Organicfairydust.net

The Princess and the Fort

2011-11-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

I took some photos of Miss DC Belleza Latina yesterday. Out of the 300 shots we took, I like the most intimate ones the most.

2011-11-01T07:05:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to me

2011-08-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

An earthquake & a hurricane during my bday week... not too shabby. I am in love with Sephora for giving me birthday treats! I can't believe I blew them off for 4 years.

Photojourney

2011-08-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

Summer wizzed by so quickly, there is talk of small victories:

I already feel like I've won: I've already had my last first day of undergraduate studies.

Eye of the Tiger

2011-07-09T09:08:00.000-07:00

Just playing around in Photoshop and came up with a bit of work and a bit of pleasure.

cinemagraphs!

2011-07-04T20:26:00.000-07:00

A new technique i'm fiddling with, although I haven't found my perfect scenario/subject I wanted to begin practicing the technique.

Psst, want to see better examples? Visit this site!http://www.flickr.com/groups/cinemagraphs/

Editor-In-Chief

2011-06-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Since I've last blogged, I've published another paper for the University (Which can be viewed below.) I find the hardest part of the paper is motivating the staff without any incentives. Our funds are co-mingled with the yearbook's, so I do not retain total control over the budget (which is only about 40k for the entire fiscal year for the entire student publication department.) The lackadaisical payment processing makes it hard to recruit and commit to potential advertisers and become a revenue generating entity.

Despite the challenges my team shows steady improvement in design and content. Copyediting should increase next issue, after that our only challenge will be timeliness. Check it out!
Trilogy April/May 2011

We are currently working on our welcome back edition, which I hope will be yet another major improvement.

PS - I have been spending most of my blogging time over at NubianIngenue.blogspot.com I guess I appreciate the lighthearted feel, this newspaper is heavy stuff.

I started a new make-up blog called:

2011-01-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

nubianingenue.blogspot.com

I could never find enough swatches of a NC50 girl, so I decided to contribute to the beauty blogging community. Strangely fitting after my previous post.

Only Happy When It Hurts

2010-12-10T18:33:00.000-08:00

Everything I consider beautiful hurts. From high heeled shoes to freshly waxed eyebrows, I subject myself to pain in hopes of refinement.

In a book called Fashion Victim: Our Love-Hate Relationship with Dressing, Shopping, and the Cost of Style, Michelle Lee speaks of fashion serving as a measuring stick to how far you're willing to go to "play the game." This isn't hard to believe when you consider studies have shown that women who wear makeup gross more annually than their natural counterparts. They are considered more serious about their careers when made up - not to mention women who favor skirt suits over pant suits. What about makeup makes a woman seem more pulled together than forgoance?
When I apply my face, I feel that I am preparing for war and have begun to call it warpaint. A quote I read in Blackbook magazine sums up my recent willingness to delve into make-up:

"Soft is harder than the hardest hard. Sweetness is stronger always. What it is to be strong and female means to be brazenly feminine, not merely to imitate or be the counterpart to the masculine."

It also reminds me of the poem We Wear the Mask by Paul L. Dunbar:

WE wear the mask that grins and lies,
It hides our cheeks and shades our eyes,—
This debt we pay to human guile;
With torn and bleeding hearts we smile,
And mouth with myriad subtleties.
Why should the world be over-wise,
In counting all our tears and sighs?
Nay, let them only see us, while

We wear the mask.
We smile, but, O great Christ, our cries
To thee from tortured souls arise.
We sing, but oh the clay is vile
Beneath our feet, and long the mile;
But let the world dream otherwise,
We wear the mask!

The drama of painting a face that resembles ours but with slightly larger eyes, lusher lashes, rosier cheeks, lips that glisten, eyes that sparkle & an unblemished face signal a virility that, logically, bags under the eyes, simple hair, practical shoes and reading glasses would present to onlookers. However, this weird study, this weird fascination with pain and progress is not new; one only has to look to the election of 2008 to see where the real -ism in America truly lies, sexism.

Gender and race, arguably the most heated topics on America's own social table presented itself in an election. Finally, a time when both Black and women candidates were qualified for presidency, America voted for the best man for the job. (Don't get it twisted, I am an Obama supporter to the core! Go Barack!) Even in the order of Amendments of the constitution you can see the Peking order of America's -isms.

Is that why women have adopted the adage that the price of beauty is pain? Does ripping hair from the roots off of legs and precious areas portray a certain willingness to please and comform by any means necessary? Nothing makes me feel sexier than my platform stilettos on freshly waxed stems. Gloss could never portray the brazen mood I felt when I partied with my girls for my 25th birthday, only MAC's Classic Dame could do that.

I am unsure why I'm only happy when it hurts, but I've always found a beautiful quality in sadness, a certain pleasure in pain... in knowing that I am able to feel. I don't mind being judged for a lack of make-up, because when I do put it on, I'm ready for war.

Light Bulb Terrariums

2010-12-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

It was love at first sight when i saw this tutorial! I can't wait to try it out!

On Revenge

2010-12-08T17:42:00.001-08:00

On Revenge is a prosaic piece written by Francis Bacon in 1625. In this essay he writes the only time revenge is beneficial is when it is beneficial to a body of people, such as retaliation against a government official. Personal revenge is perhaps more about coveting the pride that one feels has been chipped away through the action, or inaction, of another individual or entity. It has the heightened possibility to be petty and overpower the strength of the actual offense, blinding the vengeful from the lessons presented by life’s waxes and wanes.
Immediately after reading this piece I was offended by a mentor; I received a grade that, in my opinion, did not match the effort I invested into the recitation. In fact, I felt that I was judged on the delivery more so than the retention of the piece; I felt that I was deducted because of stage fright instead of knowing the material. I was upset mostly because the students who did not memorize the sonnets received a higher grade than me “because they performed them better.” I sulked in my chair, upset and hurt; good effort did not afford me a good grade in this circumstance and it was totally unacceptable. I left class before I could disrupt anyone with my personal tempest and complained to friends who I knew could understand.
A few things happened through this examination of anger and unfairness, I contemplated extravagant revenge plots, such as that of Caesar and Brutus and the effect it has on the community. Will the English majors crowd around and cheer at the impatience for injustice? Did I want to take this before the Chairman and have him weigh the circumstance? No, neither of those routes would be helpful at all. The thought of this exchange kept me up all night. As I tossed and turned I thought up elaborate schemes to seek my revenge. I thought of whispering to her after class “allez manger vos bonbons!” but I thought that may be a bit too vulgar and confrontational. The second grand scheme I conjured, in my three am haze, was the perfect revenge for a Shakespeare professor; I would print in large black letters: “A pox on all your houses.” What a brilliant idea! There were no university rules against slipping a quote on a piece of paper under your professor’s door. There was only one problem, I actually adore my professor and could not imagine actually putting a pox on her house. This mental exercise set my mind to rest, allowing me to focus on the discipline my professor was trying to instill in me and also illustrated that I had gone incredibly soft since enrolling in college. While I enjoyed playing out revenge fantasies in my mind, I felt incredibly guilty to have thought them about someone who has my best interest at heart and I was embarrassed at my spoiled reaction to discipline. Often we are taught to “think positive thoughts” but sometimes it may be more beneficial to allow one’s mind a little leeway to wander and explore all of the ideas that swirl around which in turn will help determine the boundaries that are sometimes undefined in the untamed overgrowth of suppressed thoughts.

Personal revenge is a funny beast, sucking all energy and focus from the architect of the plan and affecting no one else in any substantial way. Of course, there is the adage that one should watch the environment of their minds, for thoughts surely become actions if incubated long enough, but I have found that the line of morality is carefully guarded by ethics. Exploring the parameters and personal philosophy of revenge is a sort of meditation that everyone should practice at least once in their lives – if only to truly examine how bold or polite you are so we can be honest with ourselves.

My childhood sounded like...

2010-11-30T13:21:00.001-08:00

Abstract for African American Literature

2010-11-27T12:40:00.000-08:00

Here is a draft for one of my papers due this term; wish me luck!

     For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf , choreopoem written by Ntozake Shange in 1975. Structurally constructed of 20 poems ranging from rape, sexual and reproductive freedom, is considered a quintessential Black feminist text. In autumn 2010, the choreopoem was adapted for film by Tyler Perry, a male conservative. The poems were rehashed and reappropriated into stories of consequence, reminiscent of Zoroastrianism, and the melancholy tales lost their message of unity through sisterhood, joy, and finding God within the souls of everyday women. Essentially, Tyler’s rendition uses one of the crowing jewels of Black feminist literature to undermine the key principles of the movement.

     To research, I will analyze Tyler’s adaptation of Black feminist texts such as For Colored Girls and P.U.S.H., which was also adapted to film by Perry, to see if there is a pattern in his interpretations. To examine if P.U.S.H is also a Black feminist text, which in the wrong hands, can be used as reinforcement to negative stereotypes of African American women in the media. I will explore the demographics targeted and the way Perry portrays dominant vs. submissive roles, and intergendered relationships in his films as contrasted by the text.

     If my hypothesis is correct, then a manifesto must be created to counterbalance the disarming of Black feminist texts. The larger implication of leaving this representation unchecked is the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes of black women; reinforced by the dangrous assumption that black women wrote the texts therefore it must be a true representation of African American womanhood. Furthermore, the phenomenon of transference is highly probable to younger movie goers who are less likely to read the actual literature. This means the nature of Black Feminism is skewed to represent the opposite ideals it was created for.

{link} My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy: The Samples

2010-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Thank my friend U.R.G. for this free download; I usually burn it and give it to my boyfriend and let him think I'm awesome without any extra work. ^_^

Download Link

Grow like Dandelions: Homemade Hair Oil Recipe

2010-11-20T10:13:00.000-08:00

K. Agyeman

Before I returned to school, and when I had spare time, I used to make all my haircare products because the haircare industry wasn't producing a pure enough product for my liking. I came up with Dandelion Oil which, strangely, has no dandelions in it. I gave it that name because everyone who used it raved about their hair growing so quickly.

{If you have a Ras for a boyfriend, this is the perfect "just because present."}

This recipie may not work well for people whose natural hair texture is devoid of kinks or curls.

Want to give it a try? Here's what you will need:

sidenote: everything should be pure, high quality, devoid of extra ingredients & additives. This will make 4-7 bottles so it's okay to spulrge on quality; otherwise you're better off with Carol's Daughter products.

oils

lanolin 3 oz

castor oil 2 oz

tea tree oil 3 oz

light olive oil 4 oz

herbs

Dried Nettle leaves

Dried rose leaves

essential oil tinctures

lavender (or dried herbs, whichever is cheaper at your supplier)

carrot oil

lemongrass

sage

This is what tinctures look like; pure essential oils should always be cut with a base.

other tools

A nice 18 oz bottle (try thriftstores or the container store for affordable ones)

Process

Put dried herbs and all oils except the lanolin in a pot and heat over very low heat. Watch pot constantly stirring occasionally. Times will vary, but I usually simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour.
Turn off flame, add lanolin and cover until mixture cools & add dried herbs. TIP: If you heat the lanolin too high, your mixture, and house, will smell like burning wool; not very attractive.
Add 20 drops of carrot, sage, lavender oil;10 drops lemongrass.
Cover, let stand & allow to steep.
When cooled, transfer to bottle; keep some dried herbs at the bottom.
Let steep for 1-2 weeks.

How to use

I use this oil once in the morning, and once in the evening before bed. My mom, who wears her hair straightened, uses it once in the morning; she only needs a dime sized dollop, I used as much as my hair will soak up. A bottle used this way lasts me 6 months to a year; lasts my mom 12 months. Most people I make it for start to see dramatic results after 2-3 wks of regular use. If you have any questions about the ingredients ask away!

Hope you find this recipe useful!

no goddess you know

2010-11-19T07:19:00.000-08:00

1

i am not Venus.
although men throw their hearts at
my feet like roses

2

my kiss petrifies
men; leaving them as he left
me. heartless. empty. hardened.

3

my body is a
monument representing
the destroyed temple.

4

Beauty is my bait
used to lure illusionists
who tempt me with joy.

5

disenthralled i charm,
until frauds reveal themselves,
& turn to stone too.
_______________

A string of 5 haiku for my creative writing class. I compiled a suite of poems to show how life can harden and tame free spirits. I called it Anise Flavored Thoughts & other daily battles of Synasthesia.

Edit: Click here to read the entire suite.

Kleancolor Nail Lacquer

2010-11-12T13:22:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty excited! Since I found 2 dollars worth of quarters in my pants pockets today while doing laundry, and for the first time in a long time, I had a couple dollars to blow. But what could I do with that kind of picket change? Well, if I put aside my Whole Foods chemical-free doctrine, plenty. {So sometimes I sell out, sue me!}
I initially set out to find turquoise eyeliner so that I can recreate this look:

Sure I'd have to adjust the shade, but I thought it would be nice to wear during the weekend. I couldn't find any shade of turquoise liner within my budget so I headed across the street to the local beauty supply store. Nothing. But I did get distracted by some sparkly polishes!

In my excitement, and chattering on the phone, I didn't notice they were Kleancolor products. I once bought a cheap pallatte from them, while on a Thurgood Marshall training at Howard U, and it was horrible. The colors creased and dissipated almost immediately. I am still trying to find out what to do with poor pigments that have collected in my drawers over the years. I digress, sorry! I tried these out and they are extremely sparkly and have a great glitter pay off. I tried to do a swatch but I can't hold the camera and take a clear shot so I decided to try to show you on a box. That didn't work out so well because I got too artsy with the photo.

(Yes, I was trying to hide the fact that I use Ardell wax strips to clean up my brows until the "drought" is over.)

Anywhoo, You can tell the sparkles show up pretty nicely, my advice would be to use a good top coat to keep them in place for the week. I'll try and convince my honey to take pictures of my manicure; I have a feeling the starry polish is going to get some action tonight.

Product information:
Kleancolor shades "31 - Silver Star" & "35 Starry Purple"
$.99/each @ the beauty supply store.

Pros:
Pricepoint
Color Selection
Color payoff is dope
Cute Packaging
Decent Brush

Cons:
High chemical formula contains formaldehyde

Tips:
Seems to work better when "tapped" on as opposed to "painted on."

Rock Creek Park (oh, yeah!)

2010-11-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

I finally got to play with one of the older cameras from the newsroom. Whenever I took pictures of events they would come out blurry or fuzzy so I decided to get to know the Nikon D70; to become one with the machine! Since it was such a nice day, my honey took me to the park to catch the leave's striptease; or what everyone else calls the autumn show. I must admit though, I got nervous at so much untamed nature and refused to walk the trails. What if a deer came after me? Do you know they cause more deaths per year than any other animal? At least that's what my friend Stryker told me. Anyway, here are some of the shots (but you must promise to play the Rock Creek theme song before you do):

Don't you step on my...

2010-11-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

blue suede shoes! ^_^ Found them brand new, under $20.00 in Williamsburg, VA. I love, love, love them! They are technically a birthday present from my honey, but I haven't found an excuse to wear them yet. I'll try to mess around on Polyvore a bit.. see what I can come up with. Hopefully I'll wear them to the end of the semester bash. If not, Homecoming is a good enough excuse... goodness knows I deserve to party hardy after so much olde English translation. Oy vey!

I have some treats lined up for you over the next few weeks. I'll tell you all about my essential oil recipe for shiny, healthy locs that grow like dandelions {weeds, that is}; affective, affordable nailpolish, and I'll have a guest blog from my friend U.R.G. (Urban Renaissance Gentleman) on the the best of thrifting in D.C. It's going to be pretty awesome.

For now I'm off to do more work. Until next time, check out the personal tumblr for a peek into my inspiration folder. xoxo.

Officially missing Toronto

2010-11-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

Or maybe I'm missing the bright colors of summer now that the frost is officially nipping at my fingertips and my knit hat isn't optional. DC falls are gorgeous, especially since I travel through Rock Creek Park, but the damp coolness makes my joints ache.

"heavy is the head that wears the crown"

Even if it is made of feathers. I have about 50 pages of research to write in 3 weeks, but I have great tutorials and recipes coming up. Meantime sorry for my hibernation.Have a good rest of the week starshines and twinkles of all sizes! I'll be back soon, classes are consuming any resemblance of a normal life! ^_-

xoxo
Ayesha

Guess where I am?!

2010-10-08T18:12:00.001-07:00

I'm interning for Artistic Sole at Comic Con NY! Isn't that exciting? I'll have lot of pics and updates... but tonight the search is on for food and then more homework. xoxo

they say

2010-10-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

"you need to act your age" just because I haven't given up faith. They say I gave up on them for (insert thing here,) just because I am certain about the steps of my journey.

Vision must be accompanied by faith and purpose; when you have your purpose, work.

Tiger Nails

2010-09-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Don't judge me - I am rooting for the bengals simply because I can be a super fan and paint my nails to look like their helmets. I got some good reviews so I decided to put the video here so others can find it. Happy painting!

Now, back to trying to translate olde english to modern english. Quite impossible without a language lesson if you ask me.

ANJ

shoe fascination

2010-09-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

I'm at The Fashion Spot reading a post on high heels and came across some great advice in regards for shopping for high heels:

Eurasian Mélange

Quote:
Originally Posted by LaurenRC
I love them, but I usually only wear them when I go out. But ladies who wear them everyday, what's your secret? How do your feet not hurt!?

Trying on a billion pairs until I find a pair that fits. Making sure the shape of my foot follows the shape of the sole. That the sole is solid, yet soft. That the heel is more of a mid heel or a kitten heel rather than a high heel. The heel starts directly from the centre of your heel and not too far back. Good quality shoes.

1st edition is out

2010-09-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Although I didn't get the total make-over I wanted it was fairly decent. The lack of supporting editors was evident... all the others graduated last semester and finding a replacement that has a good attitude and the skills to perform is darn near impossible.

The 2 people that I know will take the paper to the next level have real jobs and responsibilities and aren't able to help. There are people with agendas that want in the paper... they can contribute but not be a part of the staff; they just don't know that yet. People hate stories because they weren't in depth enough but they didn't answer interview requests. People are mad that (as a favor) we printed exactly what they gave us... they want me to write a retraction. No. Be more careful about what you submit to a newspaper. My staff felt the need to tell me what they definitely were and were not going to do and at which time they would do it... they learned quickly that while I adore unicorns and diamonds I'm made of steel and glass shards.

But all these things slip away when you see your efforts in print on glorious expensive paper. All its flaws in wording and imagery become secondary to holding bundles of your babies in your arms.

I am excited about the next round of papers - with a new layout editor and what I'll call my unofficial art director (thank you for helping me.) I'll be honest, transparent and reveal the motives behind the people who thought the trilogy was a puppet to use at their disposal. Don't be mad... it's just business.

Girl's Night In

2010-09-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

Last week I followed Jazzi's link for disco nails, but this week I'm going for a look inspired by Free People, my fav mid level brand.

I'll probably do a multi colored pastel sequence on my nails... haven't decided. I'll use some medium thick yarn to get the colorful extensions in.

Yes, I've thrown "looking serious" out the window. What are you going to primp?

An Assignment

2010-09-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

The assignment was to riff off of "Notes to the Air". Here's mine:

Among houseplants and rubber sponges lay my chance to prove I’m a real woman; but first I must finish my workout and class work and news articles. I’ll scrub the floors as soon as I finish scrubbing my face and applying my MAC war paint so I won’t have to hear another speech about how a woman’s femininity is defined by her nails and skin. I’ll take a break from checking labels for carcinogens in my local grocery store and get around to wiping down the fridge. I’ll sweep the floors instead of reading endless articles of entrepreneurship from my favorite crafted internet personality and wear boring gray trousers to avoid seeming ostentatious. I’ll twist my hair firmly from the roots and always twirl it into a tight ballerina’s coil. I’ll pretend that I didn’t get my Vera Wang from thrift stores so that the people in the government housing rent office will treat me as if I am someone worth listening to; as I am probably a “secret shopper” surveying their customer service; this way my mother will get a nicer unit. I’ll retire my tiaras because joined with my rainbow painted toes no one will take me or my interpretation of Symposium seriously. This is how I’ll prove I’m a real woman.

Grr!

2010-09-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

I would never want to disappear and return only when I need to blow off steam, but (readership that has evaporated after my classes started) I am so flipping angry and I can't say why! I'm not this person, volatile thoughts pent up to create a refined version of myself. Maybe I am. These things I know for sure:

Haters are real, they hate you for breathing.
This is a caricature of something that could be so... beautiful.
I throw temper tantrums - it's my daddy's fault.
Speaking of him - Ceelo has a song I should dedicate to him
Cognition: It's not just for ugly people you vapid little snot! UGH!

I'm doing my grad work in Europe. This is butterscotch!

Tools of the trade: Advanced editing software

2010-08-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

I recently came across an extreme editor called "White Smoke" that is like the autocorrector in word on OVERDRIVE. Click here for more info on this powerful tool.

PS- If you order this software, be sure to open chat and inquire about student discounts. ;)

Update #3: All about words

2010-08-21T07:43:00.001-07:00

So after an administrative tussle deciding if I am to be the editor or not, I am officially the editor, AGAIN. Not only must I get an issue out by September, I have some back work to submit from last term. 5 research papers in 3 months just wasn't realistic. To avoid this problem next semester, I am going to merge the subjects so that each one paper can be used for two classes. Conveniently, I am taking:

Shakespeare I
Brit Lit I (took II first)
African Am Lit I
Am Lit I
Adv. Creative Writing
& Intro to Proofreading and copy editing (good practice & direction while on the paper)

so I plan to combine am lit with African Am lit for a paper
and Brit lit I and Shakespeare since they will be covering the same time pd. (I assume since Brit lit II didn't cover Shakespeare.) We will see how that turns out! Now, back to work on my welcome issue.

Update #2: The Graffiti Museum

2010-08-21T07:19:00.000-07:00

Next I went to the graffiti museum with my good friend DJ and my boyfriend. It was the first time my honey had to share my time with another friend. But I think it went over fairly well. Do I have pics? of course!

Ps- Many are big enough to be a desktop wallpaper if you click through to the flickr page. But please do not redistribute or use in your artworks. I'll post more soon, as this wall is ever changing and breathing!

Update #1: Temporium Days

2010-08-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

Seems like I have been gone forever. This has been a crazy week, and I'm so glad my mom gave me the day off. I just spent the last 15 hours unpacking my childhood from a huge moving truck. If gone unchecked for another 5 years, my mom and I could have been nominated for "hoarders" or something. lol.

I spent all day directing day laborers and standing off with a lady truck driver who mistakenly took my mom for a pushover and "unleashed the dragon." Since I've been gone I've done some work for Artistic Sole, my sister's visual art company, which ranges from tattoos & skate decks to couture. I was their face for two days at Temporium and got to meet Amazing artists like Artistic Aya and I got serenaded by US Royals. Here are some pics:

US Royals

Artistic Sole's Booth

shirts and skate decks

Borneo Shirts (I bought two)

Go DJ!

Ask her the inspiration behind her line, you'll want to scoop up so many pieces just for the romanticism

Purses by Artistic Aya (I wanted one so badly!)

And I'm telling you...

2010-08-12T18:03:00.000-07:00

I know it seems like I've gone missing, and I know I owe you many stories, but I'll be back soon, I promise! I've been doing lots of watercolor experimentation lately. I love how this one turned out. What do you think? I t just doesn't seem "finished".

PS- I was trying to be super trendy and use lowercase for all my titles, but I keep forgetting. It's so uninstrinsic (so what lol ) that I think I'll just give up on that venture now. xoxo

Business Cards

2010-08-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

I always find it so hard to create business cards for myself. I wonder why that is? I was teaching a student of mine how to install and use photoshop brushes and have since had many wonderful whimsical brushes in my toolkit that I hardly ever use, so sitting around one day I made a business card for the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland.

I could only spend 10 minutes on it, but I think it suits him rather well. ^_^

Lots of great brushes: Crazy Kira Resources

3 Free, Dope Mix-tapes

2010-08-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

I love poetry and literature in all forms so I get lost in lyrics often. I am not above musical junkfood, but there has to be a certain level of showmanship and artistry. So I hope to explore that in a way that's a bit more refined that posting Facebook notes with killer lyrics. To introduce my new column:

I've decided to provide links to my favorite FREE mix tapes. They are in the R&;B / Hip-Hop category this week, but my taste is diverse so expect an eclectic mix from this column.

1. Oh Word's "31 Flavors of Love: The Ultimate Valentine's Day Hip-Hop"
Boy is was super hard to find these days! Something went wrong with this wonderful site, but the link provided is still functional.

I have no disposable income but I needed to do something nice for my boyfriend for our first Valentine's Day together. That's when I stumbled upon this little gem on the web to include in his goody-bag:

The name is hilarious but there are lots of great tracks on this one:

1. Prince Paul You Made Me (AKC)
Since it’s Prince Paul, we’re fairly certain there’s some kind of massively twisted inside-joke embedded in this beautiful instrumental. If you figure it out, please don’t let us in on it.

2. Pharohe Monch The Light
Monch’s “The Light” stands the test of time better than Common’s.

3. Pete Rock and CL Smooth Searching
This was a respectable rap ballad with an R&B hook in an era when any track softer than “Da Mystery of Chessboxin’” was readily dismissed.

4. Pharcyde She Said (Amsterdam Version)
The Pharcyde will be forever remembered for their obnoxiously overplayed ode to unrequited love but this remix of “She Said” by Jay Dee may be their finest moment.

5. The Roots f/ D’angelo The ‘Notic
On a superior remix that was curiously relegated to the Men In Black soundtrack, Black Thought longs for a reunion with an old flame while D’Angelo breathes new life into an Earth, Wind, and Fire chorus.

6. Count Bass D w/ Dionne Farris Seven Years
Rap tends to celebrate the excesses of bachelorhood but Count Bass D. and hisMPC make settling down with wifey sound nearly as palatable as the fast life .

7. Eric B. & Rakim What’s On Your Mind
The God MC seduces a high-class queen with the irresistible combination of pure game and The Cosby Show, over a sample from ‘Curious’ by Midnight Star.

8. Boogiemonsters Honeydips In Gotham
Ugly sistas be quiet; this joint is dedicated to the cocoa-buttered down mocha-brown ‘dips you’ll see in Washington Square Park on a hazy day in June.

9. Bahamadia I Confess (The Roots Remix)
The Roots back their Philly sister Bahamadia’s incomparable flow and transform the cheesy original into the definitive fly love song.

10. A Tribe Called Quest Electric Relaxation
Ronnie Foster’s “Mystic Brew” was already shimmering gem even before the Tribe intervened.

11. OC Can’t Go Wrong
On his sophomore LP the D.I.T.C. wordsmith eschewed lurid tales of wayward bisexual temptresses for an espousal of devotion to his hypnotizing, mesmerizing high-school sweetheart over DJ Ogee’s understated but soulful production.

12. World Renown Butter Love
Yet another K-Def diamond-in-the-rough that never saw the light of day? You don’t say! Title says it all – neither Parkay nor margarine.

13. Jungle Brothers Black Woman
The most adventurous, least celebrated, and most spiteful Native Tongue affiliates take a break from bragging about their dicks to wax rhapsodic on love and respect.

14. Method Man f/ Mary J. Blige You’re all I Need (Razor Sharp Edit)
The next snap-hop YouTube rap star was likely conceived to the ghostly thump of this respectful interpretation of Marvin and Tammy’s haunting duet.

15. Rumpletilskinz Sweet Therapy
If you only caught their videos, you’d assume that life in Uniondale, Long Island consisted mostly of stomping through vacant lots but people there also fall in love.

16. Ghostface Camay
Admittedly, having a girlfriend who holds a managerial position at Paragon would be kind of ill.

17. Lost Boyz Renee (remix)
Finally, a song tailored specifically to legal scholar/thug relationships.

18. Goodie Mob Beautiful Skin
Quirkily romantic and yet convincing.

19. Black Star Brown Skin Lady
A song so good its horrific hook is soon forgotten.

20. Lord Finesee Let’s Get It On (instr)
We’re all sensitive people and we all need a cigarette/ wine break, right?

21. Guru ft. N’Dea Davenport Trust Me
Guru as nebbish fretting over his insecurities to a nurturing and sexy N’Dea Davenport; a romantic comedy on wax.

22. KMD Plumskinz
Peachfuzz or not, Zev Luv X. and co. needed to get theirs, too, and they did so, over a sample of Bobbi Humphrey’s scintillating “Black and Blues.”

23. Digable Planets Swoon Units
Think Jet Screamer wooing Judy Jetson in the midst of a hashish haze.

24. Lone Catalysts Ayanna Monet
Making a pass at Posdnous’ daughter in the future on some ol’ next shit.

25. Poor Righteour Teachers Shakiyla
Wise Intelligent kicks elevated game, Culture Freedom warbles.

26. Lord Finesse Gameplan
The original Funkyman suggests that he gets women “open like a Ceasarean” and still gets the drawers.

27. Devin the Dude Too Cute
You know the interludes in When Harry Met Sally where couples sit down to talk about how they almost didn’t get together. Imagine one of those but with a chick who probably is “too cute” and a stoner named Devin as the dude.

28. Al-Tariq Nikki
Post-Beatnuts and newly converted to Islam, Fashion is smitten by a sensational shorty.

29. De La Soul Eye Know
Otis Redding’s whistle, overt samples from Steely Dan’s ode to an, ahem, art film star, and good clean De La flirtation

30. UGK f/ Outkast International Players anthem
Andre’s whole verse especially “spaceships dont come equipped with rearview mirrors” outweigh the bravado from his concerned groomsmen.

31. Trendz of Culture Valley Of The Skinz
Vignettes of a “ghetto Romeo and Juliet” over hard drums and iridescent excerpts taken from Roy Ayers’ “Everybody Loves The Sunshine.”

Download Playlist | See full archived post

My guy absolutely adored this listing. Read the archived post for a wonderful little anecdote. I hope this blog is reincarnated.

2.) The Geek Squad "AlterNative Thinking"
I found this group via Art-N-Hustle's blog and have had it on repeat ever since. Be sure to hop over there and watch their interview; I think their philosophy on music has solidified me as an avid supporter of them. Enough talking, here are the goods:

Download Playlist | Website | Art-N-Hustle Interview | Twitter

3.) Artistic Sole Presents: Indian Pussy's Je'Tadore
Okay so I'm only presenting you with the MP3 included in the goodie bag. I am a part of the Artistic Sole family (because she's my sister) which includes "trash art", tattoos, a comic strip and a clothing line. As a way to celebrate Comic Book Day, Imani aka Indian Pussy aka The Infamous I.K.B, released a dope mix-tape as a surprise/treat for her customers. Enjoy!

Download Playlist | Website | Source | Twitter

Hope you'll enjoy them! If you know of any others, please leave a link in the comment section.
xoxo

I'm back!

2010-08-03T06:14:00.000-07:00

What a ride! The semester has officially started for me and I'm already swamped (but in a good way).

I ended up smashing my phone at Caribana, and I haven't had a chance to upload/edit any pictures yet but I did take a video in a Torontolooksgoodonyou.com booth and learned some wisdom from "The Alchemist".

Blghonline.com took my picture, but I'm not sure if I will make the post or not. I'm still tired from the 24 hours of non-stop-SOCA on the party bus but here's the video:

Yeah, he totally hogged the camera! ^_^ I'll be writing very soon after my meetings.

PS- I've missed you!

Travel reads

2010-07-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

There was a "book donation" box that sat outside my office so I decided to rummage through it. There I found this:

Isn't it beautiful? It smells wonderful - like an old, quiet library. I've heard of this author in a Eric Jerome Dickey novel, Pleasure (don't judge me) but I've never actually read it. Legend has it that she wrote this book of erotica for a wealthy male patron at $1.00 a page. He wanted it devoid of poetry, but she couldn't resist! I'm sure erotica from the 40's can't be too risqué... look at the cover for goodness' sake!

The other book I'll be reading is:

A gift from my honey. This book comes highly recommended as a "eye opening" book that pushes it's readers to want to do more with their lives than "be comfortable." Well, I'll let you know how they both were (if you don't already.)

Any more last minute reading suggestions? I know Lola would recommend cupcake books! ^_^

Officially the Editor-In-Chief of the School Newspaper

2010-07-28T11:26:00.001-07:00

This is a rite of passage for most writers I admire (see: Flannery O'Connor) and yet having so much riding on me is a bit weird. Already the slick eyes and motives are upon me.

I did not seek this position, honestly, I wanted to be the office manager. That would provide a small pay and I would get the luxury of a secured place to put my books when class is dismissed. Everyone had their favorites for the editor's position, but due to poor personality or lack of accumulated credits I was offered this position... on the humble.

I arrived, ready to earn a few dollars so that I can afford my ticket to Caribana (yay~!) and left with a prestigious (to me at least) position that would allow me to affect the way my school is viewed. (no pressure?)

When I excitedly tell administration they either pitch me their agendas or glare discouragingly and warn me about the grading requirements. *le sigh*

Then there are the pressing issues of my own head. No longer will I have a set of editors to comb my work before it goes to press; no longer am I solely responsible for my own work but now responsible for how professional my team and the University comes across.

This is not to say I don't have a team of talented writers and editors, indeed I will need their support, input and even revisions! However, the final product falls on me: the girl with 5 English classes this term and 2 professors who are tiny terrors into themselves.

Besides all of that this is a great endeavor that I've undertaken and I can't wait for my first meeting next week.

I will be going to Caribana and I'm not sure if I'll be able to bring my laptop with me, so please keep yourselves busy until I came back. Analytics tell me that there is a tiny bit of loyal readers and I want you to know that I appreciate the fact that you read. If ever there is anything you'd like to see (jewelry or photoshop tutorials, more awesome websites and blogs for style or webdesign) let me know. I am the "queen of everything" when it comes to artsy things. I promise to bring lots of pictures and cool stories. Until next time! xoxo

my style evolution and philosophy

2010-07-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

Maybe I over-accesorized

INTRODUCTION

I have always had a definite philosophy on style and appearance. I can remember back to Head Start when the teacher would send notes to my mother asking that I come in my casual clothes so that I can play circle time with the other children. What the teacher didn't know, is that those were my casual dresses and the only time I would give my mother grief (by crying and throwing tantrums) is being put in an uncomfortable get-up whose dizzying pattern made me sick to my stomach.

Around 2005 I found myself repeating what would later become a style mantra: Authenticity is beautiful. Never fake anything.

Then working at Whole Foods and on my own for the first time, I began a search for authenticity and radiating kindness. I wanted my clothes to reflect my politics. If I abhorred sweatshops then how could I genuinely rock Nike's? Those two assertions (wearing Nike's shoes and abhorring sweatshops) are contradictory. So, I made decisions to cut PVC, plastics and known unethical labor from my wardrobe. I began to look at companies such as Stella McCartney and Free People as well as thrifting. Thrifting allowed me to get designer and recycled items cheaply. There was also a PVC, plastic loophole which I took advantage of.

MY STYLE PRINCIPLES:

1.) I always remain true to my own vision.

2.) I always display my understanding of style vs. fashion.

3.) I always dress for the event & err on the side of overdressed.

4.) I always wear jewelry that shows respect for the venue:

Fake gaudy diamonds at a hole in the wall club? sure.
Dazzling costume jewelry attending a ball? asbsolutely.
Tiffany's at the celebrity filled dinner? iconic pieces only.

5.) I always purchase things that will leave me with a clear conscience.

6.) I thrift and consign my butt off to stay stylish on a shoestring budget.

7.) When it comes to fashion, I only drop names when purposely conveying frivolity in a particular outfit.

ACCESSORIES

Instead of my staple corner-store diamond studs, those of which I can pick out with such skill that they will fool even the snobbiest, moneyed grandma, I resolved to experiment with real materials that I could afford like wood beaded bracelets and up-cycled the crystals from thrifted old windchimes. I sought beads that were the same tone as my skin. This $0.75 thrifted necklace has lasted my 4 years and has served as a bracelet that serves up attitude at night and reeks of a lackadaisical cool during the day. It's like a pair of perfect nude heels and matches everything. Crystals cast light near my face and play up my eyes, randomly throwing small rainbows on my cheeks.

This, I've been told, is positively enchanting.

Shoes are a weakness. I don't know how I became so obsessed with them. I have no idea when it became so serious, but I will spend opulently and search hours on end for an attractive bag or shoe. I will skip the thrift store and head straight to a consignment shop hoping to score my new favorite pair of vintage Italian heels. Sadly, I have to pry most of my favorites from my mother's closet when she is going through a "spring cleaning." I admire the work and craft exhibited in such vintage shoes. How can a girl resist?

I began to see fake baubles and purses as a futile way to impress the elite and bourgoise. This was ridiculous, because any real fashion lover can look at the pattern or shape on your fake Gucci and know that this product was never released from that particular fashion house. The exact people who I felt this practice was trying to impress, was exactly the group these practices would isolate you from.

I vowed to live stylishly within my means, focusing more on fit, shape and the intended statement.

And so began my Free People love affair. They had pieces that looked as if they were hand made: laid back, beautifully detailed with luxurious fabrics. I would save up a few paycheck and invest in classic shapes and fabrics. When I went out and need to look expensive, as my grandmother would say, I would break out a nice pair of thrifted jeans. My dad taught me when I was a little girl "the more expensive a garment is, the harder you must search to find it's label." I cringed at the photos which I'm wearing someone's logo plastered across my chest. What is that even? An advertisement that seemingly associates one with the lifestyle that is cultivated and sold by various fashion houses. Fashion houses are comprised of several artists, all putting their signature subtly into a garment through form, texture, shapes and trademark detailing. If you have an authentic item of note, the affluent and educated will notice - if your goal is to impress. I didn't have to announce to the world that my dress was Vera Wang at the last ball I attended, everyone loved the cut, architectural detailing and quality/sheen of the fabric. What I won't tell them is that it was thrifted and cost less than many of their beautiful hairstyles.

Weekend Wear

I would love to tell you that people don't judge you by what you wear, but that would be a harsh untruth. I would say cleanliness and satisfaction with yourself is more important than who you impress - but there are times when you will need to look the part before others can take you seriously. This is when you play the game. Learn classic fabrics: silk, tweed, chiffon, cotton, seersucker, wool & tan or black leather. Learn to sew (or hire a tailor) and make subtle adjustments.

Aside from being tacky in its own folly filled assumptions - it's advertising that you probably don't have a lot of money, as you only wear the cheapest of any of the fashion houses' lines. (further reading)

Please, do excuse the room.

I wish this meant that I was above an occasional name drop, I'm not. I'm from the (very nice part of the) hood. Sometimes you have to spell it out. Sometimes It's fun to be frivilous and absurd. As I've gotten older I still stick to most of my principles. I am totally comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone and being open to change, however, there is one thing I won't compromise on style-wise: authenticity.

I love that someone can look at me and tell that I am a frazzled editor during the week and playful gypsy in my off time. I love that you can tell I'm gutsy and silly when I prance around in tutus and demand that everyone wear a tiara at my birthday party (we are all queens, non?) I love that I have been wearing some of my clothes for 5 years and that my black converse have seen 5 of the world's most beautiful metropolises. To me, that is extremely beautiful... to be unabashedly... me! What was your style evolution like?

xoxo

Dear Glamour Magazine,

2010-07-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

I know that it's not something you'd like to hear, but it's over. I subscribed in October because of the awesome issue you put together, but save the Alice in Wonderland themed issue and the editorial featuring Victoria Beckham, but it's all been very lackluster.

Every month you recycle the same topics. Yes, I appreciate your well rounded view on body shapes but your make-up and styling suggestions are incredibly boring. If one has the fall and spring editions - from any year - then that's all one really needs from you. I need more, in depth articles. I need whimsical yet sophisticated styling options. I am almost 30, after all! Our relationship was nice but we both knew this wasn't a forever thing... just a fun fling. Now you just use buzzwords and key phrases to attract me through marketing like a guy on the prowl at a bar. Well that isn't going to work. I unsubscribed only for you to attempt to keep me in this shallow, one sided relationship for an additional issue. This is unacceptable.

I tried to unsubscribe to your daft email updates about eyeshadow and liners (that never look any different from one another) only to be consistently let down. What, pray tell, makes this look "fairy princess"?

{ Full link here }

Lying to get me to stay is the last straw. Just because there is shimmer in this look does not make it "fairy princess." Do you even read literature? What work does this evoke? Your lies, your lack of deliverance and lack of varied brown models is cementing our demise. Sure, I'll be back next October, but just for a quickie. Just to see what's new with you... nothing serious. There is no substance here, you know what it is, let's not pretend. It's over. Don't write, email or attempt to bribe me with fancy compacts and make-up bags. I've already forwarded your address to my spam folder.

PS - I really did love you.

Want to learn a pretty makeup look? { click here! }

still high off of my trip to NYC... i'm easily impressed

2010-07-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

Who knew a trashcan could look so cool?

free happy thoughts

2010-07-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

These are super easy to make and brighten people's day as they are found. I print these and post them at bustops in "the hood", business districts and universities. I'm hoping you will be a vigilante with me and share the happy thoughts!

I made this a while back for my personal tumblr. Please print and post in public places.

Proust Questionnaire

2010-07-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

I was addicted to surveys in the past but I promise this will be the only one to grace this blog. Besides, if Proust did it, it must be classy, oui?

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR?
That I am powerful beyond measure it would seem. I also have an irrational fear of dogs... however I have started looking at the smaller ones as tiny teddy-bears. This fear is the one that would be most noticeable from an outsider's perspective.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT STATE OF MIND?
I am happy, fatigued, unsure, anxious ... but calm.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE OCCUPATION?(WAY OF SPENDING TIME)
Photography, writing, cooking, illustrating ... using ellipses. ;)

WHAT HISTORICAL FIGURE DO YOU MOST IDENTIFY WITH?
I would say Gordon Parks. His book Choice of Weapons changed my life. The way he changed mediums of expression seamlessly. The fact that it was all intrinsic for him, the fact that there was someone else like me totally unrelated, made me feel exponentially less alone in the world.

WHICH LIVING PERSON DO YOU MOST ADMIRE?
The word "which" denotes there is only room for the exploration of one person in this answer. That makes me terribly anxious for fear of alienating those who I admire most in such a limited forum.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE FICTIONAL HERO?
The Booklings from the story "City of Dreaming Books" or "Rumo" from the book Rumo.

WHO ARE YOUR REAL-LIFE HEROES?
Those that value honesty over popularity. My parents, at their best, for allowing me to stay soft in such a tough environment. The teachers and administrators that fought through unprecedented sorrow to provide me with an education. Nancy Schwalb, Kenneth Carroll and Robert Bisi for being effective youth advocates.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSION?
I hate this because I'll either seem pretentious, daft or bragadocious. I'll choose the pearl necklace my grandmother gave me for turning 16 via family tradition.

WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU HAPPIEST?
I'm always happiest when in a large garden running after or being chased by the children in my life.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST OBVIOUS CHARACTERISTIC?
If you meet me in a work environment: overachiever.
If you meet me in a playful environment: artistic and energetic.

WHAT IS THE TRAIT YOU MOST DEPLORE (HATE) IN YOURSELF?
Nothing, for my weakness under control is my strongest strength.

WHAT IS THE TRAIT YOU MOST DEPLORE IN OTHERS?
Black people praying exclusively to white Gods or Saints. WTH is that? People who dwell on their negativity through the internet (you are typing on a computer in a sheltered area, is it really that bad?)

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?
I please myself by any means necessary. Yes, even if that means walking around in a tutu... I care, not!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE JOURNEY?
Towards enlightenment; anything to get me nearer to France again.

WHAT DO YOU MOST DISLIKE ABOUT YOUR APPEARANCE?
Extra weight gain & acne on skin that bruises at the slightest discomfort.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST OVER-RATED VIRTUE?
Politeness. It has gotten me into so many tiffs from those less interested in etiquette. People always want to push and test you to see how advantageous your politeness can be to them.

ON WHAT OCCASION DO YOU LIE?
To avoid hurting other's feelings. I really have nothing to hide, my friends and associates do.

WHICH WORDS OR PHRASES DO YOU MOST OVER-USE?
"Exponetially","illustrates", "Actually, no...", "Prove it!", "Wikipedia is not a reliable source" and any emoticons.

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
To focus more.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT?
Winning the race to the egg. I'm so victorious!

WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO LIVE?
In the suburbs of Washington DC and in walking distance to my job.

WHAT IS THE QUALITY YOU MOST ADMIRE IN A MAN?
A backbone.

WHAT IS THE QUALITY YOU MOST ADMIRE IN A WOMAN?
Control of emotion, lack of cattiness, ORIGINALITY.

WHAT IS IT YOU MOST DISLIKE?
To be seen as an option. A sign that reads: 10 items or less.

WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN YOUR FRIENDS?
Loyalty, their own life, carry their own weight 90% of the time. (We all need a little help ^_^)

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO DIE?
Peacefully.

IF YOU WERE TO DIE AND COME BACK AS A PERSON OR AN ANIMAL, WHAT DO YOU THINK IT WOULD BE?
No idea.

IF YOU COULD CHOOSE AN OBJECT TO COME BACK AS, WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE?
No idea.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO (WORDS YOU LIVE BY OR THAT MEAN A LOT TO YOU)?
"People are so used to homogeneity that whenever they see an original they label it as fake. Just because you've never seen it doesn't mean it doesn't exist." -Ayesha

"I will never be a slave: not to hair, clothes, a job, love, nothing. My mind and conscience will always be free and subject only to the whims of God and myself." -Ayesha

WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?
I am simply a collage of the people I've met, divided by my experiences.

my room

2010-07-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

You can tell a lot about someone from their personal space. I am moving from my childhood room and it will never be the collection of treasures it once was again. Here are some snapshots I took while packing.

{ The descriptions are on the Flickr page, I would feel rather daft posting them in both places.}

Cree Summer - Savior Self

2010-07-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

I always listen to this song to remind me that saving myself is my responsibility. Not my parents, not my friends, not my educators, not my lover. They are too busy with their own struggles and goals... you must learn to be your own saviors. If you are looking for direction, redemption, peace or wholeness listen to these lyrics carefully.

east flatbush, battery park, rink bar & coney island

2010-07-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Friday:
That's what I did this weekend. Totally unrelated, on the bus I saw about 5 fawn frolicking and chasing each other! I'm still amazed by the little things. ^_^

Photo by: Dave Dyet (I was too busy pointing and nudging F. to snap my own picture)

The plan was to go to the flea market in Queens, Statue of Liberty and the Top of the Rock. We arrived in Flatbush maybe at midnight and stayed up talking until 3 AM, catching up with family and friends.

Saturday:
We were too tired to get up early enough to be flea market snipers so we headed to Battery Park. It was so cool, so pretty! I haven't been to NY enough to see the urban green spaces so I could have stayed there for a good hour watching the B-Boys pop locking and breaking in their neon animal print tights but we had to press on.

Apparently we were also too late to get to the Statue without waiting in an hour long line. I'm from DC, we don't wait in line, and we don't pay $20 to see landmarks! So I took a picture of the statue from a distance and on we went to 30 Rock.

On the way we passed ground zero where they discovered the boat from the 17th century. While they had a tan covering on it, I still took a shot of a worker peeking under the tarp:

Cool huh?

I so wanted to take pictures of an aerial NY but they also wanted $21.00 to go up. O_o... 20 bucks to ride an elevator? No way. Not ever. (Okay, maybe next time, but this time I've put my foot down!) So I took these awesome shots of the Joie Chandelier in the lobby, visited the giftshop and had a brownie sunday at the rink bar.

That was lovely! I would have had a spiked lemonade but there is nothing darling about sweating vodka across Manhattan. We then took a leisurely stroll around Christie's and looked at their interiors collection. I am sure I am good enough to have my work sell for $1200 a print, from what I've seen. I was certainly unimpressed by half of the offerings, which is not to say that I was underwhelmed at the curation and branding of the auction house, which was quite brilliant. Not to mention the frosty AC. One of my favorite features.

Then on a whim we decided to go to Coney Island. I tried to play it cool, but I had been dreaming about the Wonder Wheel for weeks now! We got Nathans, saw the music festival, saw boys jumping off the side of the pier then walked towards the rides. Alas, no one would ride with me but I finally saw them!

Another thing that was cool is I had a full on conversation with a baby while on the pier. He smiled and waved and so I proceeded to coo and indulge him. I love that children stop to talk to me for no obvious reason. That truly made my day! I would have taken a picture, but I'm sure the parents would have thought that quite odd. you know, some memories are nicer kept under the wraps of your own memory.

Sunday:
We rounded off the weekend with shopping on Flatbush. Oh, don't tell me you thought I was a high street kind of girl? I'll have to show you my thrifting Juijitsu one of these days! Of course I stopped past Dr. Jay's and got a flowy ruffle top for my next excursion in 2 weeks *crosses fingers and keeps mum*, some cool accessories and some tasty doubles and pholourie from Ram's Roti shop and a lemonade from Brooklyn Pizzeria. Yummy!
Alas, then it was time to head back to the house so that we could catch our bus back to the capital from 34th street. On the train Ms. T (a family friend who lives in NY) gave me two sun-dresses just because! I was so excited that I talked F.'s (the boyfriend) head off. He swiftly gave me cheese danish to hush me and so he could get a few winks of sleep. Gosh, I feel like I've done the same to you! Je t'aime New York et tu aussi!

xoxo

anthropologie's bow necklace

2010-07-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

So finally, the heavens are on my side regarding the bow necklace that was last week's project! I managed to snap a few shots of the finished necklace.

And some detail shots:

The bow is comprised of polished jasper

I searched my jewelry kit for gold chain, to no avail. I ended up reusing the beads from a "surfer" necklace I bought at Wetseal 5 years ago. It's quite nice and sparkly! The clasp is a fancy 24k closure.

I'm in a bit of a run, but I wont be back online until Monday and I didn't want to just run off without explanation. In the meantime there are some lovely links I'd like you to check out:

Art N Hustle has the sneak peek at an online shop that specializes in sweet and sassy bows
Gala Darling has her weekly Carousel of entertaining links up already
Garance Dore: Do you know her yet? She's brilliant.
Dujour Mag has a sweet decor board up

Okay loves, that's all from me today. Hope you enjoy your weekend! Remember, take lots of pictures :)

guess who's back?

2010-07-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

It's me! Yes, I'm sure you've gathered that by my previous postings but I'm back in business. Since the internet was down I started fiddling in photoshop - of course making more wallpapers for my phone:

I seemed to have been channeling Warhol this week, which is weird considering I find the Aesthetic movement my main inspiration. Well, I love the work he did with Chanel no.5 and started thinking, mon Cherie is just as beautiful and, dare I say, smells a thousand times lovlier than No.5. There, I said it. Even if it feels immensely sacrilegious to one of my style inspirations.

I adore my perfume "Cherie"! Did you know it had notes of caramel popcorn, cotton candy and violet? How they get those fragrances to work together is beyond me, but that explains why it's so lovely. It evokes childhood nostalgia in a cheeky way that is undeniably sexy. "Oops, is that sexy? I was totally going for innocent!" *giggles*

The ads all remind me of when I studied French abroad for my summer semester (the streets, fashion, food, attitude):

Which I will share a bit later! What are your favorite perfumes?

peace and grace: happy little reminders

2010-07-15T11:02:00.006-07:00

In an effort to cheer myself up I made a new pair of earrings!

I made them to remind myself that no matter what happens, no one can break your peace or your grace but yourself. I used turquoise because I (1) have lots of it (2) adore the silver and turquoise combination. It's very easy to make: just charms on the end of chain with an earring hook attached.

Now I have happy little reminders to be happy and grateful for what I *do* have.
xoxo

The media black out is too much

2010-07-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Lost in a world where the internet is disconnected by the beautiful thunderstorms, that's where I've been. It would be a farce to tell you this is not a stressful time but I feel like grace under fire. It's all swirling but it's calm. It's an ebb and flow. I've been such a flighty bore, I apologize, I declare!

I'm having housing, stipend and well... troubles in general but that wont keep me from smiling! I'm going to hop over and read some of Gala Darling's uplifting motivation. Care to join me?

weekend projects? maybe...

2010-07-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

I am truly a girlie girl. I believe in flowers, sparkly elements, big frilly dresses and lots of feminine details. If I weren't so irreverent when it came to style I'd probably be a quaintrelle. Alas, I don't have a calculated bone in my body - well I can try, but honesty spills over and creates problems. Therefore I am perfectly content with whimsically floating through life quite nomadically.

Another thing you've probably figured out: I love to craft! If given the right tools and materials I can re-create almost anything. I am currently perusing Anthropologie's website looking for jewelry to recreate since my budget is all maxed out this month. C'est une honte, aren't they just gorgeous?

I'm sure I have enough baubles in my stash to make some beautiful versions of these pieces. Of course owning the actual pieces would be better. I simply adore walking into an Anthropologie store: the smell of the delicately scented candles burning; the alluring, rustically feminine display and the beautiful grandiose dressing rooms! They are all so cathartic. Alas, books and food come first.

Speaking of crafts Lola, my latest blog crush, has adapted a tulle lampshade tutorial from Martha Stewart:

How can you resist all that sweetness? It's a lovely confection, so hop on over there to find out how to make one. Do take some time to click around her little slice because she's curated a beautiful collection of confectionery recipes.

Ooh, more pretty!

2010-07-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

You can probably tell I am incredibly addicted to personalizing my gadgets, especially my beloved iPhone. ^_^ So, I've made some new wallpapers and once again, thought it would be nice to share with anyone who happens upon my little slice of the internet. I truly hope you enjoy them! Don't be shy - if you need help installing them feel free to ask!

I have a few "getting to know me" posts planned a little later so please check back. If you're in the mood drop me a note, I love meeting new people!

afrodille

2010-07-08T20:11:00.001-07:00

Is my new favorite French word

... that's all. ^_^

jewels, baubles and found objects

2010-07-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Hello there!

Since I went back to the university it's been hard to find time to do my jewelry so I only do a bit here and there. This summer I have squirreled myself away for much needed reflection and recharging of my battery and I ~~have been able~~ needed to make things.

I finished the necklace a few months ago and finally finished the earrings last night. I collect shells and stones from my travels (these came from Ocean City, MD) so that I can create my own unique souvenirs.

Here are some closeups:

(freshwater pears, moonstone, glass, jasper and found seashells during my last retreat. All findings are silver.)

I am an avid lover of Disney Couture jewelry, being a big kid at heart, and ran across this last night:

O_O! I was shocked, awed, amazed. I felt naked, stalked! I can't believe they are so ridiculously close in design! Hmm... sounds like I need to put in an application for a designer's job there! ;)

During that same trip to ocean city I found about 20 shells that wanted to be made into jewelry, many with tiny holes on the top waiting to be strung.

This necklace is so simple and low-key. Feminine but not pretentious and can be dressed up or down. It's ethereal in a very down to earth way. It gets lots of wear in my wardrobe.

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On another note, if you follow me on tumblr, then you know how much I adore Peace Images. Well there was this darling agate hair accessory attached to a vintage comb

I wanted one in every color! Alas, I'm all loc'd up and there is no way a comb with those types of teeth can slide through one of them. However, I have 2 slabs of agate sitting around. (I love collecting stones and crystals) so I decided to make my own.

I reckon this will be darling as a centerpiece around a simple hairstyle. Please do click around Peace Images, her jewelry is lovely and creative!

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Well, that's all for me today. Here are some cool links to check out in my absence:

The Brown Girl Files
She is one of my favorite fashion bloggers. Her ensembles are so genuine, and uncalculated. I also love how her style is comfortable enough for editing and getting across the university plaza without looking like a schlep.

Dujour Magazine
They have the most wonderful magazine, I really must fork over the money for a subscription soon! Their website is full of fun ideas, DIYs and recipies. I wish I could live there! According to the tweetersation we had earlier there will be a DIY featuring tulle up this week. I am on the edge of my seat in anticipation!

xoxo

How was your weekend?

2010-07-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

Mine was pretty nice I stepped out to some great scribbles on the sidewalk

The heat was so oppressive this weekend that I spent most of it indoors hoping it were 10 degrees cooler so that I could enjoy the beautiful sunshine. I must have tanned 4 shades darker this summer - I acknowledge it is the last that will be so deliciously unspoken for.

We ended up pulling over to the side of the road to catch the national fireworks show which was pretty nice.

I have always been quite a chicken when it came to playing with fire and blowing things up but I really enjoy the long sparklers; they remind me of magic wands!

I know, my imagination is running away with me. ^_^

I managed to take a bit of video. My little point and shoot made me quite happy all weekend - trying it's best to capture the sparkly spectacle; I wanted to make sure my Mom got a glimpse of that!

Independence Day 2010 from Organicfairydust on Vimeo.

iphone Wallpaper

2010-07-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

I saw some wonderful ones over at From Me to You and got inspired by a friend to make my own.
Hope you like them!

DIY: Flower headbands

2010-07-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

After seeing the explosion of flower headbands online I was itching to make my own. They are simple to make and quite addicting!

Here's what you will need to make my version of these whimsical and trendy accessories:

Fake flowers (any dollar store variety will do)
fancy buttons, pom-poms, or anything else cute to stick in the middle
hot glue gun and/or needle and thread (try to pick thread in the same color family as your flower
Stretchy headbands (they look like xxl ponytail holders)

First you will need to separate the flower from it's plastic stem. Pull it straight up and away from your face. It's okay if the petals fall apart, we can reconstruct them later.
Heat your glue gun.
Run your button through the hole in the middle of the flowers. I cut off a piece of plastic stem to hold the button and fabric together as I worked. This way I didn't have to treat the flowers gingerly as I worked to secure the button.
Next tack the button to the headband using your needle and thread. Don't worry about making the stitch cute; make sure it's sturdy.
Your glue gun should be nice and hot by now. Snip off a leaf from the flower stem and apply hot glue. Apply to the back of the flower where you made your stitch. Work quickly to make sure the glue doesn't cool before making contact with your flower. This will keep your headband looking pretty from all angles and is more comfortable on your head.

Press down until the glue cools.
C'est fini! Take pictures and let me see you rocking your new headband because you're all done!

Please excuse the sweated out hair and look of exhaustion, it was Carnival after all! ^_^

Je vais rater mon Lynn soeur quand elle rentre à la maison.

2010-07-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the tidal basin this recent spring and she let me take hundreds of pictures with no complaints. Who's going to be my consignment buddy when she leaves? Who will I pontificate about unrequited love and cookie monster cupcakes with? There's always Skype I suppose.

DC Caribbean Carnival 2010

2010-07-01T11:55:00.001-07:00

Day 2

Seersucker Social and The Misadventures of Indian Pussy's exhibition

2010-06-10T06:46:00.001-07:00

I'm super excited about this Saturday because there are two incredible events happening! I'm totally giddy with excitement!

The first is the Seersucker Social which will feature a leisurely bike ride through Rock Creek park; everyone dressed in vintage ensembles. Then Everyone will meet back at Hillwood estates for food, drinks and performing arts. The crowd is totally laid back, although they are stunting hard in the video:

The Seersucker Social from Eric Brewer on Vimeo.

Check it out (that means you Eric): http://dandiesandquaintrelles.blogspot.com/

Secondly the infamous I.K.B aka Imani Brown, Pins-N-Needlez tattooing EXTRAORDINAIRE (google her baby!) is having a solo exhibition featuring the Misadventure's of Indian Pussy

I spent last weekend hanging out with the Artistic Sole family at the Graffitti Museum and this is truly a lovely swirl of creative sweethearts; not to mention there will be VERY dope art to witness. I can't wait!

Holiday

2010-06-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

I love finding the green spaces scattered around the city. It's so fulfilling to find a secret garden in the middle of an urban landscape; suddenly outing becomes a holiday. I came across such a place last week.

Making a screen

2010-06-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

When my honey got his own place I was ceremoniously given a bit of space to stash my glitters and crystals in the closet. However, there are a few things in girlfriend queendom that should remain secret as to maintain the seemingly effortless beauty that I love to portray. So, to hide my clutter and to hide my ingénue enhancing tools I created a screen; it was very easy to make out out found objects.

Materials:

Pictures on cardboard or foam board
Stiff paper (preferably black to fade into recesses and allow your images to shine)
Glue stick (an optional stapler)

Process:

1.) Choose your photographs. Be sure to measure how many you will need to cover the width of your shelf.

2.) Add photos to card or foam board. I used a glue stick for adhesive. I also used the back of an old notebook for the cardboard. I am all about re-purposing!

3.) Cut 1 sheet of paper in half and form a zig-zag shape. I stapled two strips together to achieve my desired width. Then I applied the photos using the same glue stick that I mentioned before.

That’s all! Now I have a cute screen to hide all my pigments and unorganized jewelry parts.

I adore my bottle of perfume so I allowed it to peek out for a bit of glamour. My mother is such an angel for gifting it to me ^_^. Hope you like the screen. If you have a go at it make sure you share a link to it. Happy crafting!