Happy being me

Monday Motivation: happy thoughts

2012-02-06T08:54:00.000-05:00

"A happy thought is like a seed that sows positivity for all to reap."
- Miriam Muhammad

thought of the day

2012-02-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

Love transcends.

Musically Changed | thought of the day

2012-01-26T13:30:00.000-05:00

Two addictions: Music & Photography.

That being said, I wanted to share with you one of my favorite ablums.

12 years ago yesterday, an album that pretty much changed how I felt about the R&B and Neo-Soul genre... Pretty much music in general was released.

{D'Angelo's Voodoo} Released 1.25.00

Today I will relive those moments I felt when I first heard this album. Magic. Pure Magic.

Musically changed. Forever.

Thank you D'Angelo. I've created some of the best memories to your music.

Shoes | Converse

2012-01-19T11:18:00.000-05:00

Welllllllllll..
I have a tried. I have tried and tried to be good about buying shoes.
But.. Shoe deals just keep coming my way.
Latest purchase:

Check my fly!

The Legacy Lives on..

2012-01-16T23:33:00.000-05:00

Today is Monday January 16, 2012.
All over the United States we celebrate the birthday of a man who fought against injustice.

Happy Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Your legacy of service, dedication and unshakeable faith lives on.

Thank you.

5 (not so) Random Songs | Song I'm playing on repeat

2012-01-11T10:40:00.000-05:00

Music lover here... to the point that I'll turn around if I'm out and I don't have my headphones with me.
That being said, I tend to fall in love with a song and play it OUT. To the point where those around me hate the song before it even becomes a single on the radio.
Today's post is all about the songs I'm playing on repeat this week.

1. "Ah Yeah" - Robert Glasper Experiment featuring Christette Michelle & Musiq
This song is pretty much everything right now. It's the first song released off of Robert's forthcoming album "Black Radio" This song lets me know that the album is FULL of magic. I can't wait for it to drop.
2. "Hey" - KING
So.. I found this song by accident. I was on itunes the other day and the nice little "if you like them, you'l like this" situation hit me and BOOM. My love for KING grew instantly. The melodic tones of this song, and lyrics like "hey, you are what I saw, when I saw that shooting start" =WEAK. I've found a shooting star and that line alone makes me hit repeat at least twice.
3. "Valediction" - The Foreign Exchange
From their Grammy nomiated album 'Leave It All Behind", this song is the story of a break up. Short and straight to the point. Phonte croons " No need to take off your coat, no need to take off your shoes." Basically.. BYE! The music of the song is equally melodic. Check it out!
4. "We are One" - Frankie Beverly & MAZE with Raheem Devaughn
If this song doesn't make you snap and groove, I don't know WHAT will! And lyrics just reel you in.. 'We are one.. and that's the way it is", Well then!
5. "Your latter will be greater" - Israel & New Breed
This song is shaping my 2012. I know that God has much more in store for me than I could EVER dream or think of. My latter WILL BE GREATER! Just listen to the song and be ENCOURAGED!

Happy Wednesday Ya'll
Go jam.
Love,
Candace

2012 : Songs to shape my year

2012-01-04T09:48:00.000-05:00

HAPPY 2012!
Another year, new day, new mercies, new opportunites.
And of course since music is apart of my life its only apporiate that I start a list for 2012 of songs that well help me grow.
With that being said, the following is a list of songs to shape my 2012 these are in no particular order:

1. Your Latter Will Be Greater | Israel & New Breed
2. With my Whole Heart | Nolan Williams
3. Open The Sky | Lamar Campbell
4. Have Your Way | Karen Clark Sheard
5. Closer | Goapele
6. Hello Fear | Kirk Franklin
7. I Forgive You | Rachelle Ferrell

Each song on this list has a special meaning and will keep me closer to my goals, dreams and visions for 2012
All the BEST!

Love,
Candace

Monday Motivation | Better than before.

2011-12-19T11:11:00.002-05:00

Every day isn't perfect BUT every day here is a blessing and a chance to be better than the day before.
-Candace Boyd Wylie

Enjoy your Monday folks!

Monday Motivation

2011-12-05T15:10:00.000-05:00

It's not for THEM, It's for You.
Forgive.

Random Songs Wednesday

2011-11-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday.
5 Random Songs, grab my iphone and out of 1273 songs.. this is what I got today on shuffle.
Let's Go!

1. Worth it | Whitney Houston
From her "I look to you" album. Whitney does her.. as I call it, "Good Singing" on this song. Go jam.
Favorite line: "I know somebody's gonna make love to this song tonight." Well then.
2. Greatest Love | Musiq Soulchild
The horns are everything at the beginning to me. Musiq's falsetto is just...
Favorite line: "Started from the lyrics till we found the verses that can bridge us through."

3. When I wake up | Jill Scott
This song breathes life into my everytime I hear it. Jilll and her band SLAY on this song.
.Favorite line: "But when I wake up, everything I went through will be beautiful."
4. You Brought the Sunshine | The Clark Sisters
My favorite gospel group of ALL time.. This song brings a smile to my face everytime I hear it.
Favroite line: "You gave me peace, you gave me grace.."
5. SkyTrak | Alpha.live and Kenye Fudiyah
Alpha.live is a premiere lyricst and artist from my hometown, Indianapolis IN. This song in particilar is just.. well sexy. All about a crush on THAT one.. JAM
Favorite line: "I feel a way when I'm missing your call backs."

Grab these songs and JAM I do!

Love

2011-11-27T11:33:00.000-05:00

The love we give away is the only love we keep.
-Elbert Hubbard

Truth.

November 1, 2011

2011-11-01T11:22:00.002-04:00

11/1/11
Pretty Cool huh...?
New beginnings today?
Perfect date to start fresh.

Thankful Thursday

2011-10-20T09:35:00.002-04:00

For everything.

Fall {boots}

2011-10-18T11:02:00.000-04:00

FALL IS HERE! Finally!
The weather in Indianapolis has finally turned Fall like. We had 80 degree days last week!
Today, the high will be 55!
I present to you.. my addiction for Fall.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Monday Music

2011-10-10T13:43:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday beautiful ones!
It's Music Monday, thought I would start the week off with one of my favorite artists.
Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. One the best song writers of the R&B genre.
"When can I see you again" shuffled on my ipod today and it sent me IN! Homeboy was hurting in this song
This song here.. screams of love lost, and trying to get back to where you were.
Lyrics like.. "When do the tears stop running over, when does you get over it begin?"
Jam and then go love on somebody.
Peace,
Candace

Babyface-When can I see you again

Monday Motivation

2011-10-03T13:35:00.002-04:00

I needed to see this.

Rainbows and storms

2011-10-01T21:22:00.001-04:00

I was having a rough day... I was literally going through a storm while driving through a storm.
and then I saw this.
Rainbows, reminders of God's Promises.

5 Random Songs Wednesday

2011-09-28T12:32:00.000-04:00

Double post day!
Whoooooooooooooooooop!
Hit shuffle on the iPod and this is what I got.

5 Random Songs
1- "Holding Back The Years"- Simply Red
This song makes me jam. Then think. Then cry.
2-"You Don't Know My Name"-Alicia Keys
Oh man... Have you ever wanted to make THAT phone call.. Oh just me? Ok.
3-"Get Like Me"- David Banner
2008's anthem. Have you ever seen a Chevy with the butterfly doors?
4- "No One"- Geroge Benson & Rachelle Ferrell
This song is magical. From George Benson on instruments to Rachelle's melodic voice. Please take a listen.
5-"The Dip"-Goodie Mob
My love of Georgia bred hip hop runs deeeeeeep. Goodie Mob gives me everything I need on this song.

Hope y'all jammed today. I know I will.

Wednesday Wisdom

2011-09-28T09:57:00.001-04:00

Friday Fun | Apple Pie Martini

2011-09-23T16:09:00.000-04:00

1 1/2 parts Vanilla Liqueur

1 part Vodka
2 parts apple cider
1 tsp cinnamon
squeeze of lime
Preparation:
Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake well.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
***Extra garnish- Garnish with graham cracker crust!
Extra Extra Special- add a dolop of caramel in the bottom for an extra special treat.

Yummy Goodness | Gooey Buns

2011-09-14T22:23:00.000-04:00

I'm a fan of brunch. Really. Brunch is.. special.
That being said, check out one of my favorite yummies (yes its a word) that I order when I brunch.

My Fall Wardobe | Casual style

2011-09-08T10:14:00.000-04:00

I love t-shirts.
My wardobe for fall will be the following

Things I love | Shoes & Purses

2011-09-01T13:50:00.000-04:00

Wore these last Friday.. I twirled! :)

Wednesday Wisdom

2011-08-24T11:51:00.001-04:00

Random Wednesday | 5 Songs

2011-08-17T10:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday.
5 random songs in my ipod right now... I hit shuffle and this is what I got.. with a few lyrics that I like to sing.. out loud. :)

1. Bilal- "Fastlane" | "It's too late for him now living out on the ground."
2. Ryan Leslie- "Quicksand" | "I'm anticipated in every touch, But then I'm hoping that it doesn't show too much."
3. Aaliyah featuring Tank-"Come over" | "I know it's late... but you're on my mind"
4. Evanescence- "Bring me to life" | "Breathe into me and make me real bring me to life."
5. India.Arie- "Good Man" | "You were a blessing, there was no guessing you were the one."

Music Monday | Lyrics that move me

2011-08-08T15:43:00.000-04:00

Just a little song that helps me make it through my rough patches...
"Hear My Call"

Here I am again asking questions,
Waiting to be moved.
I am so unsure of my perception,
What I thought I knew I don't seem to
Where is the turn so I can get back to what I believe in?
Back to the old me and
[Chorus]
God, please hear my call.
I am afraid for me.
Love has burned me raw
I need your healing
Please, please, please.
[Verse 2]

I am such a fool
How did I get here?
Played by all the rules
Then they changed
I am but a child to your vision
Standing in the cold and the rain
Lost here in the dark
I can't see my foot to take a step,
What is happening?
Oh, this hurts so bad. I can hardly breathe.
I just want to leave so...
God, please hear my call.
I am afraid for me.
Love has burned me raw
I need your healing
Please,
God, please hear my call.
I am afraid for me.
Love has burned me raw
I need your healing

Monday Motivation | Think Positive

2011-08-01T10:29:00.000-04:00

Music Monday | 5 Random Songs

2011-07-25T15:29:00.000-04:00

1. Cross My Mind- Jill Scott
2. Yaweh- Mali Music
3. Pretty Girls- Eric Roberson
4. SkyTrak- Alpha.live
5. Roni- Bobby Brown

Jam!

Thought of day | Perserve

2011-07-19T13:54:00.002-04:00

Monday Motivation | Love you

2011-07-18T16:23:00.000-04:00

Lyrics that move me | Bilal

2011-07-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, wish I saw the exit sign first

Sometimes, wish I knew the truth without search

Sometimes, I wish I could go where I never been

See what I never saw, do what I never did

Or walk before I could crawl

{Bilal, Sometimes}

Happy Birthday to me!

2011-07-03T18:09:00.000-04:00

27 years ago today, I made my entrance into the world.
I'm blessed and so thankful to see this day.
A heart full of love and a life worth living.
Happy Birthday Candace.
Love,
Candace

Black Music Month: It's all about us

2011-06-30T09:47:00.000-04:00

June is over. Today is the last day of June and I for one am a little sad to see it go.
For the past few years, the month of June has been known as Black Music Month, and that is something I am truly proud of.
I hope over the last 30 days you have been enriched with great music from your favorite artists... I know I have.
Over the past 30 days, artists like, Jill Scott, Beyonce, The Foriegn Exchange, Pitbull, Big Sean.. and several others have shared awesome music with us.
I hope you found something you loved, I know I did.

New Music Tuesday

2011-06-28T21:21:00.000-04:00

The Foreign Exchange (Nicolay & Phonte)
released Dear Friends: An evening with Friends today.
Grab it here
That is all.

Music Monday : Reminder

2011-06-20T14:24:00.002-04:00

Pick this up tomorrow.
Really. Get it!!!!

Music Monday | Listen IN Jilly From Philly

2011-06-13T10:15:00.000-04:00

*SCREAMS* Jilly is back Ya'll!
Listen in! NPR wants you to check out Jill Scott's latest release.. Check it out here NPR-Jill Scott
Jilly From Philly is back with her new album 'Light of the Sun" debuting on June 21'st Pre-Order the album here: Jilly From Philly

Don't say I didn't ever gift you with something.
Happy Monday lovelies.

Monday Motivation

2011-06-06T10:10:00.002-04:00

New Me

2011-05-31T10:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday folks...
Just wanted to report I'm currently down 32 pounds since January.
INSERT :::HAPPY DANCE:::
I've lost two dress sizes, one shoe size, and two friends. :)
Life is good and getting healthy is grand.

Happy Birthday Miles!

2011-05-26T14:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Miles...
Because of you, I jam.

Just in case you've never jammed.. Check this out..
Miles Davis 'Round Midnight

Monday Motivation | Dream

2011-05-23T09:59:00.002-04:00

I dream every night. I hope you do too...

Dreams are the touchsotnes of our character.
-Henry David Thoreau

In the city | The tale of a stolen camera

2011-05-19T14:18:00.000-04:00

I took a vacation {Screams, dances, shouts} Last week, I had the pleasure of vacationing in the great state of New York. I stepped out in the city to enjoy the sun. My husband stole my camera (tee, hee) and took this shot of me. I’m pleased to share it with you. Kudos Mr.

The Foreign Exchange | TONIGHT

2011-05-06T15:43:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite bands will be in MY CITY, TONIGHT, AND I WILL BE IN THE PLACE!

Phonte+Nicolay along with Zo!+Sy Smith will be in the building tonight performing hits from their third release "Authenticity" If you've never had a chance to experience the joy that is the Foreign Exchange check them out here
Hopefully I'll get a chance to snap a few pics...

Yummy Eats | Lemon Squares

2011-04-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

Yummy for Summer...
Lemon Squares

Ingredients:
Crust:

1/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons butter or stick margarine, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
Topping:
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons powdered sugar

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°.
To prepare the crust, beat 1/4 cup granulated sugar and the butter at medium speed of a mixer until creamy. Lightly spoon 1 cup flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Gradually add 1 cup flour to sugar mixture, beating at low speed until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Gently press mixture into bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes; cool on a wire rack.
To prepare topping, beat eggs at medium speed until foamy. Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar and next 5 ingredients (3/4 cup granulated sugar through salt), and beat until well-blended. Pour mixture over partially baked crust. Bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or until set. Cool on wire rack. Sift powdered sugar evenly over top.

HAPPY EASTER!

2011-04-24T20:29:00.000-04:00

HE HAS RISEN! HE LIVES!
Death, Hell and the grave were overcame.
Thank you Jesus. You could have said no.
All because you loved.

Picture of the Day: {Spring}

2011-04-19T11:37:00.002-04:00

Wednesday Wisdom | Challenges

2011-04-13T09:17:00.000-04:00

"Challenges make you discover things about yourself that you never really knew."
{Cicely Tyson & Phylicia Rashad}

Wednesday Wisdom | Kindness

2011-04-06T14:09:00.000-04:00

"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention."

{Oscar Wilde}

We Remember

2011-04-04T16:12:00.000-04:00

43 years ago today| April 4, 1968 a dreamer was shot down.
The dreamer may have fallen but the dream did not.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We thank you for your dream. Your work was not in vain.
Thank you for dreaming, and believing.

Wednesday Wisdom | Love

2011-03-30T10:28:00.002-04:00

We love because it's the only true adventure.
--Nikki Giovanni

Yummy Goodness | Mojito Mousse

2011-03-23T09:55:00.000-04:00

Mojito mousse for 8

1 tbsp gelatin
2/3 cup lime juice (~ 6 - 7 limes)
3/4 cup brown sugar
5 eggs, separated
2 - 3 tbsp white rum
1 cup whipping cream, chilled
2 handfuls fresh mint leaves
lime slices to decorate

Soften the gelatin in a little warm water.
In a small pan, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Add the lime juice and 1/2 cup brown sugar and stir over a low heat until the mixture becomes like heavy cream in consistency (might take between 5 - 10 minutes).
The mixture might curdle at the beginning, but don't let that intimidate you - it will come nicely together.
When you reached the right consistency, take away from heat and stir in the gelatin.
Add the liquor and mix. Pour the mixture into a metalic bowl and let it float in a basin of cold water to reach room temperature.
Finely chop the mint leaves and add them to the mixture once it has cooled down.
Now beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
Whip the cream until soft, add the remaining 1/4 cup of brown sugar and whip again until stiff.
Gently fold the egg whites into the cream. Add the lime mixture, one third at a time, stiring gently.
Pour the mousse into serving glasses, cover with cling film and refrigerate for
at least 1 hour.
To serve, decorate with mint leaves, lime slices or lime zest

Music Monday | Lyrics that move me

2011-03-21T12:13:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite Foreign Exchange songs....

Just imagine the possibilities (talking about the possibilities)
If you would only let down your guard I always say my love is easy babe
You don’t have to make it so hard (so hard yeah) I know you wont nothing else
But you can try and tell yourself its all a game (all a game)
I know you been only wishing For a love that goes the distance
Call my name Cause I am in love with you
{Foreign Exchange, Maybe she’ll dream of me}

Music Monday | 5 Random Songs

2011-03-14T16:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday..
I turned my ipod on shuffle today and just let it play, here are 5 songs that played.
1. Stone in Love | Journey
2. We are Broken |Paramore
3. I choose you | Brian Reeves & Heart after God
4. Liberation | Outkast
5. You make me smile | PJ Morton

Check these 5 out, tell me what you think!

Monday Motivation | Never give up

2011-03-07T11:43:00.000-05:00

{image via google}

Wednesday Wisdom | Prayer

2011-03-02T09:26:00.002-05:00

I believe that praying for someone else is one of the most selfless yet rewarding things we can experience.

New Music Tuesday | Marsha Ambrosius

2011-03-01T12:53:00.000-05:00

New Music Tuesday!! ::JUMPS for joy:

I am truly excited about today. Marsha Ambrosious, formerly of the duo Floetry released her debut album today. I'm a fan. HUGE Fan. I'm still hoping, wishing and praying that Floetry gets back together.

Anywhoo..
Check out Marsha's album here: Late Nights, Early Mornings
My favorites from the release are " Far away", "Lose myself", "Your hands" and "Butterflies"
Check her out! Support good music!

Music Monday | Happy Birthday Nina!

2011-02-21T14:26:00.000-05:00

Nina Simone,

born was born this day in 1933. She was a singer, pianist, songwriter, jazz great and civil rights activist. Happy Birthday Ms. Simone, your voice still whispers in our ears, and pulls are our hearts.

I'm grateful to know the love that is your voice.

Cocktail Fridays

2011-02-18T09:14:00.000-05:00

TGIF!!
It's Friday, the week has been long, stressful, but we made it! So, to toast to the start of the weekend, I thought I would share a recipe that I love to enjoy.

Serendipity

1 oz. Vanilla Vodka
1 oz. Pineapple Juice
Instructions
Pour Vanilla Vodka over ice in a cocktail glass.
Fill with pineapple juice, stir, garnish with a Pineapple wedge
Enjoy.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T15:09:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day loves...

Spend it in love, either with your self or someone special.

Spread Love.

{image via Google/Flickr}

Music Monday | J Dilla, Happy Birthday Sir

2011-02-07T08:53:00.001-05:00

He would have been 37 today.

The musical genius that was J Dilla, Jay Dee, or Dilla as I call him, was born James Dewitt Yancey this day in 1974. His gift is unmatched, and the music world still feels the lost of this great, who passed away February 10th, 2006 with complications from Lupus
Here's to you Dilla, the gifts you left are jewels, and everytime I hear them, I'm amazed and captured all over again. Happy Birthday Sir. Now mix, with the heavenly choir.

Go Red!

2011-02-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Februray is American Heart Month Go here for more information. AHA
Today February 4th is Go Red! For Women Go Red!
Today, women all over the US are sporting RED in support of healthy hearts, and education about heart disease that impacts thousands of women each year.
Do your part: Get Educated, Spread Awareness, and GO Red!

Black IS Beautiful | Langston Hughes

2011-02-01T12:34:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Mr. Hughes!
Langston Hughes, African American poet and playwright, was born on this day, February 1, in 1902.
Thank you! and Yes, Black IS Beautiful.

The night is beautiful,

So the faces of my people.
The stars are beautiful,
So the eyes of my people
Beautiful, also, is the sun.
Beautiful, also, are the souls of my people
— Langston Hughes (My People)

Music Monday | Lyrics that move me

2011-01-24T15:10:00.000-05:00

Just to mention your name

Jesus every knee shall bow
Jesus let the
Tears fall down
As we blessed your holy name
Without your love I see
There is no me
Without your grace I see
There is no love
{Debra Killings, Jesus}

Wednesday Wisdom

2011-01-19T11:32:00.002-05:00

Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it. Establish your priorities and go to work.

– H. L. Hunt

New Music | KontrabandMuzik

2011-01-18T15:12:00.000-05:00

Gotta love New Music Tuesday!

The band I blogged about month's ago.. Kontraband Muzik,

released their debut album today.

Grab it! Support Good music, this band jams hard!

Check it out...

Kontraband Muzik Album

Monday Motivation | Martin Luther King Jr.

2011-01-17T09:28:00.000-05:00

Today we honor a man who had a dream.
Martin Luther King Jr.
We thank you. Without your dream, our works may have never seen the light of day.

"I refuse to accept the view . . .
that the bright daybreak of
peace and brotherhood can
never become a reality."
-Martin Luther King Jr.

One Year Later | Haiti

2011-01-12T11:47:00.000-05:00

Thousands dead. Millions left homeless.
They still need help rebuilding.

(image via Time Magazine)

To help provide support and funds to our brothers and sisters still in Haiti, contact

Red Cross

Unicef

CARE

Yele Haiti

Lyrics that move me | Bilal

2011-01-07T10:05:00.002-05:00

You'd kill yourself for recognition,
Kill yourself to never ever stop
You broke another mirror,
You're turning into something you are not
Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry
Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry
Drying up in conversation,
You will be the one who cannot talk
All your insides fall to pieces,
You just sit there wishing you could still make love
They're the ones who'll hate you
When you think you've got the world all sussed out
They're the ones who'll spit at you,
You will be the one screaming out
-Bilal "High and Dry"
Listen Here: Bilal "High & Dry"

Wednesday Wisdom

2011-01-05T08:58:00.002-05:00

"Turn your wounds into wisdom."
--Oprah Winfrey

Things I love: Shoes

2011-01-04T13:48:00.000-05:00

I want.

Good Eats| Peanut Butter Fudge

2010-12-31T18:44:00.000-05:00

The easiest Peanut Butter Fudge EVER!!

(image via Google)

Super Easy Fudge
2 sticks of butter (I used salted)
1 and 1/2 cups of peanut butter
3 heaping cups of Powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1 heaping tablespoon of Brown Sugar (I used Light)

Microwave butter and peanut butter for 2 minutes
Stir in brown sugar and vanilla and microwave for 2 minutes
Stir in cups of the powdered sugar slowly, mixture will be lumpy, I used a wire whisk to smooth out lumps.
Continue slowly adding the powdered sugar until it is all mixed in.
Spread mixture into a lined or sprayed pan. (I pressed and covered my fudge with a sheet of wax paper for a smooth look.
Cool for 2 hours.
Cut into squares and enjoy!

Wednesday Wisdom

2010-12-29T09:58:00.002-05:00

{image via Google Images}

Music Monday | Lyrics that move me

2010-12-20T16:12:00.000-05:00

These are lyrics from a song by one of my favorite artists- Yahzarah

"You know my story and love me anyway, going and coming you are my day to day"
Serious.
Check her out here: WhoisYahzarah

Comfort Food: Chicken & Noodles/Dumplings

2010-12-15T09:42:00.000-05:00

It's cold! Cold weather requires comfort food. That's just my opinion.. just thought you should know.
One of my favotrite cold weather dishes to make is Chicken & Dumplings or Chicken & Noodles
This recipe is super simple.

3 Chicken Breasts
1 Small box of Kitchen Basics Chicken Stock
2 and 1/2 cups of water
1 can of Carnation Milk
1 package of Reames Frozen Egg Noodles or Dumplings
1 cup of frozen Onion, green pepper, and celery blend (I buy this exclusively at Kroger)
1 can or half a bag frozen of mixed vegetables
1 Package of Chicken Gravy
1 Package of Mushroom Gravy
Salt & Pepper to season

Poach the three chicken breasts in 2 and 1/2 cups of water and box of chicken stock
until tender. Remove from water, drain, shred, and set aside.
Reserve liquid.
Bring reserved liquid to a boil, add vegetables, onions, peppers and celery blend and chicken.
season with salt and pepper. Boil for 5-7 mintues.
Add both gravy mixes, Carnation Milk and stir to combine

Reduce heat to Medium
Add Packaged noodles or dumplings and allow to cook until tender. (Typically about 30-45 mins)
Stir several times to make sure all ingredients combine.

Serve piping hot

Free Music!! | PJ Morton Mixtape

2010-12-09T10:20:00.000-05:00

Whoever said you can't get anything good for FREE cleary is missing out.
This past Tuesday the amazingly talented singer/songwriter/awesome dude and member of Maroon 5,

PJ Morton released his mixtape "Independently Major" for FREE.99 Via his website PJ Morton Go GRAB IT!!! If you're a fan of good music, you need this in your life. Yes, NEED!
Grab it here PJ Mixtape

{Image via Google Images}

Monday Motivation

2010-12-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T15:25:00.000-05:00

December 1st is World AIDS Day.

Know Your Status. Get Tested. Stay Protected.

AIDS & HIV don't discriminate, it CAN happen to you.

(Image via Google)

Music Monday: Anita Baker

2010-11-29T11:08:00.000-05:00

My favorite alto ever...
Jam!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3NKFiUeb58

Wednesday Wisdom

2010-11-24T08:43:00.000-05:00

"What the world really needs is more love and less paperwork."
- Pearl Bailey

Music Monday: Throwback jam

2010-11-22T17:59:00.000-05:00

Wednesday Wisdom

2010-11-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

"Where there is woman there is magic"
--Ntozake Shange

Things I love: New Kicks

2010-11-14T13:00:00.000-05:00

It's true. I'm addicted to shoes. It's just something about a cute shoe.. whether it be a pump, boot, bootie, sandal, or sneaker. I love cute shoes!
Check out these beauties:

Just thought you should know

2010-11-08T13:42:00.002-05:00

Election Day

2010-11-02T12:40:00.000-04:00

Excercise your right.

VOTE.

2 years in

2010-10-25T13:39:00.000-04:00

2 years ago today, I married my bestfriend, ace, right hand man and biggest fan.
Here's to us Mr. Wylie, Happy 2nd Anniversary.

Music Monday: The Foreign Exchange

2010-10-18T09:45:00.000-04:00

Phonte + Nicolay= The Foreign Exchange.

The grammy nominated duo released their 3rd album Authenticity last Tuesday, and let me assure you, it is soon to be a CLASSIC. Awesome production, and clean writing make this FEMusic album one of my favorites.

Favorites from the release are "Maybe she'll dream of me" ''Laughing at your plans'' "All Roads" and "Fight for Love"

Grab this. NOW. Soul Music Lives.

Wednesday Wisdom

2010-10-13T09:05:00.002-04:00

If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive.

Audre Lorde

Monday Motivation

2010-10-11T10:47:00.002-04:00

Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Get Pinked | Be informed.

2010-10-03T21:40:00.000-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in honor of that, Women and men all over the world are getting "pinked" Wearing pink, blogging about pink, walking for pink and most of all educating other women about pink. The pink ribbon is the symbol for breast cancer awareness and actitvism- We wear this ribbon in remembrance, to show our love, but most of all to show our support for a diease that will take the lives of some 200,000 ( http://www.breastcancer.org/ cases of breast cancer that will be detected just this year alone.
Take the time to educate yourself about this disease that is silencing woman earlier and earlier everyday.

Get Pinked. Be Informed.
Check out these links for more information
http://ww5.komen.org/
http://www.sharingcourage.com/
http://www.nbcam.org/
http://www.breastcancer.org/

Things I love {pretty shoes}

2010-09-28T15:30:00.000-04:00

Early Fall present to myself:

Good Eats : Roasted Squash

2010-09-16T10:24:00.000-04:00

Ready for Fall eats? I am.
Check this yummy recipe out.

Honey Roasted Squash
1/4 cup liquid honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 acorn squash (2 1/2 lbs total) or 1 butternut squash (2 1/4 lbs)

Whisk first 5 ingredients together in a large bowl.
Halve each squash crosswise, peel & scoop out seeds.
Cut into 1 inch thick rings & toss in honey mixture until well coated.
Arrange squash rings on a greased, foil lined, rimmed baking sheet & drizzle with honey mixture.
Bake in preheated 350F oven, turning once & basting with liquid, until tender & golden- about 30 to 40 minutes.

For Colored Girls: Get ready

2010-09-15T22:42:00.001-04:00

For Colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is not enuf.
Tyler Perry has an awesome cast to bring this play turned book, turned movie to life.
11/5/10- Be there.
This trailer gave me chills.
Enjoy

Monday Motivation

2010-09-13T10:32:00.001-04:00

Patience alwasys hitches a ride with understanding.
The wise man says, "A man of understanding holds his tongue" (Proverbs 11:12 NIV)
-A love with giving
Max Lucado

Wednesday Wisdom

2010-09-08T09:01:00.002-04:00

"Our visions begin with our desires."--Audre Lorde

New Music: The Foreign Exchange

2010-09-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

New Music!!! Check out this single from The Foreign Exchange

who will release their third album this fall.
Oh.. and it's a FREE DOWNLOAD! Foreign Exchange-Maybe She'll dream of me
Enjoy!

Photo of the Day

2010-09-01T18:49:00.000-04:00

I made Baked Macaroni and Cheese and decided to pull out my camera.....
Sharp Cheddar. Yummo-O

5 years later

2010-08-29T19:40:00.000-04:00

A look back, Five years ago today Hurricane Katrina made landfall in state of Lousiana, forever changing the lives of hundreds and thousands of people across the United States.
August 29th marks the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. This storm is now known as the single most destructive Hurricane to hit US soil.
The images below are only a small picture of the damage the storm caused the gulf.
5 years later, rebuilding has occured, and familes have been united, but there is STILL plenty of work to be done.

Album Review: Y'anna Crowley

2010-08-24T12:30:00.000-04:00

The Season Two winner of BET's hit gospel sing-off competition Sunday's Best winner Y'anna Crowley

released her debut album The Promise today, Tuesday August 24th.
Beautifully writter and perfectly arranged Y'anna's debut album is sure to be a blessing to music lovers young and old.
Her vocal styling is pure joy. The elegant runs, serious squalls, and her slight vibrato makes me smile from ear to ear.
Pick this album up!! Trust me, you will enjoy it!
My favorites from the release are: "You're still God" "Well done", "Stronger" and "Looking toward heaven"

Be blessed!

Shot of the Week: All grown up

2010-08-20T13:02:00.000-04:00

Meet Camylle. The young woman that used to be my little sister. She's now all grown up.

Morning Devotion: Damaged Goods

2010-08-16T09:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday!
I had to share this small portion of my morning devotion, I hope it blesses you as it did me.

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Psalm 51:17 (NIV)
Don't judge too quickly. My damage has not defined me...but, it is refining me. I may be at the bottom of the life's bin, but Jesus paid as high a price for those of us at the bottom as He did for those that are proudly displayed on the top shelf.

Music Review: Kool's Bazaar

2010-08-12T14:53:00.000-04:00

Fact: Indianapolis has a fairly small indie music scene. A few months ago, well more like almost a year ago, I kept hearing about a, awesome jazz/neo-soul/ hip-hop/spoken word group by the name of Kool's Bazaar, that was TEARING up the Indianapolis music scene. I wanted to hear this group, YET everytime I wanted to hear them, I kept missing out. FINALLY a few months ago- I was able to catch the smooth, cool, awesome, ecelctic sound that is Kool's Bazaar.
Please, Please, Please, Check them out! Kool's Bazaar

Kool's Bazaar released their debut album: The Kool's Bazaar Experience recently and let me tell you: IT IS GIVING ME LIFE!

The live band is simply awesome. The lead singer Nas, thrills me with her riffs, and runs, and her unique sound.

My favorite song on the album is: Temptations
Check them out: Support Local Music! cdbaby-Kool's Bazaar