It has been an emotional couple of days as I have been reporting on the passing of Michael Jackson. Today began down at Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood where Michael's Star on the Walk of Fame is located. There were hundreds of peaceful and broken-hearted mourners lining the streets paying tribute to the musical icon. There were tears and celebration from fans who still couldn't believe he was gone. Then, we traveled downtown to the LA County Coroner's Office where the autopsy on Michael's body was being performed. Dozens of media outlets from all over the world awaited news of exactly how and why he died. Here are images from the day. Shaun

I can only imagine that my feelings today are similar to those of my parents when John F. Kennedy was assassinated or the moment they found out Elvis had suddenly died. Shock, then refusing to believe the news thinking that it must be some mistake. The reports must be wrong. As the hours wore on, my denial slowly, reluctantly turned to a profound sadness and emptiness like a long-time friend had just up and left but never said good-bye. As the many images of Michael Jackson’s life began to flash across my television screen, I can’t help but be taken on a trip down my own memory lane. This international icon was so much a part of my own history.  I am remembering myself as a young girl with the glossy color posters of a young Michael Jackson that were stapled in the center of “Right On!” Magazine. They lined the walls of my little lavender painted bedroom.  I’d eagerly but, carefully tear out the folded photo, get scotch tape and attach the poster to my bedroom wall. I had Michael posters and Jackson 5 posters but, of all the guys – Marlon, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Randy (Jackson 5 plus one!) Michael was certainly my favorite as he was for all my girlfriends.
I had all the 45’s, playing “ABC” ‘till the cows came home, the albums (when I had a few extra bucks to afford them) and I sat glued to the TV watching the family’s television variety shows and the Jackson 5 cartoon. I followed Michael throughout his solo career and had one encounter with him when he visited the Motown Museum in my hometown of Detroit. I was looking forward to his comeback and it has yet to sink in that the comeback will never be. I want it all to be a dream but, I am slowly accepting that God has called the King of Pop, back home.
Rest in Peace, Michael.

Thank you to everyone who came out to my book signing at Border's in the Capital Centre. I had a great time meeting all of you and was so inspired by your messages of support. I'm glad you are enjoying "Exactly As I Am" as much as I am and I really love that you are gifting this book to the many girls (and women!) in your life. So many Big Girls are telling me that this is the book they wish they'd had when they were a girl. Thanks again and remember to tell your friends about "Exactly As I Am"!
Blessings,
Shaun