WE HAVE MOVED!

You may still check out all old content here but, we have a new domain with all new content on wordpress! Make sure to check it out and spread the word! www.urbanemg.com ! Thank you for the continuous support!

-UMG Staff

Urbane Premiere -MATERIALISTIC-

The DeHart twins are back with a documentary about their lives as well as aspects of streetwear and building their brand Lucid FC all by the age of 18. Check it out below!

MATERIALISTIC from Tyler Mitchell on Vimeo.
Short documentary, MATERIALISTIC, tells the story of twins Betts and Chet DeHart who set out to make their mark on the streetwear world by creating their own brand and by doing it all before the age of 18.

Directed by Tyler Mitchell
Produced by Joseph Salwen and Tyler Mitchell
Director of Photography and Editor: Tyler Mitchell
Original Music by Cameron Capers

Special Thanks to:
The DeHart Family
The Good Company

http://tylermitchellfilms.com
http://lucidfc.us

© 2014

Urbane Update -Korey Paige x Rico Ca$h 'T.E.H.Ö'-

The wait is finally over for Aloof Music Groups Korey Paige and ATL based MC Rico Ca$h's 'To Each His Own EP' you can expect hits you've already heard such as Korey's 'U.O.E.N.O' freestyle as well as a earlier collab with Rico Ca$h entitled 'Sarah' in addition to four other incredible and unique hits. Make sure to download the mixtape here as well as stay tuned for what Korey & Rico have coming next!

check out KP's 'New Year'

check out Rico Ca$h's 'Watch Me'

@IAMKOREYPAIGE

@YoungRicoCash 

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Eyes Closed, Ears Open -Nessly-

"Art doesn't come from copying the next man. It derives from being abstract and novel with your ideas. It's all in presentation."

Nessly

Atlanta, GA
 Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Stone Mountain/Lithonia,GA rap artist Nessly has been writing raps since the age of 11. Always having a ear for music in addition to writing at a young age, he recorded his first single in the summer of 2007. When describing Nessly's musical style the words creative, abstract, and crafty come to mind.  With tracks like Give It Up, In My Shoes, Lean On Me, and my personal favorite Tommy Lee Jones," Nessly showcase his creative skills with the lyrics as well as the visuals for his music videos. "I make music you can play in a Cadillac, then music you can play in a Lamborghini. I make songs where they have an old school vibe with new school lyrics or I make very intricate classical music based hiphop (strings, heavy bass, the way the chords are played) where I present a whole different side to Nessly."

'Tommy Lee Jones'
When asked about his biggest inspirations, Nessly states that he makes music for himself, due to his taste and what he thinks sounds good. He also states that he listens to Kanye West more than other artist in the industry, this can be seen through both of their genius creativity and the aspects they both come from. "I like a lot of independent artists better.. You can even tell the HUGE difference in between an artists music before they become mainstream/"industry". A lot of independent artists have creative control and aren't under a  label they have to take instructions from. In today's world many indie artists are multi talented and are forced to learn new crafts (such as production) that many industry artists cannot do since they are provided producers and songwriters."

Nessly has made quite a buzz for himself over the past year or so with his mixtapes Modern Art & Modern Art 2, but that's only two of many. His latest mixtape "January" is now available on live mixtapes as well as his official video for "Out To Get You." We an expect to see much more from Nessly in this new year.

'Out To Get You'

Connect With Nessly

Twitter @Nessly24k

Official Website

YouTube

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Urbane Spotlight -TRAP MMXIII-

TRAP MMXIII Founder Marvin Goodly
On my first encounter of meeting Marvin, I automatically received him as a hard worker, well rounded, determined, and of course fashionable. With something that started as a campaign slogan for the Howard Univeristy freshman board of the College of Arts & Sciences, Mr. Goodly saw an opportunity to spread a message and capitalize off of a brilliant idea. Thus, TRAP MMXIII was born.

With the assistance of friends Nile Oates, Justin Austin and Jacari Boboye, TRAP MMXIII has made a lot of noise in little time. The brand is based out of Washington, DC and makes a bold statement with their logo. Goodly states "We stand behind a lifestyle; an idea that we are the creators of our own success and happiness." 

 Currently the collection consists of the classic TRAP box logo tee as well as the TRAP box logo wind breaker. Being inspired by the American culture ranging from music,art, and photography to modern day fashion, the creators have many more creative ideas on the way and  continue to hold a core principal of promoting individualism and the pursuit of knowledge, Goodly says that no matter if it's through school or pursuing your passion, it is seen as something that is inalienable. With hopes to continue to make clothes that document a journey, the TRAP MMXIII sees this as an artistic & personal journey. As well as having hopes that TRAP can serve as something people can relate to and be inspired by, Goodly wants it to be seen more as just streetwear apparel. You can expect a lookbook soon including a black and white line that is being finalized as well as a Polaroid fashion movement.

'Our mission continues to be to promote the idea of living outside of the box. We want our consumers to re-evaluate reality and question what they are being told in relation to success and individualism. We hope to change the dialogue, ask the stupid questions others aren’t willing to ask. We’re on our own journey for answers, and this line documents that process. Our story isn’t the only one we’re trying to tell' - M. Goodly

Connect with Marvin & the TRAP MMXIII Team

Official Blog

Shop

Twitter; @goodlymn

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Urbane Update; Lucid FC

The DeHart twins have been a tad bit busy but, they are back at it with the 2013 Lucid FC Winter Collection,  with a strong inspiration of hard work, make sure to check out the video look-book NOW! Items will be available for purchase December 14th at noon. Follow @LucidFC on twitter for more details"

http://lucidfc.us/

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Urbane Spotlight -Sole Food Clothing-

Sole Food Clothing Owner; Brandon Huggins 

Based out of St. Matthews, SC, Sole Food Clothing has a creative style of designs that are all inspired by and in honor of owner Brandon Huggins best friend, Caleb Greene (DJ Soulfood). Also being inspired by the youth who really admire and support Brandon for what he is going after, Brandon states that he wants the line to stick out more as a lifestyle than a brand. With the slogan 'Peace, Love, Sole' Huggins also stems the SFC brand name from his love for kicks.  Not only producing clothing, SFC dabbles in music sponsorship throughout the state of South Carolina. "I feel as though music and fashion go hand in hand, so outside of my line I would like to start a music sponsorship for South Carolina,  we don't have a strong music scene and I would like to be able to bring attention to that."  

Sole Food Clothing recently had the chance to partner with sneaker boutique Sneaker FF, located in downtown Charleston where SFC designs are now available for purchase in addition to ordering via email and PayPal.


 Make sure to look out for the Solefood Music project as well as the winter look book and new designs in early 2014!!

Connect With Brandon & SFC

Official Sole Food Blog

Twitter; @BFRESH88

Instagram; @BFRESH88

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Urbane Tips: Holiday Gift Ideas For Him by @Bonobos

Ladies, holiday season is approaching and contrary to what men believe, shopping for your him is harder than expected. Are you in the process of looking up gift ideas for your him that other hims won't have as well? Well, here is The Tiny Queen and Bonobos to the rescue!

Bonobos is an apparel company headquartered in New York City, that also offers a shopping experience online, selected Nordstroms, and their own Guideshops. It makes online shopping for men easy, and gift shopping for women even easier with not customer service reps, but ninjas at your service.

They have recently launched their Man-tastic Holiday Gift Guide making shopping for your man that much easier. The guide includes color coordinated suggestions from clothing, accessories such as pocket squares and ties, a dart board, a tool box, skis, a flask, and even a trip to space! Check out a few of my favorite man-tastic gift ideas, you know if I had a him.

 This sound activated MoMa Cube Clock will definitely give your lucky guy a masculine feel to his man cave. Just snap your fingers or tap it to showcase the LED screen that includes the time, date, and temperature. Something nice to remind him to be on time for date night.

 I like a renaissance man. Who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. If you have one of those, don't let his tools gather dust in the garage or some tasteless box under the sink. A man has pride in his tools, and so do we when the sink is busted or the air conditioning needs fixing.

 Don't let your man carry his whiskey in any old cup or flask! IZOLA's engraved flasks allow your man to whip out his bourbon in inappropriate places like a gnentleman.

There's plenty to chose from for any kind of man. And if you're still unsure of what to get him, they also offer gift cards. Fellas, are you just as stumped on what to get your girl for the holidays? Well, good luck!

Connect with Bonobos
www.bonobos.com
Twitter: @bonobos
IG: @bonobos
Facebook
Tumblr

Keeping A Close Eye|UMG, The Tiny Queen

Eyes Closed, Ears Open -Bethany Rae-

Bethany Rae

Balancing her education as well as chasing her dreams, Spartanburg,SC native Bethany Rae states that prioritizing is a main key in her everyday life. Having been singing all her life and being into performing on campus in various talent shows and events, she decided to take a different route to get to her musical career.

Between the cities of Orangeburg, SC and Miami, FL she puts her main focus on her education and her business ventures before her music. Having lost a little bit of love for music during her junior year in college, Bethany states that she of course always had a passion but began to think more about her future but when coming back across the right resources she was right back with the music. Being signed to Boss-Playa Ent, an independent label, I asked Bethany her thoughts on the music industry. She states "You get more freedom, I'm a hands on type of person, I'll tell the producer my vision... I won't just let everybody say whatever. I think it's a lot better."


Talking to Bethany about her musical inspirations, she states that she has no one individual, but artists that give a kick to her 'makeup' and who she is as an artists. Throwing out a few names like Whitney Houston and Beyonce, Bethany also went into detail about her love and inspiration from legendary rap group Wu-Tang, being an avid chess player, she just states, "There's a lot of thought to it."
When coming across other mainstream artists and producers while in Miami, Bethany has had the opportunity to be apart of some amazing studio sessions as well as build business relationships with some amazing people. She says that she looks at it never as being a fan crowding a celeb, it's more of looking up to them.


Be on the lookout for Bethany's first single along with the official video! 

Connect with Bethany
Facebook 

Instagram

Boss Playa Ent

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, Halle' W

Sunday Inspiration: Learning How to Take The L's

It's often we come upon opportunities, wants, and desires that we feel that we are owed. If we work hard enough, if we rack up enough good karma, give enough, then what we want or work towards will automatically be owed to us. The journey to what we want most out of life is far from straight and narrow, but is filled with jagged rocks, dead ends, detours, and speed bumps that could be our friends, families, financial trouble, and our own inner battles. This door above is symbolic to ones that may open, and ones that you might not have a key to. I'd like to share a story I rarely tell on how one door was cracked open and then slammed in my face, while one that was the most unexpected welcomed me in.

So, it is my second semester of my junior year of college. I decide that I want to do something amazing for senior year, I want it to be an unforgettable, hard, challenging, life altering year. So I decide for my fall semester of senior year I'd like to do a student exchange program.

What I usually do not include in my paperwork, unless absolutely necessary, is the fact that I am legally blind and have a history of seizures. However, this exchange opportunity was more than just leaving South Carolina for a semester. It was about me separating myself from everything I know, my friends, my twin sister, a small college, and throwing myself into a metropolitan city, a more diverse population and challenging myself. I saw it as preparing myself to be independent after graduation, therefore I included my disabilities in my personal statement and the fact that I saw this as a chance to learn and grow as an individual.

So, a few weeks later my friend and I are called down by our dean after class and we find out that we were all accepted into the program. We began planning what classes we would take, researching what on campus activities and organizations we'd be apart of, and city adventures to get into. I'd found campus activities that piqued my interest, and was nearly done with my schedule when my dean told me I needed to immediately report to her office.

Much to my dismay, my acceptance had been rescinded. However the 'why' had never fully been explained. The excuse that was given to me was that the rejecting university felt as though I "would not be able to learn anything from them". I've heard words like that before.. So in the nicest of words I was rejected because I am disabled, and they did not want to take on that responsibility.

My pride took a blow to say the least. I had already told my family and friends that I was going, and now I would have to tell everyone that I'd be right back here next year. However, this is where diligence, and your rapport with the people that surround you work in your favor. Throughout my matriculation, I withheld a great relationship with the faculty in my department and my dean let me know that I could chose to go anywhere and she would help me get there.

So this door above? It lead to my apartment in Rome, Italy where I spent the Fall 2012 semester of my senior year. I think back on where I had hoped to go, where I planned to go, but where I ended up was much more fruitful. So at times we don't get exactly what we want, when we want it. However, when we do receive a variation of what we need at the right time, it will be better than we could have ever hoped to imagine. I have never looked at a "no" or a rejection the same because I am sure that when I hear a yes I know it will be better than what I'd initially could've hoped for.

So what is a loss? What is a rejection? What is a no? Nothing. It's nothing compared to what is in store for us in the long run. Here are a few photos of my semester abroad where my adventures include London for a day, Florence for two weeks, Pisa for a day, Tuscany for wine tasting and dinner, Venice for a weekend, Naples, Pompeii, and Capri for a day, and where I lived in Rome for 3 months only a short walk from the Vatican. I made lifelong friends across the country I still speak to, and even got a tattoo in Rome. "Piccola Coraggiosa" or "Little Brave One".

& here's a link to my photo album on facebook: & She Headed to Rome. Rome is Her Home
You can also check me out on Instagram: TheTinyQueen & look at my photo map tab for more pictures

I hope this was insightful or helpful to someone in anyway. So if you know anyone going through a tough time, share this. If you have a story, video, photo you'd like me to share for Sunday Inspiration hit me up on twitter TheTinyQueen. Remember Sunday Inspiration isn't just for Sunday's, it's for whenever you need the inspiration. So come back whenever you need. Have a great week!

Keeping A Close Eye |UMG, The Tiny Queen

Eyes Closed, Ears Open: Benjamin Starr(@Benny_Starr) The SOULoist

Benjamin Starr

 Lately I have been on the prowl for talent in South Carolina. Seeing as I spent half of my life there, it's important to me that I find quality talent and endeavors that I know are trying to climb out of the depths of terrible audio, poor marketing, and lack luster visuals that are usually associated with SC artistry. Well I found it: Benjamin Starr, South Carolina native, and might I add dope ass lyricist. I don't give anyone slack when reviewing their music or content, just like I appreciate honest feedback when people tell me about my work. So honestly, Benny's got chops.

Off his newest project The SOULoist, are eight tracks that have well, soul. Including his cover to Wale's 2011 DJ Toomp produced "Legendary" where Benjamin Starr entices the often emotional DMV rapper with the closing bars

I got the Cak’ on my back and no nigga holds me up/ this beat is like SMACK, Wale ain’t do it DOPE enough/ I’m legendary

Along with "Legendary", my favorites off the EP are "Stay" another cover, SOULo, and "Unsung". The SOULoist provides clever lyricism, smooth sampling, those "oooh and ahh" bars that everyone loves, and at the end of the day good ass music. The visuals for "Legendary" are above and the stream for The SOULoist is below for you to enjoy. Let us know what you think!

 

Connect with Benjamin Starr
@Benny_Starr

Keeping A Close Eye|UMG, The Tiny Queen

Urbane Update; FMBK Forever My Brothers Keeper

'Forever My Brothers Keeper'

FMBK Brandon Jimenez

I got a chance to catch up with FMBK team member Brandon Jimenez to talk about what FMBK has been working on and he was proud to give Urbane a sneak peek and let us unveil that FMBK is proud to present their winter 2013 collection this Halloween! 

FMBK Clothing will be adding a few items to the overall collection with 

11 new pieces as of now and 4 items especially for the FMBK ladies, they are available for viewing here.  

They also just participated in the Hair Walk Movement fashion show in Columbia, SC on October 5th. This event was held in honor of breast cancer and included an electrifying fashion show, and hair competition as well as vendors and proceeds were donated to the Palmetto Health Foundation, SCOA Cares Foundation and $50,000 dollars. FMBK can be seen below on the runway. Look out for more from FMBK soon! 

Connect With FMBK Clothing

Official Website

Twitter

Shop
Manta

Keeping A Close Eye, UMG Halle' W

Sunday Inspiration: Word Is, Love Is...Blind

Word is, love is...blind. Eyes, disagree. For with this love I have never seen more clearly into myself, through her.

Good morning! I hope you all had a fruitful week last week and are getting yourselves prepared for another one. It is evidently cuffing season so I decided to make this week's Sunday post on "love and affection".  So this may not pertain to everyone, but for those who are contemplating settling down not just for the winter months, and those who are currently in a relationship, I had you in mind. However, if you like a little dope poetry, have a seat. Stay a while.

Lustful Losses by The Tiny Queen

What kind of relationship do you want? That's one thing that you should know about yourself. One thing that women do, is they attempt to play a game that honestly we aren't good at. We become enamored with a man that knows, he doesn't want a relationship, just relationship benefits. However we believe that that can change. Believe me, no matter how much you bat your eye lashes, cook dinner, answer those texts at booty call hours, it won't change. So what do you want? Above is a poem I wrote a few years ago on how too often relationships are ruined because physically, we know what we want and all too prematurely we allow ourselves to be overcome by sexual desire and what could be a relationship is sacrificed. I'm not saying this is always the case. I've seen people be married and live happily ever after following what was initially a one night stand. However, at some point both individuals came to an understanding. Which doesn't always happen. A woman can't change a man and the lifestyle they want to live, and a man can't change a woman or the lifestyle they chose to live. If a hoe miraculously becomes a housewife, it's because she secretly always wanted to become a housewife, she was just waiting on the right guy to do it. So, you can turn a hoe into a housewife. 

We multiply Ying & Yang to see how many times we can duplicate the Big Bang...in our bedroom. In our conversation. In our silence. In our occupations...

13 of Nazareth's "Word Is" is undoubtedly one of my all time favorite pieces. The poem is based off the biblical scriptures: Ephesians 5:25-28

25. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26. That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27. That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

Again, what kind of relationship do you want. Once you find yourself in a place where you want to be committed to one and only one individual, and them committed to you, you have to know what kind of relationship that is. The boundaries, the expectations, and moral codes. People find themselves in a relationship and in love with people who take advantage and abuse them mentally, physically, spiritually, and verbally. You have to know yourself enough to say, "If this ever happen to me, it's a deal breaker" or "If this ever happened to me he/she is a keeper".  There should be a standard where you love and respect yourself first, because if you  don't care about yourself, that will give others the initiative to mistreat you. Do you deserve to be loved as Christ loved the Church?
Love should not be predictable, it should be passionate, it should not be harmful, although it should test you. Love should inspire you to challenge yourself and explore new perspectives.

Word is, love is...blind. But eyes disagree. For they've never seen so clearly to reap her near me. I'm Christ. She's Church...

So, I hope you enjoyed today's post & it gives you something to think about during these cuffing season months. Know a couple that may enjoy this? Let them know, don't be selfish. If you have a suggestion, story, etc for Sunday Inspiration contact me at urbanemarketinggroup@gmail.com or twitter @TheTinyQueen.
Remember, Sunday inspiration isn't just for Sunday's, so come back whenever you feel the need & check out our previous Sunday posts. Have a great week!

Charleston, SC Show's Why They're Contenders in Fashion With The Big Mix

 You cannot contemplate visiting the South without Charleston, South Carolina being on that list. A rich and historic culture, it's coast, landscape, and diverse population entrances anyone that visits. However, as far as South Carolina goes, it is far down on anyone's list when it comes to fashion, music, or any of the other hidden jewels that might be here. The Big Mix founder, KJ Kearney is looking to change all of that. In 2011 he established the first The Big Mix, to counteract the omnipresent complaining and lack of culture in street wear clothing in the Carolinas. So KJ decided to host the first Southern street wear showcase in the Carolinas. In its first year 16 clothing lines and participants from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida with over 250 paid attendees gathered in Charleston to network and expand their brands.

The Big Mix is returning this year with 18 brands, two of which are female based. Instead of one event it will be a weekend long celebration of quality street wear clothing and creating a premiere location within South Carolina.

Not only is Charleston hosting a major event, but one of its natives is celebrating his 3 year anniversary of his clothing line LuChi Royale, "Justin Wages, Founder/CEO of LuChi Royale invited KJ Kearney of H1GHER LEARNING and his publicist (Tawana Tee), Fly or Die Nation to discuss a pop-up shop event to commemorate his 3 year anniversary. The group met in July at the Barnes & Noble in North Charleston, and began to throw around ideas. Sounding very familiar to both KJ and Tawana, they told the group about the BIG MIX."

Justin will also be releasing the Fall/Winter line of of LuChi Royale with the BLVCK MVNSION Collection. He views this past year as a successful one that he is very proud of. With the improvements of quality and production Justin believes they are now in a position for major growth. 

For The Big Mix, Justin is constantly contemplating on how to make it better, and the process smoother. Just like KJ Kearney, he also wants to see an improvement in the street wear culture in Charleston and the Carolinas and wholeheartedly believes that The Big Mix is that gateway.
LuChi Royale's previous style slogan was "Genesis of Royalty" which at the time represented a new direction for the company. Now it is "Quality is Luxury" and the belief that quality should always be the priority over quantity. "Reserved for Royalty", another new tagline also emphasizes on the expansion from the previous years pertaining to the quality of the product, their new direction of style, and the creative construction behind the brand.

(Preview of fall collection)

LuChi Royale celebrates their 3 year anniversary today October 14th, and are excited to be preparing for The Big Mix. For more information please see press release written by publicist Tawana Tolbert.

Connect with Big Mix & LuChi Royale

@LuChi_Royale

LuChiRoyale.com

@bigmixchs
bigmix.us

Keeping A Close Eye| UMG, The TinyQueen

Save the Boobies:SC State's MAC hosts Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show

The fall semester of my sophomore year of college I began seeing promotional flyers and social media invitations to an "All Pink and Black Affair" at South Carolina State University, which was right next door to my alma mater, Claflin University. The event was during the month of October, and promoted a new and unique way to educate collegiate students on breast cancer awareness. When I saw that it would be a male fashion show, with a women's only audience, I was sold. For it's first event it was highly professional, a elegantly decorated Bulldog Lounge  including a pink carpet, and handsome gentlemen as ushers with pink ties. The fashion show showcased young men of all ages, adolescents, faculty, fraternity members, athletes, and more participated in the fashion show. And throughout all this information and testimonials were given on how to check for breast cancer, and facts versus fiction. We even received a small goodie bag that included a breast cancer ribbon pin, that I still have. 

For the past four years the M.en A.gainst C.ancer organization founded by Brandi Wright, a South Carolina State University alumnus, has been organizing this successful event. Since that first show MAC is now an official organization with members that pay dues and participate in events across the state. Their event includes students from surrounding South Carolina universities and colleges, and is continuously expanding.

This year's event will be Saturday October 19th with special celebrity guest Brad James. He will make four appearances in Orangeburg the day of the show at Belk, Wal-Mart, Brown Derby and a Hair Salon. Ladies who purchase VIP tickets will be able to meet and take pictures with him, attend the cocktail hour and reception, and receive a gift bag with t-shirt.

Guest performances include South Carolina artists CampLyfe, Carolina Ace, GLSHAE, Stack Boys, DTC Male Ensemble, and Vondella with DJ Frosty is the celebrity DJ.

Vendor Village will start at 12pm - Vendors from various areas will be selling merchandise from 12pm until 12am the day of the show also in MLK Auditorium. Interested vendors and contact us.

Ticket Information:

VIP $25

General Admission $15

Student/ID $10

This is a positive and charitable event that I thoroughly enjoyed. I encourage young ladies in the surrounding areas to go and learn about how to stay healthy and be aware, but more importantly enjoy the fashion show. My priorities might not be in order, but I enjoyed the fashion show THAT much, learning something was the icing on top. SC State was recently named in Bossp.com as one of the top ten HBCU homecomings to go to. So not only do they know how to celebrate and party, SC State is an intricate part of the midlands community and serves it well.

Connect with Brandi Wright & MAC

@OMG_MsWright

@SCSUMAC

Keeping A Close Eye| UMG, The Tiny Queen

Sunday Inspiration: Kaitlyn Dobrow

We often complain about the most minuscule irrelevancies, overlooking how blessed and privileged we truly are. #FirstWorldProbs.  Humanity has been so desensitized that we disregard how favored we are to have the most basic necessities. Small puddles and ditches become obstacles and storms because you and I have become either lazy or careless in how we carry ourselves, carry our priorities, and carry the expectations that our inner circles have placed on us.
I'm not sure if you have heard of this story or not, but it epitomizes life unscrewing the training wheels off your bike before you're ready without telling you, & pushing off for the ride of your life regardless. 

Kaitlyn Dobrow was an 18 year old aspiring MMA fighter who was vibrant, respectful, and a hard worker. After leaving work at a hotel one night in February she then went to the gym.  However the next morning, she awoke to searing red marks that covered her body and excruciating pain that kept her from even leaving her bed. By the end of that day Kaitlyn was diagnosed with meningococcal disease, a severe form of Bacterial Meningitis. According to WebMD, this disease is defined as "A rare but serious infection. It causes the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed...Bacteria and viruses are the two main causes of meningitis. The bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also called meningococcus, causes meningococcal meningitis. In children and teens, meningococcus is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis."

Kaitlyn and John Stamos

Between February and July 2013 Kaitlyn undertook 22 surgeries to repair the 50% damaged skin by skin grafts, and four amputations to both arms and legs. This summer she spent her 19th birthday in the ICU of UCI Medical Center, Irvine in CA and went to rehab at Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center in August.

Kaitlyn has not once made her family or those around her feel the slightest bit of pity or say "you poor girl". Since her rehabilitation she has learned how to feed herself apply her own makeup, as well as on her friends, and lives her life fruitfully and without sorrow. Without harboring bitterness. Without wallowing in her undeserving misfortune. Kaitlyn has consistently surpassed every obstacle this situation has led her to.

I received a heartfelt email from Barbi Winters, a family friend of Kaitlyn Dobrow and throughout her email she implored upon me how Kaitlyn, despite her surgeries and rehabilitation, she was outgoing, determined, and above all else...positive. Kaitlyn exudes a joyous spirit who still possesses vigor, and a lust for life.
So, look at yourself. I am by far not an innocent when it comes to griping about insignificant trip ups in life. What are you going through right now? What have you bitched about today, where instead you could have found a resolution, a silver lining, a smile. Throughout everything this young lady has been through this tumultuous year, her smile has remained vibrant, her laughter has not faded away, her unwavering loyalty to the happiness she is owed has not faltered.

No matter how many times you are stabbed in the back, how many people you have to cut out of your life, how many times you have been told no or rejected, the losses you have faced...the quality in which you live your life is your responsibility and yours alone. If you or I, were not able to live without, there would not be virtually homeless individuals giving away their life's possessions and quizzically tranquil and full of peace. There would not be brave and valiant souls like Kaitlyn who has been dealt the cards she has been given and can still look at others, her family, and herself with confidence, passion, strength. So what is our excuse?

If you would like to know read the full story on Kaitlyn as told by her devoted mother Kathi Dobrow visit Care for Kaitlyn Dobrow. To keep up with Kaityn's progress or donate visit Kaitlyn Dobrow Updates. You can also read about the fundraiser held to assist in Kaitlyn's growing medical and living expenses with one attendee John Stamos playing the guitar HERE.
If you feel like I've lectured you or bitched you out & you're saying "She can tell me about my life," so what if I did? But if you're still feeling sorry for yourself for whatever reason, bookmark this. If it even lifts you up, then you go ahead and bookmark it too. 

It is important to find and grasp on for dear life the one or any reasons we can find to smile. Because we all live lives that are worth living, where at least one person goes to sleep at night wishing you peace and joy. Kaitlyn you are a beautiful soul and I wish you well in all things. You too people!
I hope everyone has a great week. If you're having a bad day, you remember how I said to bookmark this? Sunday Inspiration isn't just for Sunday's, it's for whenever you need it. *wink*

Keeping A Close Eye| UMG Staff

P.S.

If you have a story or video you'd like to share for Sunday Inspiration contact me(Trice, hey!) via urbanemarketinggroup@gmail.com or Twitter @TheTinyQueen. Now seriously, go forth & prosper!