The List (2011 Edition)

28 12 2011

We all have our celebrity crushes; I’m just not shy about sharing mine:-).  A few years ago, I started making a yearly “list” of famous gentlemen who tickled my fancy. I figured it was time to unveil this year’s compilation. So, why am I doing this–purely for entertainment. Click here to see my pics from a few years ago, some of my favorites made the list again, lol. 

Here’s the list, in no particular order…

Denzel Washington

Yes, Denzel is almost old enough to be my father…but I’m saying, there needs to be a law against just how much ‘swag” one man can possess. Like a fine wine.

Channing Tatum

Not sure what it is about him.  Classic American looks maybe?  Not sure, but I love to see him, well, do anything on screen. Loved him in the movie Fighting.

Jesse Williams

He’s beautiful.  Those eyes. That’s all. I’m already a Grey’s Anatomy fan, this just sealed the deal.

LL Cool J

Once I figure out where LL’s fountain of youth is located, I’m going there. He’s an intelligent business man, talented and is a dedicated husband and father.  What’s not to like?

Idris Elba

My knees go weak just mentioning the name, looking at a photo or hearing that GORGEOUS accent.  I’m determined to have him DJ one of my events just so I can look at him (yeah, I said it).

Common

I have been infatuated with Common since his first album…and even more attracted after learning some key facts: He’s a Christian, well-educated and a vegan (or strict vegetarian, either way I’ll take it). A man who loves the Lord and eats how I eat, YES!

 

Matthew McConaughey

A country boy with soul.  Love it.

Lenny Kravitz

He’s the quintessential rock star.  AND the only man who gets a free pass to wear skinny jeans.

 Joe Manganiello

I’ve watched True Blood since the series began, he’s the reason why I continued to watch when he joined the cast. He’s also done some non-profit work and supports the fight against HIV/AIDS.

 

Tyson Beckford

I have had a crush on Tyson since the first time I saw his photo.  He’s a super model for sure, but there’s also a delicate yet rugged quality about him.  And I also love chocolate skin.

Note: copyrights belong to the respective owners of all photos. Posting does not constitute ownership of any images.





Helpful Hints (Found this Article online)

17 03 2011

How to Make Your Girlfriend Happy

from wikiHow – The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Do you want to be the perfect guy for your girlfriend? This article explains how to be the ‘Mr Right’ she is looking for – without changing yourself!

Steps

  1. The most important thing is to learn about women. If you never understand women in general, how will you understand your girl? Women are very maternal creatures: they love taking care of things. That’s why she cooks you great meals, or worries when you don’t call after you’ve driven home. Understand that she is not being excessively clingy; it is a natural part of being a woman, and therefore part of who she is. Perceive it as a good thing; women are only inclined to do this if they genuinely love and care about you a great deal. If she has stopped doing these things, there’s something wrong! Most women are also very naturally affectionate and will often smother you with hugs and kisses and the like. The fact is, most will. That’s how they think they are showing their love for you. If you feel this is a little too much, tell her gently that you like/love her a lot, but you’re not ready for so much attention just yet. This won’t hurt her feelings, but she will get the message. Remember also that women have been raised around stories that end in girls finding the ‘Perfect Man’, become a Princess and live happily ever after. Therefore, it is ingrained into their subconsciousness that they must find a man who is perfect in every way. While this is basically impossible, this article will help you understand what will make her happy, without changing your own personality.
  2. Tell her you love her, make sure you mean it.
  3. Tell her she’s beautiful and mean it. Compliment her not only on her looks, but also on her accomplishments, talents and abilities. Always be sincere.
  4. Be confident. Be proud of being her boyfriend. There are appropriate times and places for affection. Kissing and intimate touching does not usually go over well in public. But don’t be too shy to hold her hand in public because you shouldn’t be ashamed that she’s yours.
  5. Never lie. This can taint the relationship and reduce her trust in you considerably.
  6. Do not argue in public and cause a scene. This will humiliate her and she’ll think twice about going out with you again. Similarly, If you and your girl have an argument, don’t do or say things to her that are mean and spiteful. That will make her think that you’re a maniac.
  7. Do NOT flirt with other girls at any time, especially when she’s around. It means you’re not loyal to your girl or your relationship with her. Most girls will view it as cheating and you just might lose her. Don’t be stupid.
  8. Don’t ever let her suffer from back-seat syndrome. Granted, you might have very close female friends who have been around longer. But if you appear to enjoy spending more time with them than your girlfriend – and she has noticed – she may be suffering from what girls call ‘back seat syndrome’. Think: how would you like it if she preferred hanging out with guy friends to you? What if she hung out with her guy friend alone? What if she was constantly texting other guys in your company? If she starts to mention that she is feeling second-place, change your attitude quickly, but don’t let your female friends slip out of the picture. Find balance. Don’t text them in her company, and let her know that you prefer spending time with her than other girls. Like you would with other guys, she will naturally begin to assume they are a threat. Don’t lie to her; you should genuinely enjoy spending time with your girl. If you are attracted to one of your female friends, it is a good idea to cut the communication short; it is highly likely your girlfriend will notice, and ultimately will start to consider how loyal you are to her.
  9. Don’t start getting lazy about how you look just because you think she’s yours. Continue trying to impress her because she might just lose interest if you begin to slack off.
  10. If you’re with your friends, never ignore her and start talking with your friends or walk off with them as if she’s not there. How would you feel if she did this to you? Invisible? Make sure you pay attention to her when you’re with your friends. Think about it – she’s a friend too. Girlfriend. If you’re with a group of mates, make sure she doesn’t feel left out if she doesn’t know them well. Glance at her every so often just to let her know you know she’s still there, or offer a genuine smile.
  11. Become friends with her friends. It gives you more things in common with your girl. Eventually, her friends will love you, and that’s a definite turn-on for your girlfriend.
  12. Make a good impression on her parents. Even if you don’t particularly like them, they can be your greatest allies in the long run.
  13. BE THOUGHTFUL. The small things matter the most. Be a gentleman; hold doors open for her, be polite and be helpful. Ask her if she’s cold when it’s cold out; have a jacket or a sweater handy so you can give it to her. When she isn’t feeling well, or home sick; bring her some soup, hot tea or flowers. Hold her hand at the movies or when you’re walking. Get her something just because. Make her happy by buying her little gifts. Small things like a single flower or a bag of her favourite candy or a chocolate bar will go a long way. Girls love that.
  14. Remember important dates. This is a big deal with women. Birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones are all opportunities to show her how special she is to you. When it’s her birthday, bring her breakfast in bed and some flowers. When it’s your anniversary, book something special for you both to let her know how much you appreciate and love her. Remember that women have the idea of being spoiled on these occasions embedded into their psyche from the media. Rose petals on your bed, dinner at a beautiful restaurant – she will have some expectations, and if she is realistic she will not expect much.
  15. Remember what she likes and dislikes. How does she like her eggs cooked? What is her favorite flower? Is she a morning person? She will be very impressed that you have been paying attention. Be thoughtful.
  16. Touch her regularly. Even the slightest touch can make a woman feel special. Hold her hand, give her a hug or gently touch her face–these gestures will all make her feel protected and loved.
  17. Write her love notes. They don’t have to be long, mushy and poetic if you’re not the type. But try to make them cute and show her that you care. This is a great way to be romantic. Tell her that your lucky that you found her. She loves it when you say it. Just be sure you mean it.
  18. Every woman loves a bit of alone time with her partner. Book a whole day for the two of you to be alone. Watch a movie at home, massage her back, snuggle and be intimate. She will love you for it.
  19. Share your everyday events and thoughts with your girl. Being open and communicative makes her feel like you want her in your life. On the same note, listen to her advice even if you don’t agree. Keep an open ear.
  20. Listen to her. The number one complaint many women have regarding men is that they don’t listen. Even if you’re not particularly interested in what she’s saying, listen, then acknowledge that you were listening. Let her know that you are the one that she can talk to about anything! Be there for her through thick and thin. She will feel comfortable with you and trust you.
  21. Always stand up for her no matter what. It shows her that you are always on her side.
  22. Lastly, if you want her to be yours forever, let her know you’re there for her when she needs, be by her side, and most importantly make her feel loved, special, safe and protected. Your woman wants to be your queen so treat her as such and you’ll have no problem.
  23. If she wants to pay for something, let her.
  24. Make sure you spend enough time with her.


Video


Tips

  • Make sure to remember her birthday, your anniversary and get her nice surprises. If you are forgetful or at a loss for ideas, take a look at the free service:
  • http://www.makeyourgirlfriendhappy.com


Warnings

  • Do not say or do anything that will offend her or hurt her.
  • Whatever you do, never offend her friends.
  • Do not cause an argument that isn’t necessary.
  • Don’t be afraid to give her a little hug any time.
  • Your friends might accuse you of being “whipped”. This probably isn’t true, just ignore them. At the end of the day, you have a beautiful girlfriend who loves you, so who cares?
  • Do not pressure her to have sex with you, if she wants to take it slow. Everything you do from then on will be tainted.
  • Do not text any other girls all the time. This will worry her and make her feel cheated. She’s your girl, you need no others.
  • Do not bring up your ex’s , your girlfriend will feel like shes just of one of your many.


Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Your Girlfriend Happy. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.





Anything for Charity: Bachelorette Date Auction

22 02 2011

If you are in Charlotte, join me on Thursday, Feb. 24th @ 935”s Red Room for the “Best Bachelorette Auction Ever 2011″ presented by www.metroproponent.com.  Free Food, Drinks and Desserts.  Proceeds from this event benefit Youth Affected by Domestic Violence!  Check out the promo video…All of the ladies are fabulous; however, I would really appreciate your bids:-)





Be An Original-Shake Your Thang!

25 10 2010

I’m different.  I’m not a cookie-cutter woman.  I’m an interesting dichotomy–unbelievable emotional strength (I am surprised by little) with a tender sensitivity that screams: “Protect me!”.  I am a romantic, who loves the knight in shining armor, but who is equally comfortably slaying my own dragon if/when the need arises. 

I’m quirky, fiercely loyal to everyone in my circle…my entourage is tight, know and understand this:-). For lack of a better word, I am a Renaissance woman.  I am who I am.  Appreciate it, or get to stepping…but please, let’s not waste each other’s time…

Hope you all enjoy My Monday Anthem:





Intentional Dating: Time to Try Something New

9 09 2010

As we have all heard, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, yet expecting a different result.  Dating is no different. And there is nothing wrong with seeking help sometimes…Dr. Darshana Hawks (known as Dr. Dar ) is a licensed relationship expert and life coach who is holding an online dating course that shows you how to date intentionally.  Don’t let the title scare you away…so click on the flyer, sign up for the class and see what happens.  It can’t hurt.  How much is your happiness worth to you?

Stop Being Single Now: The Stop Being Single Now course focuses on helping you become ready for and attract your soul mate. You will be guided through the important steps of learning the skills and tools needed to find your life partner and create a successful and fulfilling committed relationship. Being clear about who you are along with what you want and need to be happy and fulfilled is the key to finding the love of your life. This eight-week workshop runs Saturdays, September 11 through October 30, 2010 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. E.S.T.





My Soundtrack…

26 08 2010

I love Mary J. Blige…her music reminds me why I love being such an unpredictable, passionate, over the top romantic…the lyrics of this song truly epitomizes how l love to  feel when I am in a relationship…Just thought I’d share:





Small Talk? What The…

5 08 2010

I have taken the first step…I’m actually going on a date (yes, miracles do happen).  What does this mean for me exactly?  It means that I have completely and utterly forgotten the art of small talk.  I am so used to being in a business, networking  state of mind  that I literally forgotten how to conduct that “getting to know you” conversation.  On a serious tip, I haven’t had a date or conversation with a guy that was completely new to me in a very long time (no need to say how long).  Most of the gentlemen I deal with I have known from various social or business circles prior to us going out. 

So in preparation of my “date,” I did what every girl does…I started googling tips and best practices (Yes, I am a nerd).  And as a result, I found the most hilarious “how-to” dating video.  Please watch and comment.  And don’t worry, I will keep you all posted on the date…as if I could keep it to myself, lol. 





Bookshelf: His Ingredient Label

26 07 2010

So along with my own personal thoughts about this crazy thing we call dating, I also like to introduce my readers (all three of y’all, lol) to resources that can assist and point us single gals (and guys) in the right direction.  Author and Healthy Relationship Activist Jennifer Tardy has written a great book to help us recognize the “junk”  in men we are date and/or are attracted to…

About Jennifer Tardy & Her Debut Book His Ingredient Label: A Woman’s Guide to Recognizing A Junk Food Man 

As a former native of Hurt, Virginia, J. M. Tardy grew up like any small-town girl. Curious and insightful, she has always been very curious about the big world around her. She graduated from Gretna High School and then went on to receive both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Virginia Tech, in Blacksburg, Virginia. She currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she works in the nuclear industry as a human resources professional. As an HR professional, her research has long been in understanding the behaviors of adults in the workplace. She also sources and attracts the best and the brightest talent. Her next goal is to further her behavioral research while attaining her Ph.D.

It wasn’t until she realized that many of the single women that she knew seemed to be asking the same relationship questions, going through the same experiences, and justifying their actions with the same reasoning that she was able to make sense out of her own life experiences. It wasn’t until recently that she even knew what her gift was: encouraging healthy relationships and healing broken hearts.

Her books stem from her personal research and the stories told by others. She wants each volume to grow as she grows and experiences new challenges in life. She knew that she had found the secret to healing a broken heart, but didn’t believe it was fair to just share this information with her girlfriends; she wants to share it with the world; and with this collection of books, she is sharing it with you. Visit her online at www.JenniferTardy.com.

Current Project:  His Ingredient Label: A Woman’s Guide to Recognizing a Junk Food Man

 

His Ingredient Label shows you how men are like foods to which you can become addicted if you don’t control yourself. It helps you to recognize how your own decision-making can be the first step to a healthier relationship, and it demonstrates how to recognize the true character of a man by investigating what he is made of.  This is the first volume in the Forever Tardy, but Never Late Collection.

To purchase your copy, click here





Let’s Talk About It…

17 05 2010

Photo Credit: www.myhealth.gov

I really amuse myself sometimes.  I haven’t updated this blog in eons, and what is my first topic of conversation after millions of years (well, one year), you guessed it–SEX.  I was thinking about the implications of pre-marital sex as well as sex outside the confines of a committed relationship, and I stumbled upon this article: Speaking Up About Sex.  I must say, it gave one of the best definitions of sex that I have ever read:

“More than touching between two people, sex is a physical manifestation of an emotional event—entering into the inner recesses of another’s soul and accepting the enter-er into yours. In cases of abuse, sex feels violating for exactly this reason. It’s an emotional invasion expressed through physical contact.”

The author goes on to explain the reason why sex outside of marriage can be so damaging:

“Sex within marriage offers a mutual, respectful sharing that symbolizes love—an invitation and an acceptance to permanently participate in each other’s whole personhood. It plays a key role in God’s plan for married unity. Sex outside marriage results in eventual pain because that “invitation” will ultimately be returned to sender. The acceptance note receives a “decline” in response. A blended soul rips apart, back into two pieces.”

It’s definitely a strong argument against pre-marital relations for sure…but what about those who don’t believe in the sanctity of modern marriage (have you read about the divorce rate? Astounding)…Does this explanation of sex not extend to those in committed relationships?  The black and white answer is no, not by Biblical definitions…the grayish answer–depends on what you believe. 

I’m still forming my opinion.  I know right from wrong, and all that jazz, but isn’t the road to enlightenment paved with questions and concerns regarding “group think” and “common thought?”   Or maybe I’m just trying to find justification for doing something that feels good, but may not be good for me.  Or maybe, I just wanted to talk about sex for my first blog entry in more than  a year…yeah, that’s it.





Keeping Warm

6 01 2009

Screw it, I’ll just give up dating and get a Snuggie. At least it will consistently keep me warm and be there whenever I need it, lol.








Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 8,155 other followers