Another Decade

Good morning and Happy DAY 365!!

I am still amazed that another 10 years have gone. How did you close out 1999 and bring in the 21st century? Over the past 10 years, I:

* completed my doctorate
* found myself unemployed after finishing school
* moved across the country in search of employment
* experienced my share of bumps, but found my groove
* have met some wonderful people as well as those who have made me STRONGER
* leaned on my parents more than I thought humanly possible
* clung to God's hands so hard that HE needed some Ben Gay
* still searching for the love that makes my heart ripple; I've learned to do bad by myself though
* have grown - spiritually and professionally.

PARTY HARD TONIGHT!!! BE SAFE!!!

A MONTAGE OF CHRISTMAS PHOTOS

MOI opening my gift from Charles
Grandma Rose and her grandsons (T. and John, II)
Jordan and MY baby (aka T.'s nephew)
Jordan, Chelsea, and John, III.
Peanut Butter Blossoms, Chocolate Krinkles, and Pecan Sandies
Sassy Rhonda
Charles opening one of his Christmas gifts
Moi and the Kindle DX!!!!!
I've been GOOD!!!
The post Christmas sale purchase of all purchases. This brings back memories of my childhood; Mom had similar ones.

NEW HITS

Check out the Juke Joint; I have added at least 50 additional hits!

How was your Christmas? I have pictures forthcoming.

I hit the Christmas sales at: TARJAY, Michael's, JoAnn's, and Hobby Lobby. I was home by 10am.

Was Santa good to y'all? Did y'all remember to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jesus?

Word.

JOY TO THE WORLD!

THE LORD HAS COME. LET EARTH PROCLAIM HER KING!!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!! Here's my official 2009 Christmas photo (card). I was shooting for that 1940s feel with a 21st century edge.

Love y'all!

266

is the # that stopped my heart yesterday. Readers, you know that I promote good health. Yesterday, I felt as if I was the blonde from the Lipitor commercial. My genes are catching up with me; diabetes and high cholesteroral #s run in my family. My NP's medical asst. called me yesterday while I was @ TARJAY eating a couple kernals of their delicious popcorn. When she called, I knew something was wrong; the doctor's office NEVER calls you 24 hours to the hour after you had bloodwork performed with the results, ESPECIALLY during the holidays.

I asked her if she had my #s confused with someone else. She said, "No." I don't eat a lot of fried foods; I exercise. As stressed as I stay, I half eat. Mom reminded me that I do love my sugar, which includes eggs (cholesteral); shortening and butter (cholesteral).

JESUS, Mommy JESUS (as my friend' s baby would say).


Sigh.

Are you through shopping?

A LIL' PREVIEW

Oh, how I enjoy this sweet, family. I do hate how blogger makes my photos look. Which one is your favorite?

T's Christmas photo

Truly, T. is on cloud nine. This is his official 2009 Christmas photo. T. looks as if it's snow behind him rather than water. Sylvia and Adrienne, thanks for the comments.

What Christmas festivities did you engage in over the weekend? I took photos, and that's about it. Charles and I will probably see "The Nutcracker" the weekend of the 18th. Next weekend, I am scheduled to bake cookies with T. and his bro's girlfriend.

Happy Monday!

Photo Session with T.

Today,I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with T. We went to the Mesa Arts Center in order to take T.'s Christmas photo. The last photo is going to be T's Christmas card photo. Stay tuned for what I do with it. He was on CLOUD NINE!!

Next week - Miss Sara and her sweet family. Sara, find a "prop" for the baby. I am not a professional; however, considering what I saw some "pseudo professional photographers" doing @ the Center, I did a great job.

Off to get dressed for the D.L. Hughley comedy nite.

Love.

ROCKIN' AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

I *guess* you can say that I am in the Christmas spirit. ;)

Are you rockin' around your Christmas tree?

Things that have been going on:

* Work is keeping me BUSY
* Students are glueing their hands together with Super Glue
* I spend a large percentage of my time (unfortunately) with lazy adults
* It's good to hear Christmas music in the air
* I am going to see D.L. Hughley tonight
* Mr. A. gets on my last NERVE
* Charles is a sweet soul; I don't know how he has the patience to deal with me.
* I am taking T.'s Christmas photos today; I am glad that my 50 mm 1.4 lens is now repaired (the auto focus went out). The shop had it for TWO months becuz Canon was backordered on the needed part.

Love y'all!

Tis the SEASON!!!

And a HO! HO! HO! to YOU!!!

Tis the season, folks to commemorate Jesus's birth and to shop!!! How many of y'all ventured out to your local mall/Best Buy yesterday? I was crazy enuf to do it; it's a tradition. The traffic wasn't that bad. I could MOVE; however, I was there by 9am, and I left at 11am. I ain't CRAZY!

Audrey, I went to SE yesterday afternoon. I saw your "clone" with a baby carrier, and I went up to her thinking that it could possibly be you. ;)

Ang., it's time to update your blog with pics of the babies!

Christina, I will visit your blog soon. I am trying to play catch-up. Love ya!

Readers, truly, I am thankful for each of you. Please be safe during this holiday season. Hold on to your bags TIGHT. Leave those expensive handbags and wedding sets @ home. We live in desperate times, and if you are shopping and wearing these items, you will be easy prey.

My decorations are UP. Be sure to check out my blog by tomorrow.

Word

PS: Like my new header? ;)

A CORNUCOPIA OF BLESSINGS!

TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING,
BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP.
I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS,
I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.

THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED -
THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE,
BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION
WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT.

TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION,
THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION.
SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR,
AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE.
GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTERED POTATOES,
PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES.

I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND,
'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND.
I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY,
WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.
BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES....
HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,
MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.
MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP.
MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS.
MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,
MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS!!

Happy Thanksgiving to EACH of you! Do take time to recall all of the blessings that GOD has bestowed on you and your family.

Love ya!

ALIVE

barely.

Work has been chaotic.
People are SICK.
Thank the Lord that I have common sense and parents who have common sense.
When it comes to my livelihood, don't mess with me.
I am blessed to have people who support me.

Word.

THE SPLENDOR OF FALL DECOR

Good evening!

I am on my way to a scrapbook crop. It's taken me FOREVER to post these pictures; however, here they are.

Fall is my FAVORITE time of the year. I love the colors and wonderful smells. I didn't realize how much I would miss the Midwest until I spent my first Fall in AZ. There's nothing like seeing leaves change colors and fall off trees; the smell of hot cider; the neighborhood smelling like burning firewood.

Sigh.

KUDOS TO THIS DIVA!!!

Good morning and HAPPY MONDAY!!!!

I hope that you enjoyed your weekend. I spent this entire weekend embracing some "Me-time." Mentally and physically, I needed it. I got some scrapbooking done (Fall album). I am looking forward to tomorrow night because I plan on doing some more once I return home. Wednesday = Veteran's Day = NO WORK at the JAY OH BEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am SO proud of Mo'Nique. I thought that I would share this article with you. Granted, she has the $$$ to lose weight; however, it does take determination. I cannot WAIT to until "Precious" is released in AZ. Trust me, I will be there. I fell in love with Sapphire 10 years ago. I wish that she would write another novel - - -SOON. Can you only imagine the cast on "Oprah?"

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20318044,00.html

Love y'all!

TRICK OR TREAT!!!!

smell my feet. Give me something good to eat!!!


Happy Halloween! This picture was taken yesterday after I arrived home from work. I dressed up as Miss Pearlie, the 1950s high school English teacher (the name given to me by Mr.A.). My students and colleagues didn't know WHO I was. I couldn't help but chuckle. The vintage glasses is what made the outfit.

Today, I am scheduled to go to the State Fair. Afterwards, a friend and I are going to The W's Halloween bash; we are to solve a mystery within a 2 hour time period.

Lordy! This is a full day. I am glad that I opted to take Monday off. I need some me-time. I am under so much pressure at work, especially since I am teaching Sophomore English; this is the year that the kids are scheduled to take their state examinations. God, give me STRENGTH!

I look forward to seeing your Halloween pics on your blogs!

WHERE HAVE I BEEN???

Good morning!

Readers, I have been so busy that I have barely seen MYSELF!!! LORDY!

I am alive, and I am doing quite fine. Here's a recap of what's been going on:

* Work is keeping me ever so busy; however, I am thankful to be EMPLOYED
* People aren't what you think they are
* There are some friends that you simply do NOT need
* We are under a lot of pressure @ work due to the need to improve our students' standardized test scores
* I need to learn how to sit my booty down still so that I can hear God as He tries and talks to moi

What are your weekend plans?

Tomorrow, I am attending a trunk or treat. If y'all don't know what one is, here's the 411 - - - you open your trunk and you pass out candy to chirren from it. Mind you, I never heard of this concept until I moved to Phoenix. Then, there are a lot of things that I've learned about upon my arrival to the Sun State.

Nite and HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

7000!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dear Readers:

I just realized that I have had 7000 "visits." Thanks SOO much for showing me love!

Now, get up and give God some Glory! Glory! this Sunday morning!

BUT WHY THE LONG HAIR, MOMMY?!

Readers:

Mattel hired a sista to create these dolls. Sis' girl, what were you thinkin'? The dolls' hair is still bone straight. Are the dolls named, "Relaxer Kristie?" "Weave Kristie?"

I am diggin' her Kristie Barbie shirt.

http://www.parentdish.com/2009/10/09/black-barbie-why-the-long-hair/


This topic will go on to infinity. I still have students who say, "You have that good hair." I Have to politely correct and educate them about the matter.

Comments?

GO 'HEAD ON, OBAMA!!!!

Indeed, I am PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!!!!!

Sang it, Beyonce!

Will folks EVER learn?

Didn't folks learn from Ted Danson eons ago?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k739n2VEsbA

THANK YOU!

Good morning!

Thank you for the wonderful, birthday greetings! I have pictures, and I will post them soon.

How are YOU?

This week, I am on Fall break; indeed, I needed it. I could have applied to work for two, Fall programs; however, I've been on the g-0 since July, and I truly needed some time off. My colleagues felt the same way, because admin was begging people to work. We're tired. I commend my colleagues who have to go home and deal with little ones after spending 8 hours having students call your name at least 20 times per class.

How are your Halloween decorations coming along? I have the wreath on the door, and indoor decorations. I am ready to start looking for Christmas decorations! I have some ideas for this year's tree, and I am waiting to see what the stores are selling. Hobby Lobby can't open fast enough! I passed by there on Monday, and the construction team was workin' away.

Be sure to read tomorrow's issue of People. People interviewed Jennifer Hudson. She looks so @ peace. I am ready for a photo like this, but firstmost, I am wanting for a formal wedding portrait on my coffee table:

THIS LIL' COWGIRL

is now THIRTY-FIVE. YEE HAW!!!

LET THE CELEBRATION BEGIN!

HELLLUUUURRRR!!

;)

It feels so good to have a moment to just SET DOWN. I've been battling a cold. Then, my a/c went out on Tuesday morning prior to work. I NEED A HUSBAND!!!! I told my warranty company the same thing as I broke down, cried, and asked them to send someone out ASAP. I had to take Wednesday off from work. Although I had planned on taking my bday off, I realized that I needed the break. I will be going to work next Wednesday.

GRRRR.

The fan went out in my unit. It is nice and cool again.

Tonight - - - dinner @ The Capital Grille with Mr. A.

www.capitalgrille.com


Christina - they have one in Milwaukee. Have you been?

I HAVE BEEN WAITING NEARLY 3 YEARS TO EAT THERE!!!

I have the dress - creme and black. The top part of the dress is sleeveless with folds. The other half is black. It's a "Michelle Obama" dress. She's lookin' good this week; the gold dress that she wore @ the summit is divine.

Love.

BUSY!!!

And, that ain't NO lie. Indeed, it's been a Manic Monday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAZgLcK5LzI


More later.

THE BUS

Readers:

I hope that you are doing well. I cannot believe that I haven't posted since Labor Day weekend. I've been busy - - - grading, trying to rest, and praying that God continues to order my steps as I deal with IGNORANT folks on a daily basis. That leads me to this morning's incident on the "professional" bus. I take the Rapid in order to get downtown in the AM. The bus driver (with his weak-ass self) speaks w/me before I get on the bus. APPARENTLY, someone has complained that I talk too loud on the bus. HELLO, there aren't any noise restrictions on the bus, except for loud music. DELIVER ME, LORD JESUS! I informed the driver that I do not curse or say anything inappropriate on the bus. I said that my bag may be on the seat; however, if someone wanted to sit in the front that badly, the woman to the left of me ALWAYS has the seat next to her open. I called the bus company, and I used my title today. The woman said, "You are in your right to talk on the bus. The driver should have nipped that conversation in the bud when the patron complained. I can barely hear you on the phone right now."

You see the photo up there? I want to stick the bus pass down the complainant's throat.

People are crazy.

The Devil is indeed busy; please continue to keep me in your prayers. What fools don't realize is that I am a child of God, and His mercy ALWAYS prevails!

Word.

PS: I finished The Help; I savored every minute of the novel. The writer needs to hurry and publish another novel!!!

It's a HOLIDAY!

And, I hope that each of you are celebrating!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGNcsRSz62c


There's nothing like some Black Eyed Peas to get the holiday going. ;)





I highly encourage you to read The Help; it's been a long time since I've read a novel written as well as this one. The author makes as if you are right there with Aibileen, Minny, Miss Sketter, and Mae Mobley.

Mr. A. is stoppin' by for dinner. It's almost done. I'm actually looking forward to this home-cooked meal. With me on the g-o so much due to the JAY-OH-BEE, I haven't cooked as often.

Peace.

AIN'T NOTHING GOING ON

Good morning!

Ain't nothing going on with me, readers. I've just been swamped with work. I am elated that this is a 3 day weekend; WOO! HOO!

What are you doing over the holiday weekend? Hopefully, you will not be laboring. I am doing some Fall cleaning. Today is a perfect day to do so. I feel as if I am back in the Midwest; it's overcast in AZ. It is also a perfect day to continue reading the Twilight saga.

Mom, I have a book for you - The Help by Kathryn Stockett. You may like it.

What are y'all reading?

I am so tired of the Obama-student controversy. Seriously, if this had been Carter, Reagan, and the Bushes, there would be no problem. I don't know how Michelle handles all of these "haters" hating on her husband.

I want their daughters; they are precious. I love seeing them in photos/on the news.


I so *heart* this story. I wish that there were more Abe Davises in the world.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/09/04/mississippi.lebanese/index.html

Word.

It's Such a GOOD feeling!

Mr. Rogers preached the Gospel here!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kzO-TRUV-g



Readers, celebrate life today!

I Just Can't Stop Praising His Name!

Good morning!


Are you finding yourself unable to stop praising His name?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYXxveF5d3w

The song was written by Keith Pringle and performed by the Pentacostal Community College.

What have you called the Lord up for recently? If you haven't, why don't you pick up the "phone" and do so? He DID wake you up this morning!

Yesterday, I met my friend, Audrey. We were introduced via the certification program. We've talked on the phone the entire summer, but we've never met. It was SO nice meeting her. I truly wish that Audrey lived closer. She's such a kind person, and I am most thankful for her helping me with the certification program. It's a rarity to find a sweet soul anymore.

How was your Saturday? I ventured to the mall; Dillards had a great sale going on. I so heart me some Dillards. Everything was either picked over and/or I didn't miss much by staying out of the mall this summer. If the economy is so poor, where are people getting all of this $$$ from?!

Call Me Rosa Parks!

Good morning, Readers!

I've been MIA. I am juggling a lot right now. By the time that I return home from work, I desire sleep and something to eat.

I must share why my post is titled, "Call Me Rosa Parks!"

* Last week, this 99 trying to make 100 man was angered that I had to sit next to him on the Park and Ride bus; the bus was packed, and it was the closest seat. I proceeded to call my grandmother as I do each day after work. The idiot got upset and started reading his book aloud. I informed him that I didn't have the patience for his Hooked on Phoenix BS, and if one of the students from my district wasn't on the bus, I would proceed to cuss him out. I got up, and I sat somewhere else.
* On Thursday morning, I board the bus. The seat where I normally sit was occupied Low and behold, I sat in PsychoNutCase's window row. Mind you, I didn't know. He proceeded to push his boney behind across me and demand to sit there. When I wouldn't move fast enough, he started to sit on my backpack. I moved, but I told the driver about the incident. Then, the man acted as if he were deef and needed to adjust his hearing aid.
* Yesterday, the man wasn't able to sit in "his' seat because another man was occupying it. I said," Oh, not going to try and push this young man out of YOUR seat? What's wrong? I explained what happened to me, and the young man said, "I WISH that you would bring your ass over here and try that with me. I know what your problem is, and I will handle it, trust me."
* I called Mr. A. on Thurs. AM. He said, "Damnit, Rosa Parks, it's the 21st century, and you still can't sit at the front of the bus." I laughed so hard on that bus that I was heaving."


Seriously, Leon and I both concurred that the man had some serious racial hatred - he was mad that he was elderly and was still working (it didn't appear that he was on the bus because he was trying to remain active; he needed the money); he was mad that I wanted to sit in his seat, and our African American President fully exemplifies that not only are blacks sitting in the front of the bus, we are also residing in the White House. Lastly, another black was in "his" seat on Friday morning.

On the way home yesterday, I had the back of the bus (only seats available) roaring about the crazy man, especially with my impression of how he was literally running to the bus yesterday morning only to find his seat occupied!

Truly, I love and respect the elderly. My paternal grandparents were up in age when I was born; however, I have problems with senior citizens who have lived their entire lives hating a particular group of people and will probably die doing so.

Can you imagine being that stagnant?

Weekend plans?

Mr. A.

was gracious enuf to allow me to take a few pics of him @ the g-i-g. There are also some from his birthday celebration.


Enjoy!