A and A

Visit the NEW ARTSY & AMBITIOUS TODAY!!!

2010-11-03T14:36:00.003-04:00

www.artsyandambitious.com

ArtsyandAmbitious.com IS HERE

2010-10-28T14:36:00.002-04:00

Hey Beautiful Humans,

So guess what? I have FINALLY launched the new Artsy & Ambitious! I think it's a little cleaner than this site and hopefully a little more entertaining too.

I'd like to thank every single person who has joined my blog and taken the time to read my ramblings. It truly means A LOT!!!

So when you get a minute, check out my new blog and let me know what you think. :)

Much love for the last time on this page,
-Victoria

New Site Coming Soon: Top 5 Favorite A&A Posts

2010-10-26T15:50:00.004-04:00

Hey all,

It's been a while huh? I've been all over the place. Had my share of good days and bad. It took me about three months longer than planned, but I'm almost finished redesigning my NEW Artsy & Ambitious blog site. It'll be up in a couple days, but for now I'd like to share my TOP 5 A&A BLOG POSTS. Hope you enjoy.

5. Blessings in Disguise
Everybody loves a quotable.

4. Feminista in the Building
Check out my guest post on The Feminista Files, a blog by author Erica Kennedy.

3. Peaks and Valleys
We all go through ups and downs. Let's celebrate the ups.

2. Reunited and it Feels So...
I've decided to find my biological father. Here's the backstory.

1. Just Decide
Meet my grandmother, Louise Catherine. If she can do it, anybody can.

Much love,
-V.D.

Still Working...

2010-06-14T18:09:00.000-04:00

WHEW!

Re-designing this blog has been more work than I was originally expecting. But I want it to be good, so I'd rather take a little tiny bit longer and get my re-launch right the first time. So let's just say that the new Artsy & Ambitious is Coming Soon. :)

Thanks to all new and old followers as well. I appreciate your support. Hope what I finally present at least piques your interest.

And in the meantime, I'll try to visit as many of your sites and blogs as possible. Everyone is doing such interesting things. I likes!

Much love,
-V.D.

GUESS WHAT? New Site Coming Soon!

2010-05-06T16:22:00.008-04:00

Hey all,

So I've been MIA on the blogosphere for a few weeks (sorry). To make a long story short, your girl has been B-U-S-Y. From putting out family fires, to prioritizing my shaky health, to stepping up my professional game, I've been running, jumping, hurling and sprinting in a million different directions.

Anywho... last week I perused my page and realized that (drumroll please) IT'S TIME FOR AN A&A MAKE-OVER!!! I'm keeping the blog's theme the same, but the posts will be better organized. I'm changing the site's overall look too. Fun stuff. I'm excited!

So thanks to all visitors and followers of

Artsy & Ambitious.

It means a lot. It really does.

Much love,

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Writing Prompts From Reality (#5)

2010-04-20T14:16:00.004-04:00

(because reality makes great art)

FROM THE HEADLINES...

(and into your next great work of art)

It's that time again. Writers, poets and all other artsy folk, see what ideas you can drum up from these current news titles. This is a great exercise if you are creatively blocked or are looking for new assignments for your writer's group. It's a nice little warm up too. Try it!

And don't forget to check out my last set of creative springboards. ENJOY!

Find any good headlines you'd like to share?

What ideas did you generate

from the above titles?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Melee on Mute

2010-04-19T09:00:00.009-04:00

(starting the week w/ a positive mind)

MELEE ON MUTE

(silencing negativity & giving voice to peace)

The past few weeks have been a challenge to say the least. At first everything was going well. I was writing lots, exercising regularly and eating healthy foods. My relationships, both personal and professional were in rock solid condition. And I felt as if I was getting closer to reaching my goals each day. Then one Saturday morning I received a hysterical phone call from a close relative. I'm not ready to divulge the specifics to the blogosphere just yet, but know that the news was devastating. Suddenly my family was in crisis and a near melee involving a living room of shattered glass, a loaded gun and police intervention ensued. Much like any daytime soap opera, sex, lies and betrayal were involved. By the evening, we all emerged from the drama physically unscathed, but my family and I are still busy licking our emotional wounds.

Ever since the brouhaha I've had a hard time concentrating on just about EVERYTHING. I've slept too little. I've slept too much. I've written about twenty words TOTAL over the past two weeks. My blissful routine of good health, creativity and productivity has been grossly disrupted. The salads, fresh fruit and water I'd been consuming were quickly replaced with frozen pizza and lots of Red Bull. Not good. Not good at all.

However on Sunday I finally realized that I needed to regroup. I picked myself up and walked out my stress on the treadmill. I found a quiet place to write, spent the day people-watching and brainstormed a few new short story ideas. I threw away the Red Bull and frozen dinners and restocked my refrigerator with healthier foods. That evening, I took a long hot shower. I relaxed in my apartment wearing my plush terry robe and soothing H2O Plus facial mask. I calmed my nerves with a little Maxwell and Goapele. And most importantly I got down on my knees and prayed for clarity and strength through this difficult time in my life. And through God, I am learning how to support my loved ones without sacrificing my own peace, sanity, happiness and success. It's a tricky balancing act, but I have faith that it can be done. And for that I am grateful!

How do you combat negativity in your life?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Moving On

2010-03-29T04:42:00.004-04:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

MOVING ON

(one way of surmounting small hurdles)

This ever happen to you?

A few days ago I received some good news regarding a short story I'd written. Certain that he'd be happy for me, I called an old friend to share the details of my recent win. But to my surprise said friend was less than enthused by my call and instead proceeded to belittle my accomplishments. Rather than acknowledge that my hard work, minimal sleep and talent earned me my props, he instead attributed my victory to mere good luck. This supposed friend then continued to diminish my talents by suggesting that my writing was inferior in comparison to established artists/writers. Wow! Needless to say, I was shocked, especially since I'd taken him out to dinner only weeks earlier to celebrate his recent job promotion. I ended the conversation deeply hurt, unsure of our friendship and stung by his inexplicably negative vibes. Didn't see that one coming.

Still reeling I mentioned the incident to a neutral/unbiased associate later that evening. His advice: "Write down whatever is bothering you and then throw it away." In other words, acknowledge the problem and all the feelings that surround it, then let it go.

PERFECT!!!

Of course it isn't an all encompassing fool proof solution. But I tried it and surprisingly it does take the edge off. So the next time negativity threatens to dampen your spirits, send it straight to the dumps where it belongs and move on.

And thank you to the person who lent me an ear.

You know who you are.

Much love,
-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: I'm No Oprah But...

2010-03-24T10:00:00.009-04:00

(fun stuff to get you thru the week)

I'M NO OPRAH BUT...

(these are a few of my favorite things)

1). NOTEBOOKS & JOURNALS

It is probably my dorkiest habit aside from watching LOST. But I just love notebooks and journals. Give me a nice leatherbound journal or a classic Moleskine and I'm golden.

2). ART HOUSE LOVE STORIES

I've never been one for chick flicks and sappy romantic comedies. But I absolutely love these films. Somehow independent, often quirky filmmakers manage to retell the classic boy meets girl tale in the most unique, unconventional and unpredictable of styles.

Amelie

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

500 Days of Summer

Me You & Everyone We Know

3). ALL THINGS DAVE EGGERS

As an aspiring writer, I am in awe of author Dave Eggers' inumerable accomplishments and awards. Not only has he published several successful novels and non-fiction works, he has also been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. Eggers is also the founder of the independent publishing house, McSweeney's and the pro-literacy non-profit 826 National. Will I ever arrive at such success in my own career? I can only hope... and work hard too.

Dave Eggers

McSweeney's

What Is the What

Zeitoun

4). AFRICAN-AMERICAN SATIRE

Satire is my favorite of all comedic forms. It mirrors society with humor, pokes fun at convention and the established norm and calls the powers that be to task. Black satire in particular offers the rare opportunity to point out such issues as racism, differences between cultures, long-held stereotypes as well as many other challenges/obstacles specific to African-Americans. Artists such as Robert Townsend, Spike Lee and George Wolfe, Paul Beatty and George S. Schuyler are among the masters of this art form.

Bamboozled

Hollywood Shuffle

5). ETSY

Goodbye Ebay. Hello Etsy! Once upon a time I was an ebay junkie both as a buyer and seller. That is until I stumbled upon Etsy's website in search of a very specific type of beaded earring (found it!). Etsy is an online store in which handmade goods are sold by individual sellers, craftsman and artisans. You can buy anything from organic soap to vintage clothing to one of a kind jewelry. Fun site for artsy types!

So check out the links to my favorite artsy things & ENJOY!

Have a favorite something to share?

Do tell.

Much love,

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Tyler Perry Reveals "For Colored Girls..." Cast

2010-03-23T17:48:00.010-04:00

(A&E news and events)

FOR COLORED GIRLS CAST REVEALED

(but if I had my way...)

A few months ago playwright, director, producer and actor extraordinaire, Tyler Perry announced that he would be directing the film adaptation of Ntozake Shange's celebrated stage play/choreopoem, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf. (Click HERE for initial love/hate reactions at The Root).

Today Perry and company have revealed the film's all star cast (scheduled for release in January 2011). I don't know exactly what role each actress will play, but the "colored girls" signed-on thus far include, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Whoopi Goldberg, Phylicia Rashad, Jurnee Smollett, Kimberly Elise, Kerry Washington and Macy Gray. Hmmm.

I'm definitely not thrilled by all selected to star in the adaptation. I could do without the humdrum acting talents of Jackson, Carey and Gray, for example. But veterans Goldberg and Rashad are must-haves. I also have faith that Elise and Washington as well as rising star, Jurnee Smollett will deliver the goods. Wow I really wish I had a say (foot in door any day now). Because if divvying out the coveted roles was my gig, my all star cast of "unnamed ladies" would include Nbushe Wright, Nicole Beharie, Aunjanue Ellis and most definitely Miss Gabby Sidibe (seriously, why is she not in this film?).

Likewise the lesser known, yet equally equipped Nzingha Stewart would direct the movie. Mara Brock Akil would produce. Or maybe Julie Dash. Her legendary epic, Daughters of the Dust more than qualifies her for a spot on this project. After all For Colored Girls... is essentially about Black womanhood, self-discovery, female empowerment, etc., so hiring a female crew seems the natural choice and beyond apropos. But I get it. Nobody knows Stewart. Perry has proven he can fill the seats. Hollywood is still Hollywood.

I just hope that Tyler Perry will rise above his Madea pistol wielding nonsense and deliver a cinematic gem. And I also hope the film will broaden Shange's fanbase. It happened for Sapphire after all. Guess we'll find out soon enough.

Do you think Tyler Perry should direct
For Colored Girls... ?

Who would you cast for the film?

Should the play even be adapted at all?

Your thoughts?

Much love,

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: A&A Oscar Picks

2010-03-03T01:30:00.009-05:00

(random fun stuff to get you over hump day)

WEDNESDAY WILD CARD

(my picks for the 82nd Annual

Academy Awards)

I can't wait to see the Academy Awards this Sunday. I've made it a point to see nearly all of the films nominated in the major categories. Although not all of my picks are predicted to win, here's who I hope will go home with the most handsome man in Hollywood, Mr. Oscar himself.

For a list of writers nominated in the Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Screenplay categories and for the complete list of nominees, click HERE.

WHO DO YOU WANT TO WIN

THE ACADEMY AWARD?

Much love,
-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Writing Prompts from Reality (#4)

2010-03-02T15:36:00.003-05:00

(because reality makes great art)

FROM THE HEADLINES

(and into your next great work of art)

It's that time again. Writers, poets and all other artsy folk, see what ideas you can drum up from these current news titles. This is a great exercise if you are creatively blocked or are looking for new assignments for your writer's group. I've been practicing this exercise for years! Try it!

And don't forget to check out my last set of creative springboards. ENJOY!

Find any good headlines you'd like to share?

What ideas did you generate

from the above titles?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: MARCHing into Spring

2010-03-01T02:31:00.013-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

MARCHing INTO SPRING

(taking concrete steps toward a

beautiful new season)

No offense to all the Pisces and Aries out there, but to me, the month of March is just a means to an end. It's the last blasted month of frigid weather, snow and big, bulky, uncomfortable coats, before glorious springtime arrives. Like everyone else, I am looking forward to warmer temperatures, outdoor leisure and the all around good feeling that the impending season evokes. Therefore I typically use the month of March to tie up loose ends, set new goals and prepare for April, May and all the other fun months just around the corner.

Here are a few items from my March "To Do" list

(in no particular order):

1). Exercise regularly (going to the gym 4 to 5 days a week)
2). Try healthier recipes from Tosca Reno's Eat Clean Diet and Tal Ronnen's, The Conscious Cook.
3). Learn a new skill such as Spanish, Sign-Language or the piano
4). Register for a class at The Writer's Center (DEFINITELY check it out if you're a writer and DMV resident!)
5). Plan a few vacations (maybe a couple mini-outings and one big trip)
6). Explore volunteer opportunities (considering becoming an adult literacy tutor)
7). Continue researching the whereabouts of my biological father
8). Complete a rough draft of my spec script
9). Devote more time to prayer, meditation and spiritual enrichment
10). Make an effort to meet new people

***

As you can see, I've got a lot of work to do. I'll keep you posted on my progress. In the meantime, I hope that you too are hard at work setting and reaching your goals. I wish you the best on your journey toward self-fulfillment, improvement and personal growth as well. With a new, beautiful season fast approaching, this is the perfect time to start (or continue) becoming a better you.

Let's do this!

Much love,
-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Take A Little Detour

2010-02-23T15:19:00.004-05:00

(because reality makes great art)

HOW ONE SMALL DETOUR...

(is improving my first love, writing)

I wrote an entry last month entitled "Get Ballsy, Get Unblocked," about exploring new ways to overcome artistic blocks and setbacks. I've since kept up the habit of trying different activities to help generate new story ideas and improve existing ones. Most recently I dug out my old Minolta 35mm camera and went wandering around looking for interesting stuff to photograph. I even developed the pictures myself. Yes, I went very old school...used a friend's makeshift dark room and everything. It was fun! Take a look.

Abandoned Glendale Hospital
The pics of the hospital have definitely prompted a few short story ideas. My friend and I were too chicken to actually go into any of the buildings. It was creepy. Not to mention, we were already trespassing.

The Washington National Cathedral

It's just a very beautiful, meditative and peaceful place to visit. Being there made me think less about plot and structure and more about how to create more complex, three dimensional characters. Maybe a protagonist warring with some complicated moral issue?

Just Eggs
I was playing around with contrast. My friend thought they were teeth. Ha! : ) Kinda reminds me to think outside of the box a little. Experiment in other words.

What do you do to

overcome creative blocks?

Much love,

-V.D.

Free Will Friday: Weekend Homework

2010-02-19T15:14:00.018-05:00

(choosing to be victors vs. victims)

YOUR ASSIGNMENT...

(should you choose to accept it)

We all need a little reminder every now and then.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Much love,

-V.D.

Think Twice Thursday: My Art, My Messenger

2010-02-18T17:01:00.006-05:00

(examining the past to understand the present)

ART AS REVELATION

(a dream, a poem, a message)

This morning I woke up, grabbed the pen and paper I keep next to my bed and immediately jotted down the tanka below. The poem "came to me" in a dream last night. In said dream, my mother was digging a hole in which to bury the following items: my journal, my birth certificate, a photo album and unknown internal organs kept within a jar of formaldehyde (uterus maybe?). I tried to stop her, but I was too weak (or she was too strong) to wrestle the shovel from her hands. I tried to yell, but discovered I could not speak. It felt as if I was suffocating. That is when I opened my eyes, sat up and out came...

Kind of a morose way to start the day I know. But if you regularly read my blog or follow my tweets, then you may remember that I am in the process of locating the person for whom this poem is undoubtedly intended, my father. As discussed in a prior entry, I have never met him. My family including my mother, refuses to divulge the details of his life, past or present. However I have decided to secretly track him down. And yesterday I began my search by contacting the International Soundex Reunion Registry. Step ONE.

So more than likely, my dream and the poem are some small manifestation of all the anxiety, anger, fear, confusion and bitterness that I feel both toward the mother I know and the father I don't. It is as if my subconscious mind somehow climbed to the forefront to warn me, to remind me to proceed with extreme caution. I am appreciative of the message. I am grateful for the mediocre art that delivered it.

And I know that I am opening a door.

Much love,

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Designing My Bohemia

2010-02-17T15:16:00.017-05:00

(extra stuff you might like)

MY BOHEMIAN HAVEN
(creating a space that reflects my best self)

So a few weeks ago, I stood in the doorway of my apartment and realized that I haven't been living in the present at all. In the four years since I first signed my lease, I've spent maybe a total of ten minutes furnishing and decorating my space. It's pretty much all cheap Ikea furniture and bare walls. Boring? Yes! Depressing even. Until now, I've been reluctant to invest much time, energy and money on sprucing things up because I plan to relocate within the next two years. Of course, it is good that I'm focusing on the future, but now whenever I look at my sparse, asylum-esque unit, I know for sure that I need to learn to enjoy the here and now as well.

Therefore I've decided to give my cute little one-bedroom a mini make-over! I want it to reveal who I am today and who I hope to become. I want it to reflect my passions and interests (theatre, art, African-American culture, film, etc.). I want it to be an inviting and comfortable space for myself, friends and family. Most importantly I want it to be an inspiring setting in which to write and create. I want a little artsy, hippie chick, bachelorette pad! I have A LOT of work to do.

So far I've made a few runs to Ikea and Pier One and have purchased some prints, paintings on canvas, picture frames and a few other misc. items.

I've been getting great ideas from sites like Apartment Therapy too. Check out their post on piling rugs (either you'll love it or you'll hate it).

(courtesy of Apartment Therapy)

I also have a great collection of playbills, old Life and Time magazines, album covers, ticket stubs, etc. that I plan to somehow turn into wall art. Decoupage maybe? We'll see.

So far this project has been surprisingly fun. It has even HELPED ME TO WRITE. As I watch my apartment gradually become the sanctuary I've always wanted, more and more story ideas are beginning to surface. Guess it's true that where you create impacts what you create!

Depending on the end result,
I may or may not post before and after pics.

Wish me luck!

Much love,
-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: The Snow Storm - Day 6

2010-02-10T22:00:00.006-05:00

(extra stuff that's on my mind)

Like most other Mid-Atlantic residents, I've been stuck at home since Friday because of the snow storm. The first few days were glorious...a city in white, snowball fights, a weekend in bed, sipping hot chocolate, watching movies, etc. But today, ugh...the wretched cabin fever has taken hold. I've been buried under this cold, icy stuff for six days. I'm itching to go out ANYWHERE. My cats are getting on my nerves (feel free to adopt them if you'd like). And I'm having a VERY tough time sitting still. I know. I know. I'm being a big baby. Sigh.

However, I am more often than not, an optimist. That said, I'll spend the rest of this post focusing on the highlights of my last few days spent with good ol' Frosty.

DAY SIX: THE STORM

(reflections after six days of being snowed in)

I took these pictures from my parking lot just before I started shoveling my car out of nearly 20 inches of snow. It might have been cold, wet and icy outside, but it was also astoundingly beautiful.

***

A lot of my free time has been spent online, namely ITUNES. I purchased a lot of great music including Sade's new album, Soldier of Love. LOVE IT! My favorite song so far is "Morning Bird." The lyrics are so moving, "If you set me free, I will not run..." Powerful. If she tours again, I AM THERE!

***

I have been working on a short story for about three weeks. This snow storm has given me some much needed time to work on it. The past six days at home have even allowed me to complete a rough draft. YAY! I will be making final edits over the next few days. The story is tentatively entitled, "Dig." Will post excerpts very soon.

***

Hmm, what else did I do? I ordered a few new books from Amazon including Patti Smith's memoir, Just Kids. Can't wait for them to arrive! I worked on a few projects around my place and stole a few decorating tips from Apartment Therapy. I also spoke to a few friends I haven't talked to in months, experimented on my hair, did a ton of laundry and tried a new Sesame Grilled Asparagus recipe. It was delicious. Try it.

Guess it hasn't been so bad after all.

Much love,

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Divine Display, A Poem

2010-02-03T00:45:00.131-05:00

(extra stuff you might find interesting)

BACKSTORY:
In 1810, South African slave, Saartijie Baartman, was convinced by English ship doctor, William Dunlop to travel with him to Europe to pursue a better life. Baartman joined Dunlop, but was instead put on exhibition as part of a traveling circus throughout England and Paris where she was eventually given the derogatory title "Hottentot Venus." Considered a sexual oddity by Europeans for her African features, wider hips and broader physique, Baartman was displayed alongside "freaks" and animals until roughly 1815. After enduring years of humiliation and abuse, Baartman died shortly thereafter in 1816.

That same year the Musee de l'Homme in Paris removed Baartman's skeleton, brain and genitalia and displayed them at the museum until 1985. In 2002 after much negotiating with the French government, South African authorities returned Baartman's remains to Cape Town where she was finally granted a proper burial.

Moved by Saartjie Baartman's tragic life, I wrote the poem below for her. Although centuries old, her story speaks to the current abuse and objectification of women worldwide. This piece also seems apropros as it is none other than Black History Month. Hope you enjoy!

DIVINE DISPLAY, A POEM

(For the beautiful Saartjie Baartman)

(A caricature of Baartman drawn in the early 19th century)

Saartjie was born beautiful,

Her skin a soft and sepia brown

Deepened under the Capetown shining sun.

A life barely begun,

She was one spirit in a shanty

Near the shore

When she left the land that bore her.

Poor woman of the continent

Of her ancestral Africa

Once held the marrow of her people

In her distinctive native tongue

She was sweet and young

Her trusting heart was overflowing in mounds

Her breasts and buttocks

Full, round, curved, thick and strong

Her stride was long and

There was nothing grotesque or wrong

In the way she held her

Moving, swaying backside so proud

Though they came and

They laughed out loud at her,

At Saartjie's brown, generous

Swinging hips,

Poked and prodded at her

Precious, tender lips.

They came to gawk and to stare

With their skin so white and so fair at her.

With their bones less dense

To hold less weight upon their bodies,

Saartjie was their spectacle and their prey,

The subject of their morbid desires,

She was swooned, swindled,

Lured by liars.

Saartjie,

With that flesh so full and

So big and so round

Was to be bound,

Caged, changed, estranged

From her very soul and more

Called her their little circus whore

Tore and split and savaged

Her Godly mind and uterus

Sliced the delicate folds

Between her thighs

Pried apart what was inside

Assaulted everything inside

Poor Saartjie abandoned of her pride

Died, surely and left the land

With only the memory of her solid,

Strong and saintly sway.

To learn more about Saartjie Baartman's story

visit the South African Government website.

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Tickled Pink

2010-02-01T14:27:00.005-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

TICKLED PINK

Pink's performance at the 2010 Grammys was so beautiful I just had to post it here. I was literally in awe of not only Pink's voice, but the melody and lyrics of the song, "Glitter in the Air." Not to mention, I applaud Pink for her physical strength and fearlessness in performing the acrobatic aspect of the performance. After seeing this I was inspired to at least attempt to create something special. Maybe you'll feel the same way. Enjoy!

FYI: Click "Glitter in the Air" above for song lyrics.

What did you think of Pink's performance?

Much love,
-V.D.

Monday Meditation: "The Voice" by Shel Silverstein

2010-01-25T14:30:00.008-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

Here is a simple piece written by famed children's author and one of my favorite poets, Shel Silverstein. Enjoy!

(click to enlarge)

^ Poem first published in Falling Up ^

HarperCollinsPublishers

Originally Published in 1996

More about Shel Silverstein & his work at

http://www.shelsilverstein.com/

Much love,
-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Before Precious Came The Woodsman

2010-01-20T16:57:00.004-05:00

(random stuff to get you thru the week)

BEFORE PRECIOUS

CAME THE WOODSMAN

With several award-winning movies under his belt, producer and director Lee Daniels is fast becoming the king of gritty, hard-hitting independent cinema. That said, a few years ago, Daniels produced a brilliant and moving film called The Woodsman starring Kevin Bacon. I'm disappointed that the movie flew a little under the radar because it deserves as much recognition and just as many accolades as Daniels' other hits, Monster's Ball and Precious. Check it out!

SYNOPSIS IN BRIEF:

Walter (played by Kevin Bacon) is an ex-convict struggling to start a new life back home after serving twelve years in prison. See trailer below.

(video courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes)

While Precious is told from the point of view of the victim, The Woodsman is uniquely told from the perspective of the criminal and victimizer. It is one of my favorite movies and Kevin Bacon does an outstanding job of portraying a character whom you will loathe, pity, despise and empathize with all at once. Genius! Nicole Kassell directs. Lee Daniels produces. The film also stars Kyra Sedgwick, Mos Def, Eve, Benjamin Bratt and David Alan Grier.

Rent it. Buy it. Watch it.

Let me know what you think.

If you've already seen it,

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Much love,

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Writing Prompts from Reality (3rd Edition)

2010-01-19T14:37:00.011-05:00

(because reality makes great art)

FROM THE HEADLINES

(and into your next great work of art)

And don't forget to check out my last set of creative springboards.

(click to enlarge)

Find any good headlines you'd like to share?

What ideas did you generate

from the above titles?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Idealism Personified - MLK

2010-01-18T01:34:00.005-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY MLK

(following the lead of an icon & idealist )

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s practice of non-violent resistance demonstrates not only his Christian philosophies, but his idealism. While many other activists and civil rights pioneers throughout history have employed more aggressive and reactive tactics (ie: Malcolm X or the Black Panther Party), King sought freedom and equality through passive and peaceful strategies. Although many African-Americans initially doubted King's vision and thought him impractical and even naive in his interactions with a notoriously racist American government, he soon proved all doubters and skeptics wrong. Thus the realization of an idealist's famous DREAM.

We are forever indebted to martyr, iconoclast, hero and genius, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Therefore let's follow MLK's lead and pursue our idealistic passions whatever they may be. Through hard work, faith, and discipline, let us pursue our lofty goals and become all that we aspire to be in life. Let's become dedicated teachers, soulful singers, skilled doctors, brilliant lawyers, reknown actors, literary masters, outstanding parents, unrelenting activists, world travelers, transformative healers, godly archetypes and all else possible in this massive, astoundingly beautiful Earth.

IDEALISM IS THE WAY.

Further Resources:

* The King Center

* SI National Museum of African-American History & Culture

* D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

* Idealist.org

Much love,

-V.D.

Think Twice Thursday: Get Ballsy Get Unblocked

2010-01-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

(catching what you missed the first time around)

REVAMP YOUR REPERTOIRE

(Get Brave, Get Ballsy, Get Unblocked)

A few years ago, I suffered the worst case of writer's block known to man. I'd sit down each day in front of my laptop, grab a Frappuccino, maybe a scone and then...NOTHING. After about eight months of this torturous and unproductive ritual, I was sure my literary career was over before it'd even begun. Then one day I stumbled upon an advertisement by the Washington Studio School promoting their Spring semester. On a whim I decided to check 'em out. Two weeks later there I was standing before my easel, watercolor set and cheap brushes ready to paint some NUDE MODELS!

(not my drawing...will soon post my stuff)

Over the next six weeks I spent my Saturday mornings painting men and women of various ages, races and body types. Some of the models were talkative. Others were reserved. Some remained in mostly stationary positions while a few (who I'll never forget) proved quite limber and flexible. I'll admit, it took me a few sessions to feel comfortable with staring at the bodies of complete strangers, but as I sketched each model, I began to see beyond the nudity. I instead focused on each person's shape, dimension, proportions and even personality. And by the end of six weeks (to my surprise), I'd produced a few worthwhile sketches and the gigantic, hairy, beer belly of our final model bothered me none at all. Most importantly, the experience enabled me to write again.

By spending a little time away from the computer, I was able to return to it with new energy and new ideas. Trying something new (even something as simple as taking a class), helped me to rethink my perspective and fix what wasn't working in my writing. Not to mention new experiences usually translate into new stories, new novels, screenplays, characters, etc. Yes a few of the eccentric models I met have made it into a short story or two.

My point is...I think artists have a tendency to get trapped in our own brains sometimes. We create our own walls and blocks especially if our trade is a solitary one. But the more we open ourselves up to the people and experiences around us, the more we grow as artists. Our stories get stronger. Our music deeper. Our paintings more vibrant. Kinda cliche, but true. So if you are creatively trapped, blocked, stuck or frustrated, try something else for a short while (something unusual, scary, daring, new). Paint nude models or better yet, why not become one? Trust me it will help. And it's so much fun too!

What do you do to

overcome creative blocks?

Much love,

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Ever Heard of Her?

2010-01-13T00:00:00.004-05:00

(just a little something extra you might enjoy)

ZEFERINA

(let one woman's story inspire your own)

History I believe, is one of the best sources of creative material. Whether you write historical fiction or you are seeking ideas for your next short story, novel, painting or photograph, the past is often a beautiful place to start.

A few years ago, I learned about an African woman and revolutionary named Zeferina. Likely born in Nigeria or Benin, Zeferina was enslaved in Bahia, Brazil in the early nineteenth century. A member of the Urubu quilombo (Brazilian settlements inhabited largely by escaped slaves), Zeferina planned a revolt against white slave owners in nearby Salvador on Christmas Day 1826. However on December 16th an attack began between white farmers and escaped slaves who were bringing food to the Urubu quilombo. Over the next few days, slave hunters and soldiers continued to attack the escaped slave community. Armed with only a bow and arrows, Zeferina led her community in a brave yet brutally disastrous counterattack (five years before Nat Turner's legendary fight). Nearly the entire Urubu quilombo population was massacred and the ten surviving slaves including Zeferina were captured and sentenced to prison and hard labor. Nonetheless Zeferina's actions have become symbolic of the martyrdom, bravery and valor that countless enslaved Africans exhibited in their quest for freedom in Brazil.

FURTHER READING/RESOURCES:

BOOKS:
Africana: The Encyclopedia of the African & African American Experience
Kwame Anthony Appiah and Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Editors
Publication Date: November 3, 1999

WEB:
The National Visionary Leadership Project
The History Makers
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Much love,
-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Find A Way

2010-01-11T00:40:00.008-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

FIND A WAY

(...to live your dreams)

Yesterday was my birthday. Yay life! I'm still here! It was a great day in case you're wondering. I spent most of it eating (try waffle sandwiches, they're delicious) and watching movies (Nine, It's Complicated and Up in the Air). But more importantly, I spent the day thinking about my future. Birthdays make me very pensive.

I realized that my biggest goals are to just keep trying, to keep doing the things that make me happy, to keep believing in myself and to keep working toward my goals however lofty they may be. That said, I will someday publish a novel. I will drop fifteen pounds this year. I will eventually relocate to a new town that feels more like my artistic home. And I will someday see the world (esp. Egypt & Brazil).

I don't know exactly how or when I will achieve said dreams, but I will ultimately find a way. I fully expect to "fall off of the horse" at least a dozen more times in the process, but I'll get there.

Same goes for you comrades.

Whatever "it" is that you want to do in life,

FIND A WAY.

Much love,
-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: This Emotional Life

2010-01-05T11:00:00.004-05:00

(because reality makes great art)

For the past two nights I have been glued to the tv watching an absolutely stellar documentary on PBS called This Emotional Life. If you are at all curious about human behavior and emotion please take a look at this program. If you are someone trying to understand your own thoughts and feelings or are simply trying to make sense of the world around you, you will appreciate this series. And if you are an artist or writer looking to give your characters and stories greater dimension you will find this documentary an invaluable resource. Enjoy!

From MPT.org:

THIS EMOTIONAL LIFE is "a three-part series that takes viewers on an in-depth tour of the science of human emotions in an effort to truly understand what makes us tick. Every day, it seems, some new study reveals a previously hidden epidemic of depression, anxiety or other psychological problem. At the root of the confusion lie three key questions: what is biological, what is cultural and what can we do when things go wrong? After centuries of assuming that we humans, with our mysterious minds and messy emotions, were just not fit subjects for study, science has developed some startling insights into human nature. Using the latest cutting edge research from neuroscience, startling observations from social science and experts in psychology, THIS EMOTIONAL LIFE explores the biological need for social relationships, how to manage negative feelings and the search for greater happiness, unveiling a new understanding of what it means to be human."

SERIES EPISODES:

EPISODE ONE: FAMILY, FRIENDS & LOVERS

Explores the importance of relationships and why they are central to emotional well-being

TOPICS DISCUSSED INCLUDE:

Adolescence, Attachment, Bullying, Grief & Loss, Postpartum Mood Disorders & Intimate Relationships.

EPISODE TWO: FACING OUR FEARS

How negative emotions such as anger, sadness and fear are important but may require management

TOPICS DISCUSSED INCLUDE:

Addiction, Anger, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Stress and Anxiety & Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

EPISODE THREE: RETHINKING HAPPINESS

What is happiness, why is it important and how can we attain more of it?

TOPICS DISCUSSED INCLUDE:

Altruism, Humor, Creativity & Flow, Forgiveness, Connecting with Others, Resilience, Meditation & Happiness.

***

Visit http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife for local listings.

It's PBS so chances are it will air at least 10 more times.

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Try Try Again

2010-01-04T00:24:00.003-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

Through regular exercise and clean eating

Through fellowship and giving

Through prayer and art

I am not ready to give up on myself just yet.

All I (we) can do is keep going and

have faith that one day it'll all make sense.

Much love,

-V.D.

I Appreciate You Readers!

2009-12-24T02:02:00.003-05:00

Peace and blessings all,

I want every single person who reads my blog to know that I APPRECIATE YOU! I hope this site has been entertaining, inspiring and informative to all who have taken the time to read my thoughts, quotes, poems and more. Your kind words, suggestions and comments have encouraged and motivated me to continue writing. Next week I plan to add two or three quick posts and then it's back to a steady stream of Monday-Friday entries in 2010. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Much love,
-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Trust Your(self) Instinct

2009-12-21T01:56:00.014-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

I used to ignore my inner voice, let something far less wise and learned guide me. Fear perhaps? Loneliness? Depression? Peer pressure? Whatever the culprit, disaster, heartbreak, and unhappiness have always been the inevitable end result. But age and experience have hipped me to the game (do people still say that? lol), made me stronger, wiser, more adept... have reconnected me little by little with God. My internal compass is properly positioned (or at least getting there) and is heading someplace blissful, serene, fulfilling, just plain dope. So from now on I am following it blindly and listening more keenly to my instinct. My inner ally is my new bestie. And thank goodness because he, she, it is a genius.

-Journal Excerpt

^ a poem ^

Have you learned to

trust your inner voice?

If so how? When?

Much love,

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: 5 Favorite (Dysfunctional) Family Films

2009-12-16T16:00:00.018-05:00

(random goodies to get you thru the week)

I don't know about you, but this time of year brings out all the crazy in my family. Of course I appreciate my relatives and the holidays, but I cannot wait for January 2nd 2010 to arrive, so I know that the frenzy is officially over.

In the meantime, I calm myself down by listening to a little Sade, drinking peppermint tea and watching movies about families that are a gazillion times more dysfunctional than mine. :)

Enjoy!

FIVE FAVE

DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILY FILMS
(say that five times fast)

THE ICE STORM (1997)

Adultery, lies, deceit, key parties, moms and daughters who steal and scary, icy electrical storms.

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006)

A road trip in a lemon, a depressed uncle, brooding teenager, a feuding couple, an ornery grandpa, a little Rick James and a sweet little girl stuck in the middle.

RUNNING WITH SCISSORS (2006)

One very confused teenager surviving amidst a group of feisty and colorful misanthropes, agoraphobes, hoarders, misfits and an eccentric psychiatrist with a prescription pad he's not afraid to use.

WAR OF THE ROSES (1989)

The gymnast, the lawyer...they fall in love then fall apart and so does their perfect world, their perfect house and their perfectly resilient chandelier.

MOMMIE DEAREST (1981)

"No more wire hangers!" You know what I'm talking about.

What movie did I miss?

What's your favorite dysfunctional family film?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Lesson in Love

2009-12-14T15:00:00.006-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

PLACING GENTLE REINS

UPON MY HEART

(a short confessional)

I am a bundle of emotion and raw, delicate nerves. In other words, I wear my heart on my sleeve. Good news is, this trait has served me well as a writer and artist. I know how to "go there" when creating emotionally charged scenes, characters, poems, etc. However my "sensibilities" tend to pose problems in my personal life. I do and say what my heart, not my mind, dictates. So I lack an emotional filter and am horrible at keeping my feelings (for better or for worse), to myself. Surprise, surprise complications ensue. But I am learning. And so far I know that temperance is key.

And in case you're wondering, yes this is about a boy. :)

Much love,

-V.D.

A&A Special Edition: 10 Great Gift Ideas For Women

2009-12-11T16:15:00.082-05:00

Since my last few posts have been on the somber side, I decided to get in the holiday spirit and post my very own HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FOR WOMEN! After all, XMAS is only a few weeks away! So if you're still struggling for gift ideas, why not peruse the list below for suggestions? You are bound to find something your wife, girlfriend, best friend or special someone will L-O-V-E.

Don't forget to tell me your FAVORITE GIFT pick by

TAKING THE POLL at the end of this post.

AND ONE MORE THING:

ONE ITEM from this list will be the PRIZE for my

JANUARY 2010 GIVEAWAY. Stay tuned.

10 GREAT GIFTS

ANY LADY WILL LOVE

1). SHARI'S BERRIES - $24.99

Give these to the lady with an irresistible sweet tooth and a love of gourmet desserts. Comes in a variety of spins, toppings and flavors. Delicious.

2). VICTORIA'S SECRET

THE LACIE - 3 for $30.00

Give these classy, sassy, sexy undergarments to the special lady in your life. They are both cute and comfortable. Lots of stretch, support and of course, lace. Can't go wrong with VS.

3). CHANEL No. 5

VELVET MILK BATH - $70.00

Give this to the sophisticated gal who indulges in warm, sudsy bubble baths at the end of a long day. CHANEL is a classic and timeless brand. She'll love it.

4). HUE HD WEBCAM - $49.00

Give this gift to the tech savvy girl who loves to blog, tweet and skype. She'll have tons of fun with this colorful and affordable gadget. Get ready for the live web chat!

5). VICTORIA'S SECRET

PLUSH TERRY ROBE - $59.50

Give this to the woman who loves all things lush, plush and luxurious. She'll be nothing but comfy cozy in this oh so soft knee-length terry robe.

6). APPLE

I POD SHUFFLE - $59.00- $99.00

You can't go wrong with giving an IPOD to just about anyone. Whether at the gym, spa, on the subway or at home on the couch, the gal who gets this gift will put it to good use.

7). BONJOUR

HOT CHOCOLATE MAKER - $25.00

Give this to the woman who loves gadgets, home appliances and stays tuned to HSN. This hot chocolate maker whips up more than just an ordinary cup of cocoa. In addition, this gizmo whips and froths like nobody's business. Fun huh?

8). CAROL'S DAUGHTER

LOVE YOUR FEET GIFT SET - $34.00

Give this to the girl who lives at the day spa. Carol's Daughter is fast becoming a premiere bath and body brand. Not to mention all products are made from pure and natural ingredients. Here's all she'll need to get the perfect pedi!

9). PEPPERMINT AMARYLLIS

BAMBOO GROW BOX - $40.00

Give this to the woman with a green thumb and a love of unique, out-of-the-box gifts. This kit contains everything she'll need to grow her very own Peppermint Amaryllis at home. Made from organic materials too. Sold at Bath and Body Works. Absolutely beautiful!

10). VICTORIA'S SECRET

CONVERTIBLE DRESS - $79.00

Give this to the fashionista who never wears the same thing twice. This "convertible dress" can be worn up to 10 DIFFERENT WAYS! It is also available in 6 different colors. Simply stunning.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Get the Poll Creator Pro widget and many other great free widgets at Widgetbox! Not seeing a widget? (More info)

Much love,

-V.D.

A&A Extras: A Personal Favorite

2009-12-08T03:56:00.022-05:00

(misc. news & musings worth mentioning)

FILLING VOIDS:
THE CONFESSIONAL VERSE

The passage below (published in Birthday Letters by Ted Hughes) is an excerpt from one of my favorite poems, "The Shot." It is written about famed poet and Hughes' first wife, Sylvia Plath.

What I love almost more than the poem itself is how the above lines, when taken out of context, describe the relationships many of us experience with our friends, lovers, husbands, wives, careers, etc. But that's only my interpretation. Just my two cents and a little food for thought.

Have you ever given someone or something in your life

a godlike or undeservedly supreme

position in your life?

Much love,

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Avoid the New Year's Resolution Jinx

2009-12-07T06:30:00.010-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

RETHINKING NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

In my opinion, making a new year's resolution is more often than not, an exercise in procrastination, disappointment and self-defeat. While the intention is to successfully tackle our to-do lists, most of us instead fall victim to what I call the Resolution Jinx; declaring an ambitious set of yearly goals, that yield less than stellar results. That's why I think that the best new year's resolution is to make no resolution at all. The better alternative is to begin taking baby steps toward your dreams today.

It is NOT impossible. Remember we've still got four weeks of 2009 left. That's plenty of time to renew that gym membership, register for a class or ditch the donuts. You can at least begin to honestly access your goals, decide which ones you are willing to work toward right now and prepare realistically for them. If necessary, ask for help in the form of a support group, life coach or trainer. You still have time to get a head start on becoming a better you. Wouldn't you like to enter 2010 with a few small victories already in tow? If so...

Start coming through for yourself RIGHT NOW!

What's one small thing you could do

today to advance your goals?

Recommended reading:

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

Much love,

-V.D.

Free Will Friday: IN with the OLD

2009-12-04T05:10:00.008-05:00

(choosing to be victors vs. victims)

IN WITH THE OLD

(digging deep to find old "new" source material)

Last night I unexpectedly found a few of my old journals and diaries dating back to about 2002. I spent nearly two hours sorting through my rants, thoughts, musings and incoherent stream of consciousness babble. Ever done that?

While many of my entries did leave me feeling more pained than nostalgic, I found the process mostly cathartic. Revelations? I'm over the guy(s) who broke my heart. I am not bitter about what he, she, it did to me years ago. I no longer have an ax to grind. And although I'm still carrying around a few small tragedies and ugly memories in my back pocket, I am no bag lady. I am far from perfect, but I've made some strides. Mmm hmm, pats on the back are in order.

But the best part of digging through the frayed pages and worn leatherbound books was finding all of the old poems, brainstorms, outlines, ideas and unfinished writings contained within. It felt like unearthing buried treasure, like discovering coal halfway to diamondhood. And now that I am older and presumably wiser, I feel ready to creatively tackle many of the issues I unsuccessfully attempted to dissect in my late teens and early twenties. I might not have been able to write that story or poem about my deadbeat dad back then, but maybe I'm ready to do it now. We'll see.

^One of my "lost" poems^

So happy (or maybe relieved) that I didn't discard my little gems. We'll see what manifests.

* Your thoughts?

* Do you keep your old journals, diaries
and/or works-in-progress?

* Any revelations? Do tell!

MUCH LOVE!

-V.D.
(FYI-ARTSY giveaway coming soon)

Wednesday Wild Card: Medicine for Melancholy

2009-12-02T16:02:00.011-05:00

(random stuff to get you through the rest of the week)

MEDICINE FOR MELANCHOLY

(can real love happen after a one night stand?)

So I absolutely love independent movies and art film. Nothing against the mainstream stuff, but sometimes I just want to watch a movie that's not at all formulaic or traditional. I don't want a predictable ending or a high def, high speed chase starring some Hollywood A-lister. Right now at least, I'm in the mood for quirky, uncoventional plot lines, non-traditional casting, unknown actors, a little hand held camera work and lots of grain. In other words, I'm in the mood for an underground film. Matte finish. No gloss.

I think I might've found just the right flick.

A film by Barry Jenkins

Starring Wyatt Cenac and Tracey Heggins

From IFC's site:
Medicine for Melancholy is "a love story of bikes and one-night stands told through two African-American twenty-something's dealing with issues of class, identity, and the evolving conundrum of being a minority in rapidly gentrifying San Francisco-a city with the smallest proportional black population of any other major American city. "

Medicine for Melancholy from strike anywhere on Vimeo.

Looks interesting. Kind of like Knocked Up if Seth Rogen were a slam poet and Katherine Heigl, an aspiring actress living in the Village (minus the baby).

M4M is available On Demand (check IFC for details) and on Netflix. I'll probably watch it this weekend. Check it out and let me know what you think. If you've already seen it, please comment. Much love!

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: What's Your Good News?

2009-12-01T07:00:00.007-05:00

(because you can't make this stuff up)

TELL ME SOMETHING GOOD

(rising above the grim, bizarre &

just plain crazy headlines)

Is it just me or has the world been doling out an extra helping of "gone mad" over the past few weeks? Yesterday I scanned the newspaper and saw nothing but negative headlines. From Tiger Woods and his "mystery wreck," to the two separate (unrelated) massacres by Paul Michael Merhige and Maurice Clemmons, to the mass killings in the Philippines, it feels like the world is completely on edge. Kind of ironic given that this is a time of year usually about love and human connection (for many anyway). At least the White House party "incident" was sort of funny (though not exactly reassuring as far as homeland security is concerned, yikes). STILL...

JUST BECAUSE THE MEDIA CHOOSES

TO FOCUS ON NEGATIVE EVENTS

DOESN'T MEAN WE HAVE TO!

* Today let's spread the good word!

* What positive headlines caught your eye this week?

* Any good local news you'd like to share?

* What about personal stories?

* Kids get an A+?

* Blind date go surprisingly well?

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS HERE!

-V.D.

Free Will Friday: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Your Wallet

2009-11-27T01:21:00.013-05:00

(choosing to be victors vs. victims)

CHECK YOURSELF BEFORE YOU

WRECK YOUR WALLET

(enjoy Black Friday but folks, be careful)

This time last year I was finishing off the last of the sweet potato pie and squeezing in some ZZZs before my 5am Black Friday mall run. Once there, ready and eager to cop tons of new stuff, I got most of my Christmas shopping done and also splurged a little on myself. I caught a few decent sales and even bought a couple pair of perfectly fitting skinny jeans (quite the achievement). It was fun...pretty satisfying actually.

However this year, at the last minute, I've decided to say N-O to Black Friday shopping. I suddenly realized that while my spending may help to improve the currently shoddy condition of the U.S. economy, saving my moola will ensure my future financial stability.

For the first time in years, I am making solid progress on a challenging and ambitious five year plan. (which will hopefully result in my relocation to L.A.). So I don't want to undo all of my hard work by buying more crap that I don't need or by frivolously doling out random gifts to friends and relatives. Therefore I am restricting my gift giving to my immediate family, my closest friends and to one charity, St. Ann's Infant Home. No more stilettos, dresses or make-up for moi. Instead I'm thinking long term and temporarily putting a giant padlock on my wallet.

However, I don't mean to sour the festive mood by discouraging you to brave the BF crowds this holiday season. If you can honestly afford to splurge then by all means go crazy. But don't forget that unemployment rates are sky high and people are still losing their homes. You need a nest egg no matter who you are. So if spending a little extra today will leave you struggling in 2010, why not bypass the mall, join me at the gym and work off the stuffing and the mac and cheese instead? Or better yet, disappoint everyone, celebrate Kwanzaa and give out hand-made presents this year. :)

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Read Yourself Happy

2009-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

(random stuff to get you through the rest of the week)

While the holidays are definitely a time of togetherness and celebration, they are also a source of anxiety and depression for millions of people. If this time of year causes you more stress, fatigue, or loneliness than yuletide cheer, try curling up with one of these inspirational reads. Beat the holiday blues!

FOUR BOOKS

TO LIFT YOUR SPIRITS

*THE ART OF HAPPINESS by Dalai Lama & Howard Cutler

*THE ALCHEMIST by Paulo Coelho
*YOU CAN HEAL YOUR LIFE by Louise Hay (my favorite)
*THIS I BELIVE II edited by Jay Allison and Dan Geoiman (read the Andy Blowers essay)

AND...CHECK OUT THESE TIPS
FOR COPING WITH HOLIDAY DEPRESSION!

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Writing Prompts From Reality (2nd Edition)

2009-11-24T07:00:00.005-05:00

(because reality inspires great art)

FROM THE HEADLINES

(and into your next great work of art)

In October I put up a post full of writing prompts drawn from newspaper headlines. I've since decided to make it a monthly thing. Enjoy!

Writers, painters and all other artsy folk, see what ideas you can drum up from these current news titles. This is a great exercise if you are creatively blocked or are looking for new assignments for your writer's group. Try it!

And don't forget to check out last month's creative springboards.

(This exercise works best if you are not

familiar w/the real news stories.)

Find any good headlines you'd like to share?

What ideas did you generate

from the above titles?

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: A Poem By Yours Truly

2009-11-23T07:00:00.004-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

On Saturday night I went to an AMAZING poetry reading. There is so much talent out here it's crazy. Anyway, it's been a while since I've shared my work or performed at an open mic or slam, but the artists I met this past weekend inspired me to pick up my pen and get back in the game.

I wrote this piece a few years ago.

I'd love to know what you think of it,
compliments, criticisms & all.

We defy the divine.

Define our worth by false standards and

Invented ideals,

Heal our hurting and self-hatred

By momentary means like

Worshipping celebrities as idol gods

Falling victim to their glossy

Glamorous facades and

Fabricated forms of beauty

Deserting our foremost duty

To the TRUE creator

To love ourselves as we were born,

To love ourselves as we are,

Rather we scar and maim,

Mutilate and shame

Our sacred temples

With face lifts and tummy tucks,

So perilously insecure and star struck,

Permitting bloody pokes and prods

As plastic surgeons turn us into frauds

While we turn them into millionaires

Our pain produces profit and

No one cares,

Rather American modern medicine

Answers our demented prayers

With extreme makeovers

Sending signs both subliminal and overt

All designed to capitalize

On our undeveloped minds, our hurt

Fueling our futile fixations

With so-called “cutting edge” procedures

Like liposuction, breast implants and Botox

Forget ethics and moral standards,

Money talks

And we will pay anything to be anything BUT

Our authentic selves

Proving there is no end to the depths

We will delve

Running recklessly from our

Glory years, grey hairs and fine lines

Vainly averting time

Yet colliding HEAD ON

With a spiritual death

Revealing how primitive

The human mind can be

So far advanced,

Yet so far from

Free.

-V.D.

Free Will Friday: Blessings In Disguise

2009-11-20T15:46:00.001-05:00

(choosing to be victors vs. victims)

Plans fall through for Saturday night? First date turn out to be the last date? Were you overlooked for that big promotion? Unforeseen expenses forcing you to put that Jamaican vacation on hold?

Let's try to find the blessings in our obstacles and setbacks and -

ENJOY THE WEEKEND ANYWAY!

-V.D.

Think Twice Thursday: Reunited and It Feels So...

2009-11-19T13:00:00.152-05:00

(because everybody gets one do-over)

REUNITED AND IT FEELS SO...

GOOD? SCARY? EXCITING?

INFURIATING? CONFUSING?

I'm not really a fan of reality tv (Amazing Race excluded), but I do plan to watch ABC's new program Find My Family when it premieres next Monday. As the title infers, the basic premise of the show is to (re)unite individuals with their estranged relatives. While this concept probably won't attract viewers who come from functional, fully intact families, those of us with missing branches and huge gaping holes in our family trees are likely to tune in.

Watching the previews of teary eyed sisters meeting for the first time or seeing estranged mothers and daughters reconnect, inevitably compels me to search for my missing relatives, namely my father. Like thousands, probably millions of others, I was raised without the guy. I never met him nor do I even know what my biological father looks like. Of course I have always been curious about him, but my mother was and is persistently tight-lipped about the details of their relationship, why it failed and ultimately why he fled. Likewise my other relatives remain her loyal co-conspirators and refuse to divulge what they know about the man who helped create MOI!

I've managed only to pry a few spotty details from mom, aunts, etc., each story contradicting the next.

The conversations went something like this:

Me (age 10): Mommy where's my daddy?

Mom: Oh baby he died in a car accident before you were born.

And Then:

Me (age 15): Mom so like, what's up with my real dad?

Mom: We met, got married, things didn't work out, then I heard he died when you were two or three.

Next:

Me (age 20): Mom, I can handle it, what really happened between you and my father?

Mom: We dated for a while. I got pregnant. He left. Never heard from him again and that was that.

It's been like pulling teeth to say the least.

I've since given up on getting the truth from my family, but seeing previews for Find My Family, reaffirms the fact that deep down I do want answers. Although I've successfully and happily lived my entire life without my father, I have A LOT of questions for and about him. That doesn't mean I'm not terrified of what I might find out. If my biological father is still alive, I can't imagine how it would feel to meet him face to face. The thought beyond overwhelms me.

And there is the issue of the family that I already know. They've worked hard at keeping the truth about my father a secret from me and only me. But why? What really happened? What don't they want me to know?

It begs the question, should I solve this mystery or just let sleeping dogs lie?

Your thoughts?

-V.D.

A&A Update - Rest In Peace Shaniya

2009-11-16T14:35:00.001-05:00

UPDATE: 11/16/09, 2:35pm EST

The body of missing 5 year old Shaniya Davis was found alongside a North Carolina highway earlier today. Please pray for her father and all those who truly loved her. God has chosen another angel today. Click here for the full story.

-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Prayers for Shaniya

2009-11-16T04:23:00.050-05:00

(starting the week with a heavy heart & a hopeful spirit)

PRAYERS FOR SHANIYA

When I started this blog, I didn't expect so many of my posts to be about child abuse, molestation and neglect. But yet again, I find myself writing another entry about another child who has been grossly mistreated. This time the victim is 5 year old Shaniya Davis of Fayetteville, North Carolina. She has been missing since Tuesday (11/10/09). Her mother, Antoinette Nicole Davis has been charged with child abuse involving prostitution as well as filing a false police report. 29 year old Mario McNeil has been charged with kidnapping after he was spotted on a security camera carrying Shaniya into a hotel on Tuesday.

PLEASE watch the brief video below for the full story.
Let us pray that they find this innocent baby safe & alive.

For up to date information regarding Shaniya's disappearance visit America's Most Wanted.

Other Missing Persons Organizations:

The National Center for Missing Adults

FBI Kidnapped and Missing Persons Investigations

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

-V.D.

Free Will Friday: Life is PRECIOUS

2009-11-13T19:00:00.001-05:00

(choosing to be victors vs. victims)

It's FINALLY Friday! I can't think of a better way to get motivated and get inspired than to GO SEE PRECIOUS this weekend!

Isn't this pic beautiful?

From Friday's (11/13/09) Washington Post.

-V.D.

Think Twice Thursday: D.C. Sniper & the Death Penalty (PART TWO)

2009-11-12T08:00:00.009-05:00

(catching what you missed the first time around)

D.C. SNIPER &

THE DEATH PENALTY

(PART TWO)

1. THE JUSTICE SYSTEM IS FLAWED.
In 2009 alone 9 Death Row inmates were found “not guilty” and exonerated. So long as the justice system mistakenly convicts the innocent, we cannot risk executing prisoners who have been wrongly accused.

2. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN OBJECTIVE JURY.
Our opinions of others are largely formed by our upbringing, education and personal experiences both positive and traumatic. In a perfect world people don’t pre-judge, but in reality a juror's decision is based on facts and sometimes prejudices.

3. MANY OFFENDERS SUFFER FROM MENTAL ILLNESS.
In the case of the DC Sniper, juries were not informed of Muhammad’s mental illness prior to sentencing (which might have changed their ruling). While all offenders should be held accountable for their crimes, convicts suffering from severe mental illness require specialized sentencing not death.

4. EXECUTION DENIES AN OFFENDER THE ABILITY TO ATONE.
It may take years, even decades for offenders to realize the full impact of their crimes. If an inmate is executed, they may die before they have assumed full responsibility for their offenses and apologized sincerely to their victims.

5. DEATH AS A PUNISHMENT IS PRESUMPTUOUS.
Since no one knows exactly what happens after we die, it is presumptuous to consider death a punishment. Life is undoubtedly a gift. But for many death is also a gift, an opportunity to escape the pain and turmoil we are experiencing here on Earth.

6. EXECUTION ALLOWS OFFENDERS TO ESCAPE LIFE SENTENCES.
Many death row inmates would rather die than spend the remainder of their lives in prison. Prisoners serving life sentences in strict, maximum security facilities, are reminded of their crimes every day and forced to contemplate the severity of their decisions.

7. EXECUTION CONTRADICTS CHRISTIAN IDEALS.
During criminal trials, witnesses are required to swear on the Bible before giving their testimony. The Ten Commandments (namely “thou shall not kill”) are written in that same Bible. Therefore executing a Death Row inmate is not an act of self-defense or forgiveness, but rather one of vengeance.

8. EXECUTION CANNOT BRING VICTIMS BACK TO LIFE.
Murdering a convict cannot reverse his or her wrong doing. Families will continue to mourn the loss of a loved one whether or not their victimizer is alive or dead, making an execution a futile and unnecessary act.

9. EXECUTION DENIES GREATER UNDERSTANDING/PREVENTION OF CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR.
If offenders are kept alive we have an opportunity to understand more about the minds of murderers, serial killers, etc. from both a scientific and psychological perspective. Identifying potentially dangerous patterns of behavior among inmates could help to prevent future tragedies.

10. VICTIMS CANNOT COMMUNICATE WITH OFFENDERS IN THE FUTURE.
While it is often too painful for victims to confront the people who have destroyed their lives, they should have the option to do so at any time. If they cannot or do not want to confront their victimizers in the beginning, perhaps they will feel differently years, even decades later. However if their offender has been executed, victims are denied the chance to speak to or communicate with them forever.

Just my opinion. Feel free to respectfully disagree.

Click to enlarge.

Do you agree with the death penalty?

Why or why not?

Do you think John Allen Muhammad

should have been executed or spared his life?

-V.D.

Think Twice Thursday: D.C. Sniper & the Death Penalty (PART ONE)

2009-11-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

(catching what you missed the first time around)

D.C. SNIPER &

THE DEATH PENALTY

(PART ONE)

In 2002 John Allen Muhammad and accomplice John Lee Malvo, killed 10 people and injured several others in a three week shooting spree throughout the DC Metro area.

Just like everyone else living in the DMV at that time, I've never felt so powerless, tense and vulnerable in my entire life. Because Muhammad and Malvo chose their victims at random, doing everyday things like pumping gas or crossing the street were terrifying. News reporters were advising people to take refuge in their homes and stay inside to avoid becoming targets. Absolute madness. When the DC Snipers were finally caught on October 24th, 2002 all of Washington breathed a collective sigh of relief and then bemoaned the loss of ten innocent lives.

On November 10th, 2009 John Allen Muhammad was put to death at the Greensville Correctional Center in Virginia for said attacks. John Lee Malvo who was a minor at the time of the killing spree, is currently serving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.

I deeply empathize with the victims of Muhammad's and Malvo's killing spree. And I cannot imagine how immensely the victims' families have suffered and are suffering. However I find Muhammad's execution extremely unsettling. In fact the practice of capital punishment itself feels primitive, barbaric, inimical, and ultimately misguided. Therefore I do not and will never support the death penalty. That's my two cents. Still reading?

CHECK BACK FOR PART TWO:

-V.D.

Wednesday Wild Card: Lovely Bones, Lovely Movie?

2009-11-11T22:38:00.012-05:00

(random goodies to get you through the rest of the week)

COMING SOON TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU:

THE LOVELY BONES

I never read The Time Traveler's Wife, but the movie bored me to tears. Both the book and movie versions of Where the Wild Things Are are breathtaking. Push by Sapphire makes my top ten list of favorite fiction novels. So I'll be the first in line to see Precious this weekend. What's next?

Though not exactly a festive holiday flick, the movie version of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold premieres on December 11th in the US. I'm reading the book now (no tears yet) and am loving this novel despite its dark story. I definitely plan to see the film! Peter Jackson directs. Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz and Susan Sarandon star. The heart-wrenching role of SUSIE SALMON is played by 15 year old Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan. And StanleyTucci (perfect choice) has been cast as GEORGE HARVEY. Visit Lovely Bones the Movie for more info.

Have you read The Lovely Bones?

Will you see the movie?

-V.D.

Tuesday News Day: Paintbrush Protest

2009-11-10T05:42:00.008-05:00

(because reality inspires great art)

PAINTBRUSH PROTEST

(how one woman is using art to promote health care reform)

On Monday I planned on taking a few pictures of a mural I'd spotted on my way to work. But since I am usually pretty grumpy and disheveled come Monday morning, I forgot my camera and was of course, very bummed.

So I arrived at work, did work stuff, logged on to National Public Radio and discovered none other than said beloved mural on NPR's home page! I love it when the stars align.

ABOUT THE PAINTING

Created by artist Regina Holliday, the mural chronicles husband Fred Holliday's maddening journey through the health care system as he struggled to receive proper treatment for stage IV kidney cancer. Please watch the video below to learn more. You will be inspired not only by Regina's vision and talent, but also by her determination to raise awareness against unjust medical procedures. For the full article click HERE.

And if you live in the DC/Metro area, check out the mural located on the BP wall facing the CVS parking lot near Politics and Prose Bookstore at the 5000 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW.

Your thoughts?

Much love,
-V.D.

Monday Meditation: Learning from the Greats and the Goofs

2009-11-09T08:00:00.003-05:00

(starting the week with a positive mind)

RECOMMENDED READING & WATCHING
(learning from the greats and the goofs)

My favorite types of books are biographies. Same goes for movies. It's the voyeur in me I guess. Or maybe it's just my inner inquisitor, trying to make sense of the world and everyone in it. Either way, biographies whether presented in book or movie form, offer incredible insight into the minds of those who have either succeeded or failed in their professional and personal lives. You can learn a lot from them (icons, rebels, screw-ups and all). It's that whole "good writers read" thing you know?

In other words:

Study the worst to avoid their pitfalls.

Study the best in order to become the best.

Below are a few of my favorite artists and activists. Some led triumphant lives others tragic ones. But all warrant a top spot on your netflix queue or a trip to Borders to pick up their biographies. Check 'em out.

(l to r: Assata Shakur, Anne Sexton, Edith Piaf, Petey Greene)

(l to r: Betty Shabazz, Diane Arbus, Che Guevara, Edie Sedgwick)

(l to r: Assia Wevill, Sylvia Plath, Jean-Michel Basquiat)

From Picture One:

Assata Shakur: activist, exile, BPP member

Anne Sexton: poet

Edie Piaf: singer

Petey Greene: ex-con, radio personality

From Picture Two:

Betty Shabazz: activist, wife of Malcolm X

Diane Arbus: photographer

Che Guevara: activist, revolutionary

Edie Sedgwick: socialite, painter, actress

From Picture Three:

Assia Wevill: poet, mistress & eventual wife of Ted Hughes

Sylvia Plath: poet, wife of Ted Hughes

Jean-Michel Basquiat: artist, painter

What's your favorite biography or true life film?

What artists or prominent figures have impacted your work?

-V.D.

A&A Extras: The Objectification of Ota Benga

2009-10-29T15:47:00.003-04:00

(misc. news and musings worth mentioning)

THE OBJECTIFICATION OF

OTA BENGA

A few nights ago I watched an episode of the History Detectives which examined the 19th and early 20th century exhibition/exploitation of human beings in state fairs and traveling carnivals. One such human being was a pygmy from the Belgian Congo named Ota Benga. In 1904 Benga was put on display at the St. Louis World's Fair and later in the Monkey House at the Bronx Zoo.

As in the case of the ill-fated Saartjie Baartman of South Africa (aka The Hottentot Venus), Benga's African features and small stature were considered deformities and sub-human oddities by largely Caucasian spectators.

Listen below to learn more about Benga's tragic yet fascinating life. Also hear from individuals who knew Ota Benga personally. Different times.

-V.D.