Well folks, I've had one hell of a year! An awesome year to be exact. I can't wait for 2010 to come. Yesterday I was asked, if 2009 was so great, why can't you wait until 2010? I answered, it only gets better from here. God is good and so is my life. I have a lot to accomplish and I am just getting started. You all have witnessed my growth throughout the year. I hope you continue rocking with me in 2010 and beyond. This will be my last post of the year. I am off to New York, Brooklyn a place in which I hold dear to my heart, then I am off to DC for New Years Eve. You will hear from me in the future. Until then be safe and a Happy New Year.

Mattoo Manner,

If you feel the urge on January 1st to want to wish me a Happy New Year, well feel free! My email address is MannerRock@Gmail.com

Later

Everyone disappears no matter who loves them, I know this, because I disappear more often than others, for my own sanity regardless of who’s loving. I love you too, but it just needs to happen, sometimes.
- Javale

Fantasy Tuesday

Oh, please believe she is "badass" tough in every movie she play's in including the most recent, Avatar!

I am a sucker for a woman with a tough demeanor. Yes, a challenge, a new wall to break down in this action flick. I know she's softy on the inside. Michelle Rodriguez is the "badass" I conquer in this fantasy. Why not finish '09 with a challenge. I'm a softy by nature but most wouldn't know that, you will never get to see that side of me, Michelle will! As soon as I sweep her off the Red Carpet as if I were her bodyguard! I'm the young black Kevin Costner. Michelle & I have a rendezvous that will last until the ball drops! No missing persons reports, she's flying with a champ in my Fantasy Tuesday!



Mattoo Manner!

The brand 10 Deep is a brand that I have grown to admire. 10 Deep is an independent apparel company. It is one of the original New York streetwear brands. The quality of goods goes beyond any average brand and detail in each garment is simple, yet intricate. A brand for the complex individual. More importantly what I admire about the brand is what it stands for. Their motto is "forget everyone and listen to yourself. Strength lies in the hands of an individual (10 fingers), not in the approval of one’s peers.



I currently own 3 articles of clothing from 10 Deep and I am sure the collection will grow as time goes on. 10 Deep is more accessible to me in Boston because the brand can be found at a few different locations (Karmaloop, Bodega, & Expressions) to name a few! Check out their website @ www.10Deep.com

I Liked Her Boots,

But I loved the way she carried them! Often times it doesn't matter how old or how new an item is, it's up to the individual to make it work!

"There is only one meaning of life, the act of living itself" - Erich Fromm

Wednesday evening I will be in NYC, NYE I will be in DC. I love to be on the road.

Traveling is something I enjoy. The pleasure of waking up in a different city, learning new things like street names, to trying out different breakfast diners is all apart of my life's joy. I am Living!

Positive Words & Music Made Tangible

Dear Friend,

You have made the gift of music and positive words tangible. For that I thank you. I really wanted a cool wallet, but words and tunes hold more weight than the money and cards that a wallet can. :) Thanks again,

Sincerely

Maxime, Max, Mattoo

(CD: Zion*I - The Takeover)
(Book: The Book of Positive Qoutations 2nd Edition)

Question 4 You:

Fast Life or Slow Death?

Nike Air Max 1 "Skulls Pack"

These are a pair of my favorite Air Max's. I bought these at a sneaker spot called Kangaroo's out in Worcester MA. This was back in '07. I bought these the week that I graduated from Clark University. It's a shame that my sneakers have a storyline. The reason that I am telling you this story is that, unfortunately since I've bought these sneakers in a size 10 my foot grew a whole shoe size. Which means I am not taking one of my favorite pair kicks aren't coming to 2010 with me as well as a few others. Oh well, I'm getting rid of extra!
Wearing my Nike Air Max 1 "Skulls Pack"

It Sucks, But...........

Breaking hearts as well as being heartbroken is an inevitable part of life. I have learned that in 2009.

iseenAVATARyesterday!

I honestly didn't know what this movie was about prior to seeing it. Word on the street was that it was a really good 3D movie from the Director of the Titanic. Wow, after seeing this movie, James Cameron is a solidified genius!

I will not lie to you. The movie is a long one, but it will keep you engaged. The story line as well as the 3D graphics is out of this world. Like "Pandora" out of this world. I really do not want to give this movie away for those of you who have not seen it, but here is a powerful qoute I took from the movie.

This is from the character Jakesully: "I was a warrior who dreamed he could bring peace, but at the end of the day we all have to wake up."


Mattoo Manner

Skies the Limit!

"Only make moves when your hearts in it"
- Christopher Wallace (Notorious BIG)

Great Year: Looking Back 2 Look Forward

In 2010, I will see some people more & I will see some people less, facts of life.

I had a great year indeed, but also had a few aggrevations. Aggrevations that has brought me to realize that I just don't care! I am who I am and you are who you are and I am not a fan of extra. That being said in 2010, I am getting rid of the extra.

My 1st Patriots Game!

2009 could not have been anymore complete. Last weekend of the year, Saturday night I get a text from a good friend of mine. This is what he wrote: "you trying to go to tomorrow's Pats game?" No brainer of course! I jumped at the opportunity even if rain was in the forecast. The weather turned out to be nice & the Pats came out victorious against the Jaguars.

Well I'm heading to bed now, more photos to come.

My iTunes Top Played Song Has a Video!

Jay-Z featuring Mr. Hudson

This may have been my favorite song this past year and I heard it for the 1st time in September when Jay-z's Blueprint 3 was released. This was the one song on the album I knew I needed a visual for and my man Jay did not let me down. Mr. Hudson is the man. Can't wait to hear more from him in 2010.

I remember walking up Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan, my neighborhood, this song came on & it was just a soundtrack for reflection. I seen poverty, struggle, youth, honesty, signs of everyday life, & hint of hope all in one stride. This song & video in unison embodies that particular vision. Take a look & if you already have, don't be shy & play it again because I know I did.

Salutations!

Happy Holidays! Oh yea, the scarf is from my pen pal in Arizona (The Real Noriega) got it last winter. Wearing it reminds me of you,Watup Shorty!


My friend Javale's weekend bag. I thought it was dope.


I thought these were Christmas appropriate!

I think I may have lost my Canon Powershot Point & Shoot Camera :( still looking for it. Last time I saw it was Wednesday morning!

Dear Readers,

I, Mattoo Manner, would like to thank you all for rocking with me on a consistent basis. I would like to thank you for reading my words because you really do not have to. Sometimes I'd like to read your comments so don't be afraid to comment or shoot me an email at MannerRock@Gmail.com

I, Mattoo Manner, would also like to wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays. Be around those you love and mean the most to you.

The best gift I recieved so far was a card from my friend Anuli. The card warmed me up inside. Those words mean alot! I love you homie!

Once Again, Happy Holidays to you and yours

Needs I Want!

I want to be a part of your morning ritual.

...........................I Just Wanna BE............................

I want to be the one who inspires you

............................I Just Wanna BE............................

I want to be the first to make you smile before 9 o’clock

I want to be the blogger whose page you check out first in the morning

I want to be your reminder that today is going to be a better day

I want to be able to say, that I’ve helped you ...................



Mattoo Manner

Beyond A Reasonable Doubt

My Favorite Sneaker: In my possession as of yesterday

"Got My Space Jams"

To some this was a Christmas gift to self. To me this was a mission accomplished, a pair of sneakers I needed to have in my collection no matter when they were released. They just so happened to be released the day before Christmas Eve. It feels like I went though Hell & Back for this release. I was in anticipation of this release since I was aware of them being rereleased. They were originally released in 2000 which would have made me a freshman/sophomore in high school. Couldnt afford them then, not that I didnt really want them. This time around I have the means.

The Journey: I went from being guaranteed a pair to guaranteed uncertainty, to not being able to sleep, waking up at 3am to making it to the mall before 5am when the stores open at 7am, to convincing the security guards that we worked in the mall to get in from being in freezing conditions. "We" being others who were in anticipation of the shoe as well. It was an experience to remember. I was up early in the cold like I did construction cracking jokes with kids and fellow sneaker heads both older and younger. I was 4th in line. Grabbed my pair, said congrats to everyone who got their pairs before me and I was off to work. Business as usual. Happy Holidays!

Alicia Keys - The Element of Freedom - This album is beautiful. When I listen to this album I want to smile, tear, jump, scream, & sing along. Her voice slows down the uptempo beat. Her marvelous sound and captivating lyrics provide a sense of completion with room to insert your own reality. Song titles like "Wait Til You See My Smile" will put you in a trance. I can't wait for my trip to New York and DC next week to just sit on the bus and just listen.

Current Exhibit @ Gallery Kayafas

I found these pieces to be very intriguing. The first image happens to be my favorite. It is brilliantly titled "Light Up". I wonder who influence these kids? These are vintage real life images that illustrate different ways of life. Thought I would share with you guys. Hope you enjoy these images as I have.

Pre-Party Photo (My Sister's Sweet 16)

My sister & Our Cousins.

Kanye-West-Bathing-Ape-Spring-2010-lookbook

I've been doing a lot of black & grey lately so this fit Kanye has on for the A Bathing Ape lookbook jumped out at me.

Click on the title and it will take you to the rest of the lookbook!

I <3 Her 2 Death

My baby sister turned 16 over the weekend. She's growing up, which means
a closer watch on her. She says I am suffering from what she calls the
Big Brother Syndrome. Sha danced w/ a boy at her party and I didnt break
it up lol. I'm not that bad! Love you fatty!

Loyalty, Discipline, Principles, & Morals

These days, these things are hard to come by. My word is my bond. I will forever be disciplined in my ways. I won't short change you, I won't look you in the eye and tell you a bold face lie. If I know that I can't do something, I will tell you I can't do it. Real as I can be. People like to say things that sound good to boost their ego's, make empty promises and place themselves on a false pedestal. One day that false pedestal will have you crashing down.

Mattoo Manner

My America Series (Photography)

Photography by Mattoo Manner

Lady Gaga x Kanye West by Photographer David LaChapelle

This could be a lost seen from Kanye's "Amazing" video. Interesting!

What is This? (Brought 2 You by AyyCool & Mattoo Manner)

AyyCool & Mattoo Manner ----> 2gether we are "Strange Science"

John John!

This my little brother Johnathan kickin it in my room. He was really feeling my hat. I thought about handing it to him but may next year, he already has his Christmas gifts from me!

Pardon Me Stylin' a Bit (New Editions 2 The Manner Collection)

I wanted a denim jacket so I went ahead and bought one.

Peep the inside lining, I do realize it is winter, but with the inside cushion and a hooded sweatshirt, I will be just fine.

White & Red Jordan Retro 12's. I like the original Chicago Bulls "Home" colors.

Peanuts - New Era Japan Cap Collection

I'd like to have maybe two of these caps in the Manner Collection.

Yesterday was my little sister Gabby's Sweet 16, and she had a basement bashment. It went well, she had fun and I was the photographer for the youngsters event. My favorite pics will soon come.

Mattoo Manner.

We Live Real Lives. We make Mistakes, We correct them, We learn from them, We survive. We produce greatness through trial & error - Maxime Hilaire

Interesting!

My Mom Turned 50!

Happy Birthday Mom, from your 1st born "sun"! I shine because you shine!

The Spirit of Boston

I took this photo Summer 09'

Today: Holiday Party on the Spirit of Boston -> I'm upset, no matter how nice this boat is,I know it's a great gesture & it's a company tradition, but a party on a boat? It's 10 degrees out. I by no means want to be near a wharf right now! Thank you, the company that I work for, for providing such a great venue for a holiday party. You're awesome!

Mos Def

Photo taken by my favorite photog Mel D. Cole (villageslum.com)

Mos Def one of my favorite artists (period). Very pleased that I was able to see him live in concert in 2009!

Ecstatic - Top 5 of the albums to come out this year. He has a Grammy nomination for this album as well. Congrats!

I'm a big fan of Pharrell. He's a creative genius.
He handle's his business, but is a kid @ heart.
His style is simple, but he is definitely a fashion icon.
His music is fun, funky, but you can feature him on a gritty song with the Clipse.
He also is a great designer, the furniture this man creates is out of this world.
Certainly an artist I admire.

Puma Store on Newbury has the spirit!

Photography by Topher Cox

Photo's from Topher Cox's Studio @ 1st Fridays December

I may have misled you. But hey, you followed!

-Mattoo Manner

I Love My City

Classic Scene. Captured after the Black Star Concert @ HOB's

Space Jams Next Week

Release date keeps moving back & forth. It was the 23rd, then it was the 24th, now it's the 23rd again. Team Jordan needs to quit playing games.

Get Your Electronics!

Took this from the Mighty Healthy site. Thought it was interesting, it's soooo NYC!

I imagine it, but I haven't experienced it or maybe it's just my inexperience! - Mattoo Manner

Photography by Ikenna

My 13 year old cousin Ikenna from Maryland, became a photographer over the weekend. I taught her how to use my camera & she ran with it. I wasn't afraid of her breaking it or anything. She captured this image above w/ me & her younger sister on Sunday morning.

More Pics From Raphael Saadiq's Concert @ HOB's

Stellar Perfomance, out of this world!