Out of Line

Heart Reformatted (Me for Me): Changing My Way of Thinking.

2009-10-21T20:53:00.001-07:00

I've been adjusting my way of thinking when it comes to the people I date. I wouldn't say that I've had an epiphany, but a realization that shows a certain flaw in the choices I've made. I have performed an observation of my past and I have realized that I tend to go for a certain type; put simply its the type that doesn't want me for me.

The people I have dated have been people who stuck around for what I appeared to be and when I came true to form it was simply too much. I can rant all day and all night about how some are just no good, but truthfully, the only person I can blame is myself.

I haven't been to the gym in a week and it feels great! Before you start hurling insults out about how fat I'm going to get, hear me out. If you know anything about me, you would know that I've spent more time in the gym than necessary and when I didn't get in the gym I would feel somewhat inadequate. I couldn't give a damn about fitness & health, it was all about image. I had to feel desired physically and what better place to feed this need than 24 hour fitness? The problem was, with my "gym body", I was attracting the shallow. These are people who wouldn't accept me, let alone look at me twice with any extra weight around my midsection. The relationships could only be based on sex because sexual attraction is really the groundwork that started them. These rendezvous would only last as long as I was doing pull ups and and squats. Don't get me wrong, I loved the attention, but at the end of the day...emptiness.

Most people who date based on physique don't ever get to the core. You don't know how many people have no clue that I write, let alone went to college, or have human feelings, why? Because they just wanted F*ck.

I don't want to get to far off from my initial point of writing this entry so let me take you back...I realize that I've been doing it all wrong to find that special someone. I always went for the unattainable, meanwhile I would have quite a few (not to brag or boast) waiting for the opportunity to date me and what did I do? Ignore them. I was so busy busting my ass in the gym for no reason and pretending to be someone I wasn't for people who couldn't care less about how I felt. I came to the conclusion that I had to change my way of thinking and therein alter "my type" if you will.

The Tom & Jerry-thrill-of-the-chase way of dating is dead to me. I don't want to chase anymore. I don't want to convince anymore people that I am the one for them, I also don't want anyone to convince me. I want someone to be honest with their feelings from the jump and I want to be honest with mine and if that is too much for whoever...more fish in the sea. The truth of the matter is, love isn't a game, some competitive ass man decided it was too simple and decided to make it "interesting" and somehow it became a way of life.

Recently, a friend of mine asked me if I would be interested in dating one of his friends because he thought we would hit it off. I replied "No" at first because I was busy chasing some loser and was blinded by that disaster. I was also caught in this idea that the person wasn't "my type" when I knew nothing whatsoever about them. I instantly, sent a reply text and said "give me their number." I thought to myself "why the hell am I saying some one isn't 'my type' when all of those who fit into that horrible category have caused me and my heart harm?" At that moment, I erased my so called preference and decided to stop chasing, turn around, stand still, and simply be captured.

The last few weeks, I have been Kevin Dwayne. I haven't adjusted anything about myself. I frequent the gym for me and its when I want to go. Those I date are into me because of my mind, my current state of being, and not what I may potentially be in their minds. This is how it should be and I refuse to be put back in that mess I was in before. So to all those who gave me a hard time, I want to Thank You for being the assholes you were because you taught me how to let go, let it burn, and go for those who truly want me for me.

-K. Dwayne

Single Isn't So Bad

2009-10-18T13:38:00.001-07:00

Every now and then, I get frustrated at the fact that I am single, especially with the holidays nearing. I don't get validation from other people but it's nice to have a special person to share experiences with. However, there are many perks of not being connected to someone; I don't have to deal with the BS. No sitting by the phone, no checking in, no birthdays to forget, no labels to keep, no jealous friends, no sitting at home while they are partying, no misunderstandings, no arguments, no insults, no holding out on sex,no selfish sex, no cheating, no lying, no revenge, no ignored calls,no bad sex, no compromising with no reciprocity, no pride to swallow, no exes to compete with, no begging, no pleading, no Internet profiles to question, and no giving everything to get nothing in return.

Single isn't so bad.

-Kevin Dwayne

Electro-Love: A Look at Digital Relationships

2009-10-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

Like many people around the world during this economic drop, I have been looking for ways to budget my money and cut costs. Recently, I was analyzing my cell phone bill and noticed I had over 6,000 rollover minutes and only used around 200 minutes a month on actual phone conversations. Meanwhile, my text message and data usages were through the roof! (Bare with me, this is going to get much deeper than you'd expect.)This really got me thinking about the fact that communication is becoming less and less personal and I truly think it is weakening relationships.

You see only a few years ago, I remember talking on the phone for hours with friends and family and it kept our bonds stronger because it was our main form of communication outside of spending time with one another. We would catch up each others lives and get updates. However, in present time with Facebook, Twitter, Myspace etc., there is no need for these connections because we are bombarded all day with status updates and what's happening in the world of others. So at the end of the day what is there really to talk about?

I truly believe my last rendezvous went a little sour because of this issue. I was seeing someone for a couple months and we talked on the phone 3 times. Two of the times were to get directions and to let them know I was waiting outside. All communication was via text or Facebook, I HATED IT! It was already enough that we didn't see each other but then I couldn't even hear their voice when I wanted. It seems that people are comfortable with typing more than talking, to me it's lacks warmth and isn't personal at all. At least with talking on the phone I know I'm not getting a generic message-->>> We are all guilty of this, when you send a message like "What's Up?" to like 8 people and see who responds...(A MESS!) Not to mention it is nice to just talk on the phone with someone you admire, simple things in life!

I personally am trying to go back to traditional means of communication. While I will be faithful to Twitter and Facebook, I will still have phone conversations with friends and family. I also have decided not to add anyone I'm dating on social networks, that way we can have something to talk about when we see each other. I feel this will prevent having a digital relationship.

So the point of this message to you is this: Don't let technology weaken your relationships.

-Kevin Dwayne

Random is all I can be...

2009-10-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

Those of you who actually read my blog have noticed that I have changed the name from "Out of Line" to "Mental Decompression". Well, my reasoning comes down to this... With the title "Out of Line" I feel that people expect me to be well...out of line. The truth of the matter is I can't be 'in your face' cynical and gritty 24/7. I was beginning to feel as if I couldn't just vent about whatever, it seemed as if I had to have a good topic to keep my readers, when in reality, all I want to do is write what ever is on my mind. This is why I have changed the title of my blog to its current title.

I will continue to have YouTube videos under the "Out of Line" title and I hope to have way more updates, as this site will become a place to vent on a more consistent schedule. So with that said, allow me to decompress.

-Kevin Dwayne

Congratulations (NOT Really!...But Really)

2009-09-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

I laugh at the daily occurrences in my life. In fact, today's happenings were so funny I decided to blog about it. Earlier, I ran into someone I was briefly entangled with for a few months about three years ago ( we haven't seen each other since). So we collaborate in small talk and I asked them about their love life and they reply "Oh, I have a boyfriend; we've been together for almost three years."I smile and say, "Congrats (not really) you deserve it, (no you don't) I wish you the best (asshole)." We cordially ended the conversation and parted ways.

I laughed at the fact that when we were "talking" it was set in stone that there would be no relationship because they didn't want one and didn't want one for a long time. However; if my calculations are correct they met someone weeks after me and they are having a wonderful long-term relationship. More power to them.

I understand, clearly, that our chemistry wasn't there. I also understand that they have found something great. I am truly happy for them, really. I never want to get in the way of someone finding their true love, because I am definitely looking for mine.

On the other hand, I am mad that I was lied to by another person. I guess because I am nice, people want to let me down easy and make up the cheesy movie script excuses about not being ready for a relationship and letting someone in, when in reality they aren't ready for...ME. I can definitely be a little much, but damn, I am a grown man, tell me the truth and I will live. It actually hurts more when you are lied to and it makes me lose all respect for you as a person.

As I said before, I am happy for their new found love. A little Bitter, but hey you can't have it all.

-Kevin Dwayne.

The Importance of Being You.

2009-08-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

Through many failed attempts of my own and by example of others, I have noticed a key factor to damaging a relationship and that is omitting various aspects of one's self to impress another. I would like to elaborate on this as I see it happen so much in recent times.

First, sometimes when people meet and are interested in one another, it starts as infatuation. Many are enamored by looks and first impressions. What then happens is the fact that one will be so ready to seal the deal they will alter themselves to make the other seem as if they are the "perfect fit."

For example, your new potential tells you he/she loves to go skating, you don't let them finish their sentence before you exclaim "I Love Skating!" The sad thing is you haven't been skating since you were five and bruised your knees and swore you would never put on a pair of roller blades again. So now that you have lied, you have to continue on this journey. You run out buy skates the next morning, maybe go to the park and practice because you know now that you opened your mouth, he or she will be asking you to go skating real soon. So what happens next? You realized you still hate skating and he/she wants to go every weekend. HMMMM

Now it doesn't have to be as complex as activities, this can be scaled down to interests (i.e Music, Foods, Movies, etc.) Don't pretend to like something because you are afraid if you don't they will lose interest in you. Remember the term opposites attract? It is still found to be true. It is fine to have a few things in common, but you don't have to mirror your potentials every trait.

I say tell the truth about yourself. Why? Because it will save you much grief in the long run when you suddenly wonder why you two aren't compatible anymore and why arguments are becoming so easy to start. The reason is because the honeymoon stage of the relationship is over and you are tired of pretending to like what they like and don't want to think of compromising anymore. This is when all the movie statements take place "What happened to the guy/girl I use to know?" and "You've Changed." They didn't change, they just weren't honest with you because they were afraid you wouldn't like or accept their real personality. SAD.

I want to end with this; the reason you should be upfront and honest with your potential guy/girl is so they get to know YOU! If they don't like You or aspects of your personality, don't feel rejected. There are plenty more attractive men and woman out there and one of them would absolutely love you for YOU!

-K. Dwayne

The Availability Game

2009-08-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

A good friend and I were talking recently about a certain aspect of modern dating that is occurring among many communities of people. Before I begin, Its nothing new, in fact, this has been going on for years. I'm sure many of you reading this will relate to this scenario:

You meet someone special, venue of your choice. You two have an amazing chemistry and decide to take it a small step forward and exchange contact information. Let the games begin.

Depending on the pride and ego of each individual this can go very well or very badly. It boils down to who is going to make the first move. In this day and age, it seems that everyone wants their ego stroked and has the "If he/she is interested they will call me" attitude, also many are afraid of coming across as too "needy." So in turn, true feelings are put on a back burner and this becomes the basis of getting to know one another while trying to guard your heart. Before I go any further, let me say I hate this!!!!

I call this the "AVAILABILITY GAME" brought to you by stereotypical bullshit.

So, you and your new special friend are really into one another, so it seems. You two have went on your first date since you met and the chemistry is still there, so it seems. You have long conversations and maybe even get in that first kiss. The very next day, one or both of you is so guarded that you don't want to seem too eager, so you don't contact your new potential ,yet, hope they reach out to you. Pride is in full gear and you don't want them to know that all you can think of is them and you can't wait until you guys are together again. The fact that they might not be that into you already hurts, so you wait until your patience is finally depleted to empty and then you reach out, only to find they were waiting on you all along. TSK TSK

This is where true frustration begins to manifest for the hopeless romantics, like myself. I will gladly put myself out there and say that I don't like to hold back my feelings. I also don't want to pretend I'm not feeling someone as much as they are feeling me. Somehow, I continually get pulled in to this scenario and I decided it was time to expose it and hopefully find a healthier alternative when dating someone new. Why is it so wrong to be genuine or to really like someone and want to spend time with them? It doesn't mean that one wants instant commitment or exclusivity, they simply want to get to know you more and more and more. Yet, it is common for this to be labeled as "needy."

Now don't get me wrong, I would be a fool if I told people to wear their hearts on their sleeves, that would be a mistake. However, don't be so guarded by the fear of rejection that you are reduced to a silly game of phone tag or war.

We are in a generation of people where everybody wants the "asshole" or the "bitch." It is much more fun for people to try and convince someone to like them, then try and work it out with the ones that already do. The thrill of the chase has become the new status of relationships. Never been too good at making people chase me, or chasing. Not much of the game player.

To my readers, if you are dating someone that tickles your fancy, know that anytime it comes to matters of the heart it will be risky. Think wisely about your actions and how they are coming across. If you want to play hard to get, so be it. Just don't miss out on Mr/Mrs. Right in hopes of protecting your heart. Ultimately, if you aren't in to them, be honest and don't lead them on as it will only cause pain.

I personally find this to be very taxing and waste of time. All the moments we spend pretending we are "unavailable" is time we could have spent getting to know one another. I'm all for taking it slow and enjoying the moment, I just don't like pauses in my programming.

K. Dwayne

Michael Jackson Passes Away

2009-06-25T15:39:00.000-07:00

This is a super sad day in Music. The KING of Pop, Michael Jackson has died after being rushed to the hospital for cardiac arrest. Its gonna take awhile for it to really settle in for me. Michael Jackson was a staple of music for me and millions. Michael Jackson was 50 years old.

Single Ladies (Gospel Version)

2009-06-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

This Video is a little old, but if you haven't seen it you will be happy you did. Get into the Soprano.

2009-06-16T09:44:00.000-07:00

In the last week, I had a chance to watch the movie "Yes Man" starring veteran comedian Jim Carrey. I found this movie to be quite hilarious and the perfect movie to watch at home with friends and family.

Oddly, this movie taught a valuable lesson that I feel is very important. Jim's character in the movie, Carl, said yes to everything because he had to, and this eventually blew up in his face. It in a sense, made him a liar because he didn't express his true feelings all the time.

There was a point in time, when I said yes to keep the peace. I figured if I never went against the grain I could maintain most of my friendships. Just like the film, this ended up being a disaster. People saw that I was not comfortable with all of my compliance. I eventually looked like the bad guy in their eye because I would perform actions but there would be no emotion behind and this made me look fake.

Now, I sing a different tune. I have found myself and learned to be honest with me. I shouldn't have to say yes to be a peace keeper. I just need to be myself at all times and do things because I want. That in turn will make me genuine. Life is too short to fake it.

Why? Los Angeles, Why?

2009-06-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

One thing I simply don't understand are riots, especially in Los Angeles. I remember when I was six years old during the LA Riots of 1992 and I didn't understand what was going on; all I knew at the time was the feeling of fear. What I don't understand is the fact that if you are upset about something, why would you tear up your own home? You have to live there. Its not going to make a difference, it only make things worse.

Sixteen years later, LA was involved in another riot(though very small in comparison to 1992) over the Lakers winning the Championship. This is extremely stupid and ignorant in my opinion. I understand celebrations, but once again, how to do you destruct your own city? On the news this morning, I seen many people burglarizing stores, vandalizing city buses, and starting fires. That saddens my heart to know that people are that dumb. The next time you want to express your happiness, just go to Happy Hour.

Your Dreams - Peer Opinion = Success

2009-06-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

Negativity is unavoidable. If we allow people to dictate our actions, we won't make it far. Be careful in the advice you take, make sure it is given by someone who is looking out for your best interest rather than someone who is jealous of you. Many times, we as humans forget that an opinion is a personal belief that is not founded on proof or certainty;therefore, we take it as fact and put some of our own beliefs on hold. When making decisions, hitting goals, and following dreams please remember that you are accountable for your life and you only live once. Trust in God to fulfill your dreams and reach your destiny.

-Kevin Dwayne

Fear-Facing Friday: Be Bold!

2009-06-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

We all know that life is short and time waits for no one. Therefore, take a chance on something. Stop keeping your ideas and thoughts bottled up. Do what you have to do to be fulfilled, even if its only for a moment. The satisfaction you will feel from accomplishing a small goal will be enough to make you feel great. It's friday! Start your weekend off right...BE BOLD

-Kevin Dwayne

I Give Up!

2009-06-08T17:05:00.000-07:00

I am a loyal consumer of Apple Products, however, I refuse to buy a new iPhone every year. It seems they are releasing yet another iPhone on June 17. The main difference, this one has video recording. I think this is a great feature; however, I am just going to keep my iPhone 3G and just get the software update that is released the same date. Besides, it will only be another 6 months before an even better iPhone comes out.

Thank You STEVE!!!!!!

Pushed Back to Failure

2009-06-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

It appears that the latest trend in music these days is the “Pushback.” All of us have seen some of our favorite artist change their album release dates several times. The only problem is many don’t succeed; some albums have poor sales after release and others are simply shelved. There are many factors in why the pushback is so popular today compared to the past.

Poor Choice in Single: The Record Label, in most cases, chooses the singles that are released. Sadly, many don’t do a great job in their selection. For example, Ciara released three singles (“Go Girl”, “Never Ever”, and “Love, Sex, and Magic”) before her album saw the light of day. This ultimately killed the sales of her latest cd, “Fantasy Ride.”

Album Leaks: Another popular reason why albums are pushed back are premature releases via the internet. Many, if not all, cds are leaked online days if not weeks before the official release date. The labels either have the artist go back in to the studio and record more material (See: Usher, Keri Hilson, Brandy) or they push up the release date (See: Beyonce….only Beyonce).

Artist Can’t Reclaim Their Sound: Many artists, especially popular artist, can’t seem to get a hit. They try and try to create buzz singles to see how fans react and it just doesn’t work (See: Monica, Amerie, Teairra Mari and Kelly Rowland). This, in my opinion, is the most desirable option because at least these artists don’t have too many flop albums on the shelves. (See: Bow Wow, Jagged Edge, and Kelis)

Beyonce is released that week: Yes this is a sad, sad, sad problem. Many artist wouldn’t dare come out the same day as Bey! (lol)

All in all, album push backs are very detrimental to album sales. There are very few artists to overcome this problem. I personally feel if an album is pushed back too far, the record label should definitely consider repackaging. For example, Ciara should have gone back in the studio, recorded new tracks and changed the name of her album. It appears that when a title of an album is constantly promoted but never comes out, it leaves a bad taste in the fans mouths and they have no interest in buying it when it comes out because they feel it’s overdue. (See: Michelle Williams, Brandy, and Mario)

Album Review: The Introduction of Marcus Cooper

2009-06-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

Prepared for release on Tuesday June 9th, ex-Pretty Ricky crooner, Pleasure P, brings "The Introduction of Marcus Cooper." When one thinks of Pleasure P, they think of Pretty Ricky and in my opinion most of their songs were oversexed and borrowed from previous 90's boy groups ( See: Jodeci, H-Town, and Silk).

This album was definitely a pleasant surprise upon pressing play. It appears the singer worked with quite a few producers for his sound including Dre & Vidal, Cool-N-Dre, Ne-Yo, and Tank. Pleasure P offers quite a few solid R&B cuts on this album. He actually has a more commercial urban sound compared to that of his past group.

Standout songs include: "Under", "Let Me", and "Dream in the Air." This album is definitely a good look for Pleasure P, he might even consider changing his name to Marcus Cooper. (More Commercial, lol)

New Albums Overlooked!

2009-05-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

With the new releases of Albums like Ciara's Fantasy Ride and Chrisette Michelle's Epiphany, it appears that the releases of some "not so commercial" artists have been overlooked. After listening to these albums I have decided to formally promote the releases of two solid and cohesive albums.

Elliott Yamin
Fight For Love

The second album from American Idol Season Five Finalist, Elliott Yamin, was released May 5, 2009. This album is a great sophomore effort and a solid listen. The opening track, "Let Love Be" engages the listener and makes them want to turn up there stereo and ride out to where ever their hearts desire. Hot Tracks are "Fight for Love", "Don't Be Afraid", and "This Step Alone". Please Support Mr. Yamin and go purchase this great album.

Tynisha Kelli
The Chronicles of TK

R&B/Pop newcomer, Tynisha Keli, released her album solely on Itunes. This album, in my opinion is a great listen. I actually played it out in a week. Indeed her sound may take a little time to grow on some, but once you get it, its over! I found track after track to be lyrically and vocally enchanting. Standout tracks are "Conversations with God","Woman","Lights Out", and "Shattered".

Go support these two albums! Its okay to enjoy not-so-popular artists.

New Posts Coming Soon...

2009-05-05T15:38:00.001-07:00

I haven't forgot about you! New Posts and Videos coming this week.

-Kevin Dwayne

Weekly Inspiration

2009-05-04T10:18:00.001-07:00

Congratulations! You have been blessed with another Monday morning. Make it a good one. As you look forward into your week remember this: Be Fearless!

Don't hold back on yourself because of the "what if" or the " maybe". Chase your dreams from this point forward. Live your life and don't let anyone else dictate your actions. Reach your goals this week, break records, and hit milestones. Live every day this week as if it were the "Big Day!" Why? Because any day that you wake up and breathe is a Big Day.

-Kevin Dwayne

2009-05-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

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Friday Fix...

2009-05-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

Isn't it amazing how quickly the week progresses. It was just Monday that you were grunting about another busy week and now its another weekend to look forward to enjoying. When you get off work, make sure you treat yourself. Go to the movies, order a Pizza, hang with your special someone, or just relax. Enjoy your weekend, you deserve it!

-Kevin Dwayne

Do You Know What You're Eating?

2009-04-30T15:49:00.001-07:00

Typically, many hungry people pull in to the drive-thru of their favorite restaurant and begin ordering their favorite meals without any observation of the nutritional facts. I don't find anything wrong with this pattern when it comes to indulging in foods you love. Also, we have to face the facts: reading labels can be taxing and sometimes more than what we want to do when we are already hungry. However, it is very important to know what you are putting inside of your digestive system. Fast Food is already harmful as a standard because most of the foods served are fried and loaded with sugars but there are some items on the menu that you should be sure to watch.

For Example,

Carl's Jr
Guacamole Bacon Six Dollar Burger

Calories 1040
Calories From Fat 630
Fat 70g
Sodium 2240mg
Carbohydrates 53g
Protein 49g

Please note that this doesn't include the basic side
orders that come in a value meal.

Medium Coke
Calories 410

Medium Fries
Calories 460

Total Meal: 1,910 Calories

This one meal is the daily caloric intake for the average 12 year old girl of 90 pounds.

Think about what you are consuming.

-Kevin Dwayne

Sources
Good Health

Carl's Jr

Be Genuine

2009-04-30T00:30:00.001-07:00

If I could choose one trait to give all people, I would make everyone genuine. This encompasses many things: honesty, humbleness, integrity, and respect for all. I am officially over fake individuals. Those I keep near me must be true. I need to know that when I see you in public, no matter who you are with, I can greet you warmly and you will reciprocate the indentical action. My true friendships have no conditions. Just ask my friends.

-Kevin Dwayne

What Happened To...JADE?

2009-04-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

As I listened to my music on shuffle today, I heard a song that brought a smile to my face. It was the song "Don't Walk Away" by 90's R&B group Jade. This single was from their 1992 debut album "Jade to the Max." While listening to these three sultry singers sing their hearts out on the 90's hit, I began to cycle to through search engines to find out---what happened to Jade? Well, this is what I found.

Jade consisted of three lovely ladies, Tonya Kelly, Joi Marshall, and Di Reed. There first single was titled, "I Wanna Love You" and it was deeply considered as the answer song to male R&B group Color Me Badd's hit single "I Wanna Sex You Up" This song led the way for the trio's biggest known single "Don't Walk Away" which hit number 2 on the Billboard Pop Charts in 1993 and was also certified gold by the RIAA. Their debut album went on to receive platinum status.

Due to the irreconcilable differences with their record company and mismanagement of funds, Jade disbanded after the release of their 1994 album Mind, Body, & Soul.

Joi Marshall went on to release an independent solo gospel album in 2007, Testimony & Praise, and wrote a book entitled "Answers to the 20 Most Asked Questions in the Music Business."

Tonya Kelly became an interior designer with her own successful firm. According to sources, she earned a degree in Interior and Architectural Design prior to joining Jade.

Di Reed continues to work on solo music and she has been noted singing backup for the likes of Rod Stewart and R&B Crooner, Usher.

Sources:

R&B Haven

Wikipedia

YouTube

Wednesday Workshop

2009-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Think about the last time someone complimented you. How did you feel? Pretty good right? It was probably something really small like "I like your shirt", "You have a great smile", or "Nice Shoes!" Today, go out and compliment at least 3 people; however, make sure it is genuine. We go through the day noticing others attire and actions, so if you see something good let it be known! Imagine how you'll make that persons day.

-Kevin Dwayne

A Thought for Tuesday

2009-04-28T12:09:00.001-07:00

The importance of having your own set goals is often lost among many. People sometimes spend most of their energy and time envying others' success and not staying focused on what they want most. My advice today is simply: Do You! Don't waste another minute analyzing someone else's career or drive. Everyday, map out what you are going to do to reach your goals in life. If you don't have goals, Get Some Now! You only have one life and it is very short, so make the best of it. Write that book, open that business, focus on getting that dream career. If you commit yourself to it, it will happen.

-Kevin Dwayne

Have I Been Enslaved?

2009-04-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

This Morning, I decided to work on some important documents on my Apple MacBook. I was eagarly typing away hoping to get my often radical thoughts into complete sentences. As I began to get lost in the world of written literature, my Apple iPhone began to ring. It was a good friend of mine, asking me about a song that he heard on the radio and wanted to know if I knew exactly who the artist was that performed it. Once he told me the lyrics, I instantly grabbed my Apple iPod and began scrolling through track after track, until I found exactly the song he mentioned. It was at that moment that I realized that I had quite a few APPLE products. I began to think, "when the hell did this happen?"

I had been a PC user for many years and the journey began by me purchasing my first iPOD Nano back in 2005, I instantly fell in love with the structure of its design and this started it all. I eventually became a victim of brand expansion and ended up completely brand loyal to APPLE Products. But this is my question: Do I own Apple Products or does Apple own Me?

-Kevin Dwayne

Weekend Box Office

2009-04-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

Fighting, starring Channing Tatum and Terrence Howard, came in at the Number 3 spot grossing $11,441,000.

Dropping from the number 1 spot into Number 2, 17 Again, starring Disney Star Zac Efron and former Friends' actor Matthew Perry. The title grossed $11,665,000 over the weekend and has total sales of $39,970,000.

Number One, seductive thriller Obsessed starring Idris Elba, Ali Larter, and Beyonce Knowles. The movie had a great jump off over the weekend with a gross of $28,500,000.

If you guys haven't went out to see any of these movies, please go out and support these actors and actresses! These are all great films!

Box Office Results are Courtesy of YAHOO! Movies

Weekly Inspiration: Don't Forget You!

2009-04-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

Monday is never a day of excitement for most of the world, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a total dull. Remember, today is another day of your life that wasn’t guaranteed yesterday. Be Blessed and Enjoy.

Work hard this week and make sure you are efficient and consistent. However, don’t forget to allot a little time each day for yourself. You have to be good to your body, so take time out every day or night to simply relax. Actually, do what you want to do: read books & magazines, write poetry, play video games, spend time with your family. You definitely deserve it.

-Kevin Dwayne

Episode 3: Craziness

2009-04-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

Episode 2: Recession Special?

2009-04-26T04:23:00.001-07:00

Episode 1: Intro

2009-04-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

So It Isn't A Total Waste.

2009-04-24T20:14:00.002-07:00

Happy Valentines Day!

Today is the day that couples around the world are celebrating the true joys of love, while the singles find empowerment and express their pride in being individual. Being single myself, I find that Valentines Day has never been a huge deal to me, as I have never successfully had a relationship during the month of February. Many men would say, "Hey, that's money saved!" while the women are simply saying, "Awww, poor thing." What I find disturbing about this day in particular, is not the fact that I am not dating someone in the present; its the fact that I reflect on people I have dated in the past. I find that good February 14 is the day I walk down that dreadful memory lane.

There is one relationship I've had that I seem to replay in my mind, maybe because that is the only relationship I consider real, the rest were just poor decisions. It's been almost two years since the ending of that turbulent tirade of what I think was love. Don't get me wrong, that relationship needed to end as it was no means healthy or progressive, but still, there were some awesome things that happened, and that is what I love to spend moments reliving in my mind. The small things like hanging out, going to the movies, dinner, play fights, and simply napping together bring a smile to my face every time.

The sad thing is I don't know if there will ever be an ending to these thoughts in my head. I don't know if I want there to be an ending. Many of my close friends and family are always trying to fill my head with the nonsense of renewing my mind and forgetting about the past, but the truth of the matter is I don't want to forget about the past, because it is very special to me and I feel it defines me as a person and makes me who I am at this very moment. We have all heard the "Get Over It" speech from someone in our lives. I ask you this,why must we get over it?

I am all about moving on and starting new, but good memories aren't to be thrown away, they should be cherished and we should allow them to bring a smile to our faces. As the old saying goes, "It is better to have loved, then not at all."

So if you are single, don't get down on yourself. There is someone special out there for you, its just not your time. Enjoy your day, treat yourself, and think of some good times. Smile!

Couples, enjoy each others' company. Loving and admiring someone can be a beautiful and enriching thing. Enjoy your day, treat each other, and create some good times. Smile

Happy Valentines Day

Was He Ever Into You?

2009-04-24T20:14:00.001-07:00

Over the weekend, a close friend and I went to see New Line Cinema's "He's Just Not That Into You." I found this movie to be slow at times, but nonetheless entertaining. Without spoiling the movie for those who haven't seen it, I found a couple of aspects of the film hilarious as they portray the silly things men and women do when it comes to the matters of the heart.

The first inaccuracy, is naivety. Sometimes we can have the truth placed before us, like a barn yard pig in the middle of our living rooms, and we will just walk around it even though it leaves horrible smell and creates a mess. For example, some years ago, I have had someone tell me that they were not looking for a relationship and I, thinking I was the exception to the rule, pursue them harder than a fish to a hook. You can probably guess what happened...I got my heart broken and they didn't even offer me a broom and dustpan to pick up my face, because they cracked it to pieces. I had no one to blame but myself, why? Because I was warned and for some reason there is something in the romantic's mind that thinks when someone says they don't want a relationship it means they are playing hard to get and we waste precious time trying to climb the walls of Berlin.

Not as heavy as the first, but just as funny, is the boundless time spent waiting for a person's call. I have been both the victim and the suspect when it comes to receiving and returning calls. If there isn't a more clear sign than a person flat out telling you they don't like you, this will definitely give you the motivation to get over someone. Think about the last situation you had similiar to this...did the process work something like this: You meet someone out, where ever you like to go. You two have an awesome conversation, exchange numbers, and maybe even set another date. The very next morning, you receive numerous text messages, voicemails, myspace and facebook messages. Things seem to work out fine, you are excited because you may have found "The One."

Fast forward about two weeks, no calls, no messages, and no voicemails. You refresh your inbox several times in a day, blaming your Internet service provider for bad service. You restart your phone several times, turn the ringer up as high as possible, and lay the device next to you on your pillow while you sleep to ensure you don't miss their call. You get angry when your phone rings and its someone else, and you begin to blame your phone service provider because maybe they just can't get through. You eventually take control and send them a "Just checking on you" or "How have you been?" message. You may, if anything at all, get a text with one word answers to your extensive questions along with excuses about how busy they've been, even though they were doing the exact same activities when they met you weeks before. Could it be that...they just don't like you? I'll let you figure that one out.

I could go on all day about this movie, but for the sake of embarrassment of what I've been through. I think I'm just going to stop here. As far as my advice for the day...Know when to move on.

Also, if you haven't seen "He's Just Not That Into You", check it out. You may learn a thing or two.

Anything that I write or express on this website is merely my opinion and that is all. It is never my objective to offend anyone or downplay the opinions or beliefs of others.