updates!

Life has certainly been uber-busy. That is what the holiday season is all about. I have really enjoyed hanging out and having relaxing time with the family. We have eaten so much good food and I have had a few cocktails. 'Tis the season to live it up and I certainly have been living it up!

So, D and I made the long trek to Miami and truthfully the drive was not bad at all. D did the first stretch and I amazed myself with driving the whole state of Florida...straight! Well we did make a few stops to fill up the ride but I broke my previously held 4 hr maximum drive record! Go me. I think it was the Georgia line Waffle House stop that fueled my push. I LOVE Waffle House! We had passed many and I knew we would stop at least once on the trip. Yummy!

Every time I come home I notice all of the changes. It is so pretty. D noticed the palm trees as soon as we hit the state. So very lush and gorgeous! The beaming sunshine and respectable temps was a bonus too :)

There was not much time to deck the halls before Christmas. I did manage to get all of my shopping done- a 7 am wake-up and mall run pretty much did the trick. I am so glad I waited. The mall near my parents is simply the best. Outside shopping in December with waterfalls and holiday decor can't be beat. Christmas morning was a real celebration. My niece took forever to wake-up so it took a lot to keep N away from the tree. I mean really. I had to sing songs, play games, use on demand television. It was crazy. Finally she was up and we spent an eternity opening gifts. It was ridiculous. Between N and R there were presents on top of presents. And that was before we even saw the other relatives. Yeah, those little ones made out like bandits! It was a great day of fun, good food (homemade rolls!) and family. Can't beat that at all.

And then there was the 26th! My birthday was the best. I think my family really does an awesome job of making sure my day is special. Which as I get older and hear all of this combined birthday-Chrismas nonsense I see how big of a deal it is! Well my Daddy made me a yummy breakfast- I told you there was a lot of good eating- of french toast on challah, bacon egss...delish. Then I went and got a manicure and a pedicure and did some shopping with my Momma. After that I went out to Joe's Stone Crab for a dinner to die for! Appetizers of calamari, chips with crab dip, fried conch fritters followed by steak and stone crabs (super duper yummy) followed with Key Lime Pie and there may have been a cocktail or a few mixed in for good measure. There were many reasons to support Joe's being super well-known. Just great eating. Did I mention my father baked me a triple layer chocolate cake!? Yeah, the 26th was the best. Not to forget I am typing this post on my spanking new MacBook Pro...a birthday gift from my hubby. Totally, freaking, awesome!

And my vacation continues. More good eating, more sunshine, more hanging out with the family. I may never return to the DMV :)

Wow, Awesome just doesn't cover my wonderful day!

Okay, my day was just fantastic. Nico stayed at home with his PaPa so I did not have an am drop off. Good thing number one, check! Then I happen to be driving next to Beeps who promptly called me and encouraged me to stop at Starbucks. Good thing number two, check! My yummy hot-chocolate, good thing number three, so done. Then Beeps gives me my birthday gift because, well I know she was excited but she told me it was because I could get some use out of it before the holiday. I unwrapped.... (for the anticipation and all) lovely, gleaming, sharp as can be pinking shears. Oh wee! So awesome that they come resting on fabric in a lovely metal box! I love em. I am sure these count as good things, 4-10 but I will say number 4, check. And then as if my day could get any better, I won a giveaway on a blog I like. I won two patterns from a cool sewing, crafting blog. Good thing number 5! Yes! All before lunch.

10 holiday things I enjoy

1. Seeing the twinkle of the Christmas tree lights

2. getting gifts ;)

3. wrapping presents and watching the number of gifts grow under the tree

4. listening to Christmas carols...favorite is Gee Whiz It's Christmas

5. Eggnog- a glass or two can last me until the next season

6. unwrapping the ornaments that I haven't thought about for a year

7. seeing the neighborhood transformed

8. the knocks from the UPS man

9. picking what holiday greeting I am going to send

10. spending relaxing time with my family!

Monday Meal Plan

Monday- Mexican corn soup (easy peasy out of the freezer) w/tortilla chips

Tuesday- Slow roasted beef w/ potatoes and carrots and roasted broccoli and cauliflower w/rolls

Wednesday- Pork chops w/ applesauce and steamed spinach

Thursday- Chili w/ rice and corn bread

Friday- Leftovers

Tis the Season for Photo Cards and FREE ones are the best!

Well, years ago people sent cards with trees, snowy nights and wreaths NOW it is all about sending photo cards. Since getting married and having my son, I have totally embraced sending holiday cards. I guess I love showing off my little family. It is not one sided I love getting photo cards. I keep them and see how much the little ones have grown over the year. True story my niece loved the birth announcement/New Year's card that we sent that she carried it around AND refused to share it with her family. I like to think that it was because the card was just so dang cute and not just the fact that she was 2 and a 1/2 at the time. I mean after I obsess over what card to pick, what photo to use and the wording of said card I like to think that it can't be put down or forgotten ;P

So what do I have in mind for this year? Ugh, haven't decided yet. If I don't get it in gear than I will have to send Happy New Year cards. Which I am not opposed to as the past two years- post baby years- I have only managed to get it in gear to send out Happy New Years Cards. I happen to think New Years cards are pretty darn spectacular :) But any way back to the choices. I told you it's hard and Shutterfly has so many amazing choices.

You can go fun and fabulous with a card like this one:

You can do sophisticated and chic:

Or maybe something with the funky, bright colors:

It doesn't really matter because you can't go wrong with any thing you choose. Shutterfly HAS something that speaks to your style! Plus you don't want to spend too much time making your cards because you NEED to get some of the cool photo gifts ordered for all of those hard to shop for folks on your list. My mother has taken over the family calendars but there are still So many ideas, mouse pads, ornaments, stickers, puzzles etc. There is nothing like an adorable little bitty face to make a gift even more celebrated. And lucky me I have one of those little faces running around me as I type ;)

So get in gear!!! I will be checking my mail for your photo holiday card. And if you blog Shutterfly is hosting a great promo for bloggers that could get you 50 free holiday cards- go take a look at the offer http://bit.ly/sfly2010.

S,C,S is the best!

Sewing on Saturday

w/Sarah

and Candice (too bad it's not an S)

made Shanea

superbly satisfied!

a blogation

So what started off as a few days has turned into a mini-blogation. Not that I haven't had blog ideas going all around my head. Because I have- I have done so many things that I wanted to share with all of you. My sewing adventures. My birthday party planning. My holiday prep. And yet it all boiled down to nada. My apologies. Please know that you were not far from my thoughts. I have been reading blogs like crazy and coming up with some cool things to do. There are so many inspirational folks on the interwebz. But the biggest thing that is consuming my mind is the gifts that I need/want to make for Christmas. My list is short which matches the amount of time I have to devote to crafty endeavors. I do have an active little one you guys :)

I am comforted by the many other folks who are busy working on their holiday gifts. My friend Beeps is even hosting an open house this weekend so like minded crafters can get together and craft. Wonderful idea too. A cool blog that I visit is having a Dare To Series and right now she is hosting a Dare to Give Homemade Gifts. I am all in! You should really check out her blog. I like it a lot.

Other blogs that I started visiting on my blogation are:

Another Day in Paradise

33 Shades of Green

Everywhere Orange

Sewing in No Mans Land

Now go check these awesome blogs out. You are bound to be inspired!

Shutterfly

I am always looking for ways to allow N to exist outside of the confines of my Nikon. Yeah, sometimes he gets stuck in there. You know, a little over 2 and I am still printing pictures of him crawling :) Kinda bad. Well we just received a great stack of photos from Shutterfly. Just great! They look fantastic and they shipped super fast. I think we have our spot for where we are going to go to get all of those pictures downloaded. Oh and getting them uploaded was a breeze- I had a couple of options but with the size of pictures I needed to upload- the only real option was downloading the software and doing a fast upload. Quick and now I have all of those long-forgotten pictures. There are some awesome holiday promotions going on right now, maybe N will be multiple gifts ;)

Ten for Tuesday....so thankful!

In honor of Turkey Day and all of that I want to list a few things that I am thankful for. Always have to remember to be grateful.

1. Turkey Day spent with family and the folks that we have chosen as our family.

2. A job that gives me security and a wee bit of flexibility.

3. Supportive folks in my life.

4. People who love my little Nico and shower him with love!

5. Yummy food that I don't have to prepare and actually enjoy eating.

6. Sleeping in- A rare treat but something that I thank D for allowing me the pleasure of doing.

7. My wonderful cousin coming to visit :)

8. N starting a new daycare. I am excited that he will be in an awesome situation!!

9. Finding freebies on line. Love 'em.

10. Packages in the mail. The best kind of mail!!

Gifts, Check!

Nico's last day at his current school is Tuesday. I made a quick and inexpensive gift for his teachers. I made his 3 teachers coasters. Each teacher will get a set of four coasters and a few bags of tea with a personalized thank-you note. I think that they will like them and I like them too. These little guys may become my go to hostess gift, cheaper than wine and they last longer too! :)

Wonderful Wednesday

You know what is wonderful about today:

kisses from Nico

a dinner that is not on the menu

relaxing moments watching the boob tube

snuggles under the blankets

refreshing CranGrape juice

line drying sweaters

what is wonderful about your day?

10 for Tuesday!

1. Even though it is all yucky outside, I am feeling rather happy.

2. Saw some gorgeous pics of some gorgeous girls...I can't wait to see those images on my Christmas card.

3. The busy season has begun. Yikes!

4. I am trying to plan my evening better and they still run away from me. What to do, what to do?

5. We don't have any leftovers from Monday. Did we eat that much or did I cook that little?

6. Some kids I really like have already gotten into some colleges. I get so excited for them. I hold out such hope.

7. Jessica Simpson is engaged. Why is that incredibly funny to me? Maybe they will film it for E.

8. My brain is constantly going. A million miles a million thoughts.

9. People amaze me. Their resilience, generosity, spirit...amazing.

10. There is no time like the present! Life is no dress rehearsal :)

Meal Plan Monday

Monday: Meatloaf, roasted potatoes and steamed spinach

Tuesday: Curry Chicken, rice and veggies

Wednesday: Shrimp stir-fry

Thursday: Leftovers

Friday: Doubtful but... maybe quesadillas

I am so excited! & I just can't hide it.

While I can't take credit for the words from the blog title. I can say that I am stoked. Beeps and I are hosting a sewing for charity event on Saturday and I have a feeling it is going to be awesome. All of the loose ends are being tied and there are only a few things left on our to-do list. No matter what happens on Saturday, I am so happy to be doing something that will make a difference in the lives of so many people so far away. My mom and my Aunt Lois are seriously rock stars. They completed 24 dresses. Yeah that is right TWENTY-FOUR. Awesome, huh? And these are not some simple churn, churn, churn dresses. These dresses have pockets, ruffles, ribbons, lace well you name it, they have it. I am uber-impressed. So I will certainly post after the party but the excitement is building and I am so sure that things will work out great!!!

Craigslist is my friend!

Look at this beauty...

Now my sewing stuff does not have to devour the dining room table. AND for only $10 bucks it was a steal. Great condition. The door opens to reveal a tiny area for supplies and the machine can sit inside if I like. They don't make things like Sears & Roebuck did anymore.

meal plan

The plan for this week is:

Sunday: Baked chicken w/ cabbage and mac & cheese

Monday: Mexican Bean Soup

Tuesday: Chili w/ corn bread

Wednesday: Leftovers

Thursday: Tacos w/ Spanish Rice

Friday: Yeah right :)

toot toot

because I don't toot my own horn nearly enough...here is a message from one of my students....

Dear Mrs. B

I had a blast in your class last year. I loved the fact that we did creative things, like making a game board, instead of purely being a writing class. You are also most likely the nicest teacher that I ever had. It' s really also been a wonderful experience aiding for you this year. Again, you are so nice and patient, I'm not really sure how you do it with your 4B class.

Thank you so much for writing me a letter of recommendation. I truly can not explain how grateful I am. You have been wonderful to me and I am so happy I get to spend the rest of the year working/aiding for you. I can't thank you enough. By the way, you have an excellent fashion sense.

Ok. I already loved this kid, this is just the cherry on top! She even gave me cookies- wrapped all festively I might add.

Yeah, I like my job!

10 for Tuesday the Sister One

My sister forwarded me this article about the joy of having a sister. How talking to a sister leads to greater happiness. Well in honor of that article and in honor of my sister, who will never read this blog. Here is my tribute to Tangela:

1. Having an older sister means having an instant friend. We weren't always friends but our relationship in the past 20 yrs has made up for the rough start ;)

2. My sister always treats me like she has to help me or look out for me no matter the situation.

3. She loves my son as if he were her own and she dotes on him in the most special way.

4. She knows my origin. Some things we never have to explain she just knows.

5. I have always had a great role model.

6. She is my greatest cheerleader.

7. If there is every a big moment in my life, she is always by my side.

8. I enjoy talking to her. She is my buddy and sounding board.

9. Since we are so different she has so many traits that I can appreciate and aspire to have one day.

10. I enjoy who she is, type A personality and all she is one of a kind.

Meal Plan

Monday- Beef Stew w/ baked rolls

Tuesday- Baked chicken w/black beans and rice and veggies

Wednesday- Spinach and Chicken Quesadillas

Thursday Leftovers

Friday- Shrimp and Pasta

The plan is there now I just have to follow through with it :P

3 years

there was roses, beer,lottery tickets, steak,goodies, kind words, am kisses,playing with our son and ceremony watching.

i wouldn't have it any other way.

i wouldn't want to have this moment with anyone else.

i am happy. i am loved.

10 songs

1. Sittin On the Dock of the Bay- timeless and awesome no matter when I hear it

2. Bubbly- N loves this song, he sings it and says more, more

3. Remember the Time- MJ truly was the King

4. What's Going On- Marvin Gaye was cut down too soon

5. Wake Up Everybody- John Legend's version is done very well and it is still fitting

6. 3 Little Birdies- just a sweet song

7. No One- A Keys almost 3 yrs ago, the memories

8. So What- anthem songs are the best

9. Steady Mobbin'-Retro Cube is a must

10. Love the Way You Lie- back and forth it goes

Sister Time!!

(Anthony, one of the children featured in the movie and he is from DC)

My sister and I got to have some much needed bonding time. No husbands or little ones in sight. Good times. First we went to see Waiting for Superman, which really is a must see documentary for anyone who teaches, has kids, likes children, wonders about the state of American Education or just realizes that we need some improvements in our educational system. Yeah, just about everyone. I won't give too much away but truthfully some people are so insulated from schools that are not like their neighborhood schools that this movie serves as a jolt to what is really going on in many classrooms. Well we saw it at AFI in Silver Spring and the theatre is just breathtaking. It really makes you feel like you are at a movie house of a bygone era. The fact that you can get wine along with your popcorn and gummy bears is really just a bonus :) After the movie, we headed to Copper Canyon Grill and had a nice dinner. It was just quiet/dark enough for us to chat and feel removed from the world. Score, score. The food was yummy too. Especially the spinach. Unless you are Popeye you rarely rave about spinach but this was very tasty. Then we wondered around downtime a bit before heading home. It was a fabulous way to spend a Fall Saturday.

Just the kinda day I like!

I had a ball hanging out with my good friend Beeps. We tasted the rainbow, enjoyed a yummy new bread at lunch and visited a lackluster fabric spot....good times!! And the best thing about it all is our efforts for our charity endeavor has begun. It was very easy and the outcome is quite adorable. I see many pillowcase dresses in my future ;)

Ten for Tuesday- The Friend One

10 friends/ 10 traits/ no explanation...in no particular order well except Keisha she always manages to be first charisma and ? prevail :)

1. Za'Keisha- charisma

2.Nicole- spirtuality

3.Jennifer- loyalty

4. Myriam- artistic

5. Toni- humorous

6. Tiffany- thoughtful

7. Candice- easy-going

8. Kelly- kindred spirit

9. Keiva- listener

10. Sigele- passionate

beautiful weekend

the weather was wonderful.

the guys were delightful.

the sewing was abundant.

the meals were yummy.

the relaxation was constant.

the downside is the ending.

My horoscope

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

For Thursday, October 7 -Your words will be ultra keen and sharp as razors now, whether you mean it or not, so you might want to go easy on your coworkers and the people you see on a daily basis -- unless, of course, they start it. In that case, all bets are off, and the temptation to tell one and all that extremely juicy secret you've been holding onto for an interminably long time could suddenly start to become even more difficult than it already has.

© Astrology.com 1996-2

Hey I tried :P

10 for Tuesday although it is almost Thursday

The Grown and Sexy Stuff :)

1. One real sign of getting older is that I would rather listen to silence than listen to some stuff that is in heavy rotation on the radio.

2. Another one? Wife trumps Greasy Hoes. Give me The Real Housewives. Who would watch the stupid Jersey Shore?

3. I watch CNN, pretty darn regularly.

4. I am grown enough to stand up for what I believe in- I don't apologize for being me or having my opinions.

5. Quality beats quantity. A few good friends over a lot of acquaintances.

6. I like my job. It gives me pleasure and fulfillment and it does make a dent in the bills.

7. I like my Momma. I mean really like who she is- her heart, her strength- all of her.

8. I wait in line for things just not concert tickets and cd signings. Although for Cube I could make an exception.

9. I spend more on my son than I do on me ;P

10. Cool is being a man of your word. Taking care of your family and being a good partner. Cool is not tied to what you wear, what you drive or how much swagger you have- cool is still a nice smile.

Pretty damn grown and sexy if you ask me!

Fortune Cookie, hmmm

Sometimes you don't get what you expect when you crack open a fortune cookie. I shook my head when they started including your "lucky numbers" but this is getting a bit ridiculous. Are these jimmies outsourced or did Confucius fall asleep on the job.

Mine: " Handsome is that handsome dose."

D's: "You have a potential urge and the ability for accomplishments."

At least the cookies themselves were rather tasty :P

10 random things for Tuesday

1. Satisfied- my massive to-do list is taking a hit

2. Proud- how I feel when Nico does something amazing

3. Eager- for Friday to come so I can see my Momma

4. Free- for a few hours before it all begins again

5. Sad- missing my bestie-we need a LONG chat

6. Patient- a change is going to come

7. Lonely-my snuggle bunny hasn't joined me yet

8. Frustrated- I still have so much to do

8. Happy- N is going to a new daycare soon

9. Impressed- the conversation about school improvement is happening

10. Pleased- I like me and so many things about my life

i feel so special!

1. I was bombarded at the polls. They want my vote and they want it BAD!

2. My bestie is well the best. I feel the love radiating from my FB message.

3. Nico hugs me and kisses me and tells me how much he LOVES me. The best!

4. I got a cool sticker for just doing my civic duty :)

5. I got some good mail.

6. I had the day off :)

7. We have leftovers for dinner- I have the night off :)

8. Some really great conversations with my buddies.

9. the people who love Nico. He is so lucky to have some awesome folks in his life.

10. Well, why shouldn't I- life is GRAND!

Wahoo, it's football season!!

Sunday Night, Monday Night and all day Sunday! I love it! College ball or the pros it doesn't matter, I am ready for some football! Dolphins beat Buffalo on day 1- it is gonna be a great season :)

Fun times!

Yesterday I had a wonderful sewing day with my with my buddy Beeps! She made me a yummy lunch of pulled pork sandwiches. It was even tastier since she starved me first :) I enjoyed my time tremendously and look at the awesome stuff we did while we chatted and laughed...blankets, bibs, place mats, appliqued onesies, burp cloths, oh my!

I won! I won!

Part of being a blog follower is entering contests to win things. As a person with all kinds of craft loves, there probably isn't a crafty blog that I don't enjoy. As a follower of Crazy Train,I won a giveaway for wash cloth puppets- yes N will now be getting washcloth puppets. Fun, fun, I won!!

3 day weekends

An observation. They past way too quickly. You try to pack them with all kinds of fun stuff only to realize it is Sunday night and you only have one more day. And geez that day is a fun day too. Man on Tuesday I am going to feel like I never left the place :0

I forgot!

How incredibly exhausting it is to teach! Wow, I am beat. My students were ok and the day went by pretty quickly but I am so tired. It is hard to give 100% in this way. Being home with N is really a lot harder but today required a lot of being completely on. I know it gets a lot easier and I am so looking forward to when it slacks off a bit. Between the getting up early, the marathon homeroom and helping the little lost ones find their classes, it was a LONG one!!

5, 4, 3, 2, 1....

5 meals to plan for the week, better get to that!

4 teaching days before teacher work day/3 day weekend

3 self beautification needs before work- hair, pedicure, eyebrows

2 notes to mail to people I love

1 wonderful Sunday to spend hanging out with my men

10 things that have made me smile

1. running into a few of my students in the hall

2. seeing a friend's grandchildren

3. chasing N by just being in his vacinity

4. finding a thank-you note from someone

5. the lies that my co-irker tells

6. having a few moments to myself

7.having my village on call for emergency childcare

8. getting close to having my room done

9. loosing track of time b/c of good conversation

10. kisses from N

a day late but I was just too tired yesterday :)

one more day

oh m, oh my, the summer is a wrap! one more day and then it will be back to the grind. there are a few positives to the whole returning to work thing: having a job obviously, a fresh start, new relationships and having more of a routine. i am hopeful that this yr will be better than the last both personally and professionally.

but i will not rush tomorrow. i am planning on waking up super early and taking N to school and then coming home to silence. i may sit around naked and enjoy the serenity. i can't commit to any more than that after all there is only.... one more day.

Sometimes

We forget how amazing we are. How just the thoughts we think set us apart from so many others. And then we get down on ourselves and think about all of the ways that we come up empty instead of all the ways that our cup really is running over. It is so easy to feel discouraged or overwhelmed. He never gives us more than we can handle. He knows our strengths. Our greatness. So many times others see it and believe in it more than we do. And sometimes, most times really, we are more than enough, we are greater than our hesitations and really only our fears keep us from soaring.

10 things I have been too lazy to google search

1. if Wolf Blitzer is his real name?

2. the info about the SC mom drowning her daughter

3. when exactly Chelsea Handler will be in Baltimore

4. the dates that are available for D and I to take our sight seeing cruise

5. who Ray is from The Ultimate Merger w/Lady O (as she was so annoyingly called)

6. ideas for b-day gifts for N

7. the deal behind Danielle getting kicked off Real Housewives

8. pictures of Alicia Keys pregnant and married

9. recipes

10. ticket prices for a trip to Fla.

yay! yay!

I am so happy. I picked a new dentist. This lovely dentist comes on the heels of a craptastic dentist who always made me feel rushed. He was the pits. I went in and complained of tooth pain and he saw nada. He was very relaxed and didn't see what the issue was. I felt the pain and I knew something was the matter. Well, today I went to a new dentist who was great and she determined that the filling is old and needs replacing. Yay! While the pain was not consistent, I always trust myself and I knew it. Yay, for getting rid of that other buzzard and double yay for finding a new dentist who seems pretty good so far.

10 People who should be exiled on a deserted island

1. Mel Gibson, hope he just mumbles and rants to himself

2. Sarah Palin, she sets the human race back every single time she opens her mouth

3. Elizabeth Hasselbeck- see # 2

4. Montana Fishburne- to save her from her 20 yr old self

5. Bill O'Reilly- just ugh

6. Jon Mayer- he is annoying

7. Lindsey Lohan- if she is going to be a waste, she may as well be far, far away

8. Levi and Bristol- young and dumb, enuf said

9. Lady Gaga- just waiting for the hint of real talent to reveal itself

10. The entire cast of the Real Housewives of NJ- watching their family vacation was like being tortured

gonna be a good day

N and I are going shopping with my sister.a nice day of hanging out and chatting and maybe having some yummy food. it is gonna be a good day :)

10 for Tuesday! Why I LOVE being Nico's Mommy!

1. His expressions, he knows trouble and he knows those eyes are his get out of it free card. I fold, he wins.

2. His laugh. This boy is so happy. He is always laughing and I love it.

3. The small little hugs he gives me. When he just reaches over and hugs me without prompting, love 'em.

4. He makes the days fly by and go incredibly slow at the same time.

5. He notices everything. The wonder in his eyes as he looks at the world. Amazing.

6. Play time. It is so fun to party like a kid. N gives me that chance.

7. Him sleeping in my arms. That is what they mean when they say sleeping like a baby- the way it feels holding him and the peace that you feel when you have them in your arms. Don't actually confuse it w/ the amount of time a baby sleeps.

8. Watching him grow and change and realizing just when I think I can't love him more I do.

9. The way he looks at me. I am the sun, moon and stars to him. That is so cool.

10. He is not afraid of anything. He hasn't met a beat he hasn't swayed his bum to. He has no issues sharing his likes or dislikes. He makes me love more and sweat the small things less.

I just love this boy!

Yikes!

Bad, bad blogger! I feel like I haven't blogged in forever. To be honest I have been spending all moments kissing on Nico and hanging out with R that I haven't had the energy to blog. Oh well it is a new day, heck it is a new month so let's get back to the grind. So this will be very random as I have so many things to share :)

* Ok, have you ever ordered anything from Home Shopping Network? Or a something like that? I feel like I have before. Maybe once and it was scrapbook stuff. Well yesterday I was SO tempted. I am sure it was the constant reminders from a company and just the intrigue of it all but I was so tempted to call in and purchase......... Mary J. Blige's perfume, My Life. Yeah, I did not but it was a sure test of willpower. I am not even a perfume person but something about her selling it and only to HSN and her talking to the viewers made me want to get. Also Carol's Daughter ( an amazing, amazing company who makes so many things I LOVE) was sending out reminders on FB. They almost had me!

*I am really enjoying sewing. It is so fun. I enjoy making things with my hands and making stuff for my little one is the best. Next to sewing, reading sewing/crafting blogs is so inspiring. There are so many talented people on the interwebz. I am so inspired. Stay tuned for some great things from the kid :)

*TI is married. Le sigh.

*I am having a reality tv conflict...so many shows are on at the same time. And I refuse to dvr the insanity so each night I have to pick one. Choices.Choices.

*I have a jam packed week ahead. Looking forward to seeing some buddies.

* My friend reminded me I have 3 weeks until I return back to work. Double yikes.

* I so enjoyed spending time with my folks and grandparents. My grandparents are so cool. They have been married 64 yrs. Did you hear that sound? Yeah, it was my gasp of astonishment. I know they say until death do us part...but 64 yrs. I can't imagine.

Well, that seems like info overload to me. Gotta go.

I Really LIKE Catalog Living

Out of the closet…

While Gary and Elaine were in the kitchen getting popcorn, the brave yellow sweater attempted its escape.

If you have not discovered Catalog Living you really should. It is SO funny. I know I have wondered the same thing as I flipped through the pages of my favorite catalogs. Who the heck lives here? So from my brain to these posts...

10 things I can't wait to do when N gets home!!

1. Kiss him a bagillion times.

2. Smell him.

3. Show him the goodies that I got him.

4. Take him swimming.

5. Read him his favorite stories.

6. Take him to a concert in the park.

7. Measure him on his growth chart.

8. Hug him tight.

9. Watch him sleep.

10. Tickle him until he laughs that amazing laugh.

The Temptation of Target

Oh, how I love that store. You all are probably familiar with the routine. Go in for one thing and come out with reusable bag upon reusable bag filled to the hilt. Well, I am proud to say I haven't been to Target in over 3 weeks, well on my way to my month away from the bullseye goal that I set for myself when I made my 101 list. Yay! I can say that it was easier than I expected. I really did not miss the place. I have made do with the things that I have and really haven't had one thing I have needed. I guess that speaks to my ability to have things in bulk. Although, I did not plan for my month away hiatus it just came to me and I said I would run with it. So what do I attribute my success to? Well, a few things. N is away so I haven't had the need to get things that he "needs", no Happy 4th T-shirt for my little one. Also, we had all of the toilet paper and soap we needed. Not using paper towels ensures that we wouldn't run out of them. So no real draw. I haven't needed a last minute accessory, shirt or tights to wear to work either. Just no real need for the place. And what is more. I think I will continue this thing. Not saying I won't go to Target at all but not making my weekly or more trips to the place has to be good for my wallet. So I accepted the challenge and am certainly better for it. Go me!

an earthquake, really?

3.6 magnitude that wakes you up...too freaking crazy!

10 for Tuesday!

Are you ready? Are you excited? Are you at the edge of your seats?

It's about that time! Ten things I am lovin'!

1. hearing about Nico's adventures, he is having a ball and staying very busy

2. my husband

3, watching re-runs of The Cosby Show, all these years later and that show is hilarious

4.blueberries, we are going through so many of these. Like a container every other day. Crazy.

5. People.com ...gettin' my celebrity watch on

6. fresh salsa, yummy and making our dinners very Mexican

7. my social calendar

8. laundry...I kid, I kid

9. sewing, pretty fun until...the assorted things that slow me down

10. snuggle time in my bed and having the house to myself

Historical

ALWAYS LOVED THIS GUY

But adding these guys in the mix can't hurt !!!

Let's GO HEAT!!

*&^% the police!!

Now don't get me wrong I don't hate all cops. But this ish is just unfreakingbelievable! The verdict for the Oakland Transit Officer who shot a handcuffed man is in and mistaking your gun for a taser seems to be acceptable. Really? I am not a taser or gun expert but I would think that by shooting anything TWICE you would kinda know what you were using. If you haven't followed this case I am linking an article for your reading. But the long and short of it is a person who was sworn to protect and serve has taken a man's life.

What turned a simple arrest into this tragedy? Did the suspect reach for a weapon? Did he maneuver his handcuffed hands out of the restraints and attack? From numerous recordings provided by witnesses that doesn't appear to be the case. The officer has apologized. He claims that it was a mistake but I doubt it. I think so many of his irrational fears caused him to act the way that he did. Perhaps he allowed his emotions to blind his intelligence. Doesn't really matter, a man is dead and that can't be erased. The people of Oakland are incensed. The blood of another black man is on the hands of a cop. Justice has decided to take a vacation, so the officer is not guilty of murder. If not murder, than what? What crime seems to truly define what he has done. Seems pretty much like murder to me and a uniform, a taser, a gun and a few years on the force should not allow you immunity.

Retro NWA seems all too current:

F*&^ the police comin straight from the underground
A young n---- got it bad cause I'm brown
And not the other color so police think
they have the authority to kill a minority

10 for Tuesday!

Too many things floating around in my head to be contained to one topic. I am going to keep it random :P

1. J. Prince from Rap-A-Lot records has the coolest voice. I told D that if I were a teenager and there wasn't caller id, I would crank call him. He would make hearing a grocery list sound smooth. If I were his waitress, I wouldn't need a tip just hearing him order would be the best. "I want my eggs, scrambled, over easy." It would make me giddy.

2. I really don't like shows like America's Got Talent, So You think You Can Dance etc. I just don't really care. I can't tell who sounds good and if you sound really bad, I don't want to hear it.

3. Rappers are so smooth. Just think Lil Wayne and TI got one year sentences for violating their parole or whatever and they took it. Lindsey Lohan gets 90 days...3 months and she is sobbing like a baby. Now I know that this is not something to give the fellas props for but my goodness if you snub your nose at the law, you should put on your big girl panties and do your bid without the dramatics.

4. Reconnecting with old friends on FB is pretty nice. Especially when you find out what neat lives your friends have for themselves. One of my old friends/classmates is so talented and his artwork is phenomenal. I can't wait to buy one of his works to have in my home. So FB is good for something.

5. N is away and we are doing ok. We miss our little man but he is always in such good spirits when we call so we know it a wonderful opportunity for him.

6. Waiting for Wade. Will he leave or will he stay? Ugh, I wish he would make his decision. Don't leave the MIA. The Bulls are courting him and LeBron, they must have big bucks in the Chi.

7. Summer is the best season. Not the 100 plus degree temps but the actual slower pace, fruity drinks and general hanging out makes it the best.

8.I am glad we don't have any snacks in the house cause I am feeling snacky. Not really hungry but a handful of cookies would be nice right about now. Between not packing a lunch (yay, summer) and N being away we don't have the normal staples. Oh, some goldfish would be delish right about now.

9. Researching N's dietary restrictions has introduced me to some really cool blogs. I am SOOOOOO glad that his allergies are not as bad as some of the other babes I have come across. It just seems like allergies are such a life changing thing. Some families have certainly figured it all out and I am trying to learn from them.

10. The best person you can be is you. Look to your friends but realize that what works or is best for them isn't necessarily what works for you. Work on being your most authentic self...it is the surest path to happiness and fulfillment. That is my Oprahism for you guys :)

not sure

if it was the

turkey burgers

beef burgers

corn on the cob

crab legs

homemade cookies

baked beans

bratwursts

watermelon

brownies

assorted mixed drinks

or dancing for hours with the family

but i woke up quite satisfied after the 4th!!

the Wow of Women

Yes, we are too hard on ourselves. Our bodies are not trim enough, our friendships are too complicated, our faces are showing signs of age and that couldn't be you in that reflection. We see our flaws and we miss our strength. This morning I had the pleasure of watching the Wow of Women as I watched Serena Williams win Wimbledon again (the 4th time). Her body and strength is unmatched. Her skill in her sport is amazing. And it got me to thinking about all of the great women out there. The mother's who rock their babies on their hips while making a balanced dinner for the family. The mom's who put off their dreams to nurture their daughter's to dream their big dreams. The women who put pen to paper and write stories that need to be told. Oh where would we be without the women who dared so that we wouldn't have to. Girls do hold up the world and I really wish that women could hold onto that knowledge that their is so much WOW about women.

Not to be all political

But. Don't be afraid of the but as you knew it was coming. Everyone knows that I cloth diaper N and I really support cloth diapers. I am constantly reminded of how wonderful cloth is for both my son and the environment. They have been super easy to use and have prevented us from every having to make a late night run to the store for insert plastic diaper name here. tee hee. I am amazed by all of the options, your little one can be comfy in a simple prefold with snappis (picture the ones with pins) or an expensive designer one that you can put on ebay afterwards. Yeah, the range is just that great.

Well there is a movement to bring cloth diapers back to hospitals. Before you get all weirded out and come up with a dozen excuses about why this can't work. Think about it? Disposable diapers are relatively new so up until a little bit ago cloth was THE diaper so hospitals have been using them for eons. So the gist of it is that we (myself included) want babies to have a healthy, eco friendly start. So support the cause to get cloth diapers in hospitals.

it just bites

It really just bites when the blogs you love disappear. And by disappear, I mean the blogher just stops posting. It leaves you in a lurch and starts the whole what ifs in your mind. I have followed a few blogs that have just bitten the dust and it truly is such a void. Poof, one disappears to maybe write a book or take a job or something. Another disappears to start a store. Some just vanish....whateves. It just seems like once you have amassed a huge following, talking the thousands, you should not just vanish. Yes, I realize that people have lives and such but really. It just bites.

I would love it if the blogs you like had some type of guarantee that if they are awesome and super useful they won't disappear atleast until they are no longer relevant. Maybe the originator could retire for a bit and insert equally talented, interesting and witty bestfriend or twin, sister etc. The readers would be ok because it would just flow the same. Yes, I am probably over thinking things a bit but blogs are like on-line advice columns. You wouldn't expect Miss Manners or Dear Abby to go poof. Why because even though those people have died they have been replaced and who really cares who the original Dear Abby was (no disrespect)! So from now on, I am going to refrain from blog loyalty. I won't follow anyone. I will bounce from blog to blog just seeing what is out there and moving on before I get too connected. My sensibilities cannot take it when they go MIA.

Probably not really gonna happen but that is how I feel at this moment. Ugh.

what i learned today

Taking a moment to do something that I may not feel like doing can really make my husband's day. I was relaxing in my bed after a half day of work and remembered that I had a chicken in the fridge that needed cooking. I did not let my relax, chill mode prevent me from making dinner for my sweetheart. I baked the chicken, sweet potatoes and steamed some broccoli. Added a few dinner rolls and viola a real meal. I know it pleased him because he told my Aunt that it is his favorite and he went back for seconds. So what I learned was the more I give to the people I love the happier my home is... easy peasy :)

10 tests

1. Pregnancy- passed that one and it changed my life.

2. Driving- failed it the first time at 18! Who knew you had to look back when you reverse :( The second time was the charm.

3. 9th grade Assessments- yawn, yawn...even the cartoons on these are boring

4. Praxis- there really should be a harder test to become a teacher. Well I guess the real test of teaching is if you survive the first year.

5. SAT- oh, my the hours I spent preparing for that one. Glad that I never have to take it again. They have since added an essay and I can't imagine how that would work for me.

6. the purity test- I have never taken this one and it is blocked at work so I will have to try it later. has anyone taken such a thing?

7. Vision- I may need to schedule one....everything is quite blurry. I don't know if I can blame it on looking at this laptop for too long.

8. Gender prediction tests- 50/50 chance on that one... I did have a boy.

9. Oh, this is getting hard. Let's see.....the every day test of my patience that is D. Well surprisingly he is doing very well and I am loving him :)

10. I am stumped. No 10 for Tuesday. I am such a failure. Please don't hold it against me.

What tests have you taken?

(this topic was brought to you by by sidekick at assessment writing MJ- no relation to the king of pop)

ha ha

In bed, surfing the net, eating a blow pop. All by myself!

10 things I am looking forward to this summer

1. Sunshine

2. trips to the pool

3. long talks with Bestie

4. hanging out w/my sewing machine

5. sleeping in

6. staying up late

7. dates with D

8. bright toenail polish

9. watching too much tv

10. each and every moment

full weekend, bring on summer!

My weekend was extremely packed and fun-filled. I stayed up late Friday sewing, Saturday was make-up, shopping,lunch, book-club, swimming and playing! You are tired, right? I had a blast hanging out with TMJ and the other ladies at the Book-Club. I promise to finish the book next time :)

Father's Day began with a yummy breakfast prepared by me and my side-kick N. Spicy shrimp and grits with homemade blueberry muffins.....so delish! Then it was relaxing as a family. N got D a Michael Jackson themed gift. It was quite fitting as they watched This Is It together before he even opened his gift. So in N's gift bag for his Daddy was a Pepsi w/ My Pop is King Label, a book, a dvd of videos, interviews etc and a homemade card w/ N's hand as the sequined glove and a note w/songs by MJ to describe their relationship. So D loved it!

Status Update

My cousin asked me for a status update on my 101 in 100 days and lets just say, I suck :) No really, I have a lot of work to do on my list. Good thing the summer is coming and the living is easy. I will get to it pronto. Cause 25 ish is not good :(

Thurgood Performance

How cool is it that my sister had an extra ticket to a sold out performance? We're talking fifth row, could see Laurence Fishburne spit close. We're talking, hello I think he was speaking directly to me, close. Yeah, pretty freaking cool. Yesterday my sister texted me during work to see if I would be available to go with her to see the sold out performance of Thurgood at the Kennedy Center. Of course, I am so available. And I am so glad that my schedule was open and so glad that my sister gets the best seats! We had a ball. I got all dolled up and headed to the city on a Thursday night, rather grown and sexy if I do say so myself. So on to the show.

I was blown away. Just utterly impressed! The Howard University emblem hanging dead-center, high- above the stage was all the welcome I needed. ( 3 0f the 5 of us were/are HU students...so we had our chests puffed out :) And then it started, 2 1/2 hous of young Thurgood, old Thurgood, the women, the challenges, the struggles, the alcohol, the love and the loss. Just floored. I learned all sorts of cool things about him. It was amazing to watch Fishburne change his body and his accents and become all of these different people. Little Larry has grown up. From Boys in the Hood to Thurgood... nothing but love!

10-----THINGS that I am Glad aren't 10

1. Nico's bedtime

2. days left in school

3. the price of gas per gallon

4. the number of kids I want

5. the number of husbands I have

6. dollars in my bank account

7. number of friends on Facebook

8. channels on tv

9. students who are failing my class

10. things I am too afraid to try

sew, you think you can ruffle?

or applique? well when we go in we go all in. C and I spent an awesome day sewing, sipping and chatting. just a nice way to hang out with a friend. really a win-win. we munched on some goodies and used up a bunch of limes. yes, you missed a great time. i cant wait to use my newly acquired skills a bit more and i hate to say it but i am not accepting any custom orders at this time ;D

just as an aside. i love reading sewing blogs. well most blogs really. there is one blog that does a weekly feature on things that her readers have made. i decided to link my dress to her blog because she inspires me and i have learned a lot from her tutorials. Andrea at The Train To Crazy is so talented!

looking forward to the weekend

I still have a small number of research papers to grade but I will finish them up in the next couple of days. So I am planning on getting some fun in this weekend too. I want to hang out with my men and cuddle with Nico. All things that grading got in the way of. Lucky for me N is willing to wake me up way early to start the festivities :) I have some sewing time planned with my friend Beeps. My sister is taking N to a picnic tomorrow. The weather looks beautiful so no complaints from me!

a day late 10 random things

1. sorry i didn't post yesterday, i hate letting my loyal readers down. i kid. i kid.

2. i was so tired yesterday, my eyes were burning and i couldn't bring myself to post.

3. i have embraced not cooking dinner this week. if you are older than 2 you have to find your own grub. it has been a breeze.

4. i am taking tomorrow off to grade papers. not really a Me day but it should be nice.

5. the school year is almost over. happy dance :)

6. i am looking forward to my sewing date. i need to start posting pictures of my projects. well there haven't really been projects per say but there are things that i can post.

7. what would you do for a Klondike bar? well right now i would love some chocolate. not a klondike bar but something w/hershey's in the title would be spot on.

8. have you hugged someone today? i feel like i have needed a lot of hugs this week. thank gosh i got 'em.

9. i slept like a baby last night. not my baby. but a baby who sleeps through the night. and is so peaceful. i slept like that for most of the night.

10. the countdown to summer is officially on. i am so looking forward to getting my relax on :)

Take it all for a few extra hours!

I need a few more hours. Twenty-four just seems inadequate. I am sure I should be grateful but really 24 just isn't enough. I need more time to do the fundamental things like sleep but also the cool things like sew, go for walks and make tasty treats. Yeah, I need a few more hours. I can't believe it is 9:35 on a Sunday weekend and my weekend is gone and my to-do list has more to-do than what has been done. Oh me, oh my. You never want to start a week in the hole but hey there isn't much I can do about it at this point.

Yes, I am probably being too hard on myself. I have done a bunch of stuff this weekend. I hung out w/my men. Went on a walk, played at the park, went to church and graded more research papers than any person should. Hey, I even sat down and colored- inside and outside the lines. And cleaned crayon off the wall- the Magic Eraser is a must even if how it does what it does is a mystery. I fed my baby well and introduced him to new fruits. I read him stories and made up all sorts of voices to keep him amused. So it was far from a bust. I just would like a few more hours to mindlessly veg out before the reality of a new work week starts. I would trade in some pretty cool things for a mere 60 minutes, so if you have any pull let me know and we can work something out!

10 things that inspire me

1. Reading What I know for Sure in Oprah's magazine. Reading about things that she finds life changing is truly inspirational.

2. Nicole- my sister/friend who has been through more than any one person should and yet she is always so positive and upbeat.

3. Looking at older people. You know the people who are 70 plus and seem to have lived a million lives. Just amazing.

4. seeing my hubby with n, that is love.

5. Bestie's dreams. If I have to live vicariously through someone it may as well be my Best.

6. turning off the tv- I have some pretty deep thoughts when I am allowed to be at one with them.

7. Mothers. Not those crazy bitties who don't want to act their age or be there for their kids but the REAL women who embrace each chapter of their lives.

8. true love.

9. Nico.

10. Writers. Pen to paper, big thoughts and personal triumph.

Ten for Tuesday- Terrific Things about ME!!

Since M, twisted my arm and all :)

1. I am very thoughtful.

2. I am a good friend. My friends mean the world to me and I work hard at honoring those relationships.

3. I laugh often. Life is too short to get caught up in being miserable.

4. I am a good Momma. Yeah, toot-toot!

5. I love learning new things and pushing myself. Hello, sewing :P

6. Have you tried my lasagna? I am not afraid to say that I can make a few awesome meals.
7. So creative, that is me.

8. I am patient.

9. I can keep a secret...for ever and a day.

10. I am ME. Which is pretty darn sexy, smart and sassy!

your turn--- feel free to comment 10 more great things about me or 10 about you!

ten for tuesday

I couldn't think of anything to write about. So send your suggestions :)

The Happiness Post

a few things that would make me happy this week....now I gotta make sure that they happen.

* a long conversation with my Best where we get to brainstorm monumental stuff

* finishing the spring cleaning of my bedroom

* completing my sewing projects

* going on a date with D

* a manicure

Happy End of the Weekend...hello New Week!!

Happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day was a blast! I had a good time hanging out with my two favorite fellas. My son makes me abundantly happy and so fulfilled. He keeps me super busy but for the most part I am all smiles when he is allowing me to hold him. This is the best job I have ever had with the greatest benefits!!

Ten for Tuesday!!

You know you wanna.

1. That reminds me of Al B. Sure. Which reminds me of a night in Vegas when he grabbed the mic and embarrased himself. It was also a night I embarassed myself so it is all good.

2. I am enjoying learning to sew. I have so many creations floating around in my mind. I hope I don't loose interest. FYI Joann's offers a discount to teachers on top of sale/coupon prices. YAY!

3. Cleaning house. It goes much better/faster without Nico at my feet. I picked him up yesterday at 5 and I felt so accomplished. I got a bunch of stuff done so we were able to relax as a family together which was nice.

4. I am trying to limit my at home tv/computer use. I know clutch the pearls. Sometimes it feels like that stuff is such noise. Spring is the time to open windows, eat outside and relish those moments. I am working on that :)

5. Day 2 of the Journey. Day 1 went well. I am excited and I hope D is enjoying the journey.

6. Accepting a compliment. Why is that so hard? I am always apologizing/explaining when people compliment me. I am going to try just saying a heartfelt thanks.

7. Speaking of compliments, my sister said that a guy held a door for her twice, or through both doors of the double doors and it made her day. Made her day. I am sure he didn't know he was making her day. He was just being considerate. It is really cool how you can impact someone's day.

8. Friends. I am so glad I have good ones.

9. Is it June yet? Not rushing the year but sleeping in will be divine.

10. My little boy is going to Florida for weeks this summer. WEEKS! Did you hear me people, WEEKS!! What will I do with myself? How will I manage!

Winner, winner chicken dinner

Sunday- Spaghetti, string beans and garlic toast

Monday- Baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, veggies

Tuesday- Manicotti with spinach

Wednesday- Leftovers

Thursday- Pizza with salad

Friday- out

I am such the domestic :)

The Journey

A few months ago I bought a great book The Love Dare about building up your marriage. It is based on integrating prayer and spirituality into your marriage.I showed it to D and we never really got into it. I hope that we revisit it because I truly believe that it is a very useful tool. So in researching the book, I found out about a 40 day Love Dare that you can do by yourself. I think I am going to do it and not tell D. I want to see how he responds to these gestures and my improvements without him knowing what I am doing. Will our relationship grow and improve as a result of The Dare? I hope so. I am always down for a good journey.

And for those who are wondering. We are not in a bad place and I am not mad at him. I was doing some soul searching and without working at it nothing improves. I am all about improving us and strengthening our foundation.

Sew what?

Sew C and I spent a lovely Saturday am gabbing and sewing. I had a great time. C is no novice. The quilt she is making is SOOOOOOOOO awesome. I mean like take a pause and take it all in awesome. That girl has some serious skills. I am glad I walked away with a cool project and I can't believe that I sewed something. I am learning my machine, the more I use it the more comfy I get. What will my next project be? I think I will keep it under wraps. Yeah, that is the only clue that you will get.

So if you want to read all about our sewing adventures, check this out:

http://beepsnrays.blogspot.com/2010/05/not-ugly-car-trash-bag.html

Yesterday

I thought I could start planning for a ME day. Well glad I did not do that since my little N is sick today and I have to use my day for taking care of him. I participated in this twitter party for a cloth diapering store and it was so fun. It was an hour long session of rapid-fire questions/comments and prizes mixed in too. It was cool. No I did not win anything but they did give you a free diaper credit in your account so the next time I order from them I can get me a free diaper. I guess that is winning. Anyway. It was cool and I can see why a business would want to do something like that. It was the #4 of all Twitter traffic for the time period so all of these people were posting things like "what the heck is diaper shops!", that was funny.

So my yesterday was cool but I am really looking forward to my today!

10 for Tuesday...back in the day

Today's post is about 10 memories from back in the day. Enjoy!

1. Going to Universal Studios with my Momma. Everyone should take a mother-daughter trip. We did and we had a great time, I have the pictures to prove it too :)

2. Going to NY with Z freshman year. We wore flannels, we stayed with virtual strangers and we shopped with money from who knows where. It was Z's first time in the big apple. A true once in a lifetime experience.

3. Toilet papering our high school for a senior prank with Lori. Imagine keeping a straight face the next day in class, not easy.

4. Reading books by night light and talking with my sister when we had to go to bed. We used to write messages on each others backs and you had to figure out what we were spelling. Fun times.

5. Taking art at RR Moton. My teacher was so cool and encouraged us to tap into our creative spirit.

6. Running out to meet my daddy when he got home from work. He would always bring me those hard candies and he was so happy to see me.

7. Getting my neon phone. I wanted that thing so bad. The downside, the room would light up when the phone rang, not good for late night phone calls.

8. My roommate freshman yr who used to tell me, "I need Jesus" and get annoyed when I listened to my music.

9. Going on the dinner cruise for Jennifer's birthday. We felt so grown-up and I remember thinking I was looking SO cute.

10. Trying to buy liquor before we turned 21 and pretending we could not understand the store owner when she was asking for id. She sold us the Boone's Farms and Lesli and I were sure we were drunk from the shared half a bottle we consumed.

So what are some of your back in the day memories that always make you smile?

and

Equal happy me! Ok, just as a status update. The bobbin is working and I have sewn some stitches. I had to have my mom walk me through the process. She was on line looking at the instructions while talking to me and I was able to finally understand what it takes to get that machine rolling. I had a great time playing around. I can't wait until I get some more time to fiddle with my machine. My Bestie bought me this cool book. A nice surprise at the end of a LONG day. I was thrilled. Each page has something neat and it doesn't look too difficult.

I went to Wal-Mart (because it is close by) to pick up a yard of fabric for a project and wouldn't you know the location near me no longer sells fabric! Now, I am not sure if it is a store by store decision but that bites. To think I braved the crazy parking lot and other insanity to not even get a yard of fabric. Ugh, I guess I will have to stop off at Joann's one day soon. I know you all can't wait to see some of my originals ;)

10 for Tuesday!

You know you long for it and I aim to please. I feel like I have been a bad blogger so today's post will be about all of the fabulous things I have been up to since last Tuesday!

1. Go me! My sewing machine is in the house! Amazon.com rocks and I feel like it was here before I ordered it good. My mom says it is because they don't want you to change your mind. Anyway, 60 stitches here I come.

2. On Saturday night we went out to dinner with LJ to a wonderful little spot in DC called Creme.Oh the food was great. My lovely Pomegranate Cosmo was divine and the company was the best. My sister and brother-in-law stopped on the tail end of their date night and we chatted it up with them. It was a wonderful night.

3. We missed church on Sunday. I was exhausted!

4. Covering a class and working a Saturday school session gave me extra money on my paycheck. Yay!

5. I have assigned my research papers which is a HUGE load off of my shoulders. I am sure I will be complaining when the time comes to grade those Jimmies.

6. Family time is the best. I got to hang out with a lot of the people I love this weekend and you know what? I love it!

7. Ok, I watched The Cleveland show again and it is so funny. I mean LOL funny and really how often do you LOL?

8. You know how you are irrationally annoyed by something. One of my co-workers does something that irks me. I should not be irked. It has zilch to do with me and yet I get so batty about it. I will have to work on that.

9. I can almost feel how close it is to summer. Not summer in the calendar since but summer with no more teachers, no more books. I think I can make it. "I think, I can. I think I can!"

10. I love my husband. Yes, I do. I love my husband, how bout you? Well you can love D but I was really asking you about yours :)

she got lucky!

My Best is enjoying her life sans hubby. You know those handsome men who you love but .... Well no need to dwell on the buts. Anyway her husband is away for about a week and she gets to eat her Bon Bons and lounge in her robe. Me? Well Bestie's hubby is here. So, I picked up an extra husband. It is not fair. It is not fair. I don't think any carefree moments are heading my way. And the logical conversations will be hard to come by :)

10 things I have done since I got home from work

Don't you wish your life was thrilling like mine?

1. Read books to Nico

2. Cooked dinner

3. washed two loads of clothes

4. packed Nico's bag for tomorrow

5. chatted with my Best

6. took out the recycling

7.made some iced tea

8. answered a few emails

9. cleaned up the kitchen

10. put away toys

there. now I know where the time went :P

all of my happiness still fits in my hands

10 for Tuesday the Miami edition

1. loving hanging out with the fam

2. enjoyed visiting the Miccosukee Indian Reservation

3. Easter BBQ was delish

4. sleeping in is wonderful

5. toes out

6. little quaint craft stores

7. Publix....no cake yet

8. alligator wrestling, oh my

9. shopping at the Falls

10. sunshine, loads of sunshine

My Spring Break is to be envied. It is ridiculously wonderful, greatly needed and highly appreciated!

in mourning

Last night, I found out that two of my former students were charged with murder. And it was utterly senseless and they are probably guilty. In all 5 people are dead. 5 people like me. Gone before they had the chance to live. I am so sad. All of the lives that ended because people weren't given the chance.

Now I am not letting the brothers (my former students off the hook at all) but how did we fail them? How as a society did we fail them? They were gone before they took their first steps. Gone in the sense their mother laid with their father a known thug/hoodlum and had multiple sons with him. Sons that he would not raise because he was in prison and sons she couldn't raise. Because black boys need black men to lead them. It is just easier that way. How could the personable, friendly, thoughtful boy who arranged a surprise party for me have turned into a monster? A person who could shoot down beautiful black faces in their prime? Where the fuck did he get an AK-47? See we failed him. It is too simple to paint him as a terror and remove ourselves from the equation. I can't believe that he is evil to the core. I knew that other side of him. Why do so many people in those situations live in the extreme. Either the wonderful loving boys I knew or these villains. Either the first of the month and you have food and mom is happy or the 29th and the fridge is bare and mom is on a tare. Where is the middle and how can we help them find it?

I feel like I abandoned them. My 20 something idealistic, going to change the world and take all of my people with them vanished.

And beyond them and the situation, how do I raise my son to be a man in this world. I can instill values in him and love him beyond words and his fate could be sealed by a person who had nothing to live for. It just seems so unfair. So freakin' unfair but so real.

I am rambling. I am mourning for the little boys that I knew and the men that they never will be. I am at a lost. We failed them and when we fail them, we fail ourselves.

3/31

a wonderful day to celebrate my sister and bestfriend too. Happy Birthday Tangela & Za'Keisha!

10 for Tuesday the Green Post

Today I am going to focus on 10 little green things that I am doing to help this place that I call home.

1. Recycling- D takes down the garbage and I handle the recycling. That should tell you that it is a labor of love. I don't mind the sorting or rinsing but when I have to lug that stuff to the bins I am not so in love with recycling.

2. Cloth diapers- good for the planet and good for my baby. A win-win. Plus they are so flipping cute that you enjoy changing him. I like for him to coordinate.

3. Reducing energy consumption- a bit harder in the winter but still something I have committed to...lights off, computer off, energy sucking appliances unplugged.

4. Organic- I purchase organic, locally grown food when it is feasible and not cost prohibitive.

5. Plastic water bottles- I use far less. I bring my water to school and only buy it in a pinch. I can't help it I am a big gulper.

6. Plastic bags- I use my super cute totes in place of plastic bags on nearly every shopping trip. I have been known to carry my stuff in my hands instead of using a plastic bag.

7. Plastic snack bags- I use reusable bags to tote snacks for N and myself.

8. Paper towels- We started the process of phasing out paper towels. Yikes. I will keep a roll on hand but the crazy amount we go through has been halted.

9. Clothing Care- washing clothes in cold instead of hot/ line drying as much as possible.

10. Supporting local. Buying goods from local merchants so they don't have to travel as far and I support my local economy.

Doing green things takes some adjusting but it is growing on me!

No, no, no

tell me the weekend isn't over. tell me it doesn't all start again in a few short hours. ugh, where does the time go? yes, I had Friday off but that doesn't count since N was sick. now I have to head back and the commute promises to be a rainy, messy one. i have to get off of here. i need to be a Debbie Downer under my covers!

Night Out!

On Thursday, D and I went to see Alicia Keys. The concert was absolutely phenomenal! It started with a few songs by Alicia's back-up singer, Jermaine Paul and he was very good. Next up was Melanie Fiona and she was good too. Robin Thicke was the opening act and he was AMAZING (watch out Justin Timberlake!) he sang, played the piano, did some grinding and ended it with a tribute to Lil Wayne and he started rapping. He was soooo good. I need to go and get his latest. I knew I liked Sex Therapy but after seeing his show I have to get his stuff. Too hot.

And then....

She was on. I love her music. She is so talented. She gave a great show. Her music is so impressive. I thought she wasn't going to sing my song. The second to the last song she made me one happy camper. She sang Our song... No One. Aww, that song always puts me back at that moment when we walked our first walk as husband and wife.

"No one, No one can get in the way of what I'm feelin'. No one can get in the way of what I feel for you!"

Oh and I forgot to mention, Michelle Obama was in the audience. Yeah, we are cool like that!

10, 10, 10 for Tuesday!

1. My weekly menu is not really working this week since I don't feel like cooking.

2. Jesse James allegedly cheated on Sandra Bullock. Not cool after she declared how spectacular he is to anyone who would listen. Marriage vows are not just suggestions.

3. Spring Break is almost here and I can't wait.

4. My sister is out of the country and I miss her. Hope she is having a wonderful adventure.

5. Nico is laying across my arms while I type this...I guess he could be called resistance :)

6. I have decided to wake up earlier since I can no longer stay up until 11. So waking up early gives me a moment to myself.

7. A quote on Dr. Phil was :" Friendships are ships, they can sink." Wow. Some sentiment.

8. I think I have just experienced my first etsy disappointment. I mean how long does it take to ship a product you have in stock.

9. The Phone Free Zone for your car is so hard! I think O should have given us all chauffeurs.

10. Where did the good weather go? I miss the sun :(