Several Things African Mothers are Not Here For.*

(*Or, rather specifically, my African mother) Discussing anything having to do with shaving or other such topics with your adolescent, hirsute daughter, leading her to make the type of mistakes and gaffes that defy description. The idea that Idris Elba possesses any kind of good looks and responding to statements of that vein with comments such as, …

Favorite Author Spotlight: Flannery O’Connor.

I discovered her in college. I'm surprised we didn't meet earlier, being that--other than my actual home--I lived in the library stacks. I stalked books, really; grabbing whatever my greedy hands could locate on the shelves, investigating, searching, making friends with the Dewey Decimal system. That said, I find it intriguing that in all my library …

Thank Ya, Mama.

  Thank ya, Mama, for genes that make me look 21 years old. I don't want to return to 21, but it sure is nice to look it. (This photo was snapped by my good friend and talented photographer during a trip to NYC a few weeks ago. That's her IG handle. Check out her …

San Diego.

In 2001, I had a nervous breakdown. No need to sugarcoat it. I lost it. I was 22 years old, a receiver of news that changed my entire life--I couldn't breathe. I was wild-eyed and crazed. All that said, while sitting placidly at work one day, I went on a travel site and booked a …

Meanwhile, in Paris…

   "Shall we cycle to the Louvre, *mon petit chou?" "Oui, let's." Photo courtesy of cyclechicparis.com, via Pinterest. Imagined conversation courtesy of moi. (*my little cabbage)

The Age of Adaline.

First, here's the trailer. Now let's talk. Can I tell you that I cannot wait to see this film? It's everything This Square Peg loves about a good film and a good story, really: intrigue, a little romantical (not a word, but feel free to make it yours), mystery, a bit of sci-fi, and Harrison Ford. …