The Infamous T. Ronise, Houston Socialite

My Idea of Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T23:50:00.000-08:00

Two of my favorite things... A Red velvet cupcake and a diamond ring. Saw this on Pinterest and had to repin it. I actually created my own Valentine's Day pinboard for a competition, but I didn't care for the guidelines. Thus no entry in the contest. Click here >> http://pinterest.com/tronise/happy-valentine-s-day/ for the amazingness that is Pinterest.

What a Difference a Day Makes

2012-02-09T14:34:00.000-08:00

This time last week I was returning from my mini vacation and anniversary celebration in Las Vegas with @iamjsimon. It's February 9th, and I'm bored to death. I can't go back to Vegas right away, but I can recap my trip. It was AWESOME! We got VIP treatment pretty much everywhere. Our hotel, The Palms, had great service starting with Robert, who checked us in red carpet style. Ken, our blackjack dealer who dealt me winning hands.I won $125 that I spent at H&M in The Forum Shoppes at Ceasar's Palace. Nove Italiano on the 51st floor with the $42 spaghetti. Although I didn't get the "spaghetti of the sea" as J. Simon called it, I did enjoy dinner. I enjoyed everything about this trip because I got away from reality, and I wasn't reminded of my employment status.

As far as my employment status, I have now been unemployed for approximately 16 months. That's right I have not worked full-time since October 2010. How have I survived? The grace of God! I used to have a part-time job to fall back on, but all of those options dried up. I pick up temp assignments here and there, but no consistent income. So now what? I wait and go to hot yoga. And wait. Any other suggestions?

Stop SOPA

2012-01-17T21:06:00.000-08:00

I am on a blog strike.

Lucky 13?

2012-01-13T20:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday the 13th! Just like splitting poles or opening an umbrella inside, it means nothing to me. I don't believe in such superstitions. It's too stressful to remember all that stuff. You screw up your so-called luck by having to think about what not to do or what to avoid. Why spend life missing out on stuff if you don't have to? I'm always trying new things and I definitely have a few in mind for this year. We are now entering week 3 of 2012, and so far nothing exciting has happened. It's only January so it's cool I have 11 months. I probably should've gone to a casino tonight to try my luck. However, I have Las Vegas to look forward to in a couple of weeks.

I created a list of other early 2012 things to look forward to:

Red Tails--A movie about the Tuskegee Airmen produced by George Lucas. Story is Hollywood didn't want to produce it because they wouldn't know how to market it. Whatever. Go see it January 20th so we can show them just how to market to us.

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo--Tickets go on sale January 14th at 10am. I haven't been to a concert there in years, but they usually have a pretty good turnout. John Legend performs for Black Heritage Day, March 2nd. I also like Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire, Lady Antebellum & Enrique Iglesias. Plus the World's Championship Bar-B-Que contest, woooohooo, I am ready. February 23rd-25th!

Crawfish Season--OMG! I saw a sign in front of Sam's Boat on Richmond that said "Crawfish season starts next week." I almost ran off the road. That is how excited I am! Be on the lookout for more restaurants offering crawfish in the coming weeks! Hopefully these restaurants will have decent batches this year.

Until then enjoy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Remember it's a day On & not a day Off.

What A Year It's Been...and the Best has Yet to Come!

2011-12-31T14:10:00.000-08:00

Initially I was going to tell people about the parties and places to be for NYE. I've been kicking it on Pinterest so I changed my mind. I decided to do something different. You know be a little inspirational. I'm sure you've heard about the "Ciroc sponsored" party at the Wortham, Madd Hatta's party at the J.W. Marriott, the Jeezy concert at Reliant Arena and of course where we're going the Mint Condition/Toni Tony Tone concert at Arena Theater. There are tons of parties tonight! Everybody's advertising on everything so they don't need my help. Especially not for free since they're charging an arm and a leg to get it.

Now here's how I will be helpful. A lot of changes have happened in my life, and I'm proud to say I'm the happiest and most content I've ever been. I'm looking forward to 2012, but I'm also grateful for 2011. I'm sharing reflections from this year and my anticipation for next year.

My Highlights from 2011 and Expectations for 2012

Greatest Lesson Learned: Appreciate what you have before it's gone.
I used to have a BMW 328i. I miss it dearly, and honestly I took having a car for granted. No need to go into what happened to it, but another car replaced it and now it's gone too due to maintenance issues. This isn't solely about luxury items or other material things. It's about being happy that you still have breath in your lungs and a fully functioning brain. Those too can be taken from you in an instant.
"..We take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude."-Cynthia Ozick

Hardest Obstacle of the Year: Functioning on a limited income/no credit.

If you didn't know, I haven't worked a full-time job in over a year, and my business is well um... let's just say it's under construction. I've worked temp assignments for the last 10 months, as well as part-time promotions jobs. As much as I hate working in an office on a regular schedule, nothing beats a full-time pay check that consistently comes in! However, I'm working on a plan for 2012 that will allow me to rejoin the workforce on my own terms. Nothing's guaranteed, but death and taxes. But I've survived knowing,
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.--Psalms 46:1 (NIV)

Favorite Memory: The day my relationship with my boyfriend @iamjsimon became official.

January 31, 2011

Mushy, yucky, yeah yeah I know. But I never thought that I'd be in a relationship with someone who genuinely understood me. We've been friends for 10 years, which helps tremendously. Our 1 year anniversary is a month from today and I can't wait to celebrate. He helped me through the roughest patch of life I've ever seen, and I love him even more for sticking around after.

Looking Forward to in 2012: Everything!
I'm ready to travel again (going to Vegas for our anniversary), see my friends get married (got about 5 weddings to attend),help plan my niece's 1st birthday party, and get my Iphone (yep I'm going to the dark side) and a surprise I'll have to recap after it happens. Overall just live life while I still have it to live.

Want to Learn: How to sew and a few other DIY projects.
Yep I wanna learn how to sew. One of my friends "Why? They have people for that." LMAO! I know I know, but there's so much cool stuff you can make instead of buy! It's the Pinterest habit that's taken over. Wanna know what Pinterest is? Find out here.... http://www.mediabistro.com/prnewser/pinterest-interest_b31868 It's my new obsession. Sign up at your own risk.

Want to Get Better At: Closing Deals and Creating Results
Sounds like salesman jargon, but it's something I need to work on. I meet lots and lots of people at random. Some of which are very influential, others not so much. The gift of gab was given to me by my mother, and that allows me to converse with these random people. However, nothing comes out of these friendly conversation. I need some business deals or something. I will close some big deals in 2012!

Biggest Goal: To Be Self-Employed Full-Time!
Yep that's right! I filed my DBA 2 years ago this month, and I kind of piddled around with the work and referrals I've received. I feel the need to go in a different direction so I'm working on a new vision for Socialite Status and The Infamous T. Ronise. Send some prayers up and wish me luck!

Now that you've read a few of my 2011 highlights feel free to share yours. Don't let this year end without reflecting on the good times because that's what important. Ring in the new year with an open mind, kind heart and a helping hand!

Happy New Year y'all! Be safe and God bless.

Gifts for the 99 Percent

2011-12-12T22:20:00.000-08:00

Despite the marketing ploys of Lexus, Audi and Mercedes Benz a new car will not be outside my house with a red bow. I'd appreciate if it was though. And that Gucci Fiat commercial... Come on!'Scuse my language but ain't nobody buying that! Watching those spots makes me want to pitch at tent at nearest Occupy protest. I'm sure I'm not the only one that's strapped for cash, so this won't be a list of "gifts for the person who has everything" or "gifts under $100" but they're $99. Why do media outlets make those lists? Just stupid. If you understand my sentiments, check out my list for those of us that have two nickles to rub together. Even if you don't understand look at the list anyway.

This glass zipper bag is awesome. I found it on Uncommongoods.com. Only $20, and it's not your typical candy bowl. The best part is it doesn't have one of those tacky designs you can only use seasonally. Great gift for a guy or girl.

Attending a Christmas party and need a gift for the host/hostess? Try these wine glasses. Get a festive set of four for $24.95 from Pier One. You can also use this for a work or family gift exchange if there's a limit of $30. Don't buy this for a kid though. They won't have any use for them other than to give them to their parents.

Looking for a kid's gift that isn't an XBox? The Bop It! XT is available for $19.89 at Target.com. The perfect unisex gift. My little cousins introduced me to the original Bop It! a few years ago. It was so popular with our family we had to fight my grandmother to get a chance play it. She won of course.

Speaking of grandmothers, Etsy.com has the perfect handmade and vintage items for grandmothers, mothers, aunts, etc. So many categories to choose from I couldn't pick just one gift. I would post this mink stole that was only $83, but I don't need anybody stealing my ideas lol! If you didn't get the male figure in your family there are several options like the nflshop.com, nbastore.com or the choices I gave for Father's Day. Don't want anybody regifting this Christmas season so make the effort and view those sites. I think I covered all the bases for family and work, and I saved you a trip to the mall. Good luck & happy online shopping!

Adventures of a Christmas Party Bartender

2011-12-11T10:27:00.001-08:00

If you haven't noticed I do things just to say "I did that". It also doesn't hurt that these are paid opportunities. This past Saturday I worked for a hospitality events company as a bartender. The job was a temp assignment where I worked at the Hilton Americas for a company Christmas party. Technically, I'm not a bartender. My qualifications include a TABC license, mixing drinks at friends parties plus numerous bar trips & happy hours. Not your typical bartender experience, but I guess it was enough to work at an open bar company Christmas party.

The day started a little messy due to the fact that I was not told where to meet. No problem. I walked around the hotel and asked until I got an answer. After I found the group I was supposed to be with there was another problem.... my shoes. I was told the uniform was a white tuxedo shirt (which I bought), black bow tie (bought it), black vest (bought it) and black dress pants (had them).

However, just like the exact location of where I was supposed to meet, shoes were never mentioned. I didn't think it was big deal since I'd be BEHIND A BAR! Needless to say it wasn't. The real people in charge didn't even blink about my shoes. They cared more about the drinks.

The shoes I had on. Behind the bar.

The topic of conversation was my name of course. We had to wear name tags, so that was a great conversation starter. I think the drinks I created were a hit because several people continued to come back to my bar. I made $50 in tips from pouring wine, opening beer and shaking out a couple of mixed drinks for 4 hours, plus I still get another check from the agency. Pretty cool huh? I'd probably do it again but not for that company. Working with that agency gave me a few ideas though, so we'll see what I come up with for 2012.

Specialty drinks I created for display

Shout out to my girl Crystal, @itscdb for the bartending tutorial Saturday morning, the use of her bar tools and for the info about the assignment!

This Just In: The Year is Almost Over!

2011-12-01T19:46:00.000-08:00

It's December 1st and only 30 days left of 2011. I don't know about you, but I've seen a whirlwind of changes over the last 11 months. And I expect a lot more to come in 2012. I won't say this was or wasn't my year. However it kept me on my toes. Let's recap shall we? Turned 28? Check. New niece? Check. Cohabitation with significant other? Check. Gained weight? Check. Attended at least 3 weddings? Check. Skipped 10 year high school reunion? Double check! I think that sums up the major events. HA!

Anyway..... what shall I get into for the rest of the year? Well let's start with Art, Beats & Lyrics sponsored by Gentleman Jack (Dec. 2nd). This is the 3rd go 'round in Houston at Warehouse Live. It's a combo art & music show, plus libations all for FREE! You must RSVP and you must be 21. I went to the 1st event in Houston last year and the vibe was really cool. Grown and sexy? Nope how about mature & flirtatious? haha! And speaking of that overly used phrase, the man that coined it will be at the Toyota Center on Monday (Dec. 5th), Jay-Z & Kanye West's Watch The Throne tour hits Houston. This chick here will be watching Twitter, waiting to hear about it though. My ticket connect is no more as I am no longer in radio promotions (short story... I quit). Tickets are still on sale starting at $49.50, but the good seats are $100-200 before all the service charges & taxes. I priced them when the tour was initially announced this summer. My conclusion was the company producing the show as well as the artists performing were clearly not concerned about the economy. I am also aware it's not their job to create fiscally responsible entertainment. If I had it please believe I would be in that building. Judge me I don't care.

Looking for economically sound and/or family entertainment? Try Discovery Green! Our city will finally benefit from the bi-polar weather with Screen on the Green. Every Thursday until January, weather permitting of course, you can watch a movie for free on the lawn, thanks to IKEA Houston. Tonight's movie White Christmas is one of my favorite holiday classics. You can also find an outdoor ice skating rink at Discovery Green as well. The rink opened Thanksgiving Day and will remain open through January 22nd. I'll be out there in a few weeks with my alumni association. It's only $10 so I can manage it.

$10 can get me into the movies too (matinee). I'm keeping super busy until this career of mine picks back up. If you have vacation time in the near future you can either wait for my review or check out The Sitter on December 9th with Jonah Hill. I think it's his last movie he did before his drastic, yet amazing weight loss. Also Charlize Theron's new movie Young Adult comes out December 16th. Seems pretty funny, but it's a limited release opening so not sure if I'll be catching that immediately. Last but not least The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.... gotta see it. The only recognizable actors for me are Daniel Craig (James Bond) & Christopher Plummer, the dad from the Sound of Music. Either way it looks really good. It's based on a book, which already has a European version of the movie so I hope it doesn't disappoint.

For my 2011 grand finale..... I got nothing. My end of the year to do list is 21st Century Susy Homemakerish complete with learning to sew, DIY projects, party/gala planning, learning to cook different things. Judging? Meh.. whatever.

Back 20-something stuff, NYE anyone? I'll locate the parties and get back to y'all. You find them, please feel free to share. 30 days left y'all! Do Something and let me know how it turned out!

Fashion Fierce Party

2011-11-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Halloween isn't my thing, but fashion is definitely something I'm into. The combination of the two came together Sunday October 30th for the Fashion Fierce Party sponsored by The Law Office of Crystal Henderson at Grooves on Pierce. This was the third installment featuring shoes from Makeba Collins' Shoezy Lover Boutique, in honor of the boutique's 1 Year Anniversary and benefiting the organization Change Happens. The turnout was pretty decent probably about 120 people, although there were a few of the reserved seats that were empty. Maybe because it was a Sunday night or because people were too tired from Saturday night's pre-Halloween parties, either way they missed out. It was one of those you had to be there to see it events. Hosts Tami Latrell & Jesus Walks got the show started at 8:30 p.m. Yep you read it right. Jesus Walks. Pronounced the Spanish way. *T. Ronise Shrug*

Doors opened at 7pm, which allowed guests to browse the Fashion Fierce Marketplace. I didn't purchase anything, but I found a few options for Christmas & birthday gifts. Nicole Baker of Guilty Pleasure Cosmetics displayed products that might give MAC fiends an inexpensive option for that fresh "beat" face. Lipsticks, lip gloss, eye shadows, foundation and blush from $12-$31. My favorite was the lip gloss kits; 3 travel-size glosses in a cute black box with a pink bow. I'll be purchasing a kit for my next trip. Another purchase I'm considering, is a clutch from C. Bentley's Novelty Handbags. Leather, suede, feathers, fringe.. I was mesmerized by these designs from across the room. The hand sewn clutches by Candy Bentley are $20-$120. She started making the bags after being inspired by the stylish Girlfriends (Joan, Toni, Maya & Lynn). The creations are her own, however she does custom designs as well. Just don't ask her to recreate a bag you've already seen. I mean seriously what's custom about that?

Outside of the Simon Now Fashion show & CAU's Homecoming shows, this was one of the better independent shows I've been to. Thanks to Elite One Agency for allowing me write about this event and to Jonathan Simon from Eight Hour Films for the pics! So many pics to choose from, here are a from the show featuring my favorite designs from Envy Boutique, Buffalo Exchange & Glam Boutique. More to come from the Infamous T. Ronise, I promise no more long breaks!

Reality Check

2011-09-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Good day all! I have returned to blog. No I didn't go anywhere. I'm still walking around with my empty passport. I'll use it in due time. I just took a brief hiatus for the month of August. I started two posts, but couldn't remember what I was trying to say so they're just saved. I visited Haak Winery in Santa Fe, TX which is 20 miles outside of Galveston. Pretty cool place if you like live music and wine. I'll have to go back to take the tour. I also celebrated my cousin's 30th birthday, a very big deal since she celebrated 2 years since her double lung & heart transplant. Attended another Heineken Red Star Access show with Wale & Melanie Fiona. Both are pretty decent live performers, and I wouldn't mine paying to see them again. Overall August was a very quiet month for me.

Now let's get into September. My niece Zakerria Michelle Thomas (not sure if I spelled that right) was born on the 7th. We'll be calling her Z or Ziggy. She's the reason for all the excitement in my family since she's the first baby in about 10 years. I'll be sharing more about her in the future. The NFL season officially starts today. Thank God there wasn't a lockout. Now what I definitely was not looking forward to is the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks on the U.S. No disrespect to the families of those who lost their lives, but that was an extremely scary and sad time for the entire country. That period in history brought a lot of the changes we know and ~~hate~~ love today like TSA, the Patriot Act and that lovely color coded system that determines if we're safe. Airports and traveling haven't been the same since. Which leads me to wonder if W. could go back in time and do things differently would he? I wasn't president and will probably never be, but if I could go back in time there are a few pearls of wisdom I would give myself.

Last month was quiet but also a silent reality check. I constantly think about how I could change the course of events in my life, whether it was a week ago or a year ago. I'm aware I don't have that power, but if I did I'd start at the point when I first became an adult. 10 years ago.

10 years ago I was an 18 year old freshman cheerleader at Clark Atlanta University. This was my first time on my own and I was ready to take on the world! Little did I know I was not in control. lol!

These are the 10 things I'd tell my 18 year old self.

1. Find a job on or near campus no matter what the 'rents in Houston say.
2. Apply for scholarships after the 1st semester, this is a necessity in the college experience.
3. Stay away from credit cards at all costs even for emergency Nike Shox!
4. Date the dude that you considered to be like a brother, he's a much better boyfriend.
5. Save that money you got for graduation life is so much easier with it!
6. Closed toed shoes are cuter in winter.
7. Study hard! 3.2 isn't bad but a 4.0 will help when you change your major in 2 years.
8. Join something other than the Texas Club, they'll always be there.
9. Try out for Morehouse's cheerleading squad and Essence. It's for the best.
10. Next year will be harder than you can imagine, but it's just a sneak peak of what's to come so stay prayed up!

What current advice would you give yourself from 10 years ago?

Black, White & Why Good Times is Still Relevant

2011-07-23T16:06:00.001-07:00

American society is supposedly in a post racial era since we have a biracial president that people still identify as black. The campaign process is starting over again for 2012, and the last few months everything I've read on the internet and in the news says otherwise. There's a wanna be presidential candidate saying black children were better off during slavery. A congressman just called the current president a "tar baby", and a new study states Blacks and Latinos are even further behind in the "racial wealth gap". Does that sound post racial? Not to me. Corporate greed, high gas prices, debt ceiling, tax cuts, cutbacks, Tea Party, GOP, Democrats, recession. To me all of these words are synonymous with white collar. Another word that comes to mind is oblivious. The people that represent Americans on an international level honestly are not in touch with America. Education cutbacks are higher than ever, but so are complaints about how lazy and unintelligent American kids are. Unemployment fluctuates, yet newly created jobs require you to sign your life away. Political parties are claiming to take their country back, but do they remember who's had it for the last 200 plus years? The future of this country is up in the air. Some may say up in smoke, if people don't start paying attention to what's important. NFL Lockout, NBA Lockout, MLB steroid scandal, "reality" TV, movies, music, technology. Entertainment is what we care about and for good reason. It's an escape. But how long should the escape be?

I started writing this before the Occupy Wall Street protests

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda: Creating Your Own Opportunities

2011-07-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

We don't always do what we want to do, but we do what we have to do. That's something I always heard growing up. I've heard it a lot more often within the last 5 years. For those of us who went to college (both graduates and non graduates) this is the way of America. This post is inspired by my experiences, as well as articles and news stories I've come across concerning the current economic climate. Factor in a few conversations with friends as well.

As I've said in other posts, I was taught after high school you go to college, and after college you get a good job. This good job helps you become independent and live the good ol' American dream. Today that isn't necessarily the standard. Today's scenario goes a little more like this... college/debt (paying back loans & credit cards)/ first job offer/benefits(health insurance & 401K). If you're lucky, you go to graduate school which will defer your loans, if you had any and then you wait for a job offer from there you get the benefits package, eventually to be laid off with very little notice. I opted out of grad school in 2006 because:
1. I didn't want anymore loans.
2. No idea why I would go to grad school.
3. I was tired of school! *Side Note: I made an attempt Fall 2010.

Those reasons were why I took my first official job at FSN. I started working at 16 so that was the one job I did not hate. I saw a future there. I made lifelong friends and worked for the best supervisors. Only drawback was it wasn't challenging enough so I was bored to death after 6 months. Yeah yeah blame me and my generation. We want too much too fast. No one should have ever told us "The World is Yours" if it really isn't. I tried to stay, and even attempted to transfer to another city in a different department, as I was told I could after 6 months. No success. The verdict: I was either overqualified or under-qualified. How I was both I have no idea.

I stayed there for a year and a half before leaving for what I thought was a better opportunity. I was totally wrong. After being at the second company for 2 months they were discussing pay cuts for a job that already underpaid me. I worked 12 hour days for clueless supervisors with no management skills. The last straw was when one of them tried to chastise me via email. I went to her office to ask her about it, and she was no where to be found as usual. I tried to handle the situation as professionally as possible via email. Nothing was accomplished so I left. Yes I walked out. Never left a job without notice in my life until November 19, 2009. It was a day of freedom!

Since that day almost 2 years ago I've been searching for my next job/career/opportunity. I've worked contract and temp assignments. All of which I took because I was doing what I had to do. Get money to pay my bills. After a life changing experience last year I gave notice at the contract position I was working. I no longer felt the need to do what I had to do. It was time to do what I wanted. You grow up with a plan whether it's detailed or general, it's still a plan. My plan was general, but I always had a mental list of what I wanted to do. Listening to parents, grandparents and other elders say what they wanted to do or should have done while still living pushed me to do what I want. Present tense. I want to live with no regrets. I want to be an inspiration to others. When all is said and done I want to hear God say "Servant well done."

All this talk about the economic debt that greedy politicians and corporations created should make everybody say "you know what? I'm doing what I want." Why sit around and discuss it when we still have the freedom to pursue dreams. If we all did what we wanted the economy, and maybe even the government could be a lot different. This is not PSA to be irresponsible. It's a wake up call to say be a little more responsible for our own lives and stop living by everyone else's plans. God has the final say. Don't wait for someone else to approve your plan. Shoulda, woulda, coulda never did anything for anyone so whatever it is GO. Do it! I'm T. Ronise and I approved this message.

*Disclaimer: Unless it's in a movie.... I only support legal stuff. I'm just saying.

An another scene from Accepted for further motivation.

A Promotions Story

2011-07-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

I decided to write this after explaining via Twitter how I started working in the Promotions department for a group of radio stations here in Houston. My start there was 2 years ago. I started in the whole Marketing/Promotions game 4 years ago when I couldn't find a job after college. Here's how the story goes....

Picture it.... Houston 2007. I was working in the tennis & fitness club of a local country club here in Houston as well as a luxury handbag store in Sugarland. Yep I had two jobs, but they were only part time. When the scheduling was good I would average about 52 hours a week. When it was bad I'd get about 35 hours a week or less. Two jobs....$18/hr between the two. No doubt about it I definitely lived at home. Stayed with my mom & step-dad and sometimes my aunt & uncle, so rent was not an issue. No car note because I had a 2006 Honda S2000 my dad "bought"me (another story) for graduation. What I did have to pay were those good ol' student loans. Neither job required a lot of skill nor a college degree. However, both my managers were emphatic that I had the necessary background to secure the prospective positions. What were the assigned tasked that required my awesome background? Welp, I answered the phones, scheduled appointments for massages, and I sold purses that pretty much sell themselves due to the brand's reputation. No skills really necessary. I was reminded retail was not my calling after working for & with individuals who couldn't help but judge me since I had two jobs. Consequently, I resigned after 2 months.... before I got to use my discount, but also before the huge influx from Mother's Day business. So everybody lost! The country club situation was worse. I worked there for almost 4 1/2 months. Around the time I earned benefits, I received the paper work to start processing my insurance and 401K. A creative story (a lie) about me not locking up at the end of the day, and how I was continuously late resulted in my termination. I was pissed! All that time I worked there dealing with people who looked down on me... once again because I had two freaking jobs. Not knowing I had a college degree, but assuming I wanted to do nothing with my life but answer phones and sell tennis rackets.

Here's where the promotions part comes in. So recap.... I started with two jobs and then ended with zero jobs. Remember I still had to pay student loans. What did I do? I pounded the pavement, applied here, there, everywhere. Sent emails with resume attachments to family, friends, friends of family friends and whoever else said they could help me find a job. And when none of that worked I went to good old Craigslist and found the Marketing/Advertising/PR section. In that section I found a listing for "promotional models". I was a little skeptical at first, bu the compensation said it paid $25 an hour! This was one job. I previously had two jobs that only gave me $18 an hr! To apply all it required was a picture and a resume. I sent it immediately and received a response the same day. The promotions manager needed help immediately. My first promotion was at Ralston Liquor as an Alizé girl. I passed out samples of Alizé Rose at liquor stores all over the city! That job was the most interesting and fun job I had ever had! Seriously, how can passing out free liquor not be fun. Ok there were incidents with a drunk or two, but it was still fun! My actual 1st day I worked, my mom came in the store because she saw my car parked outside. With a huge smile on my face I said, "Hi Mommy!" She spoke, but still had a panicked "what in the world are you doing" face. I think she thought I had become a whino, and started hanging out at the liquor store. When I explained what I was doing she seemed a little relieved, but of course I had to explain two or three more times. When I slowed up on asking to borrow money the 'rents and my aunt & uncle were pretty much "get it how you live" (do what you have to do).

None of my previous jobs had I felt so welcomed. The people I worked with understood my struggle, that I actually had goals and were super supportive. I'm actually Facebook friends with the promotions manager. In the end, that experience helped me to work in radio promotions, for an NFL team and with other promotions projects around the city. That experience made me who I am and I wouldn't change it for anything!

Family First

2011-06-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

At the present time I am on the road to Pontiac, Michigan for a family function. A funeral for my uncle to be exact. He was a pretty cool dude. Technically he was my uncle by marriage, but in my family that doesn't matter. Over the last 5 years I've learned a lot about family, and not just mine. Family can make or break you. I grew up with two younger brothers that are technically my "half-brothers". We don't use that term though. When you're family none of that matters. My family has been my support system, cheer section and more often than not my personal bank. Some people didn't grow up with the same thing, which is why I said it can make or break you.

I think about the tons of stories I have, especially the ones from my early teens. I missed out on some stuff because I always wanted to hang out with my friend & her family rather than my own. Mostly because she had more relatives close to my age. As a teenager you don't understand how to value something that important. Some people become adults and still don't value them. This is close to my heart because there are folks out there that don't understand family is all you have sometimes. No we don't get to choose them, but why not make the best of what you have. I complain about my family sometimes but I still love them all. If you have a family member you haven't talked to in a while you might want to give them a call or send them an email. Do it just because. You don't want to wait until you have to say good bye.

The Art of Reinvention

2011-06-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

I had a conversation with a friend regarding the job market, work/life balance and education in the United States. What I concluded from that conversation was America needs to master the art of reinvention. Celebrities do it all the time. Why can't the government do it? Makeovers are glorified on television. Image is everything. The public loves reinvention. Madonna started as a sex selling "Material Girl" singer in the 80s; mediocre, biopic actress in the 90s, and evolved into a mom & children's book author in the early 2000s. What's her current title? Iconic entertainer. Reality shows are documents of career reinvention. Look at Kim Kardashian, self proclaimed socialite & amateur porn star (no I won't let that go) reinvents herself as an admired entrepreneur. Product of your environment? No problem. Robert Downey Jr., talented, troubled actor started doing drugs with his father. He is now the acclaimed, rehabbed thespian we love in the Iron Man series. Micheal Vick, the highly popular NFL quarterback & convicted felon transformed to an apologetic animal rights activist earning his way back to the top.

Catch the theme here?? If you didn't let me summarize, bad isn't forever. You go through stuff, learn from it and create something new from your lessons.

The economy is rebuilding from corporate greed, politicians are ending their careers over social media mishaps, and a self-appointed historian is riding around on a bus to "learn about Americana" that she should know about from the 5 schools she attended to receive a bachelor's degree. But I digress.

Here's what I suggest the government do to regain our trust & establish itself as the once respected country people would give everything to become a citizen.

1. They can stop telling kids going to college will get you a good job. Not right after graduation it won't. It will actually get you a good amount of debt. Sure there are scholarships, but if you're going to graduate school or a professional school (law/business/medical) those scholarships are hard to come by. Bring back technical programs. Encourage business ownership. All this hollering about "nothing's made in America anymore." That's because people think they're too good to work! By work, I mean manual labor or anything outside of an office. Stability is no longer working for a corporation.

2. Stop with these unrealistic expectations. I work to live not live to work! Just because I'm single with no kids does not mean I want to be at work more than 40 hours a week. It also does not mean I want to work on holidays. More time off should be allowed. Getting ahead at work is not what it used to be. Layoffs are a little more regular. The economy is pretty iffy, so why waste all your time at work? Don't misunderstand, I'm a hard worker, but I don't want to spend my whole life just working.

3.Government officials, don't have me vote for you and then decide to implement your own agenda for financial gain. We vote you in office. Start looking out for us and not yourselves! Government money needs to be spent on community needs. Yeah we have a deficit, but who doesn't have debt. Don't cut our money to give to others. And by others I mean other countries! That makes no sense. Cut your pay and let me know how that feels.

4. Stop acting like America is the end all, be all! Yes I love being an American citizen, but I don't like how this country puts itself on a pedestal. There's more to the world than America. Kids should know there's a lot to learn about outside of America and the world isn't as scary as people try to make it.

5. Every new idea for change will not lead to anarchy. Change is good.

If I missed the mark or left something out let me know. Now I'm off to explore so I can share with the lost what's out there and how I can master the art of reinvention. For your entertainment, one of the best scenes in Head of State.

Summer's here! -- Father's Day & Summer heat

2011-05-31T21:25:00.000-07:00

Technically we have 20 days until the official start of summer, but in Houston it's already started. No seriously... 101 degrees last week. Madness I tell you! Anyway, if you haven't had your share of graduations and weddings yet....they're coming. Don't forget about Father's Day June 19th. Here are a few gift ideas for dads, uncles & grandfathers to break up the monotony of ties and tools.

Astros tickets-- I mean they've done Groupon deals. You can't get a better deal. 5 separate series going on in June. Even if you don't like baseball, beer & cotton candy can help you make the best of it. Not together though.

Groupon & Living Social--Special deals everyday. Gives you two options 1. You can purchase a deal they might like as a gift. 2. Take the cheap route and just sign them up for the deals. Go with #1.

Houston Beer Festival--Dads like beer, not all but most. Early present for Dad on June 11th.

Last suggestion. If you must purchase your dad/stepdad/uncle/grandfather/father figure any clothes, go to Marshalls or TJ Maxx now! You catch the stores early you find pretty decent stuff.

Events to catch for June

Italian Expo-- June 3-5 Fashion shows, food & wine....all things I love. George R. Brown is the venue for the entire weekend. www.italianexpo.us

Free Press Summer Fest--Concert at Eleanor Tinsley Park--major artists Weezer, Big Boi & Bun B. Catch this June 4th & 5th. Make sure to check the website for ticket prices and what is and isn't permitted on concert grounds. www.freepresssummerfest.com

Prenatal PIYOLET--June 4th- Pilates, Yoga & Ballet for the expectant mommies. The Motherhood Center on W. Alabama hosts Roslyn Bazzelle's 1st official prenatal workshop. www.piyolet.com for registration information.

Hot PIYOLET --June 11th--Same class, too dangerous for expectant moms though, and in elevated temps. You'll definitely sweat. If you can stand the heat, bring it!

2011 National Senior Games- June 16-30- Formerly known as the Senior Olympics, Houston is the year's host. I'm volunteering because I am amazed at the senior citizens commitment to their sports. They might still need volunteers if you're interested. Most if not all of the events are free. George R. Brown is also the venue for the majority of the sports.

I haven't left the city in a while, but I'm working on it. Get on those gifts y'all I warned you early!

Hope to see you around Houston! ;)

May Fun

2011-05-13T15:52:00.000-07:00

3 days before my 28th birthday. Yeah I said it. So what. I'm over the number. I've grown a lot over the years so I am comfortable with getting older. Besides, you're only as old as you feel and I feel 17. Lots of stuff going on in the month of May to wrap up spring and bring in that good 'ol Texas summer!

May 14-15 Haute Wheels Houston-The Food Truck Festival
Benefiting the Houston Metropolitan Chamber Tickets are $15. The ticket gets you festival entry & 5 drink tickets (beer & wine samples or 1 full glass of wine/beer). I really hope I can make it because I love love love Fusion Taco!

May 21-22 Texas Black Expo - A legitimate networking opportunity... Events on both days for all ages and families include a Youth Summit & College Fair, Natural Hair Expo, Jazz & Gospel Concerts and a Health Fair.

May 26-29 Dancin' in the Streets: Motown & More Revue -What's better than the park? Free entertainment in the park! Produced by BACE Entertanment and One Delta Plaza Educational Center. Another family event and it's totally free. I plan to catch this show. I miss it every year, but I've heard it's great. You can catch it on the lawn or in the covered seating area (check for ticket availability).

Hope to see you at a few of these events! Happy Birthday to the May babies and to me!

Long Overdue (My Observations)

2011-04-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

In the last couple of weeks I've had a few observations that I felt the need to address. These observations range from people's attire at job fairs to subtle racism to overall social consciousness. Feel free to close this window now if you don't want to read my social commentary because I have some stuff to say. Needless to say this post is long overdue.

Let's start with what I'll call Job Decorum Dos & Don'ts. There maybe more don'ts than dos because some of the stuff I observed was out of line. These need to be addressed immediately.

Don't show up to a job fair in jeans. The people you meet here are potential employers meaning you don't have the job yet. Therefore casual/street attire is unacceptable.
Don't wear your extra visible piercings in your ears, face, etc. At least not if you're applying for an office type job. Tattoo shop, bar/club, car wash are all acceptable places to apply.
Do your research about the company. Even if you don't have information prior to attending an interview you can google the company from your phone while you're waiting to speak to someone.--Behold ....The power of technology.
Do ask relevant questions concerning available positions, and keep personal anecdotes relevant, but to a minimum.

These may seem like common sense tips, however common sense isn't so common. There are several websites with relevant job information and tips for the 21st Century like Talent Zoo & Media Bistro. Change is inevitable so get acquainted with company culture before deciding to apply for a position.

Next observation: Piss poor customer service. I despise it! Sirs and madams, customer service is not dead, but it is essential in all industries. Everyone needs to learn these skills. Or just learn some common courtesy! Hello, please, thank you, excuse me, I'm sorry or I apologize are all phrases that are still pretty useful.

Last but not least, there's more on the internet besides celebrity gossip, reality show updates and porn. It disturbs me that people with access to the internet don't use it for productive purposes. I won't even go into the story about the man at the library watching Shalimar videos. Story for another post. I'm not gonna lie and say I always use it for good 100% of the time unless you'd consider shopping helping society. ha! But seriously there are so many opportunities and tons of information out there to improve our way of living or just make a difference in someone else's life. The subtitle of my blog is the Pursuit of Excellence, and it is my desire to achieve my goal as well as help others along the way. I get tired of hearing how my generation is selfish and uninformed. I suggest at least 30 minutes a day of reading or listening to something informative like AP Radio News on KTSU (public radio station in Houston) or NPR (National Public Radio). And if you have too much free time, volunteer just one Saturday out of the month. It will help more than you know.

Aristotle

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.

Thanks for letting me get on my soap box. Now go do something productive!

Daylight Savings & Daytime Chillin'

2011-03-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

Time moves up 1 hour this weekend so don't forget to move your clocks forward.

Daylight Savings time brings Spring (10 days until the official 1st day of Spring). Spring brings daytime parties, patio drinking, my birthday, oh and Sunday Funday!

What's Sunday Funday you ask? It's brunch with mimosas & bellinis, fajitas & margaritas, crawfish & beer. Food & liquor basically.

Create your own Sunday Funday this weekend! Feel free to comment with any restaurant or bar suggestions.

February Recap

2011-02-28T20:06:00.000-08:00

Today's the last day of February, the shortest month of the year. Flew by so fast I decided to do a recap.

Short and to the point...

Sunday Funday Brunch.... Mia Bella in The Houston Pavillions = Best Bellinis Ever!

Movies to See

The Adjustment Bureau: I caught a preview. It wasn't what expected, but it was pretty good.

-- Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie
-- Starts Friday, March 4th

The King's Speech: Just cleaned up at Oscars, and I am glad I got a chance to see it. Very good storyline.
-- Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter
-- True story about King George VI, Father of Queen Elizabeth

BBQ Cookoff- Houston's Mardi Gras... Food, liquor, drunks on the ground and even beads. You missed it (Feb 24-26), but make sure to check it out next year. I had a funnel cake, but I'm looking forward to fried cheesecake. Yes, fried. The Carnival, Livestock Show & Rodeo are here through March 20th.

Real Mardi Gras in New Orleans is this weekend (see last year's post for food and parade info).

Coming in March... NCAA Final Four, South by Southwest, Snoop, Mint Condition & Ice Cube at House of Blues

I'll probably finagle my way into some stuff so stay tuned!

Day 7

2011-01-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Day 7 of 2011 and I'm super motivated. I have a few new restaurants to try, events to attend as well as businesses and products to promote. Speaking of new.... I've been looking at furniture for when I move (yes again.), and I stumbled across this site All Modern.com Pretty fly stuff if you ask me. They have modern dining furniture in all price ranges. This site is for those who might want to skip the assembly process or pushy salespeople. I will be keeping this site in mind for future purchases.

Shopping makes me hungry....don't ask. to curb my hunger I'll be checking out a few new places in coming months, so I can introduce my friends to restaurants other than Pappadeaux's. Seriously I get a text at least once a week asking "what's a good restaurant other than Pappadeaux's?" Expand your horizons people! Until I visit the new places, check out Eddie V's two locations, one in CityCentre and the other in the new Upper Kirby development. There's also Fleming's, which has locations in the same area. Try those and let me know what you think.

After food and drinks should come entertainment, unless you provide your own, given you may have had a little too much to drink. I've heard rumors and truths of a few hotspots closing. No sadness here. I just see it as an opportunity for other businesses to thrive. It's called Capitalism! I'll be checking out a few places in the coming weeks so stay posted. Also get ready for the re-opening of an iconic Houston bar....Scott Gertner's Skybar in a new location.

The new year's bringing new possibilities and I'm ready. Are you?

2010 Square Biz

2010-12-29T21:31:00.000-08:00

In two days 2010 is over, a new decade arrives, and so does my dreaded 10 year high school reunion. *Note to self--Leave town.*

Anywho, I've been inspired to post/blog/write...whatever you'd like to call it. The inspiration comes from two Twitter trending topics that popped up in the last few days, #Iprefer & #2010Memories. Oh and Square Biz is a reference to Teena Marie. If you don't know who she is I'll try not to hold it against you. But I'll help you find out what you've been missing... http://eargasms.podomatic.com/
*Teena Marie Tribute Mix may or may not be posted check it out anyway*

Over the last year (11 months if we're being technical), I have shared memories and things I prefer, and those trending topics reminded me there's more I can share! So here goes....

#Iprefer

Since June, I prefer Sprinkles Cupcakes over Crave Cupcakes. I will give Crave their props for the candybar cupcake & the strawberry cupcake with real strawberry bits. Sprinkles gets the win for Red Velvet, my fave and runner up Dark Chocolate.

I prefer newbie burger joint Smashburger, who is crushing their newbie competition Five Guys Burgers & Fries. I'm not a fan of paying for food that tastes like I made it at home. In my opinion it should be better. Smashburger wins! Honorable mention goes Pappas Burger and the great memories it holds, regular spot for me and a friend. *sigh*

I prefer not working in retail. It still sucks, but it was a great way to force me to get back to normal. Remind me never to go back even if it is seasonal or for a sizeable percentage off panties & bras. I'll just wait for a sale like everyone else from now on.

I prefer going to weddings with liquor. Who doesn't? I did attend one that had no liquor, however it was in the morning. It was probably the best wedding I've ever been to! It was so much fun I have video on my phone. I think I'll get permission from the couple before I post it though. Still liquor free weddings aren't always for me. #imjustsaying

#2010Memories

January/February-Inner Me Studios & pole aerobics; Mom's birthday party at the Horn; Valentine's day date at Churrascos; Gentleman Jack's Art, Beats & Lyrics

March/April- The Hustle also known as Socialite Status PR & Promotions; The Struggle also known as trying to get paid!

May-The Best. Month. Ever. better known as The Infamous T. Ronise's Birthday Month! No further explanation needed.

June/July- Passport applied for & received, usual domestic Traveling, Weddings, Pure Bliss.

August/September-The End of the Road. Beginning of the Wilderness.
See "Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart" & "Pain, Healing & the Work/Life Balancing Act"

October/November- Reality resurfaces.. a smidge. CAU Homecoming 2010, Viva Las Vegas, The Greek & Italian Festivals (shoutout to @ladidahdi & @bauski), Thanksgiving Eve & the unfortunate return to seasonal retail.

December- The light at the end of the tunnel and glimpse of the future! I have two more days left so the possibilities are endless.

The excitement of 2011, and the fresh start the new year brings is extremely promising. No matter whether you had a good or bad year, take the time to count your blessings and be thankful you lived in 2010. Then let 2011 know to get ready because it's on!

Have a safe, and blessed New Year y'all! New posts coming in January!

'Tis the Season for Reflection

2010-12-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

10 days until Christmas and 16 before the start of another year. This year was pretty rough, but we all have survived. Have you made the moves you wanted to make for 2010? If not, I say don't sweat it. It's motivation to work harder next year. I've grown a lot this year and I want to contintue my growth. I don't make New Year's Resolutions, however I would like to make a goal list for 2011.

Here are my goals (personal & professional) for 2011:

Pray at least 2 times a day....even when things are going good.
Join two professional organizations PRSA & AMA
Leave the country.. I mean visit another country.
Build and maintain strong client list.
Don't worry.

Sounds simple, but we'll see. Here's hoping for the best! Anything you'd like to pursue? Feel free to share.

25 Days until Christmas Gift Ideas

2010-11-30T21:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas decorations have been in stores since Halloween, but I say we can NOW officially get excited about Christmas. I may not get any gifts, but in case you would like to buy me something lol! Here are a few early gift ideas for all those hard to please relatives.

The Gift for Everyone: 25th Anniversary Super Mario Bros Edition Red Wii

The Gifts for Ladies--Mom, Sister, Girlfriend, Wife, or Me... :)

L.A.M.B grey suede wedges

Juicy Couture Studded Pave Earrings

The Gifts for the Guys....

Fossil Red Face Watch from Piperlime.com

Argyle Sweater from Gap.com

I'll have more gift ideas to come but you can also check Piperlime.com, shopstyle.com & Gap.com.

The Formula to Reality TV Money

2010-11-16T00:35:00.000-08:00

There's BIG, recession proof money in being a Reality TV star. If you haven't noticed the trend on TV, let me enlighten you. Reality TV is no longer about giving the world a glimpse into the lives of regular people, like you and me. I don't think it's been that medium for probably 7 or 8 years. From my observations, I've seen hundreds if not tons of people make a come up just from an appearance on a reality TV show. It's free promotion for a business (how I learned about The Palms), upcoming projects, or an individual. It all started with the Real World & then Road Rules on MTV. Those people stayed on the challenge shows forever! I always wanted to be on both shows, but I couldn't quite figure out how to audition. Then came the self-improvement shows like Made, and the strategic last man standing type shows like Survivor, Big Brother and The Bachelor/Bachelorette series. Don't forget the "vote for my livelihood" shows American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance.

From years of watching TV (and I do mean years) I think I have figured out the formula. However, this formula does not include making a sex tape with a Z-list celeb or dating an entire league of professional athletes. That would be part of the formula to extend your 15 minutes of fame, an entirely different post I'm not sure I even want to touch. But no finger-pointing will take place here, so as the saying goes "Get it how you live." My thoughts are everybody doesn't want to work a regular 9 to 5, and Reality TV money is the ticket out.

My conclusions come from recently watching hours of Basketball Wives, Real Housewives of Atlanta and Beverly Hills, Jerseylicious and Oxygen's newest gem, Running Russell Simmons. Remember this is not a guaranteed formula, so consider it a hypothesis. The common threads I found here are attractive, strong personalities, and a love for attention. There's nothing wrong with those characteristics because I have a few myself. However, when you combine such traits with impracticality, materialism and narcissism, you get pandemonium/entertainment, which results in high ratings. High ratings equal advertisers. Advertisers equal money. Hence reality TV money! The more "outgoing" (ridiculous) the personality, the more money the personality receives. I tweeted the other day "People love to watch train wrecks thus the evolution of Reality TV"

Need proof? Try the cast of Jersey Shore, Laguna Beach/The Hills, and the Real Housewives franchise (mainly Atlanta & NJ) just to start.

~~Formula~~ Hypothesis B is to attach yourself (leach off) to a prominent figure while you're a cast member of the reality show. See Running Russell Simmons. His "interns" ugh....you just have to see for yourself. Remember Making The Band (2-4), not the original, but Diddy's version. You can probably name the people from his version before the original. Some of the participants had a few projects before their 15 minutes were up. You might not have even known his wasn't the original. All I will say is Diddy's King of the Remix...take that, take that. :) Dawn of Dirty Money (formerly of Danity Kane) is one candidate theory. I won't knock her hustle because if I were her I'd hold on tight too, no matter how many careers that Bad Boy has killed. Once again I've created a topic for a separate post.

To sum this up....I need that reality TV money! The public's fascination with Jersey is going to die down soon so I'm working on ideas for my reality show concept. Not sure if I could handle my life playing out on tv or in public, but you can't help but watch others. Especially when they're paid.

Feel free to comment with your favorite reality show, past or present. Some shows were train wrecks and some were gold mines. Makes me miss Temptation Island. haha!
Deuces!
Holiday posts coming soon y'all!