Remember the Time - Throwback Saturday!

Today, I felt like reaching back and watching a feel-good video. That's why I'm calling this my throwback Saturday.

How many of you remember this video by Michael Jackson? I will never forget the first time I saw it. I wasn't conscious of holding my breath until we were a few seconds in. For me, it truly was breathtaking, and to see so many familiar faces --I loved it! It was like a mini-movie. To our knowledge, this type of thing hadn't really been done before then.

I even Remember the Time that my sister, I, and our girlfriends, tried to get the steps. It was our thing to hang out on a Saturday, shopping, preparing to go to the club; whatever. This time we wanted to have the steps just right, hopefully before anyone else. Silly, huh? We didn't care. We were so excited, we recorded the video. We ran it back and back, time and time again. We stood before the mirror, practicing. It was so much fun. We'd watch the one who did a move just right. Then we'd try it. We'd bump into someone, or occasionally step on a foot. We'd sing along, We would even double over in a fit of laughter. We'd drink something cool, then it was, "Let's do it one more time." That was back in the day. It was what we did. As blossoming young women, we didn't have the adult worries and woes that we do now. We had hope, for the future, for the world, and we had joy. We had youth and smarts on our side.

Watching this video brought some of that joy back. It made me smile. The music made me want to get up and try those steps all over again. When I watched this video, it reminded me of how every day I carry my girls -- who all happen to be formidable women now -- in my heart.

I hope you watch this video. I hope you feel just a bit of what I felt, then and now.

Welcome to my th'owback Saturday, y'all! Thanks for letting me share a memory. You know it's what I sometimes do.

Luh U.

Luh Dat Man - An Ode to Prince

Hello Friends and Fam,

I haven't gotten with you in a long time. Yet knowing me as some of you do, you are aware that I never stop writing. You know too that sometimes life takes over, preventing me from blogging as much as I should or could. However, today I just had to get with you. Actually, I've been meaning to for a few days.

As of this writing, the world knows that we recently lost our iconic musical genius, our diminutive demigod, the unparalleled artist known as . . .Prince. Due to this loss, millions of people are deeply saddened. Why? Because we luh dat man, present tense, although he is now gone.

Listen, on the day that we lost him I had someone say to me, "People die; what is the big deal?"

What is the big deal?! I had to consciously breathe. Slowly. Now I must explain.

Prince Rogers Nelson was not just another singer, lyricist, performer, guitarist, or musician. He wasn't your ordinary patron of the arts, philanthropist, or music mentor, either. He was the height of those things, and then some. To his die hard fans he was the ultimate. It was the reason we followed him through his many evolutions -- from the late seventies until 2016. 

When he wasn't in the public eye, as his true fans we eagerly awaited his return. To paraphrase his song, Call My Name we knew it had only been three hours, but without him we felt like we just might have gone insane. We felt that way because...we luh dat man, and we did for a plethora of reasons, a few of which I will try to encapsulate right here, right now.

Why we loved that man:

Reason # 1

He was just so darn aesthetically appealing. Eye-candy, he was pleasing to look upon. Forever fashionable, he was a vision, from his beautiful and ever-changing mane, to his gorgeous guy-lined beautiful brown doe eyes. Who could forget his pretty pucker, those magic hands, or that lithe body that he kept so tight and trim? And the way he wielded his guitar, the consummate phallic symbol; need I say more?   

Reason # 2

He was unbelievably sensual, and he knew it. To paraphrase him again, in a word, [he was] sex. He wasn't only sexy of body, but in mind. The former was how he hooked us. The latter was how he reeled us in, and kept us his willing and captivated audience. And talk about his prowess as a musician; how he could make a guitar weep! No wonder he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Then he had an arsenal of primal sounds, the likes of which you'd be hard-pressed to hear another man utter. Hearing it would just raise goose flesh. As a woman, I will just go on and say it: he was sexy -- as sexy as I am. Mind you now, for most women, there just aren't enough men we want to say that about. 

Reason # 3

We loved him because he said the things many men find hard to say. Perhaps some find it tough to articulate certain sentiments because to them it is foreign. Or maybe some are not as in touch with their soulful side as we would like them to be; I do not know. I only know that our beautiful Prince wooed us. Cerebral, as women are, he understood our most important unspoken rule. We need to hear the words, and often. You see that's why he could say Let's Go Crazy and so many of us wholeheartedly went, shedding clothing as we did. 

Reason # 4

He was fearless. As a writer, that was the quality I prized most. I believe that lack of fear, or pushing past it, enabled him to elevate his songwriting to the level of art form. Those of you who know more than just his commercialized works understand where I'm coming from. He often allowed whatever he felt to flow. I imagine it coursed through him, thereby giving us lyrics, guitar licks, and the imagery in song of which we could never have dreamed.

That fearlessness was inspiring. It gave me the courage to write the type of books I write. His audacity gave me the pluck to write this to you today. That was the gift he gave; if it happened, it found its way into one of his songs, into the studio, then ultimately onto the stage that he so masterfully commanded.

Reason # 5

We loved that man because he was spiritual, and he didn't try to conceal it. He was on a quest, and his thirst for knowledge would not be quenched. Wanting to know things, he avidly sought the divine. He did not want to know someones Grandma's God, alone, he wanted more. This led him to fervently pursue  deity. As a result he allowed deified creativity to flow through him. Thus, he could move millions to tears, to near-frenzy, worship, or to any emotional level or combination in between.

Reason # 6

He was philanthropist, one who gave untold sums to charities and grassroots initiatives. Many times he did so on the hush, minus the fanfare that so many narcissistic celebrities seek. It was his desire to see children educated so that they could in turn grow up and become college graduates or successful in other areas of life. Although his causes were many, he never forgot individuals. When they least expected it, he would surprise the unsuspecting with much needed aid. He had a heart for people. He mentored scores of musicians. It was also his belief that even those deemed terrible offenders could be reformed.

Reason # 7

We loved him because he was knowledgeable. He was aware of things going on in the world surrounding him. He kept abreast of politics. He spent time with and was often interviewed by some of the greatest minds of our time. Proving he wasn't all fluff, when he chose to, he could hold his own, articulating particular points of view in the most viable and straight forth manner. 

For some, nothing is as big a turn-on as one who is willing to learn and grow mentally. A smart man? Who doesn't love one, especially that man who isn't arrogant about it, but just wants to drop a little knowledge when he can? Who doesn't love a brotha who can talk till the wee hours, and yet enthrall while speaking on any and every thing?

Those of us of a certain age can remember landlines, and late night marathon phone sessions. Those are the times Prince took us back to, when he so chose -- rappin' till the sun came up. . . Remembering these types of things are one of the reasons some of us are reeling, and still feeling like we did back in the day. We know others think it is time, time to let go, but we can't. We can hardly bear to do so without (to quote him again) tears of joy falling down on us. 

However, in knowing that our lovely Prince has transitioned, we must remember what he said. We shouldn't waste any more prayers.

Sure, we're not ready to disconnect, not from him, because we would still like to hold him, in our hearts and minds. We want to hear his voice, see his image, and gaze upon his likeness in concert just one more time.

Why? For all the reasons above and more. 

Simply put: we luh dat man, 

and

Adore him we will . . . 

Until the end of time.

I had to say bye-bye to my boy...

I've got to tell you who are pet owners, I've had a rough few days...and now I am a bit saddened. I had to say bye-bye to my boy. We had to put my cat, Sparky, to sleep. (That's him relaxing on my lap during happier times.) 'The Sleep' was our last option. My little boy was ill with no chance of recovering. I'd prayed, took him to the vet, and did everything I could. Yet his insides were failing.

I recalled that last year about this time, we were in a similar cycle. However, after a stay at the vet and with us implementing a different diet, he recovered. We got to spend one more wonderful year with him. Thinking on that, and how Sparky -- whom others had abandoned as a kitten -- barged into our lives one waning summer afternoon, a sweet peace filled me up inside. That was when I knew, of a surety, that it was time. We had to let go.

I drove to the vet's office and held him and told him of all the joy that he'd brought. With my throat aching, I whispered through tears that he would soon run free, on another plane, minus the little body that was ill. Then it became very liberating to watch him just drift off. I just had to be there at the end. Sure, it was painful; I'd seen another woman on the pet hospital patio bent over and crying her eyes out as a man tried to comfort her. Looking back, now I know she must have had as hard a decision to make as I did.

I also wondered, why can't we do something similar for our human loved ones when they reach the point of no return? To all you euthanasia haters DO NOT WRITE me. One: today, I don't want to hear/see/read it. And Two, I'm just doing the equivalent of thinking aloud. So again I say, let this one go.

One good thing did come of that hurtful experience though. We got to meet Dr. Josh, D.V.M. He was informative and patient and so very comforting. He and the other pet staff members there are truly the best.

I have since realized that when the time comes for us as humans, God will easily receive us too -- doesn't matter how we exit.

Well my darlings, I sincerely thank you for being here for me today. In parting I must say that I will always cherish the memory of my little Sparky. He had such a sparkling personality -- thus his name. Although he is gone, I am so grateful that my precious pet entered my life.

April

Beyond Forty and Fabulous

You too can be beyond forty and fabulous. "What do you mean?" and "How?" You might ask. Well, there once was a time when a woman approaching her late thirties would begin to balk. Why? for the simple fact that she knew that the big 4 0 was looming.

 

Now days though, many women don't succumb to that notion. We realize that our twenties are the years of discovery. During that time we often enter the workforce and begin to carve out our place in the world. Then  the age of thirty and above brings change. We no longer have to  strive so hard to cause people or institutions to take us seriously, perhaps because by this time we've got a few achievements to our credit. Then bam! We're fabulously forty and beyond...

 

These I deem the opportunity years. I say so because by this time, we are complex multi-faceted individuals who resist the notion of getting older and beginning a downward spiral. Conversely, we know that we are getting better. Therefore, it is onward and upward! Often pushing forty, and beyond, we have left mindless frivolity behind. We find ourselves building something -- a  life, a portfolio, perhaps even a legacy. We have been, and have yet to go many places. By this time we are at least willing to think about trying something new, something that may even reside outside our comfort zone.

 

By forty and beyond, we may also have learned another language. Or like a few fab female friends of mine, we may have obtained a license for, and have learned to ride our very own motorcycles. Perhaps we parasail,  mix the perfect drink, or we just might be that sister who gives great party. Beyond forty, we have experienced enough to know ourselves, our likes and dislikes. We know others too; we are no longer naive girls just waiting for someone to 'pull the wool over our eyes.'

 

As women who are beyond forty and fabulous we have learned to trust our instincts, as well as temper our hearts -- we don't get carried away with every whim. We have distinctive tastes, and our own unique sense of style. We have opinions, and we know we don't have to always keep them to ourselves. Beyond forty and fab women are aware that we are oh so sexy and intellectual in tandem. We don't desire to look teenaged or twenty. In fact, the majority of us would not re-take the journey to get here; it was just too hard. However, we can acknowledge that along the way, we achieved and learned priceless things/lessons.

Beyond forty and fabulous women often have tried-and-true skin care regimens. We've got confidence and style. We're young at heart, and in so many ways we are endlessly formidable. In a world, my darlings, we are impressive -- to say the least; think Tyra, Hillary Clinton, Nia Long, Jill Biden, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Degeneres, Queen Latifah, Selah ward, Halle Berry, Kelly Ripa, Whoopi Goldberg, Diane Sawyer, Alice Walker, Danielle Steele, Robin Roberts, Lisa Ling, Iman, Beverly Johnson, Judy Dench, Roshumba, Sally Field, our late great sage, Maya Angelou... The list is endless!

I don't want men to feel left out. However, I simply happen to be speaking to my ladies right now, but men, we love you just the same. If you happen to be a fab beyond forty woman -- or even a man -- hit me up. Show me some love by giving me a like, or by leaving a comment. Hey, let's show the world, the fabulous beyond forty folk are a nation and not just a fateful few. And since that is the case, I believe advertisers and politicians need to take us into consideration a bit more, because indeed we have enormous buying as well as voting power.

For those of you that have yet to join this wonderful sisterhood, (and brotherhood), just know that all of the above are only a smidgen of what you have to look forward to. In parting, I can truly say what has been said for years: beyond forty truly is fabulous!

I will speak with you soon.

This post is lovingly dedicated to the memory of my fabulous Aunt Kitty.

April

 

Embracing One's Self

Loving one’s body, and mind -- employing self-love is embracing one’s self.  That said; as modern people, we are often bombarded from every side by the media. It hits us with messages that say we are not enough -- not tall enough, or thin enough, not light enough, or tan or bronzed or black enough. The message sometimes is we’re not young, hip, or smart enough either.

Then if that’s not the case,  we may wind up receiving the same  message, but in reverse. We are too much. We are much too loud, too big --we're obese, or we're too old or too boisterous. It can even be suggested that we are much too under -- or over -- qualified. Wow! All of these mixed messages can weigh heavily on a person’s mind, whether or not they know it.

To tell you the truth, all of these mixed messages are the anti-thesis of embracing ourselves. They can even cause many to suffer from the misguided perception that they should become something more or something less. Then due to  this constant bombardment, one might slowly begin to pick themselves apart. They may begin with their skin, or their eye or hair color.

If this is where you find yourself, STOP. Right now. Choose to silence every voice of negativity.

Whenever you look at print ads or any type of media image, remember one thing.
Most of that slick glossy sh—well, that smooth but superficial hype is generated.  When you see a photo of someone who appears unbelievably unflawed, refuse that notion. Remind yourself that it takes teams of people to create the images that sometimes wreak havoc in the minds of real everyday people.

Remember that there are handlers, trainers, photographers, hair and makeup artists, as well as lighting specialists. There are wardrobe people, and stylists -- not to mention the computer whiz-kids who digitally work diligently on the very photos that can leave an everyday viewer’s self-esteem in tatters.

Friends and fam, today I remind you, and myself, that we cannot possibly live up to enviable media images. However, we can embrace ourselves. We can invest in ourselves, in things that will increase our joy, and our self worth. We can also get off the dizzying carousel of frivolous spending. We can keep or attain good credit.

We can choose to be grateful for what we already have, and quit seeking excess. We have our bodies and our minds, which we can nurture. We can offer ourselves more of what we need. If it’s sleep, or water, or healthier food choices, we should do that. If we need to make different or better choices in friends, we can do so. If someone brings us down, lose them -- quickly. Although we can’t pick our family, we can devise methods of dealing with those members whose only goal is to push all our buttons.

We can take time to deeply breathe. We can seek out people and experiences that empower.  And we do not have to prolong encounters with pesky neighbors or acquaintances. We can also choose clothing and footwear that comfortably fits. We can seek moments of contemplation and times for solitude. We can do this to regenerate, re-charge, and re-connect, with ourselves and our God. Then we can do something for someone else.  

My darlings, let us embrace ourselves for the multitude of things that we are, and forget the things that we are not. Look forward , to all that we have yet to become.

In parting, as always, I want you to live blessed. Ah, and today, don’t allow anyone to steal your joy!

April

 

How Not To Look Old – I'm Reviewing the book

Written by Charla Krupp, the book  How Not To Look Old is chock full of fast and effortless ways to
look 10 years younger, 10 pounds lighter, and 10 times better -- exactly what it says on the cover. 254 pages, this guide begins with aging gracefully. Not.  

 

Actually, the author speaks candidly about how aging can be a hard pill to swallow. She speaks of how women can discover things that seemingly pop up overnight -- like age spots, crow's feet, chin hair, sagging bazooms, and bunions! But don’t be alarmed, she says we can do something about those things and others. She also states we can look great doing so. 

So there I was, reading about the author’s proposed plan of attack on aging, and becoming more interested by the minute. That was because Charla advises us not to join those poor souls who have had entirely too many surgical procedures. Caught in the author's silken word web, I read that she had even tested goo-gobs of beauty products. Many of them are on prominent magazine's 'best of' lists. However, there was a catch. For the author to recommend any item, it had to deliver results, be easy to use, and not exorbitantly priced. I liked that.

Turning pages, I found that quickly I read all nineteen chapters -- which have great, simple, and often quirky titles like 'Unmatch Your Wardrobe' or 'Follow the Three-Bling Rule...' and I’ve got to tell you, there were times when I just burst out laughing! This author, editor, and motivational guru simply tells it like it is. Without sugarcoating stuff that we all face, she offers the old ways of achieving a look versus the new way -- which is most often her way, but that's okay. 

After finishing the book, I read a review of it and instantly knew those scathing words had been written by someone who was disillusioned. [Bitter was more like it.] The reviewer believed Charla Krupp advised readers to put themselves in categories, low, high, or no maintenance, and then spend accordingly. However, that is not what I took away from this book. I felt the same way another reader/reviewer did, like most of the suggestions offered happen to be things we most likely already know. Still, before reading the book we may not have been putting them into practice.  

For example, ridged, filthy or even discolored fingernails are a no-no. They need care. Like broken and stained teeth, they are not attractive and can diminish aspects of our appearance. Quite simply put, they make us look unprofessional and slovenly – my words. 

My darling beautiful friend,  

if you don't want to wind up looking like an old crone; if you want to laugh, or if you just want a little entertainment and fun while getting some really good tips from someone who has been everywhere in the beauty industry, then read this book. There are a heap of full-color photos -- some of multi-ethnic celebrities. There are anecdotes too. There are size guides, and tips to try. There are suggestions on shopping for just about anything female. So do enjoy.

As many of you who read me know, I always look for the pros as well as the cons. Yet with this book it was all pro. I found nothing that I would change. I simply thank the author and her staff for their time. I mean, to write a book is no simple task. As the author of good fiction I know. [Shameless plug for me, right? Hey, I’ve gotta do it. :) ] Anyway, I thank the author for her time and effort. I thank my library too, for initially loaning the hardcover to me. And now I’m grateful that there was bookseller to sell it to me. Perhaps one day soon you too will thank one or all of these people. 

Well...until next time my darlings, happy reading!

April

Are you super-duper fine?

Someone is always suggesting we enhance or modify our look or something else about ourselves. Others suggest we change, become, or act like someone or something else. Every season, manufacturers of cosmetics and clothing tell consumers that updating is necessary. However, I wonder, aren’t we already fine as we are? I believe so because it is not what we wear, the things that we acquire, or even the things that we hope for that make us beautiful, and worthy. Who we are -- our inner being -- is what makes us shine. I truly believe that.

I happened to read a book on beauty and in it were lovely photos of women like Jada Pinkett Smith, Pam Grier, Cameron Diaz, and Salma Hayek to name a few. The thirty or so celebrated women in the book were interviewed. Each was asked to give her definition of beauty. Although the answers varied, there was a common thread. Every woman, considered beautiful in her own way, stated that beauty was a belief, a state of mind. Each said in her own unique voice that beauty, to her, was a kind of knowing that causes a woman to glow. 

Many of the women also spoke of the double standard. We often hear that as men age, they look more distinguished. However, as women age, we are bombarded with the idea that we should change. We even receive subliminal messages. They whisper that fine lines and gray hair are unacceptable. It is suggested that we slide under a surgeon’s knife, to correct our ‘flaws.’ In the book though, renowned singer / songwriter Joni Mitchell offered something that caused me to smile. She said that sometimes a surgically altered look nullifies the character in a woman’s face. She said that afterward others can no longer see how the woman has lived, how much she has laughed or cried. I liked that statement the moment I read it! 

Don’t get me wrong. I believe to change one’s look is fine—if that is something a woman has chosen to do. However, I do not believe we should be pressured into anything.  If your skin is supple, or if it has the capability to be, then why not be grateful? If you like your hair, or lack thereof, then you are already fine. If you are a woman who adds extensions, or wears wigs, weaves, colorful scarves, or hats, for whatever your personal reason, then you could already be fine. Do your brown or other colored eyes serve you, and keep you from walking into walls—even if to do so you must wear contact lenses or glasses? Then you too are most likely fine.  

Is your inner woman someone worth knowing? Is she compassionate, or maybe even passionate? Have you taken up a cause? If you believe in something, or if you’re on an eternal quest, is that not something to be proud of? Do you listen well; or maybe you’re the woman who tells fantastic jokes and captivating stories--like me. Maybe you write poetry, or songs, or take fab photos. You might be a momma, a lover -- jilted, or still in. You could be baker, a quilter, a painter, a teacher, a seamstress, a preacher, or even a dreamer… Perhaps you’re the one who figures things out. If you're basically happy with you and if you can achieve then I say you're just fine. If you've done something that you can be proud of, or if you have encouraged someone else to take a leap of faith then you are already fine.

 

If someone loves you, even if it is only your mother, or your cat or dog; if you can clean up nicely, or not; if you can, or cannot recall a time when you’ve looked hot; if you, my lovely, are any of these things and more, then you are quite possibly already fine. So as Billy Joel's song says, 'Don't go changing...'  

Remember, it matters not what others suggest…the choice to enhance or update, to be or not to be is up to you, and you alone, because you are, in my opinion…already super-duper fine.

 

Until next time, shine brightly my darlings, shine brightly!

 

April

 

You need the right bra, plain and simple.

Don't be confused, you need the right bra.

Did you know that a bra can be one of the most important pieces in a woman’s shapewear arsenal? Not only does it re-shape but it can even re-size, and this is important because drooping bazooms can make one look slouchy, or old. 

I'm telling you this because I don’t want you to be in the dark.  I'm also saying the right bra can create an enchanting, smooth and youthful silhouette, no matter what your size or age. The right one can cause you to appear pounds thinner, but most of all, wearing the right bra can elevate a woman’s confidence. Then you can go get that job, confidently make the team, or stand before that audience and proudly address the issue at hand.

To read more, click April's Bras Sense...

You ever heard somebody sing a song you've heard a thousand times? Yet there's that one time when the song or the song-stylist makes you do a double-take. Well, I had that experience not long ago and I had to quickly turn my head. I had to ask --with emphasis-- "Who was that?"

In my opinion, it takes a special kind of artist to do that; to just make a person stop in their tracks. Young Whitney Houston did it, back in the day. And Jaimee Paul happened to do it for me the
other day.

There I was, seated with my coffee at hand, just merrily typing away when the song 'Cry Me A River' came wafting through my speakers. Now I've long loved this song, especially Natalie
Cole's version. However, after the intro I started paying real attention, because this lady who was not Natalie has something. Many might call it the 'It' factor. I would go further and say that 'something' is the meeting of talent and skill -- and songstress Jaimee Paul has it.

So I looked her up. With her look that happens to be reminiscent of old Hollywood -- you know, the ruby red-slicked lips, the curly mane, and alabaster skin -- she appears quite commercial. Yet what I love are her rich vocals. After reading up on her, it appears  she's been wowing audiences in many places. Now her voice is wowing me.

Because I do so enjoy her renditions of great American standards, I'd like to share one with you.

My darlings I do hope you enjoy it as I did. If you get a chance,
check out her cover or Lover Man on her At Last album/CD. Let me know what you think, and until next time...

Be blessed,

April

Could You Be A Bully?

I was reading the account of the bus monitor, a grown woman who was taunted by kids on the bus where she was supposed to maintain order. Boy were the kids cruel! Many people asked why the woman took it. Well, there could be a host of reasons. Those I don't particularly want to discuss right now.

I do want to say that those who have never experienced the cruelty that is bullying may not realize something... Bullying does not only happen to children. Granted, it is not something that is spoken of as often as the cruelty that children, adolescents and teenagers experience at the hands of their peers. However, it does go on.

How many of us are consciously aware that adults can be bullies?  Not only do they push children and pets around, they often bully other adults. 

Big question; how to tell if you're a bully?

• If you're going up to your kid's school to jump on the teacher, before you have all the facts, you just may be a bully. You might also be one if you do this to the coach or other parents in the PTA.
• If you're a person who is self-righteous and believe there is no right way but your way, then you may be a bully.
• If you're a person who verbally browbeats others into submission, then perhaps you too fall in the bully category.
• If you're someone who hides behind your pc or other electronic device while you spew undeserved evil at or about others, think about it. You're probably a bully, and a cowardly one at that.
• If you're the person on the job that always keeps snippets of gossip going, and you're the one always holding court, sitting in judgment of your co-workers, guess what?
• Even if you're a grandma, one who has nothing nice to say about your underlings, those family members who rate lower in the family hierarchy than you, and you wield your power against them, Granny, you are a bully.
• If you're the neighborhood watch person and you police people, for little or no reason, just because you can, you --window watcher-- are most likely a bully.

There are other scenarios, but now I ask how can you change? Do you even want to? Perhaps you like who you are. If you don't, the first step to reforming is to take a good look at what you are
doing. Ask yourself why? Are you gaining anything positive from it? In the pursuit of being better if you cannot truthfully answer yes, or say that you've gained a sense of peace and satisfaction from browbeating others then it's time for a change. Don't you think?

The Avoiding Friends App

This morning while checking the news, I had to laugh. I noticed that there is now an app to help people avoid others, particularly their Foursquare friends. For those who don't know, Foursquare is a location-based social networking website for mobile devices. It helps people find out what great places are near whatever location they happen to be in.

I love that this app for avoiding others is aptly named 'Hell Is Other People.'

I've got to say, this should work for someone who recently broke up with a partner or a spouse. Wouldn't want to run into them --all cozied up with the person they dumped you for, now would you? And who wants to crouch down in the car outside the cleaners until someone else leaves. This app might even work for someone who would love to be a hermit. You know those people I'm talking about, the ones who are perpetual sour-pusses. Some of us even work with them, the man or woman who despise speaking to us in the morning in the office.

--Hey, too bad this thing won't work in your office! If it did that might be cool, because then those of us who want to know could see where the boss is at all times. LOL

As I start my day, I'm thinking what will they come up with next? This app/idea is cool though --if you need this sort of thing, because it calculates the best locations in which you might avoid certain friends. Heck, on those days when I'm having a bad hair day and just feeling all around busted, I would probably think of using it too.

Until next time, enjoy your day...and be blessed.

April

Brides Fighting Breast Cancer

Since June is typically wedding month, and since the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Walk is coming up, I thought I would revisit an article I once wrote. . .

While watching 'My Fair Wedding' with David Tutera, this man whom I adore mentioned something I thought I’d discuss with you. David spoke of an organization that not only helps brides find the wedding dress of their dreams, it also contributes to programs that aid cancer patients, as well as their families.

The organization is called Brides Against Breast Cancer and they have bridal shows all over the U.S.   At these shows, many people whose lives have been affected by breast cancer can find information and other resources. These things empower them in their battle. Another important aspect is that Brides Against Breast Cancer hosts fund-raising events; this is done in the form of thirty or more shows a year. At these events called the Nationwide Tour of Gowns™ any bride-to-be can find the gown of her dreams, even tiaras and crinoline -- at truly unbelievable prices! 

I actually think it is wonderful that the Brides program has received upwards of 50,000 wedding gowns. These were donations. The resale value of these gowns has been estimated at over 4 million dollars. National coverage in magazines like Redbook and Woman’s Day has helped make this possible.

I'll tell you something else. More than fifty percent of these beautiful gowns are donated by bridal retailers, designers and manufacturers. Many of their couture and designer gowns are new, and some can sell for as high as twenty thousand dollars, retail. However, Brides Against Breast Cancer offers them at incredible prices so that the proceeds can contribute to programs for patients and their families.

Now here is how you too can help. . . Brides Against Breast Cancer  needs contemporary gowns; they need the donation of slips and veils too, all dating from 2007 up until today. I mustn't forget to mention this. . .  Every gown that arrives will be carefully prepared for sale at the upcoming Brides Against Breast Cancer Nationwide Tour of Gowns™. Therefore, do something wonderful. Donate, by going to their website. Simply click on the 'Gown Donations' tab.

For those of you who have lovely vintage gowns and accessories, don't be disheartened. You will also get a chance to contribute. A while ago, Brides had asked people to simply hang onto their prized possessions until they were able to add it to their extensive inventory. You'll have to check to see when these classics are needed. These things they post on their cute national website.

Men, we love you; therefore, you can help too! Brides has a Pink Envelope Project™. This can be any event, fundraiser, or party that someone hosts --you can give money. (Smile)Book Clubs can even turn one of their meetings into a Pink Envelope project. You see, the goal is simply to raise funds for Brides Against Breast Cancer dot org. All they ask is that you use their pink envelopes for the donations gathered. The information is on their website. So why not incorporate the Pink Envelope into your next function!

I've got a name for those who donate. I call them Brides besties, and if after reading this, you’re thinking about becoming one, do drop me a line. Let me know! I love to hear from readers. I'm sure others would like to see your note as well.

My darlings, I've got to run. However let me say this. As an advocate of marriage --for everyone, I say to those of you getting married soon and those in the midst of planning a wedding, I wish you all the best! Ladies… don’t be a Bridezilla, unless you’re on the show. Then, by all means... LOL

To donate a wedding gown or host a Pink Envelope™ event, please visit the Brides Against Breast Cancer website.

I will see you soon.

Be blessed,

April