These are My Confessions….

I confess despite watching countless movies I have not seen many movies deemed classics in African American cinema. There are times when talking to L about movies, he will look at me in disbelief when I tell him I haven't seen 'XYZ' movie. To remedy that I decided to watch 20 movies referenced in Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies& Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films. With the help of Netflix and Direct TV I am well on my way to completing this goal.

Sweet Sweet back's Badass Song
To Sir with Love
Cry Freedom
Sparkle
Lady Sings the Blues
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
A Hero Ain't Nothin' but a Sandwich
Under the Cherry Moon
The Great White Hope
Claudine

I must say I am upset with myself for missing out on such great films for so long. Some I didn't care for but most I have really enjoyed. I'm half way to my goal of 20 films and will update once I have completed.

Tennessee Aquarium

This weekend, L and I travelled to Chattanooga, TN for a quick getaway. It was just what the doctor ordered. We both needed sometime way to relax and regroup from our day to day lives and all the lovely stressors it brings. This trip gave me the opportunity to check off one of my majors items...to visit the Tennessee Aquarium . This is one of those things we talked about doing and just didn't get around to it. I am so glad we finally did.

I absolutely loved the TennesseeAquarium. It is divided into two buildings one housing a display of river aquatic life and the other housing oceanic life. I must admit the Shedd Aquarium still holds a special place in my heart but this one comes a close second. Maybe since both of them are housed on or near a body of water that makes the feeling a little bit more natural than a land locked aquarium. We also had the opportunity to view Wild Ocean 3D at the aquarium's affiliated I-MAX theatre. The film added to the entire experience and I highly recommend you see it if the opportunity presents itself.

The entire weekend was not spent at the aquarium. We spent a good deal of time just lounging around and relaxing at our hotel, The Chattanoogan. I highly recommend this space if you are considering visiting. We will certainly return for a quick visit. The staff was extremely accommodating and the space was beautiful.

I look forward to visiting this city again and seeing what other things it has to offer.

Take me out to the ball game…

Last week, my extended work department attended a team building in Birmingham, AL. We had the opportunity to see the Birmingham Barons play against the Mississippi Braves. Both are AA teams that feed into major league teams. Since these folks are being paid and I am not a huge sports fan this will count toward my professional sports event goal. L has expressed interest in going to a NFL football game so I will post if we make it to one.

Another Year Older

On Friday April 16^th I was blessed to celebrate my 36^th birthday. It has been an awesome weekend spent with my family and friends.

My sweet co-workers treated me to lunch at one of our favorite dining spots Doc Chey's. It was on the first restaurants we tried when I started the 101 journey. I am so glad still get a chance to frequent some of the spots. Ironically, Doc Chey's new location is housed where Stella's was. Sadly, Stella's closed a few months back but I am glad I had a chance to dine there.

Later that evening, my sister, nieces and a few of their friends arrived in town to celebrate my niece K's 16^th birthday. It was double celebration as we learned that niece M received a full tuition scholarship courtesy of her father's employer. We decided that the Marietta Diner would be the perfect spot since they have an extensive menu selection. Everyone was pleased and full by the time we left.

Saturday started with us mapping out a plan of assault to find the perfect prom dress for niece M. After learning that the dress she wanted was not in stock we convinced her to try on some dresses just to get a feel for it. The first dress she tried on was perfect and she instantly fell in love with it. After trying on several more that didn't appeal to her I asked she try on one more. We all loved the last one more than the first and I am so glad she chose that one. She will look amazing! Later Saturday afternoon, my sisters and nieces attended a step competition. L and I decided to go Wet Willie's for some daiquiris. We had a great time just people watching and soon realized we were some of the oldest people in the room. He quickly pointed out that now I am older than him. Well at least until June when he turns 36 as well.

Today we attended the Dogwood Festival in Piedmont Park. The weather was perfect and it was an absolute beautiful day. I really enjoyed checking out the different pieces of jewelry, sculpture and paintings. There truly are some talented people.

I am now officially T-I-R-E-D but happy. It has been an amazing weekend of food, drinks, shopping and laughter. I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate my birthday but with the people I love and who love me.

Smooches!

You told Harpo to beat me?!?!

"The Color Purple" is one of my all time favorite movies. On last night, my sister and I had the wonderful opportunity to see the musical production here in Atlanta.

Fantasia reprised her role as 'Miss Celie' and did not disappoint. I loved her on American Idol. However, I did not care too much for her solo efforts as they would result in screaming. During the production, I really enjoyed her pure singing ability. She had to throw in a few screams here and there but it worked for the musical number she was performing.

Of course, "The Color Purple" would not be the "The Color Purple" without 'Sophia'. I loved when the die hard fans of the movie began to recite lines in unison with 'Sophia'. The entire cast did an excellent job and I hope to see it again.

I highly recommend you check out if it comes to your area.

Getting Excited!!!

Earlier this summer I purchased tickets for the traveling production of The Color Purple. I love love love the movie and have seen it countless times. "You told Harpo to beat me....." classic!

I hadn't given the play much thought this summer but I recently saw a commercial advertising its Atlanta run. I can't wait to get the opportunity to see it and will be certain to post after the production. Stay tuned.

America I Am: The African American Imprint

Recently, L and I had an opportunity to visit the America I Am: The African American Imprint
exhibit here in Atlanta. The exhibition covers the range of the African American experience from the slave trade to modern day. I must say, I love museums and any venue that gives me the opportunity to learn or discover new things. This trip fit the bill perfectly.

There were so many unique pieces including doors from the castle where Africans were held captive prior to their voyage, , Frederick Douglas' clothing , Malcolm X's qur'an and diary chronically his pilgrimage to Mecca and one of my personal favorites Prince's guitar used during the 2007 Super Bowl. Of course there was so much more but these are some of the items that stuck with me.

I was so happy to see the venue was packed with visitors. I plan to return with my sister for a visit during the week. Hopefully, I will be able to spend more time absorbing the entire experience. Definitely check out the exhibit if you get an opportunity. You won't regret it.

I'm a Fan Now!

Last week, some girlfriends and I went to see jazz violinist, Ken Ford perform at Wednesday Wind Down held in Centennial Park. Several of my friends are fans and after seeing him perform I can truly understand why.

I really love music especially when there is pure instrumentation. I was expecting him to do some standard jazz tunes but he surprised me by doing a cover of Jamie Foxx's "Blame It On the Alcohol'. Ok, I don't like that song...it reminds me of T-Pain, however, after hearing it played by violin I can hear the music and not the vocals and can now appreciate it. Also included in his set was one of my favorite songs, "Summer Madness" by Kool & the Gang. The entire show was great and look forward to seeing him perform again.

If you get the opportunity to see him perform, please do so. You won't be disappointed.

Zoo Atlanta

Today, L and I visited Zoo Atlanta. Despite living in Altanta for four years now, this was my first visit to the city's zoo. Overall, it was a nice visit. I got to see some cute animals, learn some things and hang out with my husband. Below are some pictures from our visit .

What about your friends?

The show has been off of the air for several years now but everday I need my daily fix of Friends. Thank God for syndication. I absolutely love this show and count it as one of my all time favorites. I've heard all the reasons why people don't like show or think that since I'm black I shouldn't like it. Oh well..they'll get over it.

Anywho, despite my love love love of this show, I have challenged myself not to watch it for an entire month. During the month of May 2009 I am not allowed to watch any episodes of Friends where on tv, dvd or on line. I could have gone the easy route and not watched it during February, then only 28 days of deprivation.

I am now watching my last episode for the next 31 days. I am going to miss Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler and Ross. Maybe I'll use this time to connect with my actual friends.

Ray Ray!!!!

On Saturday March 28th, L and I went to see Raphael Saadiq at the Variety Playhouse. We arrived at the venue shortly before the show was scheduled to begin and the traffic was horrible. The street was packed with people who frequent the Little Five Points area as well as the concert goers. To top it off the parking at the venue sucked. We ended up driving around for about 15 minutes before we were able to find a street parking space.

After we made into the venue it was straight to the concession stand for an adult beverage. Now, the tickets said it was general seating. When we got in the concert area all the seats were taken and there was standing room only along the sides. L and I settled in for space and noticed a woman sitting on the floor immediately in front of us. This lady had the biggest Afro I've seen up close and personal. Throughout the show it was a bit of a distraction. We made the best of it by cracking jokes about the shape of it. We were bad.

The show began with an opening group whose name eludes me. Maybe it's just me but I feel if no one has heard of your group before maybe you shouldn't spend so much time hopping around the stage. It would have helped if I understood what they were saying. The music was alright but I could have done with out them. Just get to the main attraction.

When Ray Ray came out the crowd went wild. A majority of the set was dedicated to his new material but he included a medley of his hits with Tony! Toni! Tone! and Lucy Pearl. I like some of the songs from the new cd but I am fan of his older work. He gives a great show. Besides Raphael the stand out for me was the girl singing background vocals with him. That chick can sing!

This summer Tony! Toni! Tone! will join En Vogue and Silk for concert at Chastain Park. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to check out the show.