Vlog #48 READY FOR ANOTHER ONE

BREATHE YOGA Pop-up store Holiday Event 2019

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #195

A military family takes part in a groundbreaking experiment of genetic evolution and space exploration. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Well the holidays have hit and with all the free time and time with family movies will be watched. Having spent the holiday with my parents many of the films I review wouldn’t be to their liking. So to have a peaceful holiday I let my Mom select a film. As a major fan of Tom Cruise she set out to find a film in the Tom Cruise vein ending up with a Netflix feature called TITAN. The premise seemed interesting and it all seemed promising. Upon watching, it soon became clear this film was not going to deliver the goods with a story that took us nowhere and a character transition into something unrecognizable. So for TITAN I give it 2 of 5 stars.

Vlog #47 ALL FOR THE HOLIDAYS

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #194

The script centers on two policemen, one an old-timer (Gibson), the other his volatile younger partner (Vaughn), who find themselves suspended when a video of their strong-arm tactics become the media's cause du jour. Low on cash and with no other options, these two embittered soldiers descend into the criminal underworld to gain their just due but instead find far more than they wanted awaiting them in the shadows. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Having seen this writer-director previous two films, the anticipation for this one grew even higher, knowing I enjoyed the first two. The film I am talking about is DRAGGED ACROSS CONCRETE by S. Craig Zahler. I am still in awe of this film and don’t know if it is the way he tells a story, the dialogue, or how he gets some tremendous acting performances from his actors that make his films so memorable. I even this time realized he composes his own soundtrack as well. Furthermore, DRAGGED ACROSS CONCRETE is gritty and entertaining beginning to end. So for DRAGGED ACROSS CONCRETE, I give it 4.5 o 5 stars.

BOOK REVIEW: THE WAY OF THE SUPERIOR MAN #8

LATCHKEY KIDS

They skipped across the terracotta stepping-stones to the back entrance. It was the era of latchkey kids, and as far as Harold knew his parents wouldn't be home till much later. He had attempted sneaking a girl into his house before, but choosing the wrong girl and expecting the neighbors to mind their business foiled that. 

This time around, he chose Andrea; they were in the same grade, rode the same bus, and lived just around the corner. She was black like Harold, a little chubby yet more developed than the other girls and had a liking for Harold. This is probably why it didn't take much for Harold to talk her into coming over as they got off the bus. Pointing out the fact that their driveway was clear, meaning his parents were out and would be for some time. 

The realization of the possibilities of what could happen made Andrea's stomach fill with butterflies. Harold felt something as well wanting to speed up the process his bad boy side creeping out, as he couldn't wait to be alone with her. Oh, the mischief they were going to get into. Harold took the key from his neck and opened the side door to his house, and invited Andrea inside. 

The side door entrance opened into the kitchen, where Harold threw down his book bag onto the kitchen table, Andrea did the same following suit. Harold had never been alone with a girl in his home and had no idea how to entertain. Of course, the ideas he did have were welcoming to him as he sized Andrea up in awkward silence. Andrea just looked around and then asked Harold to show her around. Harold led her through the kitchen to the living room and into the hall past the bathroom. Making sure to skip his siblings and parents room. 

Andrea smiled as she entered his room, and that smile leads to a laugh as she saw Harold had a few Gumby posters on his wall. Seeing this, Harold stood staunchly and defended his collection vowing he'd somehow find a way into her bedroom so he could laugh at her bedroom layout. Andrea then, with an adult tone, described her bedroom to which seemed bland and without much originality or items for a girl her age. This was when Harold began to see how Andrea seemed older than the other girls in their grade. 

Harold then sat on his bed as Andrea continued looking around his room and walls taking it all in, finally joining him on his bed. They then talked about classes and what had happened at lunch that day. In a mutual moment, their eyes met over silence, and then they both looked away. Words were not being said, but from their body language, things were being expressed. Andrea closed her eyes and leaned in for a kiss as Harold read this as an opportunity he reached for Andrea's adolescent breast and gave it a squeeze. 

The two of them froze in place, realizing their signals had been misinterpreted. Yet, Andrea recoiled as Harold continued to hold on and squeeze. Andrea then brushed Harold's hand from her chest as in their own way, they were embarrassed. Andrea was the first to speak, "You like that, huh? to which Harold replied, "Yeah, nice and soft." "Do you want to see them?" Andrea questioned. Harold's eyes widened like saucers as he hopped up on the bed, nodding emphatically. 

At that, Andrea smiled with a sense of accomplishment and desire and began to remove her shirt. Harold's eyes now looked like full moons getting to see more of Andrea than he had ever. Her bosoms pouring out of her teen sized bra became his focus when down the hall, the sound of the door being unlocked and opened, and someone walking in could be heard.

Vlog #46 OPPORTUNITY STRIKES

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #193

This movie follows a teenager named Stevie growing up in Los Angeles. He's struggling with his family, including his co-dependent single mom and his abusive older brother, and at school, where his richer friends seem to overlook him. When Stevie befriends a crew of skateboarders, he learns some tough lessons about class, race, and privilege. Written by Polly_Kat (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

The 90’s for me were a time I was coming of age and learning the joys and hard knocks of life has been something that has stuck with me.  So it makes sense that this nostalgic feeling has drawn me to this film the MID 90’S. Upon watching the dynamic of the main character home made me think of my relationship with my brothers and neighborhood friends. As the story developed I found myself enthralled with what played out on screen. At a certain point it even made me reflect on childhood friends and what they maybe doing today. Ultimately the resolution of the film left me wanting something more yet the actors portrayals all seemed genuine and mad the film a delight. So for MID 90’S I give it a solid 3.5 of 5 stars

FAITH OF A MUSTARD SEED

It wasn't the first time he was told his faith would heal him. It was like deja vu when he began to hear the grandiose thoughts and speech from her. There was the subtlest of warnings as he listened to the words, "She's like Angie." A simple idea, but one that left up to translation or even explanation, led his mind all over the place, trying to make sense. 

When she wasn't around, his mind functioned as it always had in the process of rebuilding his life, staying focused, and reaching goals he had set for himself now. He rallied his brain how he ends up, here again, facing what clearly looked and sounded like a crazy person. Now searching to find the way out of difficult situations and questions that directed him to whether he believed. 

In the previous episode, the woman started as a love interest. It was easy to follow her up to a point. When she was seeing the spirit and remarking how demons were searching for her, it was easy for him to tune out, yet harder for him to continue to have faith. 

He had grown up in the church and had some faint spiritual experiences in his life enough to believe it could be real. Never seeing anything himself and having that right to life experience, he became doubtful and ultimately frustrated that nothing was becoming of this as her rants became ever increasingly incoherent. 

The same thing was happening now years after the first experience, yet this woman was not a love interest. She was a woman who had replied to his ad for a care provider believing even then that she was lead to the job posting. He felt honored that she could say that a little hesitant to fully engage with her, but over time and with time to talk and share his life story, it all slowly changed. 

The similarities were striking and lead to the same ultimate goal of healing his body. He wondered if there was a sign that he was draped in that these people could see that he couldn't. He did; it was his wheelchair. Slowly, but inevitably the attention became on healing him. Again he felt honored someone, anyone would want to heal him, but when attempts were made and dates set and then nothing. It tested not only his faith he had that life could allow him a second chance living an able-bodied, but it also tested his tolerance with what others would call a delusional person. A crazy fuckin idiot if he was to be crass and not really care if he offended them or he offended God. 

Pained by being put in this situation again, he held out for belief, but when time after time, he was blamed for not fully believing and having faith because he wasn't walking; he became cold to the idea altogether. He just didn't know what he was doing wrong; if anything causes, he wasn't getting up out of his chair. 

It was true he wanted that more than most anything, yet it just wouldn't click. He'd hit a point where believing seemed to be something he could 'not fully achieve, and everyone was telling him he could he just wanted to be out and away from the thoughts and the blame if it was to happen why couldn't it just happen? He had faith once. Even now, with all the doubt, his faith was at least the size of a mustard seed. 

Vlog #45 A POP UP STORE KIND OF WEEKEND

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #192

Courtesy of Impwards.com

Collin (Daveed Diggs) must make it through his final three days of probation for a chance at a new beginning. He and his troublemaking childhood best friend, Miles (Rafael Casal), work as movers and are forced to watch their old neighborhood become a trendy spot in the rapidly gentrifying Bay Area. When a life-altering event causes Collin to miss his mandatory curfew, the two men struggle to maintain their friendship as the changing social landscape exposes their differences. Explores the intersection of race and class set against the backdrop of Oakland. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Having heard of this film through a friend, who highly recommended it, as he is another film reviewer I felt this film needed to be seen. The film I am talking about is BLINDSPOTTING. Looking at just the trailer the film looked like it may be a musical and I quite possibly may not have been down for that. Yet upon watching it I found a film that was not only entertaining it spoke on some issues of our time from a perspective that didn’t come off as propaganda. I also felt the collection of characters made for an interesting take that showed how life can put us in situations that tests us. So for BLINDSPOTTING I give it 4.5 stars of 5.

ART SHARE

Back at it with a BTS look at some works in progress (WIP)   ...GO!!!

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BAD DRIVER

You would have to be Braxton to understand how important this day was to him. He had just finally felt like he had arrived as it pertains to being someone on the campus of his Del Norte High School. He was now a junior, but more interestingly, he was high school famous after having one if not the best game of his life the Friday night of homecoming week, which on a varsity football team full of seniors he had made his mark. People were reciting his name as he would walk by, girls would smile and wave, which ultimately lead him to be invited to a party at Brooke Miller's. 

Now Brooke Miller was like the campus socialite; all the girls looked to her for personal advice and fashion sense. Her mother Pearl was a huge booster club member planning events all year round to keep the athletics well feed and her schedule full. So to be personally invited to one of these events was a big deal. Not that being on the varsity team wasn't enough; it sure helped that had played well helping the team to win a game. The underlying theme was always winning. 

Braxton's problem was he didn't drive; he didn't even have a car. His parents were putting that money to his college fund; he'd have to work if he wanted a car, so he just never applied to get his license or bother studying up. To that end, he had always relied on someone to give him a ride. The night of the party, his parents would be out for their weekly date night, which usually meant dinner and bingo at the YMCA, so that option was out. As for the rest of his teammates, he tried asking, and everyone agreed, but when it came down to it, they rather not, or they had other ideas of how they wanted to spend theIr night and not become a chauffeur. 

Braxton was a little hurt by that till one of his mates saw how down he got when everyone began to turn him down. Neville was a teammate who rarely played, but was close with Pearl and Brooke, and got the invite due to his charm and know-how to be gracious. Neville agreed to pick up Braxton so relieved that he nearly gave Neville a hug in the locker room where the male to male contact like that was frowned upon. 

So the night of the party, Braxton was looking tiptop. His Dad had tied his tie and left it knotted and then left Braxton to wait for his ride. Upon Neville showing up, he was in a shadow grey minivan, which jerked to a stop out in front of Braxton's house. The driver side window rolled down and then came the honk, as Neville shouted out from the van, "Let's go, man! Braxton rushed out from his house and moved to the still running minivan with no idea what would follow. 

He got in the van buckled his seat belt over his sport coat and striking red tie. He looked incredible, while Neville was in a pair of shorts and a pale blue oxford shirt. Braxton now strapped in turned to Neville, who set the car in drive, and the vehicle sped off, sending Braxton back into his seat like he was fighting against g forces in a Mig 1 fighter jet. This was only the beginning as Neville began to show why not many people wanted to ride with him, he was one of those crazy drivers weaving in and out of traffic, gunning the van at a green and slamming on the brakes at a red light. The smile Braxton once had for the night had now switched to a look of terror gripping the door panel handle for dear life as Neville whipped the van around a corner, nearly hitting a traffic sign. 

Braxton looked over at Neville as if to say something, but only looked at him in hopes he'd see the immense fear he was filled with and he'd slow down or at least drive less like a crazed maniac. From up ahead, Braxton could see a pile of cars quickly come up. Beginning to feel nauseous, Braxton looked to Neville, who zoomed through the pile-up and on down the road. He then made a quick u-turn and jerked it into park as they had arrived at their destination. 

Braxton went for the door, forgetting to unbuckle his belt; he just wanted out to which Neville exclaimed, "Made it!" in a playful tone in his voice as if he had broken a new record.  Braxton finally exited the van feeling shaky in his legs, adrenaline coursing through his veins as Pearl and Brooke Miller out in front of their home was greeting other guests. As Braxton gathered himself still nauseous, he and Neville walked up to the house. Walking side-by-side, Neville patted Braxton on his back to which Braxton uncontrollably spewed his stomach contents at the feet of the Miller's whose expression was of utter disgust.

Vlog #44 THE COMING NEW YEAR

Vlog #43 THE BIG ASK EXERCISE

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #191

Eddie Murphy portrays real-life legend Rudy Ray Moore, a comedy and rap pioneer who proved naysayers wrong when his hilarious, obscene, kung fu fighting alter ego, Dolemite, became a 1970s Blaxploitation phenomenon. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Upon seeing the trailer for DOLEMITE IS MY NAME via Netflix my anticipation to see this film was triggered. This was partly due to not having seen Eddie Murphy in a film for sometime and that the film was taking on a blaxploitation subject matter. Once I got my chance to watch I was pleasantly surprise as the film tells a great story of perseverance. I felt the cast was well selected and performed well in this heartfelt film. So in the end it looks like Eddie Murphy is back and so for DOLEMITE IS MY NAME I give it a 3.85 of 5 stars.

ARTIST INTERVIEW: 2019 #3 w/ Ken Maccall

ROCK BOTTOM

It didn't happen all at once, nothing this tragic ever does. It's not like a car accident or randomly getting mugged as you walked down the wrong street. This was slow and methodical, this took time. 

This all started with a few simple decisions that on his or her own, seemed like it wouldn't matter either way. Yet those choices became routine. It's not going to hurt. I'll catch it later, thinking you can quit at any time. 

These are the phases that make it seem all too benign, but again as it becomes routine, it's like the sun rising and setting you to become used to it, almost expecting it. At its worst, you are expecting it, dare I say craving it, but for others, the fact that it has become so routine it is hard to see it for what it is. 

The sad part is when others can see that it is a problem and some will say something and others won't, while some will encourage it using it as a way to get what they want from you. Others even seem to care yet don't want to get mixed up in a mess. And rather than being a strong force against your unwillingness to see what you are doing to yourself will set you up with whatever you crave just to keep you quiet, to keep from getting dirty or even just to keep the peace. 

Hopefully, for someone going in this direction, they have someone who will stop them from eventual destruction because this road only leads to one direction when you've gone so far. If your the type that doesn't heed the warning, it is hard to say if you'll make it out, although if you do prepare to face your demons, those voices that thrive on your pain and want to keep you there. 

What am I talking about? I'm talking about rock bottom the place a great few have to go to before they realize they have a problem. The place some have to go before asking for help. The place some go who get there and stay too long and never get to tell their story of recovery. 

Vlog #42 THE HOLIDAYS & COLIN KAEPERNICK IS BACK?

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #190

Childhood friends Jerry (Jeremy Renner), Callahan (Jon Hamm), Randy (Jake Johnson), Sable (Hannibal Buress) and Hoagie (Ed Helms) have been competing in the same game of tag for 30 years. When Jerry gets married, he attempts to retire from the intense annual game without ever being "it," causing the other four to band together and go to extreme lengths to finally tag him. Directed by Jeff Tomsic. Inspired by the Wall Street Journal article "It Takes Planning, Caution to Avoid Being It." (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

For a film on the joys of never fully growing up TAG has that in aces. Having seen the trailer to this film in the theater I was intrigued by the premise and added it to my Netflix queue. Although this film wasn’t on the top of my list it took some time to come around. When it did though, I was reminded of my past interest and pleasantly surprised by the film itself. I think the initial attraction was in the cast, which I felt delivered the goods in this unique true story. Furthermore, this true to life story had some good organic laughs so for TAG I give it 3.2 stars of 5.

BOOK REVIEW: GUERILLA MARKETING

ALL FOR THE ART

They had been working on a project together for months. They'd meet at a coffee shop or some quiet space for their meetings, each doing work on their own to make the process go faster. The research was in the remodeling of a vacant building and turn it into an art gallery for the new art crowd. The talk at first seemed natural, but as they both dove headfirst into the project, there were roadblocks and numerous situations where no one they asked knew what to do. 

They had teamed up as she had answered an ad he had posted on a craigslist site looking to create a team to help bring more cultural and artistic diversity to his community. He was a recent master's degree grad who had returned for his masters once he saw that those with standard degrees were having so much difficulty finding positions in their majors. The decision was decisive, and he never looked back, knowing he'd have to struggle to make ends meet, spending another four years in school to reach his masters in business administration. Slow and steady, he made his way through with his real love being in art and those things creative. In his time in the MBA program, he grew to become the preppy type of fitting in dressing down in oxford shirts and chinos. Showing his own bit of personal style with a pop of color or vintage piece of jewelry. His parents were immigrants from Jamaica who admired his drive wondering where he had gotten it from, but still overjoyed. 

She was a librarian volunteering as an advocate for a nonprofit agency. That worked for those who were disenfranchised from there homes. In her work, she had found that life is filled with a lot of gray areas and things that explanation could not be explained. When she had seen the ad on craigslist, she was feeling a moment of regret and wondered where her life had gone. She liked to help those less fortunate but asked what she could have accomplished if she was a bit more selfish or even ego-driven. The vainest she had ever been was her hair color and trim she had been getting since age 40 to blend the gray with the blond. The message hit her in that spot were it gave her the chills and a boost of empowerment knowing she'd be working with a younger team of adults. She wanted to feel young again but didn't know how to exactly go about doing it since being divorced. 

It ended up she was the only one to reply to the ad, which made for an exciting first meet up. Realizing they were looking for each other, they laughed at how they were expecting completely different people. Yet they hit it off he liked that she was older, was from the area, and was already working with people. She wanted his ambition from his schooling to the size of the project he was proposing; it all made him attractive in her eyes. 

Their first meets were just filling out forms to apply for federal grants for art installations in the state. She had been overseeing this while he was meeting with those who could be donors to help get the art gallery up and off the ground if they weren't able to secure any grants. They sat across from each other,  near a large window next to the street. She shared with him the progress she had made in the past month, nothing coming through till the last weeks. He told her about the four donors he met in the previous week that guaranteed a check of some sort to help get the project in motion. The constant messaging and being in contact had created a strong bond within the two that this day proved to take a new form. 

Earlier in the day, she was feeling a bit vulnerable when another grant declined them combined with the stress of her work. He was like she was stressed from having to be denied to his face taking meetings only to have donors laugh at his idea. Where they were sitting in the coffee was gradually flooded by the sun pouring through the window, making everything with the ability to shine sparkle. Her eyes were lit up at that moment and shone marvelously on her freckled skin. He was in awe. She caught him looking into her eyes like he had never before. She blushed on her face and chest. Then out of nowhere, reaching for her hand on top of the communication folder on the table. She didn't pull away. He tenderly caressed her hand, looking at it on the table. 

Something moved in her that she had felt had long gone, and now he was arousing it's second coming in her. He became full of lust in just touching her. Her wrist, forearm, shoulder, neck, her face. She closed her eyes and held his hand there as he caressed her cheek with his thumb, the sun glowing in her hair. To him, at this moment, she was so beautiful, beyond words. Beyond that, their time of bonding had brought on the respect that now blurred into his current desires. In a moment of whim, they each felt there was an even a higher level they wanted to discover. 

She snuggled against his hand on her face. He moved next to her, keeping the display of affection to publicly acceptable. They were close enough to feel their body heat coming from the other. She smiled and pursed her lips as they began to breath deeper. He whispered in her ear, "Do you really want this?' She shook to her innermost being opened her eyes, and looking at him with desire, shook her head, coly saying, "Yes." They questioned themselves inside where had this passion come from, and was it always there lying in wait for a random sunny day where they were both feeling the blues. 

Their minds scrambled, thinking of where in the immediate vicinity they could go to push this moment further. Rubbing on the shoulders and neck of the mistress to be with his muscular yet tender hands. She felt each stroke all the way down to her spasming thighs. This was all so new and refreshing; it took her like a storm. She was having a hard time just sitting there still as he touched her. 

He then stood up, holding her by the hand, leading her covertly to an open restroom. The spontaneity of the moment was overwhelming them both as they locked the door behind themselves. She liked the way he was gentle with her making her feel beautiful, desired, and precious or as much as a coffee shop bathroom could make her. It was more about the unbridled desire that formed from a noble endeavor. They watched themselves in the mirror as he kissed her neck and ear, entering her slowly.  She gasped, biting her bottom lip. They proceeded uninterrupted to an eventual mutual climax that relived and drained their stresses and created a connection they both couldn't deny. Once they had reordered themselves and kissed passionately one last time. They returned to the central part of the coffee shop and continued working fervently.

Vlog #41 CONTINUED PROGRESS & THE CAMPFIRE 1 YEAR LATER

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #189

Joker centers on an origin of the iconic arch nemesis and is an original, standalone story not seen before on the big screen. Todd Phillips' exploration of Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), a man disregarded by society, is not only a gritty character study, but also a broader cautionary tale. Written by Warner Bros. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Well I finally broke down and went and saw JOKER. This was definitely at a point where the major hoopla around the movie had died down and I had seen enough quotes on how great it was and was ready to see it myself. Not knowing what expect having avoided all spoilers I felt the film was set up very well putting you in a world and time in Gotham that parallel and stayed true to the storyline I was familiar with. The development of Joker in the film played by Joaquin Phoenix I found was incredible and I am sure there is Oscar buzz for him there. In the end I found JOKER to be very entertaining and thought provoking so I give it 3.75 of 5 stars.

HE'S BACK

He found himself in the kitchen trying to avoid a catastrophe before the party. The disaster on the verge was that the special dish he was making for the party was looking dreadfully like it wasn't going to turn out. He had perspiration beading upon his brow and was feeling like a contestant on a Gordon Ramsey show. He told himself to give it a few more minutes, and if it still weren't working out, he'd always have time to give it another try. 

So he then rushed to prepare himself visually for the party he had already showered and shaved, and now he just needed the final touches. He messed with his hair looking to have just the right amount of messed with so it looked good, but also to look like he didn't care. He threw on his cornflower blue oxford button-up with a pair of dark khaki shorts and white leather shoes. Quickly rinses his mouth with mouthwash, and he rushed back to the kitchen to check on his masterpiece. 

To his great surprise, the dish was turning out the way he'd hoped, but it still needed time to cook, so he pushed the timer back two more minutes and returned to the bathroom to primp a bit more. As he stood in the mirror, he thought about the list of people he'd invited. It was a mix of people throughout his Rolodex. These were people he worked with, some were acquaintances, others were friends from way back, to girls that he'd just like to show up. There were a few on the list who gave no idea if they intended to come but hoping they would show. It was like as the host, there was always the anxiety that people would not show. Partly because of the past experience or that the current experience would keep them from showing ever again. 

He was looking the best he could when the timer went off. He entered the kitchen. The smell was indiscernibly fantastic; this is what he was going for. He turned the oven off and set the dish on the Italian marble countertop to cool down a bit. He looked at his watch; it was 5:37pm. He should be expecting guests soon or within the hour. He reviewed his list of 10 to 15 things to see if they were done. He turned on some music, and with some time to spare, he just breathed. 

He had spent time all week just tidying things up so it wouldn't be a whole day thing. He also junked a lot of stuff that just wasn't bringing him joy anymore, which really uncluttered the house. The music he was playing was from his own mix, letting him wind down a little before people began showing up. He thought about one girl he had invited a model he had worked with several times who had gone back to school, wondering if she was still in photoshoot shape. He thought of a metal artist he had been following online and was dying to ask how he created those fantastic pieces. He had another male friend talking about the dish he was going to bring and dying to try. 

At about that moment, he reviewed his list once more and seeing everything was taken care of. He found his lighter and a joint from his stash and lit it up and hit it a few times then put it out, clearing the smoke he began to feel the feeling of a job well done. He had made his way back as the guy with the fabulous dinner parties. He smiled to himself as the doorbell rang, and the guest began to arrive with gifts to share and festive moods.

Vlog #40 CREATING A ROADMAP FOR SUCCESS

BOOK REVIEW: Richest Man in Babylon #6

HOLDING UP

She was frantic from the things she had heard over the phone had struck terror into her heart. She screamed out again, "Nick fuckin' pick up!" The other end was silent. She had no idea what she needed to do. She had no idea where Nick was and if he was indeed in danger or if this was another one of his annoying pranks. She listened some more, keeping the line open. Moving through her apartment, looking for a pen and paper to jot some things down. She wrote the time he called and the last time they had talked. She remembered the conversation clearly as it was about their relationship. She had wanted to push forth and get more serious about building a future together. He was a bit opposite in that he liked how casual they were. He wasn't seeing anyone on the side, but to put a name on it and start talking future plans seemed to be out of his comprehension at this time. He wasn't young, and neither was she, but life always seemed to take them where it wanted. 

She called up the local Police department on her landline as her cell was still on the line with Nick's phone. She continued to write down some of the jargon she had heard over the phone like "abandon ship," "10 – 4", "It's me, Lee." She circled that name, as it was the only name she could track as she listened. Once the PD picked up, she claimed she wanted to repeat a missing person hoping for the best. After a few questions, she was told that officers would be sent out shortly to further take her statement and a few other things. 

She was driven mad in the time, thinking of all the things that could have happened. She tried to stay calm and get her mind off of the negative, the feat seemed to be beyond her focus at that time. Then there was a knock at her door. It was the police officers sent to take her statement. They came into her apartment and congregated around the kitchen corner, where she sat her cell phone still connected to Nick's phone. The officers asked her many of the same questions the woman officer from the precinct had asked. Then they started asking about their relationship and whether there was anyone who would want to hurt Nick. Her mind had already gone through a list of suspects who could have tried to hurt him, but she told the officers there was no one she could think of. As for their relationship it was like anyone else's she tried to skip over the exact details, but she loved him she was sure that if this could get him back alive is what she wanted most. 

The officers then looked at the notes she had compiled from what she heard of the conversation on the other end. They then asked about the sounds she heard and described the sounds of gunfire to be like two quick-firing fireworks not wanting to think the sounds actually came from a firearm. She was holding up well; no tears had fallen, but they had welled up several times, and she would fight them back, wiping away those that rolled out onto her cheek. She feared how she'd feel once the officers left, but for now, she was holding it together to get them everything they needed. The officers figured the best way to get to the bottom of this was to ping Nick's phone and use GPS to find the exact location. Whether or not Nick would be found there, they couldn't be sure, but that was the next plan of action. She held her breath.  

Vlog #39 READING & LEADERSHIP

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #189

Alexander McQueen's rags-to-riches story is a modern-day fairy tale, laced with the gothic. Mirroring the savage beauty, boldness and vivacity of his design, this documentary is an intimate revelation of McQueen's own world, both tortured and inspired, which celebrates a radical and mesmerizing genius of profound influence. Written by Salon (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

I’d have to say this selection was a departure from my film reviews in that it is a documentary rather than a film and that documentary is MCQUEEN. This is the all too tragic story of Alexander McQueen the fashion designer. Before watching this documentary I knew little about the man and more about his work. What I found myself watching was the creation of a genius who took to fashion learning all he could each step of the way only to realize that being a “genius” comes with a price among all the opulence and beauty his life had a dark side. So for MCQUEEN I give it 3.5 star of 5.

           

ART SHARE

Back with another Able Abe Studios Art Share. This one is entitled "Stage presence" ...GO!!!

For more from Able Able studios make sure to check out these excellent links ableabestudios.com , Able Abe photography , Able Abe Z store , Able abe fan page , YouTube Channel.

NO SHOWS

Photo credit: Alexander Beck, "Man at table."

There wasn't much more he could do, as he just sat, realizing he would be the only one showing up.  The table was empty except for him, and for most people, this would be devastating. Yet, he reveled in the opportunity to be uncomfortable feeling everyone's eyes on him whispers through other tables looking at the guy eating and drinking by himself. 

Not only that, but he had been there the week before the same table at about the same time waited on by a lovely young waitress with a sweet voice. He really didn't expect to see her again, what would be the odds Friday would be part of her regular work schedule. The odds were pretty good as soon as he was seated by the night's host. She came up to say hi. 

In a flickering of a second, he realized who she was smiling big. She questioned him on making it back, and he shyly agreed the place was up to his standards, feeling he should have something more provocative or flirtatious he stuck with that response. She smiled back anyway and told him it was good to see him. With that, he felt even more secure in his skin if the people he was meeting with bailed on him. 

Eventually, his waiter showed up, disappointed to see it was a male he retired all the possibilities that he'd get to enjoy the presence of the young woman he had tipped so well the last time. He set a time in his mind that if no one showed, he'd place a food order. His phone lit up. It was the people he was to meet, sending him a notice that they wouldn't be showing up. Their reasoning was weak, much like how he began to feel about them as an individual. 

So with that cleared up, he saw what was ahead of him for at least the next hour digging in and resolving to have a wonderful time alone. His waiter came back around, and he asked what he suggested, and that is what he selected. In the process of waiting for his food, he finished the last of the beer he was so delicately nursing till the crew arrived and now knowing they were going to be no shows he was looking to tie one on. 

At one point with his waiter nowhere in sight, he caught the eye of his waitress from the previous week. She walked by with a tray of drinks for another table, and on her way back, she quietly asked if he'd like her to find his waiter for another drink. He was pleased by her attentive gesture with his mouth full of beer from the last sip he awkwardly nodded his head in affirmation. With that, she zoomed off like a buzzing bee to find him refreshment. 

Waiting, he wondered what this act of her could mean he stayed mindful of the entire situation he had found himself in. Thoughts of he weren't worth being a friend with crossed his mind, and he fought with it, finding the belief that he was. Knowledge of self-made him realizes that he was worthy if they couldn't see it, then it's on them. Obviously, some people do, as he came to that resolution, he felt more relaxed blustered by new confidence. 

At that moment, both his current waiter and Carissa came back with his drink. He thanked her profusely in front of the male waiter and watched her walk off, smiling. Then placing his order and enjoyed it. He saw Carissa buzzing around the rest of the night, but as he went to leave, she was nowhere to be found, and he vowed that moment to come back another time and see if she was in.

Vlog #38 WRITING ASSIGNMENTS

ART SHARE

And another one. Welcome to another Able Abe Studios Art Share. This one is entitled "TGIF" ...GO!!!

For more from Able Able studios make sure to check out these excellent links ableabestudios.com , Able Abe photography , Able Abe Z store , Able abe fan page , YouTube Channel.

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #188

SMALL CRIMES is a delightfully suspenseful, blackly comic tale that follows a disgraced former cop, fresh off a six-year prison sentence for attempted murder, who returns home looking for redemption but winds up trapped in the mess he left behind. (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

With no new Netflix screening selected, SMALL CRIMES was chosen by the brief preview I watched upon looking for something to watch. Once I started to watch, I was intrigued by wondering how this film would play out. With ideas of redemption and second chances for the main character an ex-cop fresh from prison being thrown around, which made for an exciting premise. Throughout the film as well, we were introduced to diverse characters, which made this film dark and slightly comedic. As the story unfolded and tense situations became tenser, we were brought back to this idea of redemption, which made me more mindful of this film's message. So for SMALL CRIMES, I give it 3.5 stars of 5.

2ND GO AROUND

He sat in his home office perplexed, working out a piece of writing he was working on. He was still yet a no-name to the industry, but he stayed focused, keeping his eye on the prize. The prize in his eyes was reaching the point where he wasn't scrambling, looking for jobs or odd jobs to secure his life and lifestyle. In a way, you could say he was looking for financial freedom from punching a clock like some jerk. He wanted to dictate every minute of his days doing the things he imagined himself doing.

The piece of writing he was working on was a screenplay he had been working on for the last month. His journey to this point was much like any red-blooded American male in their thirties, he graduated with a degree in which it allowed him the ability to freelance with his skills. He was always creative, so it kind of made sense. Along the way, he picked up the love of photography using that to the best of his abilities. Although he had these skills, it wasn't indeed where his heart was, which he was deeply in love with filmmaking. Having an entrepreneurial spirit, he had ventured out to make a few films with a group of locals in his home town, and although having a majority of the projects coming out ok, others were wrought with ego trips, anxiety-inducing phone calls, and a disaster of a final product. 

His heart and creative spirit had a tough time coming back from that one as some of the people had cut him out of their lives as he chalked it up as a learning experience and was looking for the get back project. It then dawned on him the project he was working on was that. So he dug deeper and worked with a few he wanted to make this better than anything his hometown had ever seen. 

He knew the real hard work was ahead as he would have to start from ground zero in a sense figuring all his past connections were tainted for some that bad-mouthing of those who were downright bitches. He had realized that he was taking too much of the blame for

the project going down. There were others who, rather than adding to the project, subtracted drawing in a negative vibe that didn't help in the long run. He wanted to regain that freewheeling spirit he once had as random obstacles would force him back, causing him to doubt his resolve each time. Always wondering if he really had what it took. 

He took this to heart, wondering to himself as he sat at his desk pen and notes reviewing his script. Why his life had to take that route? The resounding answer was this he had gotten involved with people who weren't there to add to the mix; they saw others having a good time and wanted to be that. In his focused mind, he didn't see that, which lead him to lose track of numerous other things, which eroded the project, and in the end, it was a failure. At that moment, he vowed to himself not to let that happen on this 2nd go around.   

Vlog #37 CONTINUED PROGRESS & HABIT BUILDING pt.2

MY NETFLIX MOVIE REVIEWS #187

An outbreak of dog flu has spread through the city of Megasaki, Japan, and Mayor Kobayashi has demanded all dogs to be sent to Trash Island. On the island, a young boy named Atari sets out to find his lost dog, Spots, with the help of five other dogs... with many obstacles along the way. Written by Mike202 (Courtesy of Internet Movie Database)

Having heard many good this about this film I finally got the opportunity to see this film I was pleasantly surprised. The film I am talking about is ISLE OF DOGS. To start by saying this was a genius level film unlike anything I’ve seen, which made it so special. I am familiar with Wes Anderson films and to me this one may be his best. I love the idea of telling a story with dogs as its characters and the animation was fun and whimsical all in fashion for the Wes Anderson style. So for ISLE OF DOGS I give it 4.2 stars of 5.

BOOK REVIEW: The story of my life PIMP

ART SHARE

And another one. Welcome to Able Abe Studios Art Share. Today's piece is entitled "A Sucker for painted toes" ...GO!!!

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JUST A LONG DAY

He sat at his booth in the diner, barely touching his food. He was sunken down, looking out the window and scrolling through a conversation of texts on his phone. From looking at him, you could tell there was something wrong. It wasn't like him to not touch the food he loved cheeseburgers. Yet there he sat like the loneliest man in the world having a tough day. 

It started from the moment he got up running late for work and banging his foot on the end of his bed. He then proceeded to only get caught up in traffic and be even later. As the day progressed at lunch looking for a pick me up, he got a hot coffee only to spill on himself to which he still wore the stain that fervently would not wash out before a group meeting where it was him giving a brief update on the accounts he was working on.  Without a blazer on hand, he gave the talk looking like a bum. 

Later on, that day as if the day for him couldn't have gotten any worse Shelly, a woman he had taken on a few dates from the same office he worked cornered him to let him know she was going back to Melvin and give it another try. With the day going as it was, he wasn't surprised it happened; he knew not to mess with her; she didn't know what she wanted. Yet he asked her out in the back of his mind thinking if they got focused, he'd have something to flaunt in Melvin's face. Melvin was the guy everyone hated. The guy born with a silver spoon in his mouth, good looking, with no real sense of the world unless it revolved around him. So good ridden to that he felt let her be Melvin's problem. 

As the day wound down on another work week and it was reaching the end of the day. Everyone was talking about his or her plans for the weekend. He was looking for some way to get himself out of this funk he started scrolling through his contacts looking for friends to hang out with when he came upon a text conversation that stopped him cold. 

He needed something to lift his spirits and decided to treat himself to a meal. It had to be something special his favorite meal was a Cheeseburger and steak cut fries. With that in mind, he went to the best place in town for just that. This joint he was heading to stacked the cheese on the patty as it finished grilling and that the cheese would melt to perfection and become super gooey and in the places where the cheese would melt down the sides on to the grill it would be a crunchy masterpiece. His mouth watered as he thought about it on the way over. He pulled up into the parking lot to find the placed closed for renovations. That as practically the final straw. A significant slap in the face. "Can this day fuckin' end already!" he exclaimed. A transient man shopping in a dumpster nearby yelled at him to keep the racket down. Defeated in even in the ability to cheer him up and have to vent his frustrations, he got back in his car and drove around to partly clear his mind and look for another cheeseburger he could dine one. 

In the back of his mind, he recalled the back and forth text messages from a contact named Charity the Redhead. Finally, he decided on a standard diner that advertised they had a "fantastic" cheeseburger. He pulled into their parking lot and went inside. He'd expect it to be busier than it was, but it was practically empty. He decided to stay weary from his catastrophe of a day. He just wanted some type of reprieve and the cheeseburger, steak fries, and a beer. An older redheaded waitress with a gruff voice met him. She showed him to a booth that had a great view of the main street he pulled off. She offered him a menu to which he refused commenting; he wanted the "fantastic" cheeseburger that he saw advertised in the window. She seemed to know what he was talking about and then asked him what he wanted to drink? "Can I get a beer?" She nodded and gave a shortlist of what they had available. He made his selection, and she left to place his order. A brief moment later, she came back with a bottle of some brand, but not what he asked for. "Sorry we were out of everything else, will this do?" she questioned him. Understanding this as the day he was living, he settled with the selection. He popped the top and took the first sip and disappointment read all over his face. 

In the process of a long day that had tested his strength, he took a minute to just relax. He sat at the table eyes closed and began to just breath. Taking in a breath and letting it out. It was as if he was trying to meditate and just clear out all the negative mojo accumulated from the day where nothing was going right. A thought his meditating mind focused on was hoping that cheeseburger would or could be up to the standards he was used to as it would help even out the heck of a day he was already having. 

He took a look at the order of cooks on the line, wondering if he could decipher from their expressions how this cheeseburger was going to turn out. He continued to wait to flip through the text conversation that had been taking up brain space since leaving the office. As he looked up from his phone for a moment, he saw his older waitress walking in his direction. She had a smile on her face and what looked like a cheeseburger and steak fries on a serving tray. She placed the plate on the table in front of him. Visually appetizing, but he wasn't going to say anything till he got a bite. He took a taste, and it wasn't as bad as the beer, but it was no way great or the touch he needed to get out of this funk. He sat back, picking at the food on his plate till eventually, he decided it was time to call it a day. You can't win them all, he thought. He paid his check and walked out. 

He got in his car and just drove around his town, watching couples on a date night and having fun. He drove as if he was in search of something when he pulled into an open lot to just sightsee. He watched the lights, the cars driving by, and the people out on a Friday night. He thought to himself, life wasn't treating him well that day. Looking at the coffee stain on his shirt, he sat on the bumper and hood of his car and just watched the world go by. 

If he were honest, the day would be ok if he just had someone to share the mess of a day living through it, and they'd let him know he was ok. He looked at his phone the text conversation he had been going through all day with the contact name Charity the redhead stayed in his conscious. The look on his face told more of the story behind the texts. He eventually found the nerve to make the call. The phone rang a few times till there was a pickup on the other end. "Hello," a sweet voice answered. "Hey Charity, this is Alex," he replied, reserved. 

"Oh, hey Alex, how have you been?"

"I'm alright, I've had better days."

"I'm glad you called, what are you up to?"

"I was just about to ask you, it's just been a long day."