BIBI HAS THE LAST WORD

Things That Make Me Smile

2009-08-11T11:41:00.006-04:00

In this ever bustling, busy, always in a rush world, I sometimes find a quite moment to reflect on my good fortune and how wonderful life can be. It is then that I find the little, simple things that make me smile.

My children. All seven of them.

Next Wednesday is their first day back to school. It will be wonderful that they will finally end their summer vacation lounging in my house all day, and I can now sit for a quite moment to read, scratch, burp, blog, doodle, and watch TV without being disturbed. By day two I’ll be so bored and hoping upon hope that the bus driver will make a u-turn and bring my children back.

Its when they are at home and fighting, and picking with each other, or just being their own usual rambunctious selves I then grit my teeth and say:

“ONE DAY LORD, JUST ONE DAY TO MYSELF!”

Then again, I haven’t been talking to the lord lately, so when HE sees me on the caller ID, I think he hangs up.

Either that or he just smiles as if to say, ‘You can handle it.’

I’ll go for the latter.

My eldest son, as stated in earlier posts can tickle my funny bone and make me laugh.

The diva shines in her own special way.

Then there is diva #2 who has now come into her own and has surprised me with holding down a job this summer, and she has really blossomed into a beautiful young lady.

Then that leaves Tisha who is twelve, Taj who is nine, Tamara who will be seven soon, and baby Trinity who is three.

Out of those four, it is Tamara who gives me the most reflection on my days when I need a smile.

LAST SUMMER

TAMARA falling off of the steps in her haste to help with the final touches in the flower garden in the front yard: “OWWW! Waaaaah, I cut my knee!!”

ME running to aid my poor clumsy child: “What happened? How’d you fall? Are you okay?”

TAMARA clearly the drama queen as her little ‘scrape’ has now become a very big deal: “Aaaaaaaah! I’m gonna die!”

ME clearly used to the dramatics: “Shhh now. You’ll be okay. Look it’s just a scratch, not even a cut. Why don’t you go inside and get a band-aid? There’s a good girl. You can stand. I’ll help you up the stairs. I got the door. Okay. Now go in your bathroom and look under the sink cabinet

and there is a green and white box full of band-aids. Find one or two and put them on your cut.”

TAMARA pouting: “I want a big band-aid.”

ME clearly tired of the dramatics by now but trying not to sound too impatient: “You can have a big band-aid. Just pick whichever one you want.”

TAMARA clearly all better now that the words ‘band-aid’ and ‘whichever one you want’ was mentioned: “Aren’t you coming in with me? Can you wipe it for me?”

ME: “You’ll be okay girl. Just go in there and find a band-aid. You can use a piece of tissue to wipe off the little bit of blood. Go ahead now. You’ll be okay.”

TAMARA walking away without a limp.

***** FIVE FULL MINUTES LATER *****

ME happily engaged in planting some lavender bushes in my psychedelic array of flowers, shrubs, and herbs. I turn around to the sound of “I FOUND IT.”

TAMARA standing on the bottom step of the front staircase proudly showing off her big band-aid.

A band-aid the same size and shape of a Kotex maxi pad without wings.

EARLY SPRING THIS YEAR:

TAMARA engaged in a conversation with her older brother at the kitchen table one morning: “You know what Taj, one day you and I will be married and have houses of our own.”

TAJ clearly not in the mood to talk about the long off future with his little sister: “I’m not marrying anyone.”

TAMARA: “Well some woman will catch your fancy and make your heart tingle. She’s the one that you’ll marry. And then soon you’ll be engaged in talks about how many children you want, and what college they’ll go to.”

ME clearly intrigued at this little six year old munchkin and her tendency to sound just like her momma.

TAJ clearly annoyed now because he wants to be done with this talk so that he can play the Wii: “Yeah, yeah. Look I’ll have kids. Lots of kids and I’ll bring them all to your house when I’m tired of them.”

TAMARA intrigued as well: “Oh yeah, how many?

TAJ: “Uh, about 10 or twelve.

TAMARA sucks in her breath sharply, eyes nearing bulging out of her head as she stares at her brother while holding her spoonful of cheerios precariously over the edge of her bowl. “Huh?!?”

ME nearly choking on the piece of toast that I almost sucked down my throat at Tajs’ response.

TAJ happy that he finally got Tamara to shut up for once since they began eating: “Yup about ten or twelve will do. I gotta get a big house though.”

TAMARA: Silence

ME: Stunned silence

TAJ drinking the last of his milk and burping in response to our stares. “What about you, how many children are you gonna have?”

TAMARA recovering from the shock of being told that she will one day be the aunt to ten or twelve nieces or nephews from one brother: “I don’t know Taj. I guess I’ll just borrow some of yours.”

LAST WEEK

TIA searching for some tool to finish a necklace that she was repairing: “Help me find it Tamara. I seen you with it last. I told you again and again not to touch my things.”

TAMARA sitting on the couch engrossed in another mindless episode of Spongebob Square Pants: “I didn’t have it I told you! Why you always blame me for things?!?”

TIA clearly losing patience: “Cause you always LOSE MY STUFF!”

ME trying to diffuse the situation: “Alright, calm down Tia. It has to be somewhere. Did you check the garbage? You know that is a favorite hiding place of Trinitys’.”

TIANA coming into the kitchen; our family meeting place, clearly looking for something as well: “Anyone see the tweezers? I think I got a splinter in my hand.”

TAMARA not looking from the TV screen to address Tiana: “I think I saw those in the room somewhere.”

TIANA: “Where?”

TAMARA shrugging her shoulders: “I don’t know.”

TIANA: “Well could you go get ‘em?”

TIA: “First she has to help me find my wire cutters so that I can finish this necklace. I have to have this done by tonight.”

ME sensing that things are going to heat up real soon: Okay, okay girls. Take a breather and calm down. Tamara turn off the TV and find the wire cutters. Tiana come with me. I think I know where some tweezers are.”

***** SOME TWENTY-SOMETHING MINUTES LATER *****

ME: “Tia did you find the wire cutters?”

TIA sounding like she is ready to explode: “NO!”

ME: “Well, join the club. I haven’t found any tweezers either. Tiana you alright?”

TIANA: “Yeah. It’s no biggie. It’ll eventually come out if I can’t find the tweezers.”

ME: “Don’t be silly. It can get infected!”

TIANA shrugging in response.

***** MINUTES LATER *****

TAMARA: “I found it.”

ME: “Found what?”

TAMARA: “The tweezers.”

ME: “I thought you were looking for the wire cutters?”

TAMARA: “Can’t find ‘em.”

ME: “Alright, bring what you got. I’m in the kitchen.”

ME turning to reach for the tweezers that Tamara has found as she walks in the kitchen, only to discover that she has found these gigantic pair of pliers with yellow handles and a scary doodad on the side.

ME, TIANA, and TIA can’t stop laughing at Tamara’s frown as she doesn’t understand what did she do that was so darn funny.

It’s these little moments that makes me smile. And grateful that I have a tribe of seven kids to keep me entertained.

Mom, The Wolfman and Me

2009-08-01T10:00:00.002-04:00

I am going to tell you all a secret. Something my mom doesn't even know about.

I used to have the biggest crush on Joaquin Phoenix. Notice the emphasis on the words 'used to'.

Just to give you a little history lesson on my crazy and innocent crush.

As a little teen bopper in the late 80's, I used to LOVE his brother River Phoenix. I thought he was the cat's meow. Saw all his movies, read every article about him. Watched him live at the Oscar's and prayed hard that he would win. I even considered stalking him in L.A. when we lived in Cali. It was closed to being obsessed that I could come.

Then he overdosed in front of the Viper Room in Hollywood, and that was all she wrote.

Years later I saw Gladiator and fell head over heels for the tyrannical Commodus. The acting was chilling and I was all about bad boys then. (That would explain the EX husband).

Antyways.

I watched and bought all of his movies, joined his fan club, read every coverage on him from People magazine to GQ, and I even went so far as to attempt to write him a fan letter. I never mailed it.

I even considered putting his name on my license plates. They would have looked like this:

JOAQNPX

The hubby wasn't going for it. I don't blame him. Now.

It was this photo that did it for me last January.

Joaquin + Mountain Beard = SAY WHAT?!?

Okay what is it with actors who have such a brilliant career, and they want to throw it all away to pursue a music career. Yeah I know we've heard it all before, and my crush (even though innocent) died the moment I saw that picture.

Call me shallow, but I can't comprehend the former actor who almost won two Oscars and won one Golden Globe as a rapper. Can you?

He won a Grammy for the soundtrack 'Walk The Line', and now he wants to be a rapper. And guess who is rumored to produce his record? P. Diddy.

Yes people I know, the news is old about Joaquin Phoenix wanting to be a rapper. To prove that he is serious, BIL Casey Affleck is recording a documentary about the whole transition. A rapper who started his career rapping to such titles such as 'I Want A Refund', and droning on and on and trying to rhyme 'boom' and 'room' over and over again. Yes, rapping world beware, there is a new kid in town!

It's not even good rapping like Eminem, but it sounds like something put together on a paper napkin at the bar, two minutes before going on stage.

Yes, this twice nominated Oscar boy of Hollywood used to make my heart go all a flutter, but not anymore.

It's just scary.

And my mom still doesn't know.

Home Is Where the Heart Is!

2009-07-24T10:03:00.010-04:00

Hello bloggers! Long time no see. I 've been a busy bee of sorts, so I will intend to update you.

The DIVA and her little bro are home. Back from their long extended stay up in New York. They really enjoyed themselves and couldn't wait to go out and visit with their friends instead of update their momma on what they did in the 'Big Apple'.

I started classes again this summer on July 6. (gulp) I am taking a Political Science class (the teacher already hates me), and a beginner Spanish class (the teacher is lovely). It is going on week 3 and I already have one quiz due this week for my Political Science class.

The political arena is touchy. I am not a very political person, but I am strong in my convictions and my principles, and do not waver from my views unless human life is at stake. That's when I shut my mouth, and let the big dogs scrap it out!

Antyways

The hubby and I are on a little break from the therapy sessions, and will resume by the end of the month. (snort) Who ever said married life was easy should be strapped to a hard back chair in a room alone, and made to listen to Vanilla Ice with the volume at full blast.

The other children on the BIBI home front are doing okay. Some can't wait until school starts, others want to bum around all day in front of the stupid box and burn their brain cells with as much useless info that they can fill their brain cavity up with.

I on the other hand watch the most educational things that we mommy's find so amusing.

Monday thru Friday 10 AM - Live with Regis and Kelly. My grandmother calls them the Gracie and George of our time. Except they are not married. I just watch to see if they will ever get my email and call me to talk live, on the phone with them so that I can win a prize. Shameless right?

Monday thru Friday 11 AM - The View. Barbara Walters and her posse always make me laugh. I hope Elizabeth drops that bundle soon so that we can see the little bundle of joy!

Tuesday and Wednesday 9 PM - America's Got Talent. Who does not watch that show for all the bad auditions?!?

Tuesday 10 PM - Tori and Dean. Love Tori. Love Dean. Ahhh... What the rich do when they have time on their hands.

Thursday 9 PM - She's Got The Look. Women over 35 looking sexy and doing their thing. There is hope for me yet!

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday - If I am not carpooling to a friends house, sewing, doing homework, studying, cooking, washing clothes, or fixing a crumpled kids spirit 'cause they did not get what they wanted that week, then I tune to TCM for some old b&w movies.

Don't you just love the weekends?!?

Happy Independence Day!

2009-07-04T07:38:00.005-04:00

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY EVERYONE!

ENJOY THE FIREWORKS!

A Home of Our Own

2009-07-04T07:04:00.003-04:00

I recently watched the movie “A Home of Our Own” starring Kathy Bates and Edward Furlong. Such a touching movie and that mother was strong as an ox to keep her family together. I won’t spoil the plot by telling you what happened in case you do happen to see it. I only mentioned it because it reminded me of my childhood and the constant moving that we did.

Bear with me. I digress.

Well, before leaving the urban jungle that we called home in Brooklyn NYC I always knew that my father was a shady character. When I was thirteen, my father decided he made enough enemies in NYC after living there all of his mean life, so he decided to move my mom, me, my three sisters, and my three brothers to the state capital. Yup. That’s right. Washington D.C.

I apologize in advance if I offend anyone reading who is from the D.C. area, but that place is off the chain! I learned so much about drug paraphernalia I am surprised that I didn’t become a pharmacist. I would have made straight ‘A’s’.

I also watched a neighborhood kid get shot, numerous drug busts, and one too many fights. After three weeks in that place called home, my mom decided that it was too much trouble to go outside, so we spent the next year and a half watching all of the action from our second story windows. I vaguely remember that we didn’t watch too much television around this time either.

After we were evicted from our gray painted peeling and in desperate need of a paint job house called home, we moved in with some friends in Baltimore, Maryland. My mom had the last of the Hann tribe in D.C. which made the grand total of children that my mother had an even eight. Yup. Five girls and three boys. She was only three shy of the total that my father had. He has eleven kids total. At least, that’s what he told us. But who knows.

Yes, with eleven children under his belt my papa was a rolling stone.

Anytways.

We stayed in Maryland for a total of eight months before heading to that great big state that always shines. Yup. Californ-i-a!

I was fifteen by then and would be sixteen in a couple of weeks of arriving there and it was not pleasant circumstances. We lived in the high desert and we were not aware that it only rained but once a year in the Mojave Desert and we just missed the annual downpour. I was missing the East coast by the time I was sixteen and three days.

After almost two years in the desert we made it back to the East Coast. My father liked driving and it took us almost a week, and he was the only driver. And I didn’t feel sorry not one bit for that mean scoundrel. He was a mean wheel man with caffeinated blood that accelerated his hatred. I was so happy to reach my grandmother’s house.

My grandmother has lived in her home since 1971. A year before her first grandchild (that would be me) was born. She has the same phone number and I’ve know her Queens address since I was six. It was the place that I called ‘home’ away from our multiple ‘homes’ before I married and got my own.

Now when I look at it, we moved so much that I began to look forward to the next road trip that would bring us new adventures, a new place to lay my head, and new friends. I never had a problem making friends, just a problem keeping them.

But we finally settled in VA in 1990, after a long extended-stay at my grandmother’s. I call this place home now, with its southern atmosphere, slow-paced patron’s who take the time to smell the roses (or who drive slow enough to watch them grow), and that everyone knows your family, and you know theirs. All of my children were born at the same hospital, they have the same pediatrician for the last 16 years, we visit the same library, and my children check out the same books now that I picked out when I was a teenager starting off here.

It’s a wonder I don’t get ‘town fever’ for staying put in one place for so long. I guess home IS a place where you lay your hat. Or in my case a Yankees cap.

I am still a New Yorker deep inside.

Bear with it!

The Sweetest Thing

2009-06-28T23:43:00.000-04:00

Awarded again. You guys are to much and are too sweet! I truly feel blessed to have such great friends. The first award comes from Akilah, Gemmerzz, Sheri, and Lucy. It is called the Awe-summ award. With this award you:

List 7 things that make you Awe-Summ and then pass the award on to 7 bloggers you love. Make sure to tag your recipients and let them know they have won! Also link back to the Queen that tagged you.

Hmmm... seven things that make me Awe-summ are:
1. I love charities
2. I love and respect my family
3. I trust far too much but can be trusted.
4. I love the finer things in life like sunsets, relaxing moments, and laughing with friends.
5. I love to stand up for those who can't speak for them selves like; children and animals.
6. I love to make blogging friends and to make them smile.
7. I love to be part of the solution and not the problem.

The seven people that I will send this award to are:
Akilah
Sheri
Ashley
Mom
Gemmerzz
Lucy
Christine

Mommy award

This award was given to me by Lucy. She is undoubtedly a great blogger and always on her game. I can never surpass her talent and she has just the words to comfort you or make you laugh. You go girl! Check her out today!

Rules of the Award:

•Admit one thing you feel awful about involving being a mom. Get it off your shoulders. Once you've written it down, you are No Longer allowed to feel bad. It's over with, it's in the past. Remember, you're a good mom!

I feel awful when I feel bored being with my children. I love interaction with my children but sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming when you are with them 24/7.

•Remind yourself you are a good mom, list seven things you love about your kids, you love doing with your kids, or that your kids love about you. These are the things to remind yourself everyday that you Rock!

I rock because:

1. My kids do have fun whenever we are together. Whether we are making playful videos, or playing a card game, we have fun.

2. My kids make me laugh. Especially when they argue with each other. It's like watching a hilarious sitcom.

3. My kids love when I make a 5 course meal with plenty of dessert for after wards.

4. I love playing Wii fit with kids. They love showing me up but I can always beat them in the walking aerobics game. Nobody has matched my stride yet!

5. My teenage girls love when I do their hair. They won't really go out of their way to say 'Thank You', but I can see their hidden joy.

6. I will go into my girls room and organize it just to spend some quality time with them. About nine hours of laughing, talking, and throwing things away that we found hilarious to even consider holding onto.

7. I love snuggling up with my kids and watching movies with them on an impulse. We don't have a scheduled family night, just spontaneity that we feel when we all need some quality time together.

Send this to five other Mom's Of The Year that deserve credit for being great moms and remind them that they are the best moms they can be!! Remember to send them a note to let them know you've selected them, and add a link to the person who nominated you.

Here are my five nominees:

1. Akilah (my sexy mama)

2. Mom ( my Canadian mom)

3. Christine (my other Canadian mom)

4. Lilly (my Australian mom)

5. Lucy ( My suburbia mom)

This award was given to me by Sheri. No rules or strings attached. Anyone who wants it can take it because every blog that I came across is truly enchanting to me. Plus, Tinkerbell is truly a cutie!

So take it and have fun. I love you all!

Schools Out and I Don't Intend to Stand Around and Twittle My Thumbs Either!

2009-06-28T07:06:00.009-04:00

I apologize for being such a bad blogger of late. I promise, now that my semester of school was officially over this past Friday I can now pay attention to more important things! =^)

First things first, I have to post a BIG thank you to some of you for giving me awards. You are the best!

Second I have to write SOMETHING that has been plaguing the news of late. I don't like to talk about death, but my conscience won't let this one go away. (You are too bossy dude, go away!)

Third, I have two new followers. Thank you guys for being my friend. I totally enjoy the extra company.

Fourth, everything on the BIBI home front is doing okay!

The Diva and her little bro (my very articulate son) are in N.Y with my little bro. Rock on kids, school is not for another 7 weeks!

My kids go back to school in August. Something to do with making sure we get in early before the snow falls and we miss weeks and weeks of school. (Hey! I say the earlier the better! Like August 19th early )

Anytways, the hubby and I are doing okay. He has sleep apnea and sounds like Darth Vader when we go to bed now that he has to sleep with the CPAP mask on every night. But hey! it's a great idea for some role playing before I put my nightcap on. ; )

The baby, my little Trinity, turned 3 on the 24th of this month and I am exhilarated. This is the first time in a LONG time that one of my babies turned three and there is not another bun in the oven. Thank you Doc B for making sure that my momma factory stays closed. (no chastity belt required, besides its too late to observe some chastity now.)

I have only 5 children at home right now and I have no idea what to do. Why do I feel like a part of me is missing since my two oldest kiddies have been gone for two weeks now? Little bro will probably let them loose in about a week or so.

Until then, I'll take Tiana (14), Tisha (12), Taj (9), Tamara(6), and Trinity(now 3), to the community kiddie park for some quality time. Ohh! my creative mind is in overlaod.

Average Jane

2009-06-02T22:00:00.008-04:00

Just recently my sis and I were talking about celeb actresses and I mentioned that I love any movie with Anne Hathaway. My sis then replied:

"I DO NOT like her, she is so average looking!"

Which I then replied:

"Huh?"

We woman are all average Jane's'. We can multitask like no other. We get the job done. We can be sometimes very emotional, while laughing hysterically at the absurdness of it all. Those of us who have kids know the emotional ups and downs of having to think for them, you, and your partner while trying to do laundry, cook, and catch up on gossip with your girlfriend(s).

I love being an average Jane. Who doesn't?

I think that the average look escaped most of the Hollywood crowd though. Anyone see Janice Dickinson lately? Especially on 'I am A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!'

One word: 'Collagen'.

Question : 'Why?' Boy the tabloids have nothing to talk about apparently. (Neither do I)

Unless you are Halle Berry and are blessed with good genes, a beautiful bod, and a gorgeous boyfriend. It doesn't help that you are one of the hottest celebs in Hollywood either. (The girl can look gorgeous just signing a book).

But then again, there is the character Edna (played by John Travolta) in the movie version of 'Hairspray'. John Travolta is a scream in that film, and I had a soft spot in my heart for Edna, the overweight, loving wife/mother, trying to run a business at home to avoid any social interaction.

Hmmm... sounds a little like me after baby number 7 as I tried to hide from view.

But in all seriousness, hubs if I ever get that big and decide to stay at home, please just say my big sparkly moo-moo gown looks good on me. It'll do wonders to set the mood in the house.

Love, Growth, and Maturity

2009-05-25T23:48:00.005-04:00

I was looking through some old cards of the hubby and mine. We will be married for 10 years in August. Looking back on when we first married I have to say that we did have a whirlwind romance.

I was working at a giant retailer at the time, and he happened to see me working in the electronics department. He eventually started a conversation and we went from there.

I was getting over a BAD relationship with the first husband, trying to raise my three girls and one boy, and working on earning my first degree in college. (Going back to school after a eight year hiatus bites, but I got through it!)

He comforted me, consoled me, and reassured me that I was a strong women who was doing the right thing. I fell head over heels. We were married after two months courting.

The children were in the wedding and really loved having a 'dad' around again. I enjoyed having someone around to talk to and help me with the kids. Some would say I was on the rebound but I never felt as if I was going to give up on the relationship until we were married for about five years.

We never reached the seven-year itch before the real fights began. But we survived it and we are now smiling at each other, making goggling eyes at each other and talking 'dirty' when the kids aren't around. I think the therapist has done her job, but we will still continue to see her until we feel certain that we are absolutely on the right track.

While looking through some of the cards, our wedding cards, anniversary, new additions to the family, millions of birthday cards, and dozens of father and mother day cards, I found some with letters in them.

Have you ever wrote letters to your loved ones trying to explain the content of the card as well as the meaning behind the card?!? Well, if you are the BIBI that is a lot to write down. Being that I AM the talkative kind, I once wrote a letter with a beautiful card that was EIGHT pages long!!

Whew! Was I that into myself then?!?

Endlessly trying to explain why I snapped at him and why he needs to be patient with me and I've had such a shitty childhood that's why I am so messed up. Then spending a page or two apologizing for being me, and asking him to be patient with me because I was sooo screwed up and blah, blah, blah, blah, and blah.

I now realized that a marriage is about two people who share the same common interests and that one person cannot always see life as a victim. I was always making myself into the victim, one who could do no better because of my past. But my past does not define me anymore, because I am now the victor of my own destiny. I make my choices, good or bad, I decide to do better instead of waiting for someone to tell me that I have changed and that I am good now. I no longer acknowledge that little voice in my head that puts me down and tells me that I am no good.

I am good, not perfect, but good. I care, I love, I feel, I embrace my emotions,I laugh, I raise my beautiful children, I strive hard to make my loved ones comfortable, and I work hard at making sure that they are loved. I am me embracing life, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, whether I am sick or healthy. I am me and it is pretty absolutely gucking freat!

Happy Awards Day!

2009-05-22T22:30:00.000-04:00

I know there really is no such day/holiday. I just thought that it was a catchy title!

Boo-hoo to me for posting this sooo late! Sorry Sheri!
But the good news is I was awarded an award by Sheri. Actually two awards! She is too generous!

Sheri is the consummate blogger who entertains, is humorous and is always keeping the reader up to date on the latest scoop in the news. She is a better read than People Magazine.

The first award is:

With this award I have to list five sexy things about myself:

1. I love to wear sexy lingerie to bed. ( That will explain the seven children).
2. I have curves that say there is more of me to love. ( I do belong to a group called the 'Curvaceous Club').
3. My cheekbones are my best features on my face. ( Some say my eyes, I beg to differ).
4. All summer long I wear flips and keep a pedicure. (Virtually impossible for me to do in the winter.)
5. Some think I am weird. I believe that weird is sexy because it is unique.

I give this award to these sexy people:
Akilah (you said it, I believe it, that settles it!)
Brenda Susan (you are beautiful and you know it)
Lilly (All Aussies' are purely sexy to me)
Speedcat (did anyone ever tell you that making people laugh is so sexy)
Heather (obvious you are too sexy for words)
Carma (you had me at belly button bling)
Lucy (living in the suburbs will do that to you)
Tina (we momma's are so sexy in our own way)
Ashley (obviously you and the hubs are the cutest on the blogosphere)
Kelly (honest and telling life like it is is sooo sexy)
Gemmerzz (you love life and show it)
JannaBee (being a friend is always ozzing sexiness)
Rachel (raising kids is so sexy)
Sheri (back at you babe!)
Kylie (yeah you girl)

The other award is the Vespa Blogger Friendship Award!

The following friends who are nominated for this award are:
Akilah
Carma
Speedcat
Mr. Bill
Lilly
Sheri
Mom
Christine
Lucy
Tina
Stone
Ashley
Cyndi ( I know that you said 'the end' to your blog, but you are still my buddy)
Charles
Kelly
Janna Bee
Rachel
Julie
Jessica
Mrs. GB

Thank you again Sheri! I am so sorry for taking so long to post it. I hope that this is recognized as better late than never! You are the best girl. Love ya!

To all of you nominated for these award, it is well deserved and I am honored to have such an opportunity to be able to give it to you! If you already have the award I am sorry, but you were nominated again.

I just love you that is all!

=)

Farewell

2009-05-13T15:06:00.004-04:00

I want to take this time to say goodbye to my beautiful great Aunt Clara who lost her battle with a brain tumor on May 8, 2009 at 11:01 PM.

Also called a glioblastoma multiforme, my Aunt Clara was diagnosed with this type of fast growing; the most malignant form of a brain tumor in the summer of 2008. Late summer of that same year she had her first surgery which was done with much apprehension from the medical crew, but everyone was hoping for a success story. After the surgery, my Aunt Clara had chemo, and she was able to enjoy life for a while.

By Thanksgiving of last year it came back. The doctors opted for more chemo therapy and juggled with more surgery on her tumor invading her brain. My Aunt Clara then had another surgery and this one left her weaker than before she was operated on. But that wouldn’t stop her from hosting Christmas that year at her house, even though it was done while she sat on the couch in the living room the whole time. She was always a gracious host.

By January the tumor began to metastasize on to her central nervous system, and the doctors ultimately thought it was beyond their control to try another surgery. Her body couldn’t handle another one and she gave up on the chemotherapy as it made her too sick.

The last week of March was the last time that she would go to the hospital and leave with any good news. Soon after she was placed in Hospice and we all waited. Soon my Aunt Clara couldn’t sit up any more because the cancer began to invade her spinal cord and she was steadily losing muscle tone.

The next week she couldn’t speak as her vocal cords were ravaged by the cancer. She would still respond to verbal communication when you spoke to her by nodding her head and keeping eye contact.

Soon after she began to lose her eyesight as the cancer infiltrated her blood vessels in her eyes and they became bloodshot red. She still would reach out to you if you spoke to her. This Friday she lost her battle with her enemy who wanted to take her from her family, friends and loved ones. My Aunt Clara is survived by a son, my cousin Kevin, a daughter-in-law Vida, and two grandchildren Raynard and Zarah. She also left behind her six sisters, one of whom happen to be my grandmother, who stood by her side and made sure that her ‘little’ sister was always comfortable. My Aunt Clara was 71 years young.

Of course I can not forget her love of her life, her husband, my Uncle Charles who stood by my aunt for more than 50 years. They also retired together traveling to China, Europe, Italy, numerous trips to Disneyland with the grand kids, and countless trips to VA, whenever I had a wee little one. She was the most generous woman in our family always organizing family reunions, birthday parties, holiday get-togethers, and just plain picnics whenever one of us wanted to get together, especially if we came from out of town visiting one another.

My mother said that my Aunt Clara had a ‘long arm’ which is a Persian saying meaning someone who is very generous. And that she was. Sharing her boisterous laugh, advice and love I will miss my Aunt Clara greatly. She was always a comfort to me whenever life got me down especially whenever I was going through many prepubescent and teenage trials and tribulations. With a great big smile on her face and not a seemingly fake bone in her body, I was always glad to see my Aunt Clara at family functions or reunions.

Her funeral will be held this Friday at 12 PM in Westchester County, New York. Surrounded by loved ones, friends and family I am hoping that she will feel the love that we will bestow upon her that day as we celebrate not her death, but the life that she led and left behind for us all to remember.

Farewell my sweet sweet aunt. You will be surely missed.

May you rest in peace!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2009-05-05T20:07:00.005-04:00

May 5, 2009 marks the 147th Cinco De Mayo.

I remember distinctly, when I was a child, some of my Spanish friends celebrating this holiday, but I vaguely remember why it was celebrated.

Personally I believe that it should be an American holiday as well, because 4,000Mexican soldiers smashed the French and Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City, New Mexico on the morning of May 5, 1862. Kind of heroic huh?!? To know more, read here.

I wondered if I am qualified to celebrate. Some of my ancestors were Portuguese. :D

Come and Meet Mr. Whazitooya!

2009-04-27T10:00:00.001-04:00

I digress.

The hubby is getting on my nerves. Again. Nothing new, he is always getting on my nerves. But this time it is more serious. In the last two weeks of thought of the 'D' word at least five times.

No not 'damn', 'dummy', or 'dead as a door nail when I get through with you', but divorce!

Here's why.

Anyone who has been reading this blog knows that the hubby and I do go to counseling/therapy. Ms. G has recently begun to see us every two weeks instead of every week because she thought we were making such good progress. She thought.

Now, this coming up session I am going to tell her that we need to come back every week so that the hubby can begin to learn to use his resources that God gave to him at birth.

It's called a piehole. It's the thing one inch right above your chin, and when you stand up straight it sits right under your nose.

He uses it to stuff it with food, talk/yell at the kids, talk to the boss, cuss at the TV, and to call loved ones when they are too far away to visit. He uses it for everyone except me. I get the silent treatment.

Me addressing the hubby when he comes in from a long day at work: "How was your day"?

Hubby with back turned: "Ok".

Me frowning: "What was that"?

Hubby talking in a higher octave than necessary: "It was okay".

Me silently fuming with arms crossed and everything.

Hubby using the bathroom and making it smell like something died in there.

Me with one can of air freshener sprayed directly at the bathroom door as the hubby comes out of the 'stink room': "Ummm... you don't smell that"?

Hubby ignoring me as he clears his throat and shrugs his shoulder.

Me: "Well"?

Hubby quietly: "Well what"?

Me: "Don't you want to talk about your day"?

Hubby: "It was okay".

Me: "And what else? And in case you have forgotten I've been holed up in the house with three teens who right now hate me because I made them go to bed after Jay Leno's' monologue and are probably plotting my demise right now as we speak, a 12 year old who picks on her little brother ALL DAY LONG, a six-year old who runs all day even to go so far as to kick in her sleep, and a two year old who loves to wear make-up to bed and screams when I try to remove it. So please, no wise cracks. Just some honest to goodness adult conversation".

Hubby blinking at me as I try to catch my breath.

Me staring back at him as I try to regain my composure.

Hubby makes a beeline for the bathroom to take a shower.

Me sighing as I now realize that it is going to be another non-talkative lonely night.

**************************************************************************************

I really don't want to make the TV my best companion at night as I turn to it to have some normalcy of conversation. Or spend another night fuming in my journal and pressing down so hard on the paper I can read what I wrote six pages ahead. But what else is there to do?

I think the hubby forgot that when we agreed to counseling for our marriage we were to get better at communicating, not shutting each other out of our lives.

I also realize that he does work two jobs and is under a lot of stress and maybe making conversation at 11:30 PM when everyone is just beginning to look at the back of their eyelids is probably not the best time to converse.

But then what is?!?

So Dorable!

2009-04-22T07:00:00.005-04:00

I was given another award. I am so late in acknowledging it. I apologize Mrs. GB. But thank you Mrs. GB. Check her out everyone, she is a joy to read!

I am so happy that I have been awarded by posting my thoughts, feelings and intimate life that I hold so dear and private to myself. I feel so rewarded for just having had made friends and have them cheer me on, cry with me, laugh with me (or at) and congratulate me on anything that I am doing good on. I feel so blessed and very fortunate that I have all of you blogreaders who are so kind to even take your time and read a little bit of what's going on in my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

*Ahem Ahem*

Now that I have given you all of your due praise I now will award the very people who have made my blogging experience so enjoyable. The rules are to:

Include the award logo in your blog or post.
Nominate as many blogs which you like.
Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.

So my fellow nominees are:
1. Akilah
2. Sheri
3.Ashley
4. Gemmerzz
5. The Mind of Mom
6. Rachel
7. Tia
8. Mr. Bill (no offense Bill, but I find you adorable)
9. Janna Bee
10. Tina
11. Kylie
12. Heather (right back at ya babe!)
13. Carma Sez
14. Lucy
15. Kelly
16. Stone
17. Mimi Lenox
18. Jessica
19. Chris
20. Lilly
21. Cyndi
22. Christine
23. Brenda Susan
24. Sara
25. Nilsa
26. Sandi
27. Julie Rose
28. Brenda Lou
29. Speedcat Hollydale
30. Deutlich

Well, I hope those of you reading enjoy the blogs listed. I hope my nominees like the award. And all of you have a good and happy EARTH DAY!

Until then...

Tri-UMPH!

2009-04-19T15:02:00.004-04:00

And when you do give life a try, give it some UMPH! I know I can use a little of it myself!

Thanks for hanging with me guys. Will post soon.

Watch as the drama unfolds....

Friday Favorites #3

2009-04-10T20:27:00.006-04:00

I have now officially joined the fan club of Janna Bee. She is a mom ( like me), sweet (more than me), is funny (I am trying), and loves her hubby (well three out of four is not too bad).

Just joking people! I love the hubby. As you can see, he is my favorite subject. LOL!

Antyways, I have the real deal here and what has made my week thus so far!

Monday

I fiercely felt like I was suffocating and then realized that I was having a good all panic attack. Yeah Monday!

Kids got on the bus okay, tried to get on the computer (failed 'cause of the lovely eyes), wanted to exercise but the treadmill yelled at me, so I did the next best thing. Slept until midday and then ordered in for pizza from Domino's for dinner. Kids are so grateful and sooo easy to please!

Tuesday

Cried with the hubby as we watched little girl who was killed in CA mother cry as she tried to talk to Matt Lauer on the Today show. We haven't shared an intimate moment like that in a long time. I then realized that you can be very intimate just sharing a tearful moment together. We prayed for all the little boys and girls who are missing their moms and dads, and for all the moms and dads whose little ones are still missing.

Got on the computer and learned that Mrs. GB gave me an awesome award. Thanks girlfriend!

Watched DWTS without any pain, then caught 'The Biggest Loser' and cried. I so felt so guilty that I didn't exercise with Jillian.

Kids went to bed with no complaints. Hubby stole into bed at exactly 11:30 PM and didn't snore until 2 AM.

Wednesday

Made an appointment with Dr. W for my eyes. Was very nervous but in too much pain to put up a fight. My insurance wouldn't cover the exam, but the receptionist assured me that I will be reimbursed by the insurance company since that insurance is not being covered for any vision eye care in the area. Love the country!

Watched the History channel and learned the real significance behind Passover. I love learning something new everyday!

Watched a new episode of 'LOST' and thoroughly enjoyed it. Minus the washcloth, just sat back and relaxed. Help was on the way!

Thursday

Got my meds and new glasses prescription filled. Applied the magic eyedrops and instantly felt better. Hubby was there supporting me every step of the way. He went into work late because of me, but he is such a dear.

Thanked Oprah as I caught the last half-hour of her show with Dr. Laura Bergman as she talked about explaining masturbation and pleasure to your daughters. Essentially, it was all about the "sex talk". I will be blushing for a whole month as I remember my Divas' face of horrorification as she listened to something that I have NEVER thought to discuss. Kudos to Oprah. You now have mothers everywhere like me wondering will they get 'those' questions.

Watched 'CSI' without any pain, and 'Harper's Island'. Felt grateful that my eyes were getting some relief and I was able to watch TV without any pain.

Slept well that night in more than a month.

Friday

Grateful to see that Virginia Tech is now ready to open Norris Hall after the deadly shooting that claimed the lives of sooo many innocent people. I am just glad that hubby decided to take a semester off when the shooting did occur. My condolences to those who lost loved ones in that unnecessary massacre.

Watched the news and was relieved to see that the economy or the stock market seems to be leveling off somewhat. Okay, but some kind of news is better than no news.

And how did your week go? Enjoy the Easter weekend everyone!

What I See and Have to Say About Blogging

2009-04-10T20:18:00.004-04:00

Okay I have to confess what has happened to me for the last few weeks and why my blogs have been sparse and far from being constant.

As you all who read and do follow, you have seen that I have been very diligent in posting to my blog at least three times a week daily. I also would comment often and a lot! That excluding the month of February when I posted everyday for 28 days.

Not bad, but still I haven’t come close to the reason why.

I now have to wear glasses.

For the last 8 weeks I’ve had a hard time staying on the computer for more than two hours at a time. So I would be on the computer and would try to comment on as many blogs as possible, shut down the laptop, take some meds for my headache, get back on, eyes burn to the point where I feel as if someone has taken a candle to my eyes, shut down the computer/laptop, rest then do it all over again.

Tiresome right? Wait it gets better!

Two weeks ago, I couldn’t look at the computer before my eyes would tear and burn and I would have an incredible headache. This led to my seeing an ophthalmologist yesterday since I last seen an eye doc in 1993.

So I officially have a very lazy left eye that is causing my right eye to work harder because it is not pulling its weight around here. So watching TV was a chore where I had to always have a hot washcloth handy to put over my eyes during the commercials.

I didn’t dare drive at night for fear I’d go over a ditch and land in a pasture decorated with cow poo-poo.

And I so badly wanted to read a book besides ‘New Moon’ but the large print selection at the library did not look too tempting.

So there you have it, the excuse of the week (or the last two weeks). Now I can type in bed, in the kitchen, in the commode if I want to thanks in all to these wonderful eye drops courtesy of Dr. W and some wonderful painkillers that make me feel as limp as a noodle. I’ll get my wonderful glasses next week soon as they fill in the prescription. Oh YAY me!!

Sorry if the sarcasm is extra heavy today. I don’t like celebrating the fact that my age has caught up with my eyes.

Tuesday Smile: Then the Fight Started...

2009-04-07T20:53:00.003-04:00

Then the fight started...

My wife and I were watching Who Wants To Be A Millionaire while we were in bed.

I turned to her and said, "Do you want to have sex?" "No," she answered.

I then said, "Is that your final answer?" She didn't even look at me this time, simply saying "Yes."

So I said, "Then I'd like to phone a friend."

And that's when the fight started....

*********************************************************************

I asked my wife, "Where do you want to go for our anniversary?"

It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation.

"Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!" she said.

So I suggested, "How about the kitchen?"

And that's when the fight started....

**********************************************************************

Saturday morning I got up early, quietly dressed, made my lunch, grabbed the dog, and slipped quietly into the garage.

I hooked up the boat up to the truck, and proceeded to back out into a torrential downpour.

The wind was blowing 50 mph, so I pulled back into the garage, turned on the radio, and discovered that the weather would be bad all day.

I went back into the house, quietly undressed, and slipped back into bed.

I cuddled up to my wife's back, now with a different anticipation, and whispered, 'The weather out there is terrible.'

My loving wife of 10 years replied, 'Can you believe my stupid husband is out fishing in that?'

And then the fight started ...

*********************************************************************

I tried to talk my wife into buying a case of Miller Light for $14.95.

Instead, she bought a jar of cold cream for $7.95.

I told her the beer would make her look better at night than the cold cream.

And then the fight started....

*********************************************************************

A woman was standing nude, looking in the bedroom mirror.

She was not happy with what she saw and said to her husband, 'I feel

horrible; I look old, fat and ugly.

I really need you to pay me a compliment.'

The husband replies, 'Your eyesight's damn near perfect.'

And then the fight started.....

*********************************************************************

I took my wife to a restaurant. The waiter, for some reason, took my order first.

"I'll have the strip steak, medium rare, please."

He said, "Aren't you worried about the mad cow?""

Nah, she can order for herself."

And then the fight started...

*********************************************************************

My wife and I were sitting at a table at my high school reunion, and I kept

staring at a drunken lady swigging her drink as she sat alone at a nearby table.

My wife asked, 'Do you know her?'

'Yes,' I sighed, 'She's my old girlfriend. I understand she took to drinking right after we split up those many years ago, and I hear she hasn't been sober since.'

'My God!' said my wife, 'who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?'

And then the fight started...

*********************************************************************

After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social Security.

The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver's license to verify my age.

I looked in my pockets and realized I had left my wallet at home.

I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I would have to go home and come back later.

The woman said, 'Unbutton your shirt.' So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair.

She said, 'That silver hair on your chest is proof enough for me' and she processed my Social Security application.

When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the Social Security office.

She said, 'You should have dropped your pants. You might have gotten disability, too.'

And then the fight started...

*********************************************************************

When I got home last night, my wife demanded that I take her someplace

expensive... so, I took her to a gas station.

And then the fight started...

**********************************************************************

My wife was hinting about what she wanted for our upcoming anniversary.

She said, 'I want something shiny that goes from 0 to 150 in about 3 seconds.

I bought her a scale.

And then the fight started...

*********************************************************************

My wife sat down on the couch next to me as I was flipping channels.

She asked, 'What's on TV?'

I said, 'Dust.

And then the fight started...

Tehehehe... You all have a good one and enjoy!

So Real, I Must Be Dreaming!

2009-04-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

My little "ladies"

Ever had one of those moments in life that felt so real, looked so real, that you just had to be dreaming?!? I did.

The hubby and I like to go for walks. And since we like to walk but not on the country roads, we usually take a ride into town, walk the track at the University and then perhaps do some shopping afterwards before going home.

Well we did that this particular day, and decided to leave Tia home with the children. No biggie right?!? She always does some baby-sitting on the side to earn a few bucks.

So, the hubby and I are walking and enjoying our little time together. Usually I have my cell phone on and with me as I walk, but this particular day I decide ‘nahhh, the kids never call me so I’ll leave it in the truck’.

An hour has passed and the hubs and I are still walking. Little did I know my cell phone is ringing off the hook with Tia trying to reach me.

The hubby and I decide that we don’t need to go to the store, and take the scenic route home. I never once looked at my phone to see if the children had called or anything, I am just enjoying life and just peachy.

I get home and my front door is wide open, and Tamara is in the doorway crying. My momma sense kicks in and I immediately begin to open my door as the car is still rolling up the driveway. I would have jumped out as well if the hubby hadn’t grabbed me.

I storm into the house, ready to take on the world when I notice that all of the kids are gathered in the living room and crying. I immediately see that Trinity is not there.

“Where’s my baby?” I ask, looking at all of them and they immediately begin sobbing like they feel guilty.

I panic and look at Tia, who is by the way crying silently and looks the guiltiest of all.

“Mom, Trinity is gone.”

My mind takes a moment to register as I try to process the word ‘gone’.

“Like gone to heaven gone or just decided to walk off into the forest as if trying to runaway. And remember answer correctly because she IS only two years old”.

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t know who he was. He said that he came from the American Beauty contest and that he was to pick her up and take her to the station in Richmond and that …”

I put up my hand to silence her. Strangely quiet and calm I don’t realize that I am shaking. The hubby is still outside twinkling with his truck and has not come in yet. I know this because I hear this low rumble that reaches a pitch in tone, then levels out, then reaches a pitch, then levels out. Strange sound to take notice of when your child has been potentially kidnapped but hey that’s me, taking it all in.

By this time I am stuttering to make sense of my words; “Wwwhat, wwhen, and how did this happen?”

I look up and notice that my eldest son is gone and that Tamara is gone as well. I shrug guessing that they couldn’t handle it and went into their room for privacy.

Tia by this point is crying uncontrollably and I can’t console her. I can’t move. The hubs is still outside and I look out the still open front door and wonder where in the heck is my truck?

Tia comes up behind me, and has miraculously stopped crying and says; “He also took your truck.”

I slump to the floor as I have been hit with a six-pack. MY TRUCK! Who on God’s green earth would want to steal my truck? It never did anything to anybody, let alone break down and cause anyone any harm. MY TRUCK?

The hubs shows up in the doorway by now and has my cell phone in his hand.

“You missed your calls.”

“My truck is missing along with Trinity.”

“What?!?”

“I said, that our reliable daughter here let some creep into our home, let him take Trinity on the pretense that he was from some ‘Reliable Baking Company’, and he must have stole my spare key from the bureau in the vestibule when no one was looking and decided to take my truck instead on his way out. Which by the way is weird because his car is nowhere to be seen.”

“Oh.” He looked like he was in shock. Couldn’t tell because he decided to pick up some fruit and bite into it at this point.

I then realize the magnitude of the situation and realize that my baby, my little girl is missing! Missing.

I then scream, and fall out flat on the floor. I come to and realize that Tamara is laughing. She is watching a home video tape of Trinity and laughing at the dance that she is doing. I look at the TV screen and immediately start to cry.

Meanwhile, I am crying and wanting to move but can’t and wondering all at the same time, ‘Where in the heck is the Police? The hubby should have called them by now.'

Nope he hasn’t. And that sound came back. The low rumble that goes up and down in pitch like someone is grumbling in the back of their throat.

I go outside for some fresh air, and then decide to hop in the truck to go look for Trinity. I call out to her: “Don’t worry baby, momma is gonna find you!”

I look all over the small town, crying and looking, looking and crying, picturing my daughter crying and holding and out her hands in some strangers arms waiting for me to come rescue her.

I start to drive back home as the sun sets and pull up into my driveway. There is a limo parked in our driveway and the children are surrounded around it. This guy comes out of the limo and begins to pat my son on the head. He looks strangely familiar but I can’t place him.

I park the hubby’s truck and realize that Trinity is standing with the children. I am so happy I forget to put the truck in ‘park’, I felt like a small kick in my back, and I then hop out of the truck to go see who this person is as well as figure out how my daughter came back home.

I walk up to the limo asking myself ‘who is this person?’ ‘Is he the one who stole my baby?’ ‘He is very, very familiar whoever he is’.

I get a closer look as I come upon the limo and see that the person standing in front of me is Edward. Edward as in ‘Twilight’s’ Edward.

He turns to look at me and says “Hey how’s it going?”

I had no time to reply before the rest of the Cullen family popped out of the limo all dressed in their baseball gear as if ready to play a game. And they have Jacob with them as well.

I soon forget all about Trinity missing, my truck is gone, and that the hubby for some strange reason is now making me upset because he won’t stop snoring.

“You can come on in Edward, but the rest of you have to stay outside.” They don’t look so surprised that I have said that and just go into the neighboring field and start to play ball. Without any thunder or rain clouds. They don’t need it, their lousy ball players and don’t strike not one ball.

Edward is standing in my doorway and telling me: “Come on let’s watch a movie.” I look at him and want to say ‘You know what, lets invite Emmet in and see if he wants to see the movie as well.’ But I don’t say it because I don’t want to hurt his feelings and let it be known that I think Emmet is cuter than Edward, but ah well!

Okay, I admit it I am not the brightest light bulb in the ceiling light fixture, but when I awoke from this dream I just knew that it was real. So real that I had to pinch the hubby and get Trinity’s foot out of my back as I quietly got out of bed and on the computer to jot this all down before I forgot.

Now, do you think I am weird because I dream so vividly? You decide!

Tuesday Smile: Life Lesson

2009-03-31T23:14:00.000-04:00

You don’t have to be mom to enjoy this one.

Brian invited his mother over for dinner. During the course of the meal Brian's mother couldn't help but notice how beautiful Brian's roommate, Jennifer, was. Brian's Mom had long been suspicious of the platonic relationship between Brian and Jennifer, and this had only made her more curious.

Over the course of the evening, while watching the two interact, she started to wonder if there was more between Brian and Jennifer than met the eye.

Reading his mom's thoughts, Brian volunteered, 'I know what you must be thinking, but I assure you Jennifer and I are just roommates.'

About a week later, Jennifer came to Brian saying, 'Ever since your mother came to dinner, I've been unable to find the beautiful silver gravy Ladle. You don't suppose she took it, do you?'

Brian said, 'Well, I doubt it, but I'll send her an e-mail just to be sure.'

So he sat down and wrote:

Dear Mom,

I'm not saying that you 'did' take the gravy ladle from the house, I'm not saying that you 'did not' take the gravy ladle. But the fact remains that One has been missing ever since you were here for dinner.

Love, Brian

Several days later, Brian received an email back from his mother that read:

Dear Son,

I'm not saying that you 'do' sleep with Jennifer, I'm not saying that you 'do not' sleep with Jennifer. But the fact remains that if Jennifer is sleeping in her own bed, she would have found the gravy ladle by now.

Love, Mom

LESSON OF THE DAY - NEVER LIE TO YOUR MOTHER!

Thanks Sparkle1978 @ Sparkpeople.com

Friday Favorites #2

2009-03-27T14:52:00.003-04:00

Well, it's my second week of Friday favorites with Janana Bee. We are to post things that got us through the week. Friday is the day of the week to take pause and say, "hey, these are the things that got me through the week this far and thank goodness the weekend is right around the corner."

Monday

I am grateful to the hubby for waking up at 5:45 AM to take care of the little ones for school. He dressed them, fed them, and packed their lunch, and then walked them to the bus stop to catch the 7 AM bus to school.

It would have been a very difficult task for me, as I was sleeping off the monthly cramps. How cruel Mother Nature can be!

Tuesday

Thank you Amazon.com for sending me ‘New Moon’ by Stephenie Meyer. The 48-hour wait was long enough. I now have to take my finals by the end of the week before I can delve into you and figure out the continuing plot to the Twilight trilogy.

Wednesday

Took the risky trip to Richmond with the hubby driving and trying to keep him awake. You know the story. I’ve had a bad dream since that we had crashed with hubby behind the wheel. That’s for another post.

Thursday

Grateful that my child (Tamara) is getting the hang of school. With only seven weeks left to school, it’s a relief to see that my threats and warnings of “no Wii time” have paid off.

Grateful also to the many people who have read and responded to my posts this week. You all are too kind!

Friday

Took my final and aced it. Got a 96%! That was for one class, the other is due by Sunday. Uh yeah, it’s an internet class. Can you see me going to campus now with so much to do?!?

Glad to know that my muscles can still hold the big girl frame up when challenged by Jillian on the Wii. Ha! And she thinks that she is so tough.

*groan whine* I ache all over!

I hope that you all enjoyed your week as well. Have a great weekend!

Get In. Sit Down. Shut Up. Hold On.

2009-03-26T10:06:00.006-04:00

Well, I did it again.

I went to therapy and let the hubby drive again, against my better judgment. Against ALL better judgment.

The morning started out like any other morning. I packed lunch, hugged the kids, ate breakfast, showered, and dressed for our 10:30 AM appointment.

Needless to say, I wanted to leave at 8:30 but we left at 9:03.

Hubby started the truck up while I added the finishing touches to my face. You know, a chewed up black eyeliner pencil, baby lotion, and Vaseline for lip-gloss. A momma can never find what she is looking for when the kiddies ransack her bathroom and leave her the bare necessities.

I finally got in the truck, and we took off. The fact that we took off at a pace of a NASCAR driver should have hinted me on to what was to lie ahead, but I was concentrating on keeping the hubby awake whilst he drove.

15 minutes into the drive, I blinked all of my eyeliner off, my face felt like I rubbed sandpaper on it, and I licked all of the Vaseline off trying to keep my tongue in my mouth as the hubby swerved around cars to try to make up for lost time.

I felt like I was on a bad rollercoaster ride. I tried to make it more interesting so that the hubby wouldn’t begin to nod off.

Me: “Why are you swerving? I’m getting nauseous just trying to keep in time to the swaying.”

Hubby: “I’m trying to make up for lost time.”

Me: “No duh. But you can drive at a reasonable speed limit and let some of the cars past you. This is not a race.”

Hubby immediately slows down to 55 MPH. The speed limit is 65.

***driving, driving, driving***

Me: looking at my watch as the time rolls by and we haven’t reached the next county yet “You know the speed limit IS 65 MPH.”

Hubby immediately speeds up. He then fiddles with the radio and turns to ‘The Steve Harvey Show’.

We listen contently as a girl named Mikka is interviewing bachelors for a date in Chicago, fully paid for by Steve Harvey.

***driving, driving, driving***

Me: “Whoa! Slow down and let Shamu of the highway get past you. Damn trucks always hogging the road.”

Hubby: “What did you call that truck?”

Me: “Shamu. You know like the whale at sea world somewhere. I don’t know. He’s big and annoying and he practically ran us over trying to get to that next stop sign.”

Hubby: Chuckling “Your silly.”

Me: sourly “I’m glad to be of some amusement to you.”

***driving, driving, driving***

Me: “Pew whee, do you smell that?”

Hubby: “Yeah. The farmers must be out early fertilizing their land.”

Me: voice muffled as I try to talk with both of my hands covering my nose and mouth “You would think that they would have found a better use for cow poo poo than the fields near the highway. Don’t they realize that people actually drive past here and don't want their nostrils insulted?”

Hubby: “That’s not cow manure, it’s human sludge.”

Me: voice muffled as I am still covering my nose and mouth “Na-uh. Stop joking around. They wouldn’t use human waste for farmland.”

Hubby: looking at me as if I just came from the planet bobble head “Hon, this is Amelia County. Welcome to human sludge wastelands U.S.A.”

Me: “Oh my God!” Momentarily forgetting to cover my mouth and nose, and quickly covering them back up again.

Hubby: “You know I heard that it is a good fertilizer for your hair as well. Want to stop and get some?”

Me: I am now using the bottom half of my upturned sweater and both of my hands to cover my nose and mouth as the smell now permeates through the vents in the truck. “Ha. Ha. And ha! I’m so glad that you find yourself sooo amusing.”

Hubby: pouting “Well I’m just saying…”

Me: “Why? I don’t think that joking about.. WHOA! Slow down! You almost hit that car!”

Hubby: “Too late. I’m way ahead of you.”

Me: “But you did almost hit them.”

Hubby: “Well, then he should watch where he puts his car in front of someone then.”

Me: “Why can’t you admit that you almost hit that car?”

Hubby: Turning to me as if his neck is possessed by the devil with a frown on his forehead to match “Please let me drive!”

I back off, because he IS driving. Plus I want to get there in one piece.

***driving, driving, driving, driving***

Hubby is beginning to nod off.

Me: “Dude, watch the road.”

Hubby: “I’m alright, I’m alright.”

Me: grumbling under my breath “You NEED to watch the road.”

Hubby: “Wanna drive?”

Me: “You betcha damn skippy.”

Hubby: sighs as he shakes his head awake and shifts in his seat “You know I can drive.”

Me: “No argument here.”

Hubby: yawning. Hard. With his mouth open.

Me: “Pew whee!! Did you eat cheese this morning?”

Hubby: “Yup!”

Me: mumbling under my breath as I roll down the window “Good God have mercy.”

***driving, driving, driving***

We finally reach our destination, and I announce that I would drive home. The hubby shrugged me off. I took it as a yes.

*** ONE HOUR LATER***

I race to the truck and get in the drivers seat. The hubster didn’t have a chance.

I adjusted the seat, fixed my mirrors, popped in my Whitney Houston Greatest hits CD.

Hubby sat in the passenger seat, leaned back and folded his arms across his stomach.

I drove out of the parking at a respectable speed and made it to the highway without a sound from him. The only sound between the two of us was the sound of Whitney singing.

***driving, driving, and more driving ***

I am now singing along with Ms. Houston, and trying to match her high notes. I am content that I don’t sound so screechy. I am in my own little world and the hubby is silent so I assume that he is sleeping. I look over at him.

Nope. No luck. He is still awake, gripping his knees and frowning.

***driving, driving, driving ***

20 minutes from home and the hubby is still silent. I am still singing along to Ms. Houston and making good time on the highway.

I then look over at the hubs and notice that he is sitting up in his seat gripping his knees and frowning into the windshield.

Me: “What’s wrong?”

Hubby: “I was trying to sleep but I can’t.”

Me: “Why can’t you?”

Hubby: “I liked your nagging this morning better than this singing of yours.”

Damn, I thought I sounded good.

I Heart Twilight

2009-03-22T19:45:00.007-04:00

Okay since it's release yesterday I have officially watched Twilight 6 times!!

I never thought I would be a Twilight fan, but here I am with my giggly teens and their friends watching the most famous romantic movie since Titanic.

Well, not Titanic, but you get the picture.

The movie is enchanting, mysterious, funny, romantic and scary. Being the scaredy-cat that I am I never thought that I would watch this movie. In my past post I mentioned that I was terrified of vampires since I was made to watch them with my mean relatives once upon a time.

And it was a simple black & white movie depicting a vampire with razor-sharp teeth, black cape, with an exaggerated walk towards his victim. I couldn't even watch 'Dark Shadows' when the new version came out in the nineties. Do you remember the old version? YUCK!

Well, I am now cured of my simple phobia and will soon be reading the second book in the series 'New Moon'. I had the hubby pick up the book 'Eclipse' from the library yesterday, because I thought that it was the next book in the series thanks to my hearts in her eyes daughter who couldn't tear her eyes away from the movie as I asked her: :"Come on tell me what happens next? What's the next book in the series? Does Bella turn into a vampire for real? What becomes of Edward? You really think Jasper is cute? OH GOD!!"

Antyways, I should be getting my new book from Amazon.com Tuesday. So if you don't hear from me in a while, its because I'm reading the book, then watching the movie, then reading the book, then watching the movie...

Well, you get the picture.

Friday Favorites #1

2009-03-20T18:43:00.009-04:00

Okay, I am new to this Friday Favorites by Janna Bee. You are to list the things that got you through the week.

For me lots of things can go wrong but I am grateful for when things go right! The things that do go wrong can go suck!

I'm not know to be very subtle.

Antyways, things that pulled me through this week:

Monday
Had a interview with the Division of Child Support Services for the EX to pay for his children's rather expensive taste in life. Thanks for looking like a fool in front of Mrs. H (the interviewer), who saw how very dedicated you really are to seeing that your children are taken care of. Thanks for not having all of your paperwork done, no ID, and no compassion. This makes my job so much easier.

Tuesday
Thanks Jillian Michaels' for giving me a good workout on the Wii. Thanks treadmill for the 2 hour walk. I burned 804 calories and my thighs STILL hurt from the workout. Also Jillian, thanks for kicking butt Tuesday night on 'The Biggest Loser'. Women like you so totally rock!

Wednesday
Thanks clerk at the local 'Game Stop' for selling me the Wii fit program. It's the best thing to happen to my children. They've stop watching so much TV and are now exercising, watching TV and having fun! Yeah Baby!!

Thanks to Ashley for giving me a 'Sisterhood Award'. I am so excited I could jump up and down, yet I have to settle for blinking my eyelashes. They are the only things not hurting on me from my workout today.

Thursday
Thanks Dr. D for not telling me that my daughter who runs track, has a fatal disease when we visited your office Thursday morning. A couple of ice packs did just the trick for her sore knee. Yet, a sore knee is no laughing matter to a teenager who takes running very seriously. Now if only I can tell my knees to stop aching whenever I mention 'Treadmill'.

Friday
Thanks headache for keeping me in the bed. I sooo needed the rest!

Join Jannabee and grab the graphic to post your Friday Favorites!

I'd Like To Thank The Academy...

2009-03-18T22:26:00.015-04:00

I don't feel sassy. I don't look sassy. I don't sound sassy. And I definitely don't have the sassy look.

Yet somehow, somewhere, someone figured out the inner sassiness in me and has awarded me accordingly.

Ashley, is a sweetheart, and a true image of sassiness. She is bold, honest, colorful, beautiful, and a compassionate person with a true heart for her fellow human man (in this case woman). With an upbeat attitude and always showing her gratitude for life, I truly feel lucky to have her as a blogging friend!

Make sure you check her out and leave her some love!

When I think of a sassy person I see a talkative brassy person not afraid to speak her mind. Notice the emphasize on the word her? Can you see a man being sassy?!?

(Picture what Miss J. Alexander from ANTM
would say right now)
Never mind, Miss J. is clearly too picturesque for words.

I just want to take this opportunity to thank Ashley right now and mention the ten bloggers who I believe are sassy as well.

Welcome to the sisterhood!

Akilah Sakai
Kylie
Sheri
Cyndi
Lucy
Kelly
Gemmerzz
The Mind Of a Mom
Carma Sez
Tina

Okay ladies out there, blog your favorites and tell them that they were tagged by you and that you love their attitude/gratitude about life.

Any ladies who were not tagged personally by me, this means you as well!!

Spread the love!

Sharing

2009-03-15T00:18:00.006-04:00

Can we talk?

I am a hypocrite.

I always admonish my children for not sharing with each other. I am always reminded of the word ‘sharing’ as one of the first big words that I learned while watching Sesame Street on PBS as a child.

Yet sharing is the word today that eludes me as I sit here trying to write this post to you all.

I think I share a great deal of what goes on in the BIBI household. There is literally never a dull moment, which I am about to prove to you all right now.

About two weeks ago my daughter Tisha, had a seizure. I panicked and took her to the hospital the next day. It was a small seizure mind you, but it was a seizure nonetheless. Three days later I took her to St. Mary’s hospital for an EEG. The results were negative, and I was told to just watch her for the next couple of weeks.

Well, I am still watching out for any signs of a seizure, but none have manifest. While I am doing this I also had a little exchange of words with my SIL. She is not the brightest bulb in the pack, as her manner speaks for itself, but when she approached me about the children (my son and her two sons) fighting, I had to let her know in no kind terms to leave me the f*$# alone with such nonsense.

And the children weren’t fighting with fists or sticks, but just fooling around and pushing each other around and exchanging heated words. As much as an eight, six, and three year old could muster up from their imagination. Have any of you ever called another kid ‘Butt-naked’ and thought it was a bad word? That’s as far as their extensive vocabulary would let them be imaginative. *SIGH* to be a kid again.

Next, the daring rides that I bi-weekly undertake to Richmond with the hubby when he is sleepy and insists on driving. Yes, we are still going to counseling, but our therapist said that we are making good progress and she now just needs to see us every other week, instead of every week as like in the beginning. I tend to disagree, but it’s her call. I hope she realizes the sacrifice that I make just to come see her.

Let me tell you, that one hour and thirty minute ride is not for the weak stomached. He literally nods off behind the wheel and says that he is okay. I won’t dare ask him to let me drive, I’m too busy crumbled up into a ball in my seat so as not to watch the beautiful world pass me by before my premature and imminent death, praying to God which whom I haven’t had a conversation with all week.

All of this on top of having a snow storm that knocked out our power for a full 24 hours, leaving us cold, hungry and without telephone service. The only comfort was that I could call my friend on my cell phone in Florida and ask her “how is the weather down there?!”

My children were out of school for the whole week while my poor little town shut down for the eight inches of snow that we received, only to go back to school on Friday. The school board has now decided to extend the school year until May 22^nd. That is something to look forward to. Another whole week of silence so that I can relax with a good book and do more laundry.

But despite all of the exciting things that have happened in the last three weeks I did get a new stove and decided to redecorate the kitchen. The local diner at the truck stop is going to love seeing us all come into their joint everyday for dinner for the next three to four days. All eight of us, who have only managed to get a bowl of cereal and one of those microwaves snacks until dinnertime. Now I know how those people feel on ‘Spice Up My Kitchen’ on HGTV.

Well, now that I am done sharing my exciting past weeks, I’ve got to finish my assignments for school and prepare for finals coming up in the weeks ahead. I think I’ve done my fair share of sharing. No pun intended.

A Woman's Week At The Gym

2009-03-12T09:17:00.006-04:00

I've told you all about my quest to lose weight. I've joined Sparkpeople in early December 2008 and have made some pretty nifty friends. One in particular whose name is Sparkle1908.

Spark gives us these numbers at the end of our names as if to identify us. Like for example; my sign-in name is BIBI071 on Sparkpeople. Being that I am not born in '71 I don't know how they came up with that number.

Antyways.

Here is her recent experience at the gym. I fell on the floor laughing. I hope you do to!! :-D

Dear Diary,

For my birthday this year, my daughter (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try.

I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear. My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.
________________________________

MONDAY:

Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess - with blond hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!!

Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring! Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week-!!
________________________________

TUESDAY:

I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT-!! It's a whole new life for me.
_______________________________

WEDNESDAY:

The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot.

Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for that early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying.

My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair monster. Why would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other stuff too.
_______________________________

THURSDAY:

Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late - it took me that long to tie my shoes.

Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny lady to find me. Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank. _______________________________

FRIDAY:

I hate that cow Belinda more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it.

Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?
________________________________

SATURDAY:

Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her voice made me want to smash the machine with my planner; however, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.

________________________________

SUNDAY:

I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter (the little demon) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds!!!

Diva In The House

2009-03-07T11:30:00.005-05:00

“A Diva is a female version of a hustler…”

Excuse me Mrs. Jay-Z, but I think a Diva is much more than a person who will sell or get anything by questionable or aggressive means. (Thanks Webster)

Some may say a Diva is a spoiled biatch who wants to get her way and only her way by either manipulating or ordering people around solely because she thinks she is God’s greatest gift to man and the only one in existence.

Sounds like something my son would say about his sis Tia.

She is a princess, and her heart is in the right place. She is very helpful around the house. Baby sits whenever I ask, as long as she gets ~~paid~~ her free time.

Around that time of the month, Tia makes it known that she wants to be left alone. She pulls the covers over her head and announces to ~~me in particular~~ everyone that she is not getting out of bed for anyone. She speaks her mind so articulately.

At dinner time Tia will argue with her siblings about who will set the table, wash and dry the dishes and mop the floor every night because she ~~doesn’t want to~~ cares so much. Even though I have set up a schedule for who is to do what every night, she does have a break every other night. She knows just how to get a job done.

When the clothes need to be separated and folded after I do all the laundry Tia will ~~bribe~~ persuade Tamara (who is just six), to put away her big sis's clothes for a bag of gummy worms. Tamara does it and Tia now owes her 7 bags of gummy worms, 2 lollipops and 1 bag of Hershey kisses. Any day now Tamara is waiting for her reward for being such a good little ~~sucker~~ sister. She just has to stop asking Tia so many questions, and maybe she’ll find it all miraculously appear on her bed one day.

If sickness befalls the BIBI household and Tia happens to ~~get the sniffles~~ catch the bug, then everyone has to attend to Tia. I anyone not sick in the house will bring her hot tea with a freshly squeezed lemon with 1 tablespoon of honey. I they plump up her pillows, and massage her feet, and make sure that her room is not too hot or too cold. She is made comfortable even if it means getting out of bed at 2 AM to pass her the glass of water on her nightstand table. She was too weak to reach that far.

So, I think that Mrs. Jay-Z should rewrite her song to say that a Diva articulates what she wants, how she wants it, when she wants it, without any questions asked.

I am a proud momma of a Diva. My daughter's behavior is just a product of someone else's imagination.

What's In a Name?

2009-03-05T00:32:00.006-05:00

I saw this quiz on Sheri's blog and decided to try it. Have you ever wondered what's in your name? What maniacal twist of fate possessed your parents to name you the name that you currently answer to? Here's what my name means according to this quiz:

You Are Lively and Courageous

You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous.

You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things.

Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

Ha! And they think that they know me pretty well. Darn people. Hit the nail right on the head!

Go ahead give it a try! I dare ya! :-)

My Name Is Esme!

2009-03-04T23:53:00.008-05:00

Okay you Twilight fans I did it. I took the quiz that Sheri suggested on her blog and it said that I am:

You are thoughtful and care very deeply for your family. A loving home is of great importance to you and you always try to make people feel welcome. Although you have a great capacity to love, you also have a great capacity to hurt, so at times you can be sensitive. You're firm when you need to be, but people trust your judgment and appreciate the kind way you always handle things.

It all sounds so nice and everything, but I didn't even see the movie yet! Now I have to go see it.
So how about it?!? Why don't you give it a try? See what character you most likely resemble.

Now I Know My A B C 's...

2009-03-04T16:10:00.006-05:00

I seen this on Sheri's blog and it looked like fun.

Sheri has the neatest blog, and I told her that I would post this some days ago. My bad! Sorry Sheri. Well, it's better late than never I always say!

The rules are :
1. To each letter of the alphabet, write a word connected to you.
2. Tag 6 people.

Coming up with something for each letter proved to be fun. Thank goodness I know the ABC's!

A - Alfalfa. He was a TV star on the show 'The Little Rascals' and Spankys' best friend. I loved his cowlick! My first crush and the obvious effect TV can have on little kids.
B - Books. I love to read. I am a true bookworm.
C - Curves. Have plenty of them. It's just more of me to love that's all!
D - Death. I will never get into a long discussion about it because it scares me to death. No pun intended.
E - Enya. One of my favorite singers. Why?!? I don't know. I guess I like her vocal ability.
F - Friends & Family. Very important. Vital to my life support.
G - Google. I Google everything. I used to be a Yahoo! girl, but now I'm addicted to Google.
H - Hubby. Fave topic to digress about. Can you tell?
I - Ignore. I'm good at ignoring those who annoy me.
J - Job. It sucks that millions of my fellow Americans are losing them left and right. That's why I hardly talk about it.
K - Kangaroo. I've always wanted to know what their fur feels like. And do they really kick you if you get too close?
L - Love. It's obvious that is my number one motivation to live. And you?
M - Money. Don't have enough. Enough said.
N - Numbers. They amaze but also scare me. I so suck at them as well.
O- Open. I am learning to be more open. How am I doing?
P - Parenting. It's a mystery to me. Scares me to pieces as well! Why didn't I just watch TV in bed instead of jumping my old man's bone?!?
Q - Quiet person. Especially when I'm in deep thought.
R - Roses. Love them in all colors. The scent is pretty incredible as well.
S - Sunny days. My favorite kind of days. I'm a much better person to be around when it is sunny outside.
T - Too much television takes up too much of my time. I still watch it though. I'll join a 12 step program one day. Don't hold your breath though.
U - Unfaithful people are not part of my circle.
V - Violin. Want to learn how to play. Personally I believe I'll screech so badly when I put the bow to the strings, that I will attract dogs 10 miles away.
W - Windows Vista is pretty cool. Now if only I could get that little arrow marker to stop clicking on things that I don't want to get into.
X - Xtra xtra. The sleazy show about the Hollywood scene, gives me a daily dose of gossipy sludge.
Y - Yogurt. First thing in the morning. Love all flavors.
Z - Need some zzz's. I'm always tired.

Now how about you give this a try!

Anyone who reads this blog consider yourself tagged! This way I will not leave anyone of you beautiful people out.
:-)

100 Item Bucket List

2009-03-01T18:27:00.004-05:00

I recently saw this post on Christine's blog. I'm sure you all have heard of the bucket list. Instead of doing things before I die, here is a list of things I have already done.

Wanna play? All you have to do is copy the list and highlight (or make it bold) of all the things that you have done. The comments in the parentheses were made by me. I always have to comment on something. It's like a sickness or something. :-D

I have...

1. Started my own blog (on August 28, 2008)
2. Slept under the stars (one of the many camping trips I took as a child)
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii — Hattie, you should substitute ‘Newark, N.J.’, for ‘Hawaii’
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain (on one of my many other camping trips)
9. Held a praying mantis (I was a daring and stupid child)
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea (I was a stupid adult as well. Who watches storms near water?)
14. Taught myself an art from scratch (I've started to paint with oils and have a long way to go before I am considered an artist)
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning (got sick as a dog as a result)
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables (I live in the country. Enough said.)
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight (on one of the best sleepovers ever as a child)
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill (*slapping the hand* bad Bibi bad!)
24. Built a snow fort (In NYC there was always a snowfight to be had)
25. Held a lamb (They are so soft and cute )
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse (Long time ago in the seventies. At least that's what my momma said)
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset (We used to live near the beach in Rockaway NYC)
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise (As a child, don't remember much, except I dropped my stuffed animal friend in the water)
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language (Spanish, not fluent yet!)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (Once upon a time, before I married)
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing (the requirement for being at camp)
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant (I don't like seeing hungry people on the street)
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance (one of my many trips to the hospital giving birth to one child or another)
47. Had my portrait painted (my Grandfather did it. *SIGH* I miss him)
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain (the hubby and I were like teenagers when we first got married)
53. Played in the mud (still do when I plant seeds in my garden)
54. Gone to a drive-in theater (It is now closed. Darn recession has hit everyone)
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business (I sell items on eBay. It's lucrative and keeps me busy)
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies (my girls did Girl Scouts long, long time ago)
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason (the hubby is wonderful)
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma (Yep, I love a good cause)
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi concentration camp
67. Bounced a check (my bad!, won't happen again)
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy (still have a little doll who is a male with a prominent male appendage)
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial (my family once lived in DC for a time)
71. Eaten caviar (it was tasty)
72. Pieced a quilt (for the babies)
73. Stood in Times Square (life in NYC was pretty exciting, sometimes)
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle (my little bro and I were daredevils)
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car (still have it)
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper (it was for a good cause)
85. Read the entire Bible (a very good read too!)
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox (when I was eleven. Not a good thing)
89. Saved someone’s life (I do know CPR, and saved my child's life. She was choking on a piece of candy)
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club (many to be exact)
93. Lost a loved one (my beloved Grandfather)
94. Had a baby (seven to be exact)
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone (still do!)
99. Been stung by a bee (five times! UGH!!)
100. Ridden an elephant

Well now, I don't think I've led the ultimate exciting life, but it's all well worth it.

Have fun with your bucket list!

Bibi Now Has a New Name!

2009-02-28T21:33:00.002-05:00

I have officially changed my URL to bibihasthelastword(dot)blogspot(dot)com.

Take a big step back and observe that nothing has changed, no facelift, no new pics, just a new name that is easier to remember and recognize.

At least I hope it is.

Hello March!

2009-02-28T19:53:00.009-05:00

Not that it is officially March yet, but this is to mark the last day of NaBloPoMo of 2009.

I loved every moment of it. Some days I was really lost on what to write. Other days I was pouring my heart out to you all. And your responses were overwhelming. In a good way!

Very honest, kind, and supportive and I feel overwhelmed with emotion. Right now:

"My cup runneth over"

I feel very good that I finished this blog with more than 28 posts. I never thought that I would be able to do so. But you all were so very supportive and truly the motivation to me finishing my NaBloPoMo for February 2009. Two points!

I think that I will only do this NaBloPoMO every year in February. It is the shortest month and, I tell you no lies when I say this, thirty/thirty-one days is a little overwhelming! :-P

I would personally like to thank:
Akilah
Sheri
Lucy
Ashley
Cyndi
Brenda Susan
Carma
Charles Gramlich
Maxie
Kylie
Chris
Mom (from The Mind of Mom)
Donna (of Don Mills Diva)
Stone
Speedcat Hollydale
Christine
Deutlich
Nilsa
Anne Nguyen
Lilly
Clarity
Mr. Bill
Dee =^.^=
Tina
and Sara for all of your comments.

I would also like to thank my children for being the entertainment that keeps my life busy and for not taking life so seriously.

I'd like to thank my therapist Ms. G for being their when the times got rough.

I like to thank my professor who personally influenced at least three of my post this month.

I'd also like to thank my hubby for being the man that he is. If he wasn't, then I'd have nothing to share and then laugh about it with you all. Love you hubs!

I'd like to thank my dentist for lying to me. That drilling done on my teeth DID hurt! You have to love a doc who would lie to you with a smile. A pretty sparkling, white, straight teeth smile.

I'd also like to thank the driver following too close behind me last night when I was on my way home for shining those darn 'brights' into my eyes so that I would drive faster. I was doing 70 MPH dude! But you still passed me when the coast was clear. I hope that you got to that stop sign that you so desperately wanted to get to!

I'd also like to thank the old lady who stopped me in the grocery store last night who accused me of stealing her popcorn out of her cart. While we were standing in the snack isle right next to the chips and popcorn. Right after she put her bag of popcorn back on the shelf. A full two minutes before I even thought of buying any. Thanks for making me the center of attention in the one place I should have not even gone near since starting my diet.

*Sigh* I sooo want March to come. And soon.

Love you all,
*BIBI*

HUH?!?

2009-02-27T22:54:00.004-05:00

Recently my logic professor gave me this riddle to help me understand what's really behind my LOGIC 200 class. It is called: "Egocentric Categorical Syllogism"

I am a nobody,

nobody is perfect,

therefore I am perfect.

Damn! I still don't get it!

Again, I've Been Left Speechless!

2009-02-26T11:20:00.003-05:00

Cyndi again has awarded me another award. I was totally left speechless when I saw that she gave me not one but two awards.

So through my cloudy mind (and blurry tears), I left a comment on her page. I don’t even remember what I wrote. I just wrote down what came to me and sent it.

Cyndi honey, if you are reading this, please forgive me if my comment made no sense at all. I had the best intentions.

Now I know how the stars feel at the Oscar’s. Yeah, I feel THAT good!

“These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

This 'Love Ya' award is sweet as I am always attempting to find new friends.

The people I give this amazing award to are:

Akilah, Chris, Carma, Sheri, Lucy, Mom, Tina, and Christine. Of course I have to add four more just because I love them so: Clarity, Ashley, Leon Basin, and Brenda Susan.

Thank you all again for being such good friends to me. I feel like I am the luckiest woman alive right now!

Okay, not the luckiest, but definitely the most loved. : )

I've Been Acknowledged For Being Me!

2009-02-26T10:52:00.006-05:00

And it feels damn great!

Cyndi has awarded me two awards.

This award acknowledges the values that every blogger shows in his/her effort to transmit cultural, ethical, literary and personal values every day.

WOW ! I am deeply humbled!

The rules to follow are:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person that has granted the award and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to another 15 blogs that are worthy of this acknowledgment. Remember to contact each of them to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

So the 15 people I am awarding this to are:

Sheri, Akilah, Mom, Chris, Tina, Cyndi (Thank you for the acknowledgment in the first place), Lucy, Nilsa, Deutlich, Lilly, Stone, Carma, Brenda, Ashley, and Maxie.

Thank you ladies for bringing such joy to my life and entertaining a mom who is in need of some adult conversations.

You totally deserve it!

A Mother's Pride and Joy

2009-02-25T19:24:00.006-05:00

My daughter and son. He of course does not want to take the picture.

I have a fifteen yer old son. Actually I have three teenagers. But that is for another post. Like I said before there is never a dull moment in the BIBI household.

Especially with my oldest son. Two years ago he began to experience the "puberty" thing at thirteen. Last summer he began to "smell" himself and began to be get very cocky. It's all good. I got him straight, and brought him back to earth with one of my 'if the momma ain't happy, nobody is' discussions. He got the message.

Or so I thought he did.

My talk was essentially about taking care not to smell when you become of a certain age. and as you become older you have to take essential care not to offend anyone.

He wanted to argue. I told him that if he didn't clean his 'pits' that we were going to have a problem. He sulkily went to take a shower. I was happy that I won the battle with the 'child' until I went into his room and discovered a letter that he wrote to himself.

FYI: I snoop on my children in my house all the time. It's my full-time occupation. Antyway...

The letter read:

Reasons Not To Wash

I was forced to as a child.
People who make soap are only after your money.
I wash on special occasions like Christmas and Easter.
People who wash are hypocrites--they think they are cleaner than everyone else.
There are so many different kinds of soap, I can't decide which one is best.
I used to wash, but it got boring so I stopped.
None of my friends wash.
The bathroom is never warm enough in the winter or cool enough in the summer.
I'll start washing when I get older and dirtier.
I can't spare the time.

I don't know where he got his writing skills from, but I'm betting the comics that he reads has a lot to do with it.

I let that infraction go. He was soon not to disappoint me again.

Now don't get me wrong, my son is good in school and he loves his teachers. But someone said something to him (an adult of course) and asked him why was he passing notes in class?

It wasn't nothing that serious, just a harmless drawing, but the teacher felt the need to address my son, in front of the whole class!

He (the assistant teacher) then preceded to tell him "That if you do this again I will send you back where you came from, as you will be banished from my class."

My eloquent son told the assistant teacher:

"No you can't, my momma ain't here!"

Why oh why did I ever encourage him as baby to talk?!?

Keep Walking

2009-02-24T08:35:00.005-05:00

Mr. Perry wrote another letter to his fans again. Writing about his movie "Madea Goes to Jail" which was released last Friday, and his new show.

He always thanks his fans, and tell us of any upcoming movies or shows. That is so gracious and it shows what a humbling and grateful spirit that he does have.

Last week on 'The View', Tyler Perry told the story of how one woman approached him on the street shortly after he had opened his studio in Atlanta, GA. This came as no shock to him, as he is used to people approaching him on the street and asking for change. This woman however didn't want any change, she just requested a pair of shoes.

Mr. Perry goes on to say that he was a little shocked at the request, but he remembered the times that he was on the streets with only one pair of shoes. So he took her to the studio and gave her a pair of shoes. The lady graciously thanked Mr. Perry and said:

"Thank you Jesus, my feet are now off the ground."

The reason Tyler related this story was because he was feeling that same way about his success that he has achieved thus so far. He was knocked down, abused, homeless, and then God got his feet off the ground and gave him some shoes to fill and walk on the road less traveled. A road to recovery that millions of us are trying to reach but stumble upon and lose our way. Some of us have family to pick us up and give us a good swift kick in the glutes to keep walking. Others have the will and tenacity to keep going all on our own. That gumption to keep walking takes a lot of strength and willpower, whatever your circumstance.

I would like now to take the opportunity to share this letter with you all:

Number one again! WOW! I’m too full to write. All I can say is THANK YOU! I couldn’t let this day go by without saying thank you. What I know for sure is that you all are with me, and that makes me feel good. When I think about how close I came to giving up, that makes me feel good. When I think about all the hell I went through to get here, that makes me feel good. When I think about all the people who told me I wasn’t going to be anything, that makes me feel good. To know that you all are standing shoulder to shoulder with me--God, that makes me feel good. There is a simple scripture in the Bible that I think about often, and it says when you have favor with God then you have favor with man. So thank you for being a part of my favor. I hope somebody is paying attention to this. Not the number one movie, not the TV shows, not the studio, but simply paying attention to the fact that all things are possible to them that will believe. No matter what is going on in your life. No matter what you’re faced with. ONLY BELIEVE! Believe for the best outcome and that’s what you will receive. Tyler Perry

I am grateful to have been given my shoes from my Grandmother. She is my inspiration to keep walking.

How about you? Anyone you want to thank for getting you up and walking?

BIbi Gets a New Name

2009-02-23T22:37:00.005-05:00

I'm already know as Bibi of BIBI HAS THE LAST WORD. However, my URL reads differently at unnrestedsoul (dot) blogspot (dot) com. It's a bit difficult to try to tell people to find you at your home page when the URL and title don't match.

I'm going to do this switch after February's NaBloPoMo for 2009 is over. No new blog facelift. No new colors. Just a new perspective on the whole blog thing.

So I am going to switch my URL to bibihasthelastword(dot)blogspot(dot)com. I'm making it easier for others to find me. And also easier for me to remember.

I'm not checking out, just changing my name.

Come and Get Your Slumdog On!

2009-02-23T08:22:00.002-05:00

Okay, those of you who have seen the Oscar's last night, kudos! Wasn't it great?!?

Touching when Heath's family accepted his award last night. I cried.

Touching when Kate (my girl) won the best actress award. I cried.

Hugh Jackman (my ~~husband~~ innocent crush) was the man of the hour with a magnificent performance hosting the Oscar's. Some may laugh at that silly dance number that he performed with Beyonce, but I say he is still adorable. All 6' 1" of him! It's obvious that I have a big thing for Aussie men, as I am so obviously bias. Oh well!

Biggest surprise of the night, Sean Penn winnning for the portrayal of Harvey Milk. He was excellent in the movie as well. By the way, to quote Robert Deniro, 'how did he get away with playing straight men all these years?' He was very convincing. And deserved the Oscar win. Even though I was convinced that my Mickey would take it home. :(

Antyway, Slumdog Millionaire won all but one of their Oscar's that they were nominated for last night bringing their total to eight. Including the Oscar for best picture. Wonderful, and anyone interested in other people's culture beside their own should see it. It makes you appreciate being an American all the more.

Penelope Cruz looked beautiful accepting her award in her beautiful but very old gown. The gown was made by a designer whose name escapes me right now, but the gown is 60 years old! It was obviously beautifully perserved. Get this: Penelope saw it eight years ago, and said to herself that she 'has got to have it', but failed to buy it at the time. She then went back to the shop just this month and the gown was still there. Can you believe it?!? It was striking and she wore it well. Even though she stole the award from my Viola Davis. :(

Well, out of my six picks only four of my bets won.

1. Heath Ledger for Best Supporting Actor.
2. Danny Boyle for Best Director.
3. Kate Winslet for Best Actress in a leading role.
4. Slumdog Millionaire for Best Picture of the year.

I did okay in my predictions, but hopefully I'll do better next year!

Celebrate Heart Month

2009-02-22T20:13:00.004-05:00

February is not only celebrating Black History month, Valentine's Day, and President's Day, but it is also National Heart month.

Lots of women put on their red dresses to celebrate this month. I don't own a red dress, but I do have a red dress pin. Two points!

Antyway, out of all the holidays celebrated this month I believe that National Heart month is a very noble cause to recognize. Especially for women everywhere.

I never knew that heart disease was so prevalent among the females until I began taking my nursing classes. The statistics is unbelievable, and heart rendering! (no pun intended)

With all the women folk in my house we have to keep a look out for our ticker because of our genes. Just for the record, we do support Woman's Heart Health. Now if only we can find the red dresses to go with the occasion.

I wonder if any of the women at the Oscars thought to wear one?

Wanna Bet?!?

2009-02-21T21:05:00.006-05:00

Those of you who are ready for the 81st annual Academy Awards being shown on ABC know that it is on tomorrow night. As well as the Barbara Walters Special before the big show. Love watching Barbara, and will of course watch that as well. Of course I have my favorites among the actors, actresses and directors, and I am betting that the following will win:

BEST PICTURE: Slumdog Millionaire
I heard so many good reviews about this movie and I am looking forward to seeing it this weekend. I sure hope it wins.

LEAD ACTOR: Mickey Rourke, "The Wrestler"
Haven't seen the movie but I love Mickey and the idea of the comeback kid making it big in Hollywood after so many years on hiatus is a true tearjerker.

LEAD ACTRESS: Kate Winslet, "The Reader"
The whole idea of a woman getting her groove on with a young man is pretty creepy, but it is art imitating life. Unless the young man is a minor. But I do believe this is Kate's' year to win!

SUPPORTING ACTOR: Heath Ledger, "The Dark Knight"
Even though my heart was leaning toward Robert Downey Jr. for "Tropic Thunder", I am rooting for Heath. Love Aussie men, and he deserves it. Any arguments?

SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Viola Davis, "Doubt"
I saw Viola Davis' performance in "Doubt" and was floored. She is truly remarkable in her role, and has come a long way. Go Viola!

BEST DIRECTOR: Danny Boyle, "Slumdog Millionaire"
My first choice for best director this year was originally Ron Howard for "Frost/Nixon" as I love 'ole Opie. But this is Danny Boyle first directional debut and sometimes those who first direct a big blockbuster do win. However; and I may be contradicting myself when I say this, I really think Ron Howard will win the award. But I am sticking with Danny Boyle.

So there you all have it! These are my predictions, and I am sticking with them. Anyone in for a bet? Can't bet money, but I can bet you I'll do a comment of each and every post on your blog for one whole month!

Are you in?

The Key to Longevity

2009-02-20T11:14:00.005-05:00

Have we really found the fountain of youth? The secret to living longer? It’s no myth according to some analysts, and it’s called “The Blue Zone”. These are the areas in which scientist say the people who live here, live longer.

The segment featured Costa Rica, but also mentioned Okinawa Japan, a small unrecognizable town in California, and two other cities which I missed the name to. I watched the segment this morning on the Today show.

Studies done have indicated that those in “The Blue Zone” have lived longer due to:

a) Genetics. (Mine are not too bad. We could eliminate some of the ‘fat’ genes though.)

b) No smoking. (Okay I sneak a little ciggy here and there now and again.)

c) Diet. (Working on it!)

d) Zest for life. (My motto is: smile while you’re making it, laugh while you’re taking it, even though you’re faking it, nobody’s gonna know!)

e) Religion. (Since I think about religion as much as getting a tooth pulled I rarely go into long discussions about it. But I believe that having faith in something bigger than you (e.g. a higher power) can have some health benefits. It’s called faith. Some do prayer. I just thank God that when he sees me on the caller ID he doesn’t hang up because he does answer some of my prayers.)

Okay genetics is a biggie. We totally don’t know what is in store for us if you have no idea about your families’ history. Family-wise my gene pool has high-blood pressure, bad breath (not that I have any), diabetes, sarcasm, cussing, cancer, yakking too much about nothing syndrome, incontinence, heart disease, ADHD, and too much girth in the middle that just stays with you. Hmmm… according to this I should be keeling over at any minute, or at least in the hospital with a diaper on and a constant supply of breath mints.

Smoking. To smoke or not to smoke? It is ever debatable in my family since 1 out of every 3^rd person in my family does smoke. I only smoke occasionally (two ciggy’s a week) but according to this research you shouldn’t have none. Okay, *inhaling ciggy* let me know when you are finished *exhaling* reading this *blowing smoke circles* story.

Diet. Okay they emphasize that fresh is best. Fresh veggies, and fresh fruit. Living virtually as vegetarians/vegans. Shucks. That counts me out. I love a turkey ham sandwich with some mayo, mustard, on double fiber bread. Health nut? Not really. But I try to watch what I eat. (Trying is only half the battle)

Zest for life. Okay, some say that laughter is the best medicine. One thing remarkable about the people interviewed in Costa Rica, was the fact that they have never been to a hospital, never been sick and that they had genuine laughter behind that twinkle in their eye. That twinkle in their eye was put there with some help. They are not THAT happy with life. Perhaps they like what is happening between those sheets at night with their significant other. According to Akilah they are still enjoying the humping, even though it is somewhat dry now, well past the age when many think it is inconceivable to do such. Woohoo grandma, get your groove on!

Religion. Okay this is a tough one, but virtually whoever you are praying to is obviously looking out for you because you are doing alright so far. I hope.

This research is purely based on the fact that they kept records of these individuals and realized that a fifty year old man has a greater chance of making 90 than a man residing in the U.S.

So if you and the significant other want to keep the longevity in your life, you might want to consider moving to one of these ‘Blue Zones’ and keep the zesty, happy, free of bad genetics, fresh diet, with lots of prayer life that you are used to. If you don’t keel over when having sex at 120 and your partner is two months shy of 125.

I've Been Dreaming

2009-02-19T08:51:00.004-05:00

I usually don’t dream but last night I did. If I do dream it is because I’ve slept too much or I tossed and turned all night. I’m hoping it’s the former and not the latter or I’m going to be more tired then a drunken monkey.

I dreamt about Madea. For those of you who don’t know Madea, she is the creation of Tyler Perry who has the shows on TBS called ‘House of Payne’ and ‘Meet the Browns’. He has also made quite a few movies like ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ starring Shemar Moore and Kimberly Elise; and the ‘Family That Preys’ with Alfre Woodard and Kathy Bates.

I love the character Madea. She is loud, boisterous, funny, and downright lovable. It’s a plus that ‘she’ is played by a ‘he’, but that’s okay. I’m no hater. I love people of all shapes, sizes, color, height, breed, and whatever you have between you legs; makes me no never mind. The only person that I tease about their height is my SIL who I’ve told to write a letter of complaint to the town mayor for building the sidewalk too close to her ass. It’s all in fun.

Now I realize that Mr. Tyler has been receiving some criticism from people for wearing the dress and portraying a woman. But hell, he is a success and people worldwide love his Madea! She’s the grandma everyone needs or wants. However my Grandmother is never as boisterous as Madea, but she gets her point across just fine. Plus, I love a man who is comfortable wearing a dress and not afraid to laugh at himself in public. Now back to my dream.

Well, me the hubby and my son were outside this woman’s house just sweep her yard. The yard was full of leaves and we were using brooms. WTF? But it’s a dream. Let me continue. So we finish sweeping and piling the leaves in piles, but we don’t put them into any bags.

I began to help the hubs without even knowing why or what we were doing there at some random stranger’s house. He knew though and insisted that I help. So that’s what I was doing when he said that we should stop and go to the old lady and tell her we were done. Done? “I thought we were to put them in bags?” I shouted at him. Strange, even in my dream I still show my irritation to the hubby.

Anyskittle, we go up these horrendous flights of stairs that go on forever. I mean it was like the sky was the limit. As we climbed up the stairs we stopped and looked at a kite that was aimlessly flying in the wind. No kid holding it on the other end, just floating in the sky without a thought or care. We continued our trek. We come to the ladies door and I knock.

I hear this shrill “Who is it?” I back away. The hubby then opens the door a smidgen and shouts in the crack “It’s me!”

“Who the hell is ‘ME’?” she says. The hubby stands back and looks at me. He has a slight grin on his face but proceeds to say “Umm, we were out sweeping your leaves.”

“Oh is that you? Come on in. Why didn’t you say so?” Madea then opens the door big as life. She has on a turquoise dress with little white flowers. I just stare at her as she is standing there smiling. I don’t move. The hubby and son go in and look back at me like I’ve lost my head.

"Your, your, your Madea!" I stutter.

“Yeah, won’t you come on in? I’ve just made some food for you’ll to eat. Ya hungry?”

I finally nod my head and walk inside. Her house has lots of trinkets and lots of little statues around. Comfy in a sort of maternal kind of way.

“Have a seat.” She leads us to her dining room and we sit down. She brings out all this food like a rotisserie chicken, sweet yams, collard greens, corn on the cob, biscuits, and dinner mints. Can you tell that I went to bed hungry?

Anyskittle, we laugh and Madea told more jokes than I ever heard. The details are kind of fuzzy because this is the time when the hubby began to shift around the bed and blow his fog horn in my ear. Let’s just say if you do decide to visit Madea, I’m quite sure she’ll be a gracious host. Just invite me to come along.

Or better yet, meet me at the theater when you go to see ‘Madea Goes to Jail’. It’s this Friday. Let’s make it a date!

And the Oscar Goes to...

2009-02-18T20:30:00.004-05:00

Heath Ledger, was a remarkable actor. Just recently (two weeks ago) I saw 'Dark Knight.' He was superb, and I hope he does win.

It wasn't until I saw Heath in '10 Things I hate About You' that I really began to dig Aussie guys. (See my label on 'Hugh Jackman') Of course, I never had the chance to meet or date one, but a girl can dream can't she?!? :^)

If he does win, his daughter Matilda, with whom he had with Michelle Williams is only three and will bring home the trophy for her dad. If only she can sign a contract. Read the complete article.

Now, I believe that a three year old can sign their name because kids are being taught earlier in life these days, but to put such a stipulation on such a child who has just lost her father is downright sad.

I hope the Academy's President comes up with a better solution for any 2 year old ready to pick up his/her trophy in the coming future.

Choosing to Exhale

2009-02-17T20:57:00.007-05:00

ME AND THE BUNNY IN BETTER TIMES.
SOON MY LOVE FOR STUFFED ANIMALS WOULD REFLECT IN MY PERSONALITY.

What attracts people to their mates? It’s a question that has been lingering in my head since the news of the Rhianna and Chris Brown fiasco. I feel compelled to respond now because I witnessed many abusive situations in my time.

At no time do I feel compelled to defend a man who hits on a woman, nor can I readily forgive them. I do realize that there are two sides to every story, so I try not to be so quick in my judgments. However, I feel compelled to answer the call to abused women everywhere.

As a little girl, I witnessed the most horrific abuse that a woman can endure. My father beat my mother. Since I was the oldest of eight I was a witness to a lot of physical abuse.

The man, who calls himself my father, beat on my mom while she was pregnant with child number five. It was not uncommon, and I grew up with this kind of abuse. However; this one sticks out in my memory so vividly. I remember getting ready because my mom was about to take us all out to Central Park for an outing. She told him that she was tired of him and his nonsense and would soon leave. He of course, threw a fit. That’s when I seen him punch my mom in the face.

She went down like a boxer being KO’d in the ring. With her dress ballooning around her as she fell in front of her dresser, I soon knew what I had to do. Grabbing my two little sisters and little brother I quickly took them by the hand and led them downstairs until the fighting died down.

I was eight at the time, and my reactions were quick. Grabbing sister A (age 7) and brother T (age 6) by one hand, and grabbing sister N (age 3) in the other hand I half dragged, half pulled them down the stairs until the beating subsided.

As I stood in the big picture window overlooking our front yard, I prayed that someone could hear my mother screaming, and would come and rescue us. I watched as one man walked by the window stopped in front of our house, turned and looked at the sobbing children in the window and shook his head.

My brother and sisters were crying, especially sister N who wanted my mom, but was too frightened to go upstairs. I was the only one who stood without tears, having seen and heard it all before. At eight I knew how to suppress my feelings and not let it be known that I was hurting for my mom and that I wanted my father dead. The guilt I felt at wanting someone I love dead, confused me to no end. I have a hard time looking him in the face to this day.

The sound of my own blood rushing in my ears grew louder as the screaming wouldn’t stop. The sound of dressers falling and tables being overturned echoed in my head as my father threw furniture around. I imagined my mother shielding her belly with one arm and trying to ward of her attacker with the other. I silently said to myself “stop, stop, stop”, but my whispers fell on deaf ears, as no one would listen.

I walked the siblings to the door as if to take them outside. By now they were shivering, and couldn’t control their chattering teeth. Soon as I made the decision to take them outside, the screaming stopped. My heart raced a little as I wanted to know if my mom was okay. I stood at the bottom of the staircase listening, waiting, and soon realized that I couldn’t breathe because I was holding my breath. Exhaling loudly, my head jerked up when I heard my father shout at me to come upstairs. Looking up at him standing at the top of the stairs my scowl spoke otherwise, and I stared him down as if to contest him. He walked away and went into the bathroom.

I wanted to go upstairs to see how my mom was doing, but looking back at my sibs who snuck up behind me, I thought it was best not to otherwise. I could hear her whimpering and crying, but was conflicted on what to do. I stayed downstairs with my little brother and sisters and we huddled on the window seat in the picture window until the “attacker” left.

He was mumbling how he would kill my mother, and she better listen to him next time or else. I still remember looking at him with such disgust, and how he stared me down as if to say ‘go ahead try it.’ He won, and I knew when to back off when the odds were not in my favor.

In reflection, I look back at those times and wonder what would I have done if my parents owned a gun and I found it? Would I have been one of those children that you see on the news who tell their story over and over again to the media who wants to know what happened? Only to be lost in the system years later and on one of those “Where Are They Now” shows?

Now that the hubby and I are faced with our own crisis but working on it, I now empathize with the women who have to wake up everyday and move on with life after being assaulted in such a fashion. I constantly ask my mom why she endured such abuse for 21 years. To that she has no answer.

I’m not holding my breath for an answer either, because she is trying to move on with her life after being divorced from my father for 15 years now. This is the moment when I exhale, and I then realize that I have been holding my breath in anticipation that I am missing something in life. Something like moving on from the pain and realizing that no one will make my life better, only me.

In retrospect, with all that has happened to me in my childhood, I have decided to try to be very careful in my selection of mates. I’ve failed in some aspects, but in others I have dutifully have tried to correct my mistakes and have no regrets in my decision making. Only vow to learn from them.

To err is human, to forgive is divine. I’m still working on the forgiving part.

Me, Myself, and I

2009-02-16T21:03:00.007-05:00

Okay last week I visited clever girl goes blog and I decided to play the letter game. I did this once with mom some posts ago, but I had the letter G. These kind of tags are always fun.

Tia gave me the letter 'I', which I will now dutifully play. I am suppose to list ten things about the letter 'I'. Here goes:

Ice Cream

What can I say? I love the cold stuff that can give you brain freeze when you eat it too fast. This may be why I have some poundage to lose, but ah well. Nonetheless, be it vanilla, chocolate, fudge swirl, strawberry, or rocky road (my fave), I’ll eat it. Ice cream gotta sell, big girls gotta eat. It’s a never ending cycle.

India

Love Bollywood. Have the movies ‘City of Joy’, ‘Monsoon Wedding’, and ‘A Passage to India’. Haven’t seen Gandhi in a looong time. Have yet to see ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. And I’d love to visit India one day. Perhaps I’ll see Shah Ru Khan (say that three times fast) shake his groove thing Indian style. Some say since we have Indian cuisine and Deepak Chopra, you don’t need India. I beg to differ; I like the real thing!

Igloo

When I was a little girl I once dreamed that I would runaway and be adopted by an Eskimo family and live in an Igloo. Then I grew up. I still dream that one day I’ll build an igloo with my children and that we’ll spend the night in it. A girl can still dream right?

Iris

Lovely flower. Very calm looking and pleasant to the eye. I always admired them but never had the gumption to plant any. But this year it will be different. Instead of ornamental grass and weeds in my flower beds, I’ll plant some irises along with some other flowers as well.

Iced Mocha Joe

Love the drink, and I usually have one on some mornings when I am running errands early in the morning. There is however only one fast food restaurant where I get them from who can make it my way.

iPhone

Don’t own one, wouldn’t mind having one though. Tia talks about the iPhone so much I think I just might try and get one. Perhaps I’ll learn what the Apps REALLY is.

Isis

An Egyptian Goddess of fertility, also known as a winged goddess who represented all that was visible, birth, growth, development and vigor. The ancient Egyptians saw Isis as a benevolent goddess, good and kind. Each pharaoh born was regarded as her son, and Isis loved all creatures like a mother. She was the chaste and devoted wife and as a result most highly regarded among the Egyptian gods. Not that I am into that kind of thing but she is female and the maternity feeling had to come from somewhere, right? Plus the name sounds cool.

I am Sam

Okay, shoot me, not technically an “I” word but it does start with “I” though. Loved the movie, and Sean Penn was excellent as the lead character. Dakota Fanning was great as well. This movie was such a positive reflection of those who are handicapped in our society and how they can, despite their limitations, can hold their own. They are real people, and unlike the rest of the world they are the most compassionate people I know. My aunt has Down syndrome and was born in the 60’s, back in the day when they were called Mongoloids, and they were not expected to live long. The docs in NYC said she wouldn’t live to see eight years old. My aunt is now 44 years old and physically active. She cooks, cleans, washes clothes, walks three miles every other day, and to relax she colors in her coloring books. She is obviously my favorite aunty.

Imagination

Active, very active and wild. I can convince myself that the bogeyman is in my room and I will crawl in one of my childrens bed (which by the way annoys them). Or with my imagination I can make the bogeyman go away. Either way, I’m quirky and active imaginations feed off of that kind of stuff. The only downside is when I am in the PMS mood; my imagination won’t make the annoying people go away.

“I Hate This Part”

A hit song off of the Pussycat Dolls latest CD, ‘Doll Domination’. Okay my imagination is not working for me right now and this is the only thing that I can think of. Love the song, and the Pussycat Dolls are obviously the inspiration behind my drive to losing weight. And when I do lose the weight, I will definitely get the pole. Hey, it’s for exercising people!

I hope that I gave the letter ‘I’ some justice. Okay, Tia that letter was hard, but thank goodness it wasn’t Q, X, or Z. Whew! My head hurts just thinking about the imagination one would have to have to write about either of those letters.

We Are All Creatures of Habit

2009-02-15T22:50:00.006-05:00

I habitually watch television, blog, daydream about being a famous writer, drink a gallon of water a day, and dream about being 60 pounds thinner. I am also a creature of stranger habits, but this blog page is way too short to list all of the *ahem* details.

However, I do know I have a habit of doing other things as well. I:

-Tell the hubby that we have less in our joint account after I deposit HIS checks so that I can buy something that I really want, but not necessarily need.

-Tell the children that if they don't eat all of their okra at dinner, that they'll have nightmares.

-Always tell my loving but habitually curious Grandmother that everything is okay, when it's sometimes not. (It's for her own good, she doesn't need to worry!)

-Convince myself that writing in my journal every night can be cathartic (Oprah's definition) and can possibly be a good story when that journal is finished. (I have yet to fill up one journal since 2003.)

-Tell myself that one day the hubby will figure out that the laundry hampers are colored coded for a reason and that he will stop sticking to be bleached clothes and not-to-be-bleached clothes in the same basket. He is definitely a work in progress.

-Tell the children that if they don't do their chores that they will lose their TV privileges. (LOL, that one even sounds funny to my ears!)

-Tell myself that one day I'll just answer the 'unknown' numbers that keep showing up on my caller ID with: "Hello, welcome to Wendy's."

-Constantly tell myself that reading a book into the wee hours of the morning and then getting up at 6 AM to get the kids ready for school is really something not good for the irrational and impatient. (Until then I'll cuss and mumble into I get my 'fix' of my daily must read blogs.)

-Tell myself that not everyone is perfect and that I need to stop being so hard on myself.

Some say that honesty is the best policy ya know!

But until then, honesty can stay the hell under the bed until I am ready to face her!

Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-14T20:51:00.007-05:00

Presently, I am in the mood to watch a good movie. A good romantic comedy/romantic drama. You know a chick flick! Something that will make me laugh and do the ugly cry at the same time. With it being Valentine’s day and the hubby at work until 9PM, I think it only appropriate that I watch a good movie.

The choices are limitless. Lifetime of course has many romantic movies showing today, but they are not what I want now. You have to be in the mood to watch Lifetime, and what I really want is something on DVD.

How about?:

West Side Story

Racial tension in the streets of NYC. Romance between man and woman on different sides. Guys with tight pants that are just a wee bit high. Girls with Brooklyn/Puerto Rican Accents who can’t sing. The most touching scene is when Maria holds Tony in her arms while he lies dying. That is cinema at its best in 1961.

Ever After

Indeed the best Cinderella story ever made! Drew Barrymore and Angelica Huston were the best in the movie, and the other characters made the movie as well. Action, laughter, tears, and the very familiar story of Cinderella winning the Prince in a storytelling way that made my children believe that the story was true.

Notting Hill

Julia Roberts & Hugh Grant, what a duo! Actually the whole rich girl, poor boy –or- famous girl, successful bookstore owner made the tale of star-crossed lovers very believable and I fell in love with the movie. Not enough to list it as my favorite, but close enough. For added comic effect they put the dingy, filthy but lovable flat mate of Hugh’s whose presence the audience needed when the movie got too heavy.

Titanic

Made movie history and I went to go see it three times! This is the first performance of Kate Winslet that I had ever seen and of course I fell in love with her. Just a girl crush mind you, nothing serious. Leo was excellent and of course with the rest of the world I was bummed when he didn’t get nominated for the Oscar. However, the movie will live forever in my heart as timeless, and it was money well spent. Just the right amount of drama to make the romance believable and for years I thought that Jack and Rose were truly real passengers on the Titanic.

Atonement

Nothing that Kiera Knightley does is small. The romantic drama was a little over the top but made me appreciate the life that I do have with hubby and not to trust anyone to mess with that. Great storyline and I felt so sorry for the lovers.

Serendipity

I love John Cusack, and he was also in Say Anything, one of my faves as a teen. Kate Beckinsdale is not to bad either. I love movies with lovers wanting to be together but can’t for some reason or another. The whole fact that they reconnected after 10 years separated with a book holding the final say so, on whether they will get together made me weepy. A great one for the box of Kleenex on the coffee table.

Runaway Bride

Julia Roberts again with Richard Gere since their movie ‘Pretty Woman’. They make one of the most pleasant couples on the screen right next to Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. Lots of laughs, just the right amount of romance to make the movie enjoyable. Plus, one of my favorites as well.

Pride and Prejudice

So many remakes of the classic story by Jane Austen but the movie starring Kiera Knightley was absolutely the best. You know wealth and status was such a determining factor in a woman’s amounts of proposals in those days.

Sense and Sensibility

Another with Kate Winslet and the movie was excellent as well. This is one for under the covers with the shades pulled down and lots of candy sprinkled around you, with the box of tissues nearby. Emma Thompson is a great actress as well and pulls it off real well. Especially at the end when she begins to cry at her marriage proposal by Hugh Grant. Such a chic flick!

Much Ado about Nothing

And last but not least, one of my favorites. Lover’s quarrels, innocent girls turning into women, accusation, sex, and jilted brides set in 1640 Italy. Sounds like an episode on a soap. However; I LOVE this movie and Shakespeare is of course the greatest romantic writer known this world over. Enough said.

Well, with so many choices you would think that I had my full of movies to at least get into the holiday spirit. But NOOOO!

Had hair duty (3 heads total), bubble baths, cookie making, spaghetti and meatballs dinner’ cause of course it is a holiday, laundry (6 loads), homework, and kitchen cabinets to straighten.

The only thing that came close to anything romantic on TV today was whether Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana could make up her mind to plant a big one on the handsome admirer or tell him that she was Hannah Montana.

And how did you celebrate heart day?!?

There Are Pheromones In the Air

2009-02-13T23:42:00.002-05:00

In retrospect, February is the LOVE month. I am not in too much of a mushy mood. Yes, to receive a valentine would be nice, but I can’t write about love. I’ve tried and failed miserably.

Not to say that my children don’t enjoy it. Heck they had valentine parties in school today and came home with so much junk. Awww well, at least they are enjoying the holiday.

Some researchers are now saying that the attraction is now societal or biological, not logical. So does that mean that logically we don’t choose our mate properly but by societal judgment? Or is the biological part the physical attraction or the way we see our future mother/father to our children.

So is the chemical attraction for real or just something to keep researchers busy with money from the government to do bogus science experiments? Read this article to find out what USA today has time to write, wasting the readers time and 75 cents.

Coming tomorrow: the Anti-Valentine article.: ^)

Inspiration...

2009-02-12T21:04:00.004-05:00

You think I can get a Ph.D for changing my behavior and trying to be new person? I am truly in need of a character degree.

Till Death Do Us Apart

2009-02-11T20:08:00.002-05:00

Scenario: It is 4:34 PM in the afternoon and 75 degrees in the middle of February. A husband and wife are enjoying the balmy weather and the fact that the children are outside. Hubby is reading the Richmond Times Dispatch and the wife is reading the latest gossip magazine grabbed off of the shelf in the local super center. The children are enjoying the weather, screaming, laughing, and playing; unaware that there is a tornado watch warning in effect and that their parents are trying to tune them out.

Wife: “You know that octuplet mom does look like Angelina Jolie.”

Hubby: “You don’t say.”

Wife: “Michele Obama is one classy lady. I hope to one day inherit her sense of style.”

Hubby: “Nice, very nice.”

Wife putting down magazine and looking out of the window: “Why is Tamara screaming like that? Gosh she can be so melodramatic!”

Hubby: “Hmmm…”

Wife turning to hubby: “What would you do if I pierced my tongue?”

Hubby: “Nothin’. “

Wife: “How about my nipple?”

Hubby: “Don’t care.”

Wife: “Want to adopt a baby?”

Hubby: “Something to consider.”

Wife: “Are you listening to me?”

Hubby looking up finally from newspaper: “Yeah, yeah, I heard you.” Turns back to newspaper.

Wife: “The therapist said today that we should be more open to talk more with each other. Come on answer me, talk to me, look at me!”

Hubby sighing and putting down darn newspaper: “Alright, what do you want to talk about?”

Wife: SILENCE

Hubby: SILENCE

*One full minute later*

Wife: SILENCE

Hubby: SILENCE

Wife picking up magazine and grumbling to self: “You never listen to me.”

Hubby: SILENCE

This ladies and gentlemen is what marriage counseling does to a couple after only three sessions. We’re still a work in progress.

In Need of a Bailout from Daily Life?

2009-02-10T20:26:00.002-05:00

Lately the news has been addressing the economic slump that we are all experiencing. These are the times when I tune out from the real world and tune in my must have TV shows.

You know, Grey’s Anatomy, LOST, Hero’s, House, and my all time fave Tom & Jerry.

*SIGH* Tom & Jerry. My favorite cartoon from my childhood. I do have to say that I did escape to Tom & Jerry’s world every Saturday morning. The plots of each cartoon short usually centers on Tom (the cat) who despite numerous attempts tries to capture Jerry (the mouse) and the mayhem and destruction that ensues. Since Tom rarely attempts to eat Jerry and because the pair actually seems to get along in some cartoons, it was somewhat confusing to my little brain at the time why Tom chases Jerry so much.

Never mind Looney Tunes, and Woody Woodpecker, I only wanted to watch Tom & Jerry! (I had very little friends as a child).

I have now carried on this quirky habit well into my adulthood and now my children are forced to watch Tom & Jerry at 12 noon on Cartoon Network (when they are not in school), and then at 7:30 PM on Boomerang. But they don’t mind, it’s the silly hijinks that Tom & Jerry commit that keeps them laughing. Its great family time for a well deserved get together at the end of the day.

Since I don’t have TIVO (not in the budget) I have to make due with putting it on timer with my satellite network. But I faithfully watch them everyday religiously. I’ve been known to have stranger habits.

On that note I’d like to announce that today is the 69^th anniversary of Tom & Jerry making their first appearance on the screen. You go boys for entertaining the world since 1940!

Some trivial trivia…

When the cartoon first aired Tom (the cat) was actually called Jasper in the first cartoon short titled ‘Puss Gets the Boot’.
Tom & Jerry won a total of seven Academy Awards for Best Short Subject (cartoons) tying with the infamous Walt Disney back in the day.
In 1986 Tom & Jerry were bought by Turner Entertainment. Hanna Barbera owned them from 1940-1958. Gene Deitch then owned them from 1960-1962. Then Chuck Jones from 1963-1967.
Tom & Jerry are well-known all over the world, especially in Saudia Arabia (big surprise), China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Mongolia, and South Korea.

So what was your favorite cartoon as a child?

Desk Tag!

2009-02-09T21:28:00.004-05:00

Okay, I finally did it! Here is the desk tag that Sheri tagged me for and wanted me to participate in. I am feeling a little shy with my pic because Sheri's picture of her desk was so neat and orderly. Anyway, if you don't know me by now I love tags and I love to participate in them because that is just me being BIBI!

Why People LOVE Kids!

2009-02-08T10:07:00.010-05:00

I laughed my head off when my sister-in-law sent it to me. Children are so unpredictable and are such a joy. They really take the dullness out of life one innocent act at a time! Enjoy everyone! I thoroughly did! :D

Should there be an end to Black History Month?

2009-02-07T16:41:00.003-05:00

This article brought to light that many are considering that Black History Month should end. With a new African-American President should that historical event be considered an American achievement or African-American achievement? You decide.