Diane is her name

Here is a picture of the woman who brought me into this world. My mother. What can I say about her? Many things. She is the reason I am who I am today. I know it's cliche but to me she undoubtedly is the best mother in the world. I have so many wonderful memories of my childhood. She is the epitome of strength and courage. She has taught me a lot in many ways. Some she has no idea of. I remember for the longest time when I was growing up I would say I looked just like my father. She would say, "no you don't, you look like me". I mean you couldn't tell me otherwise. When I reached my 20's then I started to really believe her. I would look at pictures I had taken while out at concerts and what not and get this instant flash of her. Except it was me. Since then, I agree with her, and the many other's who tried to tell me while growing up.

This lady is a mother of 3. Me being the middle and only girl. We are closer than I would have ever imagined us to be. Our birthdays are 3 days apart and I think we are a lot alike. I noticed little things that I have picked up from her. She is so kind and so giving and nurturing and understanding. She does not pass judgement and accepts people for who they are. She supported me in so many things when I was younger. She didn't say no you can't do that. She asked me what I needed for that particular endeavor in my life and she did what she could to get it for me. I had a wonderful childhood. No silver spoon or anything remotely close. We lived in an apartment all our lives growing up. We went to public schools. She didn't have a ton of money and yet, we still didn't want for a thing. She was very active in our lives. If she couldn't take us anywhere, we did family things in the house. We learned how to be a family. My mother has pictures from the time she was carrying us in her belly up until now as grown ups. Books and books. We will always have something to look back on.

I love her with all my heart and soul and being. I can't imagine life without her and I don't want to. She is my all and my everything. I end this by saying I want to be just like her when I grow up. Just like her. Wouldn't change a thing about her. Wouldn't trade her for anyone or anything else in the world and I am very proud to be her daughter. I only wish I can come close to doing for her what she done for me.

What makes a friend a friend?

I got to thinking. As I get older and things change and people change, I stopped and thought about my friends. What's in a friend? Someone you have know for a gazillion years? A person you tell everything to? You hang out together all the time? No fights or arguments? I for one am the type that can get along with everyone. I am warm and inviting also. At the same time, I can spot bullshit instantly and I am a good judge of character at first converstation usually. It's funny because I remember when I was a little girl probably in 6th grade my mother told me I would never have any friends because of my attitude. I didn't believe her and I can say I have proven her wrong. I have my fair share of friends. The ones I talk to almost daily, the ones I see periodically, the ones I party with and the ones I have had a fallen out with once or twice in the past. Some of these friends fall in more than one of these categories.

The ones I talk to daily. Not many of these right here. I only say that because over the years the numbers have decreased. I look back on when I was ten years younger and remember how I had so many of these daily talker friends. As our lives evolved and each of us started doing different things, we called less. So I have a good 2-3 that I talk to daily or every other day.

The ones I see periodically. These friends I see when we find time in our busy schedules to meet up. Some of these also are almost daily talkers as well. These are the ones I go see at their home or they come and see me. We may decide to get something to drink on and get to talking and what not.

My party folks. My party folks are the ones I have a lot of fun with. The great thing about my party friends is they know how to do it reasonably. We have lives that consist of jobs, and some has children. Can't just be partying all week. Who still does that? I think because it's not very often when we go we have fun. Now don't get me wrong. I would party more if I could. Just because it's nice to be out and listen to music and enjoy yourself. There just isn't enough nice places in my age group, without the knuckle heads and chicken heads, that I would like to go to. So my selection is limited.

My fallen outs. These are the craziest of them all. I don't know what it is. What I do know is that I will not do it more than twice. To me it's too much of a headache and not worth it. A lot goes into the consideration of rekindling. It depends on the circumstances as to why the fallen out happened anyway. I don't hold grudges. Never have. That's not my style. One I had a fallen out with I ca;me to the realization that she is as bullheaded as I am and we just need breaks every now and then. So I just said to her, "I guess we need breaks sometimes" and she agreed.

So for me many reasons go into why you are a friend of mine and I have to say that I am blessed to have such a array of different types. Some I've known from junior high, the others from high and the others from work with a couple of them not falling in any of the above. I don't have sisters so I think of my friends and family. We have our moments. Who doesn't. At the tender young age of 31 I have learned a lot of things as I have gotten older. Friends are important, they will come and go. They will piss you off royally. But those true "friends" are here to stay. No matter what and I think I have found my group of them.

What I want to do next

I have been saying this since last year. I really want to play tennis. Not because of the Williams sisters but because I think it would be fun and most of all, it would be a great way to lose weight and get fit. I have heard from several people that it's really harder than it looks. I want to find something I like to do and stick to it. I think back to when I was a little girl. I was very imaginative and creative, thus, wanting to try out everything. I was blessed to have a mother who was very supportive in all my endeavors. However short lived they were. I was a cheerleader in elementary school, then got passed that. Next in junior high I was a majorette. That lasted shorter than the cheer leading thing. And the thing is, I actually believe that I would do these activities and be the best at it and make it a long term thing. Nothing seems to be long termed with me. Do I have some form of an attention disorder? Nah! Ok then there was nails. I learned how to do the acrylic tips and all the designs and what not. After that, I wanted to curl hair. Oh let me add that all of these adventures were self taught. No schooling or nothing. So curling hair. I go to my mother and say I needed to buy curlers of various sizes to be able to do hair. That lasted for a bit. I did my own hair and my friends. Then there was crocheting. I had my mother buy all the hooks and I was really into for a while. I made afghans for my dog and I just didn't want to do anymore. Oh I remember I wanted to be a model when I was like 12 but the young gal was too chubby, LOL. Both my mother and father was supportive with that. I honestly should just make a list of things I want to do recreational and just do them knowing that it will not be a permanent thing.

The next hair chapter was braiding hair. This was it. This lasted years. From age 12 well into high school and a year after graduating. I know why I stuck with this. It was the money. Nothing else but the money. At my age that was very good money coming in. The sore wrists started occurring and I became so booked I didn't have time to really go out and spend the money. So that was my one commitment.

I have tried gyms, belly dancing, strip aerobics, water aerobics, Billy Blanks, you name it and I have tried it. Walking. It was ok for the first few times but quickly became bored with it. So I am back to tennis. Hoping this is one thing I can stick with. My dear hubby says that I aspire to do these things and when I do it and accomplish it, I want to move on to other things. This may have some truth to it looking back at my life. It has applied with almost everything in my life. Except my job and again, that is because of money again. Money is the motivating factor I see. Education and work I'm serious with. I stick with it and enjoy it while I'm doing it. All other things like hobbies, are expendable at any moment. I want to be different towards my hobbies.

So I will go out and get an expensive racket and find a tennis court and someone who is willing to play with me and go for it. To be continued......

DC Carnival

Me in mud

June 28th was the Caribbean Carnival in DC on Georgia Avenue. This was my second real year in attendance. I went many years ago but after all the festivities were over. I actually remembered to bring my camera this year. It was hard getting decent pictures of the parade as my friends and I stood on the sidewalk. So most of the pictures you see spectators walking along with the trucks. It was decent weather. At first. They have been calling for rain. Now if you have been there before, you know parking is a nightmare. After maneuvering through many alleys and blocked off streets, we managed to get a good parking spot. Patience is a virtue indeed. I would have given up long ago and parked somewhere far away but my friend T was an optimist. We made good timing also. We didn't miss much at all, if any. Then the rain came. It was cool on your body until the giant sized drops came down making everyone run for cover. Thank goodness D had umbrellas in her truck. Not that it did much when at one point the three of us tried to huddle under an individual sized umbrella. Minutes later, the sun came out and we were ready to resume the show.

After the last truck we walked down to the end of the Avenue to the high school where they have the vendors set up. Oh I forgot to say that once the sun came out, it literally felt like a sauna. It was so freaking hot you just couldn't do a thing about it. I don't care what you wore, it was hot and sweaty. At least for me. I get hot very quick and usually don't do outside activities until the sun goes down. So we walked and got to the field. Knowing we had to pay admission for entrance into the field, it was an unexpected $10. Now that may not sound like a lot but with the recession and gas prices, I could do a lot with it. LOL. We got in and walked around. The lines were so long for the food stands. After a pretty long wait, we reached the beginning of the line to be informed that they only had curry goat and chicken ready. Not that we would have purchased jerk due to the heat, but they didn't have fish either! Which is what I wanted. So I opted for the curry chicken. After being there for hours, we got our food and walked many a blocks back to the truck. It was so many people out there. Finally we get to the truck and I punished my food. That heat drained every ounce of energy and electrolyte from me and when I was done, I felt as though I hadn't eaten a thing.

During the walk down I decided to participate in the mud. I had already had a spot of mud on my white dress from a passerby so that gave me an excuse to go all the way. Well part way. I had on new tennis shoes that I adore and wasn't really trying to get all muddied up. Besides, I didn't want to get in D's car like that. It dried way before we got back but it was still the thought. As I approached the moving truck one of the gentlemen motioned for me to enter the back of the truck where there were just loads of mud. Uh. No thanks. He said to me that I looked like I was precious so he wanted to be gentle with me. Which was nice, LOL. So he used his muddy towel and just wiped it on my face, shoulders, and neck. Cool experience to say that I did it. I was disappointed that we didn't get there early enough to catch the beads they through out to the crowd but there is always next year.

I had a nice time and when I got home I was swamped. Completely and utterly exhausted. If it wasn't for the mud, I would have jumped right into bed but I had to wash it off. So until next year, here are a few pictures of the carnival.

Catching up

Well I haven't had much to blog about worth blogging about so that's why it's been a while. I have to blog about the Sex and the City movie. It was everything I wanted it to be, LOL. I felt as though when the season ended, it left me with a feel that it's not over. Not knowing it would soon become a movie. I admit I was devastated with that news. So it was very important to go out and get the series on DVD. So even before they announced the nearing of a extraordinary era, a guy I was seeing at the time was kind enough to buy me seasons 1-5. Season 6 wasn't out at the time. Then my hubby completed the collection and bought the final season. For me season one isn't one of my favorites but I will of course take it because that's when you get to know the characters. I think season 3, second disc is where it starts to get really juicy. Now the movie, I will not be a spoiler for those of you that haven't seen it yet. There will be funny moments, angry moments, happy moments, shocking moments and very sad and emotional moments in the movie. I have to say I am happy the way they did the movie and of course, it is an absolute must that I get a couple of copies on DVD when it comes out :-)

Seeing Bruce Bruce the comedian at Constitution hall on 6/21 was a treat. It was a treat because he has lost 140 lbs. To me, he doesn't really look the same. It's something to get used to seeing but I hope he continues to lose and become healthy. Michael Blackson, the African comedian, came on first. He is funny and had the crowd going. The next was Guy Torrey who wasn't originally scheduled to be there but John Witherspoon couldn't be there for whatever reason and we got Guy. I am not a fan of Guy. He isn't all that funny to me and I could have definitely done without him. Talent, the comedian, was our host and I would have loved to see him as one of the acts and maybe let Guy be the host. He was just hilarious. Loved him. I wasn't familiar with him prior to the show but now that I know his name, I will be on the look out for him in the future. Then Bruce Bruce came on and lit that stage. Now, I wasn't in tears like I was with Katt Williams but I did have a few stomach aches from his jokes. I didn't time his appearance on stage but it didn't seem to be very long. The show as 8-11 pm. I had good seats and a nice time. That's the great thing about summer. The concerts.

My movies. The Happening. Interesting movie. If I were to tell you the basis of the movie you would think it was absolutely crazy and wouldn't dare go and see it. However, as crazy as it sounds it was a very nice movie and I really enjoyed it. It's one for the collection and would recommend it to folks. The Hulk I also saw this weekend. I didn't see the first one so I have nothing to compare it with but I enjoyed it. The movie was an hour and forty five minutes long so I'm not sure if children of young ages would be content to sit there for that length of time but it was entertaining. There was a point or two where it got slow but it captured my attention. I have a speculation at the end of the movie that there will be a team up of two characters but I could be wrong. Go and see it.

So folks that's it for now. Nothing much else going on. My hair is growing and I'm loving it. I have a week off work with pay which was incredibly nice of my boss to do. So I'm just chillin out. My new thing is trying to save money. Never was good at it and now I am on a mission to be a saver. Wish me luck on that one.

Erykah Badu Show

Awwww what a delight to see. Erykah came to perform at the DAR and it was such a treat to finally get to see her. She was there with The Roots. I don't own any cd's of this group and I only know one song of theirs. I was sitting there thinking they had a very similar sound to Go-Go. So I could listen and groove to them while they were on stage. They had this one guy on stage who had a mic also. His job was to come in here and there with a "uh" and "yeah". You know what I am talking about. I think the show would have been better without him. He wasn't needed in my opinion. They had a guitarist who put a pretty good portion of the show too. He was so tiny and petite. He was all over that stage when it was his turn to shine. So all in all, I was entertained a bit. They kept my attention for the time they needed to. Will I go out and get their cd, not likely but they were ok to listen to.

Now the main event star came out with her little outfit on. It was like a strapless, layered, balloon dress in black with black tights and black high heeled ankle boots. She wore a head piece in black. Just those little hats our grandparents wore that were small and fit just on the crown of your head. She comes out sashaying about the stage. She sang most of her new songs off the current cd. I for one love the new cd. You have to get past the superfuturistic sounds and skits that come on before each track. It's about the words. You have to listen to what she is saying. The beats that go along with the tracks are on point too. It definitely is a new Erykah, a different Erykah, but still Erykah, LOL. She hit a few old songs but I noticed she went more along the slow, chill route. She didn't hit but maybe two of her fast fast paced songs. She is a great performer and I will go see her again with no hesitation. She rocked the joint. Then she thanked DC and left the stage. I figured she would come back on but left anyway. There was a chick next to me with so much freakin' perfume on that my sinus were on fire. So I don't think I could have stayed even if I wanted to. I got word from friend that Erykah came back on and did another three songs. Well, I'll know next time.

Katt Williams

I had the opportunity to see Katt Williams on stage at the Constitution Hall on May 8th. I have never laughed so much in one hour in my life. He is just down right hilarious and if you ever get a chance to see him, do so if you are into comedy like that. I had tears in my eyes the entire time. He had two female comedians come out prior to him who were funny also. But the tears didn't come until this crazy man got on the stage. I would definitely see him again if he comes back to DC. He talked about everything from the running candidates for presidency, riding motorcycles, Flava Flav, smoking weed and of course, the white folks. There was a show added immediately after. I wonder if he had time to get his permed hair done over again because his do' was all sweated out when he was done. His facial expressions along with the jokes make the show priceless. Go see him

The Movies

Ok one other thing. I am a movie nut. I have recently been hitting them up every chance I get. I used to go to the movies often years ago and have gotten back into them. I view the movies during matinee hours. That way, I don't feel too bad if the movie sucked and the theaters are pretty much empty. Ok. Let me see. These are the ones that I have seen in the past 6 months in no special order and my ratings for them all.

Alvin and the Chipmunks -rating... cute!
Cloverfield -rating....busy!
27 Dresses- rating.... fun!
Meet the Browns- rating.....predictable!
Forbidden Kingdome- rating......tiring!
Prom Night- rating......low budget!
Streetkings- rating.....copy cat!
Harold and Kumar/Guantanamo Bay......HILARIOUS!
Welcome home Roscoe Jenkins- rating.......FUNNY!
The Bucket List- rating........tearjerker :(
College Road Trip- rating.....awful!
Jumper- rating....awesome!
Fool's Gold- rating......sucked big time!

I still would like to see 21; Forgetting Sarah Marshall before they leave the theaters. I heard on the radio they have some big box office smashes on their way out for the summer. Can't wait.

Mac Makeup

How did I ever get sucked into the frenzy of MAC? Well I know how. I am not an everyday or every week makeup wearer. I only wear it when I go out or bored at work. I just got tired of spending my money on eyeshadow that seemed to wear away mid day. That was like a big waste of money for me. I only wear eyeshadow and lipgloss. But the vibrant colors MAC have and the limited editions they come out with just was calling my name. One thing led to another and next thing you know, I was buying the small pro palette to start my eyeshadow collection. I feel the pain in my pockets when I leave out the store. So that's my new obsession. I seem to go through them. If I blogged about all my trials I would have a much busier blog. Stay tuned for pictures of my work. Oh and let me add that I am sooo new to this. I don't think I'm that great at it but like anything else I put my mind to, I intend to get near perfect at it.

This is the summer of dresses. I am very girly. I like high heels and flowy dresses and purses and accessories. So I have went on a dress rampage and got a bunch of really really nice dresses. The nice thing about them is there isn't too much fuss with your outfit. That IS your outfit. No trying to hook up the cute shirt with the pefect bottoms. Simple, Chic and Fabulous! I am happy I am ahead of schedule. The summer isn't here yet and it's not terribly hot so I am still on the hunt for more dresses. I know I can't wear my pretty dresses to all occasions but definitely most of them.

Yay for dresses.....and purses and shoes :-)

The internet

I never blog at work. Not because I'm busy at work, but because I'm usually surfing the web. I find that I can always find something to look at online whether I am at work or at home. How many other people are like that out there? You know, don't really have a thing to surf but just start thinking of stuff and typing it into the search engine. My top searches daily are Nappturality.com and my hair Fotki. Then from there it's all up in the air. I never thought I would get as sick to my stomach without my internet access like I would my cell phone. Gotta love modern technology. It seems to make life a tad bit easier. No more looking for pay phones and making sure you had change. Everytime someone paged you and you weren't in a house, you had to pull over to call them back or worse, walk to the nearest pay phone. Now you all know I have the cool Garmin that I just love to death. What did we do before Mapquest? I remember catching the bus but I'm thinking about all the places I go to now that I don't know how to get to, and said, "what did we do before gps?" Now yeah I know I was in the car riding with someone but still, how did we get directions? I guess the good ol' trusty map. I can't read maps to save my life. But my hubby gave me a simple clue that I should be embarrassed to mention but what the hell. He said to turn the map! Oooohhhhh yeah that may help instead of me trying to turn my head or trying to invision the street turned around. I have no sense of direction. My other senses work besides my eyesight but if you wanted to make me disappear, take me someone and drop me off. I won't find my way home. I would just cry and scream and give up.

So now you know my secret about my lack of sense of direction.

What happened?

Yes, what happened? Did I run out things to talk about? I don't think so. I just think they weren't important enough to blob about. There still isn't nothing much new going on. It's the first day of spring and yet it still feels like winter. As usual around these parts anyway. Let's see. The latest thing would be that I am selling the motorcycle. Yep, selling it and hoping to get a good penny from it since it's practically brand new. I have come to the realization that it's not the time in my life for it. For me, I have to be in the mood and I just ain't. I have moved on to other things. Work is good. No complaints there. My hair is coming along great. Just growing and growing. So ok bye for now. LOL. See, I lost my mojo. I shall return with some entertaining news soon.

Spring is coming

It was a glorious day today of 72 degrees today. I got that fever today. Truly a splendid day for just getting out and enjoying it. Even if it was just to sit out on the porch or take a stroll down the road. After the last couple of days we had of cold weather, it was a pleasant surprise. The hubby and I decided to grab a bite at Panera and utilize their outside tables. The wind was blowing, the sun out and the temperature was heavenly. Didn't last too long however, because the temperature dropped fast. Back down to the 40's by 5 pm. Hubby and I headed out again for our trip to the gym. I have to say, it really is a boost to have a workout partner. I am so very proud of him. He has lost a significant amount of weight and size since he's started the gym. Almost puts me to shame, LOL. It's so much easier for men. I had to sit it out for the week of the surgery. Not to take anything away from him because he really works hard at accomplishing his goal and it's a huge encouragement for me. I can report that my clothes are fitting a little better. I figure by spring I should be very close to where I want to be. I have gotten used to eating small portions and now it's to the point where I actually get full faster and off smaller amounts. It's a lifestyle. Not a diet. This has to continue with me for the rest of my life if I want to maintain. I have some ways to go but I know I am on the right track and I have my partner to push me along the way.

My birthday gift

January 31st was the day I turned a year older. So I waited "patiently" for my gift from my husband. I knew we were going on a road trip but wasn't quite sure where to. I asked questions and the only thing I got out of him until our destination was that it was to New York. Still I had no clue. Four and a half hours later we arrived to a location that I could only describe as a parking lot. I wasn't paying too much attention to my surroundings as he handed me a card. I smiled and opened it. It was awfully thick when I felt it only to reveal a wad of cash waiting for me to spend it at Woodbury Commons Outlets. I was speechless and smiling ear to ear. My husband is the kind of person who listens and takes notes. He has heard me mention on a few occasions me wanting to go on a shopping spree. Shoes, clothes, you name it. Just shop. So he granted my wish and I was extremely surprised and happy. After showing me what I will be spending my next few days doing, we headed back to the hotel to chill out and prepare for the next day's excursion. Friday I wake up all excited to go spend and discover that it is hailing outside. You should have saw the look on my face. I was disappointed but my hubby told me that it wasn't going to stop us from going and that's what we did. We went, hail and all, and I shopped. Until our feet got wet and cold. We had no umbrella and we were getting soaked towards the later hours. I managed to spend all but $300. That concluded the adventure for Friday and we resumed on Saturday.

Saturday was a better day weather wise because it was dry but now it was cold and windy. I would take that any day over the previous one. Knocked the rest of the money out in less than 2 hours and headed back to do inventory check on all my possessions. It was a girls' dream. That is, those that are into fashion and great buys. For example, I got a pair of $319 True Religion jeans for $89. Talk about a steal. I got a couple of them just because. Also, the hubby picked a great time to take me because a lot of stores were having sales. To name a few stores that I ventured to, French Connection, Michael Kors, UGG, Calvin Klein, Diesel, Juicy Couture, A/X, Nike, Kenneth Cole and a few others. I scored in all the stores I went to and I am anxiously looking forward to taking a trip there in the summer. This was by far an exceptional gift from my hubby, as they all are, that I will always remember.

Naked Love

Naked Love by Darnella Ford. This was an outstanding book. Hands down. It was a page turner. I can't get over how intriguing it was. From the first chapter, well the 28th Chapter as the chapters decreases as you read further, I knew this would be one interesting book. I dare not give away the story line but it about love, loss, and betrayal. I think this would be a great selection for a book club because there is just so much you can discuss from any given chapter. It even has guideline questions in the rear of the book just for that reason. Indeed a good read.

My birthday is in 2 days on the 31st. I can't believe the month is over and I'm turning a year older. I can just remember when I was 11 years old running around at my dad's house playing. I remember graduating from junior high, then high school, then dental school. Seems like just yesterday I was turning 21 and now I'm turning 31. Time surely does fly and I don't want to miss anything. I went to see the Bucket List a few weeks ago and it really got me to thinking about life. There was a part where Morgan Freeman mentioned how fast 46 years flew by to him. How he wasn't able to do anything but work and provide for his family. A marvelous movie that I highly recommend you see. My dearest hubby is taking me out of town for a surprise. Part of me is really frustrated because I don't have a clue nor will he give me one that I can go on. I am not as excited about the trip but as the days come in closer, the level of excitement tends to increase. I like control and order. LOL. If I don't know where I'm going, I can't be in control and that makes me very uneasy. Yeah I know, sad. My mother's birthday was yesterday and we went to dinner and had a nice time the family and I. So here's to my birthday! Cheers...

See ya when I return on Sunday. SUPERBOWL. Woohoo!!!!

The Auto Show

Today we decided to attend the Auto Show. The last time I had been to it I was a little girl and was accompanied by my dad. I remember it so well because they had Kit, the Knight Rider car there. Now as an adult I can go a appreciate the time spent there. We arrived around 2 pm and we left at 4:30 pm. Oh it was like a kid in a candy store. I can't count how many times I said the words "oohh". I got a chance to sit in the cars that I know I will never be able to afford to purchase. My personal favorite was the H2. That was a pretty big and spacious truck. I also liked the Lexus cars and trucks. I wasn't really surprised by how comfortable they felt but they truly were comfy. More on the realistic approach, I narrowed my choices down to the Acura RDX and the Land Rover L2. The Range Rover was very nice. Even the Sport Version of it. The Sport wasn't terribly expensive but the more affordable would be the L2. You won't feel like you are being shorted with this purchase as it pretty much has the same features but only smaller. Perfect size for someone like me with no children and usually roll solo or with the hubby. Reasonably priced and luxurious. So out of the two, the L2 would be my first pick. The first car that I got in was the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Convertible. HOT!!!!! I just kept saying how it was sooo me and I got my confirmation by a friendly stranger telling me I should buy it because I looked so good in it. I thanked him agreed. If only I didn't already have a coupe. I'm in the market for a CUV not a roadster. I sat in the Pontiac Solstice as I have been eyeing those in the past. Nice but I don't like the 90 degree angle you sit at. I need to be able to recline a bit and that isn't the car for it. Highlight of the evening was the Aero by Saab. It's a concept car and I am so mad I left my camera. That car left me speechless. I will be on the look out for it in the near future. I left happy with tired feet and a new car scent to take home as a prize. LOL. I can't wait until next year.

Will it work?

I am one week into my post surgery. It was performed one week ago today and I must say I am feeling well. Due to my misunderstanding, it's called Arthroscopy and not Orthoscopy, LOL. Duh! Well that's what it sounded like to me. Anyway. I arrived at the hospital at 1 pm and registered and got settled. The doctor's coworkers (not sure what they are called) came in and spoke to me. The hated IV. I have had the luxury of experiencing this once before and it's not fun or comfortable. Especially when the anesthesiologist can't quite hit the vein. OUCH!!! Painful. After about 7 pokes, he managed to hit the spot. He informed me I had "curly" veins. I wanted to laugh as all I could think about was my hair. You know. Coily. Next was a sonogram of my neck. In the case that I would end up in severe pain afterwards, they could give me an injection in my neck to control the pain. They called it a Block. I know what that means in dental terms so I gathered it was the same concept and it was. Thankfully, I didn't need it. Dr. Lopez told me that there was a possibility that he would have to make an open cut. If he needed to then fine but I don't have scars on my body and wouldn't welcome one of the size he predicted. Turns out, the shoulder only required three samll slits about a 1/2 inch in length. I believe they will leave a mark but what can you do?

I was told it was time and they rolled me away on the bed. "We are going to give you something to make you sleepy now", was the last words I heard. I was happy my husband was there with me. He gave me a kiss before they carted me away and that was all I remembered until it was time to wake up. Again, pain. So much pain that I was on the bed in tears. I was freezing cold and crying. The nurse told me to take some deep breaths because she couldn't give me anything until I started breathing. They had the oxygen going and there were people talking all around me. Not a pleasant waking experience. Finally, I did what she said and got some pain medicine. In walks the hubby but they didn't let him stay long. The worse part is having to use the bathroom coming out of the sleep. You really think you have to go but you don't. She gives me a bed pan. Yes, sexy. To no avail. I told her I can't go. Then suddenly I could. They walked me to the bathroom and made sure I was safe. It felt odd with a stranger in there while you take a leak but I was still incoherent so I didn't mind so much. Aaahhh! Relief and now I can go home. I get back, she asks if I feel like I can get dressed. I said, "Yes" then got dressed. Oh and they warn you of the nausea. That was just awful. The entire ride home I was nauseous and I didn't think I would make it. Hubby stopped to fill my prescription for Percocet and home we went.

Let me just say that I have no idea how one becomes addicted to that drug. Why in the world would anyone want to feel like that. You are literally high. You nod off to sleep at any given moment just to wake up speaking nonsense. No one can make out what you are talking about. Then you nod off again. I felt like a true drug addict under the influence. I could not be held liable for anything I said the two days I was on the pain killer. I was so relieved I didn't need it the rest of the recouperation period. Each day is better and better. I'm out of the sling. I can move it normally again. Almost. There are certain positions that send a jolt of pain through the shoulder but overall I'm great and I hope this turns out to be a successful procedure. Only time will tell now.

Motorcycle Show

I had a really nice weekend. It seems so short due to my daily activities. Friday hubby and I went to Adams Morgan to hear some jazz. It was a nice little quaint spot and the music was very nice. Saturday I went out to the Crossroads Nightclub. It's a spot I frequent for reggae and dancehall. Sunday was the 27th International Motorcycle Show at the Convention Center in DC. It was almost like a kid in a candy store. All types of bikes. Even some that looked sort of futuristic. They displayed a trike and a bike that had two small wheels in the front closely centered in place of one big tire. I sat on some, took some pictures and enjoyed the experience. It was my first time attending and although I felt as if it wasn't a lot to display, it satisfied my hunger. I have been eyeballing a pair of girly riding boots by Icon. I was able to see them in person. Cute but just didn't look that functional. I understand they want to make clothing and accessories for us females and they achieved it but I just think it should be a few more prototypes to come before settling on just one. They had all sorts of vendors there from helmets to jackets to GPS systems. I purchased a fog free spray set. That's one of the downsides of riding with a full face helmet. You tend to fog the shield. They demonstrated how it works on my very own eyeglasses and we were sold. Both the hubby and I can use it and a little goes a long way. After sitting and looking I am all pumped up for the upcoming riding season. Here are a few pictures we took while there.

My run in with the cops

Well another cop. Not my hubby. Ok so I had a spa service appointment early this morning at the Red Door. I chose to go to the location that is far as hell from me. Minimum an hour depending on your speed. I had an appointment at 10 am and I figured I could just leave out at 8:45 am and have a few minutes to spare or to allow for mishaps. Thank goodness I did leave when I did. Minding my business driving along on the beltway. I was doing every bit of 95 mph and just decided to let up a bit. Everything was good. I was on the phone with my girlfriend and bam, I saw the truck posted up on the side of the road perpendicular to the direction I was going. Basically, he was in the cut. By the time I reached him we made eye contact. I knew I was guilty. So I told my girlfriend he was pulling me over and she said, "no maybe he just want to make sure I slowed down". Nah! He pulled onto the road and got in my lane behind me and close to my bumper. Then the lights went off. I got off the phone and pulled over. I was caught. What can I say, I was wrong. I was speeding and I knew I was. We all tend to do it but I was the lucky girl today. He identified himself as Maryland State Trooper. License and registration he asked for. Told me I was going 83 in a 55 mph zone. Ok. So my dear police officer hubby of mine gave me a folder for my wedding gift. It's a black leather folder (what we would call wallet) with a tiny version of his police badge. Same numbers and all. On the other side, you put your i.d. or what have you. I retrieved it from my purse and opened it up in a way that he could see the badge but not blatantly displaying it. I also have yearly FOP stickers on my back windshield as another form of identification. He asked if I was an officer and I replied, "no my husband". He asked for where and I told him. He told me to sit tight he will be right back. He returns with not a smile on his face. The officer informs me that he is letting me off on a warning. Also that it would have been $160 ticket and 2 points off my license. "You are free to go", is what he said next. I thanked him and pulled off.

Ordinarily I would be all pissed at the cop even though it was my own wrong doing but I have grown up a bit. I also know how hard it is day in and day out for some cops. The good ones that is. So I am more understanding towards them now that I am married to one. I wasn't fan of cops back in the day but I have matured. They also give out this pamphlet where it tells you about fairness and equality. It gives you the option of complaints or commendations. I have decided, with the advise of my husband, to write something complimentary and send it in. Now I have a pretty good idea that the mini badge just might be the real reason I got out of that ticket and points. Oddly enough, my last recent run in's with them have been warnings. I am grateful for this but don't want to make it a habit. I have a problem with speed. I should go out and buy a car that only goes to 85 miles per hour, LOL.

So let this be a lesson you guys. No speeding. Obey the laws. Yes, I'm talking to myself also.

Oh and I did make it to my 10 am appointment right at 10 am and upon my departure, I kept a steady speed of 70 mph.

A new day

I'm feeling better, it's a new day and I am looking forward to the rest of the year. My sweet darling husband surprised me with an early birthday present. A year's membership at Gold's Gym. How excited do you think I was? Very excited. I don't think it's a normal reaction to a gym membership but you all know how I have been battling this unwelcomed weight so it was the best gift ever. To make it better for me, he got one for himself so we can work out together. What a thoughtful person. I think he has just gotten tired of me complaining about it for all this time. LOL. Poor thang. Starting Monday, I will be on a new path to my weight loss. I can't wait.

So my team made it into the playoffs. Go Skins! I have faith that they will make it further through. I'm not going to get all crazy and say they will make it to the Super Bowl but I'm just proud they made it thus far. We play today at 4:15 the Seahawks. I'm going to run out and buy me some Yuengling lager since this is the last 2 days before my workout I will consume beer for the game. Put on my faded Redskins tshirt and park myself in front of the Plasma. Oh how I love or HD wall mounted Plasma. It's perfect for the games and movies. This was a good buy for us.

Not sure if some of you new but my girlfriend created a book club. We had a meet today but due to certain circumstances, it has been postponed. I, however, finished the book and I have to say that as long of a novel it was, I found it to be informative, outstanding and a good choice of a read regardless of the length. In short, it's about a black man who grew up living as a white man. His daughter found out after his death and it led her unto a strong desire and determination to find out about her black roots that her father has stripped away from her. I give it an A for detail and content. I give it an B for attentiveness. At some points I felt she was rambling on with stories that I felt had no bearing really on what the book really was about but thankfully, it didn't occur often. My next read is Other People's Skin. Not a selection by the members but I figured I will get it done before they pick a new book. This book is about the self-hatred caused by intra-racial prejudice and the ongoing obsession with skin tone and hair texture among black women. I have a coupon for 30% off a book at Borders so I am going to head out and get this book I want to add to my collection.

Have a wonderful weekend friends.

Fear of the unknown

Let me start off by saying I had a truly wonderful holiday. Sunday before New Year's I got together with some friends to pre-celebrate the upcoming holiday. I enjoy very much spending time with my friends and this was another year well spent celebrating.

My title is just that. Fear of the unknown. I often wonder about the many fears of a person. Some fear heights, snakes, spiders, etc. I on the other hand fear death. I have come to notice that as I get older, I am concerning myself with it more often. I wonder if it is because I enjoy my life to the fullest that I am afraid of it ending abruptly? Or is it because I'm getting older and know that my days are numbered? Thinking back to when I was younger I don't have any recollection of even pondering over the subject. I mean I had the occasional deaths of the neighborhood boys but it never triggered a response in me. As far as my family, I only had the death of my cousin and more recently, my stepfather. I have had some distant deaths of two cousins recently but no one that was extremely close to me other than my stepfather. I try to grasp some sort of comforting notion that will satisfy my need for a cure to my fear. My husband believes that I need to have my faith restored in an attempt to help me get pass the fear. Will that really help? Would seeing some sort of counselor really help? It's written in stone in my brain that fears cannot be conquered. I know this to be untrue as I once was terribly afraid of airplanes but no longer. So if I can win that battle then shouldn't it be as equally easy to get over my fear of dying?

I don't go to funerals. I am not one to care what another thinks but for some strange reason I am embarrassed by this confession. Not so much because I think someone would laugh or think it's ridiculous but mainly because it's identified with "paying your respect" for the departed. I was present at my stepfather's funeral and I can't begin to put down in this blog the unimaginable pain I suffered that day. It's a two part fear I have with death. Mines and my loved ones. The unknown reflects my own death. You hear stories about after life and judgement day to try to prepare one for what's to come. Are we really prepared? It's the unknown. We don't know what's one the other side. We don't know what it is like to take that last breath of air into our lungs before leaving this earth. That there is what I fear most. I have heard the term many times about fearing the unknown. To me, that applies to everything else except dying. I haven't visited my stepfather's grave since the day they lowered him into the ground. I so badly want to go but just can't bring myself to do it. Which leads me to the next statement. Will I have the same reaction towards my mother or father's death? Is that selfish of me to not confront it head on so that I can be strong enough to visit the grave's?

I am blessed that my parents are healthy. I'm blessed to have my health and my family has theirs too. My mind wanders and it debates the pros and cons to which would be easier to handle. Sudden death or a long slow death of a loved one. On one hand you have time to prepare mentally, I guess, and get to spend all the time you have left with that person. On the other hand, you hold on to a false hope that they may one day get better. Sigh......

I wish I had answers to the questions in my head. It's is rare that I have to reach out to another person for advice or consolation but as the days go by, I struggle more and more to develop some sort of connection with someone who can help me with my fears and concerns.

Thanks for listening. I get like this every now and then and just need an ear. Goodnight.