PR Your Pics!

As we all know, pictures can tell a story in a thousand ways and usually based on one's perception. However, depending on the event and where the photo was taken and with who, it could serve as a great public relations tool to use for detailing an awesome outing. How? Glad you asked. Most times when we are invited to a great event, where there are movers and shakers, as well as other VIP's, the camera's are usually flashing all around to capture the attendees throughout the evening. Now, if you happen to be one of the lucky ones to make it on to the "red" carpet, then you are pretty much guaranteed to have a great story to tell about your picture. And, what you want to do is give your clients and/or readers a realistic synopsis of the evening in a way that makes them feel and wish that they were there. "PR-ing" your pictures also allows you to give some "pro bono" PR spins for the event planner, which makes people want to connect to that particular entity on a business level. So, with that being said..if you're in Marketing, PR  or Blogging, consider "PR-ing " your photos...you'll be glad you did!

Throw Me in Throw Me In The MixX will soon have a new home..Stay Tuned!

You've Just Been MixXed...Not Stirred!

Who is TKO T.R.E?

Ok, so, it isn't often that I meet someone who totally impresses me when it comes to music. However, there is an exception to every rule. Recently I had the opportunity to meet a young, rising star artist by the name of TKO T.R.E. from Richmond, VA and I was fortunate enough to be able to spend some time with him and get a personal look into who he is and what his message is about. TKO stands for Takeover Gang, not "gang" in the violent sense, but "gang" as in his family, friends and supporters. At, 19 years old, TKO T.R.E. offers a true experience of his life via his conscious/street style of music, which was evident in his recent video, "Who Am I?". How many times have we asked ourselves this question. If you want to learn more about TKO T.R.E.,visit him on www.takeovergang.blogspot.com, follow on twitter @takeovergangTRE.  Also, download his music here, http://www.mediafire.com/?c8xoxonhopyas8e

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Take Your Shades Off....

It's amazing how we go through life never really seeing it for what it is because of the type of shades that we wear. I'm not speaking of “shades” in the literal since, but shades that double as blinders. I believe that a lot of us wear shades to protect ourselves from seeing people or situations as reality. However, there are always going to be times of adversity when the shades are going to have to come off and you will have to face your fears head on. This is when we realize that what our “shade” reality is/was is totally different from “naked eye” reality, which is being able to look through the soul of people and situations without any filters. Experiencing life in this manner can be a scary thing because it forces us to really think about the lies that we have based our lives on, constantly telling ourselves, “our that person isn't so bad.” or “ everything is all good in my home.”, when it just isn't the truth. People we have got to be more conscious about who or what we decide to wear shades for, because at the end of the day they can be keeping you from reality and setting you up for total blindness.

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I'm Missing My Show!

How many times have you been watching television only to find yourself torn between two different shows? I know that it happens to me ALL the time. I rarely have a chance to watch one program and the whole time I'm wondering what's going on with the other show. Now, I totally understand that we live in a time where technology makes it so much easier to be able to have your show and watch one too via DVR, But, sometimes DVR isn't an option so you get the idea in your mind that I'm going to out smart TV and flip during the commercials in an effort to keep up with what's going on, which at the time, seems like a “fool proof” plan. Well, lo and behold every single time one show is on commercial so is the other! Damnit! The plan has gone down in shambles and you've ended up missing what you wanted to see most. So, what can we learn from this little scenario? In life we have choices on top of choices and a lot of times we are not going to be able to do everything that we desire based on timing, meaning that we always need to be ready to“choose our choices” In order to keep from having to run into “commercial” situations. The thing is that just like TV shows re-runs will always allow you to catch on what you missed and so will life! It's simple, watch one show at a time.

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Story v. Life...Choose One?

What happens when you choose to get “stuck” in your story or circumstances instead of living your life? Do you feel as though your story is allowing you to reach your full potential of becoming what you are destined to be in life? Well, here's my take on this question. Your “story” is not always who you are, but there are times when we experience challenges that have such an impact, that we just don't know how to think or feel any other way outside of our circumstance. So many times we see individuals that have had great success in life, nice homes, cars and everything else imaginable and, out of nowhere...BOOM, it all comes crashing down and they're left in a place that is very unfamiliar to them. Left unable to deal with the stresses and strains of their circumstances they will, at times, begin to blame others for their failures, going into a depression and before you know it they have given up completely. Making them just a hollow shell of who they once were, their families get to a place where they no longer recognize their beloved husband, wife or parent, which is why it is very important to not get caught up in your “story”, but to live life as it happens. It's when we start to really live life that we can find the meaning in our challenges and embrace them as part of a divine plan to help us reach our higher selves. Also, when you choose life over circumstance the bondage of your beast is like looking at roses in a garden, blamed become blameless and accountability becomes a priority. When you start to live life outside of your story, you will be amazed at the transformations and opportunities that will began to rest upon you as a “Life Lover” and not a “Story Sticker”! So, I challenge you all that are out there stuck in your story, to find that point in your life where you want to begin living and do so. You will be astounded at the dimensions of awesome that you will be embracing. Every person has a story. It's not how you tell it, but how you live it!

End The Story!

You've Just Been MixXed....Not Stirred!

Your "Favorite" Shirt....

Do you have a "favorite" shirt or piece of clothing that you just love to wear? I know that I do, however I choose to refrain from wearing it all the time out of fear that people may notice and wonder, "why is that shirt ALWAYS in the rotation?" The truth of the matter is that you were attracted to it when you bought it. It made you feel good and it fit you as if were made specifically for you. However, you have to put your "favorite" shirt in the closet from time to time in order to allow time for it "air out", be cleaned, pressed and prepared for the next time you wear it. If you had your choice, it would be on your body every chance you got. It's almost like having that special person in your life that you want to be able to have around all the time, but can't because of how life is built around you. So, instead of keeping them around "physically", you keep them in a place close "emotionally", under you covering and protected from your world. And, when the time is right you never resist a chance to call on your "favorite" for completion. But, like any other piece of clothing, friendships can get worn, torn, tattered and outgrown, pick your "favorites" wisely because you can be let down.

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21 Days and You're HOOKED! Or, Not!

I recently had a conversation with a friend, who always says, "doing anything for 21 days straight will become a habit". Hearing this school of thought made me actually wonder if there was some truth to this statement. I began thinking about my own "habits" and the funny thing is that I don't even remember how they came into play or how long it took. What I do know is that "habits" are usually repetitive events that are kind of 2nd nature. So, if you're dating someone for 21 days straight does that make it a "habit" to be with that person? I understand the fact that if you're on medication or an exercise program then you will probably be more prone to making those part of your daily fiber. However, not all things take 21 days to become habit. If you have things in your life that make you happy and give you a certain amount of peace then I feel that it will become a "habit"immediately! But, if there are situations that we are forced into for a period of time, then the chances of it becoming part of your "habit" roster are very slim.

Just My Thoughts

You've Just Been MixXed...Not Stirred!

So…here’s the thing..I’ve been sitting here doing something that I RARELY do, and that’s watching the “Bad Girls Club” Marathon. As I started to watch it dawned on me that there are so many shows out television these days that do nothing but show women fighting, gossiping, partying and shopping! Surely, there’s a lot more to females than that.  And, the fact that television producers are getting rich and high ratings off this crap is ridiculous because I know people that crave watching drama-filled shows such as, Basketball Wives (mostly ex’s), Mob Wives, Real Housewives and others shows out there, in order to see who going to be fighting who. Come on people, we have to look at our women in a better way than what’s portrayed in these series. However, I can’t help but wonder if this is how men and some women really view females, considering that women are viewed to be catty, dramatic and easily provoked. Nevertheless, this is not a true depiction of women because most are truly about something other than what is viewed on drama/fight shows. So, why not come out with series that portray women in a more positive light without all the shallow craziness and tom foolery? Who knows? Maybe I’ll come out with my own reality show!

You’ve Just Been MixXed….not Stirred!

You Are.....

I chose this photo because it reminded me that no matter how obstructed the view, light will always shine through.

You are... Strong

    You are... Resilient

       You are... Humorous

   You are... Humble

           You are.... God fearing

You are.... Love

         You are... Intelligent

    You are.... Family

      You are.... Support

            You are a... Risk Taker

          You are... Supportive

        You are...Emotional

        You are...Passionate

    You are...Fashion

      You are...Inspiring

You are....LIFE

You are...YOU

                       You are....The WARRIOR!

Dedicated to The Warrior..

You've Just Been MixXed...Not Stirred!

Your Final Four....

As we get into the frenzy of March Madness, basketball fans from all over the country are going to be cheering on their favorite teams and hoping that they make it to the Final Four. However, those who watch know that the challenge is tough, but can be achieved if you have the right team and support in place. Much like an individual going through adversity. When situations plague our lives the first thing we do is reach out to our team or support system. At the time it may seem as though you have a huge team of individuals that tell you that they "have your back", somewhat of a "Sweet 16" and as the obstacles become more and more difficult to face, you may start to notice that your support team is getting smaller as if they are eliminating themselves from the madness, which leads you to find yourself with fewer team members, but stronger nonetheless. These people can be viewed as your "Elite 8", meaning that they aren't as quick to leave you in the midst of your storm, but may falter in their support as your valley becomes deeper. However, you can't let the loss of supporters/team players get you down because it's all a part of a divine plan. Some people are made to stay on the court with you and some are made to ride the bench, while others have to be cut by the coaches "spiritual scissors" (thanks A.T). Nevertheless, just like the NCAA Tournament, only the strongest teams survive. Well, it's no different with people who are there to see you through adversity. You see, the goal is to get to your "Final Four" because this is when you know that you have the team above all teams and you are in a position to not only fight, but WIN. So, it's a must that you go through your "March Madness" process and discern who has the ability to sustain and support you through your lows as well as your highs, only then you will be able to create your Dream Team that will be your "Final Four". 

Dedicated to the Warrior...

You've Just Been MixXed..Not Stirred!

The Band Belief

As a music lover, every now and then I find a song or band that really moves me and captures my attention.  Offering a harmonic flow of hip-hop, neo-soul and jazz, The Band Belief has made me a believer.  It's rare (these days) to find musicians that pull you in on every sensory level and leave you feeling revived, rejuvenated and spent all in the same setting. There intensity and passion for their musicianship is unmatched by any new up and coming bands (in my opinion).  The Band Belief is a "real" band making "real" music and we have to support them 100%! Check them out on Youtube on The Band Belief channel, "Like" them on facebook at www.facebook.com/thebandbelief and Follow them on Twitter @thebandbelief. Trust me, you will NOT be sorry.

For Booking Information, email thebandbelief@gmail.com


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The Warrior...Unleashed!

So, here you go again bullying another innocent person with your diseased ridden tactics, coming to try and claim another victim. Well, I’m here to serve you notice BIG C…you have officially F’d with the wrong one. For ages you have been sneaking up on people without notice and silently taking them out with your relentless blows, causing the weak to have to be pumped full of toxins in order to stand up to you and unfortunately, you’ve one way too many battles and have caused families nothing but grief! Oh, but not in this case, buddy! You are going DOWN! Your opponent is the epitome of a Warrior that is both physically and spiritually strong and comes with a team of angels that will help fight you to your doom. You see, sickly Cancer bully you have met your match and although there will be times when you think that you are WINNING because of the strength it takes to fight you , this is only part of the set up. When you’re done fighting this Warrior you will feel like you were in a UFC battle with Kimbo Slice! Yeah, it’s going to be that kind of battle because you’ve Met Your Match. Trust me, we know that you can be beat based on all the others who’ve fought you and won, however this one is somewhat different. Why? This Warrior is NOT afraid of you. He stands tall, strong, and resilient and is going to look you square in your demon eyes and go toe-to-toe….blow-to-blow and will emerge VICTORIOUS against you! So, Big C, you might as well get ready to add another “L” to your losses because the Warrior is coming and has you in his sight and if there was any advice that I could offer to such a ratchet disease it would be…turn back while you still have a chance….LOSER!!!!!!

Vengeance belongs to The Warrior !

You’ve Just Been MixXed…Not Stirred

Vizion Consulting: Dreamers can be Achievers

Vizion Consulting: Dreamers can be Achievers: Every week I come in contact with individuals who have a dream. People who know what they want to happen with a project, an event or even...

Blameless Politics!

As we prepare for Election Year, it is no secret that the Republicans and the Democrats are in a battle for the White House. Not a day goes by that we don't hear another news reports or read an article where the two parties are pointing fingers at each other in regards to the woes of this country. Why can't we just all get along and shoulder up some of the blame? The truth of the matter is that there is no blameless party. Democrats and Republicans alike are responsible for the condition that the country is in, however it seems that it is easier to just blame President Barack Obama for ALL issues of the United States, which just isn't the case. It took 8 years to get America in this mess and cannot be cleaned up in just four years. So, what I would suggest is that we all get out and do our part by making our voices heard at the polls on Election Day and vote for the BEST candidate, instead of the candidate that you feel is going to build America back up in four years, because we all know that NO candidate, Republican, Independent, Democrat, etc.. can make that happen. We have to come together as a nation people...right and left!

How Will You be Remembered?

If you are a Whitney Houston Fan like I am, you probably took the time to watch her funeral via television or online stream. As I watched, I couldn’t help but feel the love and adoration that those in attendance felt for her. Beautiful, heartfelt tributes were spoken by Kevin Costner, Tyler Perry, BeBe Winans, just to name a few. While musical tributes were performed by Alicia Keyes, Stevie Wonder, Kim Burrell and others. And, through each of those words there was one common denominator…they all loved Whitney for who she was, not for who she had become through her struggles. What she left the world and her family was so much more than what the world gave back to her and she will be missed by all whom she touched and her legacy will live on stronger than it was in her life. After I watched the service, I couldn’t help but think about how I would want to be remembered. Am I on a path to make a difference in the lives of others that will allow my legacy to live on? Or, have I been on a journey to demise that will cause people to be thankful that I’m gone? Who knows? What I do know is that I’m a lover of life, family and friends and I will always to my best to touch the lives of those whom I meet. And, if I ever wrong or offend anyone, I want to be sure to make amends because at the end of the day. Tomorrow is not promised so; make a conscious decision to touch lives today and start creating your legacy and you will never have to wonder how you will be remembered.

You’ve Just Been MixXed….Not Stirred!

Remembering Whitney...(Cont.)

-Elton John providing a tribute to Whitney Houston.

As the Houston Family prepares to celebrate the life and legacy of their beloved Whitney Houston, the family had a huge decision to make as to whether or not to have a public or private funeral. After  much deliberation, Whitney's family thought that it would be best that they host a private invitation-only service, with  Pastor Marvin L. Winan's officiating.  Whitney Houston's mother( Cissy Houston) was quoted as saying, "We shared Whitney with the world for so many years, now is our time." Well, there must have been some more discussion regarding Whitney's Homegoing because local news stations have announced that the world will be able to participate in celebrating Whitney Houston's life via live internet stream from New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J. The Associated Press will provide live stream via LiveStream via the AP , which is just one source. My suggestion..logon on early because Remembering Whitney just may cause a circuit overload.

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RIP Whitney Houston...Your Legacy Will Live On!

Usher sang this song at MJ's Memorial Service and I felt that it was most appropriate as we celebrate the life and legacy of Whitney Houston. Both Whitney and MJ were music icons that gave the world more than the human mind can imagine. Losing stars of this caliber was almost like suffering the loss of a family member. Reality is that we all have an expiration date that we can never be prepared for, meaning that to family, friends and fans, one is always is described as being...."Gone too Soon".

You've Just Been MixXed...Not Stirred

What's Your Integrity Score?

Your Credit and Integrity are two things that you have ultimate control over. If you don't pay your bills on time then there is a possibility that you will have a low credit score that will prevent you from obtaining some of the most important finer things in life, such as cars, houses, loans, etc. Although this is a fact that we all are aware of, it doesn't seem to be a huge deal to a lot of people until they start to long to acquire more in life and stability. Typically, if your credit score is below 600 or so, you're seen as having poor credit and a financial risk to companies. However, the good thing is that there are always opportunities to take care of credit issues and regain financial stability. Now, here's the thing about integrity...your integrity is what makes you who you are. If, you don't  hold yourself and what you believe in in high regard, why should anyone else? Your beliefs, morals, and word are all pieces of the fabric that make a person who they are. People like to feel like they can trust and be trusted when dealing with others, which is why I came up with the term "integrity score". An "integrity score" is almost like your credit score. The more honest, forthright and morally upright your are with yourself and others, the higher your score would be and others are likely to trust your word as your bond. Whereas, if you find that you are a person who chooses to decieve, use and render a "bondless" word to any and everybody, regardless of how good they are to you, then I would be confident in saying that your "integrity score" is probably on the lower end. Unfortunately, this score isn't as easy increase like a credit score, because when you are entrusted with people's feelings they never forget the bad. The old addage says, "forgiven, but not forgotten" . So, you never fully recover from being careless with your integrity. My advice...always make sure that both your credit and integrity scores are held in the highest regard of care and respect. And, when in doubt, ask yourself, What will this situation do to my score?


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I Hate to Burst Your Peach.....

I'm going to keep this one short and sweet as a Georgia Peach. So, it’s no secret that I am a lover of libations, specifically...Ciroc Red Berry. However, ever since the company has launched their new Peach Ciroc, it has become my flavor of choice. Well, evidently everyone else loves it too. I recently came up with an idea to make a special peachy drink using this flavored vodka and took a trip to my local AnnieBelle'sCafe Store (ABC Store) to get what I needed. To my dismay, the clerk tells me that "Peach Ciroc has been sold out in the entire state and will not be back on the shelves of a couple of weeks!" Now, what that lets me know is that VA has some Peach Ciroc drinking folk! So, if you had your hopes up about snatching up a couple of bottles for the weekend and you are not a club owner or restaurateur that has connections....then you are SHORT! I hated to burst your peach, but I didn't want to be the only sad one!

You've Just Been MixXed...Not Stirred!

B.E.S.T.: "Let Love ROAR" Valentine's Day Soiree

B.E.S.T.: "Let Love ROAR" Valentine's Day Soiree: In honor of Black History Month B.E.S.T. will be hosting a Valentine's Day Soiree to kick off our R.O.A.R. Program. R.O.A.R. teaches y...

Withdrawals......

As I was watching T.V. this afternoon, a major network posed the question, “What happens after the Super Bowl?”…WHAT? Why would they even ask such a foolish question? Although I’m not a Giants fan, I am extremely happy that they beat those New England Patsies, however I REALLY hated to see this season come to an end. The question that truly needs to be answered is, What in the hell will we do on Sundays? I’m just saying…I love golf and all, but I’m not about to sit around on Sunday and watch it all day long. I imagine that fans will start to pack on the pounds that may have been lost during the season from all of the jumping around and adrenaline rushes that kept our metabolism peaking making for such a sad situation. Oh well, back to the original question regarding life after the Super Bowl. My thought is that football fans from around the world are going to be suffering from NFL WITHDRAWAL. So, those of you out there that have friends and family members that are football lovers, please call and check on them come Sunday and Monday and make sure that they are not balled up in a corner somewhere crying their eyes out!!!!
SN: I wonder how many New Yorkers will get pink slips tomorrow for skipping work today…LOL!

You’ve Just Been MixXed…..Not Fumbled!

Sassy Shoe Biz: Facebook Goes Wall Street

Sassy Shoe Biz: Facebook Goes Wall Street: Facebook Goes Wall Street For those that are not familiar Facebook has decided to offer initial public offerings (IPO) which is is...

Who are you on the See Saw with?

Some of my best childhood memories are based on playing at the park with the other children in my neighborhood. Friendships were so easy to build, unless you were a bully or a shy child, who usually kept their distance. Nonetheless, we would run and play until our little hearts were content, zipping down the sliding board, hanging from the monkey bars and swinging as high as we could on the swing set. Now, we can’t forget about the “beloved” see saw or as some may call it "teeter-totter". Regardless, of what it was called at your playground, it was one of those contraptions that you just could not get on by yourself; you had to have the right “riding” partner in order for it to work. Now, you couldn’t just choose any friend to get on, it had to be someone that you balance the see saw. Otherwise, you’d be cheating yourself of the experience as well as risking being plummeted to the ground if your partner decided that they no longer wanted to ride. I say all that, to say this…not every relationship or friendship is meant to be a beautiful “see saw” situation.  I’m not looking at the up and down motion in regards to drama, but more of a keeping each other lifted up during our down times. Unfortunately, not everyone is equipped to balance you out, meaning that there are going to be times when you are going to be dropped to the ground, but the good thing is that you can always get up and get back on, however you have to be sure that the person on the other end is capable of helping you balance your inner see saw. If not, pass on the ride and spare yourself the pain.

You've just been MixXed....not Stirred!

Is this really a "good-bye"? Or, a "see ya later"?

You know ending relationships is never an easy feat. But, I think that we have reached the end of our road. You came to into my life a few months back and swept me off my feet with very little effort. I guess I knew from the moment I met you, that you were going to be a special part of my life. However, I never anticipated being so in love with you. Spending time with you a few times a week, putting my all into you, making sure that it was known that you had my full support and attention. Every date we had would make my heart flutter with anticipation as well as give me a rush that was almost orgasmic! The way you would enter my room and make me scream with passion for more than an hour at a time…I’m so going to miss that. Oh, how I put my all into this relationship and now you want it to come to an end. I shouldn’t even be surprised because relationships this good this fast don’t usually last but for a season. So, as I sit here putting my inner-most feelings out to the world, I can only imagine how the next week will be for us…I know you so well. You will come into my home for one last exhilarating romp. It will be full on contact, somewhat of a battle to the bitter end. Sweat will be pouring from our faces and our emotions will be fully engulfed in the moment, it will be amazing. And, when the night ends…you will walk out of my life and become a memory. My sweet, sweet NFL Season...I wish that you didn’t have to go, but I totally understand that you have endured a lot of pain over the past few months and you need to heal. Please, never forget. I will ALWAYS be here for you through the good and bad times. I’ll never allow my faith and love for you to waiver. Damn…I’m going to miss you so much, my dearest NFL Season, but I know that you will be back before I know it!

You've Just been MixXed...and "heartbroken"!

Life In a Snowglobe!

Ahhh...Snow globes! What beautiful pieces of art they are? For decades, snow globes have been an intricate staple in most gift or specialty shops around the world waiting for a collector or admirer to purchase. Most sitting upon a shelf or mantel with a metal or wooden foundation with meticulously sculpted homes, characters or floral arrangements inside of a pool of liquid, that every now and then yields beautiful white or glittery flakes when shaken. Oh, how peaceful and serene it must be inside a snow globe...or not! Snow globes only seem to be eye-catching and calm when they are left untouched, because this is when you can really see the amazing details of the crafter's work. However, there is always an irresistible urge to shake it up in order to see the flakes whisk around the globe. When I look at snow globes, I can't help but relate it to "real" life situations. I'm compelled to think that life in a snow globe is not much different than life outside of one. Here's my point...most times we resolve to live our lives in peace, harmony and in the pursuit of happiness and success, which I believe is a commonality amongst all people. The only differences may be our foundations. Nonetheless, we are all beautifully sculpted pieces of art with a specific life purpose. However, every now and then when we are going through life's journey's someone or something comes along and "shakes" us up inside of our globe/being, whether it be related to past relationships or financial hardships, the white flakes are whipping all around to a point where we cannot see our way. But, the awesome piece to this puzzle is that eventually all the "mess" floating around starts to subside, you can now start to see and think with clarity, peace is restored. So, be mindful the next time that you see a snow globe that no matter how hard you shake it, the result will always be the same...PEACE!

You've just been MixXed....not "Shaken"!

Dear Bobbleheads, You Creep Me Out!

Ok, this is a blast from the past (kind of) in regards to the bobble head craze that people just love! Me...Not so much! The way those little dolls stair off into space, smile and "bobble" around agreeing with every word or move you make, is just pure creepy.  I mean, there are bobble heads for all types of individuals and public figures that folks see as keepsakes and collector's items. Not me, I wouldn't even want a customized bobble head of myself...eeesh! Now, although I have such disdain for these creepy little dolls, there is something that is very significant and relatable about the way they operate. If people took on a "bobble head" mentality and smiled all the time, looked bright-eyed into the world's face, and politely shook their heads "yes" or "no", the way people get along and respect each other just may make a difference. So, bobble head, even though your creepy little eyes are always staring at me and your pearly whites are always gleaming at me... You somehow teach me a very valuable lesson. Be quiet, smile, and always be in agreement....LOL!

You've just been "oddly" MixXed..Not Stirred!

STAGE was ALL the RAVE!

Wow! What an eventful weekend for the RVA area. In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., there were tons of events taking place around the city for Richmonders to take part in. Events ranged from community events such as, Occupy the Dream to social events for the RVA partygoer, like the 4th Annual MLK Day Party held at downtown Richmond's Hippodrome Theater.  Although there was plenty for all to do throughout the city, one particular event created a "BUZZ" like no other, and that was the 7th Annual Black Gala "A Black Tie Edition" presented by STAGE! From what I understand from our sources, this event was classy, elite, and upscale. Held at Richmond International Raceway's Torque Club this venue offered the perfect back drop to a crowd of Richmond's elite partygoers, with music provided by local RVA band Chkn Grease as well as local DJ that kept the crowd moving and grooving! However, supposedly there was one downfall, which was the bar service. Mixx sources indicated that the bartenders were not at all equipped to handle crowd, resulting in long lines and waits, but if this is the only complaint, I would dare to say that this was definitely the place to be in RVA!

If you would like to see your event "Thrown in the MixX"....step your game up!

You've just been MixXed...not stirred!

Letters of Affirmation.....

Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to meet some wonderful people and experience some beautiful as well as painful experiences that have molded me into a more compassionate, spiritual, patient and loving individual. And, with this growth I have developed a heart and mind to help those who I love see the beauty and strength within themselves and give them words of encouragement to lighten their heavy hearts. Just in taking the time to listen to a friend in need and do so without judgment and unconditionally creates a bond of trust that cannot be broken. Just recently, I have found another way to show unconditional love and support to those in my life, which has been through letters of affirmation. To some they are just words on a piece of paper, but to those experiencing a "valley moment" it's a touching way of knowing that someone cares about you and your situation. It doesn't take long to write a letter of affirmation, all I use is a piece of torn paper, a sharpie and my unconditional heart. With those things, I begin to write what I feel about that person as God lays it on my heart as a token of encouragement and love. So, what I would like to challenge my readers to do is send someone you may know, who’s experiencing a tough time, a letter of affirmation, it won't require a lot of fanfare or time, only your heart on paper in its purest form and I promise you, the recipient will never forget that they have a person that genuinely cares for them and their well-being. At the end of the day, it may be the only form of “visual” love that he or she may receive at that point in time.

You've just been cared for ..in the MixX!

Leave My Beyonce' Alone.....

Why do we always have to hate on other people's good news? Especially celebrities like Beyonce' and Jay-Z! Now, come on skeptics, ya'll know good and well that Beyonce' did not fake her pregnancy and had nothing to gain by doing so, but had a hell of a lot to lose by pulling such a shenanigan. This woman and her husband have entertained the masses for over a decade with style and class, which has allowed them to be the power couple that they are so, let's just be happy for them, wish their family well and leave my Beyonce' ALONE!

Be Better...Not Bitter

What's the point of allowing past experiences to dictate your happiness. Approach confrontational situations with integrity and make the choice to take your life back! More often than not, we find ourselves in compromising situations that cause us to have to make a choice whether to be the victor or the victim. Either way, how you handle the situation is what makes the difference. How many times have we seen divorced couples still holding grudges against each other that are ages old and usually with children caught in the middle? Or friends, who have had  disagreements that go unresolved for years and results in a perfectly good friendship ending in turmoil? Regardless of what the circumstances are you have to learn to grow beyond the heartache and hardship in an effort to determine whether you are going to be BETTER or BITTER. Being "bitter" keeps you ruminating over past experiences and allowing them to control you, whereas if you make a conscious decision to be "better" you can forgive those who have wronged you and move on with your life. So, choose your choice...be better...not bitter!

You've just been "Thrown in the MixX"!

2012 is here..Now What?

Ok folks, so we partied 2012 into existence, kissed people we knew and/or didn't know and made resolutions that we may or may not keep...so, now what? How do you plan to make 2012 different from 2011? I ask this question because often times we look forward to making the next year better than the previous one without any "real" change. Last night Twitter was blowing up with tweets regarding 2012 being the "Best Year Ever", chats of better financial situations, business growth, and personal growth. Ok...you've talked it up, just exactly how will this be the "Best Year Ever"? Because I'm almost positive that we said that 2011 was going to be a great year as well as the year before, only to look back over the year and be in the exact same place where you were. We have to do better because at the end of the day, we can't continue to speak idle words with no action and further delay our purpose. Do you what you need to do, to make happen what needs to happen! Weight Watchers launched their 2012 theme, which is to "Believe" and that's what we all need to do, believe in yourselves, your visions, and your faith and maybe going to into 2013 we will be on an awesome track of progression. And, for those of you who have always met your challenges head on and stayed the course, I applaud you and wish you well in 2012 the "Best Year Ever"!

Now...it's still New Year's go party and watch the Giants beat the brakes off those Cowgirls!

You've just been MixXed..Not Stirred!