NaBloPoMo for February

Incidentally, I signed up for NaBloPoMo for the shortest month of the year. It was on purpose because if you must know I am the world’s greatest procrastinator, therefore it has made me lazy in doing this blog.

So I am challenging myself to post on this blog one post everyday for the whole (short) month of February.

So humor me guys. Join me. Read. Comment.

Even if it is not about the present blog. And wish me the best of luck. (I’m going to need it).

*BIBI*

Sisters......

I’ve had this ‘memo on life’ note for a long time from a good friend of mine. I thought it only proper to share this note today with all the women who read my blog to celebrate the momentous occasion of our President signing the first Bill today in the White House on equal pay for women. Its called the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and I feel that such a joyous affair should be celebrated with a letter praising all of us fine women what a great species we are when we DO stick together. Even if the men in our life don’t agree.

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.

“Don’t forget your Sisters,” she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. “They’ll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them; keep in touch by mail. And remember that “Sisters” also means your girlfriends, your daughters, and other women relatives too. You’ll need other women. Women always do.”

“What a funny piece of advice!” the young woman thought. Haven’t I just gotten married? Haven’t I just joined the couple-world? I’m now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup. Surely, my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!

Nevertheless, she listened to her mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life. Almost 60 years of living in this world, here is what I’ve learned:

Time passes.

Life happens.

Distance separates. Children grow up.

Love waxes and wanes.

Hearts break.

Cheers end.

Jobs come and go.

Parents die.

Colleagues forget favors.

Men don’t call when they say they will?

BUT Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A Sister is never farther away than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley, and you have to walk it for yourself, you Sisters will be on the valley’s rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley’s end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk besides you. Or come in and carry you out.

My mother, mother-in-law, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister, aunts, grandmothers, and “girlfriends” do bless my life! The world wouldn’t be the same without them, and neither would I.

When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other. Everyday we need each other still. Pass this on to the women who help make your life work.

I just did.

Lost in Translation...

Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus - why we need a dictionary!

Tag you're it...!

Recently, (yeah about two weeks ago) I received this interview tag from Kylie. I am just now getting to it because I either have writers block or severe ADD. And I hope it is the former ‘cause I don’t feel like being on meds and laying around all day.

It’s really simple; just five questions to answer and then you are done. It really is no tagging just a request from anyone who wants to participate. So email me and I send you a slew of questions (what! you thought you would get off easy with BIBI?), and then just post them and tell the blogging world where you got them from. Oh yeah! link to their blog as well. Have fun and enjoy!

1. Why did you start your blog and where do you get your inspiration for posts?

I started this blog on August 28, 2008. I needed someone to talk to since the hubby is not so loquacious and rarely does he let me get a verb in edgewise. So I started searching the web and happened upon blogs. I heard of them before but I thought it was only for famous people, because I only heard of like ‘Rosie’s’ blog and ‘freakanomics’, so I didn’t even try. But I gave it a shot that day and have been happily blogging since then. My inspiration definitely comes from my crazy, unpredictable, hilarious, wonderful children. There is never a dull moment in the BIBI household!

2. What is one thing in your past that you are either embarrassed or ashamed to admit?

Last week (Saturday) I hit a dog. I was so upset that I stopped in the middle of the two lane highway to town with cars and SUV’s zooming by. The owner came out when it got hit and I shouted a sobbing “I’M SOOOO SORRY!” He turned to me with a sad look on his face that I will never forget and just nodded his head. I’ll never be the same. Now if a squirrel looks as if it is attempting to play chicken in the road I’m STOPPING no matter what. I’m more sad and hurt that it happened then embarrassed or ashamed to admit it. Plus no one wants to hear any of my God awful stories of ‘oh! I’m so embarrassed, but I’m going to tell you anyway’ tales.

3. Is there anyone that you would like to go the rest of your life without having to speak to or deal with, but can’t because of what ever reason?

Yeah!! The EX. We had children together and sometimes we need to communicate but I haven’t spoken to him since November. Which, to tell you the truth, might be a good thing. I despise the man and I have to put on a happy face in front of the children as if I still like him. So I have to convince myself that it’s for the greater good, and then plan my day around being nice to that SOB when he comes around. Life is too funny. They say if you want to hear God laugh, just tell him what you have planned. Her stomach must hurt when she looks at me.

4. What is your best High School memory?

What good memory? That part of my life is in such a blur. I just remember being glad to get home and eat something.

5. What is your best memory in your adult life?

When my oldest (Tia) was born. She was two months before she started to gaze at me and then one day she actually smiled at me for the first time. The doc said it was gas, I beg to differ. When I have gas I definitely don’t smile like that at anyone, unless it is a rude person in the aisle at the supermarket. I let loose then, and then smile while walking past and watch them gag. Anyskittle, after she smiled at me, I felt 10’ tall that day. At that moment and to this day I adore that girl. And she IS a good girl!

Yes I am biased when it comes to my children but that is just like a momma!

Logically Speaking....

Two rednecks agreed that they weren't going anywhere in life and decided they should go to college to get ahead. The first redneck then went and saw an undergraduate advisor, who told him to take math, history, and logic.

"What's 'logic'?" the first redneck asked.

The professor answered by saying, "Let me give you an example. Do you own a weed-eater?"

"I sure do."

"Then I can assume, using logic, that you have a yard," replied the professor.

"That's real good!" said the redneck.

The professor continued, "Logic will also tell me that since you have a yard, you also own a house."

Impressed, the redneck said, "Amazin!"

"And since you own a house, logic dictates that you have a wife."

"That's Betty Mae! This is incredible!" The redneck was obviously catching on.

"Finally, since you have a wife, logically I can assume that you are heterosexual," said the professor.

"You're absolutely right! Why that's the most fascinatin' thing I ever heard! I cain't wait to take that logic class!"

The redneck, proud of the new world opening up to him, walked back into the hallway, where his friend was waiting.

"So what classes are ya takin'?" asked the friend.

"Math, history, and logic!" replied the first redneck.

"What in tarnation is 'logic?'" asked his friend.

"Let me give you an example. Do ya own a weed-eater?" asked the first redneck.

"No," his friend replied.

"You is queer, ain't ya?"

I thoroughly enjoy a good laugh. I hope you do too! This came by courtesy of my Professor.

A Moment of Encouragement

Hope is here, perfection isn't.

Have a great inauguration day everyone! I'm watching at home comfy in my bed. I am not a fan of old man winter! :D

Experiences in Life Know No Color

I am a big Tyler Perry fan. He has a wide audience around the world and I have also signed up for his daily emails. It’s always a pleasure to hear what is going on with him and I feel so honored to receive his letters when he wants his fans to know what is going on and coming up.

Of course, there is always going to be controversy surrounding successful people who have made a name for themselves and has virtually sprung up from nowhere. But I rarely pay any attention to rumors and don’t hold public gab fests, just private ones.

Anyskittle, I just wanted to share this recent email from Mr. Perry with you all. Enjoy!

Hey there,

Okay, I wanted you to know what's going on with me over the next few weeks
so that you can print a schedule and follow me if you'd like. Not as if
you don't have enough to do... (smile). I haven't done this is awhile.
I'll try not to bombard you with too much information, but I just wanted
to let you know what I'm up to in this new year.

I was once told someone that my movies only appeal to black people and no
one else. Now, I know that's not true. I know that even though I write
from an African-American experience and most of the time I have an all
African-American cast, that doesn't mean that other people from other
walks of life can't relate. I think that any human being who goes through
what we all go through can relate to my films (I saw "Slumdog Millionaire"
and loved it and I'm not Indian). I know and remember that when I'm
writing. But when this person said that to me they also said Europeans
would never relate, and that sat in my spirit. So I decided to come to
Europe to find out for myself because I always thought that my work was
universal.

Monday I started in Rome, and then on to Madrid, and will end this weekend
in London. So far all of us seem to be pretty much the same...(smile). We
love to laugh, we all have problems, we all want love, and we all have a
church in every country. And since these are the things I usually write
about, I don't see how that statement can be true. Do you? Hit the message
board and let me know what you think about this, and tell me where you're
from when you do, okay?

Here's my schedule and a few things that are going on:

I get back on Saturday, January 17th, just in time for the BET Honors
award show in which I am being honored. I think it airs February 9th. Now,
they don't know what they are doing bringing me to D.C. to the Warner
Theatre, my home away from home. You know I'm coming to have a good time,
don't you?

On February 12th, I will be hosting the NAACP Image Awards with Halle
Berry. Isn't that crazy? HOUSE OF PAYNE has been nominated for 4 awards, Alfre Woodard for THE FAMILY THAT PREYS and Angela Bassett for MEET THE BROWNS (the movie). It's going to be a fun night! On February 20th, MADEA GOES TO JAIL (the movie) comes out nationwide. Also MEET THE BROWNS (the sitcom) is on TBS every Wednesday. So if you missed it last week check it out this week. You'll see how funny it is. And it's funny at a time when we need to laugh.

And don't forget that Essence Magazine is on the shelves.

I'll talk to you later.

T.P.

Are You a Yankee or a Southerner?

Let's face it. We live in a racially charged world. Race is important to all of us Americans. We embrace it, love it, hate it, or we deny it.

However; culture is another thing. We all have a basic idea of what ethnic group we belong to, but most of us define our culture as 'American'.

But rarely do we see anyone embracing the fact that they are a Yankee or a Southerner, but believe me there are some who still do. So when I came across this quiz I had to put it up so that everyone can perhaps get an idea of whether they are a Yankee or a Southerner.

Well, are you? Take the quiz to find out! You'll be surprised by the results.

Raindrops on Roses, and Whiskers on Kittens...

If Julie Andrews could make up a line to fit in butterflies then it would have been done. However; I took the liberty to bestow this butterfly to those I think have the best blog ever!

Of course I give this award to you:

1. Speedcat at http://speedcathollydale.blogspot.com
2. Chris at http://athomeatlast.blogspot.com
3. Mom at http://meonlydifferent.blogspot.com
4. Sheri at (right back at ya girl!) http://xsherix.blogspot.com
5. Leon at http://leonbasin.net
6. Akilah at http://akilahsakai.blogspot.com
7. Cyndi at http://everydaybitch.com
8. Mr. Bill at http://ramblingon-bill.blogspot.com
9. Brenda Susan at http://brendasusan.blogspot.com
10. Willy at http://hillbilly-willy.blogspot.com
11. Christine at http://cmlk79.blogspot.com

Here are the rules:

1. Put the logo on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. Award up to 10 other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message for your awardees on their blog.

Of course I had to tag Sheri, because I love her blog. So please forgive me for having 11.

If you have been tagged twice, please forgive me. My eyes are blurring and stinging because I’ve been locked in my bedroom and on this computer since 1 P.M. My kids must feel so neglected by now. By the way…. I haven’t heard them in quite a few hours. I hope they’re still alive and kicking out there.

Now those of you not honorable mentioned, please don’t fret. You have a great blog as well; I just grew tired of typing. So feel free to grab this award. You deserve a butterfly as well.

Can’t you tell that the word for today is ‘well’? I gotta get out more. :}

And the Award goes to...

Again, I’ve been blessed to receive two awards from Sheri. Sheri is the best. She has a heart of gold. She is beautiful inside and out, and very gracious. I feel blessed to have such a friend as her.

And it couldn’t have come at such a better time. I just started class again this Monday (well yesterday) and I was feeling so rushed and unappreciated that I just couldn’t get motivated to do what I needed to do. So this morning I woke up, drank my cup of green tea, and checked my email. And there she was, bright as day, right on the top of all my inbox email with another heartwarming comment.

I feel so elated and tranquil now that I have to pass this one on to all the beautiful ladies out there. Here are the rules:

This award of course comes with a few rules!

Find the 7 most beautiful ladies that you follow.
Give them this award.
Hopefully it'll truly mean something to each and every one of them.
Don't be shy to give it to the same person!
Don't forget to tell them!

And here are the nominees:

1. Akilah at http://akilahsakai.blogspot.com
2. Christine at http://cmlk79.blogspot.com
3. Heather at http://greigbery.blogspot.com
4. Cyndi at http://everydaybitch.com

5. Chris at http://athomeatlast.blogspot.com

6.Mom at http://meonlydifferent.blogspot.com

7.Brenda Susan at http://brendasusan.blogspot.com

Of course I know that the rules say only seven people, and it is sooo hard to choose. So if I did leave any of you women out then please help yourself to this award. Because you are beautiful as well!

Yes, I’ve been tagging people like crazy so please forgive me if you get a tag and don’t like it. It’s just that I like you.

To the guys, you’re not forgotten. You’re beautiful as well. Well, you know…in a masculine kinda way!

Spreading the Love of Blogging One Tag at a Time

This Q & A came to me by Speedcat Hollydale courtesy of Mimi Queen of Memes who had the first blogosphere – wide Tag out for 2009.

MIMI DECREED: I took the liberty of shortening it a bit. And since it's my first meme of the New Year I've decided to TAG the entire universe. You knew that was coming sooner or later didn't you......and let's not, shall we, forget about the dreaded dungeon, my little peeps. (What is a peep anyway?) It's still there. I'm still Queen. And most of you are still in it. To tell you the truth, I'm gettin' a little tired of your endless whining about the food and service. You KNEW when you signed up for this gig (are you listening single guys?) that I can't cook, can't clean (are you listening??!) and can't keep a housekeeper. Let's get on with it, okay? Time's a wastin'!

Okay I know it is January 12, 2009, and I am a little late in getting this out, but what the heck! It’s fun to do and it also keeps me occupied.

However; I did embellish it and added a few different questions. I know this is a LOT of questions so whoever does do this blog, award yourself. ( See the sidebar for the award!)

• When was the last time you splurged on a gift for yourself? Dec 24, 2008. I bought myself a new stereo. With hubby’s money of course.
• Have you ever bought yourself a gift for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, a birthday or any other occasion and then wrapped it up and pretended it was from someone else? Nah. If I didn’t like it one of my kids would snatch it up for themselves. There are plenty of them to go around so no one is ever without.
• Have you ever sent yourself flowers, chocolates or anything else to your place of employment so it seemed as if someone else were sending you a gift? Nope! Such a waste of time! No one would believe it’s from the hubby anyway. He does cards.
• How often do you text message? Never, don’t know how.
• Is there someone you’d like to fix things with? My hubby. I still don’t know what’s got his underwear in such a twad.
• Are there any previous relationships you wish could have lasted longer? Yep, with the EX. Only long enough to drop kick his butt and park him, wrapped in duct tape in front of the nearest loony bin.
• When do you blow out the candles? On my next b-day. October 10, 2009.
• Do you give out second chances too easily? When dealing with the kiddies, I sometimes get real upset and count to ten before I even say anything to them. By the time I get to eight I’m pooped and wave them away for another chance to deal with them later.
• What’s the next big decision you will have to make? To get up and walk the ¼ mile to the mailbox.
• If you could cuddle with anyone right now, who would you pick, and why? Anyone or anything? If it it’s anything it would be my koala bear Lola. She’s stuffed! Anyone, would be hands down Trinity. She is the cuddliest two year old I know.
• Who is probably talking a load of crap about you right now? My relatives. Distant relatives.
• Who was the last person to REALLY piss you off? The ‘HUBSTER’!
• Would you ever want to be a supermodel? Nope. Don’t like makeup, skimpy clothes that show off the ‘jiggles’, and hot lights. I’ll feel like a blimp in melted makeup.
• Do you know what you will wear tomorrow? Yep. I’m very predictable. Grey sweats, grey T-shirt, and slippers and socks. Yep. And very mommafied.
• Your motivation for tomorrow? Counting down the days until LOST comes on ABC. 9 days and counting.
• What is the last thing you put your lips against? A hot cup of green tea.
• Have you ever gone two or more days without changing your underwear? Yep. Weren’t you a child once?
• Have you ever accidentally eaten an insect? Plenty. The biggest one was in some fresh lettuce that I got out of my garden.
• What serial killer do you find most disturbing? Jack the Ripper. If Sweeney Todd was real, he’d be on my list as well.
• Are you ever purposely irritating? Yup to the hubby. Just to get my own way. *slapping the back of hand* Bad Girl! Bad!
• What was the last thing you used you debit card for? To buy some cough drops. *Ahem* I have a tickle in my throat.
• Are you cheating on your significant other right now? If fantasying with being with a hot hunk like *ahem*… Dr. McDreamy then yes I am dreaming …er uh cheating.
• Are you contemplating cheating on your significant other right now? Nah. Too much lying and hiding. And I am not good at either.
• When was the last time you sat down and watched kiddie cartoons? ‘Tom and Jerry’ today at 12:00 P.M. on Cartoon Network. I’m a big kid deep inside!
• Do you sleep with one leg out from under the covers? Nope. I am a pure cocoon when I sleep. Yep wrapped up just like a butterfly ready to emerge for a new day. *snort* AS IF!
• Do you have any text messages that you would be embarrassed to let your mom read? Nope. Don’t text. Mom wouldn’t know how to find them anyway.
• How old would you be when you finally have kids/ or next kids? What are you kidding?!? My momma factory is closed!
• Have you ever thought about converting to a new religion? Nope. Wait now… to be a Jedi Knight would be totally awesome. At least that’s what the Brits say!
• Do you know anyone with the same first name as you? Yes, plenty. Don’t like them much however.
• When was the last time you went to church? Winter 2006. It was very, very cold that day.
• What song plays on your Myspace profile page? Myspace? What the heck is Myspace? I’m just getting used to this goggle thing.
• What were you doing the last time you were in the bathroom? Reading a magazine and ignoring the insistent banging on the door from a munchkin to “LET ME IN!”
• Have you ever had a Razr as a phone? Nope. Want one though.
• Which energy drink is better; Amp or Rockstar? Amp or Rockstar? Who the hell knows?!? I drink neither.
• Would you rather eat a Milky Way or eat a Twix? Both and hide in the bathroom with a magazine.
• Do you like that new shoe smell? What ?!? No. smells like dead leather. Wait, leather is dead.
• Do you like the taste of licorice? Yes!! I LOVE licorice.
• Would you ever walk around with a free hugs sign like the dude on YouTube? Just for kicks. I would do it if I was in NYC. No one would probably give me a hug though.
• Did you ever flip out on a teacher and walk out of a class? Nah. I flipped a teacher once behind my textbook though. I guess that doesn’t count.
• Do you/did you ever have dreams of being a rock star? Nope. An actress once. That’s because I can’t sing. I sound like a prepubescent boy with a cold.
• If vegetarians think it’s wrong to eat living things, why do they eat plants? Tie me up and paint my ass green ‘cause I have no idea.
• If you were to compare your real family to a TV family, which one would they closely resemble? ‘The Proud Family’ on Disney.
• What advice would you give to a new blogger? Hold on and hang in there. People will soon find out who you are and what you are all about.
• What imaginary pet would you love to own? A unicorn.
• What was your favorite book as a child? ‘There’s a Nightmare in my Closet’, by Mercer Mayer. I was a spooky child.
• Out of all the cars you owned which one was your favorite? My current one, my Expedition.
• What is the coldest place/state that you ever visited? Michigan
• As a child did you ever walk to school or carry your lunch? Huh?!? I’m confused. I did neither.
• Did you ever have such a busy day that you didn’t know whether to scratch your watch or wind your behind? Yup. Like today. I am suppose to be doing an assignment for class and can’t seem to focus on my studies.
• Ever rode in a hot air balloon? Nope. Scared of heights. Soooo scared of heights!!!
• Have you ever fainted? Yes once. Right after I had baby number one.
• What is your favorite quote? “The choices you make in life, dictate the life you live. To thine ownself be true”.

Okay, now for the fun part. For this task I will tag everyone. Everyone that I have ever read, commented on their blog or just simply visited. This way I won’t leave anyone out. Those interested, accept this tag and pass it on to anyone I’ve missed on my list.

I want to thank everyone who has visited me, has commented on my boring and crazy life stories, and even those who were brave enough to include me on their blog rolls. I am honored and humbled by your attention. You have my permission to copy and paste the pic located on my sidebar to place on your blog if you wish to put it on your blog, (once you finish the task of asking the fifty and eleven hundred questions). Take it and go for it! Have fun!

http://meonlydifferent.blogspot.com

http://fittoprintparttwo.blogspot.com

http://esotericperplexity.blogspot.com

http://speedcathollydale.blogspot.com

http://athomeatlast.blogspot.com

http://02luckydenvermint.blogspot.com

http://lillyslife.com

http://xsherix.blogspot.com

http://clevergirlgoesblog.blogspot.com

www.BERNTHIS.com

http://leonbasin.net

http://alikahsakai.blogspot.com

http://everydaybitch.com

http://grenouille713.blogspot.com

http://ramblingon-bill.blogspot.com

http://brendasusan.blogspot.com

http://curlytailsandtights.blogspot.com

http://mimiwrites.blogspot.com

http://newsomi.blogspot.com

http://mominreallife.blogspot.com

http://bensprblog.blogspot.com

http://hillbilly-willy.blogspot.com

http://cmlk79.blogspot.com

http://alliedearest.blogspot.com

http://girl-in-jeans.blogspot.com

http://libbyhasnothingtosay.blogspot.com

http://livinginthelandofpink.blogspot.com

http://stephdscribe.blogspot.com

http://greigbery.blogspot.com

http://randomthoughtsbykylie.blogspot.com

http://diabeticpoet.blogspot.com

http://roundoaktablev2.blogspot.com

*BIBI*

These Are My Reflections.

I was tagged by the awesome Sheri last week. It is until now that I am able to post something in relation to these questions because I had to think long and hard about what I was to say. Even longer when it came to question/request #2. I hate taking pictures.

That said, enjoy this Q&A. I enjoyed answering these questions and posting them for the blogging world to see.

1. Do you think you’re hot?

ANS: No, if the term is used to describe my bod; not at all! However; I am hot when I exercise. I am hot when the hubby rakes my nerves. I am hot when I see an injustice being done. It all depends on how you use the word hot.

2. Upload your favorite picture of you.

ANS: see pic.

3. Why do you like that picture?

ANS: It is my virtual representation of me. I can let go and show the world what a truly remarkable babe I am in the blogosphere. Actually, it is my avatar profile pic, but I would never wear those clothes for a photo! Maybe when I was a wild and wacky teen, but now I am a mom with a respectable family. (Who am I kidding?!?, I love clothes like that!)

4. When was the last time you ate pizza?

ANS: Two days after Thanksgiving. Extra cheese, black olives and mushrooms. YUM!

5. The last song that you listened to?

ANS: Kanye West’s’ song ‘Heartless’.

6. The last movie you watched?

ANS: ‘Bobby’ written and directed by Emilio Estevez. Heart wrenching and touching, and truly a remarkable film. Rarely do I promote a movie, but it REALLY tugged at my heart strings and I haven’t cried over a movie like that in a long time. It should have won the Oscar for ‘best picture’.

7. Last restaurant you ate at?

ANS: Crown Fried Chicken while I was in Philly. No wonder I haven’t lost any weight since I came back home.

8. Last book you fully read?

ANS: ‘At First Sight’ by Nicholas Sparks. I am a devoted fan of Nicholas Sparks. I own every book of his, and I have read each one. If that man decides to write on toilet paper and sell it on eBay, I will be the first to bid on it and hope upon hope that I win the item!

9. What are you doing right now, besides this?

ANS: Washing clothes and listening for the rinse cycle. I always forget the fabric softener!

10. What name do you prefer besides your own?

ANS: Diva! Not that I am one. But I like the way it rolls off the tongue and the way people say it. Okay;… it wouldn’t hurt to be one for the day either. ;-}

Now I am to tag 5 people who I want to answer these questions. Here they are:

http://www.akilahsakai.blogspot.com

http://www.lillyslife.com

http://www.everydaybitch.com

http://02luckydenvermint.blogspot.com

http://BERNTHIS.com

I do hope that you continue the game. I’m quite sure everyone would love to read what you come up with. I know I do! :-)

The Lemonade Award

I was tagged once again! :-)

Thanks to Sheri. I love your blog. You truly are a gem and exemplify a great attitude. I wish to one day be able to show the same gratitude in which you show everyday by embracing life.

ONCE YOU'VE BEEN AWARDED, THE RULES ARE:
1. Thank the person who was so thoughtful for giving you this award by linking their blog to this post.
2. Put the logo on your blog or post.
3. Nominate 10 blogs which show great attitude/gratitude.
4. Link your nominee to your post.
5. Comment them to tell them about the award they've won.

I will now nominate 10 people who show great attitude/gratitude. I don't mean to leave anyone out, because all of you mean a lot to me and exemplify great attitudes!

http://www.meonlydifferent.blogspot.com
http://www.speedcathollydale.blogspot.com
http://www.athomeatlast.blogspot.com
http://www.leonbasin.net
http://www.akilahsakai.blogspot.com
http://www.grenouille713.blogspot.com
http://www.ramlingon-bill.blogspot.com
http://www.brendasusan.blogspot.com
http://www.curlytailsandtights.blogspot.com

There you have it! I hope you all enjoy your weekend!

Bring on the 'da noise; bring on 'da funk!

The hubby is in a funky mood. As a matter of fact, he’s been that way since we came back from PA. Maybe his blood sugar is low, who knows?!?

What I do know is that we woman are not the only ones who PMS once a month.

But seriously, maybe he is missing his home town, or mom, or sibs. Personally I think he misses his old haunts and childhood friends. I’ve tried asking him but he has his imaginary wall up. And with a wall 6 feet tall, I won’t be climbing over it anytime soon to see what’s on the other side.

So right now I’m letting him have his own way, and when he wants to ‘disagree’ to prove a point, I just let him have at it as long as he doesn’t step over the line or push any of my buttons. Plus it’s amazing to see the looks on the kid’s faces as he attempts to argue without a willingly participant. Nothing says ‘cuckoo’ than a person caught arguing with themselves and answering their own questions as they do so. I never realized how noisy he can be when he is trying to prove his point.

However, I DID have a good time getting away for a while, but there really is “no place like home”. Thanks Dorothy!

While in Philadelphia, I did discover that:

I ) The stores, malls, shopping centers or what have you were very crowded. It was every man for himself, and people didn’t mind pushing you out of the way to get what they wanted. And I thought country people were aggressive!

II ) The F.A.O. Schwartz in Macy’s is overrated. My living room is bigger and has much more toys.

III ) Yes, the taller the buildings are the more clothes people take off and stand in the window. People of all shapes and sizes. I’ve had nightmares for the last 4 nights.

IV ) City traffic is overrated. There ARE some courteous people in Philadelphia.

V ) I haven’t realized that since I started this diet how greedy I really was. The variety of restaurants to choose from is overwhelming. My eyes actually welled up with tears outside of a ‘Crown Fried Chicken’. That is how much I missed eating things that I liked. (Crown Fried Chicken is like KFC, except tastier).

VI ) You can still see the division amongst most of the city dwellers and especially in their neighborhoods. Everyone seems to stick to their own part of town. Who draws these invisible lines anyway?

VII ) I wasn’t mugged while there. However; it was the holidays and everyone kinda sorta seemed to be in a jovial mood. I did keep my fingers crossed, and kept my eyes out for seedy looking people. (Which is hard, because with my paranoia, everyone looks seedy!)

VIII ) Yes, some individuals still do talk loud enough and everyone on the street can hear them. And their not even using a cell phone!

IX ) No jaywalking! People there love their crosswalks. Only they cross and walk in front of your ‘fast and approaching to catch the yellow light car’.

X ) Everyone likes a good party. It seems that the whole city was out to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Ok, so… there wasn’t no ball to drop, but the fireworks were still nice.

XI ) I never realized that my hubby was a true live comedian. He said something so funny to me that my stomach still hurts from thinking about it. He wanted me to DRIVE in Philly to the local market. ME? DRIVE? In a city that I am so unfamiliar with? Philly with their narrow streets and double parked cars?!? Hey, I’ll drive in NYC ‘cause it is at least familiar, but Philly? No siree, not this chick! Plus I have grown so used to trees and shrubbery being my landmarks that I’ll probably get lost going around the corner. PSST… the hubby hated being the chauffeur, but I enjoyed every bit of the ride.

XIV ) “DON’T BLOCK THE BOX” I’ve seen this sign all over Philly. Of course, ‘ole naiveté me had no idea what the heck that meant until the car in front of us blocked the box and some people walked past hitting the top his car. I told you Philadelphian's love their crosswalks!

So all in all, I really enjoyed the trip. I missed home a bit and noticed the tension level in my neck dissipated. Perhaps getting away for a while did do me some good. Or maybe it was the chauffeuring, or the restaurants that I couldn’t get enough of.

What ever the case, it was good to wake up in my own bed Saturday morning.

*PEACE*

Unresolution: Keep doing the things that I like!

This is the time of year when I think that people should make their New Year's resolutions, but that's only my opinion. However; I will do something better than that this year.

If you define a resolution it is usually something that you want to change about yourself, something you've done wrong in the past that you want to start doing right.

BOO-HOO-HOO!

I personally think that I would do better if I made unresolutions. I will make a list of things that I've been doing and I'd like to keep doing. Who needs all of that negativity just after the holidays? Times are rough, why would I make them any more harder for myself? Especially on the most favorite person that I adore the most in the world? ME!

Unresolution #1
I am always on the computer. I play games, blog, search, read, download, and educate myself on the many wonders of the computer. It is the best friend of mine among the electronic gadgets (right after the TV), and doesn't mind me abusing it and keeping it running for hours on end. Now, if only I could get it to talk back to me, I could stop bugging the hubby for some more stimulating conversations.

Unresolution #2
I talk to strangers. I wave to strangers. I talk and wave to strangers and they learn more about my life than my own momma ever will. I do think that I got this trait from my momma however, who always turned a small shopping trip to the corner grocery into a family reunion of sorts. Ohh, she always talked to the store manager, the cashier, and the bagger who always wanted a tip. I grew up in a strange environment. However; it would turn every grocery trip into a little party. A party with lots of strangers, a cash register, and plenty of groceries.

Unresolution#3
I make too little food at dinner time. Or so my children say so. I think they say that 'cause they want an excuse to be in the kitchen and cook some more after eating. Awww well, at least I never have dishes at night. They can handle that. I think.

Unresolution #4
I wear flat shoes at all the time. I've been known to wear flip-flops in 30 degree weather. That's how much I LOVE flats. The only time I am rarely 1/2" off the ground is when I am wearing sneakers. And I only pop those suckers on when I'm running after Tamara.

Unresoultion #5
I love books. I love to read. I love to buy and read books. Books of all shapes, sizes, and topics. They overflow my bookshelves and my nightstand and sometimes outta nowhere they climb right into bed with me, right on the hubby's side of the bed. Of course, when he asks me I tell him I have no idea how those 2 dozen books managed to climb onto the bed and make themslves comfortable on his side of the bed. To me, having plenty of books to read is like traveling without baggage claim. There will never be any pages lost as long as you have your trusty bookmark and reading glasses. If your into that sort of thing.

Unresolution#6
I don't hug my teens often. It like their is a hidden rule with teens simply stated; "give me space and don't hug me." I want to, but they keep giving me the eye whenever I approach them with outstretch arms. So now maybe you understand why I am always at the computer.

Unresolution#7
I don't talk to my immediate family on a daily basis. I have so much to do and so little time in which to do it, that it's hard to update them on a daily basis on the small, teeny changes that do happen in my life. But hey, when they do come and visit every so often, it's like a surprise party. And who doesn't like to be surprised?

Unresolution #8
I prefer to sleep alone most nights. Hubby thinks otherwise. So then if I am really not in the mood for touchy feely all night long then I start playing games 2 hours before bedtime. Hubby HATES the 'guess what mood I'm in?' game. Believe it or not it's a real turn off and I get to sleep alone. Well at least I get to wear flannel to bed and cuddle with my grey Koala bear without any funny stares.

Unresolution#9
I don't attend any church, synagoue or mosque. I believe I am a spiritual being having a human experience instead of a human being trying to be spiritual. I have nothing against religion mind you, I just prefer to worship on my own terms.

Unresolution #10
I sleep with my TV on. I know I don't get to see much with watching the back of my eyelids for a good 6-8 hours, but dang-it if I don't feel as if I know all of what's going on in the world after a good nights sleep. This way I figure, I never miss a thing and can't no one catch me by surprise. I already heard it on TV while I was sleep.

In the end, our own personal happiness is about figuring out what makes us feel the most like ourselves, and living that way. To hell with what anybody else thinks.

So when you are making a list of resolutions, please make some unresolutions as well.

I think it will be a happier New Year if you do!

Of course, that's only my opinion.