Everyone that knows me knows that I am a Christmas-aholic!
There is no greater thrill for me that to find the perfect Chocolate Santa or Christmas ornament. Not just during the holiday season, oh no, for me the hunt begins the day after Christmas and continues throughout the year. So last year after Christmas, when I announced that I would be skipping Christmas this year, my family and friends gave a sly chuckle and said "um-hum, sure you will."
Well, here we are deep into December, and I have stuck to my guns. Instead of hosting my family for Christmas this year, I opted for Thanksgiving. While this holiday still involves the great cooking of the mighty feast, it doesn’t include the decorating and the mad rush for buying gifts.
There have been three major perks to my decision to "Skip Christmas" this year;
NO Decorating, NO Shopping, and No Cooking!
No Decorating…
There is no Christmas tree in my house. There… I said it.
I feel like this is a part of some twelve-step program. Not a tree, not a wreath, no lights, not a Santa. (OK, I am lying there are a few Santas, but they all are 2007 Santas.) None of the Santas that reside in the attic or closets were allowed to come out, lol!
No Shopping…
I purchased a lot of things during the after Christmas sale last year. Also, throughout the year if I say something fabulous that I wanted to put up for the holiday I got it. However, after Halloween, I made it a point to purchase all of my gifts online, especially for those gifts that needed to be shipped. No shopping malls… No Post Office, wow, I could learn to live with this.
No Cooking…
As I mentioned my mom visited me during Thanksgiving so I had the opportunity to share the kitchen with her, and eat some of her delightfully delicious dressing. I have had a LOT of dressing in my life, but no one comes close to my moms. I have some in my freezer so when everyone else is eating their holiday leftovers, I will break out mine from Thanksgiving.
Since my son "the big time New York Media Mogul" has to work both Christmas and New Year’s it wasn’t too hard for me to opt to go on a cruise. I can handle being queen for a day (well, in this case 5 days) and having people wait on me hand and foot!
While cruising (and thinking of you, of course) I will be reading some good books; listening to some great holiday music classics; and dancing the night away with my handsome hubby.
I am so thankful that I was blessed to live another year and have wonderful family and friends in my life, and I look forward to the blessings that await me in 2008. I wish each of you good health, a safe and happy holiday season, and a prosperous New Year!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Friday, November 02, 2007
No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted. - Aesop
The holiday season is fast approaching and our family is "Skipping Christmas" this year! Not the spirit or the meaning of Christmas, but the all of the hustle and bustle associated with the season.
We welcome a card from you, but respectfully request that in lieu of buying us a gift please do a random act of kindness for someone. This won’t cost you a dime, and I guarantee it will make you feel good. Here are a few ides....
We welcome a card from you, but respectfully request that in lieu of buying us a gift please do a random act of kindness for someone. This won’t cost you a dime, and I guarantee it will make you feel good. Here are a few ides....
- Say Hello
- Visit a friend
- Let another go first
- Forgive mistakes
- Share a smile
- Open a door
- Lend a hand
- Be tolerant
- Offer a hug
- Do an act of kindness everyday
Monday, July 23, 2007
Divas For A Cure
Greetings!
I am very happy to support Divas For a Cure for the second year in a row. I am also excited about being their personal "Blogger" for the event. I hope that you decide to donate to this wonderful charity.
To find out where the divas are each day go to the official Blog at: http://www.divasforacure.blogspot.com/
To find out more about the organization to to: http://www.divasforacure.org
Monday, June 18, 2007
HELP FOR THE HOMELESS
The Harry Tompson Center is a day shelter for homeless guests to shower, do laundry, seek medical and legal services, etc. Because of Katrina, a new facility is being built on the grounds of St. Joseph church on Tulane. And they need funds!!
Don Thompson, who is director of the Center is asking us to participate in Burger King’s “Campaign for Your Cause”. The center is already in the top ten vote getters! Starting today and running through July 13 the center needs us to vote for them. We can vote once a day, every day, and on every computer we have access to, at home and at work.
This is how to vote:
- go online to www.campaignforyourcause.com
- click on line that reads “click here to vote for New Orleans”
- enter your birthday on the line (mm/dd/yyyy) and then click the circle next to the line that reads “Father Harry Tompson Center”.
- Finally click “vote”.
That's it!
Don Thompson, who is director of the Center is asking us to participate in Burger King’s “Campaign for Your Cause”. The center is already in the top ten vote getters! Starting today and running through July 13 the center needs us to vote for them. We can vote once a day, every day, and on every computer we have access to, at home and at work.
This is how to vote:
- go online to www.campaignforyourcause.com
- click on line that reads “click here to vote for New Orleans”
- enter your birthday on the line (mm/dd/yyyy) and then click the circle next to the line that reads “Father Harry Tompson Center”.
- Finally click “vote”.
That's it!
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Rebuilding New Orleans
Life's most urgent question is: What are you doing for others? - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
This past week I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Second Harvest of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana Food Bank. I along with 9 of my girl friends met in New Orleans and together we packed over 2,000 pounds of food for their emergency food box program (http://www.no-hunger.org/programs/emgencyfoodbox.htm). We were told that this would feed over 200 families.
This past week I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Second Harvest of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana Food Bank. I along with 9 of my girl friends met in New Orleans and together we packed over 2,000 pounds of food for their emergency food box program (http://www.no-hunger.org/programs/emgencyfoodbox.htm). We were told that this would feed over 200 families.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Out of Pocket!
As you can see, I have been incognito for a few months! Nothing new and exciting has been going on, I have just been busy. Thanks to everyone who called to check on Ruff and I during the NASA incident. We really appreciate your thoughtfulness and well wishes. Last week was a bad one. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who was affected directly or indirectly by the unfortunate incidents at Virginia Tech or at the Johnson Space Center.
On a happier note….
There is a new "Pirates of the Caribbean" Movie coming out on May 25th. I am looking forward to seeing cutie pies Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom in "At World’s End."
Here is a little sneak peak:
On a happier note….
There is a new "Pirates of the Caribbean" Movie coming out on May 25th. I am looking forward to seeing cutie pies Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom in "At World’s End."
Here is a little sneak peak:
Friday, December 08, 2006
Holiday Edition of Getting to Know your Friends... ho ho ho
What are your holiday traditions? Here are mine, let us know yours!
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Egg Nog2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Sits them under the tree, except for one special gift. That one is wrapped in red with a white bow.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No
5. When do you put decorations up? I start the week after Thanksgiving. But it is a process still in work :-)
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding desserts)? Candied Sweet Potatoes and Fried Turkey!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Getting a sewing machine for Christmas when I was 13.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What do you mean the truth about Santa?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? umm... you mean trees :-)
- Living Room Tree - The "Fu Fu tree, All Gold and Silver
- Family Room Tree - Chocolate Santas and Keepsake Ornaments
- Dining Room - The Shoe Tree (It is a white feather tree with shoe ornaments
- Office - The Star Trek Tree (Aluminum tree with Star Trek ornaments)
- Kam's Room - The Wizard of Oz Themed Tree
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love to look at it, hate to drive or live in it.
12. Can you ice skate? Nope
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? My son Kam who was born in December.
14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Remembering the reason for the season and gathering with family and friends.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Cookies and my late Aunt Met's pound cake.
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Cooking with my mom on Christmas eve.
17. What tops your tree? Angels
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? Giving.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? "Oh Holy Night" and "This Christmas by Donnie Hathaway"
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? I can take them or leave them.
21. What is on your wish list for Christmas? To have all of my family and close friends together once again for a happy occasion.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
A Fun Time on a Not-So-Fun Ship
We recently returned from our annual October Cruise. This year we decided to do something different, so we booked our cruise on the NCL Dream (Norwegian Cruise Line). For the prior 6 years, we had gone on Carnival Cruise Line, the Fun Ship! In retrospect, I wish we had continued this tradition, because NCL was Not-So-Fun.
First, I must tell you, that we had a great time. This was due to the fact that we had an awesome group of people traveling with us, and we managed to make our own fun.
Here is a synopsis of our trip:
Saturday, October 14, 2006 - Embarkation, La Porte, TX
Five of us arrived at the cruise terminal in La Porte, TX about 11:00 AM. We were dropped off right in front, and Ruffus went to park our vehicle at the parking lot that was adjacent to the terminal (very close.) The embarkation was the fasted that I ever experienced (and this was my 14th cruise.) So, at this point we were very impressed. By 11:30 AM we were onboard and hurdled into the "Stardust Lounge" to wait for our cabins to be ready. We waited there for about 30 minutes when they announced that there was lunch being served in the "Sports Bar." Ruffus went to scope that out, while we waited in the lounge. He came back and told us that it was VERY crowded and the lines were out the door waiting to get served. (Also it was starting to rain, and there was very limited indoor seating.) So we continued to wait. Around 12:30 PM they announced that our cabins were ready. So we gather our junk and headed to our cabin 8014.
These were the smallest damn cabins I have ever seen! We had a balcony cabin, and it was MUCH smaller than the cabins on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess or Disney. There was hardly any closet space, but we had to make due. Luckily, there was room under the bed for us to place our luggage or we really would have been SOL. After we settled our things in our cabin, we again tried to get something to eat at the Sports Bar. No luck, so we went to one of the main restaurants Terraces to eat lunch. Our food was tasty and the service was excellent. Little did we know that this would be the last time on this cruise for us to have such a dining experience.
One by one, our entire group arrived on the ship. Some of us had not seen each other since our last cruise, so the reunion was joyous and fun. We had planned some fun activities and looked forward to sharing this time together with family and friends.
Unlike other cruise lines, NCL has "Free Style" dining, which means you have no assigned time, dining room or seating. This works like a restaurant, first come-first served, or by reservation. The first night we all dined separately, as most of our group traveled from other cities that day, and wanted to rest. However, since we were traveling as a group and we wanted to eat dinner together for the remainder of the cruise, so we had to make reservations. Group dinning is only reserved for a 5:30 PM seating or 8:30 PM seating. We opted for 5:30 PM.
That night we had VERY rough seas, so most people remained in their cabins and many people got seasick.
Sunday, October 15, 2006 - At Sea
Refreshed from a rocky night's sleep we got up early and again tried to eat breakfast at the Sports Bar (top deck.) The weather was still bad, and the ship was rocking – big-time! Again, there was a long line and no place to sit indoors. We stood in line and finally got some food, then headed into one of the lounge areas to find a place to eat indoors. By this time we were really missing the Lido Deck on Carnival, and were beginning to regret our decision to go NCL.
Since the weather was bad, all of the on deck activities were cancelled, which is understandable. However, there were limited things to do inside. The Casino was calling everyone’s name, and I can attest to spending more money in this casino that any other one that I have visited. That still is not much, because I don’t normally even go into the casino. But being bored, I tried my luck, and I won over 200 dollars between the "Wheel of Fortune" and "Black Widow" slot machines.
That night we had a surprise birthday party for Ruffus, and we all wore Black and White formal attire.
It was so funny when we arrived at the dining room. Ruffus commented that everyone had on black and white. It was not until we were all seated and yelled "surprise" that he knew it was a party for him.
Again, we waited several hours for our food, but because we were in such great company, we managed to enjoy the evening. Which ended with a birthday cake and at the wait staff singing "Happy Birthday To You" and of course in the African American Tradition we sang "Happy Birthday to Ya" as song by Stevie Wonder.
After dinner, we all changed and went to our favorite, Karaoke. There was a very strong crosswind on the top deck as we fought our way to the observatory lounge. We were almost blown away, and we laughed so hard our sides hurt and the prospect of falling overboard or losing our "evening hair"!
Karaoke was a dud. Not much participation. I think mainly because it started so late, 10:30 PM. After our group performance of "Proud Mary" we left and headed to the Disco. The Disco was almost as dead as the Karaoke bar, however, eventually they played a few good songs that inspired everyone to get up and dance. Please note that there was a man shortage on that boat, so Ruffus and Winston had to do double duty dancing with all the ladies in our group.
Monday, October 16, 2006 - Progresso, Mexico
We purchased a shore excursion to Chichen Itza, Mexico. We had to meet in the Stardust Lounge at 7:45 AM where we were given a box lunch (tuna sandwich, veggie sandwich, granola bar, fruit cocktail, and a bottle of water) the trip to the Mayan Ruins would take two hours and our tour guides Jorge and Victor, told us about the Mayan Culture past and present as we were in route from the Progresso port.
The Ruins were beautiful, and I am glad I finally got to see them. It was very HOT, and we had to walk on gravel paths, so I was worn out by the time we returned to the ship.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006 - Cozumel, Mexico
We purchased a day pass at the Reef Club and Resort. It was absolutely beautiful. The pass included open bar, all you can eat buffet, all you could eat from the grill - a beautiful beach, swimming pools... movie stars... Well not the movie stars part, but everything else was included. he resort was on the beach and they supplied us with towels, beach chairs and use of water sports.
Today was Nina's birthday so we had reservations to eat at LaBistro restaurant. There is an additional $15.00 surcharge to eat in this restaurant. It was not worth the extra money, and the service was slower than the other restaurant. We had a 6:30 PM reservation and did not finish until after 9 PM. The staff continuously apologized about the delay because of the "new menu", but this was starting to get old as we were hearing this same old song in every restaurant.
Pajama Party - hosted by Nina and Lynda
That night at 10:30 PM Nina and Lynda hosted a pajama party in the NCL Conference Room! Boy did we have fun. The first funny thing that happen was we got locked in the room! What made this hilarious is that Ruffus was locked in the room with us; he was knocking on the glass windows asking for help, this was truly funny. Finally, someone came to his rescue and he and Winston left hightailing it out of there, not to be seen again that night!
We played games and read passages from "Tickle His Pickle"; I laughed 'til I cried. Literally. If laughter is a good cleansing for the soul, I was thoroughly cleanest.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - Belize City, Belize
You have to tender into Belize, which I hated, because it is a LOOOONG tender to port.
This was our third trip to Belize so we had done all of the tours. However, since it was the first time for a few people in our party, we got a taxi at the port and took a city tour. Our taxi driver did a good job of showing us around. He even took us to his wife's restaurant where a few of us sampled some authentic Belizean food, Rice and Beans, Stewed Chicken and Plantains. I only got a spoonful, but from what I tasted it was pretty good. After the tour, we walked around the port and purchased a few souvenirs and made our way back to the ship
Pokeno Night – Hosted by Sara and Tami
At 10:30 PM Sara and Tami hosted a Pekeno Party, where we each received cards and put quarters in 6 different pots; Pokeno, Center, Four Corners, Two of a Kind, Four of a Kind and Flush. We listed to oldies music and argued about the "official" rules of the game. We had a great time, and Jan was the biggest winner that night ($35.00!) She continued her winning streak at the Casino where she won a couple of hundred dollars.
Thursday, October 19, 2006 - At Sea
African Healing Night - Hosted by Karan
Four Season's Restaurant
Friday, October 20, 2006 - At Sea
Terrace Restaurant Dining
Saturday, October 21, 2006 - Debarkation
PROS: Embarkation and Debarkation, the easiest and fastest that I have experience on any cruise line and at any port. The staff was very courteous and polite.
CONS: Our biggest complaint was dining. It took a ridiculously long time for us to receive our food in all of the restaurants. Our average wait time after dinner seating was 2 hours. This was the norm, not the exception. The quality of the food was OK. Better at the beginning of the cruise and declining thereafter. Also, we missed having formal nights. We enjoy the opportunity to get dressed up and be entertained by the staff. There was no singing or dancing in the dining areas (except for one waiter in the Sports Bar who did some sing-alongs during lunch.) The cabins are very small and there is not much storage (we had a balcony room.) The NCL Dream is an older ship. No elaborate atrium lobby, and a very funky layout. We were told that the ship was being retired in 2007.
Good! I think it should be.
First, I must tell you, that we had a great time. This was due to the fact that we had an awesome group of people traveling with us, and we managed to make our own fun.Here is a synopsis of our trip:
Saturday, October 14, 2006 - Embarkation, La Porte, TX
Five of us arrived at the cruise terminal in La Porte, TX about 11:00 AM. We were dropped off right in front, and Ruffus went to park our vehicle at the parking lot that was adjacent to the terminal (very close.) The embarkation was the fasted that I ever experienced (and this was my 14th cruise.) So, at this point we were very impressed. By 11:30 AM we were onboard and hurdled into the "Stardust Lounge" to wait for our cabins to be ready. We waited there for about 30 minutes when they announced that there was lunch being served in the "Sports Bar." Ruffus went to scope that out, while we waited in the lounge. He came back and told us that it was VERY crowded and the lines were out the door waiting to get served. (Also it was starting to rain, and there was very limited indoor seating.) So we continued to wait. Around 12:30 PM they announced that our cabins were ready. So we gather our junk and headed to our cabin 8014.
These were the smallest damn cabins I have ever seen! We had a balcony cabin, and it was MUCH smaller than the cabins on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess or Disney. There was hardly any closet space, but we had to make due. Luckily, there was room under the bed for us to place our luggage or we really would have been SOL. After we settled our things in our cabin, we again tried to get something to eat at the Sports Bar. No luck, so we went to one of the main restaurants Terraces to eat lunch. Our food was tasty and the service was excellent. Little did we know that this would be the last time on this cruise for us to have such a dining experience.
One by one, our entire group arrived on the ship. Some of us had not seen each other since our last cruise, so the reunion was joyous and fun. We had planned some fun activities and looked forward to sharing this time together with family and friends.
Unlike other cruise lines, NCL has "Free Style" dining, which means you have no assigned time, dining room or seating. This works like a restaurant, first come-first served, or by reservation. The first night we all dined separately, as most of our group traveled from other cities that day, and wanted to rest. However, since we were traveling as a group and we wanted to eat dinner together for the remainder of the cruise, so we had to make reservations. Group dinning is only reserved for a 5:30 PM seating or 8:30 PM seating. We opted for 5:30 PM.
That night we had VERY rough seas, so most people remained in their cabins and many people got seasick.
Sunday, October 15, 2006 - At Sea
Refreshed from a rocky night's sleep we got up early and again tried to eat breakfast at the Sports Bar (top deck.) The weather was still bad, and the ship was rocking – big-time! Again, there was a long line and no place to sit indoors. We stood in line and finally got some food, then headed into one of the lounge areas to find a place to eat indoors. By this time we were really missing the Lido Deck on Carnival, and were beginning to regret our decision to go NCL.
Since the weather was bad, all of the on deck activities were cancelled, which is understandable. However, there were limited things to do inside. The Casino was calling everyone’s name, and I can attest to spending more money in this casino that any other one that I have visited. That still is not much, because I don’t normally even go into the casino. But being bored, I tried my luck, and I won over 200 dollars between the "Wheel of Fortune" and "Black Widow" slot machines.
That night we had a surprise birthday party for Ruffus, and we all wore Black and White formal attire.
It was so funny when we arrived at the dining room. Ruffus commented that everyone had on black and white. It was not until we were all seated and yelled "surprise" that he knew it was a party for him.
Again, we waited several hours for our food, but because we were in such great company, we managed to enjoy the evening. Which ended with a birthday cake and at the wait staff singing "Happy Birthday To You" and of course in the African American Tradition we sang "Happy Birthday to Ya" as song by Stevie Wonder.
After dinner, we all changed and went to our favorite, Karaoke. There was a very strong crosswind on the top deck as we fought our way to the observatory lounge. We were almost blown away, and we laughed so hard our sides hurt and the prospect of falling overboard or losing our "evening hair"!
Karaoke was a dud. Not much participation. I think mainly because it started so late, 10:30 PM. After our group performance of "Proud Mary" we left and headed to the Disco. The Disco was almost as dead as the Karaoke bar, however, eventually they played a few good songs that inspired everyone to get up and dance. Please note that there was a man shortage on that boat, so Ruffus and Winston had to do double duty dancing with all the ladies in our group.
Monday, October 16, 2006 - Progresso, Mexico
We purchased a shore excursion to Chichen Itza, Mexico. We had to meet in the Stardust Lounge at 7:45 AM where we were given a box lunch (tuna sandwich, veggie sandwich, granola bar, fruit cocktail, and a bottle of water) the trip to the Mayan Ruins would take two hours and our tour guides Jorge and Victor, told us about the Mayan Culture past and present as we were in route from the Progresso port.
The Ruins were beautiful, and I am glad I finally got to see them. It was very HOT, and we had to walk on gravel paths, so I was worn out by the time we returned to the ship.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006 - Cozumel, Mexico
We purchased a day pass at the Reef Club and Resort. It was absolutely beautiful. The pass included open bar, all you can eat buffet, all you could eat from the grill - a beautiful beach, swimming pools... movie stars... Well not the movie stars part, but everything else was included. he resort was on the beach and they supplied us with towels, beach chairs and use of water sports.
Today was Nina's birthday so we had reservations to eat at LaBistro restaurant. There is an additional $15.00 surcharge to eat in this restaurant. It was not worth the extra money, and the service was slower than the other restaurant. We had a 6:30 PM reservation and did not finish until after 9 PM. The staff continuously apologized about the delay because of the "new menu", but this was starting to get old as we were hearing this same old song in every restaurant.
Pajama Party - hosted by Nina and Lynda
That night at 10:30 PM Nina and Lynda hosted a pajama party in the NCL Conference Room! Boy did we have fun. The first funny thing that happen was we got locked in the room! What made this hilarious is that Ruffus was locked in the room with us; he was knocking on the glass windows asking for help, this was truly funny. Finally, someone came to his rescue and he and Winston left hightailing it out of there, not to be seen again that night!
We played games and read passages from "Tickle His Pickle"; I laughed 'til I cried. Literally. If laughter is a good cleansing for the soul, I was thoroughly cleanest.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - Belize City, Belize
You have to tender into Belize, which I hated, because it is a LOOOONG tender to port.
This was our third trip to Belize so we had done all of the tours. However, since it was the first time for a few people in our party, we got a taxi at the port and took a city tour. Our taxi driver did a good job of showing us around. He even took us to his wife's restaurant where a few of us sampled some authentic Belizean food, Rice and Beans, Stewed Chicken and Plantains. I only got a spoonful, but from what I tasted it was pretty good. After the tour, we walked around the port and purchased a few souvenirs and made our way back to the ship
Pokeno Night – Hosted by Sara and Tami
At 10:30 PM Sara and Tami hosted a Pekeno Party, where we each received cards and put quarters in 6 different pots; Pokeno, Center, Four Corners, Two of a Kind, Four of a Kind and Flush. We listed to oldies music and argued about the "official" rules of the game. We had a great time, and Jan was the biggest winner that night ($35.00!) She continued her winning streak at the Casino where she won a couple of hundred dollars.
Thursday, October 19, 2006 - At Sea
African Healing Night - Hosted by Karan
Four Season's Restaurant
Friday, October 20, 2006 - At Sea
Terrace Restaurant Dining
Saturday, October 21, 2006 - Debarkation
PROS: Embarkation and Debarkation, the easiest and fastest that I have experience on any cruise line and at any port. The staff was very courteous and polite.
CONS: Our biggest complaint was dining. It took a ridiculously long time for us to receive our food in all of the restaurants. Our average wait time after dinner seating was 2 hours. This was the norm, not the exception. The quality of the food was OK. Better at the beginning of the cruise and declining thereafter. Also, we missed having formal nights. We enjoy the opportunity to get dressed up and be entertained by the staff. There was no singing or dancing in the dining areas (except for one waiter in the Sports Bar who did some sing-alongs during lunch.) The cabins are very small and there is not much storage (we had a balcony room.) The NCL Dream is an older ship. No elaborate atrium lobby, and a very funky layout. We were told that the ship was being retired in 2007.
Good! I think it should be.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Lost and Found
Recently, I broke down and purchased a black "Le Mystere Dream Tisha Seamless Bra." Why is that important you say? Well, that girl costs $66.00! And for me to spend that much for a damn bra, is a major investment. You see I am the queen of bargains. I pity the fool who stands in my way when I am in route to a sale. It HURTS me to pay full price for anything, because the truth is everything goes on sale eventually - but they might not have your size.
My girl Oprah went on and on about this bra, and how it made your girls all "perky." And since one of my pre-menopausal gifts was a blossoming bosom, I thought it time that I purchased myself a good industrial strength bra. I ordered it online at Amazon.com and a few days later it arrived in the mail. It certainly looked different than any bra I had every seen, and I am quite sure it can stop bullets. The important question is how does it feel?
It felt great, and it sure looked great underneath my clothes, so I decided it was worth the hefty price tag, and even considered ordering another one in white.
When laundry day rolled around, I decided that I was not putting my $66.00 bra in the washing machine; surely it deserved to be hand washed. And that is when all hell broke loose. I lost the damn bra.
I tore my house up from top to bottom trying to find my Tisha. I took everything out of every dresser drawer; went through each clothes hamper; looked behind the washer and dryer; and tore apart my closet. No Tisha.
This ritual went on for two days. Yesterday, I decided to go through everything again, this time I would do it like on "Mission Organization" (on of my favorite HGTV shows) I would create a pile to donate, a pile to keep, and a pile to throw away. I found bras that were as old as my 23- year-old son (these were 32 A 's by the way); how in the hell could I keep up with a 23 year-old bra, and lose a new bra within a week? Then it was obvious, there has got to be ghosts in my house.
Why then, did the ghosts decide to just take my bra? Well, ghosts are smart. They know that I am cheap, and the thought of loosing an expensive bra would literally drive me crazy. And they are right...I couldn't sleep. I keep getting up looking for the bra. Then I remembered I had just mailed Peggy her Santas, maybe I put the bra in the box. Ruffus looked at me like I had completely lost my mind, but I was dead serious. So when Peg called me last night to tell me she received the Santas I asked her "Was there a bra in the box?" After she stopped laughing she told me no, then she said she would double check ...no bra.
So now I have a huge pile of clothes to donate to the Goodwill, and a big trash bag of clothes that I didn't even know I had. But no Tisha, so I finally went to bed.
Last night I tossed and turned all night wondering where was my bra? I said to the Lord, "I know this isn't that important in the scheme of life, but I really hope you let me find my bra." I woke up this morning, and decided to take my own advice "just let it go!" I would just go on-line and order me another Tisha, and hopefully she would arrive before we leave for our cruise next week.
I took my shower, got dressed and got ready for work. I decided to take one more look;
Then I decide to look at the area of the closet that I keep out-of-season-a.k.a-too-small clothes and there behind a file cabinet was Ms. Tisha Le Mystere!
All I could say was Hallelujah, thank-you Jesus!
But what I was thinking was, Ghosts I tell you. Ghosts.
My girl Oprah went on and on about this bra, and how it made your girls all "perky." And since one of my pre-menopausal gifts was a blossoming bosom, I thought it time that I purchased myself a good industrial strength bra. I ordered it online at Amazon.com and a few days later it arrived in the mail. It certainly looked different than any bra I had every seen, and I am quite sure it can stop bullets. The important question is how does it feel?
It felt great, and it sure looked great underneath my clothes, so I decided it was worth the hefty price tag, and even considered ordering another one in white.
When laundry day rolled around, I decided that I was not putting my $66.00 bra in the washing machine; surely it deserved to be hand washed. And that is when all hell broke loose. I lost the damn bra.
I tore my house up from top to bottom trying to find my Tisha. I took everything out of every dresser drawer; went through each clothes hamper; looked behind the washer and dryer; and tore apart my closet. No Tisha.
This ritual went on for two days. Yesterday, I decided to go through everything again, this time I would do it like on "Mission Organization" (on of my favorite HGTV shows) I would create a pile to donate, a pile to keep, and a pile to throw away. I found bras that were as old as my 23- year-old son (these were 32 A 's by the way); how in the hell could I keep up with a 23 year-old bra, and lose a new bra within a week? Then it was obvious, there has got to be ghosts in my house.
Why then, did the ghosts decide to just take my bra? Well, ghosts are smart. They know that I am cheap, and the thought of loosing an expensive bra would literally drive me crazy. And they are right...I couldn't sleep. I keep getting up looking for the bra. Then I remembered I had just mailed Peggy her Santas, maybe I put the bra in the box. Ruffus looked at me like I had completely lost my mind, but I was dead serious. So when Peg called me last night to tell me she received the Santas I asked her "Was there a bra in the box?" After she stopped laughing she told me no, then she said she would double check ...no bra.
So now I have a huge pile of clothes to donate to the Goodwill, and a big trash bag of clothes that I didn't even know I had. But no Tisha, so I finally went to bed.
Last night I tossed and turned all night wondering where was my bra? I said to the Lord, "I know this isn't that important in the scheme of life, but I really hope you let me find my bra." I woke up this morning, and decided to take my own advice "just let it go!" I would just go on-line and order me another Tisha, and hopefully she would arrive before we leave for our cruise next week.
I took my shower, got dressed and got ready for work. I decided to take one more look;
I looked through my dresser...no Tisha.
I looked through my closet.. no Tisha.
I looked through Ruffus's side of the closet...no Tisha.
Then I decide to look at the area of the closet that I keep out-of-season-a.k.a-too-small clothes and there behind a file cabinet was Ms. Tisha Le Mystere!
All I could say was Hallelujah, thank-you Jesus!
But what I was thinking was, Ghosts I tell you. Ghosts.
Friday, September 01, 2006
When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts
If you haven't had a chance to see Spike Lee's new HBO documentary, it is not too late. It is still being aired on HBO and is worth the disc space on your DVR (or video tape on your VHS) to record and watch at your leisure.
It is an in-depth look at the Hurricane Katrina Disaster and you are sure to learn something you didn't know. It is also a reminder that the survivors of this disaster are still going through some difficult times, and are still in need of much assistance.
For more info visit:
http://www.hbo.com/docs/programs/whentheleveesbroke/?ntrack_para1=leftnav_category6_show0
For upcoming show times visit:
http://www.hbo.com/apps/schedule/ScheduleServlet?ACTION_DETAIL=DETAIL&FOCUS_ID=633828
SYNOPSIS:
On August 29, 2005, the city of New Orleans was forever changed when Hurricane Katrina made landfall, breaching levees, flooding neighborhoods, and killing more than a thousand residents. One year later, acclaimed director Spike Lee presents this four-hour, four-part HBO documentary event that recounts one of the United States' most profound natural disasters through words and images. In addition to revisiting the hours leading up to the devastating storm, the film tells the personal stories of those who lived to tell about it while also exploring the underbelly of a nation where the divide along race and class lines has never been more pronounced.
It is an in-depth look at the Hurricane Katrina Disaster and you are sure to learn something you didn't know. It is also a reminder that the survivors of this disaster are still going through some difficult times, and are still in need of much assistance.
For more info visit:
http://www.hbo.com/docs/programs/whentheleveesbroke/?ntrack_para1=leftnav_category6_show0
For upcoming show times visit:
http://www.hbo.com/apps/schedule/ScheduleServlet?ACTION_DETAIL=DETAIL&FOCUS_ID=633828
SYNOPSIS:
On August 29, 2005, the city of New Orleans was forever changed when Hurricane Katrina made landfall, breaching levees, flooding neighborhoods, and killing more than a thousand residents. One year later, acclaimed director Spike Lee presents this four-hour, four-part HBO documentary event that recounts one of the United States' most profound natural disasters through words and images. In addition to revisiting the hours leading up to the devastating storm, the film tells the personal stories of those who lived to tell about it while also exploring the underbelly of a nation where the divide along race and class lines has never been more pronounced.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Say What? Pluto is not a Planet?
I was already upset when I found out my favorite TV Show, Stargate SG1, was not being renewed after 10 seasons, then today I get the news that Pluto is not a planet. News like this makes you wonder, WTF?
There are some thinks that we think we know for sure... The earth is round, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, and there are nine planets. Well so much for what we know!
That's right, Pluto's out!
Discovered by American Clyde Tombaugh in 1930, Pluto has been considered a planet my entire life. But today, the International Astronomical Union (who the heck are these guys?) voted to remove Pluto as a planet. You know you got a lot a clout when you can ban a planet.
Now our solar system consist of 8 planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune) and 4 plutons or Pluto-like entities: Pluto itself, Ceres, 2003 UB313 and Charon.
Now Moms everywhere are scrambling to revamp those science fair projects (Not to mention all the textbooks and encyclopedias publishers.)
So now I sit Plutoless, watching Stargate SG1 reruns, and saving-up to complete my SG1 DVD Collection.
There are some thinks that we think we know for sure... The earth is round, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, and there are nine planets. Well so much for what we know!
That's right, Pluto's out!
Discovered by American Clyde Tombaugh in 1930, Pluto has been considered a planet my entire life. But today, the International Astronomical Union (who the heck are these guys?) voted to remove Pluto as a planet. You know you got a lot a clout when you can ban a planet.
Now our solar system consist of 8 planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune) and 4 plutons or Pluto-like entities: Pluto itself, Ceres, 2003 UB313 and Charon.
Now Moms everywhere are scrambling to revamp those science fair projects (Not to mention all the textbooks and encyclopedias publishers.)
So now I sit Plutoless, watching Stargate SG1 reruns, and saving-up to complete my SG1 DVD Collection.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
53 days to my next Cruise!
I am going through what I consider to be "cruise withdrawals." Considering I cannot swim, I have no idea why I enjoy being afloat for days at a time. But I really do.
It has been 8 months since my last cruise (last December); so I am actually longing for the pampering service that I receive on a cruise ship.
Each year, for the past 7 years, I along with a group of avid readers have vacationed together on the African American Book Club Summit at Sea. This October would have been our 8th annual literary adventure. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the event was postponed until 2007. So my cruise "Jones" really set in. Not to fear, many of my fellow cruise addicts (and AABCS participants) deciding to still go on a cruise, during our annual time slot, the third week in October.
So in 53 days we set sail for our Family and Friends Cruise and I can't wait!
It has been 8 months since my last cruise (last December); so I am actually longing for the pampering service that I receive on a cruise ship.
Each year, for the past 7 years, I along with a group of avid readers have vacationed together on the African American Book Club Summit at Sea. This October would have been our 8th annual literary adventure. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the event was postponed until 2007. So my cruise "Jones" really set in. Not to fear, many of my fellow cruise addicts (and AABCS participants) deciding to still go on a cruise, during our annual time slot, the third week in October.
So in 53 days we set sail for our Family and Friends Cruise and I can't wait!
Diva Blogging
No, I have not fallen off the face of the earth; I have actually been blogging for "Divas for a Cure."
For 23 days, my little sis Jan along with a great group of "Buffalo Soldiers" traveled across country and back, with one purpose - raising money for cancer research. They faced the elements of the universe (heat and rain); and of course there was a little "diva drama", but all in all (another EWF pun) they made it and raised over $25,000.00 in the process.
To check out what I have been blogging about for the past month please go to: divasforacure.blogspot.com
For 23 days, my little sis Jan along with a great group of "Buffalo Soldiers" traveled across country and back, with one purpose - raising money for cancer research. They faced the elements of the universe (heat and rain); and of course there was a little "diva drama", but all in all (another EWF pun) they made it and raised over $25,000.00 in the process.
To check out what I have been blogging about for the past month please go to: divasforacure.blogspot.com
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Farewell Tracey
This past Thursday, my friend Tracey Gibson lost her battle to Cancer. Tracey (Cracklin's as my husband called her :-) was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. Her smile would light up a room and her laugh was contagious. She will be missed by all who knew her.
We have got to find a cure for this deadly disease. If you would like to help, I urge you to support Divas For a Cure , and organization dedicated to helping in the fight against breast cancer.
Every little bit helps: http://www.firstgiving.com/pamwalkerwilliams
Tracey and her son Kemp.
Friday, June 16, 2006
FREE Make the Connection Bracelet Kit
By ordering a free Make the Connection bracelet kit, you will be helping to advance cervical cancer education and outreach. For every pair of bracelet kits ordered, Merck will donate one dollar to Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation, up to $100,000, for cervical cancer awareness and screening programs among medically underserved women.
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Kits can also be ordered over the phone 888-4-HPV-CONNECT (888-447-8266).
With every order of the FREE Make the Connection bracelet kit you will get two kits, so you can invite someone to join you in showing support against cervical cancer.
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Kits can also be ordered over the phone 888-4-HPV-CONNECT (888-447-8266).
With every order of the FREE Make the Connection bracelet kit you will get two kits, so you can invite someone to join you in showing support against cervical cancer.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Divas For A Cure
Summer 2006, Divas For A Cure will take to the road, traveling from the San Francisco Bay Area to Florida, to New York and back, raising funds and awareness to aid in the fight to find a cure for Breast Cancer. Thousands of women annually are diagnosed with breast cancer, in California alone; more than 21,000 women will hear the words "you have breast cancer." An estimated 4,000 will die.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
What I am Reading....
When a Sistah's Fed Up by Monica "Dr Moe" Frazier Anderson
SYNOPSIS
Faith Henry has everything a man could want...but she is not a man.
She's the first African-American mayor of Ulysses, Texas. She's married to her college sweetheart, and she has two "almost" perfect children. So why is she unhappy? And who attempted to kill her? Was it her jealous husband, Preston, who wants her at home full-time? Her vicious political rival, J.D. Person? Or was it the irate citizen who threatens her at every council meeting?
When a dark secret from the mayor's past is revealed during her campaign for re-election, she drops in the polls and falls into the arms of Raymond Hart, her charming administrative assistant. She's weary of well-doing, and tired of being taken for granted, but wrong is wrong. Right?
It's the test of a lifetime with no easy answers. Have you ever been fed up?
Click Here to order: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/142084895X/thegoodbookclubt
Review to come...
SYNOPSIS
Faith Henry has everything a man could want...but she is not a man.
She's the first African-American mayor of Ulysses, Texas. She's married to her college sweetheart, and she has two "almost" perfect children. So why is she unhappy? And who attempted to kill her? Was it her jealous husband, Preston, who wants her at home full-time? Her vicious political rival, J.D. Person? Or was it the irate citizen who threatens her at every council meeting?
When a dark secret from the mayor's past is revealed during her campaign for re-election, she drops in the polls and falls into the arms of Raymond Hart, her charming administrative assistant. She's weary of well-doing, and tired of being taken for granted, but wrong is wrong. Right?
It's the test of a lifetime with no easy answers. Have you ever been fed up?
Click Here to order: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/142084895X/thegoodbookclubt
Review to come...
Friday, March 31, 2006
One of Those Days...
Today, I am having "one of those days." You know, the kind of day, that makes you wonder is it all worth it. My Mother taught me to work hard and have a good work ethic, and I would be rewarded, prosper and do well. Events that have taken place at my "day job" this past month has caused me to wonder, is that really true?
I decided to do, what I do, when I am having "one of those days,"
Just like that, I got my answer! The words of one of my favorite hymns came to me crystal clear, this gave me a second wind, a glimmer of hope.
Like a ship that's tossed and driven, battered by an angry sea;
The Lord will make a way somehow, when beneath the cross I bow,
Try to do the best in service, try to do the best you can;
Often there's misunderstanding, out of all the good I do;
I decided to do, what I do, when I am having "one of those days,"
... I cried to the Lord for help.
Just like that, I got my answer! The words of one of my favorite hymns came to me crystal clear, this gave me a second wind, a glimmer of hope.
I would like to share the words of this song with you, just in case you need a lift today...
THE LORD WILL MAKE A WAY
Like a ship that's tossed and driven, battered by an angry sea;
When the storms of life are raging, and their fury falls on me,
I wonder what I have done, that makes this race so hard to run;
Then I say to my soul, take courage, the Lord will make a way somehow.
The Lord will make a way somehow, when beneath the cross I bow,
He will take away each sorrow, Let Him have your burdens now;
When the loads bears down so heavy the weight is shown upon my brow,
There's a sweet relief in knowing the Lord will make a way somehow.
Try to do the best in service, try to do the best you can;
When I choose to do the right thing evil's present on every hand;
I look up and wonder why that good fortune passed me by;
Then I say to my soul, be patient, the Lord will make a way somehow.
Often there's misunderstanding, out of all the good I do;
Go to friends for consolation, and I find them complaining, too;
So many nights I toss in pain, wondering what the day will bring;
Then I say to my heart, don't worry, the Lord will make a way somehow.
(Written by Thomas A. Dorsey)
(Written by Thomas A. Dorsey)
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Putting Things in Perspective
This month has caused me to reflect on my life and reevaluate just what is important.
Last week, a friend and co-worker passed away following a brief but courageous bought with Cancer. This past Monday, my father-in-law passed away. This happen the same day I was given the news that my job of 20 plus years was just going away, "deemed unnecessary" was the exact term. Had I been given that news a month ago, I probably would have been devastated. However, compared to losing a loved-one, this news seemed both trifle and of little significance. After all, the job has served it purpose. I had the opportunity to raise a wonderful child, provide him with a college education and send him into the world as an intelligent educated black man. For what more could a mother ask ?
I have never been the type of person to hold one job anyway. I really should have been Jamaican. I have done catering, floral arranging, written and directed plays, owned a performing arts studio, taught dance, sold clothes, designed greeting cards, and owned a successful web design business, all while holding down a full-time job. Perhaps, it really is time for a change.
I will probably be put into another position (Or out to pasture, LOL), after all I am a dedicated employee. But I will truly miss the comradely I have with my current coworkers. No one could ask to work with a more talented group of eclectic individuals. I will miss seeing their faces each day and the sharing of stories of our life's journey.
Well, I don't know what is around the corner for me, but I do know that God does not make mistakes. This means that there is something wonderful waiting for me, a new adventure, and I just can't wait to see what it is.
Last week, a friend and co-worker passed away following a brief but courageous bought with Cancer. This past Monday, my father-in-law passed away. This happen the same day I was given the news that my job of 20 plus years was just going away, "deemed unnecessary" was the exact term. Had I been given that news a month ago, I probably would have been devastated. However, compared to losing a loved-one, this news seemed both trifle and of little significance. After all, the job has served it purpose. I had the opportunity to raise a wonderful child, provide him with a college education and send him into the world as an intelligent educated black man. For what more could a mother ask ?
I have never been the type of person to hold one job anyway. I really should have been Jamaican. I have done catering, floral arranging, written and directed plays, owned a performing arts studio, taught dance, sold clothes, designed greeting cards, and owned a successful web design business, all while holding down a full-time job. Perhaps, it really is time for a change.
I will probably be put into another position (Or out to pasture, LOL), after all I am a dedicated employee. But I will truly miss the comradely I have with my current coworkers. No one could ask to work with a more talented group of eclectic individuals. I will miss seeing their faces each day and the sharing of stories of our life's journey.
Well, I don't know what is around the corner for me, but I do know that God does not make mistakes. This means that there is something wonderful waiting for me, a new adventure, and I just can't wait to see what it is.
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