New Tattoo

This is my new tattoo. The bird is symbolic of several things. It is a representation of freedom. Freedom from living stagnant. It's time to soar and release myself from being lazy and content. Easily I can sit back and say that I wrote 2 books of poetry and feel a sense of accomplishment. I feel like I still haven't scratched the surface of the iceberg. It's time for me to take flight so I can look back at all I've done...just like my tattoo.


The flight of this bird also is my depiction of the heavenly journey my 3 grandmothers took in 2001. The bird is looking back to show how they are still looking back at me and watching over everything they had to leave behind.

I appreciate this gift that Miya gave me. At 1st I wanted a typical and basic bird, but I realized that my journey has been and will be far from typical and basic . I ended up agreeing with Miya's idea and we matched my bird to the abstract bird image that he has tattoo'd on his neck. I do believe the matching my tattoo to his adds to the bond that I have with my brother.

Tonight I'm going to toast to a great tattoo from my brother, the memories and guidance or my beloved grandmothers, and my journey.

Breath-Taking

I can't remember the last time I've heard a song so beautiful. It has definite;y inspired me to write a poem that mirrors the emotions I felt when listened to this. Please take a second to appreciate "For All We Know" by Donny Hathaway

Father's Day 2010 was a success. Special thanks to Kim for make it all happen and calling my family for a nice dinner. She even gave me some art supplies so I can begin this journey of dream-chasing and creating something new. Even though it was a day for fathers it seemed like the newest edition to the family got all the attention (5month old Jacolby Streeter). He's a little bundle of smiles and slobber. I really enjoyed celebrating with my little brother Colby on his 1st Father's Day. I missed my big brother Miya being there, but we'll be able to hang out soon enough. thanks for the ton of text messages I woke up to. My sons are funny though. My 14yr old didn't come in until 5pm from playing outside to acknowledge me. My 15yr old needed to be reminded to acknowledge me. My 17yr old sent a text rather than a call. I hope this is just a dumb teen thing. I tried not to take it personal. Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed my day and my family. Thanks Kim, Mom, and Nikki for making it happen. Love you all.

Mini Me

I just wanted to take a moment and acknowledge my 14yr son. He did exceptional 8th grade year. He took honor classes, had an A-B average, played basketball and baseball, and prides hisself on bing a "ladies man". (He has 'McLovin' written on his wall in his room. In the picture above I was taking him to the 8th grade end of year dance. I watched him get ready, spied on him while he practiced his danc moves and facial expressions. He reminds me of myself in so many ways. I think he's more cocky than I was whn I was in the 8th grade. So with all that, I want to give a big shout out to my youngest son Tyrell Bailey for all of his successes and accomplishments.

Computers 4 kids turned out to be a great success. I was able to purchase 4 mini laptops for Asheville's youth. There were over 30 kids that sent essays to my PO Box that addressed issued in their community and how they would like to make helo make things better. Although all essays were amazing, 4 of them stood out and stuck with me. Congratulations to Stephen, Brandon, Dominuque, and Monique for touching me with their wonderful essays. You have truly inspired and motivated me. I am looking to begin another movement that focuses on "Stopping the Violence" amongst our youth. Last but not least I would like to thank everyone for their support. Thank you to all those that came to my parties, donated money to for the computers, and the members of Tried Stone Missionary Baptist Church. I love you all

Decided to chase a new dream this week. Actually, I am revisiting an old dream. I started illustrating a coloring book a couple of years ago. This book will have various multi-cultural illustrations. The pictures post are already colored to kinda give everyone an visual on what to expect. I am open to ideas and suggestions and comments. Please feel free to voice you opinion. I hope the book can be finished within the next 3months.

I am hosting another event to raise money to purchase computers & laptops for Asheville children. My previous event was successful and I was able to purchase 2 Mini Laptops to be awarded to the essay contest winners (see previous blog). These winners will be announced on the weekend of April 24th

I hope you all can come out and support my Party with a Purpose event and help make a difference in a kids life.

***If you can't make if out, you have the option to make a donation here on http://damionbailey.com. Just click the donate button.***

Event: Polo's & Pumps - Party with a Purpose - April 24th - Paparrazzi Bar & Grill - 8 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC