Pour it up

"Nobody said being a grown-ass woman was easy."

~Gabrielle Union

Ladies, we are definitely going to need more wine! This book kept me laughing and I found it very insightful. Gabrielle Union has been one of my "Celebrity Crushes" since high school. I've watched her in movies like "Bring it On" and "Bad Boys" and I've always loved her spirit. I know that may be weird to say because I've never met her or been in her presence but something about her has always made me want to know more about her as a "real person". When I first heard about this book I was so excited to read it. I was thinking surely this beautiful woman has probably had everything laid at her feet since birth, let me revel in the glory of black beauty, but to my surprise she is just like me in so many ways. I really felt like I was talking to one of my homegirls while reading this masterpiece. Gabrielle is so open and honest about her journey. After reading this book I low-key felt like I could call her  and say chiiiilllle me too, lets do lunch when you're in Texas. A girl can dream right.

There were a lot of "moments" in this book. These were times when I would stop laughing at some hilarious joke she made and say, Nickie (as if we're really friends right) I am so sorry that happened to you. Ms. Union has dealt with her fair share of pain and despair in her life and I am so grateful for her Transparency. After reading her words and often feeling like, ok she thinks like me, I am inspired! This book is 20 Chapters of Pure "Grown woman shit". Pull out your wine glasses ladies, you won't be disappointed. You can find this book pretty much anywhere books are sold, get you one!

Just recently I watched Gabrielle and D'Wayne's special on Own. It was amazing. Welcome to the world Kaavia! You're mom is awesome and an inspiration to us all. If you have a chance to crawl out of the books and catch some TV I recommend it to all.

*Keep Your Head in the Books*

My Homegirl wrote a Book

Chiiiiiile I had a moment and a Breakthrough!

Let me just say this book is definitely for the ladies. It is designed for us to have an intimate conversation with ourselves about what type of women we want to be, trusting God, and fulfilling our destiny.  It can be used as a daily journal or a daily read and "think piece" as I called it. I took several notes and I found it very easy to read. Let me introduce to you the most profound book I have read this year, Colliding With Destiny by Sarah Jakes Roberts. (She is my homegirl in my head. LOL) I enjoyed this book and it really has helped me face some demons in my own life.

It Gets Real...

I read this book rather quickly. I'd say it took me three weeks to read but chiiile I got stuck on the last chapter of this book for three more weeks. I dug deep and it really hit home for me because my own childhood was never perfect. To make a long story short, I was malnourished at 1 month old and had a seizure. I was taken to the hospital after some family members realized I was not "acting right". After this happened my aunt took custody of me and raised me as her own. She provided a good life for me and has always encouraged me to do my best. If I am honest though I still questioned if I was good enough growing up. Today my Mom (aunt) is my rock and I am forever grateful that God sent her to me. My biological mom passed away in 2007. It was a sad and confusing time for me, I struggled with so many emotions. I've had times where I was confused about who I should be. Then I was confused about how to feel at all. Now here I am in my 30's. I have two degrees and a decent job. Now who would have thought that little 1 month old in the hospital would survive and really thrive in life. When I read chapter 30 of this book I cried real tears. I prayed and I closed the book because I could not read past the story of the small infant in the accident. God has a plan for each one us. Sometimes our lives start off rocky and uncertain but we have to trust his plan. Collide with your destiny and get a copy of this book. Let it open up your mind and help you become the women you have always wanted to be. 

I hope everyone had a Safe and Happy Halloween!

I might be a writer

Girls Night Out

(Chapter 3) By TT

A whole month had passed and Elle was still getting the cold shoulder from Dante. Her phone buzzed, Elle fell back on the bed and sighed, she knew it was her sister Bobbi they'd been texting each other all day. Elle read the text, we need a girls night sis! Elle laughed and responded, I definitely need a girls night! Bobbi was 2 years older than Elle and they were really close. They loved talking to each other because they had a bond only they understood. Elle text Bobbi again, I will call you tomorrow to discuss details sis, I'm sleepy. Love ya! Elle flipped her phone to silent and headed for the shower. Elle was so confused about Dante and no matter how hard she tried,  she couldn't get their first date off of her mind. After her shower and a glass of wine, Elle sat at her computer to type an email to Dante. "Maybe i should just curse him out and be done", Elle sighed again knowing that wouldn't help. "I give up" she said after staring at the computer screen for five minutes. Elle stood up as if she was feeling like a new woman. " Hell yea I am going to have girls night!" She said while heading to her closet.

Bobbi was headed out for her morning walk, she likes to workout, eat healthy and take care of the earth. Bobbi started her morning stretch when she noticed her friend Alaina walking up. "Good morning Ms. Bobbi, blessed to see another day!" Alaina and Bobbi walked together most mornings. Bobbi enjoyed Alaina's company and Alaina enjoyed having someone to talk to, their friendship worked for both of them and they'd been friends for almost 15 years. Bobbi kneeled down to stretch and Alaina exclaimed "Girl, why after 3 months of begging to go out with me this man gonna say he not ready for anything serious right now?" Bobbi laughed, "Who Roy?" Alaina gave her a blank stare, "Girl yes!, Who else?" Bobbi tilted her head sideways, "I told you not to give Roy none" then she laughed again. Alaina began stretching too. "I don't understand Bobbi, why get me then push me away, men are retarded!" She stood up grabbing her foot. Bobbi started running in place, "You ready?" Alaina nodded. They ran through the park discussing Roy and men in general. Alaina asked, "How is Elle?" as they came to their 2 mile mark. Bobbi turned and said, "Oh yea! We are having a girls night out this weekend, you should come." Alaina smiled, " I definitely need a girls night!" Bobbi laughed, "I guess we all do!" 

Bobbi and Elle were always called twins growing up because they looked just alike. Bobbi was shorter than Elle but they had the same complexion and eyes. Bobbi kept her hair shaved off as an adult but when they were kids Bobbi and Elle both had long curly hair. Elle called Bobbi later that morning to discuss the weekend. "Are you coming here sis?" Elle asked as soon as Bobbi answered. "Yes i will be there Saturday morning, I will leave Monday morning. Does that work ?" Bobbi asked. "Yes, I heard about this VIP Lounge we can go to,  my Co-Worker knows the DJ", Elle sounded excited. "I don't know Elle, last time we went out thinking we were gonna get hooked up we didn't" Bobbi sighed. "Look I promise we will have a great time, we will have our own section, bottles, and access to the DJ booth!" Elle exclaimed. "Then we can do whatever you want to do Sunday!" Elle tried to sound compromising. "Ok sis" Bobbi smiled, "Lets turn up!... I do have one condition though, can Alaina come?" Elle looked at the phone with a smirk "this girl is a trip" she mumbled away from the phone. "You know Alaina is extra Bobbi, make sure she can handle herself, but that's your friend sis!" Elle thought about Alaina's loud voice and how annoying she was when they used to get drunk and go out in college. "Is she still loud?" Bobbi busted out laughing, "Leave my friend alone, she has toned down a bit" Elle smirked at the phone again and laughed. "Well ok let's turn up then! See y'all on Saturday morning. I'll make Brunch!" Elle was excited and ready to put Dante out of her mind.

Elle woke up early Saturday morning and begin cleaning the house. Elle was excited that her big sister was coming to see her.  After Elle was done cleaning she grabbed her purse to run out to the grocery store. "We need some snacks and I need some groceries", Elle said to herself while making a list. Elle pulled into the parking lot of the store excited about her weekend. It was early so the store was pretty empty except for a few old people and the people who worked in the store. Elle grabbed everything she needed and headed to self-checkout. "Your hair is so pretty", she heard a woman's voice behind her. She turned around to see who was complementing her and noticed the little boy hugging the woman's thigh. She smiled and said,  "Thank you, You're son is so cute." The little boy smiled and Elle smiled back. "What products do you use?" The Curvy lady asked her. "I use a little bit of everything if it smells good Elle smiled again." They both laughed. Elle walked up to the counter and begin checking out her groceries.  The little boy walked up behind her finally letting go of the woman's leg and smiled, "You're pretty!" he started laughing and then went back to where his mom was standing. Elle laughed at his child-like demeanor. "He is just too cute!" She exclaimed. "Well he gets that from me and just a little from his daddy", the curvy woman joked. Elle finished scanning her groceries and her and the curvy lady had small talk about grocery prices and "self" checkout. They both walked out together still having small talk and laughing like old friends. "Hey, I am having a girls night tonight, we are going to the VIP lounge have you heard of that?" "I have, but I have never been", the curvy lady explained. "Well you are welcome to come join us tonight..", Elle stopped mid-sentence. "Wait, I'm so sorry, duh you have your son!" The Curvy lady laughed. "I can leave him with my mom or his dad no worries, what's your name and contact info, I'd love to go out, It's been so long." Elle smiled and told her what her name was while putting her info in the curvy lady's phone. "We will probably get there about 10pm, text me when you make it and you can sit in our section." Elle waved goodbye. "See you later, nice meeting you!" the curvy lady waved good bye as well.

Elle pulled up in her parking lot and started taking things in the house when she heard a horn beeping. "Hey baby sis!" Bobbi exclaimed from her Truck in the parking lot. "You are so ratchet!" Elle said sarcastically. Bobbi turned the music up. It was the melodic sounds of Lil John and the Eastside boys. Elle began dancing in the parking lot while Bobbi hyped her up and then they both laughed hugging each other. They were both happy to see each other. "Girls weekend!" Alaina yelled behind them. "See, I can't" Elle mumbled. "Stop", Bobbi said laughing and asking what's to eat. They got all settled in and started planning for their weekend. "What's for brunch?" Alaina asked. "I don't know yet", Elle started scratching her hair. "Maybe some banana pancakes, eggs, and turkey bacon." "Mmmmm, that sounds good Bobbie exclaimed from Elle's room. "What are you doing in my room?" Bobbi peeked her head out, "being nosey, is there a problem?" Elle laughed at her. "Well I need a mani/pedi and we need some girl talk ladies cause I thought I found the one last month!" Elle sighed. "It's gonna be alright girl" Alaina added. Elle smiled at Alaina, "So how's your love life?" Alaina sighed, "Girl what love life?" they both laughed. Elle looked at Alaina again realizing how much she had matured over the last 5 years. "It's good to see you, I'm glad you came." She said sincerely. Alaina got up and grabbed Elle for a hug, Elle was surprised. "I love you!" She said while squeezing Elle. Elle squeezed back, "Ok girl, don't kill me now". They both laughed. Bobbi came out of Elle's room holding her newest sex toy. "Awe look at my girls." Elle screamed and ran towards Bobbi, "Give it back now, that's brand new!" Bobbi laughed falling on the couch. "Damn, sis it's that bad out here" they all laughed. Elle went back into her room to put it away. "Dang Bobbi stop going through my stuff, you always do that and I have never liked it." She said with a serious face. Elle walked into the bathroom and closed the door dramatically. Alaina and Bobbi laughed again. "I'm sorry sis, I was just playing!" Bobbi tried to sound sympathetic. Elle walked back out into the living room smiling, "I accept your apology." Bobbi frowned and smirked at Elle. "See y'all be doing too much!" Alaina exclaimed. "I'm ready to go to the nail shop!" "Shut up Alaina, we going girl!" Bobbi said as she and Elle started grabbing their things.  They all jumped in Bobbi's truck and headed to the nail shop.

It was 9pm time to get dressed for the club and clothes, shoes, and hair was everywhere. "See, she messed up my nails, I wanted them shorter!" Alaina complained. "Girl come help me with these lashes", Bobbi said to Alaina from the bathroom. "You almost dressed?" Elle yelled while putting her heels on in the bedroom. "Yes!" Alaina said while putting on Bobbi's lashes. "We about to turn up, girl Dante aint shit!" Alaina exclaimed. Elle and Bobbi started laughing, Alaina was feeling her pre-club drinks and they could tell! "I know right, how he gonna ghost me after acting like our first date was the shit!" Elle exclaimed. "Girl you never know what that man got going on." Bobbi was always the voice of reason. Elle picked up her phone, she went to Dante's contact info and pushed delete. "Ok y'all he's dead now, R.I.P!" Elle said tossing her phone onto the bed. "I need another shot!" They all took another shot and called their Lyft to the club. "Oh we lit tonight" Alaina started laughing. She loved to see Elle tipsy. She always thought Elle was a little stuck up but when she was tipsy they had fun. "Oh, I invited my homegirl to the club, she cute! Her son was so adorable!" Elle told them on the way to the club. "What homegirl?" Bobbi asked. "I met her today she seemed like a cool girl." Elle said while feeling her drinks kick in. "What's her name?" Alaina asked. "Girl ... I.D.K" Elle said realizing she never asked. "I forgot to ask her, but I told her mine!" Elle started laughing and dancing in the seat. The Lyft driver turned the music up. They all danced and laughed until they pulled up to the club. "Girl look at that line, your friend better get us in!" Bobbi was skeptical. "C'mon sis!  Let's party!" Elle loved to dance.

Elle walked right up to the door and showed him the text in her phone. "How many?" The Door man asked Elle. "Three right now and maybe one more later." He allowed them in. They walked in and it was empty except for a few people, but they were early.  The music was bumping and Elle exclaimed, "Lets go to the bar!" Bobbi looked at her sideways. She had never seen Elle drink so much. "Slow down, I don't want to carry you out later!" She said trailing behind Elle to the bar. They made their way to the DJ booth as more people came in and sat at a small table with two chairs. "Um, I thought we had a booth?"Alaina said looking at the small table. Elle's phone started to buzz, she read the text, Elle I'm here, I'm at the bar getting a drink, where are you? Elle didn't recognize the number and she'd had one too many drinks, "Who the hell is stalking me?" She showed Bobbi the text. Bobbi laughed, "That's your homegirl crazy" Bobbi took the phone.   Hey homegirl we by the DJ booth, Elle has on a red dress! Bobbi handed Elle the phone back. "She is coming over now!" Elle nodded her head and then her song came on, Independent by Webbie.  She started dancing and having a good time. Elle felt like she was finally getting over Dante. She spotted her curvy homegirl from the grocery store. "Heyyyy!" Elle waved while still dancing, she pointed at the small table where they were sitting. "There's my little table girl, they did me wrong but I am having fun! I'm glad you came! You look cute!" She said really fast. Her new homegirl smiled realizing she'd had a few drinks. "This is nice, I like it." Her homegirl said while looking around and sipping her drink. She was happy to be out on a Saturday night, she knew it was a much needed mommy break. They all danced and had fun together. Elle introduced everyone and they all took turns sitting down until they were ready to go. "I gotta get outta here it's too many people now!" Bobbi exclaimed at 1am. "I know girl, some guy grabbed my butt twice, talking about oh excuse me!" Alaina said in an exhausted tone. "I have definitely exhausted myself." Elle laughed. "Let's get out of here ladies." Her new homegirl said seeming tired as well. 


They all gathered their things and headed for the door when her new homegirl stopped, "OMG, hey Rob!" she said to a tall smooth dark skin man standing by the door. "Hey Kiera!" he said reaching out for a hug, she hugged him. "Its good to see you, you look great!" Kiera said remembering him looking different in high school, but now he was cut and dressed nice. "How you been?," He said looking at Kiera's curvy figure. "Great, I just stepped out with some friends, It's been years since I've seen a club." Kiera and Robert laughed. "Well we are headed out, good seeing you." Kiera tried to keep it short so she wasn't rude to her new friends. "Ok, keep in touch, hit me on SnapGram, RobertWorksOut." Robert leaned in and whispered to Kiera. "Ok I will do that." Kiera said walking away. "Girl he is fine!" Elle said as they began walking away, still feeling her drinks.  "I know, he didn't look that good in high school." Kiera said while holding the door. They all walked out laughing and talking. "Well I drove here.", Kiera said heading towards the parking lot, I can drive everyone home. "No girl we don't want to put you out of your way, we can Lyft, but thanks for coming out we had so much fun!" Elle hugged Kiera. "I enjoyed y'all too!" She said as she began walking to her car. "Be careful!..." Elle said realizing she still didn't know her name. "I am horrible, Whats your name?, I need to lock you in!" Elle said waving her phone. Kiera put her info in Elle's phone. "I'm Kiera" she smiled as she handed Elle back her phone. Elle waved bye as they both walked their separate ways. "What was her name?" Bobbi said as they got into their Lyft. "Kiera" Elle said. "That's My new homegirl!" They all laughed. Their Lyft driver drove them home.

Hey Bookworms! It's national book month and it's our Anniversary! 

It's been a whole year since we've been keeping our head in the Books! Thank you to everyone who stops by! I can't wait to bring even more to the blog over the next year. 

Don't forget to subscribe if you read the blog often. I hope you like my story! It's getting juicy! LOL. 

If you have an Instagram account please follow us there too! @thebookxchange

*Keep Your head in the Books*

Unshackled

Unshackled by Gene McGuire is a God Send. This book was so inspiring and captivating.

Gene spent over 30 years in prison and during that time he found God and changed his life behind bars. Gene's book tell's about the Murder that led to his imprisonment and life behind bars. He leads us into how he finds his faith and the people he met along the way. Gene is another reminder of how Amazing God is!

It took me a couple of months to read this book due to my busy schedule but I think I could have finished it in a week if I had the time. This book is 15 chapters and about 300 pages. It reminded me of one of those true crime stories you watch on the ID channel. It's a story of redemption, faith, and overcoming in the worst circumstances. I kept thinking while reading the final chapters if he can change his life in prison then we can change anywhere and no matter the circumstances with faith in God. What a great message from Gene! I love this story.

Gene is currently in Texas since his release in 2012. He does motivational speeches, book signings, and church ministry throughout the DFW metroplex. He is so encouraging and supportive. I look forward to hearing him speak soon.

Please grab a copy of Gene's book.  I recommend it highly. You won't be disappointed.

Back like I never left

If You are Reading this...Heyyyy.

Hey Bookworms, I have some interesting things to share with you. I been LIVING! I been thinking about my bookworms too, and I am sincerely sorry for neglecting the blog. Forgive me!

I am reading a good book :) and it is so good. Unfortunately I am a bit behind on reading so I am taking a break to refocus, I got you, but I am catching up and I also have some pretty cool books coming soon, I'll be thumbing through more pages here soon!

I ain't done with y'all yet honey! Here are a few pics of me getting my life over the last few months. I wish you all peace, happiness, and love.

 I stumbled upon the Fort Worth Water Gardens on my sister city Adventure.

This place was so cool and relaxing. Great way to beat the Texas heat.

Beautiful water falls and an awesome scenery.

My Favorite part was walking into the big water fall and hearing all the water around me.

This is a great place to go with your family but be careful with smaller ones in the big water fall. There was a small boy there and my heart jumped every time he moved, I can only imagine how his mom was feeling, after a few jumps she took him back up, lol. 

I hosted my very first Bridal Shower for my great friend and old roommate. We had so much fun in our church hats and gloves, it seemed to go by too fast. I was honored to be included in her wedding party and I love that she let me create an ambience of love and great memories shared, all by myself. I enjoyed decorating and hosting, it is definitely my 2nd calling. I also celebrated her Fabulous Bachelorette Party and The Wedding was Lit! It's been such great times these last few months and I am so happy for her. I hope their marriage last a lifetime.

I attended the Woman Evolve Conference. It was pretty amazing. I took a trip to Denver with my homegirls and we turned up with Sarah Jakes Roberts for two days. It was an evolving experience hearing other women's stories and finding ways to cope with all these women problems together. We go through a lot and we need each other. This was a great experience. I look forward to attending this conference again

I had a birthday and I got flowers! Hey Hey Hey Hey! Lol

Last, but certainly not least. Look out for these two books coming to the blog soon. I am currently reading Unshackled by Gene McGuire. Gene's story is so captivating, I can't wait to finish the last few chapters. Next up I will be reading Colliding with Destiny by Sarah Jakes Roberts. I finally grabbed a copy of her book at the Woman Evolve Conference. I can't wait to dive in. 

Keep your head in the books! Don't forget to LIVE!!

Give me 50 feet

Boundaries by Dr Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

I picked this book up at the book store in my Church. The art work on the front cover caught my attention along with the word "Boundaries" so I skimmed through a couple of pages and I felt as though I had to read it. This book was not an easy read as it did seem kind of repetitive. What I liked about it most though, was that each chapter gives you a different scenario on how to have good boundaries, at work, relationships, and with family to name a few. 

This is a good one to keep around for reference and check back in when your feeling out of balance. I also liked that it referenced different bible verses throughout the book. There was one part of the book where they talked about how God wants us each to carry our own load. It's ok to help others as we all need help at times but every one should be carrying their own, not putting yours on others or carrying yours and others loads too. Good Boundaries bring you peace and this book shows you how to have good boundaries with everyone in your life. 

I read this book in pieces over the last few months as I have been swamped with responsibilities. I need an assistant (I can't afford one lol)!! It's not an easy read but it is insightful. I have a copy if you want to borrow or you can order this one online. Get you some Boundaries honey!

I absolutely love my new book mark. It was gifted to me for Christmas, and I have never had a book mark this big but I think it's my new thing. I love the words printed on the front and the beautiful artwork, how unique.

If you have some cool book marks post a pic and tell us about them. I am falling in love with book accessories. I will share some more goodies I have acquired soon.


*KEEP YOUR HEAD IN THE BOOKS*

FOE

MAMA 

By Terry McMillan

I loved reading this book from beginning to end. I laughed out loud, I cried, and I even found myself wanting more at the end. Mama was so entertaining and down to earth. I felt like I was reading about my own family. This drama filled story describes first hand what it's like to be a poor single mother with 5 kids. Mama is a true survivor. Its one of those feel good books that reminds you how crazy life is, but we all need a Mama like her, a fighter. 

McMillan produced gold here, this is truly an art work. Black culture is captured so perfectly here, the good and the bad. It's like watching an old family video or watching Color Purple for the first time. It's such a great message! If your Mom is a book reader, this would be an awesome Mother's day gift. Order a copy for yourself and a copy for her, it's a good book to read as a family and share some laughs.

It took me about a month to read Mama. I could have read it sooner but a sister gotta pay the bills and duty called. It was such a fun read I found myself sneaking off to read it whenever I had a free moment. I was so into it I have thought about reading it again. Let me just say, there are not many books I would read twice. This book is 25 chapters and 342 pages. If I had a two week vacation from work (a girl can dream right!) and a cozy beachside hotel room I could have finished this one in 3 to 5 days. Its fun, it's real, it's raw, it's exciting and each chapter pulls you into Mama's crazy life even more. I give this one two thumbs up. It's a must read! I have a copy to share or you can order it online through Amazon or whatever company you prefer. There may even be a copy at your local library. 

*Please comment below any thoughts on this book, Hope everyone enjoys Mother's day! Keep your head in the books!*

Oops he did it again!

The 5th Agreement

Another Don Miguel Ruiz masterpiece. Let me just say I plan to read anything he writes.

The 5th agreement was another insightful book and a must read!

WARNING: This book opens up your mind. Might have you giving advice to your friends like a GURU. People might say you're acting funny cause you are. LOL

On a serious note I could have finished this book in a couple weeks but it took a couple months because I tried it on Audible. I DO NOT like Audible. Having someone else read to me made me feel like I was 5. I kept wanting the guy reading to shut up. Then I questioned myself: "Am I so vain that i only like the sound of my own voice in my head?" LOL. Long story short, I am not continuing my audible subscription. It's just not for me. Having other people read to me is just not my idea of a good time. However, this book was so good I finished it on audible despite my dislike for it (and because audible was doing a free trial, Hello!). I am so glad I did because it was the perfect start to 2018!

I had a conversation with a friend last year and she shared with me that she was "Mad at God" because of some things happening in her personal life. I had just read this book and I was feeling full of wisdom so I said to her, "What agreements did you make with yourself? It's not about God it's about you." We discussed the things that lead to her feeling down and I was able to provide some insight to a great friend. To my surprise those words rolling off my lips helped me as well and that's the beauty of having friends and helping others, you learn about yourself in the process. This book helps you to do exactly that, figure out who you are in this process called life. We are all here together, constantly searching for answers and better ways to live our lives, this book is a reminder to be careful of the agreements you make with yourself and others. Be skeptical, but learn to listen :)

In this book there is a metaphor he uses to describe how we see others and how others see us. It was perfect, a real eye opener in my opinion. A lot of us get caught up in how others see us, this book reminds us that what others see is not important, What do you see?  So many great "AHA!" moments in this book. I am definitely going to buy a paper copy soon so that I can reference back to this one when needed. I suggest you all read this one and any of his other books, he's a genius! 

Book Worms please tell me what you think about Audible? Is it just me? My little cousin suggested I try it while I am cooking or driving but that drove me crazy too. LOL. What's your reading style? Clearly I'm old school, I need a quiet space and no one in my face. Tell me your thoughts. 

*Keep your head in the books*

Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls

Career Moves

A few years ago I made a career move. At the time I thought this would be the best option for me but upon taking the job i realized it was not the ideal environment for my personal growth as a mature professional. I ran into issues directly related to my skin color, culture norms, and unprofessionalism. 

This book was given to me as a gift and it is essential. "WORKING WHILE BLACK"is a must read. Whether you are doing well at your job or struggling to understand your role, this book is a very insightful guide.

This is one I reference often. I look at the contents when I'm trying to balance work and my personal life. Sometimes it gets stressful! This book is like having a close insightful friend you can talk to about work problems. We all have that co-worker we can't stand. We all have the supervisor from Mars, and I'm sure we have all noticed the attitudes and behaviors towards and of people of color. This is a tell it like it is masterpiece. Grab a copy for your personal library, I recommend it highly.

*Keep Your Head In The Books*

A New Chapter

Dante's Baby Mama

By T.T

(Chapter 2)

Dante woke up at 5am and headed to the gym. He took pride in his physique and style, he worked out 7 days a week and sometimes twice on Saturdays. Today was no different, other than the fact that he met Elle a few days ago and he was still beaming on the inside. Dante sat in the gym locker room after his workout thinking about Elle. He caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and he was smiling from ear to ear. Dante laughed out loud thinking about a joke she cracked on first date. "This girl is a keeper", he said shaking his head and still grinning. Suddenly Dante heard a familiar voice "Dante is that you?" It was one of his old buddies from high school he had not seen in years, Robert. "Oh hey man" Dante snapped out of his happy thoughts. "How you doing Rob?", Dante remembered he was called Rob the Slob back in High school but he left that part out. Robert quickly glanced at Dante as if he read his thoughts. "Its just Robert now, no one has called me Rob in years" Robert said correcting Dante. Dante smiled "Oh my bad man, you come here often?" He asked hoping to change the subject. "I just joined this gym man, I like it so far!" Robert exclaimed. Dante nodded his head in agreement noticing that his old associate was not a small guy anymore, he was buff and obviously in the gym as often as Dante. Dante added " Ok I see, you looking good man, see you around". Robert blurted out while walking away "What happened to you and Kiera?".




Dante was used to everyone asking him about Kiera. She was his High School and College sweetheart. They starting dating his senior year of high school and continued through College. Dante stopped and looked at Robert who was waiting for a response, "she is still around man, but we are not together anymore if that's what you mean". Robert shrugged his shoulders, "It happens, these women come and go". Dante smiled and waved goodbye as he exited the locker room to head for work. As soon as Dante got in the car his phone began ringing. "Speak of the devil" Dante said laughing. It was Kiera. "I will call her when I get to work" Dante said while texting Elle: Good Morning Beautiful. Can't wait until our next date.



Kiera was fuming. "All I asked him to do was come to the family breakfast at DJ's school, he can't even show up for that!" Kiera begun pacing the floor and cleaning up things around the house with an attitude. DJ came into the kitchen, "Is Daddy coming mommy?" DJ was 4 years old and chocolate brown like his father and he had the same smile as his mother. Kiera looked at him trying to sound as loving as possible, "I am not sure baby, but I left him a message and he said he would so we will see if he comes to the school" DJ was smart for a 4 year old, he knew that anything other than a yes might as well have meant NO. Kiera saw the disappointment in his eyes. "Go ahead and finish getting dressed baby, we have to leave in 5 minutes." Kiera went into her bedroom to put on her shoes and jewelry. She was about 5'3, brown skin, hazel eyes, and a very curvy woman. She put on a few pounds after having DJ but she was still gorgeous. Kiera grabbed her lace front wig and applied a few last touches to her make up. "Still killing it" she said with forced a smile on her face, still mad at Dante for his latest non sense. "We are going to have fun regardless, let me call mama!' she exclaimed while securing DJ in his carseat.




Dante arrived at work at 745am. He looked down at his phone wondering why Elle hadn't replied "She must be sleep" he said while opening his emails. "Let me call Kiera back" he sighed. "I just want to see my son when I want to, No Damn Drama!"Dante exclaimed while calling Kiera, she clicked over from talking to her mom, "Hold on mama, well let me call you back this is Dante" Kiera clicked over for Dante's call. "Hello Kiera, is everything ok with DJ" Dante tried to sound calm and rational to avoid confrontation, but it was too late. "You know what Dante, your son is in the back seat so i am not gonna say what i should say to you but just know that you are a breaking his heart" Kiera fought back tears. "What is going on now?" Dante was feeling confused. " I pick him up every other weekend, like we agreed, I give you money, WHAT!" Dante screamed. "I asked you to come to his school today for the Family breakfast Dante, you promised us that! Just this one thing Dante Damn!" She screamed as well. Dante looked at the big Calendar on his desk and saw the words Family Breakfast for DJ written in red. "Kiera, I am so sorry, I forgot" Dante said feeling awful. "What time does it start?" He said hoping he could still make it. "It starts at 815am Dante, can you get over here in 20 minutes for your son?" She said still feeling mad at Dante. "Yes I will be there for DJ, let me talk to my boss" Dante ended the call with Kiera and headed towards the school.



Dante got to the school at 819am in search of Kiera and his son. He spotted DJ and then saw Kiera. Dante waved and headed towards their breakfast table. To Dante's surprise, Kiera's mom was also at the table. "Hey son, glad you could make it" she said snidely. Dante ignored her and grabbed DJ. He picked him up and hugged him tight. "I missed you man, I wouldn't miss this for the world." He said while tickling DJ and making him laugh. Kiera smiled and stood up to hug Dante as well. "Thanks for being here" she said softly. Dante smiled at her then rolled his eyes at her mom where she couldn't see of course. Kiera's mom did not play games, she demanded respect. They all enjoyed breakfast together and met with DJ's teacher. Dante was happy that he got to share this moment with his son and DJ's little face was lit up like a big christmas tree downtown the whole time. "I am so happy to be here with my family" Dante blurted out before he realized fully what he was saying. Kiera smiled and hugged Dante again, "Me too" she added.



Kiera kissed DJ goodbye and also waved her mom off who said she had a church meeting to attend  and had to go quickly. Dante walked Kiera to her car "Hey, I am really sorry about this morning, it really slipped my mind. You know I love our son right?"  Dante said looking into Kiera's eyes remembering when they were crazy about each other. "Yes Dante, I know, you just have a funny way of showing it sometimes. I wish you were more involved with him, he's getting older" Kiera folded her arms and rolled her eyes. Dante stepped back "I said I will do better, I know how old he is, I just forgot! Why you so hard on me?" Dante stared at Kiera waiting for an answer. "Because you just left us! We were a family, I told you I wanted a family then we start one and you want to DO YOU! This sucks Dante, we were together for 6 years! You were supposed to be my husband! I didn't want to raise a child like this, you gave me no choice." She said while tears began streaming. Dante hugged her tight for what seemed like 5 minutes. "Kiera, we just didn't work out, but i do love you and our son". Kiera snatched away from Dante, tears still streaming, "He will be ready on Friday after school, please be on time!" She got in her car and drove away.



Dante stood there feeling like scum. He slowly walked to his car and as he approached he could hear his phone ringing. He opened the door to grab his phone. It was Elle, his smile appeared through the sadness. He read her text: Can't wait for our next date too! Miss you handsome. Dante smiled but didn't respond. He suddenly wasn't in the mood to talk anymore. He was thinking to himself, "I'll probably make her hate me too" Dante drove back to work and finished his day, all he could think about was Kiera and his son DJ. He wanted a family too and he was sad that he broke Kiera's heart but after 6 years of dealing with Kiera's attitude, having financial problems, and then suddenly a kid they didn't plan for, the relationship was just over for Dante. 


After work Dante decided he needed a drink. He went to the sports bar near his job and took down two shots of scotch. While he was leaving Elle called his phone. Dante smiled but sent the call to voicemail. "I need some time" he said simply while ignoring her attempts to reach him. Dante drove home and sat at the table looking at pictures of him and his son with ESPN playing on his flat screen  TV in the background. "I am going to be a great father to my son, that's my only concern right now" he said thinking out loud. Dante headed into his home office to plan a weekend road trip for him and DJ. "We need a new view" he exclaimed while smiling. He thought about Elle again but decided not to call or text her until he was sure he wanted to date again.

I hope everyone's New Year is going great! Don't forget to subscribe to the blog if you visit often. Next Book Review coming soon. I hope you enjoy my story. There is a lot more in store for these characters in the future. :) *Keep ya head in the books*