In a half-sleep mode, I was getting ready for the gym the other day and happened to catch a few minutes of the old (late 70s to early 80s) sitcom Mork and Mindy. I realize that I miss sitcoms - the innocense of them...with the bad one-liners and the seemingly easiness of complex relationships. Like, he was a martian? Really? Priceless. Before 'reality' tv and the self-depricating themes of more recent sitcoms (like, Friends), shows like Mork and Mindy had a HUGE imagination shown in the trappings of everyday life. Check out this epi (shown in five parts on youtube, only two have been posted) how it mentions very quickly some of the major issues that plague us today - and the source for many commercials on CNN - energy conservation and prescription pills. Ha!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
The Elephant in the Room
Let's talk about it.
I absolutely love costume jewellery. I always seem to need just ONE more wooden bangle, silver stud set or statement necklace. I can never seem to quench my over zealous thirst for more and more accessories. I really feel it was makes an outfit. This summer, I told myself I would experiment more with belts...from the big and bold to the tiny and ornate. But I stumbled upon this website pnkElephant.com and proclaimed I will stick to the evils (bangles, necklaces,earrings) that I know. Wow! Each piece funky and unique, colourful and playful. My faves include this LOVE ring and this tiny spike-multi metallic cuff. Hot.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Did She?
Ummmm...Tracy? Can we tawk?
The other night, I was flipping through channels and stopped when I noticed one of the hosts of Canadian infotainment show Etalk looking kinda...different. You know the kind of different when you're not really sure what the 'it' is? A tan? Newly shaped eyebrows? Dreadful frosted lipstick? What? I'm trying so hard not to have any judgement whatsoever on my girl Tracy if she did indeed have a lil work done. Not just because it is non of my business but because I really like Tracy. I loved watching her on the early days of Canadian urban programming as a MuchMusic vj - with her huge hoop silver earrings, army hat and bright red lips.
I remember when she was a judge on the reality show for MuchMusic's next VJ - I was in awe with her post-baby gorgeousness. She looked like she snacked on vitamins and orgasms. But now with this difference I'm wondering if this look is the 'under-the-knife' kind. Hmmmmmm...
Asha
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
How You Wear Down There!
How much angst do you have for the dreaded bikini wax? Beauty is pain, right? Well maybe not....so much. A friend of mine sent me an article on the Hard Bikini Wax bikini treatment. Apparently, it is easier on the skin than the traditional gut wrenching bikini wax. The treatment is designed with those who are prone to ingrown hairs and overall sensitive skin - promises of ease because of the absence of strip removal. The wax itself hardens and then taken off. Interesting...
I told some of my girls of my GEE Beauty experience a few months ago. It was wonderful. The Rosedale spa offers an array of bikini line treatments (think veggazled!) and facials that have adorable names like Give Me Some Air . The place is very clean and the ambience calming. The next time you and your friends want to indulge in some pampering...this is the place for you.
I told some of my girls of my GEE Beauty experience a few months ago. It was wonderful. The Rosedale spa offers an array of bikini line treatments (think veggazled!) and facials that have adorable names like Give Me Some Air . The place is very clean and the ambience calming. The next time you and your friends want to indulge in some pampering...this is the place for you.
Asha
xoxo :)
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cleanses Gone Clear!
Lately, I've been hearing a lot about different concoctions that people are doing all with the effort to cleanse out the system. For a long time I thought that cleanses were reserved for celebrities like Madonna and Gwenyth or the very body concious. More recently, I am hearing more and more people participating in different cleanses to drop pounds quickly. When Beyonce had raved about dropping pounds quickly for a movie role, I first heard of Master Cleanse. One of the blogs that I frequent Trinidad Carnival Diary , gives a detailed account of when she tried it just before the two days that require one to wear almost nothing! Who could blame her, right? Then last Friday, I recieved an email about ,Total Cleanse a delivery juice cleanse service that prides itself on being a moderate and delicious way to detoxify your bod. While I enjoy reading and hearing about the trial of these cleanses they never really appeal to me...I know that quick pounds off means quicker pounds back on. Also, I love food way too much! Just the thought of going without for 12 days makes me weak. I hit the gym HARD so that I can enjoy a plethora of palettables :)
One of my aunts, however, did put me onto a parsley drink that is meant to cleanse the liver Not that I really thought, my liver needed cleansing per se, but I am trying to get more greens into my diet so I thought, why not? It was all very simple. Boil a bunch of parsely, and keep the water from the contents of the pot in a bottle refrigerated. Then, once a day, drink a cup of it until finished. The method advises enough for about 10 days. My cleanse went on for 12 days because I forgot about it for two days. Anyhoo, the first day I found it hard to like. The following day and thereafter, I drank the parsley water with a lot of ice and that seemed to help me tolerate it better.
After the twelve days were up, I didn't feel any different whatsoever but I did feel a sense of accomplishment. Yay me! I know I didn't do a drastic cleanse, but I couldn't help but thinking, this whole ting ain all dat. But THEN!...came the compliments! In four days, 3 people asked what I had been using on my skin, how come I'm glowing and if I just came back from vacation? Yes! But I didn't do anything different, I thought. Wait. Could it really be? While cleansing my liver I (better) cleansed my face? Score! It could also be that the sun is out a lot more and my vitamin D deprived body is finally getting what it craves. I dunno. But this couldn't hurt my beauty regimen now could it? Vanity be dammed...I'm onto this parsley cleanse :)
xoxo
Asha :)
Monday, April 19, 2010
Everythings Like.... Lychee
Spring has me in the mood (more than usual) for things whimsical, light and sugary!
Yesterday me and some of my besties went for brunch, a movie and then drinks. It was a fab day of 'liming'. While at brunch one of my girls asked our server for some lychee tea. Unfortunately, the restaurant (MILESTONES - get the spinach and feta omellette when you go there - yum!) doesn't carry this tea. I, however, quickly made the mental note that I will someday try it. It just sounds heavenly. I've always loved the fruit, introduced to me by my Mum YEARS ago on our frequent jaunts to China Town. We always had the canned version in the house but I truly looked forward to us getting the fresh version too.
After our movie we decided to get a few drinks at yet another restaurant (MOXIES). There, two of my girlfriends ordered lychee martinis. I felt for something refreshing so I got my often go to drink, a mohito. Although after sampling their lychee martinis I was sorry I didn't get the same....divine!
Today I needed a break from writing press releases and hearing my office mate send her "honey" kisses via the phone, so I mosied on over to Sephora for a little beauty fun. And what did I discover? One of my favourite brands, FRESH, carries a Lychee Eau de Parfum!! One quick spritz in the air and I declared, "I must have this"! I was going to get the small rollerball size for my clutch but then opted for the 1 oz. spray because I loved it that much and thought it would look sweet on my vanity.
I was telling a friend about lychee popping up everywhere and then she told me that MAC carries a Lychee Luxe lipglass . Truth be told, I am more of a lip gelee kind of gal but I do like to stick to a theme. Next time I am in there I will give my lips this sweet treat.
xoxo
Asha
Yesterday me and some of my besties went for brunch, a movie and then drinks. It was a fab day of 'liming'. While at brunch one of my girls asked our server for some lychee tea. Unfortunately, the restaurant (MILESTONES - get the spinach and feta omellette when you go there - yum!) doesn't carry this tea. I, however, quickly made the mental note that I will someday try it. It just sounds heavenly. I've always loved the fruit, introduced to me by my Mum YEARS ago on our frequent jaunts to China Town. We always had the canned version in the house but I truly looked forward to us getting the fresh version too.
After our movie we decided to get a few drinks at yet another restaurant (MOXIES). There, two of my girlfriends ordered lychee martinis. I felt for something refreshing so I got my often go to drink, a mohito. Although after sampling their lychee martinis I was sorry I didn't get the same....divine!
Today I needed a break from writing press releases and hearing my office mate send her "honey" kisses via the phone, so I mosied on over to Sephora for a little beauty fun. And what did I discover? One of my favourite brands, FRESH, carries a Lychee Eau de Parfum!! One quick spritz in the air and I declared, "I must have this"! I was going to get the small rollerball size for my clutch but then opted for the 1 oz. spray because I loved it that much and thought it would look sweet on my vanity.
I was telling a friend about lychee popping up everywhere and then she told me that MAC carries a Lychee Luxe lipglass . Truth be told, I am more of a lip gelee kind of gal but I do like to stick to a theme. Next time I am in there I will give my lips this sweet treat.
xoxo
Asha
Monday, April 12, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
Spring Has Sprung!
Although today is a little bit on the cold side (April is just one of those unpredictable months, no?) Spring has sprung! I couldn't be happier. Moods and wardrobes seem to get a lift this time of year. I love seeing all the bright colours and pretty florals in store windows this time of year. There are very few items that I will actually buy this season - though I want PLENTY but I've got some trips coming up in the summer so the fundage is tight (like the skin tight stoned-washed jeans I want!) I was thinking of sporting a skort this season. I think I saw one a in FCUK store window...I made the mental note to go back in there and try one on.
Check Rhi-Rhi wearing one. I love the fedora matched with it. The fringed shirt and leopard shoes are lil bit much for me....but I'm not a rock star. I do love the frill detail on the skort and ofcourse the water colour flower pattern. Hot. I still haven't abandoned the low-waist theme but I'm inspired at the beginning of a new season to try the high-waist trend. Just maybe...it can be done on a 5'0 frame. We'll see...
Happy Spring!
xoxo
Asha
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
If I Were A Boy...
I love being female. I love all the allowances and contradictions that come with phenomenal femmes. From all things beauty to bra burning activism - being a girl rocks! There are somethings, however, that I do envy men for.... like fashion. Of late, I've really been enjoying my boyfriend jeans and blazers but certain items, I feel, just look better on the dudes. If I were a boy, I'd love to rock these...
Vests and Peacoats...
Vests and Peacoats...
Maybe it's the longer torso that allow for a more finished look with these items.
WilliamRast jeans. I've never seen a guy wearing them not look just about perfect in them. I especially like the 'wisking' effect on the many styles of the brands jeans. Though, one can find this feature in women's jeans it is usually done at the hip area (for the distressed look) but how many can really pull off added attention to that region? I can't. Well, won't.
Sneakers are also made with men in mind. The cool factor is always higher in men's versions of any style of sneaker. I really like CLAE . And wish they would come in small sizes (boys) to fit my size 6 feet.
For style inspiration I would check out Street Etiquette blog. These fellas have fun mixing colours and patterns with preppy and urban style alike.
What do you think?
Asha :)
Food Photos
I love to eat. I really do. I love to go to a fancy restaurant as much as I love going to a small diner. It is all wonderful. If the spot has great food and great decor to match then I am an over-joyed foodie. My brother thinks it is ridiculous that I take a photo my meal and post it in albums. Just to tease him, often times I will 'tag' him in the pic so he can see the greatness I've devoured...like the above photo taken while in Ocho Rios Jamaica in October 2008 :)
Well it appears that I am not the only one who gratifies from taking a picture of what I eat. A New York Times article features some food photographers. A great read. Check out this site ejavi.com/javiDiet . It features a series of photos of what Javier Garcia (he's kinda cute, btw) eats. Strangely enough, just by viewing pictures of his meals...I like this guy. I feel like we share somewhat of a kindred spirit via protien rich breakfasts and hard boiled eggs. I dunno *shrugs*.
And as for this pic of doubles? This was taken while at an impromtu lunch with some of my besties at a small Caribbean spot in the Annex region here in Toronto. Tell me your aren't salivating! Yum.....
Asha
Monday, March 8, 2010
Happy International Women's Day!!!!!
Argh! I wish I was back in DC for this day cuz I am SURE there was some fierce'ness happening on the hill to pay tribute to this great day. No matter what city you are in though, there is reason to pay tribute to all the femme fabs. And what better time than the present? Just last night, at the Academy Awards, Kathryn Bigelow claimed Oscar victory by being the first female director to EVER win! How amazing is that?! I haven't seen the famed movie, The Hurt Locker - I never even heard of it prior to yesterday - but I am sure it deserves all the accolades.
For me the Oscars is about the fashion since I am really not into movies that much, but I respect the craft SO much. I was really happy to see my girl Monique bring home her very own 'gold man'. Precious was one of the movies I actually did see and in my humble opinion, she deserved it. She graced that stage in blue hue heaven and spoke from her HEART. I was proud. I love that she got the opportunity to show us another side of her that is beyond her super size but more about her enormous talent.
I am also seeing another side of former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam. I actually hate pagentry....I actually believe it has everything to do with what International Women's Day is all about, which I guess is open for debate. Throughout all my carnival experiences I've looked forward to seeing her on the road in all her glory...she is a knockout. I am reading her book, Letters to Ailan, and not only my perception of her is changing but also pagentry on a whole. I am just a short ways in and my gauge is different. Perhaps I'll do a review later but for now her prose is personal and powerful...
To all my girlfriends, aunties, cousins, political leaders and my Mummy....all those that I consider fantastic for so many different reasons...this is OUR day. Matriachs tuh de wurlllllll!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Fitness Fashion Find
I love getting my workout on. Before I competed in my first half-marathon two summers ago, I prided myself on NOT spending any money for workout gear. I used to show up in over OVA sized T-shirts that were probably my Dad's or my brother's first and the baggiest sweat pants I could find. I figured I was going to the gym to workout and not 'look cute'. On race day in July 2008 in Virginia I stood there and looked around at all these inspiring women who were 'workin' it'. While mentally preparing myself for the road ahead...I decided that it was time I get in on some fitness fashion.
I found the just-as-good and BEST alternative. The workout gear at AERIE, the sister line to American Eagle is fab! I went in there to look for some pyjamas recently...and low and behold...I see a fitness section at the back of the store. With great prices. And great fabric. With a simple 'tug' to the high-impact sports bra, I knew I found something divine. The running tights and shorts even come with keep-you-dry technology. Me and my BFF are taking part in a 5k in May...check out some of the items we might be outfitted in :)
Asha
Soon thereafter, I went to Lululemon. The wonderful Canadian (yay!) brand is where serious runners and fashionistas alike shop. I had been in one years before with my cuz but I didn't scope everything out as we were just panty shopping. Anyhoo, this time I tried on some yoga pants (LOVE!), a running tee (so soft) and a sports bra (your girls WILL NOT move in one of these). I bought all the items that I tried on. I nearly died at the cash register, however. These uber fabrics mean uber finances too. I'm in the gym 6 days a week - there is no way I can be Lululemon'd out that often.
I found the just-as-good and BEST alternative. The workout gear at AERIE, the sister line to American Eagle is fab! I went in there to look for some pyjamas recently...and low and behold...I see a fitness section at the back of the store. With great prices. And great fabric. With a simple 'tug' to the high-impact sports bra, I knew I found something divine. The running tights and shorts even come with keep-you-dry technology. Me and my BFF are taking part in a 5k in May...check out some of the items we might be outfitted in :)
Asha
xoxo
Thursday, February 18, 2010
i LiKe Application
There a few random things that I am happy about and I somehow wish there was an ' I like' application or a 'thumbs up' symbol that I could attach to the many musings I find adorable.
I like that Tiger is going to release a live television broadcast statement tomorrow on all the shenanigans. True the whole matter is between himself and his wife - not the public - I respect him for man'n up and saying something. His PR team has been GREAT thus far by keeping quiet until now....when the matter is fizzling out...so I expect good things (if you ever need a publicist for your team Tiger, holla atcha girl :). I am REALLY anxious to see if his wife will be at his side a la Vanessa Bryant beside Kobi. This oughta be good...
Speaking of standing by your man - or not as the case maybe. Jenny Sanford, wife of North Carolina Governor did not accompany him when he took the podium to address his relationship/affair with his lover. She has left him. And wrote a book about it. Yes, I will be reading it. I saw her on Larry King the other night and even though she sounded a lil 'scripty'...I like this chic and I think her prose could offer some insightful life lessons. I am always interested in hearing how one finds the courage to get up and move on...
I like this new show called How To Make It in America . I mentioned it to some friends during our Entourage season 6 marathon (amazing!) the earlier this week that there is another HBO series that I am willing to get into. Truth be told, I really wanted to see what it was all about when I noticed Kid Cudi on one of the prints ads. I heart him. And any other artist that strives for perfecting more than one craft *gasps*. Plus he is cute. I missed the premier on Sunday but thanks to TMN On Demand I was able to view it. Loved it! Kid Cudi's role is minimal but a downer it is not. The show surrounds a young guy post break-up and currently fed-up. Some of the acting and lines did seem a bit off ( the tv show The Game is like that at times, I find) and akward at times but it screams potential - I found the same thing when I watched one of the very first episodes of Seinfeld....one of my all time favourite tv shows. In the 30min. episode of HTMA, I felt that nostalgia of my time in nyc....the essence of cool that seeps out of that place...so much style and hustle and self-interestedness. Consider me hooked.
I like the Olympics! I've always considered myself more of a summer games type of viewer but I have really been enjoying Canada rack up some medals in these wintery sports. The physique of those speed skaters makes me want to take my fitness to a much higher level...wow! Sleek and toned they are. Out of all the ice sports my favourite has forever been the myth and magic of couples skating. So how HAPPY was I when I first laid eyes on the first black couple to compete in Olympic pairs! And then over-joyed to learn that one half of the team, Vanessa James is from Scarborough! Wha what!!! I'm so proud!
Your media darling,
Asha
xoxo
I like that Tiger is going to release a live television broadcast statement tomorrow on all the shenanigans. True the whole matter is between himself and his wife - not the public - I respect him for man'n up and saying something. His PR team has been GREAT thus far by keeping quiet until now....when the matter is fizzling out...so I expect good things (if you ever need a publicist for your team Tiger, holla atcha girl :). I am REALLY anxious to see if his wife will be at his side a la Vanessa Bryant beside Kobi. This oughta be good...
Speaking of standing by your man - or not as the case maybe. Jenny Sanford, wife of North Carolina Governor did not accompany him when he took the podium to address his relationship/affair with his lover. She has left him. And wrote a book about it. Yes, I will be reading it. I saw her on Larry King the other night and even though she sounded a lil 'scripty'...I like this chic and I think her prose could offer some insightful life lessons. I am always interested in hearing how one finds the courage to get up and move on...
I like this new show called How To Make It in America . I mentioned it to some friends during our Entourage season 6 marathon (amazing!) the earlier this week that there is another HBO series that I am willing to get into. Truth be told, I really wanted to see what it was all about when I noticed Kid Cudi on one of the prints ads. I heart him. And any other artist that strives for perfecting more than one craft *gasps*. Plus he is cute. I missed the premier on Sunday but thanks to TMN On Demand I was able to view it. Loved it! Kid Cudi's role is minimal but a downer it is not. The show surrounds a young guy post break-up and currently fed-up. Some of the acting and lines did seem a bit off ( the tv show The Game is like that at times, I find) and akward at times but it screams potential - I found the same thing when I watched one of the very first episodes of Seinfeld....one of my all time favourite tv shows. In the 30min. episode of HTMA, I felt that nostalgia of my time in nyc....the essence of cool that seeps out of that place...so much style and hustle and self-interestedness. Consider me hooked.
I like the Olympics! I've always considered myself more of a summer games type of viewer but I have really been enjoying Canada rack up some medals in these wintery sports. The physique of those speed skaters makes me want to take my fitness to a much higher level...wow! Sleek and toned they are. Out of all the ice sports my favourite has forever been the myth and magic of couples skating. So how HAPPY was I when I first laid eyes on the first black couple to compete in Olympic pairs! And then over-joyed to learn that one half of the team, Vanessa James is from Scarborough! Wha what!!! I'm so proud!
Your media darling,
Asha
xoxo
Labels:
Canada,
i like,
Jenny Sanford,
Scarborough,
Tiger Woods
Friday, February 12, 2010
It's A Roy!
Last week, I bought several items (two dresses, a top and a pair of shoes) from http://www.rachelroy.com/. I got the items shipped to my brother's house in Chicago to eliminate the huge shipping out-of-US charge. Lucky for the rest of you Torontonians, however...Rachel Roy will now be sold right here at the upscale section of The Bay, known as The Room.
I've been a fan of her designs for awhile now...but haven't been able to afford any of it until the recently launched RACHEL collection, complete with statement jewellery and very wearable shoes. I was most impressed with a batik clutch made by women in Tanzania and Rwanda through Rachel's Fairwinds Collection that focuses on: One-of-a kind works of art created using patterns and techniques unique to its community of origin. Income from the sale of these items enhances a craftwomen's family's nutrition, educates children, and brings access to healthcare and dignity. Hot. Socially concious fashion is ALWAYS in style. I don't know much about the designer except that she is STUNNINGLY beautiful and seemed to be in a mis-matched marriage to one half of The Roc, Dame Dash. None of that is really important though, fashion with a purpose is always a good look ;)
Check her out!
Asha
xoxo
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Accidently on Purpose
When I am out I love to survey a crowd and look at what people are wearing. I am often curious about what inspires a person to dress up or down. New York city is one of my favourite places and I am amazed at how style saavy people are there. The last time I was there I was at a small club with my girls having a GREAT time on the dance floor when I accidently bumped into the most stylish gentleman there! I loved his look and I just had to introduce myself and ask him about his outfit. He was such a nice guy! Meet Marlon, a Trinidadian-born, Brooklyn-based stylist. We joked back and forth for awhile...I asked him if he was in disguise with his well coiffed thick beard and sunglasses (inside!). He laughed and referred to me as Madame Mohawk. It is no secret that he is way into fashion. Check him out! I love his mix of patterns...from the bow-tie to the sweater to the blazer. Hot. And I am always a lover of accessories, like his lapel and pinky ring.
'Twas great meeting you, Marlon!
Asha
xoxo
Sunday, January 24, 2010
AVATAR
I saw the much talked about movie Avatar lastnight. I am not that much of a movie person but when my cuz asked me if I would join her to see it, I must admit I was excited to see what all the buzz was about. I couldn't remember the last time I even put on 3D glasses so I was anxious for the upclose thrills. I hardly care for special effects or high tech graphics but I knew this would be a treat. The story line is really what was so rich.
The movie is set in the future where corporations and scientists work side-by-side with the military in a lab (spaceship?) fully equipped with robots and chambers that can teleport humans to another life form. Without giving too much away, the movie's protagonist, Jake Sully, a paraplegic marine, is sent on a mission to view this other life form/race called the Na'Vi.
Although the movie set waaaay into the future the movie is so much about the past. I could not help but think about the environmental and social implications of a 'take-over'. The movie is a direct example of what my own ancestors in the Caribbean would have fallen victim to decades ago. More interestingly the futuristic movie is very much present-like since it has a direct correlation to the devastation that is Haiti right now - a sacred homeland now not just destroyed due to a natural disaster but also from years and years of an ostracization from the free world. France and America...there are no words. Hmph. I digress...
Moreover, I think the movie was very much about tolerance. Jakesully (yes, one word) came to realize that what is different can be beautiful and that one's home can shift or change...loyalties can multiply and strengthen.
The Na'Vi people in the movie inspire me to be my best in terms of teaching and learning....done patiently and purposefully...life long journeys. And their bodies were magnificent!...long and lean...I may have just found new inspiration for my 5am sweat sessions. With all the physical gorgeousness in that movie, it is no wonder there was room for a love scene amongst the violence and 'bad mind'. The Na'Vi also help inspire a higher level of spirituality. I don't think it is a coincidence that I see this movie while I am reading Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol where the power of positive energy is explored.
The movie also got me thinking about one of my passions - Carnival! I told my cuz (who just happens to be an amazing costume designer) that this year our make-up will have to be scale-like just like the Na'Vi people! Gorgeous hues of blues, greens and purples...hot! Can't wait.
This movie is a must-see for those who appreciate dynamic characters and special effects alike. Director is James Cameron is just brilliant for not only thinking/creating so vividly but actually conveying it over the big screen is just awesome. I would love to spend just 10minutes inside his head.
Go and see it!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
HairSpiration!
Although I am loving my mohawk, thanks to my AMAZING hairstylist Adrian, I can't help think what to do next. I love experimenting - I've had looooong locs....short-almost-not-there shaved head...big 'fro..u name it. Anything goes. I've often been asked if I am afraid of how a new 'do will turn out. The answer is always no. I've never feared not getting a job because of my hair - I'd like to think that my credentials speak for themself - if not then that place is just not for me. I am a true Gemini and thrive on change and new adventures. Only now am I experimenting with colour. The only thing I'm adverse to doing is relaxing/texturizing/perming. Chems are a no-no for me. I'm not big on weaves either. No judgement for those who have them, I just don't think they are for me. Anyhoo, how happy was I when I found this website chock full of natural hair 'dos of stylish sistahs. It is called Le Coil. Love the name! Oh! And even more esctatic when I found saw my girl Mariamma (pic on the left)whose hair I've envied for awhile now. She is also super talented photographer. Be sure to check out her website http://www.mariamma.com/. Special shout out to my cyber-friend Nyree who liked my hairstyle and even did a post about it on her blog, The Sweet7.
Drool over these pics and others. Maybe you'll find some inspiration of your own...
Your media darling,
Asha
xoxo
Monday, January 18, 2010
Show Dem Monique!
Many many many congrats go out to Monique for winning both aCritics Choice Award and a Golden Globe for her outstanding role in Precious. I am SO happy that I found the courage to go and see the. Monique's acceptance speech at the Golden Globes was superb...the delivery was eloquent and heartfelt. I cried. She graced that stage in flawless make-up poised in a gold grecian goddess gown. Hot.
Go dey Monique! Show dem why yuh BAD!
Oh, and if I could age half as well as Stacey Dash or Halle Berry I'd be a happy woman. Talk about Hottest Chicks in Da Game! Wow.
Seriously.
Your media darling,
Asha
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Fela!
How AMAZING!
I was in New York F'n City to bring in the New Year and along with hitting a few parties I really wanted to go and see Fela! I am SO happy that I got to see it.
Me and my girl braved what had to be the coldest night EVER to see the magnificentity that is the story of Fela Kuti - multi-dimensional musician and human rights activist. We walked the 7 blocks from the subway station to the TCKTS Discount booth. The winds were so powerful I didn't think we would make it there alive. My face and hands were numb despite my wool scarf and gloves. I was actually trying to walk with my eyes closed because I thought my contacts were going to turn into icicles. I kept bumping into the tourists who were caught up in the amazement of Times Square but I was too cold to even utter "sorry" (I feel bad about that now).
I was delighted to see that the line wasn't that long and even more happy when we got our balcony seats for just $67...regularly priced $125...score! Even though there was more than an hour 'til show time we decided to just walk to the two blocks to the theatre and wait inside the corridor where it was warm(ish). There stood some other eager patrons waiting for the doors to the auditorium to open. I had the pleasure of chatting (after macco'n) with a long time dance teacher. She beamed when she explained that she was Sahr Ngaujah's (who stars in the show as Fela Kuti) first dance teacher. She spoke of him like he was her child. It was wonderful. Some young dance students were in the line too and took the opportunity to ask Ngaujah's dance matriach insightful questions. She graciously spewed out names and numbers and websites of the essential...
When the doors finally opened we danced our way to the balcony to the rythms of an Afro Cuban band - sssssick! I surveyed the room as cool New Yorkers and tourists alike made their way in. I loved loved LOVED the decor of the auditorium filled with bright colours, grafitti and portraits. I took out my camera and started snapping away and behaved surprised when the handsome attendant told me, "Ummm...excuse me Miss...but there is no picture taking allowed". Right. Anyway, soon thereafter the music was getting louder I could see that the dancers were warming up ready to make their entrance. Excitement! Right away I noticed the friend of my AMAZING dancer-sistah-friend whom I had met yeeeeaars ago. I told my girl, "Look! There's Nicole!" We started clapping feverishly and I made a mental note that I need to 'up' my whine'ing skills. She was moving wid such ease and fluidity and I wanted to mimic every gesture! Dancers sprayed across the stage...climbed ladders...sang and high fived eachother. Fela Kuti made his way to center stage and welcomed us, to the Shrine! His opening monologue explained how he went to England to study medicine but fell in love with music and worked his way into the night clubs instead of libraries. I just adore how good music always errs on the side of rebellion and the movements of the dancers behind Fela demonstated just that - smoking and gyrating, slithering and grinding...
I wish I could have documented every note and tune and play it over and over. There was so much inspiration for me from this show...both new and nostaligic. I loved the make-up that the dancers sported - gave me ideas Carnival or just for a fun night out. The clothing was so beautiful and one could 'hear it' much like a Carnival costume too. The music and movements are a reflection of how strong and relevant our lineage is. Awesome.
The moments of love and hate, happiness and sadness, triumphs and failure were all savoured but yet gone too soon. I was sad when the show was coming to end. When each of the dancers came out for their final bow I yelled out, "Nicole!". She didn't hear me but I beamed the same way the dance teacher did of her student...
Scene.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Precious
Over the holidays I went to see the movie Precious. After recieving so much attention and being executive produced by Oprah, what was I really waiting for? Truth be told it takes me a loooooooong time to see a movie. I often have to get the recommendation from friends and family as well as credible media hounds. Actually one of my good friends thought that this movie 'isn't for you, Ash' because of some of the images...and I am prone to nightmares for weeks after seeing certain flicks. Well, this was one of those movies. Within the first five minutes I had to seriously talk to myself not to leave the theatre. I cringe right now as I remember the scenes featuring vaseline and fried chicken. It is the same feeling of fright when I remember scenes from Boys Don't Cry or Monsters Ball.
I know it is unrealistic but I always want only the fantasy from movies...the riding off into the sunset and the happily ever afters. But what are we to get from movies? The answer to that question is as broad as the Art imitates Life concept. That being said, the movie does a fantastic job at encouraging dialogue of the painful truths of incest and domestic violence.
I'm the eternal optimist and always find the good in any painful silver screening. Hilary Swank and Halle Berry got their Oscars from the very movies I feared although I was kinda mad that Halle had to get in that 'way'...while on all fours - but I guess a really beauty as such she is had to get plenty ugly - I don't know - that is a debate for another post, right?). And now the lead character of Precious, Gabourey Sidibe is receiving her own Oscar buzz. It is almost like deja vu with that of Jennifer Hudson - not just plus-sized perfection but the under dog winning. I love NOTHING more! Go get 'em Gabby...you've got my support! I look forward to your red carpet moments and acceptance speeches. And check her out looking all glowy on the cover of V magazine. Nice!
Happy New Year!!!!
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