I truly believe my upbringing has not only shaped and formed the person I am today but also the type of people I choose to date. My maternal and paternal families couldn’t be more different. My mother’s family were working class, devout Christians, that seemed to never judge people by their material possessions but more so by their merit and actions. They were truly down home, good people that would give their last for someone in need. Now my father’s family at first glance could be polar opposites. They were Caribbean immigrants that epitomized the E. Franklin Frazier’s Black Bourgeoisie. If you brought a date to a family function, you could rest assure their pedigree, career/school, and complexion would be under scrutiny. It wasn’t until I was in the 5th grade after spending time with them in New Orleans did I realize that my skin was much fairer than my other cousins and mother. I often overheard ‘Thank God he was blessed with the good genes... instead of them others.’ But back to my point I definitely think that this has shaped who I have chosen to date.
So back in September, I met a guy from Texas out and about here in Atlanta. So on the basis of a Texan bond and the need for people to hang out with here we formed a friendship. It didn't take long to realize being from Texas was one of the very few things we had in common… but I guess what they say opposites attract. His hood and quick to fight temper is quite hilarious and disturbing at the same time. I always have to ask him… what does that solve? The stories and experiences of his childhood often baffle me. So over the past 2 months our friendship has been just that friendship… until this weekend when he asked me if I would ever date someone like him.
We always make those broad, generic statements…of who we would and wouldn’t date. And while I slipped up once or twice in the past, I quickly got rid of those mistakes (yes they were mistakes but thank God for the life lessons). For some reason I have always been attracted to tall, light, educated, with careers and goals. Retail workers (unless you were store manager or higher), strippers, ghetto, porn stars, uneducated, and the have-nots (A couple of those would apply to my new friend)… would have never stood a chance at a long term commitment.
So how did I answer that question… I simply said I am not sure but I wouldn’t rule it out. Who knows maybe I am maturing and recognizing the faults from my classism, bourgeoisie upbring? But for now the friendship is working so I think I will leave it at that for awhile.
Growing up in Relationships
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 10:30 AM Labels: personal, relationships
Well Oprah took the high road this year and probably had the most noble of all of her Favorite Thing Giveaways.
Over the years, Oprah has given away cars, homes and much more, but nothing compares to today's giveaway! "I can honestly say that every gift I've ever given has brought at least as much happiness to me as it has to the person I've given it to," Oprah says. "That's the feeling I want to pass on to you." Every member of Oprah's audience is going home with $1,000 and a Sony DVD Handycam…but there's a catch.
Oprah is challenging more than 300 audience members to donate their money to a charitable cause."You're going to open your hearts, you're going to be really creative, and you're going to spend it all at once on one stranger or spend a dollar on every person," she says. "Imagine the
love and kindness you can spread with $1,000." --- taken from Oprah.com
After working in the nonprofit world for over 6 years and I must say that my prayers to God often include the wish to be in the financial position to help others. I, like Oprah, believe that feeling of happiness is unmatched. However at this point and time I am in no way in that position right now. I will say it was hard to top most of the 14 items that made my list in 2005, so just consider this year's list a continuation with just a few changes:
1. The inconsistency of the iTrip made me seek out another saviour from radio... luckily the helpful and quite attractive salesgirl at the Dunwoody BestBuy helped me find the Belkin TuneFM for Ipod<>A>.2. My new favorite cologne came from my best friend and when I tell you it not only smells great but it makes you feel good too... Bond No. 9 The Hamptons. After taking the last little corner he had left in his... I quickly made my way to Saks for my own.
3. We already know that I am not big on Christmas gifts, but on the rare occassion that I do give gifts I usually give something that could be considered a new family tradition started by my Grandmother when I was quite young. The Neiman Marcus Holiday Cakes, specifically the Liqueur Cakes. Now you can buy a single cake or what I tend to give the mini cake sampler of six individually-wrapped cakes which include Irish whiskey, apple pecan bourbon, chocolate champagne, lemon with vodka, vanilla rum, and amaretto cakes.
4. The JOQ Men's Spa in Midtown Atlanta. Early this summer I treated myself to the JOQ Bronze Spa Package that included a 50 minute massage, a facial and a manicure and pedicure. They successfully pull of a relaxing day spa for men without the 'girly' affects.
5. Grey's Anatomy is one of, if not the one, favorite show I must catch every week. It is great to see a show written and created by a black woman, with 4 main minority characters that isn't a bunch of joking and jiving or set in a ghetto with Shaniqua and her 4 kids.
6. After having a hamburger from 5 Guys... McDonalds and Burger King begins to taste like welfare food. They have the absolute best burgers I have had in quite some time. Currently only on the east coast (like most of the good stuff)... they definitely make my favorites list this year.
7. One of my favorite stores has finally made it to DC... Barney's Coop. Whenever I need a 'fit' for a function that is the place to go, without worrying about half the party having on the same shit.
8. Yellowman is definitely making some hot shirts that go perfect with jeans. They are called tattoo shirts because they basically look like very intricate tattoo designs.
9. Thanksgiving Day... by far my favorite holiday. Great food, family... and a day set aside to just to say thanks.
Random Thoughts about the BET Hip Hop Awards
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 4:48 PM Labels: atlanta, entertainment, random thoughts
So happy BET Hip Hop Awards weekend went off without one shooting, stabbing, or good ole fashioned pimp slapping. Atlanta Police spokesman James Polite said there have been no reports of crime or violence associated with the BET event.
I guess everyone gave their stylist the night off because almost everyone looked a hot mess. I mean what was Monica thinking… liker her album, she looked a hot shitty mess.
I have no clue to why Flava Flave and Deelishous (or however he ebonically spelt her name) are news and even better yet why people are so fascinated with that train wreck of a show.
Why are all the local radio shows reporting that there was hardly any applause during the entire show??? Was it that bad.
I wonder are people dreading that MARTA ever brought “that crowd” to the Buckhead area after it taking an hour to get to the too crowded Lenox Mall parking lot turned car show.
Why did this young fag (sorry but that is the only word that can accurately describe him) tell me he had ordered some new Gucci outfit and him and his friends were renting a Phantom… as he sleeps on his friends couch in a low budget apartment building and sits in the balcony at the awards.
Why did the news show the sole protestor of the award show holding a sign telling video vixens to put on some clothes… as she stood there in a midriff in the middle of a cold November evening.
Why must our community always have alcohol sponsors events. (i.e. Courvoisier Presents The Official 2006 BET Hip-Hop Awards After Party.)
FINAL WORD: I didn't invite the awards show here, but I should have," said Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin. "It just makes sense with our music industry that they be here, and I hope they return."
Courteous or Controlling??
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 9:45 AM Labels: personal, relationships
So this weekend started off pretty decent. Dinner date with Mr. SprintPCS (that makes 2)... and Saturday I spent the day with Mr. Iraq (more to come on him later). After a long day of rollercoasters and long lines at Six Flags we chilled at his house watching tv and just talking.
In the midst of our conversation, he mentioned that he was going to cook dinner on Sunday and invited me to come over to eat. Me not ever passing up a free meal, especially home cooked, agreed.
Fast forward to Sunday around 12noon I sent him a text confirming dinner and to see what time... no response.
At 3pm, while out with another friend, I still hadn't heard back from him, so I called and got no answer. So I played it no mind and just went on with my Sunday. So around 5pm he sends me a text asking me what am I up to?? So I tell him I am out with a friend and thanks for getting back to me 5 hours later. He then goes into this long tyrade about how he has "no obligation to when he has to contact me... and notices that I am controlling and that pushes people away." I respond to him saying I was just trying to be courteous since we allegedly had made plans. (a little background... he often responds to texts messages late or "didn't get them")
So am I being controlling or was I just being too courteous?
Oprah on HIV|AIDS in America
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 7:11 PM Labels: entertainment, hiv, OprahFinally Oprah does a show where the spread of HIV and AIDS is placed on unsafe sexual behavior. After talking with Magic and Cookie Johnson (yes he still has it, no they don't have any special drugs, and yes they are still having sex), she spoke with 6 women who contracted the disease through heterosexual sex. Most of her questions focused on their life with HIV and why they didn't use protection. There was only a brief clip of Peter Jennings interviewing 'DL' men but the definite message of the show was get tested, be safe, and you can live with this disease.
She is At it Again.... Damn I love her
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 7:07 PM Labels: entertainment
Naomi Campbell Arrested Again for AssualtSouthernVoice reports 2 Gay Bashings in Atlanta
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 10:47 AM Labels: atlanta, gay, social commentary, violenceTwo anti-gay hate crimes alleged in AtlantaWeekend of violence leaves three injured
By Ryan Lee
Taken from The Southern Voice
The Atlanta Police Department is investigating a pair of weekend incidents where individuals were allegedly attacked for being perceived as gay. Officer Darlene Harris, gay liaison for the Atlanta Police Department, said she is investigating two weekend incidents that were reported as anti-gay hate crimes.
Late Friday night, a white male was pulling into his apartment complex on Cheshire Bridge Road when he asked the drivers of two cars that were blocking his parking space to move, according to a police report filed with APD. After he parked, the man was confronted by one of the drivers, who allegedly yelled, “Faggot, you don’t tell me what to do,” according to the police report.
“He then pushed [the victim] to the pavement and said ‘Get up faggot,’” the police report states. The suspect then fled the scene, leaving the victim with scrapes on both of his hands.
Two African-American men suffered more severe injuries when they were allegedly attacked by six or seven men in Southwest Atlanta early Sunday morning. The two men were robbed, beaten and pistol-whipped, resulting in one of the men’s face being covered with bruises, according to a police report.
The men told WSB-TV that they were attacked because the group of men believed they were a gay couple. None of the victims could be reached immediately, but Southern Voice continues to follow the story and will have a complete report in Friday’s edition.
Even though I attempt to get to my desk by 9am... I usually don't begin work till around 1030am. The first hour and a half is usually spent reading emails, reading personal emails, reading the WashingtonPost.com, and various other websites for the entertainment news I have missed out on over the weekend... and when I tell you today my head is spinning.........
1. Jermaine Dupri quits because he is upset that Virgin didn't promote Janet's album the way the should have... umm doesn't that title he has over there give him any clout?? Why are you pissed after the fact.
2. Nicole Scherzinger is going solo... but wasn't she solo already? I mean I thought the other dolls were just there for show anyway.
3. So allegedly Isaiah Washington on my favorite show Grey's Anatomy is a homophobe?!?!?! Apparently in an argument with Dr. McDreamy on the set he was quoted as saying, " I’m not your little faggot like Knight,” referring to a fellow cast member T.R. Knight {George on the show} who recently came out of the closet to People magazine.... innocent till proven guilty even though it doesn't look so good.
4. So Madonna is allegedly going to be on Oprah talking about her recent adoption of the little African boy... I mean why she has to defend herself makes no sense to me but ok....
5. Did you catch the Times write up on my favorite male R&B singer, John Legend (and USA Today's and Rod's post on his November GQ spread)... whose album is in stores tomorrow....
To say that the past 6 months have been a true testament to my strength and faith would be a slight understatement. So while in DC this past weekend, I took a lot of time out of visiting friends and former coworkers to do a lot of self reflection and thinking with the help of my best friend. The end result was me deciding on concentrating on only 3 things… my health, getting my finances back in order, and making decisions about my career path. Everything else would take a back seat for awhile until I got myself back to my pre Atlanta days… including men and dating.
So believe that events of yesterday evening were quite a surprise. After work I raced to the Sprint store in Buckhead, because my trusty companion and lifeline, my Treo, is dying. It will not charge anymore and although I have backed up the phone on my computer I am afraid of what will happen when the battery finally dies out. As I was awaiting the technician to order me a new phone, this guy walks in with Treo issues of his own. He immediately caught my attention. From the odd smile he gave as he walked in to the way the jeans were fitting… but for some reason this Sprint store (which was about the size of my kitchen) had at least 10 employees buzzing about with only 3 customers in the store. I didn’t want everyone all up in my grill when I spoke so I nodded from a far and as he left I just chucked it up to a lost moment.
Only to my surprise that this wasn’t the first time I have spoken to him or even seen him before and it wouldn’t be the last time I would see him that day. Mr. Sprint store happens to be my neighbor. Long story short… we ended up talking in the parking lot for about half an hour as he walked his dog and made plans to go the movies the next day. Apparently he had noticed me a few months back when I left my lights on in my SUV and had to get a jump, but had only seen me a few times since then. So when he walked into the store he immediately recognized me. He is a full time student and works full time… which I find quite attractive. Seeing someone actively pursuing their goals is such a turn on for me. Anyway still being somewhat new to the area it is always good to meet new people and potential new friends… so we will see how it goes. Stay tuned…
ooooooh before I forget... so you know while you are waiting in a cell phone store for service you always want to peruse the new phones. Well I was checking out the new Treo 700 with windows and was checking out how better the access to the net is... well why when I look in the history of internet explorer the first website I see is adam4adam.com. Welcome to Atlanta!!
What was I thinking taking a 6:55 am flight back from DC this morning… and going directly to work?!?!
Why is there an Asian tour group of about 25 going through my office building… each taking a picture with the security guard by the antique mail box on the wall?
Why did they remove the McDonald’s out of the terminal at National Airport… when I had my heart set on a McGriddle this morning?
What time do you think I am going to bed tonight?
Why was the club last night in DC, the only time I did go out this entire weekend, lame?
Why do some lame movies come out on DVD in like 3 months after opening where as I am still waiting for The Devil Wears Prada hoping to cop the DVD before the end of this year?
Why is The Last King of Scotland only in one theater in Atlanta… several weeks after it was released? Oprah got me all hyped up like this was going to be in ever theater!!
What will VH1 and Flavor Flave do now that he has found the one… again?
What’s for dinner?
Ooooh yeah… why the hell is Solange Knowles dating Lil Wayne when she is married to Daniel Smith?????
· Talk show host Maher and John Legend surrounded by adoring women at Friday's post-taping party at DC restaurant, IndeBleu. The Post reports "the hunky singer dropped by an overhyped "Evening With John Legend" at Zanzibar but stayed only a short time, disappointing the crowd of fans expecting a concert."
· Karrine Steffans is still jonesing for her ex-boo Bill Maher. The New York Daily News reports she said "I will never be with another man." Karrine Steffans I guess is just entertaining herself with Whitney's former pot belly husband while she awaits reunification with the man she calls her "perfect match."
· I can't believe Wendy Williams, Queen of Talk and Gossip, allowed her husband Kevin to wear this getup at the Alize sponsored live airing of ‘The Wendy Williams Experience’ over at Gotham Hall this weekend.
· As if Tyra's show needed one more bootleg element... now we can expect to see Tina Knowles become a regular contributor to The Tyra Banks Show . Knowles will oversee a show feature called "Tina's Takeover Makeovers," where she'll perform head to toe drag queen makeovers on Banks' guests that would likely incorporate her own line, House of Dereon.
Love at First Sight….
When I love, I love hard… When I hurt, I hurt forever…
It was almost two months into the first semester of undergrad when I finally found two gay friends that I could explore and share this new found life. I would soon learn two valuable lessons about friendships in the gay community, but that is another post for another day. Mike and Adrian constantly talked about Mr. D… oh how tall… oh how sexy… he is such a dog… I just wanna go down on him one good time… I have gone down on him one good time….
For weeks this seemed to go on and on… one day driving through campus, Adrian recognized his car passing us on the opposite side of the street. This brief encounter led to at least 30 more minutes of the constant talk and for me that was enough. I was tired of hearing about this mystery man and fellow student. So I convinced Mike to invite him over for dinner. Not being easily impressed and especially by the 2 of them’s opinion on a man… I did nothing to prepare for this life changing dinner.
When Mr. D arrived, I was sitting on the floor of Mike’s bedroom checking my email and the now defunct site, WBS. Mike walked him back to the room where I was to introduce us. When I looked up at him, he smiled. That same smirky smile that would drive me insane for months and years to come. It seemed like minutes before I could speak a hello as he nodded and walked back to the living room. I quickly ran into the bathroom to give myself a look over and dash back out to the living room to be near this man. We did the getting to know you 20 questions over the stir fry Mike prepared and talked about me looking for a job on campus.
Dinner was over and Mike was getting ready to take me back to campus when Mr. D suggested that he could take me since he was on his way. Mike protested and said it was necessary he would take me but I interjected and agreed with Mr. D. On the ride home, Mike called my cell twice asking questions and being nosey and seeing if he had dropped me off yet. We arrived at my campus apartment where we sat at talked for a few minutes. He said that he would look in his department to see if there was a job available and would give Mike a call to let me know since he didn't have my number. Me in my blondness didn’t see the hint… but raddled off my number and told him he could just call me. Mr. D didn’t write the number down, so I just assumed he wasn’t serious... so I jumped out the car and continued to my room. As soon as I hit the door my phone was ringing… it was Mr. D. He inquired to what I was doing. A huge smile ran across my face as I told him looking for something to eat.
“Why didn’t you tell me you were hungry we could have stopped and got something… come outside.” As I walked out he was coming back around, I hopped in as my then roommate was driving up giving me an odd look. We knew all the same people, so for me to be jumping in some strangers car had to spark his curiosity. We got some fast food and ended back in his dorm room eating and playing video games… I awoke the next morning not knowing my life had been changed. And from that day we were together for the next 3 years. It was my first relationship and a life changing few years. Mr. D taught me so much about the life, about love, about dating, and most importantly about myself.
In the background: Blackstreet "Before I Let You Go"
Mood: Remincing
Random Thoughts this Friday morning...
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 9:09 AM Labels: random thoughts- Now that the CW Network sees the error of their ways by moving 'Black Night', you know Girlfriends, Everybody Loves Chris, and the rest of them shows, back to Monday... will Girlfriends still be the same without Jill Marie Jones?
- So doctors think marijuana may slow Alzheimer's disease... is this a step forward for the legalization of weed or at least medicinal mary-j??
- Why do people feel they can tell others how they should feel about something???
- I still do not understand how Noah's Arc can be Logo's 'breakout series' but yet only get 8 episodes. Trying to wrap up old story lines and create new ones... was just a bit too much for 8 episodes.
- And since I am on Noah's Arc... as much as I think this season was an improvement from last season... the acting in episode 207: Baby Can I Hold You was absolutely dreadful. The fake tears and emotion... I demand that episode be reshot before it makes it to DVD.
- Don't take this the wrong way because I love Michael Knight's vision and style... but was I the only one rejoicing while watching the reunion episode when he flashed that smile and showed.... braces!!!
- Why do people I never talked to, thought about, or even met while living in DC, think I want to "chill" with them just because I am coming back.... UMM NO!!
- Now that the Bushes and Bill Frist are rallying behind Hastert is his job safe again????
- Only 3 more weeks till Once Again, John Legend's sophomore disc...
- Don't you find the ball photos on Frank Leon Robert's site somewhat intriguing???
Yesterday I came home to find my apartment locked from the inside. The naivety in me assumed that somehow the deadbolt must have turned a lil bit. After calling for maintenance and waiting for 15 minutes... Glenn (the maintenance guy) told me that the door has been locked from inside. Hmmmm I am outside that is impossible. So we walk around the building and down a hill, through a field of ivy to get to my patio that I have cherished since moving in. Upon arriving and trying the sliding door off my bedroom I see the door is locked... try the other door off my sunroom and it slid right open. An eery feeling immediately came over me as I walked in and saw my 20" LCD monitor was missing... my CPU was pulled to the middle of the floor and wires and debris was everywhere. Slowly the realization has come over me that my private space... the space I go to relax and get away from it all... the space that I have worked for and bought everything in... the space I called home and been burglarized.
Two years ago during my first year in grad school, my Mazda 626 was broken into and the radio was stolen... but someone coming into your home is a totally different feeling.
My room was trashed... hair clippers, a couple fitteds, all my watches, all my rings and bracelets, all my earrings, all 10 bottles of my cologne, my iHome, and all the change I had been saving for 3 years in my water cooler bottle. And to make matters worse they took my 600tc pillow cases to carry away my valuables. Now one of my favorite sets of sheets have to be trashed.
A lot of other stuff was taken but the most important thing that I lost was the feeling of security in my own home. It just absolutely amazes me that some people think it is ok to come into someone else's home and take the things that they work for.
And people laugh when I say we should go back to the times of Hannibal... eye for an eye. Or at least incorporate the caneing of Singapore.
Growing up, I never quite understood why my mother’s baby sister, Sharon and her ex, Harold weren’t married anymore.
They seemed to be good friends and as long as I can remember I have never heard either say anything bad about the other or ever even argue. All I knew that Harold was still good friends with everyone in the family and always gave the best presents. Their son JeMel was always a top priority with him. He always lived in the upscale neighborhoods of Houston and they always looked like a magazine photo spread taken out of Architectural Digest. And I remember music… there was always music playing in his house. O and his roommates, over all the years he only had 2 that I can ever remember but they were always so stylish and fun. My father passed when I was still in elementary school, so I always spent time with my two uncles, Terry and Harold, while growing up in Houston. At least one weekend a month I was at his house with my cousin, JeMel.
I always wanted to grow up to be like my uncle Harold. A successful executive at one of the largest oil companies in Texas… always driving a nice ride… dressed in the best clothes… and so many friends.
I will never forget not long after me and my mother moved to Birmingham, JeMel and Harold had gotten into a fight and one went tumbling down the stairs in the house and the police were called. I had never seen my uncle upset but JeMel always had a problem with his temper. When I asked why… I was told he found out his father was gay. At that moment I had a stream of flashbacks to growing up and realizing damn yeah he was. Maybe 4 years after that incident on Thanksgiving day, my uncle passed away. I remember driving back to campus wishing that I could have reached out to my uncle and told him my secret, although I am sure he knew.
I always wondered what it would be like to have him in my life right now. Someone to talk to that understands. For those that have parents that are accepting and understanding you are truly lucky. No real point to this just thoughts on my mind...
I am tired of feeling sorry for bruising people's fragile egos... and swear some of your parent's did such a disservice to you as you were growing up. The world is not always nice... never will be. I never understood why everyone has this "fairy tell" perception of reality and think that everyone is supposed to be nice and sweet. Where was that ever written? Did I miss that class at birth, maybe I was too busy telling the doctor his breath was just a bit tart? But for me I would choose reality and truth over some sugarcoated bullshit any day!!
People are so used to having their egos stroked… and people walking on egg shells around them that when they finally hear someone be upfront and honest with them they can’t handle it.
Now with this being said, I rarely (note I did not say never, just rarely) attempt to be malicious to anyone. But sometimes you just really need to hear the truth as plain and simple as it can possibly be delivered. I am not a mean person... and probably one of the best friends you could possibly ever have... but I am me and I will always be me. And what you may see as a fault... I may see as rather positive character trait.
Random Thoughts this Monday morning...
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 10:30 AM Labels: Oprah, random thoughts1. Oprah is back!!! Am I the only one excited?
2. Just a few more days till the Janet media blitz begins... including appearances on Oprah and the Today show and at least 10 magazine covers... lets up this album does better than the last.
3. What the hell is with this Chicken Noodle Soup song? After many years of my mother, aunts, and uncles saying you don’t know what real music is… I finally agree. When some nonsense that should be banned only to be heard during a Campbell’s Soup commercial… was 1) ever recorded and 2) gets a video… there is something wrong with music today.
4. Why is it when people owe you something they come up with every excuse in the book (like your issues are my problem)... and then get quiet? Just be real and say fuck you, you ain't gonna get it!!
5. Whomever that is over at the Georgia Aquarium reading this blog... can a brother get 2 free tickets? (Don't worry about how I know you are reading just email me and let me know!!)
6. Will Michael Knight win Project Runway?
7. I'm definitely feeling that pale green color all over the Lacoste Spring 07 Fashion show.
8. I wonder if I start a fund to pay off my student loans how many people would contribute?
9. Why am I adding HBO back to my cable just because The Wire is back on.. and Def Comedy Jam.. and Bill Mahr.... and of course when their seasons end... BYE BYE HBO.
10. Why do people slow down to look at accidents or people getting tickets on the side of the highway? Like you have never seen this before??? Keep that shit moving I got places to go.
11. Why is it when people know they are in the wrong… they get quiet and scarce?
12. I am very proud of my undergraduate alma mater Auburn University for their brilliant start to the NCAA football season with a number 2 standing and a 3-0 record. WAR EAGLE!!
13. Why do I find myself watching Flavor of Love with my friend Damian every Sunday? The entire time criticizing anyone for degrading themselves in such a public way… but yet since I am watching hasn’t VH1 accomplished their goal??? Or maybe not since we actually TIVO it and fast forward through the commercials… we will call it a tie.
14. Why did I apply for a job in May… and they call me today asking if I am still interested????? I mean seriously. Shit how much you paying cause I am all about the dollar!!!
15. 4 more weeks to my return to DC for the Sexy Party… oooo yes!!!
Sometimes my coffee table reminds me of Miranda Priestley’s desk in the morning. A neatly placed stack of magazines for me to peruse, read, and dissect. Well as of late my stack is getting a bit unmanageable. Labor Day weekend snuck up on me so my usual Saturday morning or evenings before bed… were taken up with other activities. So finally last night... I took an hour and finally finished Men’s Vogue… featurning an interesting cover story on Barack Obama. Now that leaves me Vibe, Peach, Details, Men’s Health, Complex, Black Enterprise, Vibe Vixen (I gotta know why Jill Marie Jones really left Girlfriends), O at Home… and now two new magazines Bleu and Krave.
Now I had seen Bleu’s website and seen other bloggers mention it but I had never really got into what the magazine was until Mr. Derrick L. Briggs handed me a copy at the Lion’s Den Pool Party. Well the Bleu website describes itself better than any words I could come up with by stating it is, "A quarterly magazine focused on delivering to the world a new representation of urban-gay culture." A deeper look into the premier issue of the magazine shows an array of articles from diversity on soap operas to an interview with Kelis to something called Dear Faggy. I must say this magazine has definitely suprised me. I thought it would be mostly fluff and the latest designer fashions but Bleu delivers on content that challenges the mind as well... definitely a recommendation.
Now I came across Krave, two months ago when I 
With 57% of the votes and his nearest and only competitor, Linda Cropp, only getting 31% of the votes. DC has secured a win on many accounts... Fenty is definitely going to be the neighborhood mayor unlike his predescessor, Anthony Williams who was definitely a downtown mayor. By no means knocking Anthony Williams becuase he totally revitalized the city... but now that the city is on an upswing it is time for someone to finally listen and look out for the poorer residents of the city. He also received an 8.5 (on a 10pt scale) on the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance of Washington, DC questionnaire concerning many issues affecting gays in the District. The winners in the primary are virtually guaranteed to sweep the general election in the majority-Democrat city.
But enough of that... I just enjoy looking at him. Congrats to Adrian Fenty!!
Thanks for coming out... God Bless... Goodnight
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 10:00 PM Labels: atlanta, gayWell another Black Pride has come and gone... and the Labor Day weekend that just seemed that it wouldn't end finally did. I will say in the few activities I did take part in, I definitely had a good time. I won't get into the entire weekend but I will go through a few highlights....
- Hmmmm Derrick L. Briggs..... hmmmm... I gotta come back to that one
- Remeeting Maurice Jamal for the second time was definitely cool. His infectious personality is quite contagious. Unfortunately I was unable to attend the invitation only screening of Dirty Laundry because somehow more invitations were given then seats were available... However congrats definitely go out to Maurice who announced that Dirty Laundry was picked up by a studio and will be in theaters next March. (Maurice you owe me a trip to the premiere next year!!)
- Comedian Sommore... she rocked the Hot Body contest, quickly advising those that shouldn't be on stage to back out now before she had to "Not tell a lie."
- Toccara Jones of America's Next Top Model Season 3 was absolutely gorgeous in person. A slimmer version (but still nice and thick) opened the Lion's Den Fashion Show on Sunday night where Atlanta's own Monica performed as well.
- Now back to Mr. Briggs.... I had seen him out once before in NYC but never really paid much attention... but after meeting him and Prodigal Sun out on Thursday night, I definitely paid serious attention. I will just say he is as attractive as he is in pictures, even more personable than one may think... and the smile is a heart stopper (especially when you catch a glimpse of him sweating up the dance floor at Fever with another fellow blogger, who shall remain nameless, and he catches you peeking)
Now of course no big event would be complete without me making a couple criticisms... but the only one that is worth mentioning is the fact that club promoters see pride weekend as the weekend to gouge patrons for every last dollar. If it wasn't paying $20 for one club then offering an after party at another nearby club for $10 (no discount if you came to their first function); or charging people to pay for parking in the convention center parking lot which should have been free, especially seeing most people drove clear across town to attend the event. I am all for capitalism and making money but there has to be some form of humanity in business.... And then to top that at the Unity Picnic in Piedmont they ask people to pick up trash (mind you no one should be throwing trash on the ground that is just careless and stupid) but when you been gouging people all weekend.. you better take a lil of that cash and hire some cleaning people.
With that said the offical gay pride circuit and the summer is coming to and end... see you all next January when ATL kicks it off again with MLK Weekend.
On Saturday… as you are cruising Lenox Mall we ask that you purchase something besides a Chickfila sandwich from the food court. (please also leave the straight folks alone while at Lenox for some reason they seem to forget what weekend it is… and always walk around questioning why is this mall gayer than usual). On the serious tip while here make sure you check out the events hosted by In the Life Atlanta and the hottest parties of the weekend brought to you by the Lions Den.
But so suddenly, so bad
How could it be, not a straight memory worthy of
All that we had made
Now that you're gone, every day I go on
But life's just not the same
I'm so empty inside, and my tears I can't hide
But I'll try, I'll try to face the pain
Oh, there was so many things
That we could have shared, uh-huh
And time was on our side
Now that you're gone, I can still feel you near
So I'll smile, with every tear I cry
How sweet, were the losses to spare?
But I'll wait for the day
When I'll see you again, see you again, yeah
Nigel Alexander Baptiste-Williams
March 12, 1989 - August 30, 2005
So for the past two weeks, my friend (for the sake of this story we will call him Mike) that recently moved from Ohio to New York has been talking about this sex party he was invited to. I had never been to one so I told him I wanted full details when he got home that early Sunday morning… regardless of what time just call me.
Well two days later I finally get the call and Mike goes on to tell me about how it was nothing he ever could have imagined. Just walking into a room and people everywhere groaping, moaning, and freaking. He said he was in the very dark apartment all of an hour, until he ran into a friend (we will call him Tony) that he knew from back home. (Momma always said… be on your best behavior you never know where you will run into someone) But that isn’t the point of this story… maybe a hour later he sees his friend Tony getting banged out by two dudes while several others stood around watching…
Before I finish this story, let me just say that I do not judge anyone’s sexual activities as long as you are not physically or emotionally harming anyone, and will say I have been quite curious and always wanted to be a fly on the wall at one of these things… back to the story
So of course he stood around and watched as a guy next to him that was watching began to feel him up. After watching for a few minutes he saw the guy pull out of his friend and noticed for the first time that evening that the dude wasn’t wearing a condom. I immediately asked was anyone using them and where they even there and he said yes everyone he saw had been. But that isn’t the point of this story…
The guy Tony from Ohio is HIV positive. And as another guy went to take his turn this time with a condom, nothing from Tony but moans. So my first question was are you sure he is HIV positive, and Mike says yes they were once good friends back in Ohio and he has heard it from the guys mouth.
So my question is even if you are having safe sex… is it the person’s responsibility to tell their partner or partners that they are HIV positive, even if they do not ask??
Dirty Laundry and more come to Atlanta
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 10:06 AM Labels: atlanta, entertainment, gayWell thanks to a couple of readers I have found out that Dirty Laundry is indeed coming to Atlanta and a few other select cities...
In The Life ATL, the official host of Atlanta's Black Pride, whose website predicts will be 40,000 people strong this year, are hosting a film festival with Dirty Laundry being the opening night feature.
Dirty Laundry, directed by Maurice Jamal, is a dramedy that follows a traditional small-town southern family, dealing with the secrets that are uncovered when the long-lost son (Rockmond Dunbar) suddenly returns home from a seemingly perfect life in New York. In the center of the conflict is the mother (Loretta Devine), who's own story holds as much drama and secrecy as her son's.
Dirty Laundry will premier at 7:00pm at the Rich Theatre Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center visit the ITLA film festival website for more info.
And for those who have become intrigued by the Ball life courtesy of the Frank Roberts and Clay Cane's ball blog entries.... ITLA will be featuring How Do I Look by Wolfgang Busch. As a follow up to the 1990 Miramax documentary film Paris is Burning on New York transgender and gay Ball culture, How Do I Look continues where Paris is Burning left off. Since 1997, director Wolfgang Busch and company has been documenting the "Balls", where the "Old School" and the "New School Legends" are competing in a safe and artistic environment at locations such as Harlem, the Bronx, Manhattan and Brooklyn. The "children", members of the "Houses", compete for trophies and cash prizes, representing their "House" to become a "Legend" one day. "Old School" meets "New School", and surprise?they all can get along! How Do I Look is a New York organization that serves as an artistic community empowerment project sending strong HIV/AIDS awareness messages through screenings, lectures, politicians, AIDS & community based organizations and the media.
How Do I Look will begin at 4:30pm. Just another thing to do while in Atlanta besides cruise Lenox mall... party with the Lions Den fellas... and ummm do whatever you do at your respective hotels, motels, and places of stay!!
I must admit growing up I was never really into rap music... but there were a few groups that I had to cop every LP they put out... Salt-n-Peppa, Will Smith (shush), and ONYX. It wasn't until much later that I realized why ONYX stuck out so much for me . Frontman Kirk "Stickyfingaz" Jones just does it for me. The Brooklyn native began his career by performing with his cousin Fredro Starr. The pair were soon discovered by the late rap legend Jam Master Jay. They released a few albums and then he went solo and branched off into a film career.
The IMDb database lists over 40 acting credits to his name including 4 new films that are not out, of which he directed 2. We have seen him in very small roles on Moesha, Next Friday, and CSI Miami, but last night when reading up on some of the new fall shows I discovered that Sticky has a new leading role on SpikeTV's Blade: The Series. Now I have never seen any of Wesley Snipes version of Blade and know very little of what the show is about, but I will most definitely be checking out the new television series.
I also read somewhere that Onyx has a new CD coming out soon.
Maurice Jamal & Dirty Laundry featured on AOL Blackvoices
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 11:01 PM Labels: entertainment
I don't know about you but I am eagerly anticipating Maurice Jamal's Dirty Laundry. While I have yet to find a release date or at least a preview date for Atlanta... I did hear that it would be coming out this holiday season. I came across these two interviews on AOL Blackvoices:
Maurice Jamal
Loretta Devine
10 Random Thoughts on this Monday afternoon...
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 4:12 PM Labels: random thoughts1. Danity Kane? What the hell where the ladies of Making the Band 3 thinking with that name? Did the show just quickly come to an end because Diddy was bored? Now that the show is over will we hear from them again?
2. Why people always claim they want someone real but they are rarely real with themselves?
3. First Tiger Woods... now Barack Obama will grace the cover of the quarterly Men's Vogue.
4. First Barbara and the View now even Payless has dropped Star Jones... could it get any worse?
5. It may just be my aries but I hate passive men... and I think all of their mommas should be slapped.
6. Why is Tina Brown (the King of R&B's sister) claiming she sold her sister-in-law Whitney Houston out to the Enquirer for $200k... to encourage her sister to get clean? I know my girl Whitney may be a recovering crack head but I don't think she is that dumb.
7. Why does every lil gay boy think he is the next model just because he was in some church or local fashion show? I mean seriously they need some better aspirations.
8. Why do people hit you up and say I am visiting your city can you show me around? Can we stop bullshitting and just be real?
9. Why do I always want some Chickfila on Sundays?
10. Why am I so disappointed by Beyonce's second single off "B-Day" (and why was the DJ claiming he had an exclusive last night at the club... when they been playing it on the radio for a week.)???????
Well Noah and crew are back and a few of the questions that we were left with at the end of Season 1, which seems like an eternity ago, were finally answered. If you don't want to know what happened I advise you to stop reading now..... well Tray is back from Africa and now the allegedly str8 friend, Guy, is sleeping on their couch since his girlfriend broke up with him and kicked him out while he was away, and Tray is back sleeping in bed with Alex.... Chance and Eddie are living the married life... the beginning scene twist with Noah in bed with the sex party dude who he has been dating since season 1 ended was quite unexpected but yet refreshing (I personally hate happily ever after stories... save that shit for Snow White). And the oh so sexy Wade now has a new ubersexy boi, Dre.
Ricky was back to him old self... however there was no mention of Junito (even though he is listed on the casting list on the Logo page)
I think season 2 has definitely started off as a better overall show than the first season and the story line already has me hooked and ready for next week's episode. Did you catch it? What did you think?
check out Keith Boykin's interview with actor Jensen Atwood who plays Wade.
You have one week left to cast your nominations for the 2006 Black Weblog Awards.
http://hisstory1.blogspot.com
Best New Blog
Best Original Content
Best Personal Blog
Blog of the Year
Blog to Watch
from Top to Bottom... a book review
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 9:35 PM Labels: gay, publications, reviews
When a friend in DC told me Michael-Christopher had written a book... I immediately assumed it was another in his comic book series Living the Life... until he mentioned the title... from Top to Bottom. My initial response was "what the hell is that bout?"... his response was just support him and read it. Well I finally got the opportunity to read the book and umm... well it was... what it is.
The premise behind the book and I do mean the entire book is... Bottom boy Virgil is in a relationship with top Rodney... Virgil comes to Atlanta for a conference and some country South Carolina boy jumps on top of him and is like I want that dick... well nothing happens (yawn) and Virgil goes back to DC beating himself up over an affair that never actually happened in Atlanta and now wants his total top boyfriend to be versatile after 2 years of dating. Fifteen drawn out chapters later... he finally tells Rodney he wants to hit it... which sends Rodney into a manic craze... running from the apartment say hell no my booty is off limits... and the story ends.
After chapter 3, I called my friend and demanded him to promise me that the entire book would not be about this wimpy boy not being able to talk to the man he has been in a relationship with for 2 years. I felt the characters were very transparent... and the story line was somewhat unbelievable... or at least I would hope it was. I feel Michael-Christopher was too detailed in his description of DC, that an average reader not being from the city would never quite understand.
One good thing about this book is that it has the ability to start discussions that should be addressed in the black LGBT community. The first being the stereotypes that surround gender roles and sexual preference. Bloggers like Valentino have deciphered it and Derrick Briggs has teased us with the beginning of a story about it. (Derrick's book club featured Michael-Christopher and his book this past Saturday)
As always I encourage you to pick the book up yourself... support the author... and make your own judgment... these are just my thoughts....
Must I Date Your Friend too??
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 8:43 AM Labels: personal, relationshipsMoving to Atlanta and entering the dating scene again has been quite an experience. Some of those I have shared in this blog. But something happened this week and it just struck a nerve and has been on my mind all week.
So I was sitting around the house minding my own business, not bothering anyone when I get a call from a guy that I dated for a few weeks earlier this summer. He was a nice guy that I had actually been communicated with before moving to Atlanta in an attempt to establish new friendships. So what was to be just hanging out turned into us spending a lot of time together and going on a few dates over the course of three weeks. And then came the oh this is moving to fast I need space nonsense (also known as I ain’t ready to settle down just yet I gotta see what else is out there, mind you a serious relationship was never on my mind but it is whatever). But that is not the point of this blog entry… so he calls me out of the blue and in the midst of the conversation keeps bringing up the Sugar Water Festival this weekend starring Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Queen Latifah… anyway so he asks me if I was planning to go because he had no one to go with and after agreeing to go, I get hit with… Let me ask my boy before I buy tickets to see if he wants to go too.
Back in June, I had been casually dating this one guy for several weeks. We often had to cancel or readjust our plans because he said, “My roommate is feeling left out.” Mind you the roommate went to Morehouse, and with all the homos at that school I am sure he had some friends somewhere in this damn city. Feeling left out? Am I dating him too? The last straw for me came, right after my cabin trip where I had been gone for like 5 days to get back to the city, anxious to spend some time with him. So I invite him out to eat… and on his way to my house he asks would I mind if his roommate joined us for dinner. So me being me I said yes I would but if that is what you want its fine. Long story short… just me and Dominican go to dinner but on the way home to chill and watch a movie, he says he wants to stop by Atlantic Station (outdoor shopping complex for you non Atlanta folks)… where what his roommate is…. only to come to find out that via text message while we were at dinner he had made plans with to go see a movie. As soon as I found out I bounced… I hope he enjoyed that movie.
I never expect anyone to distance themselves from their friends just because they are dating. But there has to be some sort of separation. And what kind of pressed friend would always want to be the third wheel… I mean every now and then its whatever, lets all go hang out but damn!!
Layonce Knowles feat. Gay ZZZZ - Deja Vu
Absolutely Hilarious
When I was back in DC a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to go see my therapist to discuss some issues that had just began with a close friend. Near the end of our session she said something that has had me thinking since I returned, but it became very evident this weekend. A lot of times we fail to recognize chronic disorders in our own lives.
For several years now, me and a close friend have had a very cyclical friendship. One that was often more one sided than others, which is quite odd for two people that are supposed to be so close. The job I had that actually required me to relocate back to Atlanta and that whole catastrophe that came of it, sent me into a depression that I often hid from others… but when the new job came through, he was the second person I called (after my best friend Rey back in DC)… and I got “O great… busy at work will call you later to get details”. Hmmm ok… still haven’t gotten that call several weeks later.
Another call… “oh we are going out this Saturday to go welcome Damian to Atlanta and celebrate the new job.”… “Oh I can’t I have an out of town guest.” Ok like that bitch don’t have to eat too.
Anyway that list can go on but you get the point.
So in the session Dr. Taylor said to me if this person continuous to let you down… why do you continue to have expectations of them. (see number 4) She then said we often are the last to see the chronic disorders in our lives and always the last to make that change…
Anyway I say all this to say this weekend Kool and myself went to this house party (damn that boy’s house was hot) and my friend happened to be there with his crew, who had befriended me when I moved down. So as I spoke to everyone, less him but not in a really noticeable way (childish I know but I wasn’t thinking that at the time). Later his boyfriend comes up to me and ask me why am I being mean to my friends… my reply to him was… “the status of our friendship is his decision not mine.” Now I leave the party looking like the asshole. So in case he ever reads this… I apologize for my naivety.
I told him when I got back from DC, that I no longer had any expectations of him and that we were still cool. His reply to me was how can he fix this… I said that is up to you. And still no response… no action.
Weekend lesson: Recognize your chronic disorders… let it go… and always be the better person.
The new web site is almost complete. The content is currently going through some edits and I have some new pictures I want to add but I couldn't hold out on showing this off...
Much thanks to my good friend, web designer, and photographer Steven C. Evans for creating this web site and being able to work me. You can check his work out at http://www.stevencevans.com
I never really pay attention to the statistics of visitors to my page but this week I have found out that more people are visiting my page and reading my thoughts than I would have imagined. Earlier this week I got a Yahoo IM from a friend of a friend... who commented on a recent post I had made. This totally took me by shock, because I would have never assumed that he even knew I had a blog.
Then today my bestfriend back in DC calls me to inform me someone was asking about comments to my blog and also inquiring why there are no pictures of him from the White Attire Affair. This too took me by shock. I had told him awhile back that I blogged but I never knew he would read it or even the person that called him about it.
The first thing that came to mind was.... O shit what have I been blogging about. Well at first thought, I was at ease because I always change the names of most of the people I blog about to protect their privacy. Then I remembered the original reason of why I started this blog... as somewhat of an extension to my personal journals. Like the title of the blog says this is about my writings, my thoughts, my life... so now I must make a conscious effort not to censor my postings knowing that my readership extends far beyond what I originally imagined.
And to those I know if you ever read something that moves you in some way, there is always the comments section... but just remember my writings... my thoughts, my life... my HisStory
Random Thoughts this Friday morning...
Posted by C. Baptiste-Williams at 9:40 AM Labels: random thoughtsJust some random thoughts and lessons that were running across my mind as I drove in to work this morning:
- Why is Project Runway the best reality show on tv? Finally people with real talent.
- Everyone that says they are your friend is not your friend. Everyone that smiles in your face is not your friend. Cause people will hang out with you on Friday and be sleeping with your potential on Saturday... (and yes I am referring to you)
- Let your true friends know you appreciate them. The past 3 months have been quite difficult for many reasons and 3 of my friends that don't even live here in Atlanta have definitely come through for me and have been the best support system.
- With no expectations, you can't be let down. For years I have been wondering why someone who was a close friend would never follow through and would always let me down well I have released the expectations I had on our friendship and now I feel like things are a lot better.
- Why am I happy I get to look at the Ryan Rankin dance yet another week on So You Think You Can Dance... not normally my type but he has a sex appeal about him... maybe flexibility.
- If one more person says they are tired of the games to me I swear I will scream. If everyone is tired of them, why is everyone still playing them.
- Why do you get involved with other people but then claim you are not over your ex just as an excuse so you can continue to ho. Be real be honest. Please refer to the item above.
- Why is it so hard for people to put the toilet seat down and not piss all over the toilet when they are visiting, if it is that hard sit down and piss.
- Why did this idiot assume I was being bougie because I said I don't go to the southside of Atlanta. I dont know anyone over there, I don't work over there and gas costs too much for me to try and meet anyone over there.
- Why do I still fill the alcohol in my body from this past weekend... that alone is enough to make me want to give drinking up.
- Why do people hit you up ranting and raving about some issue assuming you want to hear about it. Unless it is positive keep that shit to yourself cause I don't want to hear it. I have enough negative shit to worry about on my own to be hearing about yours.
- For Atlanta to be so big and to have so many homosexuals why do I keep running into people who know my friends, in the biblical sense of "known". Or is it just that the blog world is so small.... hmmm
- Why do my friends want to talk to me about their dead-end... nonsense filled relationships and then when I say get out, they say I just don't understand. Yep I don't understand why you deal with shit when you don't have to. I rather be alone and at peace then with some fool and unhappy.
- So now that TD Jakes has convened a Georgia Dome fill of church folk for his huge MegaFest convention... will the punk clubs be filled too???
Well as you read in the posting below I was back in DC this past weekend for the White Attire Affair and to hang out with my old friends.
The weekend started early on Thursday, with a jazz reception at the FoodBar DC to promote the weekend's White Attire Affair. After a few drinks, a little food, and even more drinks I ended up at the Bachelor's Mill for yet a few more drinks. Friday was spent running around the city seeing friends... finding out one is 2 months pregnant was the biggest shocker. A couple house parties that night led us to the Edge... for my final spin on the dancefloor before it is bulldozed and a former memory much like Traxx. (And thank you to my dance party for the weekend... seeing you was definitely a highlight for the weekend and you still owe me lunch!!)
Saturday was spent in the bed recovering... and the evening was spent with the crew at the 8th Annual White Attire Affair. Now this was my first time ever going even though I lived in DC for 7 years. Now as an event manager by trade, I of course saw somethings that were awfully wrong... such as no set dance floor in the General Admission area, not enough bars, too much light, and the acoustics were horrible for Rachelle who seemed to be in her own world while performing. And why was there only house and old school music in the VIP area... so not cool.
Sunday began with brunch and cocktails and cocktails and more cocktails at the Manderin Oriental.. then a cookout by Howard.. and yet another club... needless to say on the plane ride home on Monday and work today, I was not a happy camper. But I loved being back in DC and can't wait to get back this October.
This Saturday will mark 3 months that I have been living back in Atlanta. But this Thursday, I will be heading back to DC for a weekend of partying and hanging out with my friends in the Nation's Capital. Shopping in Georgetown... Sunday Brunch... the Metro... accessibility of the Washington Post... djs that play a mix of hiphop, r&b, go go, and reggae music... crab cakes made of crab...
Of course I have already been in contact with my boys back in DC... getting the weekend lined up. So far there is a cocktail reception on Thursday... a house party and the Daryl Wilson's Bounce party at the Edge (especially since it will be closing soon) on Friday... the White Attire Affair on Saturday... and brunch and Daryl's Sexy Sunday party which has moved from Love to Mirrors rounding up the weekend. I am sure by the time I get on that flight heading home on Monday afternoon I will be good and wore out...
damn do u have any dark friends
--Posted by Anonymousto His Story 7/05/ 2006 10:07:26 AM
LOL Trent. Better claim your man. You know how some can be. Seems like you had a great time and I have to ditto anonymous' question, "damn do u have any dark friends" LOL. Anyway you make a cute group and glad you weren't lonely over the holiday.
--Posted by Ty to His Story at 7/10/2006 02:17:49 PM
What is with these crazy ass comments??? Why would one assume just because they see a picture that just happens to be filled with a group of people of lighter complexion that I wouldn't have any darker complexion friends??? Why would you even question that... unless you yourself have issues with skin complexion???
For the official record... I do have friends of darker complexion... I don't choose my friends based on their complexion but based on their personality, attractiveness, financial status, and other things that you can now dissect...
We as African Americans must get beyond skin complexion... we have so many other internal issues that complexion should be the last on the list. When someone of another race looks at me they see a black person first not a light skinned/high yellow/red bone or any other crazy ass description one comes up with to further divide us as a group.
I swear this seems to have been the longest weekend ever. Like the weekend that just kept going and going and going. But I will say I had a great time and spent way too much money.
The weekend began on Friday... me and Scorpio went to see The Devil Wears Prada. And let me say that movie is classically funny. I think that the writers made a really good adaptation of the book. A brief walk around Atlantic Station and a nice ride home pretty much ended the evening for me. While I was out on the movie date, my good good friend Damian finally arrived to Atlanta from DC with the help of our friend Tony. After a brief session of catching up.... they pumped it to the club and I pumped it to bed.
Most of Saturday was spent at a friend's family cookout. It often amazes me how relaxing it can be to be around family... especially when it isn't yours. Can you believe after eating and watching Madea Goes to Jail... we all went outside and played kickball. Now I haven't played kickball since I was in elementary school back in Texas... but to see a group of grown ass men and women getting really competitive in a game of kickball was quite funny. That evening the crew got together for drinks at my spot then we hit it to Atlanta Live. That had to be the third time I had been to that club since being in Atlanta and the first time I have actually enjoyed it. Was also good to see Emory... a new acquaintance of mine (more on that later).
Kool, B, Reddman
Sunday, the crew came over to play some spades, eat and drink before another night out... this time the Boom Boom Room. As you can see from the pictures it was one ole good time. That night I actually ran into a guy that I had met three years ago in Puerto Rico. We danced and danced... talked and talked... and made a lunch date for the next day.... ooooo the Artist takes my breath away sometimes.
Kool and my bestfriend
Kool aka weedy
My ATL crew
Well Monday... yeah the crew went out again. But this evening was quite eventful... at the first club, Fever, that we went to I finally got to see Serious and Flimsy, from Kool's blog as well as meeting the infamous Papi and Kool's ex. And all I can say from that is Papi is definitely his type... Flimsy is very flimsy... and well ummm thats all I will say on that.
Tuesday we made plans to meet up at Phipps Plaza mall to watch the fireworks... but the rain had other plans. No 4th of July fireworks for the city of Atlanta this year but the crew definitely made our own this weekend...
Kool has chosen this as the theme song for the weekend...
