Gandhi Wisdom

Live and be Happy

XOXO

Jah

A Chance to Sing

I was in Europe when I received a text from a friend asking if I would be interested in doing a singing gig with her and a mutual friend (my BFF). I immediately replied yes but just as quickly regretted it. I decided not to worry about it since the gig wasn't till an entire month away. Well, soon enough the days leading up to the date became disastrous for my stomach, my confidence and my nerves.

The nervous stomach knots were natural considering I haven't "had" to sing in front of an actual audience in years, and I mean YEARS. I do the ritual karaoke nights almost weekly but I don't think that counts. This was a legitimate gig and I was terrified. See, music and singing is one of my greatest love in life and thankfully for me I happen to know how to sing. But it took me a long time to confidently acknowledge that. The fact of the matter is that the thing I love the most is also the thing that frightens me the most.

The gig was this past weekend. It was to accompany the band singing back-up at a lovely garden wedding in Lancaster, PA. The entire experience was magnificent and one I will not soon forget. I was careful to follow the other ladies lead and concentrated on my parts as best I could. I sang, danced and interacted with the crowd. It was a good time all around. As the night progressed I became more confident and more relaxed. And although I was encouraged to sing a lead I stuck to back-up. Baby steps for me, thank you very much. In all it was a huge accomplishment for me. It was having my biggest fear and love collide in one. 

I don't know if another experience/opportunity like this will present itself again but I'm grateful for it. It helped boost my confidence to another level and it feels great. Maybe now someday sooner rather than later I'll actually get up and try that open mic. 

xoxo

Jah

Enjoying a New York Summer

Wow, would you believe this amazing warm weather we are having!? I was desperately waiting for it. Now that Summer is here it's time to come out and play... but be sure to play safe.  Always wear sunscreen - the sun is not always merciful. 

New York City is never short on things to do so make it a good summer.  Go to the park with your friends and enjoy a tasty picnic, listen to music, read a good book, catch up to the latest magazine gossips or just look around and enjoy the scenery. And if you are having trouble figuring out what's hot the Vanity Fair Summer 2010 is always a good reference.  

Remember to stay cool and hydrated.  Have a great weekend!

XOXO ~ Jah

NY Streets

The phrase "Only in New York" can be used loosely or taken quite literally. As in ONLY in New York would an animated car cruise down the streets of the West Village blasting Michael Jackson.

This guy actually cruuuuuuised down the street slowly drawing a small crowd of dancing admirers.  Yep, only in New York.

xoxo
Jah

Letting Go

The Small Treasures

Traveling on holiday is always fun! The anticipation of experiencing a new culture is exhilarating, and equally as exhilarating is the shopping. This was a huge incentive for us. Our mission was to save the European economy and I do believe we managed to put a small dent in it. Over time we became slightly obsessed with how much our luggage weighed - it was a small victory each time the needled hovered slightly below the 50 lbs mark. Towards the end of our trip we had each acquired an additional carry on duffle bag. 

I've gotten tons of compliments on the outfits I've worn lately which I relish. I found some amazing pieces and lovely little treasures. My obsession however are towards the ones I can wear daily - It's a constant happy reminder of where and how I got them.

On the above shot:
This small LANCEL Paris "Premier Flirt" pocket book was my "special" buy.  A birthday gift from my parents. I got it in red because I believe that a red pocket book brings you good fortune (I think I read that somewhere).  I'm in love. 

My divine ring. I love it. All I can do is stare at it. A plus was finding it in my birthstone color. This I picked up somewhere near Notting Hill.

Finally, there's this charm bracelet by REISS. I struggled with this one. I contemplated weather to keep it or not for 2 days and even attempted a return. I guess it was meant to be because it now never leaves my wrist.

I wonder what special buy the girls are obsessing over?  I'll have to ask.  In the mean time, here's a photo of us just 4 hours after landing in Paris.  Not sure if you can see it but by this time the jet lag was on full force. We easily drank two cappuccinos and Coca Colas each. 

[From Left: Shelly, Dee, & Moi]

Chat Gem Photography | 5

Here are a some pics from my recent travel. Of course this is not all.  I took over 600 photos! These are the one's that captivated me the most for one reason or the other. Enjoy!

The Perfect Day at du Musee du Louvre

The Perfect Day at du Musee du Louvre

On our way to the Notre Dame de Paris

"The Moulin Rouge" - Paris

This sign for you, London

Portobello Road Rainbow Colors - London

The View - The London Eye

Windmill - Amsterdam

Tired Cow - Amsterdam

The Row Boat - Amsterdam

Inspired ~ Reintroduction

I've been on quite the hiatus these past couple of months. I lost focus and honestly I lost interest in my very own blog. The initial purpose got lost somewhere along the way and I slowly transformed it into a gossip sight.  Yuck!! 

I recently celebrated my 30+ Birthday by taking my very first European trip.  Paris, London, and Amsterdam was on the agenda and well... wow! A friend once told me that celebrating a birthday is truly the time to set goals and expectation for yourself. I love that! I now embrace that.

For one I've decided to not let fear get the best of me. There's no greater fear than fear itself, right? Next, I decided to LIVE and be happy (don't worry I was never depressed), but I refuse to let my 9-5 dictate my life. Finally, and as insignificant as this may seem, I've decided to blog more often. After all, I am a Gemini and often have tons to say and tons to share. And so with no real purpose other than another creative outlet, please allow me to reintroduce myself:


Hi, I'm Jah or Chattering Gem.  I hope you like what you have seen so far and I hope you stay a while.


XOXO
Jah (Chat Gem)


About the pic: I was lucky enough to be in London during the exhibit of the artist, Tanaz Dizadji "Elephant Parade".  It made me giddy with glee. :)