrobe around them and plan your looks accordingly.

Stores I recommend:
Ann Taylor
BCBG
GAP
Banana Republic
Old Navy
Ann Taylor Loft
The Limited
Express
NY & Co
Macy's

When buying clothes, buy clothes that fit, or have a little room for growth. if you know you are a size 10, please don't try to squeeze into an eight. Sucking everything in will not help your look. Tight-fitting clothes in the work arena are not a good look. Be careful with prints, they will swallow you whole or add pounds onto your shape. If you're not sure what to do, contact a stylist, they are paid to make you look good.

That's all for now, happy shopping.

Q's Annual Labor Day Bash...Yes I Was There

I spent my Labor Day weekend at a friend from college's party. The swanky soiree in Hancock Park had young black folks--and a few others raising the roof at my friend's estate. We sipped on tangy Mojitos, Cosmos, and other concoctions while listening to a live performance from Loose Ends. I got a change to see old and new faces from my alma mater and enjoyed myself to no end. Actor Sean Blakemore (Motives) and I chatted briefly, while Claudia Jordan and friends chatted it up with Bebe clothes and weaves in tow. Not trying to clown, I just call it like I see it. As usual there were more women than men. Not surprising...But it made me ask in my best Queen Latifah in Living Single voice: "Where Are the Men?"
Photo: Me and my fabulous friends.