What to expect from Because I Said So in 2009

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, December 31, 2008

I usually operate in an organized chaotic state which is evident in my restless posting style. For 2009, I am, going to pick a topic and stay with that topic for the duration of the month, peppered with mini loc updates. A quick preview January will focus on all things pertaining to Africa. From travel destinations, to conflict, to little know success stories from the Dark Continent. February will focus on relationships among Black women and men. Beginning from our childhood interactions, through the college years, and ultimately what makes us choose our mates. So stay tuned or tell a friend that things are changing at Because I Said So. A quick hint, check the Banner January 1st and every month thereafter to find out what the topic of the month will be.

 

Happy New Year!

  • Posted by Kristin

The New Year is a time for new declarations and pledges. I, like everyone else, have made them and broke them. So this year I am trying something different. I compiled a list that should help other people know how to approach me in 2009.

1. If I have gone all day without eating don't even think of engaging me in conversation. You will know I am hungry because I will have
Tyrone Biggum lips, induced by the lack of food ingestion not crack consumption.

2. If you set a time or if you are hosting an event then please, at least be on time because, if you are late trust me the 'tude will be stank. I am usually 15 to 30 minutes early for everything, a nasty habit I picked up from my mom that I have yet to break.

3. There is such a thing as a dumb question. If I give you the head cocked to the side and one eyebrow raised you will know that you just asked it.

These are your guidelines for 2009 please, govern yourself accordingly. You guys have a safe and wonderful start to the New Year. I wish you all the best in the coming year.

 

Bernard Madoff and his Texas Connection

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Sunday, December 28, 2008

Bernard Madoff was arrested for "allegedly running a $50 billion "Ponzi scheme" in what may rank among the biggest fraud cases ever." The fallout of Bernard Madoff's scheme almost crippled The Innocence Project of Texas. The Innocence Project has freed more than 20 individuals in 2008 through DNA evidence from wrongful convictions. Their investment with Bernard Madoff almost cost them $400,000 in operating money, but the company was informed that they would be able to keep the money they had received to date. The Project believes they have enough money to complete all DNA testing underway so far however, if funds are to fall short they will seek help through the private sector. If you would like to learn more about the Innocence Project of Texas or how you can donate please visit here.

 

Merry Christmas!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, December 23, 2008

 

Let Colorism Die!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Saturday, December 20, 2008


Colorism within ethnic communities is nothing new. Within the Black community colorism was a way during slavery to separate, divide and confuse a race of people.

The prevalence of colorism within ethnic communities is still rampant. Months ago Yung Berg made the statement that he didn't like "dark butts" and that his women must pass the pool test. Fast forward a few months and there is R&B artist Ne-yo who tells a reporter that "all the prettiest kids are light skin". I sat there is stunned silence with my mouth ajar as I watched the clip, inwardly recoiling at the blatant ignorance and unaware self-loathing that such a statement would prompt someone to say.

When we ask other people to view us for whom we are on the inside should we not be able to ask the same of ourselves? We are no longer physically enslaved yet we find ourselves a slave to an old color caste system.

I believed we had made so much progress outside of the 80's when people the complexion of Debarge and Apollonia were all the rage. Yet, here we are again bombarded with psychological images that continue to define the standard of Black beauty under the shallow veneer of skin complexion.

I often wonder of the educational and social cognizance of artist like Yung Berg and Ne-yo when they make such absurd statements. At the end of the day light skin or dark skin you can still be called a nigger.



Image courtsey of Abagond

 

The Beauty of Natural Hair

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, December 15, 2008

Just thought I would share some of my favorite youtube videos on locks and natural hair. I would also like to say that I received two compliments today on my locs YEAH! The are coming along and I will do another post when I get them retwisted in January. I am hoping to stretch my retwist to 5 to 6 weeks so that I will have a healthy hairline. I would rather deal with fuzzies than have to combine a bunch of locs down the road. Speaking of combining there are three in the front that I want to make larger so when I go back to my loctician I will have her do that so I can avoid the two headed dragons.


The first video is inspirational, I look at this video often so that I can stay focused on my goal. The second video features Goapele's music, an artist that does not get enough play.




 

Wow! I bet Bush can not wait until January

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Sunday, December 14, 2008



I am no Bush fan but I am very grateful that this was only a shoe. The Secret Service needs their asses kicked for this. Their reactions were too damn slow for me they should have had Bush on the ground after the first shoe.

Big ups to the journalist (if he was a journalist) in the tan blazer and orange shirt who was able to stiff arm the shoe terrorist.

I would also like to say thank you President Bush for holding your own afterwards. I know it was just a shoe but hell I am still an American and I am proud that you pushed forward and showed no fear and ended your speech with great fortitude.

 

Is the Military doing enough?

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, December 10, 2008


During my grandfathers and uncles tour of duty I believe the ship rides back home helped to alleviate some of their stress. The month long voyages home helped to slowly reintroduce them back into a society were they are not constantly in a fight or flight mode. Today’s military personnel are in war zone one minute then the next on a flight route back to the States all within 24hours.


I have genuine concern for the mental health of all actively serving military personnel. I am not quite sure how the military approaches mental health to my understanding it is on a volunteer basis. (If anyone knows differently please let me know). I personally believe that they need at least 3 months of mental health counseling after serving in an active war zone. My brother has been on leave for 18 days his wife just arrived last night and I believe they are both suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We are urging them both to seek the aid of mental health services. In the meantime as the old folks say we can only keep them lifted up before God.






 

Illinois Governor Taken into Custody: What does this mean for Obama

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, December 9, 2008


According to the statement, Blagojevich is alleged to have discussed obtaining:


a substantial salary for himself at either a non-profit foundation or an organization affiliated with labor unions;


a spot for his wife on paid corporate boards, where he speculated she might garner as much as $150,000 a year;


promises of campaign funds -- including cash up front;


a Cabinet post or ambassadorship for himself.


What was he thinking?!!!

 

Will Obama Attend the People's Ball

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, December 8, 2008



Stafford Foundation Announces 'People's Inaugural Project' at Washington's Historic JW Marriott

Thanks to the foundation's $1 million investment, participants will attend the events and stay at the JW Marriott free of charge. A third of the tickets for all the Stafford Foundation events will be distributed to hundreds of marginalized Americans who have demonstrated a positive example by embodying hope and facilitating change in their communities. The Marriott will serve as the central point to welcome the group of diverse people who come to celebrate America's new president.


I saw this story on the news and my eyes actually got misty.

 

Loc Update One month

  • Posted by Kristin

Ok Ash, this post is just for you. These pics are about 2 weeks old I intended to post them weeks ago but I'm always on the late show. After I went back to my lociticain for my re-tightening I had BUDS. For those not familiar with loc lingo buds are the beginning formation of your locs it means the hair is starting to tangle and loc. I think for a lot of people buds take up to 3 or more months to form however, Regina told me I had that good Negro hair (nappy as hell,4b) so my hair would take no time at all to loc.

When I first became natural I was in such a hurry to get to a nice size fro' that I did not fully enjoy the different stages of my hair during that period. I have decided to enjoy every stage even the extremely unattractive and fuzzy stage. I never expected to feel as if my loc journey would be some kind of spiritual journey as it is for so many others. However, I can tell you I am far more confident and excepting of who I am so through this process. I think it is the combination of approaching 30 and not being overly concerned with other peoples definition of beauty.

The first two pics were after my first complete month, my loctician started my locs off with double strand twist. At the close of the month I had a lot of lose hair that needed to be gathered back into the base.








These last three pics were after the re-tightening she used the latching method. The latching method gives me more freedom to play with styles because I don't have to worry about them coming apart like the twist.





 

A Tribute to Lauryn Hill

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, December 2, 2008

I miss Lauryn like crazy. I have been listening to my MisEducation CD and I realize that no one could come close to touching her, when she was on. Lauryn come back puuuullllleeezzee! I have included my favorite song Ex-Factor: I can not listen to this song without getting weepy. Not to mention she has the best locs ever!

Turn the Lights Down Low



The Final Hour



Ex Factor

 

World AIDS Day

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, December 1, 2008

JPS Health Network recognizes World AIDS Day

BY ELIZABETH BASSETT
December 01, 2008


JPS Health Network will be hosting a memorial service on Dec. 1 to recognize World AIDS Day.

The hour-long service, which will start at 10:30 a.m., will be in the third-floor auditoriums of the John Peter Smith Hospital. Those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS will be remembered, and a list of names of those who died this year will be read. It’s estimated that about 100,000 within Tarrant County have HIV, which causes AIDS, and up to one-third of the infected may not know they have the disease. For more information on the event, contact Nicci Willey at 817-927-1025.



The following are events in Dallas in Observance of World AIDS Day
DALLAS


The North Texas HIV Service Providers Council will host its 2008 World AIDS Day event Friday, Dec. 5 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, 2201 Stemmons Fwy. An information fair and AIDS Memorial Quilt viewing will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A luncheon will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jeanne White-Ginder, mother of Ryan White, will be the keynote speaker. Reservations are required. Call 214-521-5191 to make a reservation.

The DFW Stomp Out Syphilis Campaign is hosting a World AIDS Day balloon launch and educational presentation at noon on Monday, Dec. 1 at the MLK Family Clinic at 2922-B MLK Blvd. Keynote speakers for the event are Barbara S. Cambridge, Ph.D., professor at UT-Southwestern Medical School, and Fernie Sanchez, M.A., of AIDS Arms, Inc. For more information, contact Diedre Spears, or call her at 214-528-0144.

AIDS Interfaith Network/Manos Unidas , in conjunction with Dallas County Health and Human Services, will provide HIV testing at the Mexican Consulate, 8855 N. Stemmons Fwy., on Monday, Dec. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact Edgar Carmona at 214-943-4444.

For additional post regarding HIV/AIDS you can read here and here.

 

Plaxico Burress Shoots Himself in the Leg!?

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Sunday, November 30, 2008



Why are you going to a club where you feel the need to carry a gun? Stay your azz at home and bring the party to you. It ain't that serious that I would have to put my life and future in jeopardy for a night on the town.

What an idiot

 

My political Compass

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, November 24, 2008

My Political Compass

Economic Left/Right: -5.50
Social Libertarian/Authoritarian: -1.03



You can find your political compass here h/t to Siddity

 

Barack names Social Secretary

  • Posted by Kristin


Desiree Rogers is the White House Social Secretary. She is 49 years of age with a Harvard MBA and will be the first African American to hold the post.

 

The changing image of Black Women

  • Posted by Kristin

I received this article by Erin Aubry Kaplan from Shawn over at
Dallas South.

I read it and loved it. In quick summary the article is about Michelle’s Donk!
The article goes on to say that a bountiful posterior has been “both vilified and fetishized as the most singular of all black female features”. I always felt the election of Barack would pale in comparison to the elevation of his wife to First Lady. I love the fact that Michelle has a dark complexion that she has a figure that has long been considered less than aesthetically pleasing according to Hollywood or mainstream magazines.



It is my greatest hope that with Michelle as the First Lady that Black women will be able to take confidence and pride in knowing a woman that finally looks like one of us will set the stage for how the world views Black women.

Black women have had few constant role models in the media. Mental imagery is exceptionally compelling. When the constant image is objectification and overt sexuality it becomes harder for younger impressionable girls to delineated reality from make believe.



The constant image that young Black women are bombarded with are the Melissa Ford’s, Buffy the body, etc… For some that have no male figures in their life these women are seen as powerful in control of their sexuality (when they are not, regardless of what they say). Even Jet magazines still has their beauty of the week segment; seriously the only beauties they can find are wrapped in string bikinis. Can women not be beautiful unless they are half naked? I don’t understand why JET can not showcase a beautiful woman that is fully clothed with an actual job besides student or model as their description.

 

I’m still a Christian?!

  • Posted by Kristin

I guess I consider myself either a Christin in training or either a searching Christian.

I feel I have a personal relationship with God. I talk to him constantly throughout the day when I’m angry, happy or even feeling lost. What I am not to sure about is the credence that in order to be saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost Christian you must attend church.

I am far from the ideal Christian but I truly feel that I am neither one of those shucking and jiving. I have faults in which I constantly ask the Lord for his help with changing. There are times when I know I past the test he sets before me and others when I fail miserably.

My husband and I pray almost every night together (with the exception when we go to bed at separate times). Throughout the day we give God thanks for all that we have. We are truly blessed. I believe we have a blessed marriage relatively little drama; both of our families love each other. We don’t suffer from the dreaded in-law disease. We live a comfortable financially stable life.

As a scientist I believe in the big bang theory I believe in evolution (to an extent) however, I believe those were part of a larger higher power.

I do find myself wondering how the Lord came to be; but I do not doubt his existence. There have been times when I find it hard to continue to believe but even in those times I find myself talking to the God.

Can I be a Christian that does not attend church, or are the two inseparable?

 

I've been tagged!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, November 20, 2008


I have been tagged by Ash author of Go Bytch and because I ignored her last tag I feel obligated to participate in this one. Boo hooo

Ok I am to name 7 random/weird factoids about myself.


1. Like all good CLS’s I talk out loud to myself when working though a problem. I am no longer even embarrassed when someone gives me the side eye

2. I have no arches

3. When something is extremely funny I snort loudly and often

4. I enjoy teaching people but I don’t want to be a teacher in the conventional sense of the word

5. I have a tiny pinpoint hole in the center of my forehead (most people don’t even notice it). I forget the medical term for it but I remember the plastic surgeon telling me it would cost 450 bucks to get rid of it. Needless to say I am still walking around with it.

6. I love being outdoors!

7. I’m a big titty baby I cry over just about any sob story.

 

Completely Random: Favorite phrases

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, November 19, 2008

The following are a couple of phrases that I not only use but laugh at heartily when I hear other people say.

1. Its the end of days (probably my all time fav)

2. That's all you!

3. Showing your azz

4.Put sumthin with sumthin to get sumthin (my hubby's saying)

5. B.F.E

6. You crazy as all get out

7. Two tears in a bucket

8. Lawd have mercy.

9. Quit acking brand new

Please feel free to attach your own.

 

Guest post Courtesy of Undercover Black Man

  • Posted by Kristin

I thought this was an excellent reminder that we cannot become so engrossed in ourselves that we forget about the contributions of others.




If you think the story of black people in America has too many forgotten chapters, let’s talk about the Indians. (November, after all, is American Indian Heritage Month.)

Did you know that the game of American football, as it is now played, owes a debt to Indians? Sportswriter Sally Jenkins explained this in her 2007 book “The Real All Americans.”

I was already vaguely aware of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, which was created by the U.S. government to “civilize” the conquered Indians. But I didn’t know that the “Carlisle Indians” were a collegiate football powerhouse in the early 20th century, competing against teams such as Harvard and Yale.

The Carlisle Indians couldn’t match the white teams for physical size. So instead of the common style of play – grinding trench warfare – Carlisle focused on speed, forward passing and offensive trickery.

This strategy was developed by Carlisle’s most successful coach, a white man known as“Pop” Warner.


Sally Jenkins focuses on a 1912 game between Carlisle and the U.S. Army team at West Point. Army’s star offensive player was halfback Dwight D. Eisenhower... a future president of the United States.

Carlisle’s star was one of the greatest athletes of all time, Jim Thorpe,who played running back, defensive back, kicker and punter.

The Carlisle Indians won.

The racial dimension of this game against Army is fascinating.Click hereto hear a minute-long excerpt from the audiobook version of “The Real All Americans.”

 

Get over it, and learn to deal!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, November 18, 2008

A post racial society; well maybe notsomuch


"I can't say that every white person in Snellville is evil and anti-Obama and willing to desecrate my property because one or two idiots did it," said Millner, who is black. "But it definitely makes you look a little different at the people who you live with, and makes you wonder what they're capable of and what they're really thinking."

Potok, who is white, said he believes there is "a large subset of white people in this country who feel that they are losing everything they know, that the country their forefathers built has somehow been stolen from them."

 

Thanking Slave-masters; What next?

  • Posted by Kristin



Soulja boy is young, rich, and famous and more importantly without any real significant parental influence; made obvious by his slave master comments:


He said, “Oh wait! Hold up! Shout out to the slave masters! Without them we’d still be in Africa.”
“We wouldn’t be here,” he continued, to get this ice and tattoos.”


My heart actually bleeds for Soulja Boy. He has such a huge following, hell I even spent an afternoon trying to learn how to do the Soulja Boy. The problem with Soulja boy and the majority of rappers they are not doing anything significant with their celebrity. I truly believe his slave master's comment was in jest howbeit a poor one. It is just another example of how diluted hip hop culture has become.

The problem I see with the rap game it is no longer relevant Kanye is doing something new (which I like) but who else is changing the game. I have become so bored with hip hop that I have switched to listening to alternative rock for my afternoon commute home.

On a side note: Does anyone else miss Kelis? Rihanna is like a new reincarnated Kelis. There is no doubting her style but every time I see Rihanna I cannot help but think of Kelis. Come back Kelis.

 

Yum!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, November 11, 2008

I am not the cook in the family, I dislike the mess cooking makes. If anyone ever comes up with disposalble pots and pans then holla at your girl. As it is if it can't fit in one pan or one cassrole dish then count me out. I made chicken chowder last night and placed it in bread bowl. I SOOOO suprised my husband, he LOVED IT! So I don't do the Wedensday Wine Down (and yes I know today is not wedensday) anywhere near as good as Ash, I think I held my own last night.

 

Tavis Smiley: Financial Empowerment Part II

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, November 10, 2008



During the Nationwide Tour with Tavis Smiley I was granted personal time with Tavis Smiley and Jasmine Green of Nationwide.

Tavis’s response to new media at times was flattering and on the other end pointed out the problems with the blogosphere.

New media is phenomenal and I am using it myself I like it because it is a way to get information out instantly, it is a way to talk to a burgeoning group of people who are getting connected. The Obama campaign used the internet remarkably well; in ways I could never imagine ….

I like the new media I like the blogosphere but what I don’t like is there is no fact checking. Everyone has an opinion and because you have a blog you can put your opinion out there. What happens in the world we live in too much of what is opinion ends up taken as fact and that is not the best thing.

We also have to make sure that we are earnest and responsible.


Tavis's response to how to obtain traditional wealth was good common practical sense that too few follow:


Young people have to develop a money philosophy at a young age that is lasting. You cannot spend money you don’t have, stop buying stuff you don’t need to impress folk you don’t like.



Jasmine Green the Vice President Chief Customer Advocate at Nationwide


Jasmine Green response to the hardest aspect of getting minorities to seek financial stability was tempered by the overwhelming financial crunch people are facing. She stated:

Their own personal financial issues with people being out of work they have issues of not being able to afford home or car insurance. One thing I want to stress is it is crucial and vital to get insurance because the last thing you want to do is have a terrible event happen and you are not insured. We as a community may not have the annuities but we need to have the basic coverage. The basics will help us to avoid a crisis.


At the conclusion of the seminar Nationwide provided great breakout sessions to help people learn a starting point comfortable for their current fininical circumstances. The entire event was free in Dallas, Texas provided by Nationwide. Special thanks to Bob Cunningham Public Relations Manager with Nation wide and to Shawn Williams of Dallas South for the name drop.

 

Tavis Smiley: Financial Empowerment Part I

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Sunday, November 9, 2008


Tavis Smiley came to Dallas this weekend for the conclusion of a five city tour speaking Financial Empowerment to minorities. This talk was fresh off the heels of Barack Obama’s historic run and subsequent win of the Presidency.
Tavis’s talk was speckled with humor and sobriety. Tavis spoke of his friendship with Obama and Obama’s almost pensive acceptance speech on November 4th. He mentioned that the true comparison should not be Obama and Kennedy but Obama and Reagan; because of the overwhelming financial crisis both President’s inherited.


Tavis espoused research that stated this generation of Black Americans would be the first generation that would not do as well as the preceding generation. A depressing, frightening and sober financial prediction for those individuals coming into their adulthood within the next couple of years.

How did this generation arrive in this situation? College students are inundated with credit cards before many of them have settled into their dorm rooms. Parents do not leave any substantial financial legacy for their children. Often children are placed in the difficult position of paying off debts that are not their own. There can be little wonder how this generation of young and often gifted Black Americans find themselves in such distressing financial straits.

At the conclusion of Tavis’s speech I found myself wondering and questioning will the black community respond past November 4th ,will we grab hold of our future , move out of our own way, secure our future through sound investments by leaving a financial legacy, or by refusing to let our skin color define what we cannot accomplish.

 

Ron Clark Academy; Interview with CNN

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, November 6, 2008

Ron Clark Academy interveiws with CNN brings me to tears. If that young man gets it and understands I see a bright bright future for the upcoming youth of America.

Obama's election truly is a movement. I hope people remain involved this is how you change the world.

 

YEAH ME! Baby locs

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, November 5, 2008




I have started the loc process and I am very excited. Almost more excited than when I made the decision to go natural 2 years ago. During that time I learned a lot about myself and I am looking forward to learning what I can from my lock journey. Right now my head is starting to look a mess in about another week in a half I have no doubt that it will be a hot mess. However, I am ready to embrace these hurdles and preserve. My locktician (Regina) says with the majority of my hair texture that it should not take long for my hair to lock, but she also warned that I am going to have a lot of fuzziness because my hair is also so soft. So anyway here are two pics one from the first week and one now, I plan on visiting Regina for a re-twist the last week in November.



I know everybody’s locs are different and are a direct representation of who they are and I can not wait to see what story my locs will say about me. I would also like to say that my husband is COMPLETELY supportive of this process. We have watched countless YouTube videos; he has even browsed through some of the books that I bought. And I am sooooo happy that I have his support. Because I have no doubt that I am going to need it in the next 2-4 months.


Ya’ll wish me well on my journey.

Oh and I have slightly over a hundred baby locs on my head, I think when I go back I will have her combine 4 of them.

 

YES!

  • Posted by Kristin

 

Perseverance

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, November 4, 2008


I have been on a media blackout since last week and was very sadden to find out this morning that Barack Obama’s grandmother had passed away yesterday. I do not even want to imagine my life with out my grandmother.

Talk among the hypercritical conservative right has already begun regarding Barack’s decision to continue to campaign. However I want to relate a story regarding the death of my husband’s mother.

His mother knew she was dying of complications from Lupus. His mom took a turn for the worse during the finals of my husband’s sophomore year. She refused to let anyone tell him that she was dying. He returned home from school and a day later she passed away.

Her love from my husband was so strong that she did not want anything to affect his concentration during finals. My husband was the first in his family to attend college. This was such a proud event for her that there was absolutely nothing she wanted to stand in his way of achievement. I can only imagine the sacrifice that was for her and my husband’s younger brother; to take the brunt of her pain and suffering unto themselves.

The best thing my husband did in honoring her memory is finishing school, passing his exit exam on the first try (the only person in his class to do so) and going on to make a good life for himself and me. He honored her memory.

Barack can do no less. His grandmother gave support and unconditional love. He owes her to finish strong to Persevere . God Bless and keep the Obama family and the remaining members of his grandmothers family.

 

Completely Random: Married Life Pet Peeves

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, October 30, 2008



6. When brushing your teeth must you spray the mirror with spittle flakes, I know its on your side but I still have to look at it.

5. Not providing full information: Case in point my husband told me almost two weeks ago that his family was having a Halloween party. He did not specify that it was a custom party until LAST NIGHT! I’m still mad about this.

4. I love you Sweeting but stop talking to me when I’m reading.

3. Aaagggghhhhh! Filling both sides of the sinks with dirty dishes to the point where I am unable to wash my hands.

2. Not replacing the toilet roll when it is empty.

1. Most important of all STOP EATING the last of my Walker shortbread COOKIES. You don’t see me eating your Oreo’s or Chocolate chip cookies.

I feel a lot better. Woo saaa, Woo saaa I know Mr. Man doesn’t even bother to read my blog anymore (tear tear) but boy do I feel so much betta. In all fairness I am sure Mr.Man has his own list of pet peeves but it's my blog, so I am entitled to a little bias.

 

ATF disrupts skinhead plot to assassinate Obama

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, October 27, 2008


I generally think of Skinheads and Krazy Klan Kluckers to be ignorant and not so bright; the same goes for this case. However, I now understand why my grandmother refuses to vote for Obama. For her she saw strong civil rights leaders both black and white assassinated and the threat to Obama's life is the very thing that is going to keep her at home this year. No amount of things are different nowadays is going to convince her and more importantly stories like these continue to fuel her doubt in America's willingness to accept a Black man as its leader.

 

Fat Straws

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, October 23, 2008


I usually do my best to stay away from fads. There is something about my identity that actually balks at the idea of conforming.Everyone assumes because I like a wild fro, other natural dos, and tattoos that I must be into mother earth as my spiritual guiding force. Or better yet people assume that I automatically like spoken word which, I don’t give me a well written piece of prose any day.


So much to my surprise I have fallen victim to the Bubble Tea craze that has taken over my co-workers. I am honestly a groupie; I stop by almost everyday on my way home. I am going to try and cut back to twice a week because this Bubble Tea compulsion is getting out of hand. However, I do highly recommend the Jasmine tea with Bubbles.

 

An Economic Divide

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, October 22, 2008

A slow divide is occurring within the black community. A divide that is doing what slavery, years of Jim Crow and discrimination could never accomplish. A divide that is driven by economics and classism. Economics has become more powerful than Massa’s whip; economics has become more treacherous than for white only signs. Economics are creating a breach threatening the long built solidarity of the Black community.

More black people are moving to the suburbs, few are electing to live in economically challenged areas.The Black community has become assailed with a new generation of middle class, a class at times more concerned with keeping up with the Joneses than helping the Williams. We now have a middle class that consistently distances themselves from people not of their class or social standing.


How does a community survive without the aid of those that do well? Many economically challenged areas are so depleted because the dollar leaves the community quicker than it is brought in. In the time of Black Wall Streetthe dollar would circulate 36 to 100 times before it left the community.


Growing up in a relatively rudimentary town made me want to leave and never return. I wanted to break free and never have to look back. There is so much more to life than the small corner in which some find themselves confined to. We have to regain our trust in one another and get back to helping each other instead of abandoning one another for the quickest exit sign.

For another perspective visit Siditty's Race and Culture in America post

 

I Voted Today!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, October 21, 2008


This is the third presidential election that I have been of age to vote. I cast my vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Yesterday I was feeling a bit down and perturbed by a comment and literally was so distracted that I almost drove my car through the garage into our second bathroom. Whew, talk about having to get your head straight.

So what do I do? I called my trusty full of wisdom Aunt Wesee (short for Louise), we had a good talk. She reminded me that there are going to be people today, tomorrow, and forever that will always negate your opinion because it does not align with theirs. She also clearly and succinctly reminded me that when you do agree with “them” they then automatically elevate you to “intellectual negro” status. Well, I think we have all seen how the“intellectual negro” is treated and what is thought of the“intellectual negro” when he no longer conforms to the ideals of the dominating culture.

All of the negativity aside today was a great day. I voted for a man I believe can lead this country into a new direction. A direction that will keep our country us as a dominant force. I believe Barack will refocus our energy and troops to where they are critically needed. With Michelle Obama as First Lady and Jill Biden I think public education will really see a change, new pilot programs will be tested for their viability and restructure of “No Child left behind” will actually begin to occur.

Obama and Biden represent a change. A change that frightens and threatens what the dominating culture perceives as their sole right. I enjoy and believe in the Democratic Party’s ideals. I feel very strongly that social programs are an aid and asset when monitored and policed properly. Barack Obama is a man apart neither Black nor White yet Black people like I identity strongly with him. His skin color is but icing that I plan to gleefully lick off of all ten of my fingers on Nov. 4.

For another insight on voting for Barack please visit: Kellybelle
Siditty
Dallas SouthBlack sapience

 

Tutankhamun at the DMA

  • Posted by Kristin


Today Mr. Man turned 32 so we went to the museum to see the Tutankhamun exhibit. The DMA did a great job with the set up. They presented a timeline of artifacts right before the boy King ascended to the throne; Culminating in the discovery of his tomb and the subsequent searches for answers to his death. The lighting in some of the rooms I think was a little to dark even if spot lights were aimed at the artifacts for dramatic effect.

I felt the tiny figurines were by far more intriguing because of the level of detail the artisan was able to achieve with the rudimentary tools of the age. The wooden structures exhibited wonderful stability. The craftsmanship of all the artifacts on display truly illustrates the religion of the times: when inanimate objects were meant to follow the deceased into the next world.

We live in a time were planned and perceived obsolescence is built into the use of every product we purchase from expiration dates on food to the latest fashion trends. The artistry and fine detail placed into every piece is evident of a time long ago were beauty and utility functioned as one.

 

Wake up Everybody 2008!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, October 20, 2008

H/T Black4Barack

 

To Loc or Not to Loc?

  • Posted by Kristin

I have been wearing double strand twists for the last three weeks in preparation for what I would look like in locs. I don't have particularly thick hair so I don't think super tiny sisterlocks would be the best choice for me and I know I won't be able to attain the width of Lauyrn Hill’s loc’s. So, right now I love the freedom of having loose natural hair having the ability to switch my hair up from a fro to funky fro-hawks. I think I am suffering from loc envy. Either way it goes I am sure I am going to lock my hair but, should I do it now or wait a while. Below are some loc styles that I am interested in trying, if anyone has in ideas or tips or suggestions please don’t hesitate to leave some information.




 

Colin Powell for Obama

  • Posted by Kristin




I knew Colin Powell was going to endorse Barack Obama especially after McCain’s pick of Sarah Palin. The President in this country and countries around the world are faced with the possibility that they may not be able to complete their term in office. Whether, that is from health concerns or to a real threat of assassination a Presidents full term in office is not guaranteed. Sarah Palin is not (and nowhere in the foreseeable future) ready to assume the Presidency. McCain, in what was his first decision as Presidential candidate did not place country first in his selection of Palin.

Colin Powell, in his endorsement of Obama said something that I have often said myself: why would it matter if Obama was Muslim? I have always like Colin Powell; his affiliation with the GOP did not alter my opinion of the man for one reason alone. That reason being that anyone could tell that Colin Powell was his own man and not a puppet like Michael Steele. Colin Powell opted to break with the Bush Administration because as a military man and a man of integrity, he was not willing to let his stature as a high ranking respectful figure become part of ruse that would place Americans at risk.

How many people do you think are going to say Powell’s decision was based on a shared skin color? It has already begun Pat Buchanan and Rush Limbaugh are leading the charge let us see how many more names we add. Because as Black people we are unable to vote for Obama for any other reason than because we share a skin color.

 

Completely Random: Mascara

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, October 14, 2008




This starts a new series or post titled Completely Random. So I thought I would kick it off with one of my fav’s mascara. I love mascara! I at times will suffer from an almost Tammy Faye obsession regarding mascara.


I rarely come to work in full whore face (FWF) but there is the occasional day that a little extra pick me up is needed. Which comes readily in the form of a tube of mascara and black (yes I said black) eyeliner. My coworker and confident knows I’m super cheap about some things so she gave me a tube of Christina Dior mascara (I think it’s like 25 dollars a tube). I am often of the mind you can always find something just as good for cheaper but, the Dior mascara actually has a really good brush worth the 25 dollar price tag.

So whether, I opt for FWF or causal wear, mascara is a must foundation and the rest I can get away with out wearing. However, mascara is like Binaca, always in the purse. The manufactures should really make keychain attachable mini size mascara.

 

3 the hard way (A personal story)

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, October 9, 2008


Barack and Michelle Obama, and Joe (married to Jill) Biden are 3 the hard way. Each of these individuals has personal tragedies and triumphs that a vast amount of Americans can identify with. Barack and Michelle’s stories we have heard often along the campaign trail for the past eighteen months and they are stories of perseverance and stamina. If you are unfamiliar with the Obama’s story you can read here and here .

Another story that you may not know as well is that of Joe Biden . Where Barack Obama is cool and measured the type of man who is the lighthouse in a stormy sea. Joe Biden can be viewed as fiery willing and able to give a dissenting opinion. Joe Biden after the death of his first wife (Neilia Hunter) and daughter showed a grit and determination a steady resolve to continue to serve his country. Joe was able to do all of this while keeping his family first and ensuring his sons were raised in a well balanced home. For five years Joe was a single father working in Washington until he met Jill. Jill is a force of her own and would be a great national asset with two Master’s degree and a PhD. in Education. Jill is almost more qualified than a certain Vice-Presidential candidate the only thing she is lacking is that she can’t see Russia from her home.

This is how my story fits with my chosen candidate and his running mate. Raised by a single mother, with the help of wonderful grandparents, I lost my grandfather during a pivotal moment in my development. I was able to attend one of the best private schools in Texas, and continued on to grad school. Barack, Michelle, Joe, and I share an American dream; we are the American realization. Barack’s proposed policies, Joe’s unrelenting persona together are focused on repositioning America as a dominate force in the world and removing the mockery that has become the last 8 years. There are three weeks left so get to know these candidates better, to see who really shares your story and in doing so you will see who really will have your back in Washington.

 

THAT ONE!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, October 7, 2008




The last debate I thought it was a draw between Senator's Obama and McCain. This debate all I kept hearing in my head was LL Cool J's song "Mama said knock you out". Obama clearly exhibited a starkly different physical appearance to that of McCain that he could stand toe to toe and even surpass McCain on foreign policy. Obama was cool, calm, collected and very presidential throughout the debate. McCain was flustered at times and attempted to use glib humor. Overall, McCain looked like a walking Geritol ad with an almost troll like demeanor.

The telling point of the night which demonstrated that McCain was becoming unhinged was when he referred to Obama as “THAT ONE”. “That one”, WTF! “That one” as if Obama was some kind of foreign alien being that was not human. McCain’s use of the word “that one” exemplifies his disdain for Obama as a fellow man and equal. It is often said that in times of stress and angry we show our true selves. McCain you have showed your ass, every time you have to share a stage with Obama you are unable to hide your vitriol.

You knocked your own fool ass out with “that one”, your caught a pass and ran it back to the opposing teams end zone. Obama is playing with you, he’s in your mind, he is a pulling a rope-a-dope on you, waiting until you have exhausted your 72 year old behind then he is going to come at you with the one hitter quitter. Get ready folks the match is in round 8 and I’m predicting a KO on Nov. 4.


Obama get that Dirt Off Ya Shoulders

 

Hooray for Toombas; Finally the perfect Jeans

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, October 6, 2008





For many of us with a lil boot, junk, onion, ba-dunk-a-donk it is increasingly difficult to find jeans. If you have the classic curvy shape which resembles the Baby Got Back song then TOOMBAS are the jeans for you. The creator and CEO of the company happens to be a friend but that is not the reason I am promoting her product. She has put in countless hours of meticulously measuring and has developed a TOOMBAS sizing chart meant to help aid in choosing the correct jeans for your figure. So for my regular readers Phelps excluded (unless there is something you are not sharing ;-)) you should give these jeans a try.

The No-Gap jeans are the BEST! If there is one thing I hate the most about jeans are finding a pair that actually fit great everywhere except when it comes time to sit down. I don’t particularly like having all my goodies displayed. The No-Gap jeans are exactly that No-gap you can wear a belt as an accessory instead of a necessity. The jeans are designed with patterns and washes that you can find in any department store. The dark blue denim are instant favorites, because they are made with just the right amount of stretch. I am so very proud of her for stepping out and deciding to follow her dream. If you have difficulty or are inclined to spend an entire day in search of the perfect jeans then give Toombas a try.

BTW Toombas is having a sale right now!

 

What are your thoughts about the VP debate?

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Friday, October 3, 2008

 

How sweet do you like your tea?

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Thursday, October 2, 2008


As southerners, most of us like our tea sweeeetttt. However, most of us do not like it sweet to the taste of an extra $100 + billion. The Bailout or Rescue plan (or if you are Senator McCain) that the House Republicans struck down on Monday cost the economy $1 trillion (that’s a lot zeros folks). The tentative plan that the Senate approved late last night cost tax payers an extra $100 billion dollars on top of the supposedly much needed $700 billion. Both Presidential hopefuls voted yes for the Bailout/Rescue Bill, both decided to play Russian Roulette with our money, in hopes of heading off impending doom. A doom that I am not entirely convinced was imminent.

Quite possibly my age is coloring my view. If I was close to retirement age, I might be screaming TO pass the bill already so my 401K/403b would stabilize. As it is now, I DON’T plan on opening my quarterly statement. I have enough years left to work that whatever I've lost I should be able to recoup by the time I hit retirement age.

The revised Bailout/Rescue bill is intended to aid Main street as well as Wall street, but I don’t really see it happening. I did not see an amendment for mortgage moratoriums that would aid homeowners in keeping their homes by lowering their interest rates/payments in order to keep them out of foreclosure.

I’m not one to shy away from democratic socialism, As I see that as the natural progression of any developed nation. But I find it disturbing that so many Bills are floating as amendments and have absolutely nothing to do with the original premise of the Bailout/Rescue plan. Do you know what’s in your tea? Here are just a few of the sweeteners that were added to the Bailout/Rescue plan:

Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2008


Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008

Prohibits a group health plan from requesting or requiring an individual or family member of an individual from undergoing a genetic test. Provides that such prohibition does not: (1) limit the authority of a health care professional to request an individual to undergo a genetic test; or (2) preclude a group health plan from obtaining or using the results of a genetic test in making a determination regarding payment. Requires the plan to request only the minimum amount of information necessary to accomplish the intended purpose.

Prohibiting Employment Discrimination on the Basis of Genetic information

Miscellaneous Provisions - (Sec. 301) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to lower the percentage of a borrower's student loan payment made under the Federal Family Education Loan program subsequent to default that a guaranty agency may retain for deposit in its operating fund if the Secretary of Education has already reimbursed it for such default.

Please visit the following website for your own edification.

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:HR01424:@@@L&summ2=m&


Update
And the sweet of all sweetsCourtesy of From the Left



• Manufacturers of kids’ wooden arrows get $6 million

• Puerto Rican and Virgin Islands rum producers get $192 million

• An undisclosed amount for Wool research

• Auto racing tracks (think: NASCAR Nation) get $128 million

• Corporations operating in American Samoa will receive $33 million

• Small-to- medium budget film and television productions get $10 million

• Relief for litigants in the Exxon Valdez oil spil


 

America has a problem.

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, October 1, 2008





Yesterday I watched the latest installment of Katie Couric’s interview with Sarah Palin and I had to retract my previous view of Mrs. Palin. A view in which, I had categorized her in the lower educational tier but I had to upgrade her to just plan ole mediocre. Sarah Palin’s mediocrity is what endears her to so many Americans, she is the emerging face of America, the face of mediocrity, a face that does not represent the need to “better” ones self.

Sarah Palin proves to Americans that you can be an average Joe or Jane and reach the Governor’s Mansion and even dare to reach for the highest office in the land. Sarah Palin typifies the problem Americans face in an increasingly globalized world: the sentiment that it is alright to be anti- intelligent. It is a hard pill to swallow but I get it. I thought being dumb or pretending to be less than smart was strictly a black culture phenomenon. The rise of Palin in the Republican Party has quickly disavowed me of that notion. America as a whole has an anti-intelligence problem.

Before I was of age to attend school, my mother was teaching my brothers and I our alphabet, the sounds of vowels, colors, and numbers. There was always an opportunity to learn. She was preparing us to face a world that would not accept anything less than an above average (at times I would find that above average was not even enough) black person living in America. When it came time for college I had to take the SAT twice not because I did not get the average score that was excepted by my college of choice (1200) but because my mother thought I could do better (and she was right).


For those of us that decided to seek knowledge (through traditional means or nontraditional) to be labeled or accused of being uppity or practicing elitism is outright laughable. America has become a culture that is spoon fed with few electing to research and learn. I fear for this country, I fear that our lack of desire and thirst for knowledge, like days of old, will result in our continued lagging educational performance behind developing nations. I fear that America will not be able to regain its once hard fought and earned respect. I fear for those people that believe knowledge and those that possess it are full of malevolence for the common man, immoral, or better yet “uppity”.

 

Perpetrator alert!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, September 30, 2008




Someone out there is using my pseudonym. STOP IT! Blogger does not allow the use of duplicate names, so these person posts using the Open ID function. Field Negro and anyone else’s page this person is posting to my name automatically links to my page. As for you, you other Jazzy please get your own name this one is taken.

 

Tuesday New Release day!

  • Posted by Kristin

Robin Thicke's new album Something Else is out and I will be picking it up. I liked the Evloution of Robin Thicke but there were quite a few tracks that I had to skip. I hear this album is better and if the single "Magic" is any indicator then the album might be a winner.



I will also pick up Jennifer Hudson’s new album titled Jennifer Hudson. You can listen to her album here. And if you didn’t already know that girl can sang!



 

Don't Forget Show Obama Your Support Day!

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Monday, September 29, 2008



OBAMA BLUE DAY!!!

Tuesday September 30, 20008 everyone is asked to do two things

1) WEAR BLUE

2) REGISTER TWO VOTERS!

(If you can't register two voters talk to two people who may be on the fence/ or a McCain supporter and sway them to become a Obama Supporter).

LET’S MAKE OBAMA BLUE DAY A DAY OF ACTION!!!!

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!

 

Sarah Palin expected to go Full Retard on Thursday's Debate

  • Posted by Kristin

The Sarah Palin/Katie Couric interview should leave no doubt in the minds of Americans that this woman a heart beat away from the presidency is incompetent and unfit to led. To her credit she has yet to go full retard keeping to "lukewarm retard" but have no doubt she will be in full retard mode on Thursday.


Transcript excerpts:

Couric : You’ve cited Alaska’s proximity to Russia as part of your foreign policy experience. What did you mean by that?

Sarah Palin :
That Alaska has a very narrow maritime border between a foreign country, Russia, and, on our other side, the land-boundary that we have with Canada. It’s funny that a comment like that was kinda made to … I don’t know, you know … reporters.

Couric : Well, explain to me why that enhances your foreign-policy credentials.

Palin :
Well, it certainly does, because our, our next-door neighbors are foreign countries, there in the state that I am the executive of. And there…

Couric : You don’t think the United States is within its rights to express its position to Israel? And if that means second-guessing or discussing an option?

Palin :
No, abso … we need to express our rights and our concerns and …

Couric: But you said never second guess them.

Palin :
We don’t have to second-guess what their efforts would be if they believe … that it is in their country and their allies, including us, all of our best interests to fight against a regime, especially Iran, who would seek to wipe them off the face of the earth. It is obvious to me who the good guys are in this one and who the bad guys are. The bad guys are the ones who say Israel is a stinking corpse and should be wiped off the face of the earth. That’s not a good guy who is saying that. Now, one who would seek to protect the good guys in this, the leaders of Israel and her friends, her allies, including the United States, in my world, those are the good guys.


See more funny videos at Funny or Die

 

Bush: Bailout Address

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Wednesday, September 24, 2008



I was for the bailouts until Bush opened his countrified mouth. In his address he squarely laid profound blame upon home owners for our nation’s current financial crisis. Bush all but absolved Wall Street for their culpability and shady practices that also played a significant role in damaging our financial infrastructure. Bush’s message carried a burdensome tone of fear that demanded immediate action or face an impending “Great Depression” once again. Mr. President for once since your unfortunate rise to POTUS Congress got it right and told you NO a blank check will not do. Congrats to the democrats for standing strong on this issue for fighting and demanding accountability, and instituting clauses that will not allow corporate execs to profit off of vulnerable tax-payers.

 

UUUGGGHHH! I sucked!

  • Posted by Kristin


I participated in a practice run of Shawn Williams new Blog Talk Radio show last night, and I suuuucckkkkeed. There was a technical glitch in the beginning that impaired my ability to begin talking when first prompted and lasted for a few minutes. When I was actually able to get in I was flustered, talking a mile a minute, rushing and using fillers. Lawd! Thank goodness for Shawn ,who did a great job. Hopefully, Thursday will be better and I won’t get kicked out of my co-hosting duties on the second go around. Please check out Shawn’s blog Dallas South for upcoming information regarding this weeks upcoming show.

 

Swagga Like Us

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Not much to post about today but, I LOVE this song!

 

Show Obama Your Support

  • Posted by Kristin
  • Friday, September 19, 2008


OBAMA BLUE DAY!!!


Its time to REPRESENT!!!!!


Tuesday September 30, 20008 everyone is asked to do two things

1) WEAR BLUE

2) REGISTER TWO VOTERS!

(If you can't register two voters talk to two people who may be on the fence/ or a McCain supporter and sway them to become a Obama Supporter).

LET’S MAKE OBAMA BLUE DAY A DAY OF ACTION!!!!

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!

 

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