Thursday, September 30, 2010

{{The Kimi Chronicles:}} Dilemma...





I'd love some feedback from you guys - phantom readers included. 


So, a few months ago - I had a "friend" approach me for advice while I was back home. We would talk occasionally back in the day; I'd go to her place if I got locked out of my apartment (we lived in the same building). Nothing too serious - like I don't know her favorite color, and I never really talked to any of her friends. But we were cool nonetheless. 


She told me she was having issues with a guy she was seeing. Told me I knew him. Explained that he'd been ignoring her BBM messages and stopped contacting her for almost a month - and wanted to know what I thought she should do. The more she went on, the more concerned I started to get - because she was describing Him. Then finally, I asked who it was (for confirmation), and she* said his name. 


{{*Tangent: Keep in mind - this is a candid blog and you read it at your own discretion. I can't see you - but you can see me. Sooo. Carry on.}}
I say that because I know a lot of people read my blog on the low. Nothing wrong with that, just know I keep it real. 

Anyway - I was upset inside, but I tried my best to keep it to myself. I gave her unbiased advice to the best of my ability. Portions of her story seemed fabricated and embellished to me, but the bottom line was that according to her - they slept together. I simply told her that if he was not making contact with her - she should leave him alone. Not for my own guilty pleasure, but because that's what I would tell any girl that was being ignored. We changed subjects, but for some odd reason - she kept coming back to talking about him. I started to get suspicious, but I let it rock. Kicked her out the house shortly after, though (nicely, of course). Couldn't take it. 

Didn't mention it to him for a few days; I had to let it stew in my head for a while first. Brought it to him jokingly, and he told me his side of the story. There's so many dynamics to the story - but I'll omit them, because this is still the real world. But - he did say he didn't sleep with her and he befriended her for valid reasons. I don't put anything past anyone - so the jury's still out on the whole situation. I'm over it, though.

Anyway - she keeps putting statuses up directed to him on her BBM, and it's begun to aggravate me. He can't see what she writes, nor does he care - but I feel like they're directed to making me feel some kind of way. She's pretending to not know that we're together, but I truly think she does. I think she wants to upset me in some form (can't understand why)- but it's not working. She asked me for advice today again - on how to get over him. I felt like just saying that I'm on to her - but I don't feel like getting into the drama. I just think it's funny that all of a sudden she's calling me "like a sister" when we barely used to socialize beforehand. 

My best friend 50 and I came to the conclusion that they must have had some sort of sexual contact at one time or another. This is why she is so sprung. What degree of sexual contact there was - we'll never know, but she's become a nuisance in MY life because of it. I truly value my privacy, which is why I haven't just come out and said that he's my boyfriend - but this is getting to be exhausting.  I don't mind being her friend, but damn - am I supposed to put up with this? 

What do you guys suggest?? 

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Ryan Leslie - "Rescue You"





Looks like Kimi's back in her love song phase. Expect to see more of this. I just love and admire Ryan Leslie's instrumentals and smooth beat patterns. Especially since I've watched his youtube channel - and seen him construct his beats from scratch. His mind is beautiful, and some of his songs just sound like he plucked them from my brain. This - is one of them. Just in case you read this - I'll be there soon




Ryan Leslie - "Rescue You" ((Transition - Deluxe Version)) 


I don't know where you been
What you see
All of the good and the bad and in between
You can let it out tonight
I'm gonna be right here to surise
Don't be scared
of a thing
Let it flow
Whatever you feeling girl you can let me know
I'm here to make it alright
Even if it takes me all night

I know that it might be hard for you to say
But you can take your time
I ain't goin' nowhere
So slowly unlock your heart
Show me the way
To make it right
Baby I'm coming

Say I'm coming through to rescue you
I can be your super hero
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Girl don't be afraid to let go
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
You can hold me till you feel alright
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Stay with you till the morning light

Honey I'm here to take care of you
Make you forget of everything you're going through
Even for a moment in time Let me take you there in your mind
So follow me into another place
The tears that you cry, I'll wipe from your face
I'm here to make it alright
Even if it takes all night

And I know that it might be hard for you to say
But you can take your time
I ain't goin' nowhere
So slowly unlock your heart
Show me the way
To make it right
Baby I'm coming

Say I'm coming through to rescue you
I can be your super hero
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Girl don't be afraid to let go
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
You can hold me till you feel alright
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Stay with you all the way till the morning light

You ain't got to worry
I'll be coming to your rescue
Coming to your rescue
Whenever you need me
I'll be coming to your rescue
Coming to your rescue
When you're lonely at night, I'll be
Coming to your rescue
Coming to your rescue
Anytime that you need me
Baby just call
Just call me

Say I'm coming through to rescue you
I'll be your super hero
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Girl don't be afraid to let go
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
You can hold me till you feel alright
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Stay with you till the morning light

Say I'm coming through to rescue you
I can your super hero
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Girl don't be afraid to let go
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
You can hold me till you feel alright
Say I'm coming through to rescue you
Stay with you till the morning light


RLes performs Rescue You in the studio: 






Maya Angelou - "In and Out of Time"

Image from bellanaija.com


Ms. Angelou has to be one of my favorite poets of all time. Her words evoke such emotion, and her voice can be heard through the tone in each line...


The sun has come.
The mist has gone.
We see in the distance...
our long way home.
I was always yours to have.
You were always mine.
We have loved each other in and out of time.
When the first stone looked up at the blazing sun
and the first tree struggled up from the forest floor
I had always loved you more.
You freed your braids...
gave your hair to the breeze.
It hummed like a hive of honey bees.
I reached in the mass for the sweet honey comb there....
Mmmm...God how I love your hair.
You saw me bludgeoned by circumstance.
Lost, injured, hurt by chance.
I screamed to the heavens....loudly screamed....
Trying to change our nightmares to dreams...
The sun has come.
The mist has gone.
We see in the distance our long way home.
I was always yours to have.
You were always mine.
We have loved each other in and out
in and out
in and out
of time.



{{The Kimi Chronicles}} - Bitterness and Resentment

Image via servalcreations.com


As I move forward in life, I've started to realize how truly naive I've been in my thought processes. How I evaluate my relationships with people, how I let them affect my life. I have been wrong. I've put too much faith in people. Too much trust into the idea that most human beings are genuine in their actions and perceptions of others. I spent most of my younger years actually trusting people; those who were unworthy of such an honor. Trust is truly golden. 


I walked around with my heart on my shoulder, and people were often successful in ripping it off and taking pieces of it as they saw fit. I hurt as a result of it. I would sacrifice what I wanted to ensure other people's happiness and in the end, I would pay the cost. So, as the years go by - I learn to harden my heart somewhat; so that while it's on my sleeve it won't suffer so much damage. This plan is working. I'm at a happy point in my life, satisfied with how things are going - and positive for the future. 


That being said, I feel like there are some people in my life who are displeased with this. People I would least expect. I feel the bitterness and resentment pulsing off of them in the slightest, most subtle ways. Maybe not doing things to hurt me, but doing things to spite me. Make sense? And I started to see it. And it hurt. 


But what can I do? If you feel I'm progressing better than you, or that things happen to me the way you'd like them to happen to you. How can I change that? How can mistreating me make your life any better? 
SMH. Cutting your nose off to spite your face. 


At first I felt like I was doing something wrong, when all I'm doing is living my life! If you see something you want on someone else, don't covet it. Go out and get it yourself! I was Complacent Kim, Mistreated Kim, No Self-Esteem Kim for too many years to truly sit and feel ashamed for who I am. Confident Kim, Proud Kim, and Hustle Kim are out and in full effect - and they're not going anywhere, ANYTIME soon. 


So, prepare yourself

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Back on Track

I haven't been posting as frequent as I should - so much has been going on over the past few weeks!! I gave Shelby away to my aunt, I've been on the quest for a second job, planning my Great Escape, taking on a new title at work - and I just came back from Orlando last night. My life has its moments where it's all a blur - and sometimes I just need to stop and regroup. 


So, I'm back! 


I'm happy with the way things are going, and God has truly been blessing me and giving me a lot of time for introspection and planning. I've got only a few years left being classified as "young," so I have to utilize my time accordingly. I think I'm finally getting things right. Working on the relationship thing, and it's actually looking good. We're back to laughing together and having good conversation - I think I just allowed myself to worry too much. To let the opinions of others affect my world and thought process. I know better, so now I will do better.


More blog posts are coming. New Wildwood and all kinds of stuff! Like CousinJin said - we're about to take over the world! 



Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Healthy Hair Quest: Brazilian Keratin Treatment





Since going natural four years ago, I've done all kinds of things to my hair. I texturized it for a while - and had to chop it off all over again. I have yet to touch a perm to it after all these years - but I do battle with shrinkage on a constant basis. My hair is extremely resilient and tends to reject products, so this issue remains. I've been researching the Brazilian Keratin treatment and I decided that this is a great way to maintain my natural curl and combat the shrinkage genies. 


My hair after deep condition and blowout. Permless. Lasts about a day.



I don't do hair videos and pics because I use a huge array of products and don't always do what I'm supposed to do with my hair. During busy times, protective styles are my favorite, and you might even catch me in a hat or two during the week. I'm trying to minimize that and let my soul glow more often - and I think this is just the way to do it. 


Pre-shrinkage. I love it. Post? Nahh.

One girl I've been watching on YouTube is "al00fone" - her music playlists are off the chain, and her videos are really quick and easy. She did the keratin treatment on her own, and got awesome results. I, personally don't trust myself to do such a thing, so I'll be going to NY to get the treatment done. 









She also has a follow-up video to show her hair a few months after the treatment. I'll post that soon, too.


My homegirl Ashley's gone through with the treatment, so I'm going to follow up with her and see how she feels about it. 


Anyone else ever done it? Consider it?? 


Before and After Pics:






Hard to find images of "black" hair that weren't permed prior to the BKT. I will keep searching... 

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Whooty Wednesday: CoCo T and the Sachika Twins - Runway Explosion...

You know I rate CoCo heavy - I truly believe her booty is official, and amazing! NY's the Sachika Twins had a runway event during Fashion Week, and featured CoCo in this bangin' backless purple dress. The booty cleavage is out of this world... 


Peep the red soles - CoCo is certified


Now, I dunno what I'ma do - but I'ma do it... Gotta get like this! 




I am a "firm" believer in her body - look at those thighs! You ever peep these new booty chicks? Legs look like chickens - peep Angel Lola Luv's artificial body... 


Anyhow - the Sachika twins are up and running in the fashion world, and their designs are definitely modern with vintage hints. Feel free to check out their new designs for yourself:
 Sachika 2010 Lookbook


Much love to CoCo for showing these ladies how to be a real vixen; get married, stay married - but keep the guys' noses wide open... 

Miguel sings "All I Want Is You" - Acapella

I find this young man intriguing. Maybe artsy music guys are what I should be looking for? 


Direct link here (If video doesn't play)





The vocals could have been better - but he was sitting down and it also sounds like he was in a small space. Make due with what you got, boo. I still rate you! 



Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Red Bottoms - the Louboutin Story...



I know all my ladies out there have caught wind of the Louboutin fever. I've been watching red soles since I was in junior high school - I just couldn't afford them. There's not too many ladies my age who can afford them -but for those who get their hands on a pair, they are truly a sight to behold.


Louboutin's "Fetish" ballet heels featured in Beyonce's "Green Light" video. 

Most girls in my hood can't even say the name right. It's not how it reads - it's pronounced "Lou-bit-on" - not "Low-bow-tin" as I thought when I was in seventh grade. That being said - if a girl pronounces them wrong and has them on - guarantee she has on fakes. 


The red-laquered sole began in 1997, but it wasn't until 2007 that he made the wise decision to apply for trademark protection for his signature style. I can give you a few instances where I've spotted blatantly fraudulent red-bottoms in retail stores. I can only name once incident, though - where I spotted a girl wearing cheaply made red-bottoms in the club. Lucky for her - nobody cared to notice. 


In his trademark application - Christian explains the accidental creation of the red-bottom phenomena: 


   "In 1992 I incorporated the red sole into the design of my shoes. This happened by accident as I felt that the shoes lacked energy so I applied red nail polish to the sole of a shoe. This was such a success that it became a permanent fixture."


Since then - his shoes have been worn and coveted by the likes of every famous celebrity, male or female. His sneakers are blazing a trail in the designer footwear industry as well. 






I say all of that to say this - if you can't afford these shoes, and we know you can't afford them - DO NOT buy fakes! The world will expose you. While his entire brand is not extravagant, the heels from five inches and up usually run about $1500.00 if not more. Most girls my age cannot spend money on things that expensive. Stick to the affordable styles - or don't get them at all. 


Secondly - if you can afford them - DO NOT break bank just to get a pair. This still means you can't afford them. If you have to skip your rent to buy these shoes, they are not for you. 


Lastly - DO NOT trick to get them, either. You sort of earned them - with your vagina (or mouth), but everyone will still know you didn't buy them. And, what's the point in owning something you don't deserve? You still won't get recognition for it - your jaws will... 


I have strongly considered saving my money up to get a pair, but the grown woman in me knows that I have bigger responsibilities to work on. The money I would spend on those shoes can help my down payment on whichever home I chose. I think my red-bottoms can wait for now. Unless I come across a sweet deal - then we can talk business...








How to Spot Fakes: 

Images by theluxechronicles.com


Websites like BuyChristianLouboutin.com and Louboutin-x.com are definite no-no's. So ladies - it's best to stick with what you can afford. Love you! Holla at you "shoenistas" later... 

Monday, September 13, 2010

9*13*10 - Letter to Pac...





Tupac Amaru Shakur,


You saw no changes back in 1996 - but I see many in 2010. They may not be obvious to the naked, naive, jaded eye - but take a look, and you'll see. Colleges are filled with brown faces - especially black faces. Trying to get out of those same situations you rapped  spoke about. I see law enforcement loaded with good cops, trying to change the face of the streets. I see the alternative high school in town, branded for the "bad kids" - actually doing the opposite. Those are the kids who live in poverty, experience violence - and can't stand to see it anymore. They graduate. Let's see what happens next. 


Changes.


We weren't ready to see a Black president back then. You missed the falling of the towers, though. When the smoke and dust settled - all we had was a war on our hands and a screwed up (White) president. It was beyond time. Hundreds of troops dead, and now our Black leader is left to clean up the mess. Story of our lives, right? 


Changes...


Those jails filled with our men. Still filled with them. This time around, our younger generations are trying to avoid prison. So many of them are out in the world; working - hustling legally - making a way. I respect all the budding clothing lines, successful record labels, hair salons, barber shops, boutiques. Not to mention the up and coming doctors, nurses - everyone in the medical field. Check out the next graduating class - loaded with black teachers and entrepreneurs. I plan on being one of them. 


Sound like plenty of changes to me... I think us young folk would make you proud. Next time I'm in Tijuana, I'll try and deliver this letter to you. Just know your legacy lives on here in America... 

Sunday, September 12, 2010

||NYC Thuggin'|| - Fashion Night Out 2010

So, I didn't even realize the day was Fashion Night Out. I just wanted to hit the city with my friends. I packed regular Kimi clothing for the weekend, which often translates to something quirky or still ends up being fashionable. When Alyster told me what day it was - I hurried up and put something together, and I think I did alright. 


- Threadless Tee
- Rue 21 leggings
- Nike Air Max Ltd






We started off the day at the BAPE store in NYC - where we had to purchase an $80.00 t-shirt in order to see the iconic Pharrell. You would think the price would scare people away, right? Wrong. The line was like 200 deep, and lucky for us - our friends were already on line. We stood out there for almost two hours - but we got in, got our wristbands and hit the streets to kill time. 7PM would equal a free performance for everyone, followed by a meet-and-greet for the kids who scored wristbands. 




The line was banoodles, but a bunch of fly kids usually results in peace - since no one wants to ruin their kicks. 




There was a plethora of sneakers out there; some of them fake, some official. It was a treat to see what people would step out in. 


If you've never been in the BAPE store, it's a sight to behold. They consolidated it a bit, but it's still worth a trip. Space themed everything, paired with ice-cream and "board" games makes it a nerdy kid's wonderland. 




Of course, we were in there acting a fool...






We grabbed a bite to eat, then joined the crowd at the concert.




The concert ran on into the night...


Then - finally - it happened. After more hours of standing on line. The moment.


Yes! AND he put his hand on my waist! My life is fulfilled. 

More pics to come. Still reveling in the excitement. I had an awesome weekend! 

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Nine Years Later - Has Anything Changed??



Nine years ago, an event took place that changed the world forever. Those planes not only took lives, but made us realize that this country is not as well-liked as it seems. It truly opened our eyes to the feelings of quite a few people on this earth. What exactly were the terrorists trying to prove? That America can actually be wounded? That this country has a soul? We always did, and we always will - but I do believe that the event provoked emotions that this country has not seen in quite a while.

People were carrying each other through the rubble. They were crying on each other's shoulders. When do you get to see New Yorkers cry? This carried on for months after. And then, like New Yorkers do - we strengthened our hearts and began to rebuild. We got up and went back to work; to the hustle and bustle of city living. 

We didn't forget, though. 

But did we lose the sensitivity? Has it gone back to the "mean streets of NY?" Honestly - growing up in NY, I don't think we have. As I bustled through the crowds last night, people actually said excuse me, and sorry. Almost got into a fight  - and the guy who started it all told us to have a good night. This is not the NY I'm used to. Things have changed, and I think the attitudes of a lot of us has changed with it. In fact, I think Floridians are a whole lot meaner than us Northerners. I dunno what all the hype and hooplah is about.

Watching the memorial today really choked me up today. The amount of names that were called is truly devastating. We lost that many human lives in one day? How could we not be moved? I just hope that this is a constant reminder that no man is an island. We'll all have to rely on someone at some time in our lives - especially during times of crisis like these. Who will you lend your shoulder to?




Saturday, September 4, 2010

All I Want Is You...



"Damn. Cold world..."



This week was an awkward one for me. I had a guy approach me at the gas station and ask me for my number. I went out on a limb - and gave it to him. He called and texted me consistently throughout the week, consequently resulting in him asking me out for dinner. Oddly enough, after putting him off for a few days - I gave in and said yes.


I won't lie. Being complimented and paid attention to was nice. But throughout the meal, all I kept wondering about was Him. What he was doing, if he was thinking about me. How much I miss him. Wasting the man's time. I had a really enjoyable dinner - but found zero attraction. How come? 


Is it because I'm so fixated on this one human being that I can't see anyone else? Believe me, I've tried to withdraw my feelings, but I just can't seem to do it. In the back of my mind, I keep hoping that there's some sort of twist to this story and things will get better. This passive thing he does is starting to aggravate me, and I don't know what else to do. It's not like I don't have options, you know? I just know what I want and I can't walk away from him - no matter how I try. I think he knows this. He has once again become my kryptonite. Great. 


Guess I can take the S off his chest now...