Loverly Notions

The sweetest thing

2010-04-20T20:08:00.003-05:00

So, it's been a long time since I graced this page. As we all need to do sometimes, I've been on an extended self-imposed timeout - regrouping, reevaluating, rediscovering. More recently, however, the blog has been calling and when my dear friend Judy came to visit last week one of her first questions was "blogging?" to which I shamefully had to shake my head "no". Rather than procrastinate in my perfectionism, I decided to post up a quick "hey you" and something beautiful to go with it...my friend in my head, Ms. Lauryn Hill...who like it or not has committed herself to the authenticity of herself, her process, her unfolding, her evolution...So here she is at a surprise appearance at the Tanzania Education Foundation benefit (looking radiant no doubt)...and HERE I am...

The sweetest thing I've ever known
Was like the kiss on the collarbone
Soft caress of happiness
The way you walk, your style of dress

All I Want for Christmas Is:

2009-12-10T23:41:00.002-06:00

Its been awhile since I blogged and ohhhhhhhh how I missed it. Watching Julia and Julie tonight while washing my hair, reawakened in me the desire for fine living and blogging about it. So, "tis the season" for making list, giving gifts and making resolutions...here are a few of mine.

All I want for Christmas is:

1. White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap in Hemlock (not the color shown)
Simply Chic and Sumptuous...
How to Weat the White + Warren Cashmere Travel Scarf

2. OPI's You Don't Know Jacques

3. Mignon Faget Barbed Earrings

4. A Yoga Bolster

5. The Satorialist Book

6. Hope and Love

waiting on the world to change

2009-11-10T21:37:00.001-06:00

Catch her while you can...Jamey Hatley is making moves

2009-10-11T19:37:00.000-05:00

My friends are fabulous...Jamey Hatley, writer, stylista and whip up a brunch that would make Colin Cowie and Martha Stewart proud homegirl, was recently interviewed on Galley Cat, the Wall Street Journal of publishing. Check it out.

Must Have This Lamp

2009-10-09T00:11:00.001-05:00

Must Have This Lamp...West Elm Rock Table Lamp for $145...OMG

Note, I want a different shade...gold or chrome?

Earthy Casual, That's Me...Maybe?

2009-10-06T21:49:00.002-05:00

I took the HomeGoods Style Quiz. Here are my results:

Takema, you are an Earthy Casual

You're interested in creating a welcoming home where people feel comfortable and happiness flourishes. You appreciate the warmth and individuality of natural materials and handcrafted things and are inspired by colors and forms from nature. You love mixing up different textures and are sensitive to the tactile qualities of objects. Your style is grounded and solid, not flighty or frilly. And you are never taken in by the trend of the moment.

You value serenity. While there are probably a lot of interesting things in your home, they are joined by your taste or a certain palette that keeps them in harmony. You appreciate the beauty in simple forms. Whether fancy or plain, you appreciate things that are well made and function as well as they look. You also have a strong respect for the environment and craftsmanship. You care about how things are made, and how they are used.

I agree but I would add that I am also sophisticated and classy.

Valentino, The Last Emperor

2009-10-05T23:39:00.000-05:00

Valentino, The Last Emperor, is a must see. If you love fashion and admire genius, this bio-doc is a peek inside the sometimes schizophrenic mind and of a fashion icon. The movie is set against the backdrop of Valentino's long and strong relationship with business partner and lover Giancarlo Giammetti (who by the way is a doll!) and the trials and tribulations of the luxury fashion market in flux. If you have Netflix, you can view the doc online.

Love the pugs!

7 Things I've Fall(in) in Love With From Anthropologie 09 Fall Collection

2009-10-05T23:14:00.004-05:00

Anthropologie's October 2009 catalog came in the mail today. Here are the 7 must haves in my shopping cart:

This sweater reminds me of a kimono...I love the sweet colors and the wrap affect. I think I will dress this up over a dress and dress it down over leggings and boots.

I just love this color, not to mention the length of the sleeves is great for

that layering affect I love to do in New Orleans winters.

I can't get over this pleating in a knit.

This color will translate from the boardroom to the plane to a date.

My favorite part of this sweater is those cuffs and the ruching on the shoulders. I'm not sure about the color combo, but I really dig the feminine design.

Nothing says lady like sheer, ruffles and a delicate neck tie. But nothing says power like navy. Love the combo!

Architecture meets a knit and ruffles in all the right places. Sultry!

I'm obsessed with teal blue...for all seasons. While its a little summery, I think this dress will work in New Orleans with a sweater, tights and boots before transferring to spring with bare legs.

Design Dilemma/Answered Petitions - Lonny Magazine Launched

2009-10-05T13:44:00.003-05:00

I was just having this conversation on the way out of my class this morning..."Damn, I miss Domino Magazine!" And then, Jamey Hatley, writer and friend fabulous, and I where just bemoaning the closing of Gourmet magazine and this DAMN recession that is sacrificing way too many of our stables for loverly notions and potions.

And just like that, the universe heard my petitions and WALLAH....Lonny Magazine, an online Domino-ish Magazine has been launched. The first issue is live and lush with accessible interior/lifestyle design inspiration and ideas...almost everything I loved about Domino except the actual print copy, which I so enjoyed touching, dog earring and archiving. Nonetheless, I am grateful and in being so I must share!!!! Not so in love with the cover, but I promise the inside won't disappoint (shoot beggars can't be choosers, u know?) Check it out loverlies!

Oldie but Goodie...Tatum O'Neal in Paper Moon

2009-09-24T01:34:00.001-05:00

Just watched Paper Moon starring Ryan and Tatum O'Neal (Tatum won an Oscar for Paper Moon at age 10). It was well worth staying up beyond my bedtime. Check out the link on YouTube for a quick 5 minute short.

$500,000 No Strings Attached

2009-09-22T10:39:00.002-05:00

Congrats to 2009 MacArthur Genius Award winners Edwidge Danticat and Mark Bradford! DO THE DAMN THANG! Click on links and listen to the videos.

LUCKY? NO BRO, YOU DESERVE THIS ONE!

To Harem or Not to Harem...That is the?

2009-09-17T19:23:00.003-05:00

I am so conflicted. Do I or don't I? The aging fashionista in me is looking for ways to bring casual comfort to my wardrobe while still maintaining that elegance meets edgy balance. The eighties kid is having flashbacks of the MC Hammer "Can't Touch This" video. Back in those days we didn't know that the appropriate term was "harem pant" so we called it the "dookie pant", cuz it looked like a harem had taken a dump in your harems.

I think I'll experiment with the less saggy versions and work my way from there. Kinda like the ones in these two pictures.

Coming Soon To a Theatre Near You: Black Gurls Rule!

2009-09-17T15:58:00.004-05:00

What ever black gurl has dreamed about (especially my niece Mahadi), when she placed a towel on her head and pretended to be Cinderella, Snow White, Bell, Pochantas, Ariel, Jasmine, or Mulan...the list goes on and on and on. Princess Tiana is here with all her sassyness in Disney's "The Princess and the Frog". Set in New Orleans, this story is complete with food, jazz, fireflies named "Ray", Big Mamas, bayous, alligators and frogs, all of which we have plenty of in 'Nawlins! Out in theater's December 11th.

Can't Get Enuf Sex (in the City)

2009-09-15T09:48:00.002-05:00

I don't like when good things end, be they relationships, gigs, favorite restaurants, a good nap or tv shows. Every now and then the universe grants us an opportunity to hold on for one more precious moment. The Sex and the City Sequel is a work in progress and promises to be chock full of Carrie's indecisiveness, Samantha's sexual escapades, Meranda's bossiness, and Charolotte's sugary sweetness....oh and please give us more Mr. Big and more Patricia Field's killer styling! Can Big and Carrie not break-up this time, though? I can't take anymore!

The real question is, when are we going to get the last episode of Girlfriends.

We'll Miss the Swag Swayze

2009-09-15T00:20:00.002-05:00

RIP Our Beloved Dirty Dancer!
You danced from one end of your dash to the other!

"Live like it's Heaven on Earth,
Work like you don't need money,
Love like you've never been hurt,
And dance like no one's watching"

Patrick Swayze 1952-2009

Long Live the Dead Queen, Mary Sibande makes me long for ZA!

2009-09-14T23:33:00.004-05:00

I have long held the dream of curating the first African Biennial. Artist, Mary Sibande, lights a fire in me to get busy! I ran across her chasing links about Contemporary African design and I immediately friended this kindred spirit on Facebook. Lifting the "domestic worker" from the background to the foreground, her work is a mixture of Lorna Simpson and Kara Walker, sans the exploitation. It is fantasy and harsh reality, beautifully rendered and unnervingly complicated...kinda like life is.

In Her Own Words (Quoted from Mary's Artist Statement):

I use the body as an exploration of claiming identity in a Post colonial South Africa while also using the body as a tool to express concerns in the stereotypical depiction of women, particularly black women. The body emphasises the limitation that history has placed on identity. I like to tease and test the viewer's expectations of reality in South Africa today, not only by using the body as a stage or platform to play out scenes of fantasies and realities, but also by changing the viewer's expectations. I like to change and distort the body in order to twist expectations, in the case of Sophie where her skin colour is black. I'm looking at the disempowerment of black women and my work is shaped by our historical past and refers to Post-Colonial theories.

My work deals with the section of women in society that is often off-centre stage, namely maids. Although there has been a political change in our country, there are some conditions that are still prevalent, that are direct results of apartheid. I intend to investigate the shadow of apartheid that still lingers in South African society. Although one can argue the freedom of our country under the new democratic dispensation, many members of the South African society are not free in their minds, haunted by lingering self-doubt.

My work also looks at the ideals of beauty and femininity represented by examples of privileged members of society, and the aspirations of the less fortunate women to be like them. The Victorian dress worn by Sophie is her aspiration that reveals or hints at the history of servitude of black people in South Africa. In addition, I use silhouettes as these are the maid's projected fantasies in a cast shadow. My work is influenced largely by the colonial Victorian costume and I use these costumes as my starting point because of the colonial influences in South Africa. The costume has been carefully replaced by a maid's fabric and pattern which is well known in South Africa while respecting the formal elements of the Victorian era.

ARISE: African Promise Collective...Africa Comes to NY Fashion Week. R U READY?

2009-09-14T15:07:00.008-05:00

As fate would have it, yesterday while perusing the magazine section at Barnes and Noble a long held dream came true. I discovered ARISE magazine. I can't tell you how excited I am about ARISE, a fashion/design magazine featuring contemporary African aesthetics. I drove home with baited breathe to cuddle up and devour every inch of this zine. Since curiosity killed the cat and a design feign like me can't get enough, I had to get online and find out more about my new favorite magazine....and WALLAH, the Arise: African Promise Collective debuted a collection from various African designers at New York Fashion week on Friday.

Take your time with these images, they are overwhelmingly gorgeous!

Missing the Whimsy/Missing Domino

2009-09-09T00:16:00.003-05:00

Ideas for small spaces: Jewel tones in New York studio, Domino magazine
Originally uploaded by xJavierx

Every month I have that moment when it hits me all over again...my beloved Domino magazine is RIP. While Conde Nasty claimed they were downsizing due to the recession, its sad they couldn't see the treasure that this DIY meets Elle Decor meets Gen X meets Beauty at all Price Points zine was. But before you weep in sorrow, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and its not an oncoming train (in my world that would be like CB2 going out of business). Thanks to the goddess of interior design and one of my new classmates who put me on, there is a Flickr archive chock full of images from old issues. The Domino Magazine Files, uploaded by Saint xJavierx, has over 936 photographs he saved from the ole' site.

Recessions suck but they also make us more resourceful and appreciative of what we do have which is the resource of each other. I plan to scan a few of my back issues that are not represented so that we can secure a full archive for the next generation of Kelly Weartlers and Takema Robinsons...'til infinity and beyond!

Why I Heart Serena

2009-09-08T23:44:00.007-05:00

In her typical humble/classy/yet you know I spanked that a@@ style, Serena advanced to the US Open semi-finals, closing out the match to Pennetta in 2 sets...all while wearing just one earring. This is why I love Serena and the Williams clan. They give black folks a shot of pride every time they step on the court. No need for sh*t talking or name calling, they let their aptitude and attitude speak for themselves. Having went to HU with both of their older sisters, I have heard the stories about what they have endured behind the scenes. These women have been called everything other than children of God and yet they hold their heads high and smash that ball harder than most men could dream of. Next up for a whoopin...Clijsters. Bring your vaseline, gurl, cuz you ain't ready for the 125miler!

New Orleans in the Hamptons

2009-08-23T14:03:00.016-05:00

There is something about New Orleans that is intoxicating. Maybe its the brass band music, maybe its the gumbo, the jambalaya or the bread pudding? Could it be the Hurricanes (the drink not the weather monster)? This summer, I had the awesome honor of working with Finding Our Folk, to produce the 2nd annual fundraiser in the Hamptons to support the Hot 8 Brass Band and Black Men of Labor's music education program. Hosted by ceramacist, restauranteur, and all around class act, Toni Ross, this event brought out over 100 people to dance to the sounds of the Hot 8 Brass Band and celebrate and support a children's music education program in New Orleans. We were graced by the presence of the dynamic ladies of Urban Bush Women and Essence Magazine's founder Susan Taylor who made a passionate appeal for folks to support the unique culture of New Orleans by making sure that the next generation has an opportunity to sit at the feet of these masters.

Here are a few pictures from the event and the after party at Town Line BBQ where we ate 'till our stomach's hurt (fried mac and cheese please!) and sang our way through the Micheal Jackson musical catalog. It was a weekend I will never forget! Take a look......

Bush Women in the Bush!

Black Men of Labor Getting Their Dance On!

Kathy and Emma!

Jawole and Christine at Town Line BBQ! Founders of the Bush!

The beautiful Jana, ED of the Urban Bush Women!

London and Paloma at Town Line.

Catherine!

Me and Drew!

Marjonie and Albert...Don't Hurt Him!

From the Roota to the Toota! Bennie, Drew, Chad and Marjanie were loving that BBQ!

A Micheal Jackson Review, Live at Town Line BBQ in Bridgehampton!

Love It! Gotta Have It!

2009-08-23T13:49:00.004-05:00

You all know how much I love Le Sport Sac make-up bags....now the functional French pack it up and go designer has introduced a line of laptop bags! Mine is on order! I'll be too cute in my interior design classes or board meetings when I pull this pink, brown and orange laptop bag out! It also comes in black with silver accent and all black!

Braggadocious!

2009-08-17T21:45:00.010-05:00

Its never too late to brag about a friend...and this week it would be my gurl, writer, urban conjure woman, Jamey Hatley, who this spring was published in the Oxford American, The Southern Magazine of GOOD Writing (that's their tag-line not mine, but I do agree).

What's fly about Jamey...well everything. 1. She is one of my best friends! 2. She is one of the best internet sourcers you will ever meet (to the end of the internet and beyond) 3. She can cook like your mama's mama 4. She has the nicest parents EVER...who even took me in during our evacuation from Gustav 5. She is the friend who comes early, stays late and routinely saves me from a hosting crisis 6. She is writing one of the most important books of this century.

I have to lift her up because going to the page EVERYDAY is no small feat. She exemplifies the sacrificial artist and is birthing a book that I have already claimed as Pulitzer worthy. Order you back issue from the Oxford American website so you can say that you knew her when.
http://www.oxfordamerican.org/articles/issues/2/

FYI...her work was accompanied by these beautiful images by Ruud Van Empel and the cover of the issue was designed by my fly-ass friend Hank Willis Thomas.

You can visit Jamey at her blog: jameyhatley.wordpress.com

All images courtesy of The Oxford American

Africa Meets America/Fashion Meets Social Change

2009-08-17T17:22:00.010-05:00

I have always been a fan of micro-enterprise initiatives, self-determination, women's empowerment, all things African, fashion, and cowboy's (can't help it, my dad is a cowboy). African Cowboy, a social enterprise based in Ghana, is merging these things and making social change fashionable.

I first meet African Cowboy's founder and designer Mobalaji at the Essence Festival this summer when I out the corner of my eye I caught a glimpse of his beautiful textile shirts and almost knocked my mama over to get to them (if you've been shopping with me you know exactly what this looks like). But Mobalaji's shirts are not just beautifully tailored and designed, they are a part of a social-enterprise that "uses clothing to transform living and working conditions in Africa via social entrepreneurship and to use clothing as a means of taking the world on a colorful journey through Africa that leaves everyone inspired by the beauty and creativity of it’s people. African Cowboy by its own nature has chosen to go against the norm and produce its clothes in Africa where very little infrastructure exists. By doing so, African Cowboy provides Fair Trade opportunities for local manufacturers in ways that are not traditionally done."

"In essence, the African Cowboy shirt encourages us to unleash our inner cowboy/cowgirl and blaze our own trails while making a difference for humanity." I am proud to say that I own an African Cowboy shirt and so should you. Take a tour of Mobalaji's on-line shop at: www.africancowboyclothing.com

All images and quotes courtesy of African Cowboy.

Shout Out: Thi from Belladonna

2009-08-17T15:23:00.006-05:00

I am off to class but before I go I need to give a shout of praise to my girl Thi Smith at Belladonna Day Spa here in New Orleans. Thi, a skin care specialist/my skin care specialist, has been working with me since January when I stumbled into the spa with Proactive reactive skin. No jokes ya'll, my skin was in revolt - dry, ashey, broken-out. Ms. Thi calmed me down and ensured me that with some time, patience, the right products and our collective commitment to nurturing each and every pore on my face that I would have summer ready, easy, breezy beautiful Cover Girl skin.....and, guess what.....I do! I just want to give her a shout out and recommend that if anyone is having these issues that you run, don't walk, to see Ms. Thi or an anestitician near you!

Ms. Thi also recommended the Murad system to me. I use the Cleanser and Toner in the acne formula and the Vitalic Energizing Pomegranate Lotion with SPF 15. But by far, my favorite product is this bronzer with SPF 15. It hides the occasional blemish without the need for heavy foundations, it firms, it moisturizes and then gives me a little extra radiance. I love it! Go and get you some!

What I want...

2009-08-10T21:28:00.006-05:00

Known mostly for her kimono style dresses, British fashion designer Issa is the next DVF! Making beautiful, sensuous, feminine clothing, she has the unique talent of making clothes that make women feel dominant and demur at the same time. The lush material, the rich indigo color, the deep "V" and the cape affect on this dress is giving a "SUPERWOMAN" vibe. Someone get engaged, invite me to an art opening, or a fancy dinner party so I have an excuse to rock this dress!

Kerry Washington's Down To Earth Design

2009-08-10T20:10:00.008-05:00

Featured in the June issue of O, Magazine, actress Kerry Washington's eco-friendly home designed by decorator Danny Seo proves that you don't have to sacrifice style to be green. I am a fan of the color (sans the green in the kitchen), the bold graphic prints and the subtle African textiles. Its fresh, young, lush, and down to earth (pun intended). This interior and the intention behind it completely reflects who Kerry Washington is...young, beautiful, talented, political, and articulate. Coming to a theater near you this fall, Washington will be starring in Howard Zinn's forthcoming documentary The People Speak. BTW...decorator Danny Seo hit up JCPenny's for quite a few of these items.

(All photos courtesy of O, Magazine, June 2009)

Quote of the Week...

2009-08-10T16:27:00.002-05:00

We are in charge of what we say to ourselves.

We can say that our lives are full of health, wealth, and happiness; abundance, prosperity, and riches; loving, caring, and sharing; and the joy of touching to others with that fullness. That story is closer to the truth of who you are and will manifest for you because, as you think in your heart, you will become.

~ John-Roger with Paul Kaye

Ask and ye shall receive...

2009-08-10T15:29:00.003-05:00

Apartment Therapy’s Design Showcase 2009
Call for entries...

Want to launch your design career? Let us help you.

I am so excited about this opportunity. Next week, I start school (a 2-year degree in Interior Design) and so this opportunity through Apartment Therapy could not be more on time. I am considering entering images of my bedroom, living room, entry way and and office/home studio. I'll be posting my progress on the blog so you can have an inside peek into the process!!!!

They Sang, They Laughed, They Cried, They Danced....They were Urban Bush Women!

2009-08-10T14:43:00.006-05:00

I took last week off to participate in the Urban Bush Women Summer Leadership Institute in New Orleans. After 10 days of intensive community engagement, movement/dance, and undoing racism training, my body is sore, my mind is fried, but my spirit is high (forgive the rhyming). I spent time meditating, singing and sharing with 70 amazing women/men. I reached my "growing edge" at the Lower 9th Ward Farming Coalition when I got dirt under my nails, again when I woke up on day four to a body in rebellion, and again when I realized that I had to perform in front of my community (I so prefer being behind the scenes). I learned patience with myself and others and the necessity of taking time to be still and check-in with mind/body/spirit. Ashe!

"I love myself! I see the beauty in myself! I am powerful!"

Living Art: Anne Becker's art (& light filled) loft!

2009-07-30T21:29:00.014-05:00

Better late than never...I had to write about artist Anne Becker's loft, featured in the March 2009 issue of Elle Decor. The textures, the textiles, the mix/match of rustic and modern, create a serene and inspiring space. I live to live with my art and the things that stimulate my creativity. I love Anne Becker's philosophy about living with fewer things and the way her designer Gregory Bissonnette blended these well curated items into a harmonious home space. I am jealous of all the natural light. And yes, that is a disco ball!

Q: What do I want to be when I grow-up? A: Fierce like Grace!

2009-07-30T20:58:00.005-05:00

A little on the overly sexualized eccentric side but there is no denying that Grace Jones epitomizes FIERCE! "Pull up to my bumper baby!" Word is is that Ms. Jones (if your nasty) is on a tour, appropriately named "Hurricane"! Love Her/Hate Her...Ms. Jones is working the body suit at 61!

My Newest Wantings from J. Crew

2009-07-30T19:49:00.012-05:00

What does it mean when you run into a J. Crew associate in the street and they greet you with a hug. Admittedly, I have an addiction to the brand's up to date, glamour meets casual styles. Here is a list of my wantings from the new fall catalog. I also included a dress I think my friend and writer Jamey Hatley would look great in at one of her book signings!

I love the colors, print, and shape of this skirt. I don't usually wear print on the bottom but I might have to depart from the rules and take a fashion risk!

These shoes just scream "KEEEEEEEEM"....feminine and sassy! The bow reminds me of my "co" for life Lucecita Maria Theresa Castillo!

Is distressed and cuffed back in? Why yes! And I want some!

I think I want to wear this dress to my fundraising event in NYC this fall. The metallic with the ruffle is calling my name. I don't think I would rock the booties but I will rock this nail color by Essie!

This is a great basic. I can think of so many great tops that I have that would look great with this skirt.

Last but not least...every girl needs accessories. I am thankful that we bought back the belt. No matter what happens in "fashion land" its a keeper for me. I am loving this avocado green. It reminds me of my grandmothers fridge circa 1979!

And for Jamey...Wouldn't you look great in this dress at a book signing or maybe for your panel talk in a few weeks? Add a little Bamboozeled jewelry and its AFROSSIPPI! It says chic but casual, just like you!

Mourning: Peggy Cooper Cafritz's Art House Burned

2009-07-30T19:24:00.003-05:00

I was informed today by my dear roomie, Washingtonian and Loverly Notions Friend, Retta, that Ms. Cooper-Cafritz's beautiful art-house was lost in an overnight fire. No word yet on what started the blaze, but apparently low water pressure prevented the DC Fire Department from extinguishing the blaze. Thankfully Ms. Cooper-Cafritz and family were in the Vineyard.

This is one of those moments of mixed emotion. I am thankful that no one was hurt and saddened that this magnificent collection of African American art has been lost.

Simply Inspired: Peggy Cooper Cafritz's Art House

2009-07-17T18:20:00.007-05:00

As some of you know, I am passionate about art, design, social justice and education. Peggy Cooper Cafritz, whose home is featured in the August issue of O Magazine, personifies passionate, abundant living. As the tireless leader of Washington, DC's Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Ms. Cooper-Cafritz is not just a patron of the arts...she is ART. Her life, articulated perfectly in her home, is a merger of our shared love and appreciation of beauty meets substance. Simply inspired.

I also want to recognize Ms. Cafritz's loyalty to artists of color whose work often goes unnoticed or mistreated by the mainstream (Shout out to Will Villango, who was an Artist-In-Residence when I was at SMH). I also admire how she lives ART, in her home, in her dress and in her career. Art is Life/Life is Art...Create the life you want to live from the thoughts and things you love.

Pictures courtesy of O, Magazine.

Fledglings...Trying to Fly

2009-07-17T15:35:00.004-05:00

This week I have had three disturbing encounters with our feathered friends. I found a baby bird who had fallen from a tree. Garvey and I stumbled upon a dead blue jay on our walk this morning. And then I witnessed a hit and run of a crane. When trying to figure out what to do for the fallen baby bird, I Go-Go-Gadgeted my iPhone and Googled: Fallen Baby Bird. To my surprise the reply was: Leave the little novice pilot ALONE. HUH?

Learning how to help is an art. Sometimes the best thing we can do is nothing. To reinforce this idea, the universe reiterated this notion via the Daily Om:

July 16, 2009
Observing Evolution
Allowing Others To Walk Their Paths

Watching a loved one or a peer traverse a path littered with stumbling blocks can be immensely painful. We instinctively want to guide them toward a safer track and share with them the wisdom we have acquired through experience. Yet all human beings have the right to carve their own paths without being unduly influenced by outside interference. To deny them that right is to deny them enlightenment, as true insight cannot be conveyed in lectures. Rather, each individual must earn independence and illumination by making decisions and reflecting upon the consequences of each choice. In allowing others to walk their paths freely, you honor their right to express their humanity in whatever way they see fit. Though you may not agree with or identify with their choices, understand that each person must learn in their own way and at their own pace.

The events and circumstances that shape our lives are unique because each of us is unique. What touches one person deeply may do nothing more than irritate or confound another. Therefore, each of us is drawn to different paths. The paths that will have the most profound effects on our personal evolution. If you feel compelled to intervene when watching another human being make their way slowly and painfully down a difficult path, try to empathize with their need to grow autonomous and make their own way in the world. Should this person ask for your aid, give it freely. You can even tell them about your path or offer advice in a conscious loving way. Otherwise, give them the space they need to make their own mistakes, to enjoy the fruits of their labors, to revel in their triumphs, and to discover their own truths.

Let's not forget we were all teetering, teething, tormenting toddlers/teenagers in love with the word-No. I give thanks for grace and mercy and those who were my net when I leaped with reckless abandon.

My Favorite Things...these are a few for starters...

2009-07-15T15:29:00.011-05:00

Okay, so if you are close friend of mine you are familiar with my on-going acquisition of new indulgences for my "Favorite Things" list. You've probably been a beneficiary of one or two (if so comment below and weigh in on the likes). If not, here is a window into my boudoir, my make-up bag, my medicine cabinet and my mind. This list is ever evolving and I plan to post a new "favorite thing" each week, but to get us started let me list the staples for posterity...

I Likey...
5. Archipelago's African Fresia Jar Candle.
This one candle scents my entire 2000 square foot home with this spicey meets fresh delight.

4. Birkenstocks Gizeh Sandles in Liquid Silver.
I am a heel girl. Wedges, stacked, stiletto, kitten...I love the way they make my legs look and I drool for Christian Louboutin. But the kid can't front on these Birkies! Not only are they comfortable (after about 5 wears...they form to your feet) but that metallic silver is hot. Last time we were in NYC, both Aiji and I shook off the Hacken-Sacking-Hippy image that Birks of yesterday conjure and decided to become the new face of the BIRKENSTOCK! Call us "Bippies" but we likey!

3. C.O. Bigelow's Peppermint Lip Gloss
This oldest apothecary in the country released a line in collaboration with Bath and Body Works a few years ago. The best thing about this (for me, the NYC ex-patriot) is that I can get my fav C.O. Bigelow goodies anywhere there is a Bath and Body Works...like this lip smacking lip gloss that moisturizes, shines and tastes good. Happy smooching...

2. Fresh's Sugar Lemon Soap
All I can say is moisture meets fragrance meets sheer delight. This soap makes you want to draw a bath, light candles and play Maxwell. Luxuriate...

1. Make-up Bags By Le Sport Sac
I was first given a Le Sport Sac make-up by one of my chicest friends, curator and tap dancer, Rashida Bumbray. Rah gave me my first LSS for Christmas/Kwanza when we were working at The Studio Museum in Harlem...it was likey at first sight. I now engage in the annual LSS bag search. I prefer the three-zip and the small sac versions. They hold lots of make-up goodies and gadgets. I love the whimsical designs and bold colors and the way they make me feel both glamour goddess and little girl at the same time.

DISCLAIMER: I'm clear that these things, yet loverly and useful, cannot return affection or adoration, they do however make life a little more pleasant, i.e. deodorant. Try one of the above and/or post comments about the things that bring a little joy to your everyday life. And don't forget to check back with me weekly for my newest favorite thing. I hope you enjoyed my musings and muses.

Puppy Whuve

2009-07-06T20:42:00.000-05:00

Marcus "Garvey", my 4 1/2 month old Boston Terrier is both lover and toe terrorist. After a weekend with my folks, including my step-sister who is tear-jerking-melt-down-phobic of dogs, Garvey survived to raid the laundry another day. In the little time that this pit-bull/boxer/bull dog inspired fur ball has entered my life, he has had three cases of worms, Parvo (which included abdominal surgery), and now what looks like Pink Eye (isn't that from getting poo in your eye?)...but despite the vet bills, the housebreaking, and his new fond love of rolling in dirt, Marcus "Garvey" the dog is the puppy "whuve" of my life.

This is the dog collar and leash that I ordered today...

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None of us are perfect. Life is a process of working towards the full manifestation of our divinity. Let us choose to remember and emphasis the good in us all. Thank you Mike for the music and the love.

Look over your shoulder...because ONLY those without sin should caste a stone.

What's Loverly Today - June 30, 2009

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What am I loving today? Well first the gift of life and the gift of family...black families to be exact. I am grateful for the love of my partner and buddy, Aiji, who is always dreaming up new dreams/schemes to make something out of nothing (that's what chef's do, right?). I am grateful for my good girlfriends, (to numerous to name), who are each trying and succeeding at manifesting their own loverly notions and spreading their shine around the world. I am grateful for my 4 1/2 month old Boston Terrier who is currently rummaging through the laundry for used wash clothes and socks (the funkier the greater the sensual delight!). I am grateful for my family who will be descending on my home in mass and sharing a weekend of New Orleans rivalry with me (Le Bon Temps Roule). Most of all I am grateful for my baby brother Kyle who after 5 months in jail came home this past weekend and called me with a renewed sense of resilience and direction. How loverly is that?

This is my blog...

2009-06-30T19:26:00.000-05:00

lov·er (lvr)
n.
1. One who loves another.
2. One who is fond of or devoted to something: a lover of fine food.
lover·ly adv. & adj.

This is my blog. I'll be posting "notions", thoughts about my life/our life with an emphasis on all things loverly and sensuously beautiful.