SPECIAL SPOTLIGHT!!!!!

Hello Everyone!!!

Today for a Special Spotlight i want to highlight a bright and creative young designer. one day while strolling through the http://www.curlynikki.com/ blog i stumbled across a post of a really cute tank that i just had to have.

Lucky for us Nikki posted the information of Miss Dymesha. i contacted her via email and I must tell you that her personality is just a beautiful as her designs. I purchased mine immediately. Just in Case you would like to have a couple of Dymesha pieces in your own closet, she can be reached @ Dymesha dwheeler013@yahoo.com

Also keep checking her blog for updates and the new additions to the collection. trendyteez.blogspot.com

Dymesha you definitely deserve to shine in the spotlight :-)

He's A Crackhead..What would you do???

So, Tuesday evening a guy friend of mine gave me a call just to small talk and catch up. naturally going through the motions of normal small talk procedures, we inquire about each others day. i told him my regular days routine work, school, home work, volunteer, eat and eat again..watch TV. Then he tells me about his day and how he had been wanting to by a GPS device, but was looking for a deal. So, coincidentally a crackhead crossed his path on his way to work and was selling a GPS. So, he purchased the GPS system because he said that the guy was giving him a great deal that he couldn't refuse. After I laughed about 5 minutes, I shared with him that i would never buy an electronic device from a crackhead or any bootlegger sales person. So, he kind got defensive (jokingly) and made a sad attempt at trying to put me on blast for purchasing Cd's from crackheads.. So, i expressed to him (after laughing more) that I don't care if he makes a deal with a crackhead, I could care less about the moral stand point of bootlegging. But Personally i refuse to buy any sort of major purchase from a street vendor knowing full well I can't get a receipt, insurance, store credit, warranty on that Merchandise. I have the worst luck with electronics and devices. I have purchased plenty of things from credible stores and brand new from manufacturers only to have it malfunction in a week or a month. It is one of the main reasons i always keep insurance on my cell phone. So, he knows i need to replace my laptop and he posed the question if i crossed path with a crackhead selling exactly what i need and wanted, would i buy it? Sorry, the answer is NO!!! I am not going to take a chance and buy a laptop from a crackhead cause i know with my luck it will break down in three days and i am screwed! That is just me!!! Now if he has that new Kanye West Mixtape or something for $5, we got a deal...lol What would you do???

SPECIAL SPOTLIGHT!!!!!

*So, I want to introduce a new section to my blog titled "Special Spotlight". I decided to create this feature with the purpose of highlighting a individuals that who's work i enjoy and peple who have won me over as a fan. my 1st featured talent for this section is:

Miss LaShontae "Tae" Heckard.

From first glance you see an amazing beauty, perfect physique, lovely skin, and gorgeous hair (someone that was born to model), but 'Model' doesn't quite capture the essence of LaShontae. Affectionately known to those close to her as "Tae" embodies more than what the physical eye can see. Here you have a woman that is not only a talented actress that has appeared in many shows and a model featured in countless magazines and videos, but you have a woman who has actively served her country in the US army reserve. This brave beauty courageously joined the army and attended college directly after high school. Her passion for people, her down to earth persona, her inner beauty that matches her physical beauty, and her charisma combined with her twisted sense of humor makes her a woman deserving of the spotlight! I wish Tae continued success in every goal she wishes to attain. Blessing Tae from a Fan, Jenna Marie Christian!

Starting A new Chapter!!!!

Who would have thought that one day this sheltered homebody Jen would want to embark on a journey that would leave many of my family members and friends shocked, speechless, and in disbelief... I did!! For the last couple of years I have been pondering the idea of relocating from the only city i have known as home (Chicago). I am now 26 years old and I am quickly approaching my 27th birthday. I thank God, that I have been blessed all of these years. I may not have all of the things that I want at this time, but I have always had everything that i needed. Chicago, my family, and my friends have always been my security blanket. It is hard to leave it, but i am seeking more in life than what this city can offer me right now. I am now ready to open a new door, meeting new people, in a new place, with new challenges, new goals, and new experiences.After a great deal of thought I have decided on a location! I have chosen to go to the big apple, New York!! Yes, i know it is expensive! yes i know it is dirty! No, i have gotten everything planned out just yet. Sure I am nervous , but i am also excited. I am a bit scared, but I am also ready! It is time for this little caterpillar to blossom in a beautiful butterfly and experience everything this world has to offer. I want to accept, enjoy and learn from every destination and lesson, that this journey of life is going to introduce me to. I feel that while I am single, unattached, and I don't have any dependents, it is the perfect time to pack up and skip town to experience something new. Just wish me well, pray for me and support me!!!Blessings,

PS...sorry I have been MIA, but catch me daily on www.twitter.com/1jennamarie

DELETE MY NUMBER FOOL......

So, Last Fall I crossed paths with a certain young man. He was tall, beautifully brown, hair in locs, and a smile to die for. We small talked, exchanged laugh, and exchanged numbers and started to get to know each other. He was a very nice guy, a true gentlemen, and funny, but I realized he was "CRAZY" soon after we met. We went out on 1 date and we had a couple of movie nights, but nothing amazing. I liked him a lot until his behavior begin to change. His crazy started to come through when he began to want to be near me every second. Always want to drop by, or want me to sit at his job(for hours and do nothing), i met the family (all in a matter of two weeks). Initially i just figured he was trying to be a nice guy because he was trying to become my "star player" in my life. Then it started to get worse, he would want to know where i was going, when, where, why, what time, when will i be back, do i want him to drop me off or pick me up. Now I am a sister that needs her space. I don't want you to be all over me and don't expect me to be smother you. This definitely didn't sit well with him. So, since i would refuse his offer to chauffeur me everywhere around the damn city, Sit at his job, and purposely remain busy so that would not be home, he would call all the damn time. I mean like 4 & 5 times back to back within 6 minutes. i wouldn't answer the calls, so he'd leave messages, and then text me. The very first time he exhibited that behavior, i had already decided in my mind that i would not be seeing him again. Unfortunately, it never stopped him from being a "repeat dialer & text-er". Eventually after a couple of months. He stopped!

Well, Saturday morning around 4am, my phone rings. I am livid! I don't know who it is at this point, but i knew for sure that I was about to really give someone a piece of my mind calling me at that hour. everyone who knows me has learned, if you want to speak with me, you better place the call before 10:30pm. After that, you might meet the Jenna that you don't want to ever encounter. Anywoo, when i saw that number i immediately hit "ignore". I refuse to speak to that crazy fool. So, as usual there is a voicemail, i didn't bother listening to the message i just instantly deleted it, but the only thing that was running through my mind was..this is a new year..DELETE MY NUMBER FOOL!!!!..lol

WE DON'T HAVE TO AGREE!!!!!

I've always been a very outspoken, quick tempered, passionate, and stern conversationalist. Since, I have always been this way, my method to prevent any sort of irate reaction on my end due to a disagreement is to just simply avoid all controversial topics, especially the topics that i am more passionate about than others. For some odd reason it seemed as though the last couple of weeks I couldn't run away from such topics even if i was paid to do so. They were all around.

The first issue came into play when my cousin and his came from Arkansas to Chicago to visit for the weekend. Now, my cousin makes it a point to avoid befriending people of color. I've known this about him for some time and even though i don't agree he is my cousin, I love, and i just choose not to really discuss the matter(cause i know I'd get pissed). Now his friend on the other was another special case. He dates interracial (that's fine), but he made it quite clear that he doesn't date people who are "darker" than he is. That is his statement i quoted him exactly. Upon hearing this statement flow from his mouth i begin to feel my blood come to a complete boil. In fact, my blood was boiling over. Discrimination is the subject that pisses me off to the core, especially those that discriminate within their own race. Now at the time that this conversation was taking place there was a room full of beautiful brown sistas, including myself. I felt as though i was in the twilight zone because no one saw a problem with their mentality except me. I was the only one feeling myself get so "fired up" over his ignorance. In fact many of the women in the room felt as though it was okay because it was a "preference", but in my mind i saw it as discrimination and worst of all it was discrimination within his own race. In my opinion a preference is to maybe favor one, but you can enjoy them all (not i like lighter and lighter only). I didn't see how someone of color could ever develop the mentality that one shade is better or more appealing than the other. I couldn't comprehend how two black men, especially from the south couldn't see how beautiful our culture was and appreciate it. in fact it pissed me off to see black men being okay with living by the house nigga/field nigga mentality. It seemed like such a disgrace to me and no one was angry except me. In fact I was so infuriated that i left the house for the entire day in hopes that all of those fools would have been gone by the time that i returned.

Then later in the week I ended up having a discussion about sexuality. An individual asked me do I feel as though people can be born gay or not. Now, I was brought up in an overly religious household and church where I am taught to believe that being gay is "wrong, wrong, wrong". I have encountered so many people who are so hateful toward gay people and the person I was having this conversation with was one of those "religious I can't stand gay people" types. It makes me so angry because I have friends who are gay. I am personally offended to have people in my life being judged, hated, and mistreated due to their sexuality. Most of the people that preach about how big of a "SIN" homosexuality is are sinning all day everyday themselves. The last time I checked fornication is a sin, lying is a sin, cheating is a sin, cursing is a sin, drinking is a sin, lusting is a sin, putting everything and everybody before God is a sin. So, it seems to me that we are all guilty of sinning. The world is full of sin so before we start judging & hating people trying to find out were they born a certain way. Why don't we do some soul searching on our end. God made us all. He loves us all. In my opinion "Can someone be born gay"? I have no idea and in fact i don't care. I love all people and I accept people for who they are. I am sure that if you feel as though you are so perfect, someone could point on a flaw or two that you can check yourself on.

The next topic i try to avoid is politics. I work around the most hard core republicans and sometimes these conversations can take a turn for the worst. in fact i remember reporting to work the very next day after President Obama had been elected. It was definitely a joyous day for myself and others that are happy to see some change taking place in this country, but many of my coworkers were not thrilled (that was expected). The moment that stands out the most to me about being in the office that day is when one of the brokers were being teased and asked "What was he going to do now"? his reply was "I am going to do what the rest of the world will be doing, that's suffering". I heard him loud and clear and I went off (and cursed a time or so). I got a "lil crunk"..lol So, I ended up being reprimanded for cursing in the office.

Then I had to have the abortion conversation. Personally, I feel as though it should be an individual choice with the right to decide what to do with your own body. Who am I, to tell you what you should and shouldn't do. I don't know your situation and I am not going to judge another person decisions regardless of their circumstances. I don't think any woman would be thrilled or nonchalant about having to consider eliminating a life. It is tough enough trying to put everything into perspective, the last thing you need is someone shoving judgemental views in your ear.

The funny thing is after having all of these conversations in one week had my energy and mood so tossed around I thought I was getting my period, but it was a coworker who had a chat with me and my cousin cassie who helped me see the light. i don't have to fight every battle, I don't have to persuade you to see my side, and i for damn sure don't have to see your side. The bottom line is We Don't Have To Agree and I don't have to let the mentality of another piss me off. My practice is definitely to always try my best to avoid such controversial conversations, but i know now that it's okay to disagree and when everything is said and done. I can still walk away from the conversation the same way it started as a GROWN WOMAN WITH MY OWN OPINION!!!!! and guess what YALL DON'T HAVE TO AGREE...lol Happy Sunday Peeps.. I've missed you all!

A New beginning.... Vegetarianism!!!!

After a long and difficult battle (with myself), I have finally decided to transition into a world i use to believe was equivalent to Death, VEGETARIANISM!!!!

This was definitely an incredibly difficult decision to make, but i honestly feel as though it is the best thing for me in the long run. I have always had a strong appreciation for all kinds of good food. My appetite has definitely caught many people by surprise, including grown men who couldn't out eat me if they tried..lol Really?? My coworkers and i had our own private meat eating contest and FOGO DE CHAO and i don't have to tell you who beat 3 men and 2 other women in the competition...me!!!! As the years go buy i realize that my eating habits have been the reason my health has started to decline drastically. I've definitely put on a few pounds, but the more severe issues are my concern.

First i begin to notice how my energy is so low. I literally feel drained all day long. The most simple task seem like such a challenge. next, i started to notice how i would constantly get a common cold (it was rare that i would catch a cold in the past), Then to top it all off I started having trouble with fluid and foolishness in my lungs and couldn't breath. for some reason at the age of 26, I developed Bronchitis. It was so shocking because there isn't a history of bronchitis or Asthma in my family at all.

with all of that swirling around in my mind, i decided that may be i should make better efforts toward improving my health and maintaining a better lifestyle.

I've been doing quite a bit of research about it and I've been looking at a few books that i will purchase to gain more insight.

My first step into this lifestyle is officially breakup with the cow. He has been so good to me, delivering such perfect steaks, juicy cheeseburgers, mouth watering Italian beefs :-( it's been real Mr. cow. i will miss you..lol That's my first baby step in my new life. I'll keep you all informed on my progress.

sending caramel kisses

Karma is a B*T*H, but Revenge can be worse :-)

I found this post on one of my favorite forums and had to share it with you all...i found it hilarious and disturbing at the same time...

so be careful how you treat people because there are all sorts of ways to get you back...

What is the worst thing you have done to get revenge on your Man/Woman when they made u Mad? A million and one trifling things I had thought about doing in the past came to mind but none as insane as some out some of these responses:

1.I cut up aluminum foil in little pieces and put it under his Leftovers and when he put it in the microwave……POW!!!!

2.My cousin put rubbing alcohol in her ex’s visine bottle after she found out he cheated… Had to wear a patch 4 a few dayz.

3.I took some dog food and mixed it in her hamburger helper.. haha, she cheated and she paid!!

4. I slept with my sideline boo in my home on my bed and didn’t change the sheets and the same night he laid right in all the juices.

5. Was dating the mom, she jumped fly, so I knocked down the daughter as revenge. Glad I grew up.

6.Hand Job using ICY HOT!!!!!

7.I f*cked her best friend and her cousin. not proud of it, but hey desperate times call for desperate measures

8. Moved 4 hrs away and the next week paid all my bills electronically with his whole check! I put soap on his tooth brush , put bleach on his clothes and washed it as usual and … make his food super spicy.

9.I found out this guy cheated on me so I log into his MSN blog anonymously and told all his females he has genital ..

**People Are Crazy****

What's the Worst thing you've done to get revenge?

Excerise Myths...

By now many of you know, i battle with my 'working out' regimen. one thing i want to get in order ASAP are the "Ab's". We all know that having a gut is the biggest wardrobe malfunction a woman could have...lol

so i found a few tips and myth busters to help us along the way and getting those abs that we desire...

1. Myth: To get rock-hard, you have to work your abs every day.Why: Abs need rest and recovery: It's only during rest that your muscles build. "Three to five days a week of consistent, dedicated abdominal training should get you strong, sleek abs," says Kathy Kaehler, trainer and author of Kathy Kaehler's Celebrity Workouts.

2. Myth: A good ab workout takes half an hour.Why: "If it takes you that long to feel them working, you're doing something wrong," says Kaehler. "I trained Jennifer Aniston about three days a week, and we did no more than five minutes of abs each time." Check your form, don't use momentum and focus on quality rather than quantity.

3. Myth: Super-slow crunches make you stronger.Why: Taking as much as a minute per crunch doesn't make you stronger than regular crunches do. In fact, ultra-slow ab work is less effective. Ideally, your workout should help you do everything better, from kickboxing to picking up a suitcase - neither of which you do in slo-mo.

4. Myth: The best time to train your abs is at the end of your workout.Why: "It makes no physiological difference when you train abs, it only matters that you do it consistently," says abs researcher and physical therapist Gilbert Willett, M.S., associate professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. So the best time to work them is simply whenever you're most likely to do it. "But if you do abs at the beginning of your workout, make sure you warm up first. Getting blood moving prevents many types of injuries during a workout."

5. Myth: You can't get a six-pack by doing Pilates.Why: "Pilates exercises your core, so if you practice it regularly and combine it with diet and cardio, it can give you a six-pack," says Kimberly Lyons, a personal trainer in L.A. But Pilates isn't a six-pack guarantee. "How your abs look has a lot to do with your genes, how lean you are, how long your torso is and how tall you are."

6. Myth: You won't get firm without a weight machine.Why: You don't need weights to build sleek and sexy abs, although some competitive athletes do use them to build extra strength. "Many weighted ab machines aren't designed for women," says Lyons. "If you don't fit into the machine properly, you might stress your body in the wrong spot." Her advice: Stick to the floor - it's cheap, effective and available everywhere.

Share some of your tips that are helping you get "fit" for the summer!!!

Follow My "tweets" or "twits"...lol

Hey Loves,

Your Girl is finally on twitter. So, look me up and send out a shout www.twitter.com/1Jennamarie

Later,
Jenna

If you missed it.....

if you all missed the chicago bloggers Girlfriend to Girlfriend Happy Hour on last Friday..you missed one hell of a good time!!! Maybe South Loop will Plan something else soon and you all can come out...

here is a snapshot!!

Random "Ish" on my Mind!!!!

1. has anyone else heard the rumor about Jennifer Hudson being "preggers". I surely hope that is false, because i swear her "boo" seems a little suspect to me.. (i know i am not the only one who thinks so)

2. I read that Janet Jackson takes 'Human Growth Hormones" to aid her in her rapid weightloss. supposedly, HGH Injections help decrease fat, slow aging, and boost stamina. but hasn't her body been through enough ups and downs (literally and figuratively speaking)..lol

3. Jill Scott had her baby 'jett Hamilton Roberts' is 7lbs and 8 ounces :-) I am happy for her!!

4. i really want to support Ciara with this latest D, but Cici really hasn't given anything to work with this time around :-(

5. TV shopping has become an addiction for me. i just purchased the Time life/Motown Cd collection with my free dvd for ordering while watching the Advertisement...lol Damn that Billy dee Williams for hosting that half hour segment..lol

6. i truly hate desperation, If I have politely turned you down once, please don't follow me around the CVS, just continue to restock the band aids and let me go about my business..lol

7. Why is that school seems to take forever to complete, but those tuition payments come around very quickly.

8. I've been volunteering a lot more these days, but as much as these organizations say they want the help..why does it take them so dang long to call a sista back..lol

just my random 'ish' for the day :-)

Behind Every Good Man, there is a Woman rolling her Eyes :-)

an adult male person, as distinguished from a boy

Similar to many women, i have my gripes and complaints about men. Many of you know I will go into a full blown tirade on my blog about my disappointments with some of the men in the world today. From the immature, to the"purposely" unemployed, to the grown guys living with their parents, the incarcerated, and the"players". It can almost seem hopeless, but i am very optimistic. I know that there are plenty of amazing men that are in existence all over. They are rare, but they do exist.

So, Today i want to acknowledge all of the true Gentlemen. The civilized, educated, sensitive, and well-mannered. The independent, goal oriented, intelligent, suave, honest, and good family man. i don't mention celebrate them enough. I also want to give credit to all of the women in their lives that helped whipped these men into shape. I want to celebrate of all of the mothers that nurtured, loved, taught, and disciplined these gentlemen. I want to acknowledge all of the sisters who had to sternly give their brothers the reality check needed when they got out of line ( it is not easy, i got two brothers), and of course I have to give credit to all of the women who have had to endure a great deal of foolishness just to get a man to be a man.

Many of the good men today had a few strong women in their lives to help them reach the success at a level many of them had deemed unattainable. So, as I celebrate all of the great men out there, i want to celebrate all of the women that helped them reach that point. (Michelle O'bama, Coretta Scott King, Betty Shabazz)..and the list goes on...

So, Men remember "Behind Every Great Man, There Is A Woman Rolling her Eyes"...lol

I Wonder...

1. Why is Chris Brown pleading not guilty when we all know full well that he clearly kicked Rihanna's A**

2. Why are people so tough on our 1st lady's wardrobe.. Personally, I think she looks great all the time.

3. Have you noticed many of the reporters that refer to the President as only "Barack"... I don't recall any other Presidents simply being call George, Bill, John...etc

4. Why is it still snowing every two days in chicago. I mean it is the Spring Season, Easter is near.

5. Is anyone else tired of Christina Milian & the dream sightings. She is still not going to sell albums, and please give beyonce back her blonde lace front wig

6. Am I the only fool that's still tuning in to see America's Next Top Model 26..this show has been on forever;-)

I'm just wondering...

My Name Is "Jen"....

Hello Beauties,

I have to tell you all what has been on my mind lately. I am so disappointed in the way today's young men refer to women. I am appalled at how young men attempt to approach young women, and I am disgusted by the "terms of endearment" that many of these fellas will use to get your attention. Lately, i have lost my ability to deal with of ignorance as my twin "South Loop Social Light" would say "I am allergic"..lol I have become "Allergic" to immature young fools, who don't have a clue as to what a "gentlemen" is.

What has happened to the days of a man getting out of his car to speak to a young lady? How in the world is it that a guy will some how come to the decision that honking the horn at a woman and yelling out something incredibly ignorant like "Ah Shawty" is going to really get them a greeting from a woman. What happened to men being able to compliment a woman by using the most simple, but yet powerful words. Just simply saying, you look beautiful, but with today's young men you get "Ah Girl, you fine as hell" and i also remember being called a sexi m*thafuc*....I can count how many times I have been left in disbelief when i think about all of the crazy encounters i have had to endure. The worst are all of the names that they choose to call women 'shawty, ma, ah bay bay, lil mama"..the list goes on. Don't even get me started on the men who become angry because there approach was extra wack and now they are offended simply because they thought their "game" was tight and want to yell out obscenities toward you.

When will some of these young men realize that when you are approaching it is best to just be kind, use common courtesy, and know that less is more. "Game is not necessary or relevant. Simply stop her with an excuse me, follow up with a greeting like "hi, how are you?", you can even through in "My name is (blank)?", and that approach just may get the person to pause, smile, and say "Hi, My name is Jen" :-)

love you all!!!!

KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF!!!!!!

i must admit, I have grown extremely tired of the entire Chris Brown and Rihanna situation. I think every talk show host, radio personality, entertainer, magazine, and blogger have all expressed their views on domestic abuse and Chris/Rihanna's situation in it's entirety.

Many have mentioned how Abuse of any sort is definitely unacceptable and I do agree. No one should ever have to endure being harmed or threatened whether it be physically, mentally, or emotionally. The problem that i had with most of these show is that it seemed so "one sided". It always places the "woman" as the victim (i know most domestic abuse cases are female victims).

I agree that a man should never ever put his hands on a woman, but i also believe that a woman should never ever put her hands on a man. I am the youngest of 3 children. i have two older brothers. Growing up with two boys that are 9 and ten years older than you, you learn so much from their relationships. I have seen the roughest, wildest, and most irrational women that you never want any of your love ones to encounter. i am talking about women who will break my brothers belongings, hit him, smack him, punch him, put their hands all in his face, yell obscenities, plain ignorant. Women who will lash out because they know "Most men won't hit a woman" and it is not right to provoke someone due to your own anger and aggravation because you know or "think you know" that they won't hit you back. I would have preferred if at least one show or personality could have stressed that "EVERYONE" should practice "KEEPING YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF". I in no way at all agree with putting my hands on another human being. I was taught early on as a child to "keep my hands to myself".

Although this one rule won't be the solution to avoid and "end all" to every domestic abuse case, I do believe that if Many people of "BOTH GENDERS" learn how to effectively communicate and articulate their feelings to each other without raising their voices or their hands, a lot of these cases wouldn't exist today. So, instead of preaching "Men Should Never Hit Women", "Preach Don't Hit Another Person, Unless You are Prepared to Get Hit Back"...

I know I may get a little "Heat" for this but...It's All Good!! Nothing Wrong with a healthy Discussion :)

Where My Girls At!!!!!!!!

I absolutely love my online "Girlfriends". i almost feel as though I am on a webisode of "Harlem Heights, meets TV show Girlfriends online"...lol

Well, My online twin/bff "South Loop Social Light" http://ishea.blogspot.com/ has decided to host a happy hour where all of the young, fabulous, and ambitious women can unite over a beverage and laugh, talk, listen, and learn from each other. Date: April 17th around 6pm-ish. I will keep you all posted on the location. This will be so much fun and you know I will be there!!!!

We all need our Girlfriends, so come join us:-)

ERRO IS COMING!!!!

As many of you know I am a huge Eric Roberson fan (yes, even after he got married on me).lol The Man can create somegreat music and his voice is so amazing to me:-) Well, Guess who will be in my city (Chicago) This Weekend?????

ERIC ROBERSON!!!! (WHOOHOOO)...lol

So, If any of you are interested inattending, he will be performing at the Double Door This Friday, March 27, 2009 @ 9pm 1527 N. Milwaukee. cal them for info 773-489-3160 or go to ticketmaster.com

YOU ALL KNOW THATI WILL BE THERE!!!!!!!!!

'Dog Gon' truth

So, I am an animal lover and like so many others my dog "Diamond" is an irreplaceable member of my family. As a kid "pet care" never really crossed my mind. I enjoyed playing with the dog, washing the dog, and walking the dog. As as adult I have realized that there is a great deal more that goes into being an awesome "pet owner". Their health care and food expenses can add up and become quite costly.

Diamond is my 1 year old female pit (pictured above). Isn't she cute :-) Since having her I have learned some of the strangest things.

1. Female Dogs get their menstrual cycle. As ignorant as it sounds, I had no clue that a dog gets her period and i was a bit shocked when Diamond began her "cycles"...lol

2. This pass weekend, my dog has been a little moody and awkward..guess what.. My baby girl had a yeast infection (in her ear)...lol Who knew such a thing could happen??..lol

Share your "I didn't know" pet stories!!!

Never Too Late...

As Many of you all know, One of my goals this year to try not to complain, but remain positive. In my attempt to remain positive, I have decided to revisit an old "goal". i have always had such a strong appreciation for the "Arts". I love to "view" paintings, sketches, read poetry, day dream with beautiful photography, i find myself drifting into a different place with cultural dances. I Love, Love, Love, the "Arts".. but I have aways secretly wanted sketch. I think it is truly a God given Gift to be able to sit and look at anything and sketch that image on a sketch pad..

I let that little desire slip away long ago feeling as though it is a skill that i should have started as a child and should not focus on it anymore... Well at my attempt to dismiss miss the "old/negative" thoughts and bring the "new/positive" to my reality, I purchased "Figure Drawings For Dummies"...lol I am going to sketch my little heart out because now I know that no matter what your age may be or what goals you want to achieve.. "It is never TOO LATE, to tackle a new challenge...

Happy Monday!!!!!

Self Inflicted Wounds

Life is full of so many experiences. Some are good and some are bad. I like to use each life experience as an opportunity to learn a lesson. A recent lesson I learned with my life is about a self inflicted wound.
Have you ever purposely entered a situation knowing that it had "Wrong" written all over it? Instead of listening to your gut feeling or what I like to call the "Holy Spirit", you follow your own personal and selfish desires. The problem with doing what we want to do instead of following the path of righteousness is that, our own particular road will lead us into places we may not expect. Often time that road leads to some sort of disaster that we want to get out of, but instead of blaming ourselves for ending up in a big mess, we blame someone else, and even worse many times we blame God for allowing it to happen.
Although it is so strange, it is true. We are mad at the bank when a check bounces, but not upset with ourselves for not being financially responsible. We are mad at our children for misbehaving, but not angry with ourselves for not "Training up a child in the way that he/she should go". We slam our finger in the car, but we get mad at the door. We are upset when your mate looked like prince charming, but in reality he is Freddie Kruger with 2 baby mama's. Most of our drama is often the cause of our own faulty decisions.
So, make wiser decisions for your life. Life will always have its good and bad, but you don't want to increase the bad times, by avoiding the option of making a good decision. Be Careful of Self inflicted wounds yall.
Be Blessed,
Jen!

Nine Words Every Man Should Know

9 WORDS WOMEN USE:

(1) Fine: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

(2) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

(3) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with noth ing usually end in fine.

(4) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

(5) Loud Sigh: This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to 3 for the meaning of nothing.)

(6) That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

(7) Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or Faint. Just say you're welcome. (I want to add in a clause here - This is true, unless she says "Thanks a lot" - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say "you're welcome" ... that will bring on a "whatever").

(8) Whatever: Is a women's way of saying ____ YOU!

(9) Don't worry about it, I got it: Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking "What's wrong?" For the woman's response refer to 3.ANY QUESTIONS??????????????????????? let me know!!!

Myspace: From my inbox to yours...

*** As many of you know I find some of the "characters" on myspace incredibly hilarious and instead of being bothered and aggravated by some of the foolishness i receive, I've learned to find the humor in them and share it with others... The boldness and arrogance amazes me...ENJOY!!!!!

Note 1.How are you doing beautiful??I was just lettin u know that I do like what I see..you definitely are looking good on the outside,but I am more interested in seeing what kind of woman you are underneath all of that beauty. So my question for you is,would that be possible???Believe me I wont be a waste of your time.

Note 2: i'd like to perform in ur city..demand it..thanks 4 your support

Note 3:what's good sexy,i'm hitting you up because i work for comcast and i can get you cable with all the channels,free ondemand,and payperview,and internet and house phone with no monthly bill even if you already have comcast already so if you don't have cable or already have it and your paying to much,you should become one my customers,so hit me back if your interested and i'll give you all the details

note4: I WAS CHECKING MY FRIEND COMPUTER OUT AND SEEN YOUR PROFILE AND HOW U WRITING A BOOK AND ALL..I THINK THAT'S A GOOD LOOK..I TRYING 2 GET EVERYBODY 2 LISTEN AND ADD 1 OF MY TRACKS 2 THEIR PAGE...I DON'T WANNA BE A BUG-A-BOO, BUT IF U GET TIME CHECK EM OUT...BUT WARNING..ONCE U GET HOOKED, THAT'S ALL SHE WROTE..

note5:Hi there.... FYI, I am using my friend's account to send this message. If you wanna write back, please use this address: riplerb@yahoo. I'll send you some pictures of me if you do. We like to know who we are talking to, right?I'm looking to meet some cool (and good looking) guys to chat with....and maybe hang out with if the mood strikes. I gotta go� good luck!

note6:Hit me up on IM

note 7: i wanna know u

note 8:hey i'm a young arthor too sitting on 5 boooks right now looking for a publishing comANY SSO HOW MMUCH DID URS COST AND ERTC AND U FINE!O I SAY THI TOO.nice pic sexy come and check ou my page and tel me if u limke what u see

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE!!!!

Times seem to be a little rough for everyone right now. Although we all may be battling a variety of different situations, i have found that in this moment "Laughter is Truly The best Medicine" for whatever it is you may be going through.

Personally, I have my "up and down" moments just like anyone else. I also struggle with finance, romance, academics, health, fitness, family, career, and even spirituality. Fortunately, I have found out that laughter through any trial seems to put me back into a positive state of mind.

Studies also show that Humor Therapy has various benefits with the mind, body, and spirit:

1. Manage your hormones.

Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, adrenaline, dopamine and growth hormone. It also increases the level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins, and neurotransmitters. Laughter increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the efficiency of T-cells. All this means a stronger immune system, as well as fewer physical effects of stress.

2.Nice internal workout

A good belly laugh exercises the diaphragm, contracts the abs and even works out the shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed afterward. It even provides a good workout for the heart. Laughing 100 times is the equivalent to 10 minutes on the rowing machine or 15 minutes on an exercise bike!

3.Physical release

Have you ever felt like you had to laugh or you’d cry? Have you experienced the cleansed feeling after a good laugh? Laughter provides a physical and emotional release

4.Positive frame of mind.

Laughter brings the focus away from anger, guilt, stress and negative emotions to them alongside other “mere distractions.” It will make you cheerful and put you in a positive frame of mind.

5.Change your perspective.

Researchers found that our response to stressful events can be altered by whether we view something as a “threat” or a “challenge.” Humor can give us a more light-hearted perspective and help us view events as “challenges,” thereby making them less threatening and more positive.

6. Social benefits of laughter

Laughter is contagious, so if you bring more laughter into your life, you can most likely help others around you laugh more. By elevating the mood of those around you, you can diminish their stress levels, and possibly improve the quality of social interaction you experience with them, reducing your stress level even more!
What’s even better is that the more you smile, the more others will too. Seeing a smile creates what is termed as a “halo effect,” helping us to remember other happy events more vividly, feel more optimistic, more positive and more motivated.

7.Fight illness better

People who are optimistic (who are out there laughing!) have stronger immune systems and are actually able to fight off illness better than pessimists.
The research is very clear — this is not some social science generalization — there is a link between optimistic attitudes and good health. And it has been measured in a variety of ways. Overall, scientists have found that optimistic people are healthier. Their biological makeup is different and they have a more robust immune system.

So Grab your girls, an old eddie murphy classic, and laugh it up (it will make you feel much better)..

Your Bill may still be due, homework will still need to be done, alarm will still go off at 6am for you to get ready for work, but at least you know you're not alone and we will all laugh about it later:-)

NEVER ASK ANOTHER WOMAN!!!!

Ladies, many of us know the unwritten "rules" regarding certain questions that you should never ask another woman. It just seems as of lately some of "us' are getting a little too familiar with each other and placing the "rule book" to the side..Example:

I am sitting at my desk and I am in the process of being assisted with a new application that has just been implemented on the office PC by one of the trainers(female) sent to help the firm for the week. Now, as we are working through a small problem another office associate(female) walks up to my desk and she began to small talk a little as we are working. All of a sudden the office Associate asked the Trainer "When Was She Due"? The problem with that question in this particular case is... THE TRAINER WASN'T PREGNANT!!!! Now there is an awkward silence amongst all of us and the office associate excuses herself from the conversation and I am left to pick up the pieces of the conversation along with this ladies self-confidence for the day... Shame on it all. So, for this reason, I want to list a few questions that a woman should never ask another woman. (exceptions are relatives, friends, and close acquaintances)...

1. When Are you Due? (To prevent a similar occurrence of the story listed above as we see, my girl was just "thick" )

2. Is That your real hair? (many of my sistas can/will proudly, fabulously, and elegantly rock their weave, but whether it is theirs or not is none of your business, just compliment the style and keep it moving)

3. Have you gained weight? (Apparently she has if you need to pose the question, but why ask..that's just rude)

Later Babes.....

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL!!!!!!!

For the last few years I have been slightly disappointed in the music and "entertainers" that seem to have taken over the music industry as a whole. It actually pains me that good quality music by real musical geniuses and gifted vocalist seem to rarely ever get the credit,praise, attention, sales, and promotion that they actually deserve.

So, today I want to post the artist that i feel create great music that touches the heart, mind, soul, and lifts your spirit. These are the artist that I believe are ttruly deserving of all of the awards, interviews, magazine covers, and accolades... So, in my efforts to support the best of the best in music top underrated TRUE SOUL MUSIC..I want to share My Top Ten TRUE SOUL MUSIC ARTIS OF THE YEAR!!!!!

SOUL MUSIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR

1. Eric Roberson

2. India Arie

3. Musiq Soulchild

4. Jill Scott

5. Raheem Devaughn

6. Angie Stone

7. Kem

8. Goepele

9. Ledisi

10. Rachelle Ferrel

Who are the artist on your list?

The People On Social networking sites?????

Why is that these social networking pages seem to bring out the inner "mack"with every fool who created a page. I mean a girl can only tolerate so many "What's Good" notes a day anddon't even get me started on the people that actual give you their introduction, stats, and phone number all in one note...talk about desparation...

here is one of my faves:

hey mama dis mykell
Body:
how u doing mama just hit u up to say u look very intelligent smart and full of luv something i luv un a woman i dont want to hold u up i just wanted to tell u that hit me up if u want to

or this one is good: (sent from some girl)
hi my name is Michelle i am on my mans profile and asking iwth no disrespect to you. I was tring to change things up in our relationship and he said i can bring someone else in our bedroom i wanna excperince another woman. Would u b interested in satisying our fantasy?

Here is another...
wass up baby will you call me at 17*3 3*5 6**8

SMH to the fools on myspace..lol

Quote For Today!!!!

If You Don't Like Something, change it! If you can't change it, Change your attitude, but don't complain. Maya Angelou

I am convinced that 2009 is my year to shine. I am sure that we all have goals. I have a few personal goals, career goals, academic goals, short term goals, long term goals..I could go on forever:-) I often find myself complaining about things in my situation, but ultimately, i do have the power to make some things a little better with more work, dedication, and determination on my part.

My point is that one of those goals is to make it my business not to complain, but change any situation that i am not comfortable with or happy living in. I am dedicated to exuding a more positive outlook in general. I remember asking an old employer of mine, how he seemed to come into so much luck/blessings and he simply replied "It is the Power Of Positive Thinking" I am a firm believer that with the good Lord, Positive thinking, more work, less complaining.. i will be shining in no time:-)

Happy Wednesday My Dears With Caramel kisses,
jenna marie

Black History is also America's History (SO RECOGNIZE)!!

Black History is also America's History (SO RECOGNIZE)!!

As may of us know, The month of February is nationally known as "Black History Month". Unfortunately, in our country today many people still go each day without recognizing the many of the contributions, inventions, and developments that African Americans have created to make our world a better place for everyone. After having a recent conversation with my favorite Aunt. We discussed the blantant dismissal of our efforts toward our communities and society as a whole, by other races.

I was reading a local school paper where the students are predominantly White Americans, and the particular articles posed the question "Why is Black History Month Important To African Americans"? My first problem with this question is that, i feel as though the question should have been posed in a manner to inquire as to "Why Black history Month is Important To each of us as an individual"? The second part that bothered me was the fact that many of the students responded so ignorantly saying things such as "It is important to "them", so that they know they did something good for the country"???? "Them"??? Another response was "so, "they" know that they can do anything...

As far as i know many of the African Americans inventors created products, machines, and appliances that the entire world benefits from.

*The idea of a blood bank was pioneered by Dr. Charles Richard Drew (1904-1950). Dr. Drew was an American medical doctor and surgeon who started the idea of a blood bank and a system for the long term preservation of blood plasma (he found that plasma kept longer than whole blood).

*CRUM, GEORGEThe potato chip was invented in 1853 by George Crum. Crum was a Native American/African American chef at the Moon Lake Lodge resort in Saratoga Springs, New York, USA. French fries were popular at the restaurant and one day a diner complained that the fries were too thick.

*CARVER, GEORGE WASHINGTONGeorge Washington Carver (1865?-1943) was an American scientist, educator, humanitarian, and former slave. Carver developed hundreds of products from peanuts, sweet potatoes, pecans, and soybeans; his discoveries greatly improved the agricultural output and the health of Southern farmers.

*DORTICUS, CLATONIA JOAQUINClatonia Joaquin Dorticus was an African-American inventor who received many patents. He invented an apparatus for applying dyes to the sides of the soles and heels of shoes (patent # 535,820, March 19, 1895), a machine for embossing (contouring the paper of) photographs (patent # 537,442, April 16, 1895), a device that helped develop photographs (patent # 537,968, April 23, 1895), and a leak stopper for hoses (patent # 629,315, July 18, 1899).

*DOWNING, PHILIP B.The street letter drop mailbox with a hinged door that closed to protect the mail was invented by Philip B. Downing. Downing, an African-American inventor, patented his new device on October 27, 1891 (US Patent # 462,096).

*GAS MASKThe gas mask was invented by Garrett Morgan, an African-American inventor. Morgan used his gas mask (patent No. 1,090,936, 1914) to rescue miners who were trapped underground in a noxious mine. Soon after, Morgan was asked to produce gas masks for the US Army. For more information on Garrett Morgan, click here.

*GOODE, SARAH S.Sarah E. Goode was a businesswoman and inventor. Goode invented the folding cabinet bed, a space-saver that folded up against the wall into a cabinet. When folded up, it could be used as a desk, complete with compartments for stationery and writing supplies. Goode owned a furniture store in Chicago, Illinois, and invented the bed for people living in small apartments. Goode's patent was the first one obtained by an African-American woman inventor (patent #322,177, approved on July 14, 1885).

*LATIMER, LEWIS H.Lewis Howard Latimer (1848-1928) was an African-American inventor who was a member of Edison's research team, which was called "Edison's Pioneers." Latimer improved the newly-invented incandescent light bulb by inventing a carbon filament (which he patented in 1881).
For more information on Lewis Howard Latimer, click here.

When will people recognize that "Black history" is apart of American History and should not only be respeted by the African Amerians, but by Americans period!

Dumb Statement of The Day!!!

So, I am minding my own business at my desk and one of my co-workers are speaking way too loudly on their telephone. Anyway, by the way the conversation is going, I can tell that he is being told about a recent health diagnosis of an acquaintance and with no compassion in his voice at all he says "WELL, PROSTATE CANCER ISN'T ALL THAT BAD"......WTF

I am sorry, in my opinion all cancers are "bad". I don't an once of anything cancerous found anywhere in or near me...those are just my thoughts...

Do you have any "Dumb Ish For the Day to Discuss"

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM ME TO YOU!!!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!!

I WANT TO SINCERELY WISH ALL OF YOU A VERY HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FULL OF JOY, LAUGHTER, PEACE, AND PLENTY OF GENUINE LOVE ;-)

WITH LOTS OF CARAMEL KISSES,

JENNA MARIE CHRISTIAN

Quote For The Day..By My hero/She-Ro Maya Angelou

I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life's a bitch. You've got to go out and kick ass. Maya Angelou

2009 is definitely our year to let our stars shine as bright as possible! No More Excuses, No More Complaining, and No More procrastinating. Just get up and do it! We will have the world at our feet in no time:-)

THAT'S MY MAN MOMENT!

MICHAEL EALY!!!!!

As many of you know by now, I have a very quirky personality and twisted sense of humor. One of the quirky things that happen to me often is that I have a "That is my man" moments with people that i have never met ever. In an earlier posting I discussed my heartbreak when Eric Robersen got married on me...lol

Now, My next issue is, I am a Beyonce fan and all, but i got to tell you that I wasn't all that excited when i saw Michael Ealy in her "Halo" Video, Cause that is my man...lol

Share Your That's My Man Moment...

TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE!!!!

25 TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE - 2009

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.


2 . Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.


3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose is to __________ today.'


4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.

5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.


7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.


8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.


9. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.


10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.


11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.


12. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.


13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.


14. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.


15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.


16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'


17. Forgive everyone for everything.


18. What other people think of you is none of your business.


19. Faith in God (something larger than yourself) helps heal almost everything.


20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.


21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.


22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.


23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished _________.


24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.


25. Please Forward this to everyone you care about.


26. PRAY ALL DAY!!!!!

PLEASE SHARE YOUR TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE!!!

Caramel Kisses,

Jenna Marie

Son Of Minister T.D. Jakes Arrested

T.D. Jakes Son Arrested!

Jermaine Jakes, son of Dallas pastor T.D. Jakes, was arrested on a charge of indecent exposure in January, 2009. This mug shot is from 2003.
According to a Dallas Police report, Jermaine Jakes was charged with indecent exposure on Jan. 3 after the incident at Keist Park.
The police affidavit says that Jakes walked up to one of the two detectives at the park with his pants unzipped. He then began to masturbate while making eye contact with the detective, according to the document.
Faith Johnson, an attorney for Jermaine Jakes, issued a statement that read: “We are aware of potential allegations involving Jermaine Jakes and are undertaking our own investigation of these allegations at this time. Given an apparent government investigation, we have no further comment at this time.”
Jermaine’s father is the renowned pastor of the 30,000-member mega-church Potter’s House in Dallas.
(sourcebet)

The Price for Beauty, At Any Cost!!!!!

THE PRICE OF BEAUTY, AT ANY COST!!!

By: Jenna Marie Christian

I am sure many of us have heard or read about the very recent news regarding Tameka Foster-Raymond (Wife of R&B Singer Usher) who recently went in to cardiac arrest after having complications from a cosmetic Surgery. This is the second public figure to suffer almost fatally. I am sure many of also remember Donda West (Mother of Rapper Kanye West) Who passed away due to complications from cosmetic surgery. These two unfortunate turn of events just made me even more disgruntle about the American Beauty Standard and the affect it has on impressionable young girls, teens, and adult women.

It is perfectly normal to want to feel as though you are a beautiful person (no arrogance intended). It is second nature to want those around you to also view you as sexy and gorgeous. It is just so unfortunate that Today's Society has allowed the medias ideologies of beauty to saturate the minds of so many, leading many men and women to think that Beauty only appears in the form of Beyonce, Halle Berry, Alicia keys, Tyra Banks, and Heidi Klum Clones. Which Then forces women into a battle of endless insecurity, unhealthy dieting methods, fasting, pills, laxatives, and now the most drastic Cosmetic Surgeries.

In past years Cosmetic product companies have always been a very lucrative business between eye shadows, lipsticks, cleansers, and age-less skin creams, these companies bring in more than $ 7 billion dollars a year. Now women are starting to spend more and more money on cosmetic surgical and non surgical procedures. In 2008 over $5.3 billion was earned in the US for cosmetic surgeries. People are getting work on their nose, chin, eyes, stomach, buttocks, liposuction, fat transfers, and breast augmentations. Girls as young as 18 are beginning to get surgeries as gifts for birthdays and graduations.

It is so sad many women and teens are turning to these surgeries to increase their beauty and sex appeal. I find it so sad that due to this unrealistic standard of beauty it is has become so common to be discriminated against based on your physical appearance by men, employers, and even those that may serve the public. It is common today to see that someone may be receiving better service due to being "beautiful". It becomes even more depressing when I think about how the discrimination goes on within the African American Community alone. It is so disheartening to think about all of the African Americans that play into the Beauty Standards and discriminate against those that view dark skin as unattractive (but I digress).

Women and Young Girls Are literally killing themselves just to fit some bogus beauty image that many of that are seen in these commercials, magazines, videos, and film. I wish we would all realize that we are beautiful. The awesome part to that is that we are all "uniquely" beautiful. I cannot be you and you cannot be me, but I can still respect, admire, and appreciate everything about you without feeling inferior about myself. There is no reason to take such risky methods that may cost a person their life. That is such a high price to pay. There is anything wrong with wanting to be beautiful , shake a few pounds, and do the things that you desire to increase your self esteem, but please try and find safer methods to go about getting the desired results. Also, focus more on accepting yourself the way that you are, loving yourself the way that you are, and all of the extra things that you do will just be an added perk to make you even more fabulous. Don't risk paying such a high price that may cost you your life!!!!!

Sending Caramel Kisses,

Jenna Marie

CAN YOU SPARE SOME CHANGE!!! (An Old Write up of Mine)

Can You Spare Some Change?
By: Jenna Marie Christian
Poverty is a term commonly used to describe the living conditions in poor urban areas. Many Americans who are blessed with a more suitable lifestyle of living often have the misconception that the people living in poverty are there due to their own lack of determination to have more in life. The next time you are asked for some spare change, instead of passing judgment on the less fortunate, take a moment and look at the economy and the various reasons that may have contributed to that person’s current situation. Realistically speaking many of us are only a paycheck away from standing on a corner ourselves. We are living in a city where the rich are becoming richer, while the overworked and underpaid individuals are struggling more.

Chicago’s concerns for the poverty stricken families seem to have fallen by the waste side. The city spends an incredible amount of money funding tourist attractions such as Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile. All the while ignoring the fact that more families are becoming homeless and that more programs are needed to assist the less fortunate. Gentrification seemed like an awesome idea. Buying and renovating the houses and stores in the deteriorated urban areas, to improve property value and improving the living conditions of those who reside in the area. Unfortunately, the wealthy would restore and upgrade these properties, leaving the lower- income people displaced. The properties go from being affordable housing to over priced condominiums and town home units.

We cannot forget about the unemployment rate and underemployment rate being a factor in Chicago’s Rising Poverty crisis. Companies are dealing with financial setbacks due to the increasing salaries for the CEO’s while the employee’s suffer and struggle to make end’s meat. Stagnant wages, no benefits, no stability, no pension plans and long hours are the norm. Chicagoans cannot afford health care, medical insurance or dental insurance because they can barely afford housing and utilities. Therefore the poor often end up with more diseases and health complications than the average wealthy person. Medical and dental visits usually leave the less fortunate in more of a bind than before.

According to the most recent census, the poverty guidelines household income for a family of 3 is $13,738. A family of 5 poverty guidelines household income must be $20,819. In 2005, the median annual household income according to the US Census Bureau was determined to be $46,326. The median income per household member (including all working and non-working members above the age of 14) in the year 2003 was $23,535. 12.7% fell below the federal poverty threshold while the bottom 20% earned less than $19,178.
The 2005 economic survey also found that households in the higher household income range, with an annual household income exceeding $55,331, had two income earners while those in the lower range had only one income earner per household.
The Chicago Continuum of Care created a plan to end homelessness in 10 years. The plan outlines 3 very crucial points:
1. Expand the range and availability of prevention strategies, increase their immediate accessibility, and improve their long-term effectiveness.
2. Expand the availability of affordable permanent housing, increase its accessibility and transition the existing tiered shelter system into a housing first system.
3. Provide transitional services that ensure linkage to community resources, and increase the availability and awareness of formal community supports.
This sounds very good, but we have to stop building over priced condominiums and displacing the lower income individuals. Chicagoans need more programs designed to assist those living in and living very near the poverty level. We need more shelters and institutions to help educate and employ those that are currently homeless. Chicago needs to increase the wages of the average everyday working individuals. There needs to be more companies offering benefit packages that includes, medical, dental, and vision insurance for their employees and families. We need more organizations like Streetwise that give an opportunity to those in need of assistance and not turn our back on them. The economic state of Chicago seems to be getting worse and the poor seem to be the first to suffer. Every Chicagoan should do their part to ensure that we can assist in decreasing the poverty rate. We may be doing alight financially now, but it could be you and your child asking for change next time around. Don’t wait until it is too late to make Chicago a better place.