Cover

WAKE UP! It's time to throw back the covers, plant your feet on the floor, stand up, and look around. Sleeping too long can cause you to rush out of bed and overlook important signs. Are you the only one sleeping with your man? It may be time to blow the cover and see the situation in its bare nakedness; and either check your man or milk it for what it's worth.

While the interest in relationships seems to have disintegrated to hell, the belief and act of committed relationships and the adherence to marriage vows seem to disappearing along with it. It's 2011; technology is progressing, but people aren't socially or emotionally. People are still afraid to show, express, and stand up for who they really are. The DL (Down-Low) life is so old and stale, I just knew it wasn't relevant; but, it somehow morphed into a 'politically-correct-homosexual-all-encompassing' "men who sleep with men." Now, it seems to me, a majority of the men (and other men like them) who were sheepishly using that description are now describing themselves as "straight," but still engaging in not-even-close-to-straight (sexual) behavior and activities.

Ladies, I'm going to help you out...these are your boyfriends and your husbands; many of whom, I'm sure, if you're paying attention to them have some (remote) idea or inclination as a lot of these men aren't as concealed as they believe themselves to be. Ideas to ponder and look for: Is he hard to reach when you're out of town, randomly going places with "one of the boys" at odd times, have a new best male friend appear out of nowhere, or have a close male friend who's wife/girlfriend you've never met (or who's wife/girlfriend you end up spending more time with than you want because the men are always putting the two of you together)? It may be time to get rid of the cover. I see and hear about this stuff far too often; it's sickening and maddening. Many of these men are smart with their slickness but aren't smart enough to know the difference between "discreet" and "discrete." Discreet is now synonymous with deceit, dishonesty, and drama. Neither of which I do or tolerate.

So...COVER, or better yet: what's going on underneath [no punctuation mark]; I'm leaving it open so you can decide for yourself: 1) Is there something going on underneath? 2) Something is going on underneath. Which ever you decide, the "cover" has been on too long and the time has come to blow the top and see the situation in its bare nakedness; act now...before something hits home. It may not be your man keeping you warm at night; but, instead, something from your man..

Ladies, get your girls together; it's time for a movie night! Pop some corn and gather around the couch with a few bottles of wine. The movie to see if Bill Duke's "Cover." Marriage. Betrayal. Secrets...and Lies.



To those men who are hating on me and disliking what I've written about this craziness, I say screw you. If you're man enough to like dick, you should be man enough to live up to it and come out of the closet. No one's holding you back but yourself.

Easter Hors d'œuvre: Spicy BBQ Lobster Deviled Eggs

Nothing spells Easter like a Fourth-Sunday Sunrise Service Fashion Show at church and an Easter Egg Hunt. Until today! Considering I didn't get in bed until 5am, I didn't see me making it to any body's 6am Sunrise Service, but don't worry...Whitney Houston did 'take me to church' (i.e., "I Love The Lord," "He's All Over Me," "I Go to the Rock") during a private service --- I mean, concert. It's widely known that I don't have any kids (and how I feel about that situation) and Easter Hunts are not my thing; therefore, I didn't see me sitting around dyeing any eggs. So, to fix my eggs for Easter needs...I decided to do deviled eggs to go with my dinner.

I wanted to try something different from my usual sinfully delicious deviled egg recipe, so I got resourceful and creative. The results? Some deviled eggs that are out-of-this-world-Imma-bout-to-smack-a-few-peoples-mamas goooood! And because I am not stingy (and because it's been requested), here's the recipe. Now, don't hurt yourself or anyone else...and prepare to get your finger-licking on!

Side note: I'm assuming everyone knows the basic principles of making deviled eggs, so I didn't give detailed instructions on how to do every step. If I have to describe how you boil an egg or slice an egg in preparation for deviled eggs (and forbid I have to tell you to peel the hard-boiled egg), we may have to fight.

SPICY BBQ LOBSTER DEVILED EGGS

Ingredients:

1 doz large hard-boiled eggs

2 tbsp fresh parsley

2 tbsp chopped scallions

1 tbsp cilantro

2 tbsp chopped chives

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1/3 c canola mayonnaise

1 tbsp hot pepper sauce

8 oz chopped lobster/crab meat

2 tbsp mesquite smoke bbq sauce

Salt & pepper (to taste)

1 tsp red pepper flakes

Pinch cayenne pepper & chili powder

Paprika

Directions:

Slice the dozen hard-boiled eggs in half; lengthwise. Mash the hard-boiled egg yolks in a bowl. Add next 12 ingredients to bowl with egg yolks. Mix together. Fill the halved egg whites with the yolk mixture (a teaspoon full works perfectly). Sprinkle each filled egg white half with paprika. Refrigerate for at least two hours; then serve.

HAPPY EASTER!

Cherish

Life is precious. Life is valuable. Life is not always kind, but Life is what we make of it.

Why is it that we as a people in today's world get lost in the hustle and bustle of daily nonsense, technology advancement, and career and social over- drive/kill; yet we never take time to indulge in and enjoy the priceless presents we are blessed to receive during our lifetime? Family, friends, lovers, sensational coworkers, love (in general and romantic terms), priceless moments, and random acts of kindness ... all precious gifts in life, yet we never seize the opportunity to enjoy the present (as in present time). As the saying goes, "Life is a gift; enjoy the present."

Given today's society where things (fatal things; life-changing things) can happen in an unexpected and unplanned instance, I'm amiably trying to encourage folks to take time to enjoy and appreciate the gifts of life and to cherish those moments and times where we're happy and filled with bliss. Yes, those vary moments we often overlook and regret once all opportunities are forever taken away from us. Cherish and enjoy each second to the maximum capacity; as that could be the last second you ever get to experience that happy moment.

Stop procrastinating! No putting off for tomorrow what can be done today (tomorrow may never make it to today). No more putting trivial and professional before personal and pleasurable. No more "oh, I'll do it next time." Next Time may never arrive.

Seize the day!
Live in the moment!
Embrace right now!
Be present in the present!
Cherish forever and always!!!

Sing My Song: formerly known as "yet another 'untitled'"

UPDATED: 4/27/11

Normally, my work is inspired by events, happenings, and situations in my life -- okay, my love life...or lack thereof. This piece is no different; although, it does represent a time in the past. What essentially encouraged this poem to be "Penn'd" was an idea discussed via Twitter between me and two red-carpet-ready friends (whom shall remain nameless); BUT, I'll give you a hint: one is a "Child of God" and the other is a "YouTube DJ" (via Facebook). There was an original title, but now after the piece has been written; the original title doesn't seem to be as fitting.

I present to you...

SING MY SONG

Lovers, like friends
They come and they go
I remember the moment I met you
I know the moment I lost you
Now is the moment I should stop loving you


Baby I know I deserve a greater man
But there are things about being in love I’ve yet to understand
Crazy how I’ll get down on my knees and beg you, please
Baby please don’t leave
When it’s what I need you to do
For the day to come when I open my eyes and realize
You’re not that golden prize
Curse me for the halo I placed upon your head
Sacrificed my happiness for a love you wouldn’t give
Lost my soul just to see you smile
And to be in your presence, if only for a little while
Honey, why can’t I let go
When you want to be somewhere else
Why can’t I let go
When I need to free myself
Baby why
Why can’t I just let go
When your love
It will never grow
It will never show
And it's Your Love I’ll never know
I walk towards you; you pull away
I aim to kiss you; your eyes turn gray
And your lips say it’s not okay
Your stare looks straight through me
Your hands never touch my body
I try to protect you from the winter cold
But your feelings for me, boy I’ve never been told
You’re next to me; you’re everywhere I turn
You’ll give me nothing; I’ve come to learn
Your warmth is chilling; unnervingly
Empty-handedness doesn't work for me
Neither a rock I can run to
Nor a shoulder I can lean on
If you won’t be my angel; you won't be my hero
Someone tell me why
Why I'd rather die then let you go
I want you; I need you near
Don’t break my heart
Simply do your best; play your part
Talk to me
Tease me
Whisper
Sweetly
Gently...in my ear
Tell me baby...why you here?



Mad love, respect, and appreciation to those who provided comments and/or suggested titles. You made this difficult process enjoyable!

Cupcake Contention

I'm not sure what has become of traditional bakeries and classic treats such as brownies and cookies, but these days deluxe, delicious, and designer gourmet cupcakes are all the rage. Truthfully, as much as I want to lose 20lbs (hold your comments); I hate to say it, but I'm almost sure I've developed a cupcake addiction. Mind you, it is moi we're talking about, so you know I'm not addicted to just any ol' cupcake, but a cupcake of substance, quality, decadence and utmost approval and deliciousness. Once I start, it's awfully hard to stop -- you can't eat just one, but I try.

Just like I'm not addicted to any ol' cupcake, I'm also not addicted to cupcakes from just anyone's over. Ugh-ugh...absolutely not! Not my style! I'm addicted to gourmet cupcakes from THREE different companies; I kid you not! I can eat them without notice. I have my fave creation from each cupcakery (my word, but you can use it), but cannot bring myself to choose one favorite overall. These are just my faves from the selections that I've tried...there are still many options remaining at each bakery; not even going to mention the bakeries I have not had the pleasure of visiting (Babycakes and Buttercup Bake Shop [Peanut Butter and Jelly] are on my list to be tried soon and very soon) or those I have ruled out for other reasons (subtext: some things are just nasty). I think you should try all the cupcakes; especially from my three fave cupcakeries. Of the establishments I am about to name, they may have their own nominee for their best cupcake; be sure to ask them when you visit.

Georgetown Cupcake - (@GTownCupcake) A welcomed discovery I made by walking by (someone's desk) and being curious; another reason it pays to be nice -- you get rewarded with treats. My favorite GTown Cupcake thus far is their delicious and moist PB Fudge.

Sweet Revenge - (@sweetrevengenyc) I was introduced by a friend and fell in love immediately. First, you know I love the name...and that's all I'll say about that. Secondly, my friend is one of those who "playas" who try to be smooth and on the romantic tip in his dating excursions ... the venue is cute and provides a great atmosphere for the occasional first date; an added bonus is that they pair these sweet treats with wine. My favorite is the Sweet Revenge Cupcake, but I'll suggest trying the Not So Dirty -- they are only available on select days.

Crumbs - (@CrumbsBakeShop) Don't worry; you won't have any 'crumbs' leftover to clean up. My first Crumbs experience was with a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcake...I've been hooked ever since. They are pretty much a staple at office parties and becoming ever popular at birthday parties. I warn you now, they are ginormous. My ultimate favorite is the Blackout -- never had a bad one, I like them room temperature or chilled, and I often get them two and a time-- followed closely by the seasonal Chocolate Pecan Pie. Red Velvet is proclaimed to be their top selling cupcake; I've also been told to check out their new flavor Milkshake (I imagine it has all the boys...and girls...running to a location).


Also, trendy and worth checking out is Baked By Melissa -- delicious and cute mini cupcakes. No personal faves, but they definitely add color to a party or celebration...and make great gifts, as well.

As I've said, I have no final favorite as I still have many options to experience, but I'm not giving up...I'm holding on and keeping strong. Believing that one day, I'll be able to say..."And, the winner is...."

It will likely be Blackout, but you never know.

If/when you've had some wonderful cupcake experiences, let me know...I'm also open to suggestions.

Get your eat on!

Oprah In Me: O-So Fave Things

You know you want this...and everybody wants to be Oprah Winfrey; except me. Madam Winfrey is fab, great, grand...and beyond wonderful; I give her that. My hat off to her! However, I know I could never be her...I can only be me! I...we...can learn from her; from what she's done and everything she's accomplished. Don't worry, I'm going to spare you the "this is how to succeed," "this is how to get rich" spiel; I'm not even going to say my usual....DO BETTER.

Nope. No way. Not this time. I'm channeling another part of Ms. O --- quality and standards. Oprah has some out of this world taste and grand standards; which is why practically everything she references/recommends/mentions/thinks about and selects as a 'favorite' or 'pick' becomes an instant hit and a favorite of many of her fans and followers (can you say "powerful" and "highly influential"?). I have impeccable taste and standards too; go ahead, admit it...you know it's true. [smile]

So, I present to you, my inner Oprah and my recent (ok, first official) "O-So Fave Things" list. Now, I warn you...don't hurt yourself.

MY O-SO FAVES:

• Sharpie pen - A quintessential writing tool! Lightweight, smooth writing, and it doesn't bleed through your paper.

• Systane eye lubricant and ointment - Yes, I had my doubts...at first, but I absolutely LOVE the Systane Ultra Lubrican Eye Drops and the Systane Nighttime Ointment. They leave your eyes feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I've often used "moist" to describe these two products make my eyes feel, but you now...take that as you may.

• Bath & Body Works shower gels; for men (Twilight Woods and Noir) -- both subtle and clean fragrances that make you want to jump around and dance and sing after your shower, but still leaves you feeling sensual; unisex (Sea Island Cotton) -- yes, this one will have you smelling yourself! It's soft, clean, and crisp. Great for a night out on the town or a cozy, snuggle-heavy night inside.
  

• Red Jacket Orchards - Fuji Apple Juice; that's pretty much all that needs to be said. It's pressed; and is likely the best tasting apple juice you will ever have...minus the concentrates.

• Fage - Strained Greek yogurt. Who knew plain could be so extraordinary!? For those days when you want a little something extra...pour in the topping (honey, strawberry, and blueberry are my fave add-ins).

• Barbara's - has a few products that tickle my fancy, but their Original Wheatines Crackers are at the top of my list; also try their Peanut Butter Puffins cereal.

• Glutino - has the BEST pretzel sticks E-VER! Not to mention, they are gluten-free. Hush...don't knock it 'til you try it. You will never want another pretzel. (Look for the blue bag!)

• French Meadow - Splendid chocolate chip cookies and fudge brownies; gluten-free, as well. You won't want to miss out!!!
  

• Revolution tea - Talk about tasty...and cute (they come in individual serving sizes in adorable boxes). Not only did I had to call and tell my mother about these, but I also had some shipped to her as a gift. She loves them, as well!

So, yes, this is the "Oprah in me" that I'm sharing with you. None of my recommendations are paid endorsements or advertisements. I'm all about quality and taste. Each of the above I use and thoroughly enjoy (some I 'live by,' if you will) and use/consume frequently.

Step up to the plate...try them; I dare you! You know you want to.

Irreplaceable vs Interchangeable

Four years later and Beyonce still has people singing "to the left, to the left" and thinking they are 'irreplaceable.' They really just don't know. Not only are they NOT irreplaceable, they may be down-right interchangeable.

Do you know the difference between the two: Irreplaceable vs Interchangeable?

While irreplaceable means not having a substitute or similar/identical alternative; interchangeable means the ability to replace or exchange places. In short, interchangeable means you need to get your act together and get your business in order because things aren't right and your foundation is vulnerable. Your house can come down at any moment! Yes, I am saying it: someone else can be you and do what you're doing; either as good or better. Now, what are you going to do about that?

Time to pick it up and get to irreplaceable! Be valuable...be worth something...and know it. Rock what you do in a style and manner that no one else could ever do; drive them to imitate, but never allow them to replicate.

Irreplaceable is the goal and replaceable is not an option. Vow to never be replaced. NO ONE should EVER be able to be you or fill your shoes. The gauges of your life should be unparalleled, highly-distinguished precedence, to inspire and lead by example (inspire others to aspire to do better), and to establish and maintain high standards (quality over quantity). A truth to being irreplaceable is to always be aware of your Replaceability Factor and to know your value and worth (your self-worth must always be higher than your worth to someone else).

While many of my topics apply and are related to aspects of the intimate relationship, the battle of Irreplaceable vs Interchangeable has no boundaries and transcends borders. Meaning, it can be applied in other realms; such as the workplace, platonic friendships, and any other situation in which you are a functioning element. Always strive to do your best, to be your best, and to be the best. Variation from the rest is what distinguishes you; so, stand tall, do proud, and shine on! Besides, what could possibly be better than You? Except for, maybe....Me.