{The First Family: Takes A Walk to The Museum}

The "First Family" is all smiles as they take a walk from the White House to the museum. Sasha, Mrs. Obama, President Obama and Malia all scroll through Washington D.C with happiest written all over their faces. The family outing led them to 'The Corcoran Gallery of Art'. Which happens to only be a few blocks away from the White House House.

The Obama's took interest in the show '30 Americans', an exhibition of contemporary African American Artist. It's a wide range of work by many of the most important African American Artist in past three decades. The main focus of '30 Americans' is the racial, sexual, and historical identity in the contemporary culture. All the art is selected from the "Rubell Family Collection", which was established in 1964 in New York City. The Rubell collection is on of the world's largest, privately owned contemporary art collections. This collection of art dictates the way the artists views black identity in America. Like, civil rights, pop culture, and media imagery. While adding it's knowledge, love and artistic legacy & influence.

The exhibit includes work from: Jean-Michel Basquiat and David Hammons. Also, upcoming youthful artist like Kehinde Wiley and Shinique Smith.

The photo below is one of many  pieces out of the "Rubell Family Collection".

If you are interested in checking out the exhibit go to http://www2.corcoran.org/30americans/ . The exhibit goes on tour to many states. Find out when it's in your area and get informed.

Thanks to the Michelle and Barack for sharing this knowledge with the girls Sasha and Malia. Knowledge is power and art in some way or another helps to tell the story!

*Smile*

Jennifer Hudson: Book.. Hits New York Times Bestsellers List

Who would've knew, that a young woman from the small town of Chicago would be on such a great journey today. Jennifer Hudson, the down home girl that we remember from 'American Idol' is doing big things these days.

She made her debut on 'American Idol' in 2004, where she made it to 7th place. Later, to be voted off. After the singer was televised on the hit show. She was casted along with Beyonce to take part in the movie 'Dream Girls'. She won an Academy Award for her role as a "Supporting Actress". Then, a year later she dropped her first album with 'Arista'. The album was self titled 'Jennifer Hudson'. In 2008 she was ask by then (Senator Barack Obama) to sing the National Anthem at the Democratic National Convention. Sounds like only good things were happening for her at this time. But, as we all know 'he who is giving much, much is expected'.

JHud, was dealing with health and weight issues. So, she decided on Weight Watchers. She choose them because she needed a plan that would match her busy life style. Jennifer states that she loves the changes and the effect that it has on the people around her. With all the ad campaigns and music videos why wouldn't this be inspiring? I mean this is such a great thing, so great JHud just had to write a book about it.

Yes, along with other credentials Jennifer Hudson can now add 'Author' to the list of amazing things she has accomplished. The book is titled 'I Got This: How I Changed My Ways and Lost What Weighed Me Down'. I would love to give you all more information on this piece of literature but I haven't even read it yet. I'm waiting on my shipment from Barnes & Noble "as I blog". (LOL) It was only $13.98. Ha! Can you say, bargain?! Well, if you can't say it just know I got it. I'm always down for a new/good book. If you're into reading you should pick it up, order it or download it to your smart phone. I'm sure it will be worth every 'pretty penny'! I won't forget to mention that it is considered a best seller by New York Times. Jennifer Hudson keep pushing there's no limit in what you can do as an artist. Stay prayed up!

I can not end this without giving her a big congratulations on that NAACP nomination for "Outstanding Female Artist" along with other nominations like "Outstanding Music Video" (Where You At) and "Outstanding Album" (I Remember Me).

 Wish you many blessings and good luck on snagging those awards!!!

{If you are interested in seeing JHud take home these awards or anixous to see what she's wearing and how (ladies I'm sure you are). Tune in February 18th at 8pm on NBC.}

*Smile*

Angelina Jolie & Why She May Quit Acting!

The 36 yr old actress says 'she loves acting' but wants to go behind the camera (full-time), directing is why she's thought about quitting acting. Angelina states that she would still be willing to act but the roles have to be 'worth it to her'.

Early, this month Angelina received the Stanley Kramer Award at the Producers Guild Awards. "In The Land of Blood and Honey" which she wrote and directed is what put her in the position to win this award.

But, she hasn't quite called it quits just yet. The stellar actress is that her talents to a live/action fairy-tale in the near future titled "Maleficent". Jolie says "it's cool for her kids". In this movie she plays Sleeping Beauty's nemesis. When asked how make of a nemesis will she be, she replied "She has horns and all". (I can imagine the sneaky grin she provided after saying it.) I guess this role is "meaningful".

She finished off with saying "But if I don't find any roles worth it, I'll be nice to shine the spotlight on another actress you think is extremely talented and give her the spotlight." Passing the torch is always good. Ms. Jolie we need more people like you in the entertainment industry.

*Smile*

{Gone Too Soon} Etta James

Sleep easy, Etta James!!!! I know I'm not the 1st to report this but I have to pay homage to a LEGEND! A soul who's way of expression was through song. A tone that pierced many souls and helped calm an aggravated mind. A woman at peace, with patience and precision. I could go on and on and talk about her music, career and the things she's accomplished but I just want to remember her as the person. Keep It Simple!!

Maria Menounos hits the "Tim Tebow" on the Golden Globes Red Carpet!!!

This pass week Maria Menounos attended an event and put the stops on us all! The TV host was arriving at  the Golden Globe Awards and as she walks down the Red Carpet, she strikes the "Tebow". Knee to the carpet and elbow to knee. (Surprised???? I am also but tickled at the same time.) I guess football and women aren't that far detached after all. And, Yes! She was in a stunning gown and still managed to look GREAT! Sometimes beauty is a tad tomboyish!!!!

*Smile*

Cindy Crawford's Daughter to Model {The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree}

Cindy Crawford's daughter, Kaia has landed her first gig with Versace. In the photo below Kaia (age 10) is posing for 'Young Versace'. Cindy states "I'm so proud of her and being there on set was such an amazing experience". I'm sure she's more than ecstatic about her daughter landing a job with one of the most popular and sort-after designers in the industry to date. Donatella Versace says "just like her mother she has a special gift and the camera loves her a lot". I'd be just as impressed with my daughter if I were in Cindy's shoes. I guess some things are in your veins. #Werk :-)

Happy Birthday: Michelle Obama {Flotus}

First, I want to start by saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the 1st Lady. Mrs. Michelle Obama!!! I'm sure with this being the beginning of an election year she's way more busy than usual.

Already in the past week our Flotus has attended many meaningful events. Like, an ICarly episode screening {Imeet the First Lady}for Nickelodeon, The BET Honors, Charity work and the "Let Freedom Ring" concert in Honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (And you thought you had a busy life, it isn't even February YET!!) *wipes forehead* :-)


As I stated, our 1st Lady appeared at the BET Honors this past Saturday. She was said to honor the GREAT poet Maya Angelou. This ceremony took place at the Warner Theatre in Washington D.C. The taping of this award ceremony will air on February 13th.

Well since we're talking about honors, let's keep going. The President and The 1st Lady spent their "Martin Luther King Day" doing charity work at the Browne Education Campus in Washington D.C. They ended the night with the "Let Freedom Ring" concert that took place at the Kennedy Center. [As seen below]

If you didn't know, she's celebrating her 48th Birthday. The 1st Lady {along side President Obama} spent her day at a White House event where they also celebrated The St. Louis Cardinals who are now the 2011 World Series Champions. ....[Captured below in a photo]

*Smile*