here we go again. labels. stud, tomboi, androgyn, butch, domme, aggressive… u know the list. “why do we need labels?” the question echoes in every conversation about the subject. well, i think we need them so folks could know what the hell we’re talking about.

“what kinda wall calendar is it, jennifer?”

“ugh… umm… a uh… calendar of womyn who don’t wear skirts too often…”

does that work? is that better? is that less harsh?

i get it. no on wants 2 b pigeon holed. hell, my gyrl doesn’t even go by the term stud and the calendar is dedicated to her! doesn’t really matter. or does it?

there was even a slightly heated conversation regarding the androgynous model Milon at her runway show (TOTR) here in Chicago. Someone felt that she wasn’t androgynous and shouldn’t have even used to the word 2 describe herself. really? really, really? so now we have people who reject labels and tell other folks what labels they should carry.

when Hard Candy Calendar started, there wasn’t a dominant female model in sight. it just wasn’t accepted imagery. now six years later (yes, i know the math: 6 yrs but only 3 calendars. i’ll explain later), there are androgyn models everywhere. i’ve received emails/letters from gyrls/womyn who are inspired an encouraged because they see faces like theirs in print. labels b damned. they know who they are and they see that the calendar is about them. Hard Candy Calendar’s motto has always been “Bringing the Dominant Womanhe Forefront”. Now in 2010 they’re being seen adn presented in full glory but we still don’t know what 2 call them?! really?

Do labels help or hinder? Take the poll on the Hard Candy Calendar website

The mission of the gala was to raise money for the building fund for Jackie’s Place, a temporary women’s housing shelter for victims of unemployment, sexual assault and domestic violence.

A silent auction took place to further help the cause with incredible items donated by local artists around the theme of shoes and ties.

The highlight of the gala for me was live entertainment which was provided by Grammy nominated rapper/actress Yo-Yo. She gave a spirited performance that had the keep the crowd moving. She took the time out to show her support for the LGBT community and womyn particularly. Taking special note that she is an “advocate for everyone”. After the performance she stayed for pictures and to enjoy herself on the dance floor.

I could probably go on and on and on about that nite, but I think it would be best to just show the pics….check em out on facebook/Hard Candy Calendar or myspace

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDQdFIrrM7Q
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlGyzfUWKg0

Meanwhile, in another part of our country:
JACKSON, Miss. – A northern Mississippi school district will not be hosting a high school prom this spring after a lesbian student sought to attend with her girlfriend and wear a tuxedo.

so bascially, they’ll ruin it for everyone just cuz they don’t like what one gyrl is doing. seriously? the hate runs that deep. they don’t stop marriage cuz some(most) couples get divorced. but they’ll shut down a prom cuz they don’t want one gay couple 2 b there. un-freakin-believeable!

There are free valentine’s day e-cards on the Stuff page of the site.

As a special treat we have some additional photos from this years shoots on the slide show on the home page. During the sessions, I would experience little glitches with my settings and get these wonderful “red” pics. I thought now would be the best time 2 share them with you all. Seeing as how red is the colour of Valentine’s Day and all. Please check them out and let me know what you think.

In addition to that, I have designed a few items for Kinetic Cards & Gifts for the holiday. There’s still time to order and get them for the weekend.

I Love You bear. Decorative words with interlocking venus symbols give a message in a message.

Titled “Our Love” this exclusive artwork using my signature style is displayed on pillows, greeting cards and tile coasters.

There is indeed someone for everyone. This all inclusive greeting cards shows a message of hope no matter what your romantic preference.

There’s more Valentine’s greeting cards & gifts at the Kinetic Cards & Gifts online shop.

i didn’t worry about the shoot. i’ve been working with her since the Calendar’s inception. when Hard Candy reinvented itself, so did she. new name but the attitude remained the same. professional, perfectionish, Milon guarantees a good shoot. dressed in her Halloween costume as Jay Z with Laurice as Beyonce by her side, she effortlessly went thru the shoot as if she were unconcerned about the fashion show she was in soon after. not surprisingly, i got great shots. so here we are again. you make the call. go 2 the home page and pic the shot that’ll get into the 2010 Hard Candy Stud Calendar

always professional she brings creativity to every shoot. with energy and enthusiasm that’s contagious i am never disappinted with the results. i’m always left with so many frames full of charm and charisma that i don’t know which 2 choose. so i’m gonna leave this one up to the peoplle. i’ve posted some raw shots from the photoshoot on the gallery page along with a poll. let me know which one’s the best….

Hard Candy Calendar 2010 Taurus

still high off of the last shoot i was ready 4 the next which was 2 take place the next day and i got more of the same. schedule conflicts and whatnot. i’m starting to think there’s a conspiracy going on. so whassup? or maybe i’m being impatient.

then i was supposed 2 have a shoot 2day. and i blew one of my lights! arrrggggghhhh! conspiracy i tell ya! i’m pushing on. will continue 2 push forward and make this happen. next shoot….Monday. wish me luck.