Searchin' 4 Dionne...

Whatever happened to Dionne Marie Taylor?  I first fell in love with this ‘love to hate her’ character during the one of the first episodes when Dionne, played by Shanti Lowery, fired back at Tasha Mack.  Remember when Tasha asked Dionne to stop playing with Melanie’s head?  Dionne retorted, “…You think I’m one of your little Sunbeams who’s scared of you?...I manage images not insecurities…Melanie’s head is not my problem…”  What could Tasha Mack say to that?  Nothing, except to invite this “on the nose” character to an Appletini.  That offer was readily rescinded when Dionne stuck it to Tasha as well, by leaving her with the thought that Malik was vetting other managers behind Tasha’s back. 

From then on, Dionne played her role of nemesis, well.  She dipped and dodged, weaved in and out of the lives of the Saber women and men.  She always kept her composure especially when she threatened to expose Derwin’s little secret about having slept with Drew Sidora.  Little did we know that Melanie was listening and this altered the life of team Merwyn, forever.

As cold and calculating as Dionne seemed, she did show a softer, compassionate side when she took Melanie in as a housemate in Season 2.  Dionne connected with Melanie’s plight, and we connected with Dionne.  We championed Melanie and Dionne’s unconventional friendship, even after Dionne slept with Melanie’s ex-boyfriend, aka Superman, aka Mr. Slushy.

But what happened to her?  She dropped off the face of Saberland, never to be seen again, not even for Melanie and Derwin’s wedding.  I am sure we’ll see a lot of new faces with this upcoming new season on BET and hopefully some old ones too.  Maybe we’ll learn that Dionne and Superman actually made a go of things….

Traveling for the Holidays? A few tips to keep you sane...

Remember in season 1 when Melanie had to study and couldn’t go to Derwin’s first away game?  He sent her an invitation at the Sunbeam meeting via flowers and "janky poetry."   The guys forced Derwin to rescind his offer and well we know how that ended up.  Dionne, Derwin’s stylist and Melanie’s nemesis shows up at door Merwyn looking fabulous.  Melanie, studying while looking like Celie opens the door and her jealousy kicks in.  Not only are Melanie’s green horns emerging; her face turns to fire when she learns that not only is Dionne heading out for the “Away Game”, Dionne advises, “I go to all the away games.” 

Well Girl Melanie has to pack and past fast.  She has to get from San Diego to Miami and she has less than an hour to do it.

 Now in Saberland, a last minute packing trip is cute, everything fits and one doesn’t have to worry about security, long lines or fees for checked luggage.  In the real world, there are ways you can get around additional fees for checked luggage and save money and time by condensing your contents.

1.      Get an airline transferrable roller bag.  Airline transferrable means, your bag will fit on most airlines.  Most airline carriers limit carryon bags to dimensions of 9 x 14 x 22 or 45-51 linear inches.  Keep in mind every airline is different and bin size varies by not only airline but by plane one is traveling on.  So although your bag fit on your latest Continental flight, it may not fit on your next. @RainyDayDiva suggests Swiss brand, yes like in the knife; Saber Blue.

2.      Condense your contents.  Remember this is a quickie, you need at best 2 interchangeable day outfits and a basic black outfit that can be dressed up or down with jewelry and accessories.  Perhaps you get one basic bottom and several different tops.  Wear one pair of shoes; carry the other.  And instead of folding your items in your roller bag, roll your items or use space saver bags. 

3.      Reduce the amount of bags you carry.  Remember the first down is to get through security; the field goal=the gate.  The Penalty=return to the ticket counter to check your bag.  If you have to check your bag at the plane because the carrier has run out of space; you don’t have to pay.  If you have more than 2 bags, security will issue a penalty.  And you’ve lost the game=miss your flight.  Limit yourself to two bags, your roller bag and a purse.  If you have a laptop, flatten your purse and put it in your roller bag and use your laptop case for a dual purpose; purse and laptop until you reach your destination

4.      Abide by the toiletry allotment size and don’t grab the facemask.  You are allowed one clear plastic bag of three less than three ounce toiletry items in a carryon.  The amount of liquids you carry are unlimited for checked luggage but remember this is a quickie, we are trying to avoid checked luggage and fees.  So rather than have to part with your favorite perfume or lotion, carry samples & travel sizes of your must-haves.  Check out TSA.gov for more information about guidelines.

5.      Take Care of any food and/or allergy needs, be prepared.  TSA limits liquids, water bottles etc.  However they don’t limit food.  Airlines sell food and usually don’t provision food for a completely full flight.  Bring a sandwich, some cheese and crackers or something light to carry but filling while you are on the flight.  Opt for free beverages while on the flight; get your drink on when you get to your destination.  I watched as a man paid twenty-four dollars for four Heinekens while on a two hour flight.  Are you kidding? You can buy three six packs for that.

6.      Finally, Be Prepared.  Remember you are riding on public transportation, two engines, not 3D or 5star.  Bring a book, a magazine, have something at hand to entertain yourself.  Buy a compact pillow & blanket set, most airlines don’t provide any longer and bring a jacket and your patience.  Airline travel is very delicate and a number of uncontrollable issues can affect a flight.  Always remember, you get more with honey than vinegar.

Now go get ‘em & go.  And when you get there, tell Melanie you made the 1^st down by listening to tips for travel from Girl TD.  Go Sabers!

What Now, What?: BET Addresses The Rumors

Kelly, Melanie and Tasha Mack

The Internet has been abuzz about our favorite show for the past few days and this time it's not a good thing.  Rumors hit the net that actress Brittany Daniels (Kelly) is out earning her cast mates to the tune of $75,000 per episode.  Now this was controversial on a few fronts: 1) In the mind of most fans, myself included, her character isn't a lead role and doesn't carry the show (she could easily be swapped out, in fact she's not the original "Kelly" if you saw the first episode); 2) It just so happens that Daniels is a non-black cast member on a show that clearly is geared towards an African American audience; 3) While fans are eagerly anticipating the return of the show, BET hasn't quite fully gained the trust of viewers who want to see their favorite show given the VIP treatment.

Fortunately, this story was quickly followed by a response from BET addressing the story and calming the raised brows and side glances from the cyber world.  Here's BET's official statement:

The recent report regarding certain members of the cast of “The Game” being disproportionally paid by BET is completely false. As a matter of policy, BET does not engage in public discussions about salaries or similar private matters with its artists. However, out of our deep respect and appreciation for the talent and hard work of the entire cast and crew of “The Game,” we cannot allow such inaccurate reports to go uncorrected. To be clear, there is no disparity in salaries among the cast of “The Game.” We continue to look forward to bringing new episodes to the loyal fans of this series on 1/11/11.

The fact that BET acted so quickly on setting the record straight is not only commendable, but also reassuring that they "get it".  Fans don't want The Game to go the way of some of our previous favorites over salary disputes or not receiving the network support it deserves.  I'm even more excited for the new season to get started on 1-11-11. For all those blogs and news outlets that breathed life into this story, we've got a song dedication and a bit of advice just for you: Rumors, by Timex Social Club.  Stop spreading those rumors around!

Now that we can give a collective "Whew!", back to The Game.

"I'm Rick Fox. Rick. Fox"

Well, as you know by now our favorite ex-Laker and The Game co-star danced his way off of Dancing With The Stars.  Their loss if you ask me.  Hopefully the timing is just right and, he'll be making a comeback as boyfriend of Tasha Mack.  One of my favorite scenes with Rick is when Tasha convinces (actually she tells him) that they need to coordinate arriving to the office to keep their nosey coworkers from discovering that they are a couple.  Once it gets out of control, Rick has to remind her just who he is: Rick Fox.  "Rick.  Fox."  He explained that he was just going along with her game plan because he liked her. 

Which got me to wondering.  Just how much "pretending" is healthy in a relationship.  Sometimes it is best to go along to get along, but when should you draw the line.  So you really don't like Monday Night Football and maybe he really isn't as in to The Game as you are.  When do you break it down and let your significant other and deliver your own version of the "I'm "Rick. Fox", line?

Season 2 Highlights Team Talik Tasha Mack & Malik "El Debarge" Wright

This season kicks off with Tasha Mack coming to Melanie’s aid once again but failing thus focusing on her own career.  Tasha however is sidelined when she forges ahead to establish her own boutique agency only to be fired, by the 40million dollar kid, her son.

Malik has gotten himself into a whole heap of trouble, his money or mouth but especially his mama can’t get him out of.  Malik is feeling himself lately and he runs his mouth with the press and on interviews while starring in videos and after he has led his team to victory in the ultimate prize—the Superbowl Championship. But when Malik’s mouth writes a check his butt can’t cash, he and Tasha take the fall, and Tasha falls all the way back to earth.

Nevertheless, the Sabers win the Championship; this brings Malik more fame than he’s bargained for.  He falls in love with the infamous Robin Givens.  She’s the one woman he can’t have but he seduces her to enter into a fake marriage.  This is the conquest of his career and even though this marriage is a "Hollywood" deal; Malik hopes that Robin will eventually fall in love with him.  However, this ring planted on the third finger of his left hand is far more than he bargains for. 

Meanwhile, dejected and fired, Tasha lands on her feet by capturing the ultimate job as a sports manager with “benefits and everything” in the agency of her once nemesis, Irv Smith Management.  Tasha teaches not so slick Irv, to stay the heck out of her waters by signing on with his agency but without the ultimate prize, her son Malik.  Tasha spends the season, off and on the field trying to recapture her son, professionally but ends up captivating the love of her life, Rick Fox. 

The season ends with both mother and son in love with their dream mates and out of sorts, with each other.

Teaser: The Game Season 4 Promo

In case you missed it, BET ran a new promo for season 4 of The Game last night during Black Girls Rock! You're going to love this...

Cherry Bo Berry 2nd Season/Quarter Highlights Team Kelson

Season 2 begins with Kelly having fully asserted her independence.  She is flying high working for Tasha Mack Management.

Jason gets hurt and Kelly butters him up to allow her brother to stay in their home temporarily.  The brother has been ejected from the Track House in Reseda because of alleged drug use.  Jason reluctantly allows him to stay only if Jason can administer a drug test.  Kelly intervenes; protects her brother and send Jason’s accusations, where?  Back there. 

However Jason has a secret.  He is afraid for his career.  To offset his fear, Jason begins to take steroids but just before the first

Curvy Baby!

Foundation is one of the most important things you'll wear and I'm not talking makeup.  That's right, I'm talking body shapers a.k.a shapewear.  What you wear underneath your clothes can make a world of difference in your style and image.  Body shapers keep you firm, smooth and flawless throughout the day.  It really doesn't matter if you're a size 2 or a 12, smooth is the order of the day.  It's an unfortunate truth that cellulite doesn't discriminate.

The great thing is, we are no longer talking about mom's girdle.  Recent innovations, have given us shapewear that will flatter every style, fashion and body type-and yes, it moves with your body. Try Bali's new line of shapewear-BaliShape.  Bali recently showcased their new line of shapewear at Blogalicious with celebrity stylist extraordinaire, June Ambrose.  Notice how each of these women are different in size and shape but still look fabulous with nothing on.  This is the secret to going from fantastic to fabulous.  This gives a whole new meaning to getting in shape.  Yes, this could be you!

@Girl_TD
-Girl Denise

The Slap Heard 'Round The World! 2nd Quarter Re-cap Team Merwyn

Season 2 kicks off with Team Merwyn destroyed.  Still at the Espy’s in Los Angeles; Melanie confronts Drew Sidora in a display of mad emotion.  Derwin tracks Melanie down awaiting her car from the valet; they argue and Derwin gets the Drew slapped out of him. 

Melanie leaves Derwin, the car and the spectacle behind at the Angelino hotel only to have part of the Sunbeam Sisterhood aka “backstabbers” aka Tasha and Kelly follow behind.  They can’t convince Melanie to return to the hotel; she’s off in a cab.

Back at the hotel, Derwin is embarrassed by his Steve Harvey suit; he is taunted by Malik and Jason. Derwin and Malik tussle, actually Derwin sucker punches Malik; let the mêlée for Season 2 begin.

Both Melanie and Derwin struggle to get over one another after one last failed attempt to reconcile.  Melanie turns to college friend, pro-ball nemesis Trey Wiggs who taps back both literally and physically.  Offering her a fully furnished condo and new whip, Melanie rethinks her decision to take Trey’s help; they crash and burn quickly.  Derwin turns to a number of gold-diggers and finally lands on Janae, not a gold-digger or is she?

Melanie rejects Trey Wiggs’ offer to take over Derwin’s spot as her lover, friend, man & financier.  She opts for the land of independence, moves in temporarily with Malik and Tasha but gets kicked out for a flagrant facemask and lands on the doorstep of her once nemesis, Dionne.  Dionne takes her in, as a tenant; an odd friendship is formed.  Now truly Derwin free, Melanie meets Jerome aka Superman a local businessman with a body that would leave any massively crafted superhero in the dust. 

Derwin and Janae dance; Melanie and Jerome Waltz throughout the season.  However Merwyn’s love has never really timed out; Derjay & Jerlanie fizzle.  Team Merwyn is back in effect at the end of Season 2 but with a special delivery from the Saber blue stork.  Janae is pregnant.  Season 2 ends and so does Team Merwyn—again, once more, maybe?

The Overweight Lover

If you watched season 2, you know that while Malik a.k.a "The 40-Million-Dollar-Kid isn't shy about talking about himself, women or money- it was his fetish for the big girls that he wanted to keep a secret. That was ruined when the camera caught him smooching with Rene-a woman with curves.

Much to my expectations, Malik is just not ready to date a woman who doesn't fit what society feels should be the type of woman for a pro-baller.  It's true that this show is fictitious, but this scenario isn't.  Everyday people cave into societal and family pressure when it comes to choosing who should make them happy.  Which means they're really choosing unhappiness-but that's another story.

Just last week, Marie Claire magazine ran an article online that discussed overweight people and dating.  It's shocking to hear the views expressed, but sadly this editor is not the only one who holds these opinions. To read the full article click, here.

The good news is, there are a lot of women who may not be a size two, but are not afraid to show the world just how beautiful they are.  Anansa Johnson, Toccara, Monique and Queen Latifah are just a few names that come to mind.  To see where fashion meets curves: check out, Vogue Curvy.

So what do you think?  When choosing a spouse, lover or even friends, does size matter?

Girl TD

Girl Denise

Pooch Hall, Kandi Burrus- Leave U

In addition to shooting new episodes of The Game, Pooch Hall a.k.a Derwin Davis has found time to star in Real Housewives of Atlanta star, Kandi Burrus' new music video, Leave U.  Hall is as handsome as ever.  So now we know that Kandi really can act.  Because there's no way, she'd give such calm consideration to leaving this man.  The Game returns to BET 1-11-11. Girl TD has something special planned for the premiere, so stay tuned. 

Nip, Tuck, Voila!

Mirror, mirror on the wall, will plastic surgery fix it all?  OK, so maybe no one has phrased the consideration to go under the knife quite like that.  Still the thought of getting a nip and tuck has probably crossed the minds of more women than would actually care to admit it.  In season 2 of The Game ("Media Blitz" episode), Kelly considers plastic surgery after Jason has trouble performing in the bedroom.  

She didn't suggest herbal tea, a prescription for blue pills or a weekend away.  No! She actually considers going under the knife to make herself more "attractive".  Wow.  Sad thing is it's not so far fetched. Many women-celebrities and every day-are opting for a little "help".  I can't help but believe that some-no, many-are doing it not just for self, but to be attractive and more accepted to other people.  

Recently one of our favorite housewives, NeNe Leakes had a breast lift, tummy tuck and nose job.  While no one is going to ding her for giving "the girls" a lift or skipping the crunches, her nose "contouring" has created quite a buzz and debate.  Is it about a balance of facial features, needed confidence or negative feelings about one's ethnicity? With the show hinting (outright pointing) to NeNe's marital problems, I'm wondering if my favorite housewife has a touch of "Kelly Pitts" syndrome.

NeNe Leakes Before

NeNe Leakes After

Fortunately, Kelly discovered that Jason wasn't "up" to love-making (pun intended) because he was using steroids.  What if all the women who opted for surgery found out the truth about what the people they were trying to please were really up to?  I wonder if some of those appointments with the plastic surgeon would be cancelled. 

What do you think? Is the notion that plastic surgery a sign of low self-esteem or self-hatred outdated? 

Chaz Shepherd: Love & Truth

You may remember him as Trey Wiggs-Derwin's college rival and fellow NFL Baller.  In reality he is Chaz Shepherd and his new CD, Love & Truth has topped the charts.  Shepherd snagged the number one spot on Amazon and number two on iTunes.  His first single, Chemical Reaction, is a feel-good melody that will have you singing along, "I feel better now."  Let's hope to hear (and hopefully, see) more from Chaz in the future.  For more on Chaz check out his Facebook page, here.

View Chaz in the Trey Wiggs episode below (1:55 mark).  Enjoy!

Follow us on Twitter: @Girl_TD
Girl Denise