Avoiding Office Dama

A workplace with no drama is often unheard of. Just about all workplaces have its share of scandals and misunderstandings. Regardless of how hard you try to avoid office politics, those pesky office gossipers may come your way.

Recently, one of my co-workers, lets just call her Kathy, casually gave her opinion about another’s co-worker’s, we’ll call her Tia, attire and her comments were taken out of content. Apparently, the conversation was overheard and Tia was informed misinformed about the comments. By the time “the news” made it back to Kathy, the truth had been stretched and Kathy had been labeled a gossiping trouble maker, who goes around talking about people. The situation escalated to the point where one of our administrators had to intervene and help settle the situation.

Staying clear of your co-workers personalities and the drama that they try to involve you in can be a bit challenging. The next time the office gossip or mess maker is up to their old tricks, give these tips a try and stay clear of the drama that they bring with them.

Remain Neutral Do not voice your opinion about any situations, no matter how much your human nature wants to.

Don’t Share Personal Information Keep details about your personal life private. Don’t talk about your cheating boyfriend or your problem with alcohol. If you do, you are setting yourself up for being gossiped about.

Stay Clear of Bad Influences Do not congregate or hang with known office mess makers. Although you may be a totally different person, you will be assumed to be the same by the company you keep.

Attend After Work Events With Caution When attending the company’s Christmas party or your co-worker’s birthday parties, be on your best behavior. Avoid the risk of being the topic of discussion the next day at work.

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Posted in: Careers,Lakeshia's Corner,Lifestyle

Chris Brown, Jennifer Hudson Tops Billboard's 200 Album Chart

Despite his recent violent outburst on Good Morning America, racy photos that hit the 'net and a publicist vacancy, Chris Brown has beat all of the odds. His newest album F.A.M.E. debuted in the top spot of the music charts last week with over 273,000 albums sold (nearly tripling the release of his last effort, Graffiti). F.A.M.E. is Breezy’s first No. 1 album on the Billboard Charts.

Jennifer Hudson's, I Remember Me which sold 165,000 copies, took the second spot. I Remember Me matches what she did with her 2008 self-titled debut, which also entered at #2, but had a larger first-week selling 217,000 copies.

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Posted in: Celebrity News,Chris Brown,Jennifer Hudson

Spring Break Activities On A Budget

When searching for enjoyable activities to do during your spring break, the possibilities might seem limited if you do not have the funds to travel out of town. Even if your family is not able to take a vacation this year, there are still some great activities you can do around your city or in the comfort of your home.

Sleepovers  Pajama parties are a big hit no matter among people of all ages.  Grab the popcorn and DVDs and get ready for all night gossiping and pillow fights.

Girls Day At The Mall  Have a girl’s day at the mall. Try on tons of clothes and check out all the latest beauty products – some places even give free make-overs. If you’re cash-strapped, head to your local thrift shop and amaze your friends with your cheap finds.

Catch A Flick Go and see one of the latest movies.  A lot of theaters offer daily discounts and mom's day out programs.

Arts and Crafts Pull out out the paint, glue and glitter and get as messy as you want. Make picture frames, jewelry or anything else your heart desires.

Explore Your City Visit your local museums, aquariuams, or parks. Take an opportunity to enjoy your children, while learning something new. A lot of places offer free admission and programs for children.  Don't forget to pack a luch and a blanket and allow the kiddos to run wild in one of your town's parks.

The possibilities are unlimited.  Tap into your creative side and make Spring Break 2011 a memorable one.

Photo:  MasterLife.com

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Posted in: Leisure,Lifestyle,Travel

Spring Is Here...Maxi Dress Time

Maxi dresses are long, cute, comfortable, and flow in the wing.  If you're like me, every year you await the change in the weather so you can bring out the ever so comfy maxi dress and the sandals to match. 

A lot of fashionable people have rules for when to wear a maxi dress but I what makes you feel the best and you should, too. When experiencing a wardrobe indecisiveness, a Maxi dress is my go to outfit.

Whether you’re on a budget or want to splurge, you are sure to find a maxi dress to add your warmer weather wardrobe.

The above dresses can be found at the following locations:

ArdenB.:  Pasley Print Maxi Dress - $55.20

BeBe: Crochet Back Maxi Dress - $34.95

New York & Company:  Halter Maxi Dress - $56.95

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Posted in: Beauty,Fashion

I Didn't Listen

Letting go of past hurts is one of my biggest problems. When I’ve been hurt by someone, I usually want justice, vengeance, or even validation of my feelings and pain.

For years, people have been telling me and probably you, too, to let it go and let God, but no one has ever given me a solution as to how…how do I really let it go and let God?
After years and years of holding on to past hurts, I have finally realized how to let go…forgiveness. In many places in the Bible, it tells us that we are to forgive, so that God can forgive us.

“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25

Many times, I have said that I had forgiven those that hurt me and even prayed about it, but deep down I hadn’t. Every chance I get, I would bring up the hurt or think about it heavily until it made me depressed or in rage. Recently while having my prayer time, God told me that I had to really let go of all of the dirt that was clogging up my heart, so that He could cleanse it. Stubborn as usual, I dismissed it and went along with my day-to-day activities. Several times during the week, God spoke the same thing, but I still ignored it. Finally, God put me to the test.

I’ve been married for five years and I have been in a relationship with my husband for ten years. I love him dearly, but we argue and disagree a lot and both have caused the other pain and suffering.

While driving home from visiting my mom, an old incident that I felt had not been resolved came to mind. Not prepared for the response, I question my husband about it. He told me what I needed to hear and I immediately became angry. Although the incident was almost 3 years ago, I was still livid! My husband couldn’t understand why I was angry because the incident was old and I was the one who couldn’t let it go. I sat in the car quietly the rest of the drive soaking in all of the information I had just received.

For the next few days, I was angry with my husband, because he told me what I wanted to know, instead of letting it go. Well, yesterday the Holy Spirit came to me during prayer and told me to let go of all of my hurt, pain, bitterness, anger or what have you. I was reminded that by refusing to really forgive, I was the one doing wrong.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ, God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:30-32

The lesson/test that God put me through was a hard and painful lesson, but I learned a valuable lesson. Let go and let God through forgiveness. Also, when God tells me something, I need to listen!

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Posted in: Inspiration,Lakeshia's Corner

Morning Motivation Coming Soon

On my quest to finding my niche in this blogging world, I have been inspired by my friend, Kristen at EmpowerMoments, to empower and encourage others. Therefore, I will begin posting daily Morning Motivations, where I will attempt to uplift spirits and promote positive thoughts through Bible verses, quotes, and personal experiences.

Having a great day can make you more productive and have you feeling good. This can have a positive impact on your family, relationships, work and even your health! What you put in your body whether through your mouth, ears or eyes can influential.

I encourage you to stop by to begin your day on a positive note!

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Posted in: Inspiration,Lakeshia's Corner,Morning Motivation

Where Have All Of My Friends Gone?

Before having children, I prided myself on being a great friend. Loyal, committed, thoughtful, supportive, dramatic (at times), and there for a laugh. I was also available for my friends when they needed me.

In my mind, I was all the things a great friend should be. I still believe I am all of these things. Apart from the available bit. In my former life, I returned phone calls the day I received the message. I replied to emails instantaneously, and was all over text messages like a teenage boy at a Playboy giveaway. I remembered everyone's birthday and sent cards, by snail mail, in time to arrive on the actual day.

Enter a child and witness the train wreck. I'm lucky to check my voicemail on the day the message was left. Returning the call happens eventually but often the friend will ring back first, just to ensure I didn't pass away without them knowing. Email through my Blackberry is my new best friend. I can reply instantly and if I'm interrupted by my child, I can return later to complete the task. Any friends that are not digitally enhanced, unfortunately fall a little by the wayside. It's not personal, it's logistical. Setting aside an evening for a good old gasbag just doesn't happen any more. Spare time is of the essence and although I love catching up with friends over the phone, I love my sleep equally (or shall I say in my current sleep deprived state - I love my sleep MORE!).

Friendships need time, effort and energy. Strong friendships survive on the bare minimum but these are often the ones that have a history. The friend you've had since elementary school, who knows you inside out, accepts your faults, looks beyond your irritating personality traits and loves you all the same. They don't mind if you go missing in action for three months and are often a little slack themselves at staying in touch. These friendships, I have learnt, are the gems. The stayers. The ones that last the distance and weather the tsunamis of life. These are the friendships that simply pick up where you left off; the ones to really nurture once you have children.

The friendships that endure the changes parenting brings seem to be the ones that can ride the waves. There is a certain sadness in friendships that fade to the background because new priorities take a front seat. This is not to say those friendships can't be reignited at a later date when life paths cross again or common ground is found. I assume as children get older and less dependent on us, we can commit more time to our friends and find that balance that we all need.

Friendships evolve and at times, disappear. Not every friendship has to be life-long and now I've recognized this, I can appreciate the people in my life, right now. Friends today who may simply be a fond memory tomorrow are still an important part of my life.

The ones who have hung around listening to my bad jokes and my complaints about how stressful my life is will be in my life forever. Bless their hearts.

How have your friendships changed since having children? What do you do to maintain your friendships?

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner,Parenting

From Law to Medicine: S. Epatha Merkerson Has A New Gig

After spending 17 years of playing Lt. Anita Van Buren on the missed series, "Law and Order," S. Epatha Merkerson will join the cast of an as yet untitled–supernatural, medical drama on CBS.

The award winning actress can also be seen on the big screen as one of the leads in the upcoming Tyler Perry film, "We the Peoples."

Read more about Merkerson's upcoming television roles over at  AOL Black Voices.

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Posted in: Celebrity News,Entertainment

Is it Time to Leave Your Job?

The alarm goes off and you drag yourself out of bed just in time to make it to work to join a group of people you would rather not be around. All along thinking, is this really what I want to be doing for the rest of my life?

Many people find themselves going to work day after day to an unfulfilling job, because they are afraid to step outside of their comfort zone. Even in today’s economy, remaining in a job you hate is not the answer. You many not notice it now, but overtime your quality of work and ethics will start to fail due to lack of passion.

Countless of people have said they knew it was time to leave their jobs when they were no longer challenged, didn’t see room for advancement, the company was in trouble, or they hated going to work. If you fall into one of the aforementioned categories, strategically get a plan in order before leaving your current job.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

From the Classroom to the Boardroom

The end of school for many college students is nearing and many of them will be entering the workforce for the first time in their lives.  These graduates will be faced with the challenge of entering a workforce that is attempting to recover from one of the worst economy our country has seen. 

Many of them must now face the harsh reality that being a college graduate is no longer enough and on its own cannot guarantee success in the business world.  Unfortunately, college did not prepare them for the real world of work, but I have come up with a list that may help them satisfactorily meet the needs of their future employer.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

News from Young Money: Nicki Minaj Talks Sharing the Spotlight + Lil Wayne's Legal Woes

Nicki Minaj is not your typical self-absorbed star that wants the spotlight to themselves.  Rather than flooding the airwaves with her new Rihanna duet "Fly," she’s decided to let Ri-Ri’s songs have the spotlight for awhile.

"I'm gonna hold off on the Rihanna video and the Rihanna single for a little bit longer.  We both kind of dropped at the same time. So she has a lot of [songs] in rotation and I want to let her stuff have a moment and do its thing, dominate radio. [Instead], I wanted to come out with something more fun.  Instead, she’s going to release “Super Bass.” "I'm taking it back to a few things that I've done, it's a lot more fun. It will be my most fun video and my most carefree video, lots of eye candy and lots of beefcakes."

More Young Money news below:
 

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Spring Clean Your Life

Its official spring has sprung and you know what that means…spring cleaning time! It’s time to rummage through the rooms, closets and garage to find items no longer needed and freshen up those still in use.

Our lives and minds are much like our homes, they need to be de-cluttered as well. Often times we have things in our minds that are just sitting there, taking up valuable space, or worse – bringing you down. That’s when you know it’s time to clean out the old and let in the new. Spring cleaning your life means getting rid of old issues and ideas that no longer work for you, updating how you approach each day, and freeing up space for things that make you truly happy.

Here are a few tips on de-cluttering your life:

Identify bad habits. Work on breaking yourself of doing things that cause pain and suffering to you and others, such as gossiping, unhealthy eating/drinking, over spending, etc. Change your attitude.

Stop Procrastinating. If there is an unfinished task lingering in your mind, complete it.

Eliminate anger and jealousy. Apologize to others for your wrong doings and if you’ve been wrong, forgive those and move on. You can’t expect to receive blessings from God, if you’re filled with anger.

Once you’ve thrown out the negativity in your life, focus more on positive opportunities and personal growth by getting organized:

Make a plan. Decide how you’re going to effectively use all that new free space in your life.

Prioritize. Make note of what’s important in your life like family, career, romance, and travel and list them in order of importance.

Rearrange your daily schedule. Determine if your schedule align with your list of priorities. If it doesn’t, change it.

Spring cleaning your life may seem like an impossible chore, but just by dusting off a few old behaviors and readjusting your attitude, you will be a happier person.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Chris Brown's Window-Breaking GMA Visit

Just when I thought Chris Brown had his shit together, he goes and proves otherwise.  According to online reports, Chris allowed his anger to get the best of him during an interview on "Good Morning America."

It all started when Robin Roberts brought up his past domestic violence case against ex-girlfriend, Rhianna.  Apparently, Chris didn't like her discrete interrogation and retaliated by screaming and throwing chairs.  One of the chairs broke one of ABC's window.

"I mean not really, it's not really a big deal, that situation, I think I'm past that in my life, and I think today's the album day so that's what I'm focused on, so everyone go and get that album.”

Later, a shirtless Chris was photographed on the streets of New York.  Chris quickly took to his Twitter page at an attempt to save face with his fans.

"I'm so over people bringing this past shit up!!! Yet we praise Charlie Sheen and other celebs for there bullshit! All my fans!!! This album is for you and only you!!! I'm so tired of everyone else!! Honestly!! I love team breezy!! Thank you to everyone who supports my music!!! Key Word ( music) !!! Love y'all."

Watch the video of the interview below:

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Unlock Your Dreams

Life is difficult at times and sometimes our hopes and dreams get put to the back burner because of those difficulties. Our dreams somehow get chained up in a place that we pretend we can't open. I've often heard that we pay a price for the choices we make...good or bad. What price are you paying or willing to pay for not pursuing your dreams?

I have come to understand that to put on hold that something in life you always wanted to do is like stopping and dying. Perhaps, that is what's happening to you when you think about your life and the choices you've made, you die a little and so does the ability to pursue your dreams.

I do not know about you but, I refuse to allow life's circumstances to cause my dreams to die or be locked up in a place that I'm afraid to open. That's why I started to blog again. I know that one of my life's dreams is to help and inspire others and I felt teaching just wasn't allowing me to reach who I needed.

I challenge you to find a way to unlock your dreams and pursue them. Life is going to bring you difficulties, but you do not have to let your dreams die because of them.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Stuck in a Rut? Mix Things Up!

Are you getting tired of the same old routine? Is your each day just like the one before? Do you feel like the walls are closing in?

A certain amount of routine can be comforting and good. But, if we stay in the familiar too long, we rust and stop growing. While our egos might love the idea of keeping everything the same, our soul long for us to grow. When you’re stuck in a rut, you might start to feel bored, lonely, sad, depressed, or hopeless—all signs that your strength of mind is calling to you to do something different.

One of the quickest ways to get out of a rut is to mix things up. Even if you feel that your entire life needs an overhaul, small steps really do turn into big ones. Just the other day, I was talking with one of my co-workers who were stuck in a rut a year ago. She didn’t like her job, wanted to move to a new city, and was tired of the same old routine. Just to spice things up, she said she started trying new things like going out to dinner on her own, taking tennis lessons, and getting a different haircut. The more she mixed things up, the more confident she was to make the big changes. Today she has that new job in a different city and continues to mix things up.

So, whether your job or relationship is no longer inspiring, you’re less than thrilled to get out of bed in the morning, or you just want to strengthen your confidence, focus on those things and mix things up.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Halle Berry Honored At Ali's Fight Night

Dressed in a delightful blue dress and her short and sassy haircut, Halle Berry takes to the stage for another accolade.  She was honored at Muhammad Ali's Celebrity Fight Night XVII in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday.

Held at JW Marriot Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, the Oscar winning actress gave the former boxing great a big kiss as she was presented with a trophy for her good deeds bestowed unto those in need.

As for the charitable celebration, Muhammad Ali's Celebrity Fight Night raises funds for the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix. More than $17 million has been donated since the Celebrity Fight Night first started 17 years ago.

More photos below:

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Kim Kardashian Dishes on Beauty Secrets, Plastic Surgery, & More

Kim Kardashian is SELF Magazine's April 2011 cover girl.  Opting for a more natural look on the cover, Kim discusses everything from everything from beauty secrets to plastic surgery during the cover story interview.

"My hair tricks are that I don't wash it every day, which helps it shine. I also switch up what shampoo I use all the time."

"I'm obsessed with my nails. I get them done once or twice a week because it makes me feel clean. My favorite color right now: OPI's Midnight in Moscow."

"Rumors don't bother me anymore. I've read that I've had my lips done. I've always had big lips. Look at my baby pictures. It's ridiculous. Or they'll show one picture of me today and one tomorrow, and say I've had my nose done in between. When? Didn't you just see me yesterday? And how many times have I 'had my butt done'? People's logic is so weird. I don't know why they bother! You can't worry about all the gossip."

More + behind the scenes video below:

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Posted in: Beauty,Fashion

Celebrity News: Sandra Bullock Donates $1 Million to Japan Relief

According to reports, one organization is thanking Sandra Bullock for donating $1 million in support of the Japan disaster relief, saying,"This contribution is vitally important as the Red Cross works to provide critical assistance and essential relief items in this time of urgent need for so many people in Japan."

This isn't the first time the Oscar winner has shown such generosity, as she also gave $1 million to Doctors Without Borders to aid in the Haiti relief effort after the devastating earthquake there in January of 2010.

Kudos to Sandra for thinking of others in their time of need.  Enjoy the photo of Sandra leaving her home in NYC yesterday.

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Celebrity News: L.A. Reid Leaving Def Jam; Will Judge The X-Factor

Billboard has a confirming source that says Antonio “L.A.” Reid will leave his position as chairman at Island Def Jam to judge Simon Cowell’s new show, The X-Factor.

Reid accepted Cowell’s offer this week to join the show, which airs in September. His contract at Def Jam was due to expire in December.

Questions concerning Reid’s future at Sony Music are still swirling. Reid’s former boss, Doug Morris, will become CEO of Sony Music in July. Sony Music has vested interest in The X-Factor. The winner will receive a $5 million contract. (Source)

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Stop Rushing Through Life...Take Time to Enjoy

Have you ever stopped long enough to take inventory of your time?  What do you spend most of your time doing? Is the majority of your time devoted to your family or job?

Yesterday, Kevin Bullard of Marriage Works! posted the following on Facebook:

"This is your life...right now.  Don't get so busy that you forget to slow down and enjoy it. #MW!

Let's face it...we are not getting any younger! Time is going by at such a rapid pace and if we don't slow down and learn to enjoy what's important in our lives, one day we will wake up and it will all be gone.

Each of us have things we enjoy, even if it's just having a few quiet hours at home by ourselves. Make sure to take time out for yourself so you will be able to handle the responsibilities that you have. If we will take care of ourselves, we will have the strength and the energy to take care of our families and to give them the quality time that they deserve.

Make a conscious effort to slow down and take time to enjoy what's important.  Tomorrow isn't promised!

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Posted in: Inspiration

An Open Letter To Evelyn Lozada

Written by Oretha Winston at Elev8

Over the years I have watched my share of reality television. I have even taken part in one. I was appalled by the actions and behavior of Evelyn Lozada on last night’s ‘Basketball Wives Reunion Show”. One of the reasons I chose to write for Elev8 was to uplift and inspire people. It was a way to encourage people to do better, because we can be better.

After watching the “Basketball Wives Reunion” Parts 1 and 2 and both seasons of the show and following the continuous online affairs of “lifestyles of the rich and infamous”, I have come to one conclusion. You are a bully, with a threshold of immaturity that borders on being a freshman in high school. The only difference is that you have acquired a business and a platform to show it off on. Why would a person who has that rarest of things, which is an opportunity to do great things squander it in front of camera? You could be a light to our young women to show them that being a single mom can work.

Instead you show them that sleeping around with married men, is “just one of those things that happens”. That sleeping with a man on the first date that at best, by your own admission, you had only talked to via twitter was “how you got your groove back.” Seriously? Are you kidding me? No manner of editing can excuse that? Please don’t blame that on the producers. I have done a reality show too Boo-Boo. They only edit what you give them.

Read more at Elev8

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Will You Stay if He Cheats?

Photo Source

Cheating is a topic that many people have strong opinions about. Some believe that cheating is the ultimate relationship breaker and others believe in second chances.

So many women/men remain in relationships where they have been cheated on for various reasons. Some remain for the children or finances and others remain because they fear they wouldn’t be able to find another mate…whatever the reason, they remain.

If you discovered that your spouse/significant other had cheated on you or were cheating, would you remain in the relationship? What would you do? If you’ve remained in a relationship after cheating, what were the results? Did the cheating end or did it continue? What are your thoughts?

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Posted in: Relationships

If You're Having a Pity Party, Don't Invite Me

Have you been invited to a pity party lately?  Do you know people (family, friends, coworkers, etc) who have pity parties on a regular basis?  The strange thing I've noticed is that even though nobody comes to these pity parties and they are miserable downers, people keep having them! Why would they inflict such misery on themselves?

For sometime now, a close family member calls me on an daily basis to throw a pity party.  No matter how many times I talk to them, they always have some problems, issue or negative thing to say.  After several failed attempts to give them some good advice to change their situation, I decided I didn't want to be apart of a daily pity party, so I installed a call blocked app on my phone. Sound weird, huh?  I just couldn't go on listening to the depressing stories anymore! 

The other day, I stumbled across a poem that suits this situation perfectly:

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

And the Winner of the Giveaway is...

Kristen

Congratulations!  I just sent you an email with details!

Thanks to those who entered and those who read the blog and decided against entering.  I really appreciate all of my daily committed readers!  Stay Tuned, I would like to do a fun Spring giveaway in April.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Celebrity News: Megan Good & Group Debut New Single

Megan Good is wearing a couple of hats as of lately.  I try my best to stay on top of my celebrity news, but I had no idea she was apart of a girl group, The H. E. L. L. O. Girls.  Anyway, they debuted their new single, On and On the other day via Twitter.

When I first saw the tweet, I didn't listen.  But since that time, I have given the single a listen and to my surprise I actually like the song.  It is catchy and it is more of pop music, but I like...listen for yourself.

What are thoughts on The H.E.L.L.O. Girls new single?  Do you like it or hate it?

Photo via Google Search

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Book Review & Giveaway: A Conversation with God for Women

About the book: A front row seat to a fascinating conversation with God, Jesus, and other biblical characters answering important questions women have regarding life and faith.

A Conversation with God for Women allows readers a one-on-one dialogue with God, Jesus, and other important biblical characters as they respond to questions and concerns relevant to the Christian faith. The often challenging questions address issues and tensions specifically felt by women. Each answer, designed for both believers and seekers, is based on Scripture and written with the warmth and intimacy of a Heavenly Father relating to His child.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

In the News: Teacher Take Leave When Her X-Rated Past Haunts Her

Students of North Parkway High school in suburban St. Louis will get an eye full if they Google one of their science teachers, Tera Dye. A slew of pornographic videos of Dye are online and available for anyone to watch.

According to CBS News in Hartland, Dye asked to be placed on administrative leave after one of her students asked her about her past life. Dye admitted to making pornographic movies in the mid-1990s when she lived in California.

The Parkway School District has agreed to accept Dye’s request for administrative leave.

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Posted in: News

I've Lost My Swag & Can't Seem To Find It

After years of being a fulltime wife, mother, teacher, and student, I’ve somehow lost my swag along the way. The diva I thought lived inside of me doesn’t anymore. *hangs head in shame*

Yes! I’m using the word “swag”…the word that many of you may think should be retired, but…

Swag is defined as “appearance, style, the way one present themselves…their overall confidence, style, and demeanor.”

I thought I had gained on the swag meter when I cut my hair a few months ago, but I need some extra swagger to go along with my new haircut.

I’m not a total drag…I did get a short, sassy haircut, right? But I feel my entire appearance and attitude needs an upgrade.

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Honor Code Suspension Is Lethal Blow To BYU’s Season

The Mountain West may have missed a chance to play in the BCS title game in college football, but at least in 2011 March Madness, their teams have a chance to play their way to the championship game. BYU is the best chance the Mountain West has to cut down the nets in Houston…or they were, until one of their best players was suspended for the season for violating the BYU Honor Code.

BYU’s Honor Code says you can’t do such things as drink tea or coffee, smoke or do drugs, and among other things, have premarital sex. Sophomore Brandon Davies was suspended for participating in the final vice in that list, and now the Cougars have ruined their best chance in their history to win the NCAA title. Davis was the team’s leading rebounder, and he was starting to improve in the post, which is a big thing for a team who plays so much on the perimeter, powered by leading Player of the Year candidate Jimmer Fredette.

Now, instead of a No.1 seed, the Cougars may be fighting for a third or fourth seed, and they didn’t do anything to prove they deserve more than that after a 82-64 rout at the hands of New Mexico at home in the first game after the suspension. The Lobos romped to a 36-25 edge on the boards, and the Cougars were never able to establish any momentum down low at either end of the court. This led Fredette to attempt 26 shots, making 10 en route to a 33-point night.

The worst part about this, when it comes to basketball, is that the Cougars don’t have that long to figure out a solution. If this had taken place earlier in the season, the Cougars would have been comfortable without Davies in the lineup, and other players would have been able to play more in order to get this time of year. Now, the Cougars wrap up their regular season with a home game against Wyoming on Saturday, they’re no longer the favorites to win the Mountain West tournament, and their NCAA Tournament hopes may be down the drain.

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Posted in: Sports

I Don't Feel Like Blogging

I’m not kidding…it is rainy and gloomy out and all I want to do is crawl back in bed and curl up with a good movie.

For the first time in a few weeks, I don’t feel like sharing with you guys. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the love and support I get here and all of the new visitors my blog receives on a daily basis, but I just don’t feel up to it, but I’m actually blogging, huh?

Thank you for your continued support of Kreative Talk, but I will rant to you about nothing tomorrow! Smooches!

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

A Good Cry

I am a huge cry baby…well not really, but I will cry at the drop of a dime…sad movie, whatever, but every once in a while I need to release of all of the emotions that has built up inside of me.

A good cry is good for peace of mind…you know one of those sobs, when you cry in the shower or while you are alone and no one else is there? Well, this morning, I had me a good cry. I cried for all my disappointments, frustrations and exhaustion. I cried because money is sometimes tight. I cried because I have to struggle every morning to get my daughter out of bed to get dressed. I cried because lately my husband and I have not agreed on a lot of things. I cried because my husband has not been as helpful around the house as I feel he should. I cried because I feel alone most of the time, overwhelmed, under-appreciated and just plain empty. I cried because I don’t think I am really fulfilling MY life’s purpose. I cried and cried and cried. When I reached the bottom of my tears, I felt 100% better. I prayed I went on with my day, because I am wife and mom and life must go on.

When was the last time you had or needed a good cry?

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Are Black Women Misrepresented on Reality Television

From Real Housewives of Atlanta to Basketball Wives to Love and Hip Hop, reality television has become the modern day soap operas. Reality television has become fixated on black women, but only when they are acting a fool. Popular television networks, such as Bravo, VH1, and BET has falsely represented the black woman that if you were ignorant of the African American culture, you would think that all, if not a huge majority of us really acted in this manner on a daily basis.

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Justin Bieber's Hair Raises $40K

Justin Bieber's recent haircut set off his fans and the gossip mill was abuzz.  His hair was sold on eBay earlier today for a hefty amount.

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Celebrity News: Serena Williams Hospitalized

Serena Williams has been hospitalized after suffering a blood clot in her lungs.  She was admitted to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Monday and is said to be receiving care for pulmonary embolism.

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Posted in: Celebrity News

Why?...on a Wednesday

It is that time of the week again...Why?...on a Wednesday!

Why this lady at work, who wears khakis and wallabee shoes everyday mad cause she didn’t know it was casual dress day…excuse me sweetie you dress down everyday.

Why I’ve been stressed for about two weeks now?

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner

Some of the Things That Makes Me Happy

I've often prayed for happiness and peace...wondered if it would ever happen.  As I fought my sleep in bed last night, I realized that all of things that makes me who I am makes me happy at some point.  So, I decided to stop dwelling on the negative and embrace the good and be thankful for some of the little things that bring me happiness...

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Posted in: Lakeshia's Corner