Rainy Day Diva™

New York Times Best Selling Author, Kimberla Lawson Roby, first introduced us to Alicia Black in The Best of Everything.  After shopping her way to divorce court amongst other things, Alicia is back in Be Careful What You Pray For, and has fallen head over heels in love with and married, Pastor JT Valentine. Not only is he handsome, but he’s just as ambitious and charismatic as Alicia’s father, the Reverend Curtis Black.  I’ve been a fan of Roby since she debuted some years ago with Behind Closed Doors and she just keeps getting better. In Be Careful What You Pray For, Alicia tries to forgive herself for her mistakes in her first marriage, prove she’s worthy to others and convince herself that she deserves to be happy.  Besides, Pastor Valentine is doing quite well financially, so he must be “the one”.  As always Roby delivers an entertaining read. I always feel that I am right there with Alicia. When it comes to scandal, I don’t know how Roby does it. I always think I know where it’s going but she delivers some surprises.  It was a page turner, but I finished the final chapter with a few thoughts that made me go ‘hhmmmm’.

In the real world I’ve met an Alicia or two.  They think they’ve got everything figured out, especially when it comes to matters of the heart.  They often refuse any advice from anyone because any and everyone is not qualified to tell them anything.  You know this chic too, right?  You’ll often hear them say things like, “I don’t need so-and-so’s advice because I grew up with 5 brothers and so I know the game.”  Or, “I saw what my mother/sister/aunt went through.”  Sometimes they even admit to past mistakes, “been there done that.”  What baffles me is that most times, these women are in the same relationship gumbo as the rest of us, sometimes with extra hot sauce.  They marry a man who’s game is tighter than their wack brothers, a junior version of their father/uncle/brother-in-law or  the same guy they had before in a different package or income tax bracket.  So my question is, when it comes to love and relationships, do we learn from watching others, or is experience the best teacher? Or do we ever learn at all?  Your thoughts?

If you ever get the opportunity to hear Lisa Nichols speak, do so.  She is phenomenal, but in any event you can learn her principles for living triumphantly in her book, No Matter What.  Nichols reveals the personal and painful mistakes and lessons she learned that led her to becoming the motivational speaker she is today.  Her key message is that obstacles and setbacks can be overcome using your “bounce back” muscles.

She discusses how to change your negative perceptions and how to “get off the nail”–those situations in life that you need to change, but haven’t because they don’t cause you enough discomfort to spark action.  Once you read that chapter, you’ll be motivated to get moving.  Nichols is also author of Chicken Soup for the African American Soul

It’s on my shelf, what are you reading?

Today’s Quote:

“Keep on moving don’t stop.” Soul II Soul

If you listen to the Steve Harvey Morning Show you know that he has written his first book, Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man. The book was written based on the popularity of the Strawberry Letter segment on his syndicated morning radio show. I love the Strawberry Letter, where he gives advice to listeners (usually women) who want his perspective of some issue (usually romantic) in their lives. I purchased a copy of this book and it does not disappoint. Now I’ve heard and read many comments from women stating that they are reluctant to read Steve’s book based on what they may have heard about him in past relationships. Well, this book is not advice on relationships. Harvey simply explains how men think, feel and react in relationships. I don’t think many men would be honest and candid enough to really give up this kind of information. If you have ever wondered “why”, “how”, or just shaken your head in frustration after trying to understand your significant other’s point of view, you might want to pick up a copy. Let me know what you think.

Essence has released a new book, The Black Woman’s Guide to Healthy Living. This is one you might want to add to your collection. This guide covers everything from prevention testing to reflexology and each section has specifics for every decade of life from 20′s to 50′s. I love the fact that they include Happiness as part of a healthy living book. There’s even a food journal and recipes in the back. I think this is a good book for everyone. The chapter that focuses on exercise takes you beyond step class, suggesting yoga and African Dance–that’s fun you should try it.

What didn’t surprise me is that they didn’t mention Willpower & Grace. Yoga and Pilates are pretty commonplace. Most people have heard of them even if they haven’t tried it. Willpower & Grace is something you should add to your list of things to try thus far. It is an exercise class that takes functional and dance moves (think ballet, not hip-hop) and focuses on your strength and balance. Now if you were to watch a class, you’d think oh, that’s nothing, looks easy. Think again. Your first time will probably leave you feeling anything but graceful. But it does help with posture, toning, balance and strength and believe me you will break a sweat. Ask your gym if there is a trainer certified to teach Willpower & Grace and sign up. Oh, and Willpower & Grace will require your participation in bare feet, so you might want to get that pedicure first.

Since we’re talking health and exercise, what are you doing different to get or stay in shape this year?

Today’s quote
Health is where beauty begins.