Blogdangit

Life Chapters

Some have asked recently, do I miss my corporate work? I miss some part of it. I miss some of the people. I miss more of the excitement of my travels. What I don't miss is the… aw… well, I'm gon' leave that alone. I've always had much respect for my company, ahem… ex-company and clearly don't blame it for the issues which… hmmm well, I aint gon' take it there.

Not sure if y'all knew, but my background is project management and the one lesson I've learned more than anything is that babysitting grown folks with their childish and immature as well as lack of moral behavior is a talent in itself. And right now, I'm not up for the challenge. Maybe someday I'll go back. But it would have to be different, because I am different. I'm undergoing some type element which defines the strength of me. And for the most part, I've decided my life has got to be uncluttered of unnecessary clutter. See there's a difference between necessary clutter and unnecessary clutter and one has to know which is controlling their destiny and if that's the road they want to take. I'm on a daily path of clearing out soul debris. When you're mentally and physically affected by let's just say unnecessary clutter and you're waiting and wanting to breathe and fly freely like a butterfly without all the obstacles in your way – is where I'm at in my life cipher. As selfish as it seems right now, it is all about self satisfaction. I've got to do me, because there is soooo much of me to do. And time is not waiting for me to continue to deliberate.

I am fortunate and blessed to have certain gifts and believe me this is no way bragging rights. Y'all know me better than that. I'm keeping it real. I've always had the creation of music in my soul. I've always kept a pen in my hand and a tablet close by no matter where I was in the world. I've always had the gift of gab, so-to-speak, because I enjoy people and good healthy conversation. I enjoy the world of art which is like breath pumping through my lungs. I'm a creative person. Most tell me I had a certain creative gift as a leader – and maybe whom I was designed to be is what reveals that trait. However, I had to not waste another moment on whether I needed to do me, plus as an added attraction, situations were not getting any better than what I was willing to accept or adapt to.

You know when it's no longer your battle. I've always heard the phrase all through my work career – you choose your battles. Some are worthy of the fight, and some are ones you toss out of your memory bank and considered them void. During the latter part of last month (Oct), it flashed clearly in my face that it was time to close this book and begin another ending of this time and place in my life.

And who knows, maybe that book will be re-read. But until then, I'm good.

So here I am.

Just Posted a New Track!!!!

Go Here to hear it titled Seasoned. Hello my good peoples. I've been posted up in the studio most of the night and all day today, and it's been a lovely experience. Now, if I can just get that ONE BIG production contract, ya girl gon' be alright. It's all good though, I'm doing what I love to do and I know persistence is gon' pay for it all.

Other news brings a busy lady trying to stay up mentally. My head is full of SO MANY creative things. I'm trying to keep it all in perspective and remain focused. I depend on y'all for simply being an ear or eye. Just having that support keeps the lady maintaining. So, thank you!

Yesterday, a national organization did a photo shoot in my studio. A colleague asked to use the facility for the shots. He's going to be featured on a national cover. His sponsor and the photographer were both nice ladies and professional in their respective fields. The photographer unloaded her photo gadgets such as umbrellas, light cans and battery packs, and a camera to DIE for. Girl was also creative with the different shots she did with him. She utilized the ambiance from the lights of all of my studio toys. I could immediately tell she was very creative. I even learned that she produces radio ads and familiar with the production process. You know I was feeling all that, right??!!! I was impressed and simply amazed that it was all going down right there. Of course we all exchanged contacts.

From then on, I was posted up in the lab doing my thing. Well that's it for now. If you've got a minute; go check out the new track (1^st Track) and if you know of anyone who need tracks, a producer, or studio, don't forget about ya gurl.

Y'all be blessed…

A TuesDay with ‘Lady’

Hello everyone. My day started off really good, and then it got better and even much better. I went to my previous job and had a good visit with everyone. They all asked was I now ready to come back home – meaning back to work with them. They made me feel really special. And you know that's always a good feeling. They extended hugs and excitement, and strong words of care. They've all left a piece of themselves with me and I've obviously done the same thing with them.

I received a couple of phone calls from co-workers I had not spoken with for quite some time. It seems those phone calls were in sync with the flow of which my day was going. The conversations were more encouraging as I take on my creative side of life.

I later drove to a very elegant Martini Bar for the first time and ordered a couple of dirty vodka martinis. The bartender (Chris) and I talked for about 45 minutes. I learned where he was from and how he became a bartender. He's a young white gentleman, clean cut and very handsome. He resides in New Orleans. As I sat at the bar, I also talked with a good friend on the cell phone, which had planned a special and romantic birthday surprise for her boyfriend which didn't work out. I was sorry to hear that because she had been planning it for days.

After leaving the Martini Bar, I drove to a Ri.te A.id for a few items. At the checkout counter was a boy about the age of nine or ten, purchasing a large and very nice notebook binder with pockets and a large ruled notebook. His total was $18. His little face changed as he pulled out his ten. He told the cashier (which was an older man who appeared to be a Manager) that he didn't have enough money and he was going to put the binder back. I then told the cashier that I would pay the difference. The little boy looked up at me and humbly said, "Thank you "ma'am." That did it for me, there was nothing more precious. I asked the little boy if the money was for him and if he needed a receipt. He said it was his money as he gave me the ten dollar bill. The cashier bagged the child's items and the child left.

As I placed everything on my credit card, the cashier told me several times that what I did was a nice thing and I was a special person. I could see the compassion in his eyes as well. He told me the next time I came into the store to make him aware of my presence, as he wants to always acknowledge me. He also wished me well during the Holidays.

As I thought about this event while leaving the store, it really wasn't about me or receiving some sort of recognition; it was about that little boy having the materials he wanted and/or needed toward his education. That's a powerful situation and there was no way I would not have helped that kid.

I drove home and here I am…

 

 

“I got a job baby…”

Hello everyone. Good Monday to you. How was everyone's weekend? As for me, if y'all remember back on Saturday, I had a bad sinus headache which I finally shook off at B&N. It was much later though when it finally calmed down – that is after a Pumpkin Spice Latte and a focused effort on writing a few chapters and then working on a couple of graphics projects. I was so in that place, until when I looked up from my computer, I had been in there well around 8 hours. They had to kick me out of there as their closing time of 11pm was nearing. A sistah was putting in work!

Once I got home, a friend called and asked if I wanted to go with her and a cousin to a party which was about 30 minutes away. Because the headache was gone, I was thinking about it, but then I also wanted to get back to the graphics projects I was working on. So sad, isn't it, spending Saturday night with a computer? My friend calls it 'geek mode' when I tell her I'm in the studio or on the computer working. I also wanted to be in the studio and whip out a couple of new tracks, but the brain was already in overload.

Yesterday (Sunday), I chilled. Did I chill!!!!! I kept the jammies on all day. I didn't do any studio work, but did write a few lines and finished up 2 logos.

And today, I have a new logo project I'm working on which are in the final editing stages and hope to get it done by the end of the day. I'm headed over to B&N now. I'm craving my Pumpkin Spice Latte. Even though I recently began visiting the new B&N; the employees in there already know me. They are so cordial and attentive and make a mean coffee. Y'all know I don't meet strangers anyway. I enjoy conversing with new people. It completes my day. I will be posted up in the studio for sure tonight.

You have been enlightened with another script of time and mind of the Lady ProducHer.

Thanks for reading!

Love y'all, and you know this!

SU versus GSU

Hello everyone. I have a sinus headache that has been nagging me all day. As this is no news to y'all, I hate it every time I get one. My face hurts, and eyes feel like they are going to poof out the sockets. Around my nose feels like somebody's jumping up and down in there and calling me names 'cause I haven't taken any meds yet.

Also as you all are aware; the annual Bayou Classic is today. You know the rival game between SU and GSU. This year I'm rooting for any one of them to win…Okay, maybe it's the headache – that didn't come out right. I'm usually for Southern, but with both being historical Black Colleges, I'm all for them getting out there and having some fun and giving it all they've got, and of course keep it cool on the sportsmanship. Isn't that what's it about anyway?

On another note: The weather most definitely looks like a winter day. It's chilly, but nice. It's cloudy, and grey, and some would say gloomy, but I think it's the type of weather that puts one in the Holiday spirit. So I'm about to get in it. I think I'm going over to the new B&N and continue working on this one book project I've been on. Y'all notice I'm really quiet (not specific) on the book/writing front, but hmmmm, just wait and see; I'm coming for you. Just be ready for ya gurl.

As for later on tonight, as of now, I don't feel much like getting out on the entertainment side, so I'll probably be posted up in the studio.

See ya next time.

Marriage

I had a date last night with my husband…

Remember how I was telling y'all that my niece is a poet and she wanted to spend some time in the lab last night? Well, she fell asleep and my NEW nephew (her hubby and aspiring producer in the picture below), and I was posted up in the studio into the wee hours. We began networking and sharing our connections as he was on one computer and I was on the other. I then started playing a few tracks from the Fantom X6 giving him an idea of what I do. As he's used to producing tracks through Reason from his computer, I started playing around with a sample just showing him how it loads into the FantomX6 and how to chop it up. He pulled up a chair and we started to build the track. He seemed reluctant to actually play the keys of the sample on the keyboard, but he was playing the chops with nice concepts.

We created the flow and I started building the drums around it, the percussion, the kicks and hi-hats. I have my secret recipes on the drums which only he has witnessed. And oh, when you hear the piano part, that's me actually playing the keys. (That's no sample baby!)

Y'all check it out here and let me know what cha think. It'll play when you open the page. It feels more like a Jaheim/Common track. But as for the sell, I'll see what kind of bite I get for it. I'll definitely sell this one off 'exclusive', but they've got to come with the dough.

So, Hurry over, 'cause this track won't be posted up long!!!!

…Oh, didn't y'all know I was married to this thing we call Music?

See ya next time…

I’m Stuffed!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

Wow, I'm stuffed. And yes my jeans are unbuttoned! Everything turned out really good with another year of family folks and good friends. There was a house full!!!! I'm thinking of doing some house-hopping now. Although I'm full – I know somebody has cooked gumbo and I'd like to get that in before the day is over. (At least grab a bowl for later!) The weather is a bit nippy and I LOVE IT! I've got on a black sweater and jeans and black boots, so I'm ready baby. 

 

My niece and hubby also came over for dinner – you know the one who was married a couple weeks ago. She's a poet, so babygirl wants to record something in the studio tonight!  She's gone to visit other relatives now, and I aw know 'cause I've had two DEEP glasses of white wine and I'm on cruise control -- but we'll see whenever she gets back. Speaking of house-hopping; shoot I could really just open my bedroom window and let all that nice crispy weather in and sleep like a baby.

I'm hoping all of you are having a wonderful day with your peoples.

Gotta go,

Love ya

Thanksgiving Dinner 2007!

Hello all, I've been up and at 'em early this morning working on my part of the Thanksgiving meal. I just finished two lemon and two coconut homemade custard pies with my homemade meringue. I emphasize homemade y'all, 'cause this aint no boxed stuff. This is actually my Mom's old recipe, which as a kid; I used to watch her make every year.

I also chose to cook the turkey (22lbs), and ham. Last night I seasoned the turkey with salt, pepper, butter, and garlic powder. I stuffed it with two big white onions, 3 pieces of celery, and chunks of garlic. I then injected it with the famous Tony Chachare's Seasoned Cajun Butter. It's still marinating in the refrigerator.

I prepared the ham by using my good friend's recipe by creating a mixture of brown sugar, mustard and coke into a paste. I then rubbed it around and over the ham. It's also still marinating in the refrigerator.

On early Thursday morning, I'm going to cook the turkey in this 18 QT Roaster Oven I bought from Wal-Mart several years ago. I think they now have it in black also. Y'all this thing cook turkeys perfectly every time. The turkey is always juicy, tender and browned evenly. It's even much better than a fried turkey. I'll also cook the ham in the oven the morning of Thanksgiving.

So as far as my part of the meal, a sistah is basically done. My mom is doing the dressing, a beef roast, macaroni cheese bake, potato salad, green beans, and chocolate cake. I think everybody else is just gon' get their eat on.

Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving.

~Luvs,

Reserved Parking

My fellow Americans, why are some of you parking in the handicap parking spaces when you have no disability or handicap? Now you know that aint right! That is disrespectful and rude. I don't care if you are in your mama or grandmama vehicle and it has a tag on it. SO!!!! You are not handicapped! Stop clowning! You're holding up space for other people WHO NEED to utilize this service. There are a lot more parking spots for you than there are for the disabled who can barely get around.

Here's my story: Yesterday, as I was walking toward the front entrance of the store, a young woman in a car waited for some time to park as another car pulled out of the handicapped parking. After she parked, she got out and walked toward the store like any able body would. As I walked passed her, I made sure I gave her THE look without saying a word! I know she knew what the heck I was thinking. I was on that WISH FACTOR that she would say something. Anything! Even to just ask me what I'm looking at – 'cause I was ready to let her AZZ have it.

These spaces were designed for people who really need them. Stop playing!

Okay I'm done – that's my vent for today!

BS

Do you ever get the feeling things are not quite right? Or to just say, "I KNEW IT?" You know there's nothing to trust about a particular person, place or thing. No matter how somewhere in the back of your mind, you're thinking, "nah, not them?!" Today, I talked with a reliable source, who shared some consistent information which pretty much proved my beliefs and perception of certain people and situations. When a person just down-right flat-out lie so naturally it's frightening, you know this is definitely a serious issue. I've learned this type of behavior has been the norm and covering up any situation to make them the better part is a part of their corporate ritual. People who religiously fake it with you while tearing down your crossways… (or maybe I should say, bridges.) People who want to keep certain people in their place through any means necessary due to intimidation.

I know corporate America as a whole is full of this political bs, but to know it's from people you've actually conversed with. People who make the BIG ole' paychecks and keep the BIG ole' drama saga nestled under their immediate control. Damn, there's so much corruption, and I'm still shaking my head. What is really going on? WHEW! Somewhere down the line – someone fondled with the whole picture and several pieces of the puzzle got lost.

One thing for sure, as with life; one NEVER knows who knows who and how many of whom they know. And karma is a real mother-for-ya! I believe in full-circle and tens fold. One can't just manipulate the talents of others, cause disruption, and still maintain the top spot. Somewhere they are going to trip, slip and fall.

Why does this continue to sadden me?! Why do I care?! I think it's because somewhere down the line, I'm supposed to. It's my intuitional duty. I believe it was a written mission well before I came upon the scene. Maybe my concern will eventually reveal its purpose.

I'm still shaking my head. WHEW!

***I know I took y'all there, but y'all know me, I've got to keep this to a minimal; however, I had to say something.