BF decides to "Fight the Fire"

The shirt couldn't have been more fitting for the topic of today's blog! lol. Well, you've read it right: Boyfriend has decided he's going to serve his country in another way! He's gonna be fighting fires aka firefighting. We're going to relocate to Jacksonville, Florida. I'm really anxious for us to start a new life together in an area that's new for the both of us. It's almost like having a blank canvas and creating your art aka life. I've moved away before, but it's going to be quite different this time around. My baby sisters will not be accompanying me on this move. They've decided that they would rather stay in our hometown and live life working and going to school. It's a bittersweet feeling, because I've raised them for 10 years, and it's like seeing your child move away from home. I'm getting teary eyed as I type! But it's tears of joy over sadness, because I see that I've done a really good job with the girls, and they've pretty much got their goals lined up and working towards them to turn them into a reality for the both of them. I guess now, I have time to focus on my relationship with no one else added! Hold up, I forgot-Boots! How could I forget his handsome self!

At least until my sister gets back from her overseas tour-for good!

I'm always filled with so many mixed emotions about various things-why is that? I can't just have one feeling about something, it's always a combination of feelings, whether it's good or bad. Well, on that note-I guess I'll keep moving on to my next topic of discussion! here goes...For those who follow me on other sites, know that I've finally gotten my business and website launched-thanks for all the blessings and praises. It truly means a lot to me! I have negotiations in works for my first BIG client-when I say big, I mean big! She's phenomenal...and that's all I'll say for now! Other than that, we're continuing to get the clients on my roster prepared, ensuring that all the "ducks are in a row". I have a really good feeling about all of them, because I believe in them, oh yea, I also believe in CUSP and it's ability to do the work! I am also in the process of planning my first event with 2 partners. It'll be a fairly unique one, and the anticipation of this event is driving me bonkers! All is good to go, just waiting for venue approval. Just how neat would it be to...aaahhh, you thought I was going to spill the beans, huh? I'm sorry my dears, you'll have to wait until August=September to find out...heck, you may even find out sometime next month! Continued praises goes out to Him and to my supporters. Most of all, my partners with this event and with CUSP, my sister! Once again, thank you all for the spport!
*ciao.bella*

The infatuation with "I DO"

Disclaimer: before going any further, there's nothing wrong with being "engaged" if you're truly in the relationship and accepting the engagement to further your "commitment" to your relationship-but there's truly something wrong with someone who accepts a proposal for the sake of being "engaged", whether you're giving the ring or receiving the ring!

One thing that i've constantly tried to understand, and I continue to try and understand, is how many times can a person can be engaged before being looked at with the *side eye*. Just like with marriage, any typical person would proclaim to only have "one marriage", and throughout out that journey, you'd stick it out and make it work, etc. Now, is this not the case with being engaged? How come it's okay to be engaged and then un-engaged (if that would be the appropriate wording!) fifty-eleven times? And yes, I did say fifty-eleven times! lol. I can't even fathom the thought of accepting or even honoring a request from a man, if i'm not completely 100% about him and I being as one for the long haul. I guess it's easier said for me, seeing that I've never accepted a proposal-although it did happen years and years ago. In my mind, the thought of it was beautiful, but in my heart, the person I "thought" was "the one" for me, wasn't. In the end, after being asked for my hand in marriage, i declined. My mind, body and soul has to be with the man that asks for my hand, and the same should apply with him when asking for my hand.

I see alot of my peers that have either been married and/or engaged more times than enough, and it just doesn't look good! I mean, is there some type of fascination with hearing "will you marry me?" I just don't understand it! It's almost as if it's a joke these days. Is it the ultimatums that are being laid down-either propose to me or we're over? Is it means for justifications of trying to slow down a man/woman that's "hot to trot"? Is it because kids are in the picture (although you never saw yourself marrying the baby mama/baby daddy). Could this be the reason why the divorce rates are sky-high? What happened to sticking to the vows of, "thru better or for worse...thru thickness and thin"? I guess that doesn't apply, huh? Not only have I seen and heard about engagements being called off as quickly as you can lay down to sleep and wake up for the day, I've seen people more willing to rush to the courthouse for a divorce, without as much as a single/second thought! (now, this doesn't apply to all situations, as there's always an exception to the rule, as with anything else!).

Everytime I hear and/or see a couple that has been married for years and years, it makes me smile and think about how "they" were able to make it work, and what my peers can do to make it work for "them". Maybe they should have some marital classes for people before they finalize the divorces! lol...

What happened to being sacred? Although, nowadays, life isn't as "traditional", according to views of different people, one thing should be for certain: accepting a sacred vow, before God-whether its with a proposal or the act of being united as one in a marriage?

Can someone help me? Care to drop your two cents? lol...
*ciao.bella*

And let the Creative.Unique.Social.Power (CUSP) begin!

Typically, when speaking with someone, you're often hearing of the "Monday Blues". Instead, I must admit that mine was the very opposite! I've enjoyed the day off for the first time in a very long time (no thanks to my previous job!). I spent it concluding round one of a BFF night in. Woke up, attended to some business, got on iChat with none other than my twin sister and decided to follow up on my website progress. Voila! CUSP has officially been launched! Whoo hoo! You just dont understand how ecstatic I am right now. It's like a kid waking up on Christmas morning and seeing all the presents under the tree.

Overall, i'm having a mixture of emotions-and I may have mentioned it in a previous blog-oh well, take it in again...I'm excited, because after all of the research, training/learning and meetings-I've finally gotten the concept of what I really want to do. That is the reason why I've decided to push forward and follow my heart with my new venture-Marketing and Public Relations...Nervous, because of how hard we've worked on getting this jumping off the ground, not sure of how people will receive this business opportunity. Based off my previous blogging, i've mentioned how people have wanted to get things for FREE instead of paying for services. Being that this opportunity has everyone's best interest at heart, I don't think people are taking this seriously! lol. Sad to say, but it's true. I hope to provide the best service possible to new and existing clients, and continue to build wonderful networking and friendship circles, which seems evident, that it's going well in that direction.

As I continue to promote CUSP in order to create an identity/brand and market others, I ask God for his continued guidance, because without Him, it wouldn't be possible. For Him to allow me to keep doing what i'm doing and that others appreciate what I am doing. But most of all, I want to not only be happy about what God has made possible for me, but also for it to be successful-and having whatever success brings, come to me! Well, for anyone that may cross this blog at any time, I look forward to representing you as a client, and spread the word: www.cuspmpr.com is truly going to be the buzz around here.
*ciao.bella*

Walking in the NUDE

I'm starting to notice something. As always, being told that the color shoes to wear to ensure it elongates the legs: NUDE. To have a classic, timeless look: NUDE and what do I see as a Trend alert? You betcha-NUDE! Personally, there's something sexy and soothing about the color. I've got pumps, sandals, clothing, undergarments-you name it, I got it! All year round, I think this color can never do wrong! For your viewing pleasure!
*ciao.bella*

Knock it off with all the Knock-Off!

So, here's a topic i've constantly had debates over not only at school, while doing presentations, etc., but with folks on random days as well...Thanks to a fellow blogger, I've decided to take this posting from my other site and put it here as well!
Initially, this topic of discussion was brought up while being on the phone with my girlfriend one afternoon (while I was supposed to finish my friggin' projects for finals!), and it was about people investing into KNOCKOFFS...it's just amazing to see at the end of the day, how many people succumb to this bull crap, and walk around actin' like their shit is EXCLUSIVE, and their shit don't stink! Guess what-it does! All because you're supporting that bullcrap that goes on over in those countries that are slavin' the kids away for close to little or nothing at all!!! Honestly, from anyone that would answer this question for me-what is up with folks and spending their money on knockoffs? I can remember when back during my high school days, we would save our hard earned lil' paychecks up just to get that Dooney and Bourke or Coach purse, or even some designer clothing that would just happen to make it to the racks of TJ Maxx (and don't front-you know you were just one of these people, waiting to see what was gonna be sent to TJ Maxx, so you can purchase that BIG TICKET ITEM, lol). I mean, its like an epidemic out here and it's ridiculous! Its a shame, seeing people go and spend money like clockwork on items that aren't even of good quality, let alone front like it's the real deal! Come on now, as the infamous song that has been in constant rotation in the clubs would state, "What you doin'? STUNTIN'! Thats what everyone out here is doing...You'd think with the amount of money that you'd spend on this GARBAGE, you'd save it up and buy you one good quality item! But no, the instant gratification takes over you and you'd run out and buy the fakes!!! I'd rather proudly rock my purses and outfits from Tar-get, Old Navy, and other stores that keeps me well within my budget, than to purchase a knockoff, on any given day! There's no justification in doing so, because at the end of the day, if you can't afford it, then that means you don't even need to rock the LOOK-ALIKES! I've always vowed to never buy a knockoff, let alone, sport one for the sake of lookin' like i'm on top of the GAME, whatever that may be...I mean, if I have the means, then by ALL means, it will be bought! But for you sucka's that live and die for this shit-GO TO HELL! lol...I'm not being judgmental, but at the same time, i may just be playing into this field....nothing's more nerve-wrecking than to see that one person actin' like they got all their ducks in a row AND act as if they can afford to buy the real thing, but in light-all that crap is FAKE, and you still strugglin' to take care of your real priorities because you're spending ALL your money on the knockoffs! Some disloyal Mofo's out here if you ask me!!!
til next time...
*ciao.bella*

Rise and Shine...Faves! Faves! Faves!

So, i'm being very lazy, not wanting to make any coffee, but i'm feenin' for a cup! Maybe, i'll brew a pot after posting this! My faves are in order for the day...I think I need to clean my folder out of all my pics that i've held on to for so long...Well, not many words to say today, other than i'm very excited-my BFF is in town this week, and I can't wait to hang out with her! whoo-hoo!
*ciao.bella*

My additional faves...

As I take a break from researching and getting my questions together for my website, which is almost finalized, I look through my pictures that i've collected and decide which ones I want to post as faves, seeing that I can't post all at once-or at least, I don't feel like it! I've selected a few for your viewing pleasure! Here goes it!
*ciao bella*

Natalie Portman in a cut-out Balenciaga dress

Military-style cardigan sweater-can you say, SWEEEEETT?

Megan Fox on cover of Elle US June 2009-check the dresses!

Lingerie-although i'm no fan of wearing them (hey, they all come off anyways, right?), I'm loving the cut-out lingerie in a kinky kind of way! smh *blushing*

Last, but not least-my favorite couple at Cannes. Check out the dress on Ms. Jolie! Not to mention, Mr. Pitt is lookin' quite debonair and grown man-ish!

Maxi-mize your summer wear!

I was talking to my sister on iChat earlier today, and we were talking about clothing and such, and she made mention of maxi dresses. My light bulb went off after I got done talking with her and thought, "there was somewhere I read, maxi dresses were no longer in"...says who? I'm not quite sure, but I wish I had remembered, so that I could let them see that was totally a lie! lol...anyhow, I started going and searching for all the pretty ones, from Old Navy and Forever21 to BCBG and bebe! So, no matter what, you've got all kinds of dresses to fit your budget! Enjoy!
*ciao.bella*

My Faves for the week

As the rain continues to bang up against my window, I've decided i'm going to finally post pics that i found browsing the internet the past few weeks or so. Enjoy!
*ciao.bella*

My favorite! VB rockin' it like no other...that Balmain military style jacket is the best!

JLo doing the thing in this dress-who doubted that she'd bounce back after having not one, but two lil ones?

This outfit was perfect for traveling! Rihanna never disappoints me!

Kerry Washington-this dress reminds me of a sketch I did for portfolio, only, it was a halter dress version-kudos!

two words: Street Chic! i'll be going to find my jeans to destroy in a bit!

sneakers are not my forte, but these jordans are HOT!

I get a fuzzy feeling seeing these C. Louboutin sneaks...not sure if i'd rock 'em though! (never know!)

Ashley Olsen at the Metropolitan Costume gala. the Olsen twins are true definition of fashion! I said it...

Eye Candy-J. Legend...makes me look at him in a different way! SMH

JLo again...rockin' the East Coast stance! get it gurl!

Bottoms up! and out?! How do you feel?

As I enjoy my first day of no longer being employed with Avon, I wake up and begin to think of all the things I need to catch up on, including what to blog about! Well, I was checking out one of my favorite sites New York Magazine, and they were talking about American Apparel and how they have some backless tights...Yes! backless tights, meaning your butt cheeks are going to be over exposed! Come on now, butt cheeks exposed?! I'm not sure if I like that look...what's the reason for it? Who invented these damn things. Imagine wearing them with a skirt or dress, and having the breeze blow it away, and everything is covered but your bee-hind! Hmm...well, on the other hand, it could be worse-wearing nothing at all under there...i'm mixed on this one! check it out and tell me your thoughts...

Could they have been-twins?

Well, after a few days, i must admit, i'm curious-and as they say, curious minds wanna know! So, i've been holding off on checking out this video, "Ego" by Beyonce. When I say everyone was chatting about this via twitter (amongst my diva friends who L-O-V-E Bey!), EVERYONE was chatting about this video! I couldn't understand what the hype was about, and even after watching it, I still don't understand what the hype is about. The dancing as always, have been good with her, but what was the hype about? I mean a couple of chest popping and hand movements, and even a walking stick routine-come on, it wasn't GREAT! Now, i'm sure one who's reading this, may say-she's hatin'! But i'm not! I've been very understanding and accepting of this chic, and I must say, she has talent, but geesh, it's okay to say that she isn't the best! Anyways, so, check this out and peep what i'm talking about when I say, could they have been twins-remember when Lil Kim was the Lil Kim sans the plastic surgery and such, Think about the cover for Notorious KIM,
Now, there's some sort of resemblence between Bey and Kim. Check out the video and you'll see what i'm talking about! The hair and somewhat, the makeup is similar to a degree. Now, you can't look at the video too closely, just kinda glance at Bey and you'll see Lil Kim right in there! lol...enjoy, and oh yes-HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!
*ciao bella*

So my final decision was...*drumroll please*

me sitting in the smokepit during one of my breaks (5.20.09)

I've decided i'm going to part ways with my fellow employer! Now, one thing that's quite flipside at the moment is that no one really knows it but me. Why haven't I told my employer, I know some may think or will be thinking. I'll tell you why...I've seen firsthand how foul the workplace is when someone's putting in their "2 weeks"...You say, "2 weeks, I resign", while they say, "24 hours, you're gone!" Not fair I say, but hey-according to the Ohio laws, an employer can kaput you...no will-no explanation, no nothing! So guess what? Why humiliate myself and have them walk me out the door, when i can see myself out when i'm ready. Besides, i'm sure they're not ready to see a sistah-gurl cut up, considering I worked too damn hard while being there, to have someone embarrass the poop outta me! lol...So-i've gotten my "Dear John" letter ready, along with my badge and my headset, and i'm leaving it on the boss's desk Sunday night! lol...

In the meantime, I will continue to work at my other employer and during my spare time, continue to find new clients to represent for the summer on out. I really can't wait. I'm sure i'll be broke for quite a bit, but hey-i guess I can manage, after all-it's only temporary! That's all I wanted to share for now. I'll be back to post my faves...but one thing: don't hold your breath on that! lol
*ciao bella*
netteworker