What really happens in that room?

‘Everyone Out’: Cardinals are locked into Sistine Chapel until one emerges as Pope

Titles like this intrigue me. What exactly does this mean? If you are not a witness or locked into the room during this process, what do you think happens while a new Pope is chosen? This is when my mind goes on its own journey of how the Pope is chosen. Just reading the headline, I’m thinking there is an intense sword fight going on between the 20 candidates that only the other cardinals get to watch. Is it a race to see who can pray the fastest? Lol (Forgive me in no way am I trying to offend anyone, its just been the discussion of the day at work). Okay, Do they paper, rock, scissors for hours or keep voting until its unanimous? (Hee Hee Hee) When the Pope is chosen white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel. I’m imagining its really great special effects from tear gas and hand grenades used during these fights to claim the throne. There is no cameras and all we can go by is what we have been told in history and overtime. But just like a child my imagination goes crazy of what is actually taking place in that room. Is there snickering, whispering, and hatin going on? Or is anyone in there rolling their eyes at who the 20 top candidates are? You can ask soo many questions. I really do know the process of choosing a new Pontif, but want to know what you imagine happens behind those closed doors.

Macy’s Celebrates Black History Month

Last Thursday I had the honor of attending Macy’s DC 2013 Black History Month Celebration, honoring the life work and celebrating 100 years of photographer/film maker Gordon Parks with the American Black Film Festival.

This was one of those events I’m glad I did not miss. The setup was lovely with the beautifully soulful sounds of The Chelsey Green Project as guests arrived. This album is being added to my collection ASAP! She and her band are the bomb and she can do some amazing things with that violin. We were served ho’r derves and wine throughout the evening. The wine was courtesy of Esterlina Vineyards of California. This is the only black owned vineyard in the valleys of California, check them out.
When my sister IChooseTheSun and I arrived at Macy’s, Mr. Parks work was displayed throughout the main level of the store.

But his story of dedication, hardwork, and resilience rang out through the crowd. And oh there was a crowd!
Once the panel discussion began there was standing room only. The panel was introduced and moderated by the lovely Jummy Olabanji of ABC7. The evening’s panel consisted of actor Malik Yoba, award winning cinematographer/film maker Hans Charles, and award winning writer/film director Cole Wiley.

These gentlemen expressed what Gordon Parks meant to them as individuals and their careers. They discussed a man with a vision who took charge of his destiny. A black man who came from nothing, yet made the world see through his eyes. Gordon Parks became the first African American staff photographer for LIFE Magazine in 1948 and the first major african american film director in Hollywood for “The Learning Tree” in 1969. But for those of you that didn’t know Mr. Parks by those accomplishments, we all know him for being the creative force behind the 1971 film “Shaft”.
Per the panel discussion African Americans have come a long way in the film industry. On screen and even making their way to the executive offices behind the scenes. But there is still more work to be done. We all play a role in how much further we go as a people. We can stay complacent in where we are or we can strive for greatness. We have greatness in black film! Although it has not become a priority within the film industry, we as a people have to be willing to support it. The question was raised, “What does black film mean to you?” Wether defined yet or not, are you willing to support it? I know I am! Let’s keep the legacy going and support our black films, writers, and directors. Thank you Gordon Parks for paving the way and Macy’s for this extraordinary event!!

Checkout my sister’s IChooseTheSun post inclusive of a storify recap of our live coverage.

I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere provided me with compensation for this post about Macy’s Black History Month. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own.

Checklist for the 57th Presidential Inauguration Weekend

As we all prepare and get ready to celebrate for this weekend full of events. How are you keeping up with everything going on? First time in DC? Trying to map out your daily transportation? Want to keep up with the days events? Here are a few tips for those new to our fabulous City of Washington, DC and ways you can stay in the know.

First things first. Transportation. The best way to get around town during this busy weekend will be the Metro. Parking and the thought of trying to drive through these streets with the overwhelming number of people flocking to the area this weekend is crazy. Make sure you map out your routes. Add an extra 30-45 minutes to your ride time because Metro will be packed. If you have a smartphone download the Metro Apps: Embark DC Metro, iTrans DC Metro and DC Metro Map. Also on twitter be sure to follow @SecretService, @metroinaug, and @ddotdc for up to date traffic information.

Most people will be following their friends or favorite celebrities on twitter and Facebook to stay in the know. But for a weekend like this weekend that may not be enough. For the first time the Presidential Inauguration has an App of its own. This is a must have to navigate your way through a calendar of events, balls, galas, parties, and special ceremonies as well as a live stream of the President’s swearing in. Get your 2013 Official Inaugural App here 57th Presidential Inaugural App.

Since you’ll be in the midst of our National monuments, museums, and tourists attractions. Why not see everything there is to see in this beautiful Capital of our Great United States. Especially when its fabulous an free. Download the Smithsonian Visitors Guide App. This app includes Maps/GPS, self guided tours, events calendar, a free presidential tour, and know before you go Inauguration information. Saturday, being the National Day of Service this will keep you abreast of all activities that you can be apart of as well. There are plenty of ways to get out and serve adult and kid friendly alike.

If you have decided to just wing your visit and didn’t bother to find a place to stay. I’m pretty sure there are still ads on DC Craigslist but you can also check hotel availability on Washington DC Guide.

There is alot of walking to look forward to with large crowds hovering in every directions. If you are elderly, disabled, or in need of transportation assistance ScootAround offers daily scooter and wheelchair rentals so that you can navigate the city comfortably. You can even rent segways from SegsintheCity or BikeandRoll.

Also for all of you folks headed down to the U.S. Capitol to witness this historic event, here is the list of prohibited items within the ticket viewing area:

· Firearms and ammunition (either real or simulated)
· Explosives of any kind (including fireworks)
· Knives, blades, or sharp objects (of any length), including pocket or hand tools, such as the “Leatherman”
· Mace and/or pepper spray
· Sticks, poles, or sign supports
· Packages, backpacks, large bags, suitcases
· Thermoses or coolers
· Strollers
· Umbrellas
· Laser pointers
· Signs or posters
· Animals (other than service animals)
· Alcoholic beverages
· Aerosol sprays
· Glass containers
· Air horns
· Non-ADA portable chairs
· Other items that may pose a threat to the security of the event as determined by and at the discretion of the security screeners.

Ladies clean out your purses, gentleman empty your pockets. If you are bringing small children be prepared to carry them and bundle them up. It’s going to be a long day. So keep your phones charged, apps ready, hands and feet warmers accessible. Arrive early due to various required security screenings and street closures. Be prepared to celebrate a man and his dream and a man who is helping us live out part of that dream!

Happy Birthday Dr. King and Congratulations again Mr. President!!!

So Sorry Connecticut!

My heart is heavy from the senseless killing spree that just took place in Connecticut. As a mother, It hurts to know that others have lost their young and innocent children by sending them to get an education. The past few years it seems as though these types of incidents are on the rise. These angry, miserable, unhappy punks bring their rage to a public stage taking innocent lives for what? What have they done to you?

It hurts me because we as parents work hard to send our children to school for social and educational development but now have to be worried with, how do we protect them at the same places where we assume they are safe. I cannot fathom being one of these families receiving that call. And what about the kids affected from witnessing such a violent act. These are babies, Elementary school children. These types of situations are what is turning or school facilities into prison facilities. So I guess now our young children will be housed in schools with barbed wires, metal detectors, surveillance cameras, security check points and enclosed in bullet proof glass. WHY???

These are smiling faces still filled with nursery rhymes and morning sunshine. Happy to go to school and learn new things and meet new friends. Now their friends are gone, their lives stolen and forever shattered.

God Bless Every Family affected by today’s events. Wrap and Keep those precious little angels that were targeted and those that had to watch.

I Am a Mother with 2 children in Elementary school. I visited them at school today during my lunch break and got back to work to hear this breaking news. It Hurts! It Scares You! To know that you can do everything as a parent and still not be able to protect your children.

We Have To Do More! We Have To Do Better! This IS NOT ACCEPTABLE!

God Bless America

Yes I stayed up! We all stayed up watching coverage of the Election. We laughed, we cried (I cried and he laughed at me) lol, we dougied. I know we are Bammas, right? But I am a proud American right now! Tonight was clear that democracy can work. Our votes were cast and our voices heard.

TWO TERMS!!!! (Sorry) Black People we got 4 more years! Lol! Not saying that because I feel entitled to anything just because he is black. But for the fact he is the First Black President and now he is the First Black President to serve 2 terms. A Force to be reckoned with, a man with a dream, a man with a purpose. Disliked for wanting us all to succeed. Voting for me was important because of my children. The decisions we make now will have the largest impact on our future. It is our responsibility to pave the road for them to live out their American Dream. Now it’s time for us all to come together, to do our part as American citizens to help not just ourselves but our country succeed. Our Ancestors are probably looking like that scene in Barbershopwhen Jimmy and Isaac were beefing then somebody turned on Marvin Gaye and everybody started dancing. So I’m celebrating but not bragging because we have alot of work ahead of us. That’s right WE! President Obama was not alone in reclaiming his seat and we cannot abandon him throughout his second term. We must stand and fight with him. Support him and the best interests for our country and our future. So with that said, God Bless America!!!

Lets ALL make these next 4 years count!

I remember reciting this poem as a child and it is still relevant today.

I, Too, Sing America
by Langston Hughes

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I’ll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody’ll dare
Say to me,
“Eat in the kitchen,”
Then.

Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed—

I, too, am America.

VOTE- Exercise Your Right

I have been having some technical difficulties the past week, but I am forcing myself to work through it. I had to write this post just to tell people how important it is to VOTE.

I don’t care if you are sick, if you have to lug your kids/pets, if you have to take leave because your ignorant boss is not supportive in your civil right. Grab your cane, walker, wheelchair, blanket, extra pressure pills or insulin shot. So what if you don’t want to stand in the cold or the lines are too long. If you don’t have a ride hop on the bus, the train or walk. Also connect and network with people offering rides to polling places. Regardless to your obstacles or circumstance, if you have the right, exercise it. Today is the day we all can make a difference.

VOTE!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!!

Getting Them Involved- Election 2012

BARACK OBAMA! BARACK OBAMA! I hear kids yelling at our kids school. Some of them yell our presidents’ name like its a new dance. But do your children really understand the role of our president, how he gets there, and what decisions he has to make. Last night my son was asked to write about, what laws he would change as president and what he would discuss at his first debate? But I had to make sure he really understood the following before answering those questions:

– What is a President?

– How does a President become President?

– Do all countries have Presidents?

– What does their job include?

-What are big issues that our president has to focus on to keep the country running?

So before he started writing we sat down together and did some research on the Internet. We found a great interactive game on Scholastic.com called “If I Were President”. My son first learned that the role of President is not served alone and how they pick their team of advisors. He then had to read through 5 biographies to choose 3 people to help advise him. From there he had to balance the budget between Healthcare, Education, Environment, Military, and Crime Prevention. Then once he devised a balanced budget, he had to present his plan to the people. From there he received a Q&A session with the press on why he chose the advisors he chose and an explanation of the percentages chosen for his balanced budget. Once he completed this a news article was published on the decisions he made and weather the people felt comfortable with his choices as president. It was a great way for him to clearly understand why we watch the debates and the things that are being discussed. At that point he was ready to tackle his homework and write a clear response.

There is also in-depth information on the site about the election and the candidates to help your child understand everything that will take place in the process. Check out these sites with your kids. Help them to understand the power of voting and the role we as American citizens play in the well being of our country and our future.

If I Were President

Election 2012</a

Blog to Fight Childhood Hunger

In this day and age kids across America wake up hungry everyday. As a child even though times were tough my mom made sure we had breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I only viewed child hunger by the few infomercials that came on television. As an adult, child hunger is a lot closer to home than 25 years ago. But either way, we can do something about it. Share Our Strength , a campaign to end childhood hunger, has teamed up with Macaroni Grill giving bloggers and their subscribers a chance to make a difference during the Month of September. All you have to do is write about your favorite Italian style recipe and meals will be provided for those in need. Just 1 blog post through September 1st- September 30th can make a difference. Even though I am watching my figure, one thing I love is helping our children and this particular campaign is near and dear to my heart. And those that know me well……. know that me, kids, and food are a great combination.

My favorite Italian meal is a large pan of Lasagna. Which I usually make to last a few days. But with our hectic schedule I also like making sure I’m not preparing half the night. Thanks to one of my favorite television personalities, Giada, I have learned a great tip that will still keep the family happy. My family loved our new take on Lasagna and I still had time to spend on dessert. Try it and let me know what you think.

2 bags frozen 3 cheese tortellini

1bag fresh baby spinach

2 bags of italian style meatballs

2 cups of shredded Parmesan reggiano

2 bottles of your favorite tomato sauce (I prefer chunky)

1/3 cup olive oil

oregano

pinch of salt & pepper

1/2 garlic clove

Instead of your regular lasagna noodles, buy and keep packs of cheese tortellini in the freezer. No boiling involved. Cut your meatballs in half. Poor a surface layer of olive oil in your pan then start layering. Tortellini, meatballs, spinach, tomato sauce, and cheese. Keep layering and on your top layer of cheese, sprinkle oregano and a pinch of salt and pepper. (I like adding fresh pressed garlic to my olive oil for pasta dishes)

All I can say is this came out delicious and took no more than 20 minutes.
Share your favorite Italian dish and make a difference. Bloggers, write your post and send to macgrillgive@saegermediagroup.com. If you don’t blog, but want to support this magnificent campaign, head to your local Macaroni Grill or copy and paste the link into your browser http://www.macaronigrill.com/ and donate $2 and get $5 off your next meal. For my Tweeples and Instagrammers hashtag #macgrillgive to a message or photo of your favorite Macaroni Grill meal or share an artist inspired picture from the Mac Grill Give Facebook Gallery and another child in need will be connected to a meal. For every blog post Macaroni Grill will donate $50 to connect a child up to 500 meals. Everyone can get involved. Make sure you check the MacGrillGive site to find out the many ways you can help.

In this great country of ours no child should go hungry. Let’s make our voices heard ………”NO KID HUNGRY!!!!!!!!”

The Week the Women Went-ReCap

Tuesday night began the season premiere of Lifetime’s “The Week the Women Went”. If you were watching all the women over age 18 hopped on a train and chugged on out of town. Now the men seem very supportive until they are all alone. All I keep asking myself is what would these men do without their wives. Seriously children bouncing off the walls and their plates filled with ramen noodles, corn dogs and ranch dressing. When that camera scanned through the house, I know the mother of that household is going to lose her mind. Although they are still working to gain control of their situation, two of the fathers were smart and decided to camp out in one home facing this challenge together.

For me the two stories I will be following closely are the 24 year old Marine who decided to take care of his 31 year old girlfriend of 7 months 3 kids. I think this experiment will either make or break this relationship. He isn’t that far from a teenager himself and the two oldest are teenage girls. I don’t know how comfortable I would be with this situation but we will see how it works out. Also the families that have left their 13 year old daughters in charge of the family businesses. This experience should be full of life lessons and give them an idea of the work their mothers put in to their family’s livelihood. To sum it up the first 2 hours of the women being gone was like the scene in Daddy Day Care after they gave the kids all that sugar.

;

There is more to come like the men planning a pageant inclusive of making the girls dresses and doing make up. And the most intriguing is at the end of the last episode the night vision cameras captured one of the children getting up in the middle of the night, grabs a knife out the kitchen and walks back towards the bedrooms. Oh Lawd!! Tune in tomorrow night to Lifetime’s “The Week the Women Went” 10/9 Central. Tell me what you think!

Tune In-Lifetime’s New Reality Show

I dont know about you all, but I am super excited about Lifetime’s “The Week the Women Went” a BBC Worlwide Production.  If you have not seen the preview or heard about this new reality show/social experiment, you are missing out.  Basically all of the women skip town for a week leaving their husbands to tend to the kids, the house, businesses, any events and the town.  When I saw this preview, it gave me life.  I couldn’t stop laughing because you can tell some of these men are going to leave town their damn selves. This show looks like it will shake up the town.  I can’t wait and I hope this is not the only season. Evidently this show/experiment  has been tried in other countries but finally arrived on American soil according to several news releases.  I feel much won’t happen in a week but maybe a month. I would want to see these men get through a whole month and pay all the bills. Empty the refrigerator and make them do all the grocery shopping. Even them getting the whole household ready for back to school. Mother’s do it all and still stay within budget knowing everyone’s likes and dislikes.  Now I’m not saying all men are not capable but mommy’s and daddy’s manage things a little different. Either way tune-in! Get your popcorn ready and watch with your man, I know I will.

Just like in the Preview: “Women you can’t live with them, and you can’t live without them” Check the preview and tune in for the premiere next Tuesday, August 14th at 10/9 Central.

http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/the-week-the-women-went