I realize I haven't been writing as much as I used to, without much cause. I've begun this massive project, just this week, of becoming a new homeowner. First time. It's consuming most of my time and thoughts, even here at work. I've been writing pretty thorough blogs over on Xanga about the process, and although I think it's lazy to copy/paste those blogs over here, I think that a chronicle of my ups/downs/in-betweens while buying a new home could be beneficial to anyone who plans to do the same. But, I dunno. Right now I have a headache, so I don't feel like writing much of anything. This is as much as I think I'll do today. lol. I also have CD reviews to write: I'm buying music faster than I can listen to it. What I can say though: Mary Mary's latest is FIRE. It's so far out of the "gospel" box that you'll look twice at your iPod once it plays - just making sure you are actually listening to the right CD!
Anyway, after work I'm being shown my first prospective homes. *fingers crossed*
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
The Curse....
Currently, the Tampa Bay Rays are in the World Series. They lost Game One last night to the Philadelphia Phillies, 3-2 and Game Two is tonight. (BTW: Philadelphia Phillies? Where is the creativity in naming these teams?) I didn't stay up to watch the game last night. I caught the first three innings, but I'm sorry, watching baseball is like watching paint dry. Give me the 8th and 9th inning, please. Anyway, I had a feeling the Rays weren't going to win anyway, so I went to bed. Sleep is my BFF.
In addition, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied with the Carolina Panthers atop the NFC South. The Super Bowl comes to Tampa Bay during the first weekend of February, and die hard Bucs fans expect to be the "Home Team" at the Super Bowl.
It's exciting. But I don't get excited.
Why?
I'm from Cleveland. The home of "almost, but not quite". It's a city full of teams that, as D.O. put it in his blog, are "scared of success".
Consider it. The Cleveland Cavaliers brought new life to the city when they acquired LeBron James. We made it to the NBA Finals for the first time EVER in 2007. And got swept by the San Antonio Spurs. Lost our 2008 playoff bid to the Celtics, who went on to win it all.
The Cleveland Indians. Remember "Major League"? That was the team until 1995, when the city was ignited by the Indians winning the ALCS and making their first trip to the World Series since 1954. Lost to the Braves in 6 games. 1997 saw another return to the World Series, only to lose to the Florida Marlins in 11 innings, after blowing a lead going into the 9th inning. We lost to fish.
The Cleveland Browns. OMG. The team that disappeared from Cleveland overnight. The team that was devestated by Elway and "The Drive" in the 1986 AFC Championship game. The team that is now regularly rattled with injuries. THOSE Cleveland Browns. I need not say more.
I'd be remiss not to mention the coming and going of other sports franchises such as the Cleveland Lumberjacks, the Cleveland Barons (both hockey), and Cleveland Force, the Cleveland Crunch (soccer) and the current present hockey team, the Lake Erie Monsters. (might I add, the final two teams have the worst names EVER.)
I say all this to say: right now, Tampa Bay is seeing success. Hopefully, things will work in favor of both the Rays and the Bucs and they will "seal the deal". I've never lived in a city with a championship-winning team, except when I lived in Ann Arbor and the Pistons won the NBA Championship. Should the Rays and/or Bucs "blow it", I'll be convinced that the Cleveland Curse has followed me from Ohio, instilling the fear of success into the local sports franchises.
In addition, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied with the Carolina Panthers atop the NFC South. The Super Bowl comes to Tampa Bay during the first weekend of February, and die hard Bucs fans expect to be the "Home Team" at the Super Bowl.
It's exciting. But I don't get excited.
Why?
I'm from Cleveland. The home of "almost, but not quite". It's a city full of teams that, as D.O. put it in his blog, are "scared of success".
Consider it. The Cleveland Cavaliers brought new life to the city when they acquired LeBron James. We made it to the NBA Finals for the first time EVER in 2007. And got swept by the San Antonio Spurs. Lost our 2008 playoff bid to the Celtics, who went on to win it all.
The Cleveland Indians. Remember "Major League"? That was the team until 1995, when the city was ignited by the Indians winning the ALCS and making their first trip to the World Series since 1954. Lost to the Braves in 6 games. 1997 saw another return to the World Series, only to lose to the Florida Marlins in 11 innings, after blowing a lead going into the 9th inning. We lost to fish.
The Cleveland Browns. OMG. The team that disappeared from Cleveland overnight. The team that was devestated by Elway and "The Drive" in the 1986 AFC Championship game. The team that is now regularly rattled with injuries. THOSE Cleveland Browns. I need not say more.
I'd be remiss not to mention the coming and going of other sports franchises such as the Cleveland Lumberjacks, the Cleveland Barons (both hockey), and Cleveland Force, the Cleveland Crunch (soccer) and the current present hockey team, the Lake Erie Monsters. (might I add, the final two teams have the worst names EVER.)
I say all this to say: right now, Tampa Bay is seeing success. Hopefully, things will work in favor of both the Rays and the Bucs and they will "seal the deal". I've never lived in a city with a championship-winning team, except when I lived in Ann Arbor and the Pistons won the NBA Championship. Should the Rays and/or Bucs "blow it", I'll be convinced that the Cleveland Curse has followed me from Ohio, instilling the fear of success into the local sports franchises.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Follow-Up
So, after being hot like fire on Saturday night, I eventually calmed down. I thank this blog and my girl Ashley on Yahoo IM for talking me out of fury. lol. I spoke with the offender this morning; she called to ask me a work question. She apologized for Saturday night, explaining that one of the "crew" "forced" her to go out and she didn't initiate it. I calmly explained how her actions - or, inaction - left several of us feeling angry and excluded (at least two of us, cuz the girl I went out with last night was also supposed to go). I had nothing else to say. She continued to explain, I didn't reply because I wasn't trying to cause an argument. She knows how I feel. Issue closed.
Last night I attended my first-ever NFL game. The Buccaneers played the Seahawks. We scored tickets from my co-worker, whose husband has season tix. One of the girls from work, a 40-something-recently-separated-about-to-get-divorced-new-Tampa-resident, had asked me last week if I was into football. She's looking for someone to attend games with, and I was down for the cause. So when the tickets became available, we were all over it. Even though the game was at 8:15pm. After putzing around Tampa all day with Cha Cha (and consuming some schlammin' jambalaya, courtesy of my auntie), I met Brenda at her house in South Tampa. Yo dude, that's where the well-off folks live. We rode over to her sister's house, literally down the street, as her husband was going to drop us off at the stadium and save us a parking charge (good lookin' out!). Their house was ridiculous. A Mediterranean style home with gigantic doors, and the inside had an open floor plan, with tiled floors and a huge kitchen with your standard stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. I was blown away.
Anyway, we went to the game and had fun. I wish I had an exciting story to go with this (lol). The seats were in section 300, row B, right on the 50 yard line. We were in the sky, but had a great view. It's funny sitting with season ticket holders; they all know each other and are sooooooooooo serious about everything. But, they were cool. Somehow we got seated right behind two Seahawks fans, and although they didn't have much to cheer about, when they did, the chick would get up and start screaming and get glared at by everyone else in our section. However, they spent most of their time shaking their heads. There was a scary moment in the second quarter, when receiver Ike Hilliard was railed by two Seahawks defenders and was out cold for about 2 minutes. I almost started crying when he got up and walked himself to the cart, considering EMS and the backboard were already out on the field. What a relief, I hate to see that stuff. Then, those Seattle jerks challenged the call and Hilliard was charged with a fumble.
There was some random older lady in our section talking to all of the security guards and cameramen. A definite Botox and collagen consumer, this lady was bleach blonde, had huge boobs and was wearing stilettos. At a football game. Brenda and I were trying to figure her out. I don't know why she was trying to schmooze the guards...perhaps to meet a player? But, why in section 300? She was ridiculous.
This was my first time hanging out with Brenda -- she's definitely cool and we had some laughs. I don't know that she'll be a BFF type, but she's cool. I got real sleepy around the third quarter, (dude, it was like 10pm), so I got quiet. She is all about trying to kick it, already asking me what I'm doing this upcoming weekend. I have plans on Saturday...more co-worker stuff, hopefully this one won't cancel on me like the last...but I'm sure I'll hang with her more in the future.
Back to work I go.
Last night I attended my first-ever NFL game. The Buccaneers played the Seahawks. We scored tickets from my co-worker, whose husband has season tix. One of the girls from work, a 40-something-recently-separated-about-to-get-divorced-new-Tampa-resident, had asked me last week if I was into football. She's looking for someone to attend games with, and I was down for the cause. So when the tickets became available, we were all over it. Even though the game was at 8:15pm. After putzing around Tampa all day with Cha Cha (and consuming some schlammin' jambalaya, courtesy of my auntie), I met Brenda at her house in South Tampa. Yo dude, that's where the well-off folks live. We rode over to her sister's house, literally down the street, as her husband was going to drop us off at the stadium and save us a parking charge (good lookin' out!). Their house was ridiculous. A Mediterranean style home with gigantic doors, and the inside had an open floor plan, with tiled floors and a huge kitchen with your standard stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. I was blown away.
Anyway, we went to the game and had fun. I wish I had an exciting story to go with this (lol). The seats were in section 300, row B, right on the 50 yard line. We were in the sky, but had a great view. It's funny sitting with season ticket holders; they all know each other and are sooooooooooo serious about everything. But, they were cool. Somehow we got seated right behind two Seahawks fans, and although they didn't have much to cheer about, when they did, the chick would get up and start screaming and get glared at by everyone else in our section. However, they spent most of their time shaking their heads. There was a scary moment in the second quarter, when receiver Ike Hilliard was railed by two Seahawks defenders and was out cold for about 2 minutes. I almost started crying when he got up and walked himself to the cart, considering EMS and the backboard were already out on the field. What a relief, I hate to see that stuff. Then, those Seattle jerks challenged the call and Hilliard was charged with a fumble.
There was some random older lady in our section talking to all of the security guards and cameramen. A definite Botox and collagen consumer, this lady was bleach blonde, had huge boobs and was wearing stilettos. At a football game. Brenda and I were trying to figure her out. I don't know why she was trying to schmooze the guards...perhaps to meet a player? But, why in section 300? She was ridiculous.
This was my first time hanging out with Brenda -- she's definitely cool and we had some laughs. I don't know that she'll be a BFF type, but she's cool. I got real sleepy around the third quarter, (dude, it was like 10pm), so I got quiet. She is all about trying to kick it, already asking me what I'm doing this upcoming weekend. I have plans on Saturday...more co-worker stuff, hopefully this one won't cancel on me like the last...but I'm sure I'll hang with her more in the future.
Back to work I go.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
A Matter of Principle
I'm home on Saturday night. But not by my doing. And I'm pissed about it, so I'm here to vent.
Back in July, I made a conscious decision to give the Tampa nightlife a rest for a minute. I told my friends - coworkers/party animals - that I've never been one to go out EVERY weekend and I needed to slow down. I haven't gone clubbing or bar-hopping with them since. In the meantime, they've all grown extremely closer and have formed this "Charlie and the Angels" clique. I mean, it's fine that I'm not an "angel". I'd probably be known as "Conservative Angel" anyway.
But I digress. The "gangleader" of sorts/aka Event Planner recently had a birthday. She went out of town for her actual birthday, so told me several weeks ago that tonight we'd be going out to celebrate. She said that she is finally growing tired of clubbing, and wanted to initially go to the Clearwater Jazz Festival. I was like "chia, that's more like it!". That changed to a jazz lounge shortly thereafter, which was cool too. Then, earlier this week, it changed yet again to dinner in Ybor City and plans to-be-determined. (The Rays game is tonight, so they wanted to go somewhere to watch it). I pouted a little, but I said I'd be willing to hang no matter what. My weekend was nicely planned.
So, earlier today I got a text from "Gangleader" stating that she hadn't heard from her current love interest, was in a funk, and was therefore cancelling dinner. Cancelling a bday celebration over a ni99a? Really? Okay. I replied and told her that I hoped she felt better soon. And I decided to make it a Blockbuster night instead of finding an alternate plan. The first meeting of my new book club was at 7pm, but since I hadn't even PURCHASED the book, I held to my previous RSVP of "no, sorry I can't make it, prior commitment". So I've been home watching a million movies and going heads up with this puppy -- who is pooping out her food every hour, on the hour. I was so frustrated that I brought out my glass and this berry mojito mix I had in the fridge. Yes, my dog drove me to alcohol. So, I was gulping that and starting to feel good, when by happenstance I checked MySpace. And, Gangleader's MySpace status had been changed to:
"I am going to Ybor tonight to hang out with the fam for my birthday!"
I immediately texted this broad and said "saw your myspace status. I thought everything was cancelled. Y'all went out anyway"?
Her: "Ya we at karaoke I needed to be out"
Me: "U must've forgot to tell me. I was planning to kick it with yall tonight"
Her: "Come through it was a last min thing my bad I was in a funk"
(at this point I'm fuming, because clearly her funk didn't prevent her from calling/texting the remainder of the "crew" to tell them PARTY ON!)
Me: "I'm good. It's too late, I'm settled. Have fun" (that's so my personality -- passive-aggressive like a mug)
Her: "my bad we'll do it again soon"
(mind you she said that last time they went to karaoke and they didn't call me)
I'm so done. Although I'm bored stiff and NEEDED a few hours away from this puppy, I'll be dammmmmmed if I get up, shower and dress at 11pm because I was a friggin' AFTERTHOUGHT. Nigga please! If you WANTED me there, you would've included me in the text flurry you initiated once you decided to go out. Don't invite me out once I call you on your glaring omission. And don't think for a minute that I'm going to drop everything and come out the next time you are gracious enough to extend me an invitation. WTFever dude.
Whooosahhhhh.
Time for another glass of the berry yumminess.
Back in July, I made a conscious decision to give the Tampa nightlife a rest for a minute. I told my friends - coworkers/party animals - that I've never been one to go out EVERY weekend and I needed to slow down. I haven't gone clubbing or bar-hopping with them since. In the meantime, they've all grown extremely closer and have formed this "Charlie and the Angels" clique. I mean, it's fine that I'm not an "angel". I'd probably be known as "Conservative Angel" anyway.
But I digress. The "gangleader" of sorts/aka Event Planner recently had a birthday. She went out of town for her actual birthday, so told me several weeks ago that tonight we'd be going out to celebrate. She said that she is finally growing tired of clubbing, and wanted to initially go to the Clearwater Jazz Festival. I was like "chia, that's more like it!". That changed to a jazz lounge shortly thereafter, which was cool too. Then, earlier this week, it changed yet again to dinner in Ybor City and plans to-be-determined. (The Rays game is tonight, so they wanted to go somewhere to watch it). I pouted a little, but I said I'd be willing to hang no matter what. My weekend was nicely planned.
So, earlier today I got a text from "Gangleader" stating that she hadn't heard from her current love interest, was in a funk, and was therefore cancelling dinner. Cancelling a bday celebration over a ni99a? Really? Okay. I replied and told her that I hoped she felt better soon. And I decided to make it a Blockbuster night instead of finding an alternate plan. The first meeting of my new book club was at 7pm, but since I hadn't even PURCHASED the book, I held to my previous RSVP of "no, sorry I can't make it, prior commitment". So I've been home watching a million movies and going heads up with this puppy -- who is pooping out her food every hour, on the hour. I was so frustrated that I brought out my glass and this berry mojito mix I had in the fridge. Yes, my dog drove me to alcohol. So, I was gulping that and starting to feel good, when by happenstance I checked MySpace. And, Gangleader's MySpace status had been changed to:
"I am going to Ybor tonight to hang out with the fam for my birthday!"
I immediately texted this broad and said "saw your myspace status. I thought everything was cancelled. Y'all went out anyway"?
Her: "Ya we at karaoke I needed to be out"
Me: "U must've forgot to tell me. I was planning to kick it with yall tonight"
Her: "Come through it was a last min thing my bad I was in a funk"
(at this point I'm fuming, because clearly her funk didn't prevent her from calling/texting the remainder of the "crew" to tell them PARTY ON!)
Me: "I'm good. It's too late, I'm settled. Have fun" (that's so my personality -- passive-aggressive like a mug)
Her: "my bad we'll do it again soon"
(mind you she said that last time they went to karaoke and they didn't call me)
I'm so done. Although I'm bored stiff and NEEDED a few hours away from this puppy, I'll be dammmmmmed if I get up, shower and dress at 11pm because I was a friggin' AFTERTHOUGHT. Nigga please! If you WANTED me there, you would've included me in the text flurry you initiated once you decided to go out. Don't invite me out once I call you on your glaring omission. And don't think for a minute that I'm going to drop everything and come out the next time you are gracious enough to extend me an invitation. WTFever dude.
Whooosahhhhh.
Time for another glass of the berry yumminess.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
New Music: Marvin Winans Jr, "Image of a Man"
Over the past several weeks I have purchased and downloaded a crapload of music. Tosha has a nice feature on her blog where she reviews some of her recent purchases. Sorry for being a "biter", but I think I'll do the same! I have bought the latest CDs by Ne-Yo (which Tosha reviewed nicely), Robin Thicke, and Deitrick Haddon and copped the debut CDs by Jennifer Hudson and Jazmine Sullivan. However, I haven't listened to nan one of them (except Ne-Yo), because I've had Marvin Winan Jr's debut CD, "Image of a Man", permanently stuck in my CD player. I was looking online for a review of the album, to see if other folks are as stuck on it as I am, and was shocked to find nothing -- although it premiered #10 on the Billboard Gospel Charts (not so bad for the first CD released on a new independent label!) So, I felt the need to review this one first...eventually I'll listen to the others and do the same. (lol)
Marvin Winans Jr, "Image of a Man"
Released Sept. 30, 2008 on M2 Entertainment
Anxiously anticipated for several years now by many fans, "Image of a Man" does not disappoint. An inspirational CD with strong crossover potential, Winans aims to reach not only the gospel audience, but attract those who may not necessarily be into traditional "gospel" music. A variety of innovative sounds, thanks to the contributions of powerhouse producers such as Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins and Warryn Campbell in addition to newcomers David Garcia, Josiah Bell and Josiah Winans, places this CD faaaar outside of the "gospel music" box. Expect major crossover success once the music reaches the ears of the masses.
Track-by-Track Recap (linked to sample tracks)
1) "Image of a Man" (1 on iTunes, #14 on store-bought CD)
Written by Marvin Winans Jr (MWj) and Joe "Flip" Wilson
Produced by Joe "Flip" Wilson
What first grabbed me about this song is the handclaps. Odd, right? I was jammin'. (lol) Winans' voiceover over the progressive addition of musical elements ("This is who I am") leads to the opening of the song, in which he proclaims that who he is really HAS no explanation. Our existence is part of a greater plan and hopefully, folks will get with the program.
This is the Image of a Man/ I hope you understand/This is not my plan/I'm just the image of a man
2) "You Never Let Me Down"
Written by Rodney Jerkins and MWj
Produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins
This is the lead single from the CD, with a highly anticipated accompanying video soon to be released. Caribbean-influenced beats make this a song you can ride to! The song could have many meanings, as it's a declaration of gratitude. Who has never let you down? God? Your spouse? Your best friend?
When I'm lost and there's no other way/I know you'll be there just to light up the day/You Never Let Me Down
3) "It's Been So Long"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj
You know what got me first with this song? Its groove!! This is not mom & pop's music y'all -- it's the reason why the album is so difficult to classify as "gospel". But the message stands strong; it's plea to God for reacceptance after straying away and realizing that life is nothing without God. Oh, and it's my jam. (lol)
Now how can I live without 'cha?/Cuz I'm only alive when I'm with ya/It's cold out here on my own/Without of the warmth of your love inside
4) "Feel It All"
Written by MWj
Produced by MWj and Josiah Bell
Have you ever gone through something and looked for those closest to you, only to find that they're not there? That's what this song is about; encouraging those closest to you. You never know what someone might be going through. Sometimes you have to reach out and let your people know that you're feeling their pain. Winans and Bell combine to create a nice mid-tempo R&B groove.
How can you expect anyone for anyone to care/For your situations when you don't care for theirs?/You might run into a problem where you need a friend/Reach back and the hand you need isn't there
5) "Put Your Love on Me"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj.
As I understand it, this was to be the original lead single for the CD. I've seen some feedback on Marvin's MySpace page by some fans who state that it should've been. Either way, this might be the next one. It's a track that bumps. Winans talks about the disappointments that often come at the hands of others, and pleads for God to touch him in his time of hurt.
Where would I be if I didn't know you loved me?/Put Your Love on Me/Put Your Love on Me/How could I live without your love around me?
6) "Steps to a Man"
Written and Produced by MWj
I'm beginning to think that this is my favorite song on the CD. Never did I expect to hear a rock ballad on this joint. (lol) When I first heard it, I was like 'man that's a nice song'. But when I actually listened to it, the lyrics grabbed me. It's deeply personal, and although I am a woman and know nothing about being a man, the second verse was pretty much a page out of my life. And dude, I had no idea that Marvin had that crazy range. Dude.
How could the lights begin to fade on a love that was so true?/Or maybe untrue?/I can't fathom how it all began and ended as fast/Why couldn't it last?
7) "Come 2 Me"
Written by MWj and Warryn Campbell
Produced by Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell
One of the early "releases" from this CD, "Come 2 Me" is a plea from God for all of us to turn to Him during our time of pain. It has a smooth R&B sound that is guaranteed to have to bobbing your head.
Life may pull you low/But I'm on high/You can do so much better now/Heaven is my home/But I should live inside your heart
8) "U Know Love"
Written by Noel Fisher and MWj
Produced by Noel "Detail" Fisher
This song's bassline is crazy. That's the first thing you'll notice: your rearview mirror rattling. (lol) Winans speaks to the ladies here; those who rely on material things and attention from men to find fulfillment. He states that love is more than this; love is more than a temporary feeling, and admonishes ladies in this situation to hold out for the real thing!
She's gotta have Dolce & Gabbana/Louis, Gucci and Prada/Spending all that she got/So the fellas can say that like everything they see/Cuz everybody likes fantasies/They wanna dream a little dream/But it's never what it seems
9) "Believe"
Written by Fred Jerkins, Lashawn Daniels and MWj
Produced by Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins
The title speaks for itself! lol. Simply put, believe that God will do what you ask Him to! Just believe! Another uptempo jam from Fred Jerkins! (I bet you find yourself "car dancing" at the break...lol)
Belieeeeeeeeve/I'll do it!
10) "Mistakes"
Written and Produced by MWj
Beautifully simple, with Winans singing at the piano, this song is an apology for shortcomings. Hello, we've all jacked up one way or another, so we can all relate! It's a plea for God to come in a clean up yet another mess. Absolutely gorgeous song.
Who can shield me from dismay if you don't?/Who can kiss the pain away if you won't?/I need love/I need love in the hardest way/Like the Romans say/My mistakes weren't build in a day
11) "Push Pull (It's Alright)"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj
Now, we've all been there. Someone has pushed you to the point of nuttin' up. In this mid-tempo song, Winans encourages us out here to take a minute and walk away before you say something crazy. Folk will push you to that point -- grab the door and push/pull your way outta there! :-P
Push Pull/I know what you're going through/If they don't get you that's okay/I know you feel they gotta pay/Go and walk out that door/You wanna just let it show/If you can't find the words to say/Then let it go and know it's alright
12) "A Single Rose"
Written and Produced by MWj
This is a beautiful love song to Jesus, a song of gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice. Winans is joined by David May on acoustic guitar.
And I care about the time you spent on the cross/Looking down on a world that was so lost/Trying to decide if it was worth the pain/Just to let every man and woman live again
13) "Let It Out"
Written and Produced my MWj
Relationships. They come and go; question is, how do you cope when they end? In some cases, people have difficulty moving on. In this song, Winans encourages us to release that pain, not to let it eat away at you. He cites people who have killed/commited suicide to escape the pain. There's a better solution!!
Let It Out/Yes You Can//You'll Start Anew, just/Let it out/As you cry/You can try to/Go ahead and pray/If you never have you can start today/Yes I know things might be hard for you/But please don't hold it, control it, you know you should let it out
14) "Believe ('Baby Brotha' Remix)"
Remix by Josiah "Baby Brotha" Winans
MWj lets his younger brother take the reins on this remix to "Believe", and the younger bro handles himself nicely! If this were back in the day, I'd probably call this a "skate mix"! Baby Brotha brings in the synthesizers and ramps the song up a notch, guaranteed to make you dance!! :)
Next up: whatever I eventually listen to next. I've got a long list of music...probably no more track-by-track reviews tho. That took forEVER.
Marvin Winans Jr, "Image of a Man"
Released Sept. 30, 2008 on M2 Entertainment
Anxiously anticipated for several years now by many fans, "Image of a Man" does not disappoint. An inspirational CD with strong crossover potential, Winans aims to reach not only the gospel audience, but attract those who may not necessarily be into traditional "gospel" music. A variety of innovative sounds, thanks to the contributions of powerhouse producers such as Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins and Warryn Campbell in addition to newcomers David Garcia, Josiah Bell and Josiah Winans, places this CD faaaar outside of the "gospel music" box. Expect major crossover success once the music reaches the ears of the masses.
Track-by-Track Recap (linked to sample tracks)
1) "Image of a Man" (1 on iTunes, #14 on store-bought CD)
Written by Marvin Winans Jr (MWj) and Joe "Flip" Wilson
Produced by Joe "Flip" Wilson
What first grabbed me about this song is the handclaps. Odd, right? I was jammin'. (lol) Winans' voiceover over the progressive addition of musical elements ("This is who I am") leads to the opening of the song, in which he proclaims that who he is really HAS no explanation. Our existence is part of a greater plan and hopefully, folks will get with the program.
This is the Image of a Man/ I hope you understand/This is not my plan/I'm just the image of a man
2) "You Never Let Me Down"
Written by Rodney Jerkins and MWj
Produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins
This is the lead single from the CD, with a highly anticipated accompanying video soon to be released. Caribbean-influenced beats make this a song you can ride to! The song could have many meanings, as it's a declaration of gratitude. Who has never let you down? God? Your spouse? Your best friend?
When I'm lost and there's no other way/I know you'll be there just to light up the day/You Never Let Me Down
3) "It's Been So Long"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj
You know what got me first with this song? Its groove!! This is not mom & pop's music y'all -- it's the reason why the album is so difficult to classify as "gospel". But the message stands strong; it's plea to God for reacceptance after straying away and realizing that life is nothing without God. Oh, and it's my jam. (lol)
Now how can I live without 'cha?/Cuz I'm only alive when I'm with ya/It's cold out here on my own/Without of the warmth of your love inside
4) "Feel It All"
Written by MWj
Produced by MWj and Josiah Bell
Have you ever gone through something and looked for those closest to you, only to find that they're not there? That's what this song is about; encouraging those closest to you. You never know what someone might be going through. Sometimes you have to reach out and let your people know that you're feeling their pain. Winans and Bell combine to create a nice mid-tempo R&B groove.
How can you expect anyone for anyone to care/For your situations when you don't care for theirs?/You might run into a problem where you need a friend/Reach back and the hand you need isn't there
5) "Put Your Love on Me"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj.
As I understand it, this was to be the original lead single for the CD. I've seen some feedback on Marvin's MySpace page by some fans who state that it should've been. Either way, this might be the next one. It's a track that bumps. Winans talks about the disappointments that often come at the hands of others, and pleads for God to touch him in his time of hurt.
Where would I be if I didn't know you loved me?/Put Your Love on Me/Put Your Love on Me/How could I live without your love around me?
6) "Steps to a Man"
Written and Produced by MWj
I'm beginning to think that this is my favorite song on the CD. Never did I expect to hear a rock ballad on this joint. (lol) When I first heard it, I was like 'man that's a nice song'. But when I actually listened to it, the lyrics grabbed me. It's deeply personal, and although I am a woman and know nothing about being a man, the second verse was pretty much a page out of my life. And dude, I had no idea that Marvin had that crazy range. Dude.
How could the lights begin to fade on a love that was so true?/Or maybe untrue?/I can't fathom how it all began and ended as fast/Why couldn't it last?
7) "Come 2 Me"
Written by MWj and Warryn Campbell
Produced by Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell
One of the early "releases" from this CD, "Come 2 Me" is a plea from God for all of us to turn to Him during our time of pain. It has a smooth R&B sound that is guaranteed to have to bobbing your head.
Life may pull you low/But I'm on high/You can do so much better now/Heaven is my home/But I should live inside your heart
8) "U Know Love"
Written by Noel Fisher and MWj
Produced by Noel "Detail" Fisher
This song's bassline is crazy. That's the first thing you'll notice: your rearview mirror rattling. (lol) Winans speaks to the ladies here; those who rely on material things and attention from men to find fulfillment. He states that love is more than this; love is more than a temporary feeling, and admonishes ladies in this situation to hold out for the real thing!
She's gotta have Dolce & Gabbana/Louis, Gucci and Prada/Spending all that she got/So the fellas can say that like everything they see/Cuz everybody likes fantasies/They wanna dream a little dream/But it's never what it seems
9) "Believe"
Written by Fred Jerkins, Lashawn Daniels and MWj
Produced by Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins
The title speaks for itself! lol. Simply put, believe that God will do what you ask Him to! Just believe! Another uptempo jam from Fred Jerkins! (I bet you find yourself "car dancing" at the break...lol)
Belieeeeeeeeve/I'll do it!
10) "Mistakes"
Written and Produced by MWj
Beautifully simple, with Winans singing at the piano, this song is an apology for shortcomings. Hello, we've all jacked up one way or another, so we can all relate! It's a plea for God to come in a clean up yet another mess. Absolutely gorgeous song.
Who can shield me from dismay if you don't?/Who can kiss the pain away if you won't?/I need love/I need love in the hardest way/Like the Romans say/My mistakes weren't build in a day
11) "Push Pull (It's Alright)"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj
Now, we've all been there. Someone has pushed you to the point of nuttin' up. In this mid-tempo song, Winans encourages us out here to take a minute and walk away before you say something crazy. Folk will push you to that point -- grab the door and push/pull your way outta there! :-P
Push Pull/I know what you're going through/If they don't get you that's okay/I know you feel they gotta pay/Go and walk out that door/You wanna just let it show/If you can't find the words to say/Then let it go and know it's alright
12) "A Single Rose"
Written and Produced by MWj
This is a beautiful love song to Jesus, a song of gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice. Winans is joined by David May on acoustic guitar.
And I care about the time you spent on the cross/Looking down on a world that was so lost/Trying to decide if it was worth the pain/Just to let every man and woman live again
13) "Let It Out"
Written and Produced my MWj
Relationships. They come and go; question is, how do you cope when they end? In some cases, people have difficulty moving on. In this song, Winans encourages us to release that pain, not to let it eat away at you. He cites people who have killed/commited suicide to escape the pain. There's a better solution!!
Let It Out/Yes You Can//You'll Start Anew, just/Let it out/As you cry/You can try to/Go ahead and pray/If you never have you can start today/Yes I know things might be hard for you/But please don't hold it, control it, you know you should let it out
14) "Believe ('Baby Brotha' Remix)"
Remix by Josiah "Baby Brotha" Winans
MWj lets his younger brother take the reins on this remix to "Believe", and the younger bro handles himself nicely! If this were back in the day, I'd probably call this a "skate mix"! Baby Brotha brings in the synthesizers and ramps the song up a notch, guaranteed to make you dance!! :)
Next up: whatever I eventually listen to next. I've got a long list of music...probably no more track-by-track reviews tho. That took forEVER.
VOTE OR DIE!!!
With foolishness like this, a vote for Obama is almost a necessity. Click the picture for a better view of "a mature and racially tolerant America".
Supposedly taken in Florida. I'm so proud.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Random Thought Post
It's been a while since I actually remained loyal to the purpose of this blog. Let the drain begin:
****
I don't know, maybe I'm being unreasonable, but why do people wait until they actually get sick to worry about their health insurance? It amazes me, the number of people who ask to see the social worker once hospitalized, and ask about getting hooked up with Medicaid. And, of course, I can't help them get it. I direct them back to the Department of Children and Family services because that's all I can do. I want people to be more proactive, especially when children are involved. Don't wait until the day you get discharged from the hospital and ask "oh, so what about health insurance?" Preventative care can help you avoid these hospital visits to begin with. [/end PSA]
****
I've finally decided to go ahead and apply for my Florida licensure. I know, I'm a bum. I've worked here over a year and am just getting around to this. Part of the process is the completely annoying task of pulling my college transcript and printing out the corresponding course descriptions from my graduate program. Going through my transcript made me extremely nostalgic. My college days were good. Perfect, no. But enjoyable. My classes were interesting, and although I experienced my fair share of stress during those days, nothing compares to the stuff I deal with now. There was more to do, more spontenaity, more MEN to choose from (hello!), and a quality of life that you never see again. I didn't get involved in a lot of mess during college - I was a "good girl" - but I had fun nonetheless. There is so much I would've done differently, so many things I'd keep the same, some decisions I would've reversed, and I probably would've traveled abroad for a semester. If only I had a time machine....
****
I called my mother on Saturday night to see how her interview went in Virginia, and she sounded real choked up. I asked what she was doing, and she told me that she just finished blubbering through the season premiere of "CSI:". I had taped it, but put off watching it because I knew it would be brutal. I finally watched it last night. I won't go into details for those who may follow or may be waiting to watch it on their DVRs also, but I SOBBED through the entire episode. Oh Gawd. I cried so hard that I had a headache afterwards. I had to go to bed! I felt kinda stupid crying over a tv character like that...you just never know how some things will affect you!
****
These election ads are making me nuckin' futs. If I see the "Obama's Blind Ambition" ad one more time (I promise, they show it every 15 minutes). Everytime I see Sarah Palin on tv and hear her speak, I throw up a little in my mouth. I can't wait for all of this to be over. I'm ready for our new president....President Obama :)
****
So. Suze Orman was on Oprah yesterday (?) and, as usual, was yelling at people about their financial decisions. Don't get me wrong, I love Suze, but everytime I get serious about buying a home she scares me out of it. She was talking to a young lady in a very similar financial situation as me, who was looking for her first home at the same price point that I'm considering, and Suze told her that she can't afford it. *facepalm* Sadly, the girl on tv had more money saved than I currently do, which is all the more depressing. It's scaring me out of something that is already kinda scary -- but I NEED to do this. I NEED to buy a home!
****
Today my stepmother turns 50 years old. I love the internet. In my broken mind, her birthday is 10/16, not 10/14. I realized this on yesterday, so I hurried up and ordered some flowers, which have already been delivered. *sigh* I'm glad, she'll be surprised when she gets home. :)
****
My girlfriends and I are planning to cruise Royal Caribbean's "Oasis of the Seas" -- in 2010. I know it's a loooong way away, but the ship doesn't have its maiden voyage until next December, and cabins are already selling out well into 2010. The travel agent gave us a tentative sail date of October 30, and is going to hold a block of cabins for us. The organizer is going to put together a flyer, which I will forward to all interested parties. Now, here's the tricky thing - as you know, 2010 is two years away. A LOT can change in two years. My girl and I were both laughing about this today. It's very difficult to make cabin assignments when most of us happily anticipate being married or at least seriously dating someone in October 2010. Looks like many of the women going - sad to say - are reserving cabins in their own name, hoping to add that companion later on. And, if it doesn't happen, will then find a girl to room with. Cabin assignments aren't hard to change. It's just a funny reality as we try to plan this trip -- and we both agree that we'll be SALTY if our roommate is a female chick.
****
I don't know, maybe I'm being unreasonable, but why do people wait until they actually get sick to worry about their health insurance? It amazes me, the number of people who ask to see the social worker once hospitalized, and ask about getting hooked up with Medicaid. And, of course, I can't help them get it. I direct them back to the Department of Children and Family services because that's all I can do. I want people to be more proactive, especially when children are involved. Don't wait until the day you get discharged from the hospital and ask "oh, so what about health insurance?" Preventative care can help you avoid these hospital visits to begin with. [/end PSA]
****
I've finally decided to go ahead and apply for my Florida licensure. I know, I'm a bum. I've worked here over a year and am just getting around to this. Part of the process is the completely annoying task of pulling my college transcript and printing out the corresponding course descriptions from my graduate program. Going through my transcript made me extremely nostalgic. My college days were good. Perfect, no. But enjoyable. My classes were interesting, and although I experienced my fair share of stress during those days, nothing compares to the stuff I deal with now. There was more to do, more spontenaity, more MEN to choose from (hello!), and a quality of life that you never see again. I didn't get involved in a lot of mess during college - I was a "good girl" - but I had fun nonetheless. There is so much I would've done differently, so many things I'd keep the same, some decisions I would've reversed, and I probably would've traveled abroad for a semester. If only I had a time machine....
****
I called my mother on Saturday night to see how her interview went in Virginia, and she sounded real choked up. I asked what she was doing, and she told me that she just finished blubbering through the season premiere of "CSI:". I had taped it, but put off watching it because I knew it would be brutal. I finally watched it last night. I won't go into details for those who may follow or may be waiting to watch it on their DVRs also, but I SOBBED through the entire episode. Oh Gawd. I cried so hard that I had a headache afterwards. I had to go to bed! I felt kinda stupid crying over a tv character like that...you just never know how some things will affect you!
****
These election ads are making me nuckin' futs. If I see the "Obama's Blind Ambition" ad one more time (I promise, they show it every 15 minutes). Everytime I see Sarah Palin on tv and hear her speak, I throw up a little in my mouth. I can't wait for all of this to be over. I'm ready for our new president....President Obama :)
****
So. Suze Orman was on Oprah yesterday (?) and, as usual, was yelling at people about their financial decisions. Don't get me wrong, I love Suze, but everytime I get serious about buying a home she scares me out of it. She was talking to a young lady in a very similar financial situation as me, who was looking for her first home at the same price point that I'm considering, and Suze told her that she can't afford it. *facepalm* Sadly, the girl on tv had more money saved than I currently do, which is all the more depressing. It's scaring me out of something that is already kinda scary -- but I NEED to do this. I NEED to buy a home!
****
Today my stepmother turns 50 years old. I love the internet. In my broken mind, her birthday is 10/16, not 10/14. I realized this on yesterday, so I hurried up and ordered some flowers, which have already been delivered. *sigh* I'm glad, she'll be surprised when she gets home. :)
****
My girlfriends and I are planning to cruise Royal Caribbean's "Oasis of the Seas" -- in 2010. I know it's a loooong way away, but the ship doesn't have its maiden voyage until next December, and cabins are already selling out well into 2010. The travel agent gave us a tentative sail date of October 30, and is going to hold a block of cabins for us. The organizer is going to put together a flyer, which I will forward to all interested parties. Now, here's the tricky thing - as you know, 2010 is two years away. A LOT can change in two years. My girl and I were both laughing about this today. It's very difficult to make cabin assignments when most of us happily anticipate being married or at least seriously dating someone in October 2010. Looks like many of the women going - sad to say - are reserving cabins in their own name, hoping to add that companion later on. And, if it doesn't happen, will then find a girl to room with. Cabin assignments aren't hard to change. It's just a funny reality as we try to plan this trip -- and we both agree that we'll be SALTY if our roommate is a female chick.
Monday, October 13, 2008
The Weekend
Okay, since Miss TOSHA fussed me out on Facebook (lol), I GUESS I'll log an entry as a follow-up to my prior post. But I have something more pressing to discuss first.
Like...
WHAT THE KCUF IS WRONG WITH THE MICHIGAN WOLVERINES?!?! We lost to TOLEDO on Saturday. TOLEDO. This season has gone to hell faster than OJ Simpson in gasoline draws. My boys in blue, once a football powerhouse among not only the Big Ten, but throughout the NCAA, now have us wondering if we'll even see a bowl game come December/January. My friend is flying to Michigan from LA for a game next month (versus Northwestern), and is afraid that we'll end up with another hash mark in the "L" column. WTF! I don't know this team. I'll still support them, still rock my maize and blue, but I have ZERO trash to talk when time comes for the almighty matchup with Ohio State. *facepalm*
Ok, so onto the blind date that I was anxious about when I wrote the last post. We met up at the local Bahama Breeze restaurant on Friday night. He told me what he'd be wearing, so I spotted him immediately. I really didn't want to be there, by the way. I'm so not into this type of thing. Anyway, my co-worker exaggerated a little when she said he doesn't look "anything close to 47". To me, he totally did. How do I describe him -- tall, regular build, mustache, thinning brown hair, crooked smile. He's a nice guy, but I felt no attraction whatsoever. First thing he said was "I already knew what you'd look like." I looked at him like he had 5 heads, and he admitted that he tracked me down on MySpace and saw my page. (sorry, but that was weird to me). I asked how that was possible, as my page is privatized, and he said that he punched in my first and last name and just saw my profile pic. Oh, okay. But still...:-/. Conversation was unremarkable. Like I said, nice guy, no attraction. It's clear he has money -- he mentioned that he owns several rental properties in Tampa, works from home, and flossed a $100 bill to pay for our appetizers and drinks, but money isn't enough for me. I think we could be cool, but I have no romantic interest.
So, the date wasn't as horrible as my Facebook status made it seem, I'm just over the "blind" introductions. I'd rather meet someone the way I always have -- in person. OR, if I'm gonna be set up, let it be by someone who knows me and what makes me tick. Less uncomfortable dinner meetings will occur that way.
Like...
WHAT THE KCUF IS WRONG WITH THE MICHIGAN WOLVERINES?!?! We lost to TOLEDO on Saturday. TOLEDO. This season has gone to hell faster than OJ Simpson in gasoline draws. My boys in blue, once a football powerhouse among not only the Big Ten, but throughout the NCAA, now have us wondering if we'll even see a bowl game come December/January. My friend is flying to Michigan from LA for a game next month (versus Northwestern), and is afraid that we'll end up with another hash mark in the "L" column. WTF! I don't know this team. I'll still support them, still rock my maize and blue, but I have ZERO trash to talk when time comes for the almighty matchup with Ohio State. *facepalm*
Ok, so onto the blind date that I was anxious about when I wrote the last post. We met up at the local Bahama Breeze restaurant on Friday night. He told me what he'd be wearing, so I spotted him immediately. I really didn't want to be there, by the way. I'm so not into this type of thing. Anyway, my co-worker exaggerated a little when she said he doesn't look "anything close to 47". To me, he totally did. How do I describe him -- tall, regular build, mustache, thinning brown hair, crooked smile. He's a nice guy, but I felt no attraction whatsoever. First thing he said was "I already knew what you'd look like." I looked at him like he had 5 heads, and he admitted that he tracked me down on MySpace and saw my page. (sorry, but that was weird to me). I asked how that was possible, as my page is privatized, and he said that he punched in my first and last name and just saw my profile pic. Oh, okay. But still...:-/. Conversation was unremarkable. Like I said, nice guy, no attraction. It's clear he has money -- he mentioned that he owns several rental properties in Tampa, works from home, and flossed a $100 bill to pay for our appetizers and drinks, but money isn't enough for me. I think we could be cool, but I have no romantic interest.
So, the date wasn't as horrible as my Facebook status made it seem, I'm just over the "blind" introductions. I'd rather meet someone the way I always have -- in person. OR, if I'm gonna be set up, let it be by someone who knows me and what makes me tick. Less uncomfortable dinner meetings will occur that way.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Personal Preference
**breaking my own rules again**
So I have a blind date tonight. I don't fare well on blind dates. (that's another post). Basically, my co-worker approached me a couple weeks ago and told me that there's this guy she knows and wants us to meet. *le sigh* In an effort to remain open-minded, I told her that she could give him my number, after getting some preliminary information about him. First red flag: she asked my age and when I told her "29", she was like - "oh good, he likes 'em young". I was like "how the hayle old IS he?". "47..but he doesn't look it or act it at ALL". *blank stare*. Do you know that my stepmother will be 50 next week?? I'm just sayin'. Too old.
I had completely forgotten about this until yesterday, when the guy called. He would like to meet up today for a drink, that way we can see if there's anything there or not. I have a feeling I already won't be interested. Why, do you ask?
Age, for one, but this is where it gets sticky. It's clear that he is a white man. I've never dated white men, never particularly had interest in doing so. I love, appreciate and am attracted to black men sooooo much that I've never been led to give up on them (tempted, yes..lol). Even in spite of the shady stuff they've done to me. My good friend just married an Italian man and encouraged me to stay open-minded about other races, but I still don't think I'm there yet. Unless this man looks like George Clooney or Matthew McConaughey (who, by the way, has a very hard name to spell), I probably won't go for it. I agreed to meet him and see how it goes, but I'm walking in with my mind already made up. I feel like Sanaa Lathan in the beginning of "Something New", when she meets the guy for the first time at Starbucks and is like 'hecks naw'.
So what is a delicate way to approach this issue, next time someone tries to set me up? My co-worker, who is white or Latina (I'm not sure), never asked me if I'm into white guys. I felt it would've been politically incorrect to ask her of his race/ethnicity, but why waste this guy's time if I'm not interested? And do I say anything to him at ALL about it??
So I have a blind date tonight. I don't fare well on blind dates. (that's another post). Basically, my co-worker approached me a couple weeks ago and told me that there's this guy she knows and wants us to meet. *le sigh* In an effort to remain open-minded, I told her that she could give him my number, after getting some preliminary information about him. First red flag: she asked my age and when I told her "29", she was like - "oh good, he likes 'em young". I was like "how the hayle old IS he?". "47..but he doesn't look it or act it at ALL". *blank stare*. Do you know that my stepmother will be 50 next week?? I'm just sayin'. Too old.
I had completely forgotten about this until yesterday, when the guy called. He would like to meet up today for a drink, that way we can see if there's anything there or not. I have a feeling I already won't be interested. Why, do you ask?
Age, for one, but this is where it gets sticky. It's clear that he is a white man. I've never dated white men, never particularly had interest in doing so. I love, appreciate and am attracted to black men sooooo much that I've never been led to give up on them (tempted, yes..lol). Even in spite of the shady stuff they've done to me. My good friend just married an Italian man and encouraged me to stay open-minded about other races, but I still don't think I'm there yet. Unless this man looks like George Clooney or Matthew McConaughey (who, by the way, has a very hard name to spell), I probably won't go for it. I agreed to meet him and see how it goes, but I'm walking in with my mind already made up. I feel like Sanaa Lathan in the beginning of "Something New", when she meets the guy for the first time at Starbucks and is like 'hecks naw'.
So what is a delicate way to approach this issue, next time someone tries to set me up? My co-worker, who is white or Latina (I'm not sure), never asked me if I'm into white guys. I felt it would've been politically incorrect to ask her of his race/ethnicity, but why waste this guy's time if I'm not interested? And do I say anything to him at ALL about it??
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Ray Ray 'nem & Carnival uglyness
First up: Bridgette and Maya give their impression of Carnival's decor in the main dining room
Next: One of "'nem" with Ray-Ray's group offers her rendition of "And I Am Telling You". Please note: her girl wore the same shirt as she, only with no pants. Also note my friends' reaction to the singing.
Next: One of "'nem" with Ray-Ray's group offers her rendition of "And I Am Telling You". Please note: her girl wore the same shirt as she, only with no pants. Also note my friends' reaction to the singing.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Cruise in Review
Although it would be easier to copy & paste my recap from Xanga over here, I prefer to write another cruise review instead. I did a play-by-play recap over there, but this post will be more critical. After taking two cruises in one year on two different cruise lines, and two VERY different ships, a compare/contrast & partial photoblog would be more fun to me.
June 1, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas
Miami, FL to San Juan, PR, St. Thomas USVI and St. Maarten
June 1, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas
Miami, FL to San Juan, PR, St. Thomas USVI and St. Maarten
When it set sail in 2006, it was the largest cruise ship in the world at 160,000 tons. The thing can hold 3,600+ passengers, is 1,111 ft long, has 15 decks, a Ben & Jerry's, Johnny Rockets and two additional restaurants in addition to the main dining room and buffet grill. The Royal Promenade stretches through the middle of the ship like a city street, lined with bars, shops and restaurants. The decor - gorgeous. There is an ice skating rink and Flowrider surfing simulator, along with a rock climbing wall. And let's not forget my favorite part of the cruise: cruise director Richard Spacey, who had me even looking forward to the morning announcement just so I could hear what funny thing he'd say next. The rest of the staff was amazing, from our room steward Desmond, to our waitress Marvalyn, to the beverage waiter Junior, to the rest of the entertainment staff. The production shows were excellent, comedians funny, and there was always Richard. Freedom did have an unfair advantage, because it was a 7 day cruise, but still. Our stateroom had a large balcony, with a retractable divider between the one next to us, allowing us to connect our balcony with William and Rhonda's. The only issues I had with the cruise was the late karaoke times and the fact that my mom and her friends were early birds, leaving me alone on the ship most of the time.
Some other pics from the Freedom:
The fantastic Royal Promenade
The stage between the sports pool and main pool on Deck 11
Me and Richard Spacey, our amazing cruise director
The Arcadia Theater
So, that was my first Royal Caribbean experience. I told myself that I was an RC convert after that cruise. But I had this one yet to complete:
October 2 - October 6, 2008
October 2 - October 6, 2008
Carnival Inspiration
Tampa, FL to Cozumel, Mexico
The Carnival Inspiration had its maiden voyage in 1996. The ship is 70,367 tons, is 855 ft long, and has a passenger capacity of 2,052. There are 10 decks. From land, any cruise ship will look large. Although the Freedom took my breath away, I was still able to appreciate the size of the Inspiration. My first Carnival cruise was on the Ecstasy, which I don't even think sails anymore and my second was on the Carnival Pride, which was pretty large. Since the RC cruise was so fresh in my mind, however, that was my point of comparison. So, bullet-by-bullet, here were the differences:
- Check-in: On RC, the check-in process - even for a regular stateroom - was swift and effective inside the terminal. Both cruise lines offered online check-in, but in the Carnival terminal, if you weren't VIP, you had to stand in a massive line that moved at a snail's pace. Thank the LORD we were VIPs.
- Aesthetics: You saw the Royal Promenade above, right? The Inspiration's grand atrium paled in comparison, and the decor was....well...take a look:
- The People: So, this is where I'll sound super-bougie. But the people on the Carnival ship were GHETTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOO. You could TELL that this cruise was on sale, because Ray-Ray 'nem were out in full force. And folks weren't particularly friendly either. I don't know if it was because it was this side of the country or what, because I don't remember the Carnival Pride, which left out of LA, being that bad. Lil' Wayne lookalikes and burnt orange lobster people everywhere. The whole feel of the ship was drastically different than the Freedom. I saw fingerwaves and matching lime green outfits and booty claps in the dance club. *smh*
- Food: Perhaps this is TMI, but although the food was good on the Carnival cruise, we all spent the entire cruise constipated. All nine of us. Seriously. We weren't eating a lot of foolishness. Something just wasn't right.
- Production Shows: Royal Caribbean offered an amazing magician, three elaborate musical productions, the uber-hilarious "Love and Marriage" gameshow, and Richard Spacey at each one. Carnival gave us "Shout", an erratic musical revue with no real theme (how "Macarena" and "Joyful, Joyful" fit into the same show, I'll never know). They also offered "Fiesta Latina" aka "Latin Confusion" ("Day-O"? Really?). The cruise director was Risa, and wasn't very engaging and not really funny. We caught their version of the Love & Marriage gameshow on the ship tv channel, and at the end they humiliated the husbands by making them dance around the stage in boxers and suspenders. Only. *wtf*
- Shore Excursions: I'm giving it to Carnival on this one. RC didn't really have any excursions of interest, so we didn't purchase one in any of the three ports we visited. On the other hand, I had the opportunity to zip line and rappel in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta on the Pride, and in Cozumel three of my friends and I participated in the "Amazing Cozumel Race", which was unbelievably fun. We may have been stinky, sore and tired, but it was well worth the $81 we spent.
- Pool Decks: The Inspiration's pool was pitiful. We dubbed it the Baby Wading Pool, because in essence, that's what it was. And it was filled with saltwater, which...why? They did have a water park in the back with a twisty slide, which was fun. But no pool to soak or float in made it not so great. There were also two hot tubs, but the kids took them over. Both ships had "adults only" areas that are off-limits to folks under 21, and they were both veeeery relaxing. RC had "adults only" hot tubs that jetted out from the side of the ship, which totally made my life wonderful.
Inspiration's pool deck
When we completed the comment card, the final question was: would you cruise Carnival again. I actually checked "no". I think it's cool for a first time/second time cruise, or at least until you cruise another line and actually know better. Of my group of nine, I was the only person who had cruised before. And although they all said that they'd cruise again, a few of my girls said that they wouldn't do Carnival again. My friend Maya even said, "I don't think I'm a Carnival girl". Could it be due to the scattered foolishness throughout the ship? Or the fact that everyone in our cabin had sinus issues except me? Or perhaps we just have different tastes than what Carnival can offer. I do partially blame my mother's friend William for poisoning me against Carnival, but he's right....as much as I hate to admit it. I think the dancing chaser lights in the dining room sealed the deal for me. (lol)Monday, October 6, 2008
zzzzzzzz
Just got in from my cruise to Cozumel. I am exhausted. I will write a "real" blog later, along with responding to comments from earlier blogs. But right now, this girl needs a nap. I have two airport runs to make today; one in merely an hour, so any nap I take will be brief. What I will say is this:
4 days = Too short
Cozumel = great
Carnival = I'm done
Suite w/balcony = only way to go
I'll be back to write later!
4 days = Too short
Cozumel = great
Carnival = I'm done
Suite w/balcony = only way to go
I'll be back to write later!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
"NOBODY makes me bleed my own blood!"
Genius. Last night I went to take a bite of my sandwich and my lip split. I don't quite understand how this happened, considering I keep Chapstick with me at all times. And I mean, it was bleeding. *wtf* I am probably compounding the problem by putting on more Chapstick, but how else do I stop the ouchy?
****
One of the vendors stopped by and blessed me with a $5 Starbucks giftcard. Mind you, I haven't had a white mocha in about three weeks now. I was feenin' for some Starbucks this morning too, so I went around 11:00. The barista asked me where I had been, because - yes - I was in that joint every morning at one point. I told her that "my economy has been in a recession". She drew up my regular, made it a grande instead of a tall, and threw in an extra espresso shot for kicks and giggles. I am so hyper right now I don't know what to do with myself. Caffeine is no JOKE!
****
I've finally downloaded my application to register for my social work license in Florida. I was pissed when I moved here, because my Ohio license didn't transfer and I had to do the process all over again. And it's all about $$$$, which I find ironic considering social workers don't get paid that much to begin with. At least I downloaded the application. Step one: completed.
****
It's so hard to stay focused when you're going on vacation the next day. This entire day has pretty much been a loss. I'd much rather blog, read blogs, and refresh Facebook constantly than do actual work.
****
Marvin Jr aka Coconut had his CD release party at Perfecting Church last night (Detroit). Sadly, I couldn't attend due to tomorrow's travels. They aren't that lenient with the days off, and as I said before, my economy is in a recession. I heard the party was REALLY nice. He premiered the music video that I gave blood, sweat and tears to help get shot here in Tampa, and he sang a duet with his father, Pastor Winans. I would've LOVED to see that. Fortunately, my girl videotaped it. ***waiting patiently for the upload*** I'll link to it when it's up.
****
My girl is starting a book club here in Tampa. I think it's a great idea. A book club is something I've always wanted to be a part of, but never had the initiative to start one or find a good one. I'm looking forward to participating. There is always a wrinkle though. This is my friend from church, my park pal. She and I are..how can you say.. more "liberal" Christians. Meaning, we recognize our imperfections, love the Lord with all of our hearts, minds and souls, but don't live life closed up in the "Christian" box. Trust, I used to be that girl. I'm still pretty conservative, but I'll see an R rated movie, or sip a martini, or...well, let's just say I've relaxed. My girl will drop a four letter word at the drop of a hat, especially if she's pissed. At any rate, some of the people invited to the book club are still "in the box". She sent out a text asking if anyone would be offended if she chose a book using profanity or sexuality. I wrote back and said "girl I am not trying to read TD Jakes books and Christian fiction! There are far too many good books out there!! Just TELL them that the books are not by Christian authors and let them decide whether or not they want to participate, before this turns into Monday night bible study!!". (lol) So she wrote back and INFORMED us that some of the books might offend a few participants. Religious folk are a trip, you can't leave certain things up to discussion!
****
Ok why did I totally forget to eat lunch today? LMBO!!!!
****
My mind is racing, but I think I just hit a mental brick wall. I guess I'll go write some assessments.
****
One of the vendors stopped by and blessed me with a $5 Starbucks giftcard. Mind you, I haven't had a white mocha in about three weeks now. I was feenin' for some Starbucks this morning too, so I went around 11:00. The barista asked me where I had been, because - yes - I was in that joint every morning at one point. I told her that "my economy has been in a recession". She drew up my regular, made it a grande instead of a tall, and threw in an extra espresso shot for kicks and giggles. I am so hyper right now I don't know what to do with myself. Caffeine is no JOKE!
****
I've finally downloaded my application to register for my social work license in Florida. I was pissed when I moved here, because my Ohio license didn't transfer and I had to do the process all over again. And it's all about $$$$, which I find ironic considering social workers don't get paid that much to begin with. At least I downloaded the application. Step one: completed.
****
It's so hard to stay focused when you're going on vacation the next day. This entire day has pretty much been a loss. I'd much rather blog, read blogs, and refresh Facebook constantly than do actual work.
****
Marvin Jr aka Coconut had his CD release party at Perfecting Church last night (Detroit). Sadly, I couldn't attend due to tomorrow's travels. They aren't that lenient with the days off, and as I said before, my economy is in a recession. I heard the party was REALLY nice. He premiered the music video that I gave blood, sweat and tears to help get shot here in Tampa, and he sang a duet with his father, Pastor Winans. I would've LOVED to see that. Fortunately, my girl videotaped it. ***waiting patiently for the upload*** I'll link to it when it's up.
****
My girl is starting a book club here in Tampa. I think it's a great idea. A book club is something I've always wanted to be a part of, but never had the initiative to start one or find a good one. I'm looking forward to participating. There is always a wrinkle though. This is my friend from church, my park pal. She and I are..how can you say.. more "liberal" Christians. Meaning, we recognize our imperfections, love the Lord with all of our hearts, minds and souls, but don't live life closed up in the "Christian" box. Trust, I used to be that girl. I'm still pretty conservative, but I'll see an R rated movie, or sip a martini, or...well, let's just say I've relaxed. My girl will drop a four letter word at the drop of a hat, especially if she's pissed. At any rate, some of the people invited to the book club are still "in the box". She sent out a text asking if anyone would be offended if she chose a book using profanity or sexuality. I wrote back and said "girl I am not trying to read TD Jakes books and Christian fiction! There are far too many good books out there!! Just TELL them that the books are not by Christian authors and let them decide whether or not they want to participate, before this turns into Monday night bible study!!". (lol) So she wrote back and INFORMED us that some of the books might offend a few participants. Religious folk are a trip, you can't leave certain things up to discussion!
****
Ok why did I totally forget to eat lunch today? LMBO!!!!
****
My mind is racing, but I think I just hit a mental brick wall. I guess I'll go write some assessments.
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