It's NEW YEARS EVE!!!!

Still can't believe it's the last day of 2009! Out with the old, in with the new! New year, new decade! Have fun tonight! Let's bring 2010 in with a BANG!!

xx.

M

The Princess and The Frog

So many African Americans went to this movie, and blogged/complained about this short beautiful tale. African American Adults wanted so much out of this movie, because it is the first African American Princess. I hesitated on writing my blog entry, because I didn't want to be an adult male as the reviewer. I wanted this review to come from my nieces, who this movie is for, young African American children. Sorry you adults, your opinion (in my opinion) IS NOT VALID!!!!!!!

My nieces, danced in there seats, sang some of the songs (off key) and loved every moment of this tale! To quote my oldest niece at eight years old Diamond-Jay said "Tiana is so beautiful, and she looks like me"! "I want to be her, this halloween"! My smallest niece I must admit did fidget a bit, but fell in love with this tale as well! She laughed hard at the jokes, and smiled the biggest smile ever. They even had there dorky uncle James dancing along with them in my seat! They got to see themselves represented on screen, in a beautiful disney tale, that even uncle James can't wait to own. I even cried some tears of joy at the end of the piece, OK OK, I am a big old sap! I will admit though my one niece did say "Alvin and The Chipmunks the sequel was better, but she still loves Tiana"! Well, there you have it folks, no matter what people say, the Kids loved the movie! Who cares what the adults think, because it really isn't for them anyway!

Ring in the New Year!

With the last week of 2009 having officially begun (Can you beliiiiieveeeee in four days it will be 2010? Someone please tell me where time has gone!!!!), I thought it would be appropriate to usher in the new year with a new style! The Digit Ring. I have been absolutly pining over these rings that go on the top halves of your fingers, or your "digits," ever since the Olsen twins were caught wearing them (I wore a really small one in my first shoot back on my 11/9 post). Lucky for me, I ran into the designer behind the new jewlery line Sarah Davida. She has been disigning these cute little baby-sized rings, which she calls "mid-finger cuff rings," for quite a while now after discovering them "by accident" when wearing scraps of the sterling silver she was using while taking a metalsmithing course. Good thing she did, because these bad boys are going to be the newest rage and I'm already ordering a few custom-engraved rings from her! They look sick stacked with all of your good old ordinary rings. Totally the new accessory!!!

Check out the Sarah Davida Website here

Check out the Sarah Davida Blog here

If you're interested in getting your fingers on, or should i say...your mid-fingers on...these custom-made and engraved rings, contact me or go here

xx.

M

My Job As Santa!

I went down stairs to help put all the toys under the tree, for my spoiled, cute, intelligent, beautiful, nieces. However, I ended up sitting there, because my sister had it all arranged in her head, and wanted to do it herself. Like the peanut gallery, I sat and commented on every present/toy, that went under the tree. Watching the placement, as my sister, meticulously placed everything in it's proper position. I thought about the story I told my nieces, about, getting a piece of black coal for Christmas, if they were bad this year! Telling them that Santa only brings toys to good kids. Watching how scared they were, before they went to bed, made me laugh, and was priceless. I know, BAD UNCLE!!!!!! I'm excited about the early a.m., and watching there beautiful faces light up, as they run to the tree! OOOO, how can I forget the whole reason for this blog entry. I had one job, and that was to take a bite of the Cookie, and drink some of the milk, they left for Santa. I hope I did a good job, it was tough, cause that cookie was good, and I almost ate the whole thing!

HOME

When i think of home, I think of a place, where there is love over flowing! That is such an amazing first sentence, I wish I actually wrote it, and it wasn't lyrics from "The Wiz"! I am home right now in Pittsburgh, and smiling from ear to ear! My nieces, my dog, my family, the big old Christmas tree, the presents under the tree! The smell of the Pittsburgh air, the cars covered in snow! I love coming home, as I never had a chance to be home for the holidays, in over eight years. I am always working on Christmas, but this year, I am unemployed, and taking advantage of my family! I probably won't blog as much this week my blog family, as I am going to enjoy this holiday week, eating, no gym, no stress, no blogs, just me and my family! I wish all of you bloggers that read my blog, a Happy Holidays!

Much Love

J.R.

Happy Holidays!!!!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!!! A Life of Style will return the week of January 4, 2010.


Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Happy Kwaanza.

Enjoy the holiday season and see you next year!

Homeless v.s. Bum v.s. Wine Head!

How do you tell the difference between a homeless person, a bum, or a wine head? I have a serious problem with this, because you see I want to give to the world, and those in need! However I don't want to support a drug habit or someone who won't use the money for the right reasons! I gave up recently on giving to the people on the train or the streets. I felt so guilty lately saying no, when I'm blessed with so much! I'm like the Rosie O'donnell of the world, well, the poor version, and want to give, give, and give until no one is out on the streets. I wish there was a way to tell if your money is going for good or not? Back in the day I loved the people standing with the gimmick signs "Give Me a Dollar For Some Weed" signs! This would make me laugh, and I would think at least they are being honest! I would give them money, now I despise there honesty, because GO GET HELP, AND MAYBE YOU CAN GET OFF THESE STREETS! Or was this just a gimmick to get money for other things, like food....UGH!!!!!

My guilt is getting bad, but I'm learning to deal with it! Yesterday GOD knew I was feeling bad, and decided to step in and help me a little. I was ordering Chinese food from the corner Chinese restaurant! A homeless man looked at me in my eyes and pointed at me! I said "me" he nodded "yes". He put his head in the door and said "sorry sir, but I'm hungry, will you order me four chicken wings"! A big smile came over my face, and I said "Of course, come on in"! He said to me "Is this too much to ask for, can you afford it, I will just take an egg roll, if you can't afford the wings"!? I smiled even bigger "No, I can afford it"! Now this is the kind of a man, that I knew definitely didn't want alcohol or drugs! He was actually really hungry, and asked, exactly for what he wanted. I gave him more of course, four wings, shrimp fried rice, and an egg roll! Thank GOD for stepping in, and letting me help someone who looked so happy, and blessed by my actions! I watched a little as he tore through that food and finally said "Happy Holidays, and thank you so much sir, mmmmmm, this is so good"!

Movie Suggestions

I have been to a ton of movies in the last two weeks, because this is my favorite season for the movies. I'm hardly even finished, with my movie going! With The Golden Globes, The SAG Awards, and Oscars around the corner, I have to see as much as possible. Now is the time when all of the no frills, great acting, movies are released. I go to the gym, and when i come out, I walk down to the movies! Here are some of my movie thoughts, thus, far:

The Brothers

Jake Gyllenhaal, and Toby Mcquire are superb actors, and there performances are worth seeing! However, the movie itself is not so good. All the best parts of the movie you see on the previews, which I hate when they give to much away. The ending of the movie for me, was very disappointing! I thought to myself "is this it"? There is a new star in our midst in this movie, and her name is Bailee Madison. This little girl is the new child actress of our future, and she does some beautiful work in this flick!

Everybody Fine

I said, when I saw the previews for this movie, that I would rent it. It did not look that interesting to me. Why did I leave this movie filled with tears, and loving this simple story. It was so beautiful and Robert De Niro is brilliant as always. Such a tender role, and his mannerism was so familiar to me. I know this lonely old guy, and his performance was so touching! Such a sweet beautiful movie!

Precious

Well you know I already talked about Precious, and you have to know that this is the best movie of this year, hands down. I don't know if anything will touch this movie for me, but the race is still on! Monique's performance alone is worth more than the twelve dollars and fifty cents you pay in New York City for a movie! This movie is so heart wrenching, and you have to go with your Kleenex box ready at your arm at all times.

A Single Man

One of the most beautiful movies that I have ever seen, However, so dark, but simple and pure. Colin Firth gives a gorgeous performance! The supporting actors in it, are all super models in there looks, but so talented. The style and mood of the film is so artsy, and I enjoyed the feeling of the direction. I can't forget one of the best actresses who has been robbed in years to past, of an Oscar, (Being Julia) in my opinion Mrs. Julianne Moore! Her performance is stellar as well!

An Education

A must see at the movie theaters. I loved this tale, and all the performances were astounding! There is nothing more to say but go see this movie!

Up In The Air

I didn't care, and critics love this movie! People are obsessed, and it got nominated for so many awards already. I was bored, I found myself checking my facebook during this movie! Looking into space, wondering when it was going to end. I predicted most of the movie actually! BORING!!!! I can see how people find this movie interesting, but an award winner???? Hmmm, maybe it is just me, but I have to pass. George Clooney was great as always! I hated Anna Kendrick in this movie, and found her acting to be so NOT honest!!!!!! She could have made some of the funny choices she made, and it would have been better, if she believed them! HIDEOUS! On a happy note Vera Farmiga was so amazing and captivating on screen. Go see this movie at your own risk, I predict many awards for it, but I will be watching in disappointment!

Christmas at The White House A Surprise Revelation for me!

Joining Oprah and the first family through the beautiful White House, was an amazing experience for me. First of all, I'm in love with there dog Bo, and wanted him for myself asap! He was the sweetest dog, I had ever seen. The house was really beautiful, and I couldn't even imagine, living in that house at the holidays! How could you not be in the Christmas spirit every single day? A warm fuzzy feeling, grazed my body as I watched this stunning special on t.v. The interesting thing about the interview with the Obama family, was that I felt like I was watching my Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, or somebody I knew on the screen. There mannerisms, they way they spoke, there sense of humor. I know this sounds cliche, but now I understand more than ever, how important having the first family being an African American family, is to "us" as a culture. As you know, I never dreamed of this happening, and I'm all about may the best man or women win. I always knew that this was a special event, but the Christmas Special sent me over the edge. Wow, I can relate, to that person up there. If he can do it, so can my kids, cousins or any of my family members! The impossible dream, is now not so impossible anymore. Is this how Caucasians felt for years? Is this the feeling that was probably taken for granted? WOW, is this why Caucasian people felt relaxed in today's society? They got to sit at the most powerful seat for years, and also never felt like they couldn't reach and have what ever they wanted out of this life? This door has opened up for me, and I'm always one to try and break down a door! I'm glad I'm strong, but blessed to know that other young African Americans are watching, and feeling the exact same way! My wish now is that, other cultures: Latino Americans, Asian Americans etc. get to have the same feeling I'm having now someday!

A Life of Style & The Kreativ Blogger Award

I'm WAY behind on my blogging game and I will get better. I promise.

I am a major Twitter addict. It's my favorite social networking site. My tweeps (people I follow) are some of the most creative, positive, and motivating in Twitterland. One of my favorite stylish Tweeps, The Style Master, nominated me for a Kreativ Blogger award last month (Hush! I said I was behind on my blogging game. #dontjudgeme)

Thanks Style Master for the award!!!

When a blogger receives the Kreativ Blogger award they have to:

1. List 7 things that you don’t already know about me.

2. Name 7 other blogs to receive this award.

3. Leave a comment on each of the blogs I nominated.

4. Thank the person who gave you the award.

7 things you MAY NOT know about me:

1. I listen to all genres of music. If my iPod is on shuffle you'll get a mix of Jay-Z, Hector Lavoe, vintage Diana Ross, Vivaldi, Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, Snoop, Bebel Gilberto, Ryan Leslie... You get the point. I love music. Good music that is.

2. After every yoga class, I fall asleep. Not just a short nap but a deep sleep. So much for reaching my zen, lol!

3. As much as I love makeup, I'm no expert at application. I usually have my face done at a MAC or Nars counter for special events.

4. There's a good chance I'm the only Chicagoan with zero home town love or loyalty. Honestly Chicago does nothing for me *Kanye shrug*

5. I sometimes google old boyfriends and cackle with delight at how pathetic their lives are.

6. Last month I thought an apartment in my building was being broken into and I was impressed with how quickly I reacted. I grabbed a basket of magazines and tipped it over in front of the door. I grabbed my purse, cell phone, and Minnie Mouse blanket and hid inside my walk-in closet. I called 911 and was told that someone already called. Luckily it wasn't a break-in just a domestic dispute. While I was in the closet, I envisioned myself going all Charlie's Angels on the robbers. A flying kick here, a throat punch there. Yeah, 100% bad ass! Lol!

7. I'm a perfectionist and a control freak. Some see those traits as flaws, I think they're personality quirks that keep me on my toes always striving for the best.

Okay, I'm giving awarding the Kreativ Blogger Award to:

Haute & Hair (@TrendySocialte) - My BFF. This chica knows hair!

ChiTown Fashionista (@ShoeLovaDotCom) - Fellow Chicago blogger just as fashion obsessed as I am.

The Art of Accessories (@TheAofA) - Great blog about accesorizing to compliment your personal style.

Haute Travels (@HauteTravels) -The best mix of beauty, fashion, and travel in a blog.

LuxeTips (@LuxeTips) - Tips on living the luxe life written by a luxe mom on the go.

Mischo Beauty (@MischoBeauty) - Great site for beauty, skin, and hair information.

Fatback & Sushi (@RuralGlamour) - A quirky lifestyle blog with a unique twist.

The Windy City Winter Blues

It is officially winter in the wonderful Windy City aka Chicago. Frigid air, snow, and freezing rain brings on the winter blues. I get a bad case every year. Every time, I put on my many layers of clothing and top it all off with my heavy down coat, a little piece of my soul dies. I'm totally kidding but I do get a little annoyed. Despite the bone chilling cold, life must go on. There are still doctor's appointments, salon visits, job interviews and other social committments to attend. I find that the key to battling the winter blues is a creating a comfortable and warm home environment.

My comfortable warm home environment consists of my heat being on 70+, my favorite blanket (soon to be replaced by a pink Snuggie or a KN Kozy), a good book, a stack of magazines, or a DVD. I enjoy all of these while curled up on my sofa and sipping hot chocolate. My favorite is Mexican Hot Chocolate which I plan to make sans a mix one day.

Here's a recipe for Mexican Hot Chocolate from Epicurious:

Ingredients:

2 cups reduced-fat (2 percent) evaporated milk
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup chocolate liqueur
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder
10 cinnamon sticks
1 dried red chile
2 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, broken into pieces
1/4 cup heavy whipping

Preparation:

Whisk evaporated milk, whole milk, liqueur, vanilla, sugar, cocoa, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and chili powder in a heavy saucepan. Add 2 of the cinnamon sticks and chile and cook gently over medium-low heat until warm. Add chocolate and cook, whisking until melted. Gently bring to a high simmer; reduce heat and simmer until liquid thickens and reduces slightly, whisking often, 10 minutes. Combine heavy cream with remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and beat until peaks form. Ladle 1/3 cup hot cocoa into each of 8 teacups; top with 1 tablespoon whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick

If that's too much work, just order the Mexican Hot Cocoa mix from Moonstruck Chocolate. Enjoy in your favorite large mug, grab the latest issue of Vogue or Harper's Bazaar, and shut the cold city out.

picture courtesy of Epicurious.com

Restroom

So I got a massage in New York City, which, happened to be amazing by the way! I had to go wee wee, so I went into the little boys room, and this sign was up! Do you find this funny? I sure didn't, well, I guess they attempted some humor! I think they would be better off without the humor! If you have a chance, also take a gander at the last sentence! I think that is more funny than the joke! Just wanted to share with you blog world!

The Soap Opera Dies

I'm sure many of you who have read my blog know how I one day dreamed of being on a soap opera! It is very interesting, how that dream is dying, as well, as how fast the soap opera is fading away into the dust! I always wanted to be a soap star who does musical theater once in a while! That sounds like the ideal life, you get to do scene work everyday, and take a break sometimes to sing and dance on Broadway! For someone like me who loves a challenge and is all about the work, this would have been ideal. You can also be a celebrity, and not lose your life!! I'm sad to say, it seems the soap opera is dying a slow death. "All My Children", just moved to L.A. on Friday, leaving New York City in the dust. "The Guiding Light", light is turned off, as it left New York City, like three months ago, and is now off the air! Now I just heard "As The World Turns", the world will not be turning anymore, and it is closing the end of this year! Leaving New York City with only one soap opera left, "One Life To Live"!!!! That sucks big time for all of us New York City actors, leaving us with no soap opera work to be had! Killing my dream, and stamping it's big toe all over it, and smashing that dream into shattered pieces! Well, there are some soap operas such as "General Hospital", "All My Children", and "The Young and The Restless", and all filmed in LA... I guess I can still be a soap star, but how do I do double duty??? I can't be on a soap and Broadway from the West Coast? I guess I need to dream bigger???? I'm OK with that, because the world is at my feet to be had! Poor Poor Poor Soap Opera folks out of work!!!!! How much longer does the hit soap operas have? Are they all doomed to death? This is crazy, do housewives not watch soaps during the day any more? What is going on? Well, at the least, I can say the only soap opera that I still admittedly watch, is still on the air, and going strong. I would have to move to L.A. for that dream, but I can still have it in the back of my head. Oh, if you don't know, that is "The Young and The Restless", yes I admit it, I watch it almost everyday!!!!!

Proud, Happy, Tears!

Last night, I went to the theater to see friends on stage, perform for there lives! It was amazing to go back to a show, that I have seen before, and see it again, but this time with many friends on that stage! The piece of work I saw was "In The Heights", and I enjoyed it more the second time, then I did my first go around! The energy of the show is so fresh and great. You feel like everyone up there wants to be on that stage. Well, mostly everyone, there where a couple of people I saw marking, but not many, and for the most part the joy of the piece was there. "In The Heights" is such a simple tale, and in this case--less is more--works for me! I truly enjoyed Javier Munoz performance, you would think it would be hard to be a replacement (with big shoes to fill) in that show, but he was superb. Chris Jackson and Robin De Jesus, was brilliant as always! Olga Merediz, and Andrea Burns are always top notch!!!! There was one casting choice I would have done without, but I won't mention it, and I will keep it to myself, however, SHE was fine, but I'm sure there was better out there. That is all I will say!

Now one of my x-cast members (Gabrielle Ruiz) who played Diana on the national tour of A Chorus Line is an understudy in the show! She was on for Nina the lead last night! When she walked out on that stage, I got so nervous for her. I don't know why, cause I know how extremely talented she is! She opened her mouth to sing, and heaven came out of her voice! She sounded so pure, so strong, so amazing. My eyes began to swell up like a proud dad. You see this is her dream show, and she talked about how she wanted to play Nina so badly while she was in A Chorus Line! To actually see her make her Broadway Debut, and to see first hand, everything she talked about come to life on that stage. Has touched me in so many ways, that I can't even express. She was beautiful, and triumphant last night, and I'm very proud of her.

Secondly our Paul from the A Chorus Line tour, (Kevin Santos) is also an understudy, but he was in the ensemble of the show last night. It was great to see him up on that stage. He danced so beautifully, and his presence was stellar and star studded as always. There was a scene in particular, when he wears this "smooth criminal" suit, and the grandma is singing her face off, and I couldn't keep my eyes off his lines, and the way he moved. BRAVO!!!!! I say "BRAVO"!!!!!

Lastly, a dear friend of mine from "Mamma Mia", (Rick Negron) who has many Broadway credits, is now playing the dad "In The Heights", and it was great to see him..I expected him to be the star that he is, because he is so seasoned, and gifted. It was amazing to see his work in this show, because he too, during the "Mamma Mia" days, talked about how he wanted this. Here he is making it happen, and that was awesome!

I am so proud and inspired by the theater once again, and it is good to see friends, and watch before my very eyes there dreams come true! I also had a couple other friends in the ensemble, that I don't want to forget, they were beautiful as well on stage! The show as a whole still has so much heart. The cast is stellar, and I suggest everyone to go see "In The Heights"!

match.com update

OK my friends keeping asking me how is match.com going for me? Well, here is your update on my online love life! I hated every second of it, and it didn't turn out to be something I personally wanted to do. I deleted my account, and am no longer looking for love on line! It is just not my kind of thing, and it was time to stop waisting my time. I think this was a great revelation at this point of my life. I am so focused, on me, and my career, that a love life will have to be on hold. Well there you have it, MATCH.com is not for me.

A Life of Style: I'm Cocoa Buttery

My nemesis, winter has arrived to spread bitter cold and icy air all over the city of Chicago.

Gotta love Midwest living...

This winter I am fighting dry skin with cocoa butter. Palmer's Cocoa Butter is a long time favorite product. I slather it on while my skin is slightly damp and rub it in very well. Then I breathe in all that warm cocoa buttery scent. Aaaahhh...

Next I spray on CVS Pharmacy Cocoa Butter Dry Oil Spray. This helps seal the moisture in and is a great way to layer all that wonderful cocoa loveliness.

My skin stays smooth and moisturized throughout the whole day.

Stay Cocoa Butterlicious!

(p.s. pay no attention to my cluttered bathroom shelves. I'm a product junkie.)

A Life of Style: What The Pink Slip Fashionista Wore

Soooo.... I have officially been unemployed for one year. I am bored and well past ready to go back to work. Major cubicle withdrawals and missing office camaraderie. I just need someone to HIRE ME but first I need the phone to ring for an interview, but that's another post.



Despite the fact that I'm not working, I still get dressed everyday. Blue jeans have become my everyday go to wardrobe staple. I have over sixty pairs so I can rotate quite often. I find that jeans are very easy to create various looks, just change the top and accessories. Perhaps I've gotten a little lazy with my style - who could blame me? Despite that, I think I manage to look very cute and never frumpy or boring.



Viva la blue jeans!!!





out of work fashonista by citydiva19 featuring Gucci bags

'>That's today's outfit. I have some errands to run and I'm meeting a friend for lunch in an hour.

Tamara Tunie

Like me Tamara Tunie is born and raised in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania! I met her mother the other night, she was with a friend of mine going to see the musical "Girl Crazy" at encores! Her mom was so sweet, with such a beautiful light around her, and great energy! The weird thing was I had been meaning to blog about Tamara Tunie, she had been in "my blog ideas" for a while now! After meeting her mother, I knew it was time to finally write about this talented actress that I admire! Now, oddly enough, with as many mutual friends as we have, I have never met Tamara Tunie, but I'm sure it will happen in the near future! The genius part about Tamara's career, is that you may see her in a movie, on a soap, on T.V. and on Broadway at any time. She is also a silent producer, such as producing shows like Spring Awakenings! This women is smart, and has her hands all over New York City! This is the career I only strive for. At one point Tamara was in the concert production of Dreamgirls playing Michelle, also, on As The World Turns, as a principal, and at the same time on Law Order SVU! A show that you can still see her on. I was in amazement, at all the shows she was in at once. Did she have a life? How did she do it all at the same time? I have so many questions for the beautiful star?? Well, I just wanted to introduce you blog world to another talented actress! With a life I dream of someday having, I say hat's off to Tamara Tunie!!!!!

My Heart Was Happy

Yesterday as I got on the train I felt my heart get filled up with love, and I couldn't help but stare at some amazing New York City simple events! I saw a dad, pushing a stroller, and he had his little daughter and son! Something about seeing a dad take care of his two children, pulled at my heart strings. I watched the masculine man, push the stroller, listened to the roar of his New York City voice, and loved the precious moments he spent with his children. I think this gets me every time because I never had a dad growing up. It was always just me and my strong beautiful mother (Trudy)! When they got on the train, I watched out of the corner of my eye, in envy, in awe, as he played with the kids, explaining the New York City transit map to them, and just gave them all the love in the world. This made my heart very happy!

Then I got off the train to the gym, and was doing my workout! I was sweating, and not really wanting to be there, I kept day dreaming. I looked in one of the aerobic work out rooms, and inside I saw a Big Latino Man, ballroom dancing with an African American Male. I stopped, looked, and gagged, at how good they were. My eyes were mesmerized on the foot work, and the beauty, but yet the oddness of two men partnering each other! The big Latino man was the leader, and the skinny African American boy followed, as he turned, kicked, lunged, and dropped that head back to the ground in a layout. It was so stunning to watch, and motivated me for the rest of my work out. This made my heart very happy!

Lastly, I got back on the train to go back home, because I had a whole lot of homework to do, like learning this new monologue, Christmas cards, and learning some new music for my audition book! This time I got on the train upset, because it was so crowded and had to stand up. Ugh, I didn't want to stand, but right below was a little boy around 6 years old, and his mother. Nothing out of the ordinary about that, I watched them a little, and it was your normal mother/son relationship. Then about 10 minutes into the ride, the other mother grabbed the boys leg, and start playing in his hair. Oh, I didn't even know she was with them, I thought she was just another passenger on the train! This was a beautiful thing to behold, two moms taking caring of there son! My heart was very happy!

I Am Not Perfect And I Hate It!

I have a serious problem of wanting to be perfect at everything I do! This will definetely become a problem when I start my acting class at the end of January! UGH! Why am I such a perfectionist? Why do I work so hard at making it right? Why do I get frustrated when I can't get it the first time around? Yesterday in my voice lesson, when I couldn't sing, (OK I'm exagaratting) but I didn't sing my best! I got so upset with myself, and went home and practiced, practiced, practiced, practiced until my vocal chords was on the floor, and I could barely sing anymore. What???? They say practice makes perfect? Right? Then at the gym today, I couldn't get an excercise my traininer was teaching! I couldn't do it? My heart raced, my mind raced, and couldn 't grasp at the idea that it wasn't happening? I kept trying, and my trainer encouraged me by saying" in time, I will be able to do it and, that I just need to work on my core more". But I was not happy with it, and it ate at me the whole day! UGH! I hate this perfectionist side, wish me luck, and I hope I can breathe through it!

Update/The Visitor

My room is coming together quite nicely, I have painted it a very calming color, I have furniture, I even hung up some art! I'm so happy to finally have a bed to lay my head on, and when I tell you that mattress that I selected is like heaven. I never wanna get out of the bed, it is so amazing to my body! I was not playing with the mattress selection, I made sure to lay my head on all of them, before I chose one!

I have my first voice lesson with my teacher tonight, after like 5 years of being away. I'm a little nervous, and excited to work on some new music! I also have my interview with the acting school, I will be joining in January, tonight as well!

I did it again, I chose New York Sports Club, and got myself a personal trainer, but only for 10 sessions. I felt like I needed someone to give me a new work out. I'm feeling so stagnant with my old one! New York City has been great thus far, and the transition is going well, although, in many ways I feel like I'm starting all over in my career. However, I do think it is a great thing to reinvent ones self. I thought I should give you a brief update before I started my short blog entry this morning!

Here is the real reason I'm writing, I rented a movie yesterday, that I fell in love with! It is a short, simple, and great story. The name of the movie is "The Visitor", and I just fell in love with this indie film! I wanted to put it out there for the blog world to know what a great escape this movie is. I don't want to tell you what the movie is about, but I do want you to rent it! Lately, I feel like I should have been a critic in another life! However, that is one of the reasons I started this blog, I love to tell people about gem movies, theater, actors, etc! I love to give folks insight on things that are not that popular, so that you can explore other artistic avenues! The only problem is, you could enjoy the things I dislike, and dislike the things I love, and that is why having an opinion is so important! RENT THE VISITOR, tell me what you think?

In The Next Room or The Vibrator Play

Last night I got a free ticket to "In The Next Room or The Vibrator Play", and I didn't know what to expect! The play is taking place in the 19Th century, and it is about a man who is a scientist, and he invents a vibrator for "medical use"! That is all the information I will give you! This is definitely an adult comedy, that is produced by Lincoln Center! I laughed so hard, I found the play very sexual, adult, and smart! The story was very simple and interesting, however, I didn't leave raving about this play. I found it to be such a simple story, that I felt like the major conflict wasn't strong enough! To the point where there were times I was thinking to myself "When is something major going to happen"! I know sometimes less is more, but for me this time less didn't work! The cast is very strong, and the talent up on that stage could not be denied! Every character has a resolve at the end, which is always nice to feel complete at the end of a play! I will say it was quite clever and I was entertained, just not a rave review from me! On a last note you do get to see complete nudity at the end of the play, which kind of shocked me! I don't mind nudity when it furthers the plot, and I definitely felt like you needed it, for the arc of the lead character! It was done very tastefully and the set was a beautiful stunning transition in the end! Well blog world this is my review on this play, more to come, as I have more free tickets next week. I love having friends in the business, I don't have to pay to see Broadway! YAY!

Our First Lady; Michelle Obama!

They had the first state dinner at The White House, and last night I dreamed I was at the lavish-- vegetarian feast! I saw it on the news, and it looked beautiful! Well, due to the holiday, and my baby sister's birthday! I'm keeping this blog entry short and sweet! The highlight of the evening, and the thing everyone is talking about! Is the fashion our first lady wore. Michelle Obama is so stunning and is giving Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy a run for her money as best dressed first lady! Jacqueline was a star and a trend setter, and it is nice to see Michelle do the same thing for our generation! I leave you blog world with some pics of our beautiful first lady, and her stunning dress designed by Naeem Khan (whose name is now on the map)! HAPPY TURKEY DAY MY FRIENDS!

Adam Lambert

The American Music Awards is always my least favorite award show, because the winners are based on record sales! Which is not as thrilling as some academy of music, nominating a person, on talent and artistry! However, I did manage to catch some of the show, and most of the performances! Now to the point of this whole blog, I did enjoy Adam Lambert risky performance, although he does sound like a musical theater performer singing pop! He works a little too hard vocally, but it is nice to hear he can actually sing. When most albums are over produced with pro tools and affect!

His over the top performance, of making out with a man, and walking around sexually driven! Was fun to me, and it look liked an awesome show! Nothing about that number, has freaked me out, and it isn't anything I haven't seen on stage before. When we have artist like Lady Ga Ga who gets praise for rolling around in blood. Or Madonna who sings Like a Virgin in a wedding dress while basically masturbating on the ground , and then making out with Britney Spears. When we have Marilyn Manson period! Why does Adam get so much flack you might ask? Hmmmmmm..Is it because he is a homosexual male? So many double standards in this country, and America needs to get over themselves, and there "gay" issues! Now Good morning America is not letting him perform on there show, but CBS said " Your Stupid" we will take him! I don't know what exactly happened, but why couldn't Good morning America just ask him to tone down his performance???? Oh well, I guess CBS knows controversy sales. This is actually a great beginning for Adam, making people talk about you, is the best thing an artist can do!

THE MORAL OF THIS STORY IS HOMOSEXUAL RIGHTS, LET FOLKS GET MARRIED, AND LEAVE ADAM LAMBERT ALONE!!!!! (BIG SMILE)

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

To walk into church on a Sunday is always something I look forward too! I actually love organized religion, a place where you can pray, experience your faith, and love for GOD with others! The one reason I chose The Brooklyn Tabernacle was, because I love music ministry! If you know me , then you know, I love good music, and when I sing I feel closer to GOD! However, this Sunday at the Brooklyn Tabernacle I just did a bunch of listening! The choir sang, joy, love, peace, and happiness swept through my body! The 5 time Grammy award winning choir is so amazing, then, unexpectedly a new soloist came up, that I never heard sing! She was a white women, with big eyes, and she stood there, so calm, and reverent! I thought to myself "What is she going to do", I know judging at church!!!! (OPPS) Anyway, she opened her mouth, and a voice from heaven, a anointed voice like no other came out of her mouth! She sang for the blood of Jesus, and the holy spirit was filled all over that place! She hit notes, and modulated up, up, up and up! Just when you thought a human voice couldn't go any higher, she did it again! WOW!!!! There is so so so much talent right there at The Brooklyn Tabernacle, and I truly enjoy there music ministry! If you get a chance and you are in NYC, you have to make a trip to Brooklyn on a Sunday just to hear this awesome choir sing! It is something I look forward to every week!

DREAMGIRLS

I have always been obsessed with the musical "Dreamgirls", and I probably know every song, every line, and every beat in that show! It is apart of my history in theater, and is one of those shows that has helped me to dream of what I want to do for a living! I haven't seen a good production of "Dreamgirls" in my life, I always see the show, and I'm disappointed at something! Thursday evening the cast of A Chorus Line, (The X Cast of ACL) got free tickets to the revival tour of "Dreamgirls", because it was a Michael Bennett work, and we share producers!

I walked into the legendary iconic Apollo theater, with a joyous spirit, this is where it began for many artist! To see the musical "Dreamgirls" in this space was so appropriate to the show, the era, and where this show takes place! Some people claim the story of "Dreamgirls" is the true untold story of Diana Ross and the Supremes! However Diana Ross denys it, and claims that it is a work of fiction. Even though the parallels to the Supremes and the musical is very evident! I sit back in my seat, greeting all my fellow X Chorus Liner's, I felt very safe, because I didn't feel unemployed anymore. I felt like I was still on tour with the cast in some random city! Anyway, the show begins, and too much my surprise this production was revived and was brilliant! I loved every moment of it, from the amazing costume changes, to the jumbo trom projectors, to the extreme talent on that stage! I was twisting and turning through the music, and enjoyed every one's performance. Those folks on that stage was sanging there faces off, and I can't imagine doing that eight times a week! The choreography was amazing, a new take on Michael Bennett's work, and I usually don't like change to this musical, but it was all for the better. One of the highlighted choreographed moments was "Stepping To The Bad Side", this was off the chain! AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! I'm trying not to tell you too much blog world, because you have to see this national tour!!!! It is so hard for me, because I want to tell you everything! Just trust me it was an awesome experience, and wonderful unexpected night in theater. Three actors to mention of stealing the show was the characters Effie, James Thunder Early, and Lorelle! All three were superb and went home with the show in the palm of there hands! The Lorelle was my favorite by far though, she was the most well rounded, actress, singer, and dancer! Some scenes left me speechless with chills up and down my spine! I advice everyone to go see this production of "Dreamgirls" you will not be disappointed! One of my favorite shows brought back to life, and done in a way that everyone will enjoy it!

The Jheri Curl

I was on the train yesterday, minding my own business, reading "Breaking Dawn", the last of the books from The Twilight Series! I looked up from my book, and across from me was a man with a jheri curl! A real life jheri curl, from the 80s! I haven't seen one in so long, that it took me by surprise! Do they still sell "soul glow" products out there in the world? I started laughing so hard, that I had to pretend that my loud chuckle came from reading my book! I really couldn't believe my eyes, and he had the kind of jheri curl, that had the big shag in the back of his head. Jheri Curls were always so messy in the late 80's, you had to wear a cap over your head so that you wouldn't have pillow stains! The jheri curl is so greasy, shiny, and crazy looking! I found myself mesmerized by the jheri curl, and staring at him out of the corner of my eye! He looked so "period" on the train, and I wondered does this man think he is cool? Is he making a statement? Did he just never change his hair from the 80's? Is he married? What does his wife think about his hair? How does his friends or siblings feel about his hair? Is the person next to him going to get wet from his jheri curl juice? Hmmm?? Well, this man certainly got me to thinking about a messy time in African American hair, and I truly hope the jheri curl doesn't come back!!!!!!

Chapter TWO: First Day "Home" in NYC

The day started with a lot of phone calls, and just trying to get settled! Searching for furniture for the bed room, (as I lay on an air mattress) paint colors, etc! The beginning of furnishing a bed room that is just four walls and some suit cases! Calling to make all my doctors appointments, dental, eye exams, etc! Things that were hard to do on tour! After all of that was done, I went on the search for the "right" gym for me! The gym is so important to my lively hood and my career! This tour has put me in many gyms, therefore I feel my search and fit has to be just right! I now know what I want from a gym: clean, good classes, and a friendly supportive environment! My search led me to many in New York City, but today I'm deciding between David Barton or New York Sports Club! We shall see who wins the fight???

I fired my agent yesterday, because we just want two different things for my career, and now I'm on the search for a new agent! I feel like I'm starting all over again, and I'm not mad at it! Now I'm doing things, that I know I should do, because the last time I lived in New York City, I didn't take advantage of the system, and couldn't afford to do so many things. This time I am doing it my way, and taking a major intensive acting class! That I start at the end of January, and I'm getting those chops back up to par! I realized that this is my dream, and I have to make it happen. I'm very picky now, and hands on with my career! I'm going to make it happen, and nothing is going to stop me!!!!!

As I walked around New York City yesterday, it felt new to me! The air, the buildings, the people, and maybe it is because I have changed so much since the last time I lived here! I'm more focused, grounded, and ready to fight for my career! I know it sounds so intense, but in this big city you have to put your arms up! And just start swinging, if you want to come out on top. New York will take you in, chew you up, take all your money, and spit you out!!!!!! GET INTO IT!

The night ended with one of my favorite things; a movie! Going to see a movie with a savvy New York audience is always fun! I saw the movie "Precious" last night! I cried from beginning to end, and marvelled at it's brilliance! All of the actors in this movie are so raw, honest, and spell binding! I will say it again, this cast is so fantastic, and this story tore me to pieces! You have to go see this brilliant work on the screen and I predict many Oscar nods coming it's way! I loved, loved, loved, this movie! Run to go see it! ASAP! Oh, and have your tissues in an easy place to reach, cause you will be using them!

Oh by the way, blog world, this is my 100Th post! I find it quite comforting that it is my 100Th and my first day writing about my new chapter of life! Thanks blog friends for following, supporting, and listening to my head! MUCH LOVE JUST J.R.

Chapter One is Over!

I have finished my year and half, and beautiful journey of A Chorus Line! It was an amazing closing night, and a feeling of joy rushed over my body! It was an emotional evening filled with cast members, smiling, crying, laughing, hugging, and just LOVE! You felt the ray of light shine through the whole company, and the love for each other through out the day was unavoidable! It was a very proud moment for me, and this chapter of my life on tour is now closed! I'm so happy to have shared a year and half with so many special people! With a show I dreamed of since I was a little boy, and to do it on this big scale! To tour the world, and give to people the joy, love, and passion I have for this show was an honor! I thank GOD every day for the experience itself! I also love my new family, we have been through so much together. Tour fights, love, laughs, cries, complaints, showmances, yearning and many other things! I will miss these people that I spent every moment with for a year and a half, my ACL family! Now off to the next chapter of my life! Chapter 2 begins today, as I lay here safe and sound in my Brooklyn apartment! This blog is no longer about the employed actor on tour, now to get to know the unemployed actor on a job search! On a journey to fulfill his life long dreams!