Lucky Shoes and Payday Loans

Getting paid once a month is usually not a big deal. I work at a local university and they pay everyone that way. Although I make fairly decent money I budget, I pay my bills on time and I don't over spend...usually. Sadly enough for me when I saw those designer shoes in the store window they spoke a language that only my wallet could answer. I simply couldn't wait to wear them. I even boasted to my girls that it was the best $578.56 that I had ever spent. I deemed them my lucky shoes and wore them with pride.

It seemed like a total twist of sick irony that I would be wearing them when my car was hit. Of course as fate would have it my mortgage was also due in a week. I sat at my kitchen table contemplating life and giving my once treasured shoes the evil eye when I heard a noise that could have only been two things, a farm animal in pain or the dishwasher acting up again. To my dismay, but not my surprise the dishwasher was leaking dirty dish water all over the kitchen floor.

Of course in my haste to turn it off I twisted my ankle; my feet had been sore and my ankles a bit strained by the height of my new lucky shoes. Hobbling and saying about every curse word I ever knew I made my way to the bathroom to retrieve my ace bandage. On my way back to the kitchen table to continue my thought process I had several ideas come to mind. Robbing a bank was quickly crossed off the list and I moved on to more sensible solutions. I could ask my parents for a loan but I had been so proud of doing things on my own, this idea I also quickly rejected. I already knew I couldn't ask one of my girls, not after the bragging I had done about the price of my shoes. My check book lay open and after some calculations and thinking I realized the rotten truth, I was short about 700.00. With pay week being two more weeks away I was at a loss.

Typically in these situations I pace the floor until I can come up with an idea that makes sense. Sadly with my foot elevated and covered with a bag of frozen peas, pacing was not on the list of choices. So I defaulted to doing something mindless, checking my email. I had a few more days to figure something out, besides I had been in tough spots before.

Then that's when I saw it, the potential answers to my problems...a pay day loan. Clicking the link I was hoping that this would indeed be the answer that I was looking for, quickly I read through my options and the requirements. I could get up to $1500.00 over night and though I knew I wouldn't need that much I was grateful that I at least had a way out of the whirl wind of financial troubles that had become my world. In celebration stuck my tongue out at the dishwasher.

The next thought I had was having to leave the house in the condition I was in but, then the words 100% on line caught my eyes and both my ankle and I relaxed again. I wouldn't even have to hobble to the fax machine. Suddenly it all felt too easy, too good to be true; just fill out this on line form and in 24 hours I'd have the money I need in my checking account? With a sweaty brow and trembling fingers I read on. Scrolling down the page I quickly learned that all I needed was proof of income and a bank account. There wasn't even a credit check needed. I'd have a fee of $8.00 for every $100.00 I needed and I had 30 days to pay it back. I already knew this wouldn't a problem pay day was only two weeks away. After some quick math and another glimpse at the the FAQ's I filled out all of the required information and I was back in the black.

It's been about six weeks since the drama I had. The pay day loan that saved me is paid and everything is as it should be and better. I have to say that over all it was a learning experience. I certainly don't over extend myself anymore but in case I do, or if emergencies happen, I know I have some options to get my over a rough patch. The best part is that my unlucky shoes are lucky again. If it weren't for them I wouldn't have learned about payday loans. I also wouldn't have had to go to the Dr to have my ankle looked at where I ran in to the most wonderful guy.

Copyright © 2008

Bio for Tyler Gregory

With the vision and imagination that even challenges the limitations of the sharpest pencil point Tyler Gregory is the artist to watch for 2007. Although a musician at heart Tyler began to develop his passion for art as a way to escape. “The process for me is very therapeutic and relaxing,” Tyler says. Art became a way for him to decompress while creating the visual images that ran vividly through his mind. During a time when Tyler was attempting to plan a career path art became a shinning beacon of tranquility.
Between his art and the strong support of friends and family Tyler has been able to keep himself grounded, bounced back from difficulties and calmly adapted to the changes that life has given him.
In adapting to those changes he has become socially conscious in his approach to his art. This will be simple to see when viewing his STOP sign series; a series that is devoted to stopping, thinking and looking both ways to take stock of what is happening around you. From a distance each piece in the series will resemble a run of the mill drawing of a stop sign. Yet upon closer inspection one will see that the symbol is not merely a drawing but actually a composite of a single phrase carefully organized into the shape of a stop sign. The phrases for the stop sign series vary from warnings about cancer, death, teenage pregnancy, heeding our society’s willingness to lean on technology and urging people to reconnect with one another.
His art which is intricate in appearance and structure is done with the aid of a sharp eye; a steady had a black ink pen. Each and every work of art that Tyler creates is done by hand. He calls his art form Circumscription, which is described by Tyler as, “pen on paper ink drawings with numbers and letters, it is simple art that has something for everyone.”
Even someone who is not verse in mathematics can enjoy the flagship piece of Tyler’s collection, Pi (π). The piece π is the first piece that Tyler has offered to the public for view as well as for sale. At a distance an onlooker of this piece will see the symbol for pi π inside of multiple circles. Come nearer and you will see the symbol encircled by the first hundred thousand numbers out that represent pi.
Another piece that Tyler has created, the Planets will show a comparison between the solar system and historical American government documents and speeches. In this collection the text of well known documents are shaped to resemble planets within our solar system. One such comparison is between Earth and The Declaration of Independence; which represents birth.
Tyler credits his success to a strong support system of family and friends. All of whom are eager for his work to showcased early in 2007. Tyler himself is staying cautiously optimistic on the outcome of his first showcase; though he is not blind to his rising success. An early defining moment came recently for Tyler when people that he has never met have inquired on where they could purchase his art.
Tyler’s art, while easily appreciated and humanly constructed in a complex form, is fashioned to speak volumes to its on lookers. Tyler’s art will be on display this March at the Banana Factory in Bethlehem, Pa. For times and dates please refer to the websites below.

www.circumscription.com



Copyright © 2007

Aritcle "Why We're Flipping Over Capoeria"

A while back I began to do research on a fun way to exercise that wouldn’t make me feel bogged down, or bored. I came up with the idea of dance first, and after a few weeks of dancing to the radio in my room this idea too became boring. Once again I was faced with the dilemma of a great exercise program that quickly became incredibly boring. That is when it occurred to me that I was looking for something that was designed to get my heart going, but I was leaving out my brain. It was then I went back to research. I wanted something that I could do and learn from at the same time. That is when I found Capoeira, the 400 year old African Brazilian martial art dance form.
Originally developed by slaves, Capoeira (cap-o-ei-ra) has recently gained popularity in pop culture as well as in your local neighborhood gym or fitness club. Capoeira is a fighting style based heavily on martial arts, dance, acrobatics, culture and music. The slaves were able to practiced Capoeira by convincing their masters that it was ritual tribal dancing. Yet in actuality they were cleverly disguised fighting moves that the slaves used against slaves catchers. Because of its underground beginnings Capoeira was outlawed for many years before being allowed back into society. It’s been building and gaining popularity until now it is nearly a household name.
Capoeira is typically taught with sweeping moves, kicks, and head strikes. Recently teaching punches and hand strikes have become the norm although it was not always that way. Some experts have hypothesized that this is because it was originally developed by slaves that were in handcuffs and fighting against their guards. Another possibility for the primary use of feet is the common West African belief that hands are for creation and feet for destruction. Capoeira is usually played in a circle or "roda" (ha-da). The roda is constructed with a circle of people within which Capoeira is played. Although Capoeira may have been meant for battle the way it is currently taught it does not focus on injuring the opponent. Instead, it emphasizes on the skill.
So now you know the background, why is it so good for you? Simply, Capoeira is guaranteed to give you not only a cardiovascular work out; but also work your mind and body. While you sweat, your mind will be focused on anticipating your opponent's next move. Although all of this sounds overwhelming, only you can get in the way of your progress. This sport will help you to be more creative with your moves to keep your opponents on their toes. What’s more you’ll spend so much time learning and perfecting your moves, you’ll hardly notice your thighs toning, your upper body strength improving, your vigor and stamina increasing. Essentially your entire body will become healthier. Most aerobic exercises only tend to focus exclusively on our physical being, Capoeira also helps us to train our mental being. Below are a few of the mental and physical benefits that Capoeira can offer.

Gain a singing voice
Enhanced Mobility
Spatial awareness
Increased Flexibility
Development of another language
Rhythm
Provides a personal creative outlet
Strength
Gain self-confidence
Endurance
Foster cultural identity
Cardio-vascular fitness

While this is a great way to get and stay in shape it should be noted that people thinking of beginning a life as a Capoeirist need to be certain of their flexibility as well as their strength. For more information on strength and flexibility please see: http://www.planetcapoeira.com/comments.php?id=12_0_1_0_C. This site beautifully describes flexibility, the types of flexibility and strength training one can begin to prepare one’s self for Capoeira. As always before starting any new exercise program you should always seek the advice of your health care professional. You should always ensure that you are training with a licensed fitness professional.

Copyright © 2006

The original article was posted on October 9th, 2006 on EDGE Boston.
See the original article posted below at:
http://www.edgeboston.com/index.php?ch=health_fitness&sc=fitness&sc2=features&id=2884

Bio for Author Anya Nicole

Being raised in the ghetto of West Philadelphia has not stopped this young writer from seeing her dreams come to fruition. Anya Nicole was unwavering in her strength to preserve to make life better for herself.
Anya’s childhood was spent with her older sister in a single parent home. Watching her mother go from job to job and use welfare to fill in the gaps had a profound effect on a young Anya. Her mother did her best to ensure her daughters grew up right and had all that the needed. In turn the aspiring author took that lesson and applied to her own life. She received a BA in Communications from Temple University and a Masters in Health Education from Saint Joseph’s University. It has always been Anya’s hope that she would create a life that would be comfortable for herself and her family. She knew that her vast education would help her provide that life.
Yet while fostering her desire for a sound education the joy of writing entered her life. In the 3rd grade when Anya won a poetry writing contest she suddenly realized that words brought her world to life. She had found her calling when she discovered that through words she would be able to bring her life to the eyes of others.
Anya has said, “I am a writer who writes about what she sees and encounters. I want people to see what I see.” That is exactly what she has been able to do. She brings street life situations and methodically interlocks them with drama and intelligence. She has spent most of her time fine tuning her ability to describe stories in vivid detail. This was something that became of great value to her when she began writing for Philadelphia Metblogs.
While Anya has always been set on making her dreams come true she has had an amazing amount of support behind those dreams. Writer, Karen Quinones Miller has been a true mentor and believer in Anya’s ability to succeed. Karen comes in second to Anya mother; who Anya counts as the loudest person in her cheering section.
With so many behind her and while admiring Urban Literature writers such as Nikki Turner, and Kwan Foye, Anya became driven to finish her first manuscript.
Yet life continued to intervene, Anya proved she wouldn’t be broken. Although to some people, difficulty in life and seeing people that she loved struggle and die everyday may have been a negativism, to Anya it was fuel for the fire. “Growing up not knowing where we were going to get the money to pay the electric bill or put food on the table; and seeing my mother put cardboard in her shoes to preserve them so we could have new shows and clothes on our back, changes a person.”
After college was over, and her success had been acknowledged by her friends and family, society still threw Anya a rough deal. While working at a store as a checkout clerk she was looked down on, disrespected and robbed at gun point. “There were people throwing their change at me and looking down at the job I did. Here I knew that I was just as educated as they were. I hated it, knowing I wanted to write and being stuck behind a counter bagging groceries.”
Even though she had hit a low point Anya looked back to the determination that her mother had raised her to have. It was always her intention to become a role model for other young kids in the ghetto, so that they would know they too could be more than society suggested to them. She was able to find a job in her community and began focusing her attention on finishing her first novel, which she completed in 2006.
Her novel Corporate Corner Boyz pays homage to Anya’s knowledge of the streets and her vast college education. This is an author to watch and a woman who is destined for more than greatness can define.

Kahnma the West African Songtress

16 bars won’t be necessary, all it takes is a single note from Kahnma to command the attention of any room. Although small in physical stature, this West African princess has stage presence that is as enormous as any super star. Kahnma’s genuine and honest music is a step in a new direction leading us on a delightfully fulfilling path. Her soulful style masterfully blends R&B and Reggae, and with it Kahnma is guaranteed to have the industry’s attention.

Yet it hasn’t been all melodious harmonies for Kahnma. She is no stranger to struggle, at the tender age of ten Kahnma fell victim to Liberia's civil crisis, which landed her as a refugee in America. Since then her sole purpose has been to bridge the gap between African and American culture through her music. She plans on doing this by being able to relate to her American audience and as well as bringing awareness to the destruction of her homeland. Identifying with the struggles of Bob Marley, the drive of Lauryn Hill and the playfulness of TLC, she's uses her love for music to overcome her battle of being what she calls a "war baby".

As a singer songwriter, and performer, Kahnma has worked with R&B star Montel Jordan, opened up for Musiq Soulchild, Blu Cantrell, and Bad Boy recording artists Boyz n The Hood. Most recently she will be featured on Bizzy Bone's latest album. Kahnma can be seen performing in clubs all over the country including Atlanta, Georgia's Apache Cafe, Columbus, Ohio's Brownstone and the legendary House of Blues in Los Angeles, California. With the acceptance of artists such as Beenie Man, Baby Cham, and Def Jam recording artist Rhianna, the world of entertainment is more then ready to fine tune their ears to what the lovely Miss Kahnma has to offer.

Arrangement Copyright © 2006


To hear more from Kahnma please go to: http://www.myspace.com/kahnma1

Bio for Bigepac

Some may know him as Kade, others as IAMRAP, or K-Rida; but he's made his greatest success as Bigepac. Regardless the name the talent is the same. Bigepac, born Kyle L. Jones now represents the 610 as the newest up and coming thing in the rap game. With the stage name Bigepac this artists delivers as much as the name projects. He uses smooth and twisted metaphors like the late Biggie Smalls; but his own personal life has given him struggles to spit about. Bigepac started performance at a young age, and although his sound may be reminiscent of the late TuPac Shakur, Bigepac brings a style that is purely his own.

During a particular performance where many important and potential investors were present; Bigepac wasn't nervous. He took the stage and made it shine. Once his lyrical genius hit the mic and his creative beats hit the speakers Bigepac was on.

He has created popular singles such as As I Sit Back which chronicles his relationships with his clique and his determination in the game. The song tells of his ability to be laid back but still keep his serious street credit while he runs things. A second single Too Many Fish In Da C outlines relationships, rebounding and enjoying the club scene. Both of these singles are club banging and have received club play in popular local clubs. Currently Bigepac is in the process of planning highly anticipated concert events.

This is only where the story begins with Bigepac, he’s got a history.
Watching his family go without did not put a chip on the shoulder of this artist. He missed out on much as a young child and the struggle did take its toll. He had to make do and make many a sacrifice in order to come out with positive results. Despite his hard times he never lost sight of his dreams and his ambition to make them happen. It was always his belief that his dreams would one day benefit not only himself but his children's children. Bigepac was quoted as saying that;" Although times were rough and it looked like I was going nowhere fast my dreams drove me." That is basically what he has done, he has stayed driven.

Dealing with the ups and downs of project life hasn’t stopped Bigepac from making it happen. While working on his first and second album Bigepac started his record label Heaven or Hell Records. He now has a strong grouping, of talented artists under his belt. These artists can be seen spittin' and harmonizing all over Bigepac's lyrical creations. Look for up and coming reggaeton artist King Caesar, and reggae artist Nan-Do Boom, as well as singers Melissa, and Nida and guitarist MF Steve.

Bigepac plans to take the industry by storm. He has the intention and the know how to take the world to new places with his force and creativity. He has a complex business mind and a serious drive to become more than a success. Don't sleep on this artist/businessman, because Bigepac is building an empire.



Learn more about Bigepac at www.heavenorhellrecords.com



Copyright © 2006

Car Commerical

Missy is very jumpy, excitable yet a tad slow and the weaker of the two. London is dominant, and snotty.



Missy: Like Omigod London look at all of these leftover 2006s. There’ll be like no way the 2007s will fit. We needa like, do something.

London: Ok ok be cool Missy, you don’t want frown lines.

M: But 2006 is like so over, ABC Toyota is supposed to have like the best deals, we gotta tell people…[London interrupts her]

L: Can we like focus? We’ll do a commercial.

M: Oh I can I be in it.

L: I said we.[In a snotty tone]

M: Ok, yes…so like what’ll we tell people.

L: That ABC Toyota has 2.9% financing… [Missy interrupts her]

M: On select models, oh that’s like hot.

L: [She gasps] Uh, like totally rude Missy, could you like not interrupt me!

M: Sorry [Wimpish]

L: And like I’ll get to tell them that ABC Toyota has leases on Corollas for $199…[Missy interrupts her]

M: Don’t forget the $299 leases on Camrys.

L: Missy if you interrupt me again you are so not in the commercial!

M: Sorry, can I tell them where ABC Toyota is?

L: [sigh] Fine.

M: When should I tell them?

L: Now Missy…[In an annoyed tone]

M: Come to ABC Toyota on Main Street Yourtown.

L: Are you happy now?

M: Uh uhn and I’m ready to do the commercial now.





Copyright © 2006