Starting Your Dreams Later In Life and Embracing the Detour

Jenee Darden speaking at Creative Mornings I know it's been a while since I've posted anything but that's because of my job. I'm working as a reporter covering Oakland and I host an arts segment on the radio where I get to interview amazing artists from around the Bay Area. Plus I'm publicizing my book  and building my speaking career!  You know what's funny? I thought this would all happen by the time I was 27-30.  Nope. That wasn't God's plan for me. I'm finally beginning to do the things I've wanted to do and I'm almost 40 years old. Some people reading this who are 40 will say 40 is still young. But some younger people reading may think 40 is nearly ancient. But I'm writing this post for those who like me, thought their career and personal dreams would come true much early in life. I'm here to tell you not to give up.  You know, death inspires life. A number of my relatives and friends have passed away, ranging in

Sasha and Malia Dolls and other Cocoa Bits


UPDATE Chicago Business.com reports that the First Lady finds the dolls "inappropriate." The toy company better watch out. Aside from being the most powerful couple in the world Mr. and Mrs. Obama are both lawyers. I'm sure they know what's up when it comes to the rights of their daughters' privacy and image.

Sasha and Malia are hitting the toy shelves. Notice I didn't say Sasha and Malia Obama. The Associated Press reports that the makers of Beanie Babies are releasing dolls called "Sweet Sasha" and "Marvelous Malia. " They're from Ty Inc.'s line called TyGirlz Collection. The company says the dolls are not in the likeness of the fly First Daughters. I guess it's just a coincidence that the dolls have the same names as the First Kids and were released in limited supply during the month of the Inauguration. The dolls are cute but they don't look like Sasha and Malia. Check out the AP for a slideshow of the dolls.


Seeing Red
Much of the world still seems to be on an Inauguration high. Our First Lady was definitely the belle of the balls Tuesday night. But I also want to give props to our Vice President's lady in red, Dr. Jill Biden. It's a color we haven't seen in Washington much since Nancy Regan's days in the White House. Although Michelle Obama did wear a striking red dress when the Bush family gave the Obamas a White House tour. I thought Biden's short Fleurette coat and tall leather black boots she wore to the Inauguration ceremony were hip and classy. And she looked lovely in her flowing red strappless gown by Reem Acra. Sadly, the media is trying to start stuff by comparing Jill and Michelle's style. I've seen articles asking who dressed better. You'd never hear someone comparing Obama's and Biden's bow ties. Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden have different styles but they both looked great the other night.


Cocoa Grooves
There are two songs I've been listening to lately. India Arie's new album is coming out Feb. 10th. The first single "Chocolate High" features Musiq. But I'm really digging her duet with artist Anthony David called "Words." It's sweet, romantic with a smooth melody. I'm late on this song because it's been out for some time. Wish India and Anthony luck at next month's Grammys because "Words" was nominated .



And if you haven't OD'd on Obamania just yet check out "America's Song." When David Foster, Will.i.am, Bono, Faith Hill and Mary J. Blige get together, you can't go wrong. Whether you're on the right or left it's a spirited, patriotic song. I have Republican friends and relatives so if any of them are reading this don't watch the video. Just close your eyes and listen to the music.






Photo Credits: AP

Comments