What a little lady! Ready to conquer the world!
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| Zadie Faye at 2 years, 10 months |
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Friday, September 13, 2013
A Special Grace
I believe that God bestows a special grace on new parents. Especially new parents who are absolutely clueless about babies and how to raise them.
This is the state I was in when Ben was born.
I was the youngest in my family, so there were no siblings to practice on. And I never babysat while growing up. So when Ben arrived, 32 years ago, this September 16th, God made him especially tough.
There's a picture of him taken at a week old, with an expression that said, "please figure this out soon."
I was determined to breast feed him, and boy, was that colorful! My breasts were huge, but there was only a trickle of milk coming out of them. Ben would nurse for a few minutes and then scream for me to just give him a bottle already, which of course, I did.
Neither of my guys were big milk drinkers, but Ben loved juice. He went to bed with juice and woke up with juice. It is absolutely miraculous that his teeth didn't rot.
In spite of my ineptitude, Ben was a happy baby. He always woke up with a smile. It was like he was rewarding me for effort, when we both knew I had no idea what I was doing.
For instance, it didn't occur to me when he started to roll around, that he could fall off the bed. The first time it happened, (yes, it happened more than once), I said a special prayer, thanking God for making him tough.
When Ben started to talk, one of the first things he said was, "I'm always on duty," from the cartoon, Inspector Gadget, which I finally figured out when I was watching it with him one day. Was the TV babysitting him? I'd like to say no, but his first words prove otherwise.
So this was the start of Ben's growing adventure.
I believe most first born kids are like science projects that we hope will turn out OK. And so it was with Ben.
But, in spite of it all . . .
He made it.
And not only did he survive, he thrived.
I am so proud of the man he has become, knowing that he made it in spite of my ignorance.
Happy birthday Ben.
Love, Mom
Thursday, September 12, 2013
The Return of the Afro
Don't you love how we recycle styles?
What was old is new again, and the kids sporting the "new" look are surprised when we old timers remind them that it's from "back in the day?"
On that note, please allow me to present . . .
The Afros of Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow
http://thegrio.com/2013/09/12/dante-de-blasio-brings-back-the-fro-thegrios-favorite-afros-of-all-time/#s:jackson-51
What was old is new again, and the kids sporting the "new" look are surprised when we old timers remind them that it's from "back in the day?"
On that note, please allow me to present . . .
The Afros of Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow
http://thegrio.com/2013/09/12/dante-de-blasio-brings-back-the-fro-thegrios-favorite-afros-of-all-time/#s:jackson-51
I Love This Guy!
Outspoken, outrageous, and fiercely talented . . . Mr. Andre Leon Tally, fashion editor icon.
http://thegrio.com/2013/09/11/andre-leon-talley-slams-russell-simmons-he-should-not-be-front-row-at-fashion-week/#52985999
http://thegrio.com/2013/09/11/andre-leon-talley-slams-russell-simmons-he-should-not-be-front-row-at-fashion-week/#52985999
Colored Folks & Camping
Camping is not high on the list of things to do for most Black folks. This is not news, but there was a recent article about it that garnered some attention and feedback.
It was very interesting. Check out the link below.
http://dish.andrewsullivan.com/2013/09/12/the-great-white-outdoors-ctd-2/
I was reminded of an annual camping field trip that many of the students in Sacramento schools participated in.
The kids' loved it.
White kids. Black kids. Hispanic kids.
They all loved it and were so excited about going.
As the kids boarded the buses on the day of the trip, I gave them a hearty wave as they left for the campgrounds about forty miles away.
I had absolutely no desire to see it.
Side note - Likewise, I had no desire to spend the night at the zoo with another group of kids. I stayed with them through dinner, then again said my goodbyes.
Sleeping with the critters?
No thanks.
Now, getting back to camping story . . .
I did end up driving to the campground on my last year at this school.
Honestly, I was shamed in to going.
If the principal of the schools visited his/her kids while they were camping, the camp would pay the fee for a student to attend the next year. This was a big deal because the school/kids had to pay a fee, which was pretty steep for many of our families.
This would be my first trip in my third year as principal.
So, feeling the pressure, I went.
With each passing mile, I knew the chances of seeing folks who looked like me was getting slimmer and slimmer. That image was unsettling.
Remember, I was raised in the segregated South where images of ugly stuff happening to folks who ventured out of their "assigned" areas could result in bad things happening.
Right or wrong, that's what I was thinking.
So . . .
When I was about five miles or so from the campground, the route called for me to turn off the main road, onto two-lane winding roads.
Although it was luscious green and very scenic, the only thing I was thinking about was how dark it must be at night, as there were no street lights, and the homes and businesses were sparsely scattered throughout. You could drive a while before seeing any people/critters, etc.
After trying unsuccessfully to push those negative thoughts to the back of my mind, I made it to the camp. My kids were tickled pink to see me, and my visit guaranteed another student would be able to go next year.
Did I ever consider going back?
No.
Would I consider camping in the future?
Probably not.
Is it because I'm Black?
Maybe.
Will the kids of color who experienced this want to do it again?
Statistics says no.
If they don't, will it be because they're Black/Hispanic?
Who knows?
Remember when Oprah and Gayle went camping to shed light on this absence of colored folks in the national parks?
Did they change any minds?
If Oprah can't get us to be one with nature, who can?
It was very interesting. Check out the link below.
http://dish.andrewsullivan.com/2013/09/12/the-great-white-outdoors-ctd-2/
I was reminded of an annual camping field trip that many of the students in Sacramento schools participated in.
The kids' loved it.
White kids. Black kids. Hispanic kids.
They all loved it and were so excited about going.
As the kids boarded the buses on the day of the trip, I gave them a hearty wave as they left for the campgrounds about forty miles away.
I had absolutely no desire to see it.
Side note - Likewise, I had no desire to spend the night at the zoo with another group of kids. I stayed with them through dinner, then again said my goodbyes.
Sleeping with the critters?
No thanks.
Now, getting back to camping story . . .
I did end up driving to the campground on my last year at this school.
Honestly, I was shamed in to going.
If the principal of the schools visited his/her kids while they were camping, the camp would pay the fee for a student to attend the next year. This was a big deal because the school/kids had to pay a fee, which was pretty steep for many of our families.
This would be my first trip in my third year as principal.
So, feeling the pressure, I went.
With each passing mile, I knew the chances of seeing folks who looked like me was getting slimmer and slimmer. That image was unsettling.
Remember, I was raised in the segregated South where images of ugly stuff happening to folks who ventured out of their "assigned" areas could result in bad things happening.
Right or wrong, that's what I was thinking.
So . . .
When I was about five miles or so from the campground, the route called for me to turn off the main road, onto two-lane winding roads.
Although it was luscious green and very scenic, the only thing I was thinking about was how dark it must be at night, as there were no street lights, and the homes and businesses were sparsely scattered throughout. You could drive a while before seeing any people/critters, etc.
After trying unsuccessfully to push those negative thoughts to the back of my mind, I made it to the camp. My kids were tickled pink to see me, and my visit guaranteed another student would be able to go next year.
Did I ever consider going back?
No.
Would I consider camping in the future?
Probably not.
Is it because I'm Black?
Maybe.
Will the kids of color who experienced this want to do it again?
Statistics says no.
If they don't, will it be because they're Black/Hispanic?
Who knows?
Remember when Oprah and Gayle went camping to shed light on this absence of colored folks in the national parks?
Did they change any minds?
If Oprah can't get us to be one with nature, who can?
Little Help?
These two teams could use a hand.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/11/record-rugby-defeat_n_3909493.html?utm_hp_ref=sports
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/10/fire-kiffin-chants-usc-fans-lane_n_3896449.html?utm_hp_ref=sports
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/11/record-rugby-defeat_n_3909493.html?utm_hp_ref=sports
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/10/fire-kiffin-chants-usc-fans-lane_n_3896449.html?utm_hp_ref=sports
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
What Would You Do?
This soldier gives a great response to a man's harassment of a Muslim.
Check it out.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/11/american-soldier-anti-mus_n_3906743.html
Check it out.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/11/american-soldier-anti-mus_n_3906743.html
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Thirty Years Ago
It was thirty years ago this Tuesday, September 10th, that I gave birth to Frankie. He was a premie, born a month early.
This was a difficult pregnancy, considered high risk.
The previous year I gave birth to our baby girl Lydia, who lived only two weeks. She had a multitude of medical issues, the most serious of which was having only one kidney, and that one was diseased.
After Lydia's death, the doctors suggested that we wait a while to have another child so that we could deal with all that had happened. However, I knew if we waited, I would have been too frightened to try again. So, against medical advice, I was pregnant with Frankie a couple of months later.
Two years earlier, when I was pregnant with Ben, I had surgery in my fifth month, and spent most of the last trimester on bed rest.
With Lydia, a year later, I was fine, but she had problems.
Now with Frankie, I had placenta previa, which was a serious condition with the potential of maternal hemorrhaging before or during labor.
We were in the Navy at this time, and had orders to go to the Philippines, but they were changed because the hospital there didn't have a neonatal intensive care unit. The orders were changed to Columbia, South Carolina instead.
Shortly after arriving in South Carolina, we purchased a home that we were so excited about. We moved in and in the excitement, I moved something too heavy and started to bleed. I was hospitalized for observation, then discharged with the order of no heavy lifting, moving etc. Ben was always big for his age and at two years old, he was already a bruiser. But he was two, so not picking him up every now and then was a challenge. At any rate, I promised to be on my best behavior and was discharged.
Of course, when I returned home, there was still furniture to move, and a toddler to care for.
So, you know what happened, right?
Yep, I managed to move something and I started to bleed again. This time when I was hospitalized, no amount of begging changed the doctor's mind. So, I spent the last month of the pregnancy in the hospital. It would have been two if I made it to full term. This was before the drive-by medical service that is the norm today.
Now I knew what it was like to lose a child, so you would think I would have erred on the side of caution. Only God knows what I was thinking.
While in the hospital the second time, I continued to bleed off and on, and after checking Frankie's vital organs, it was determined that he would be OK if delivered early, so the doctor said if I started to bleed again, they would do a caesarian section.
On a beautiful Saturday morning, with this plan in place, the bleeding resumed, and I was prepped for surgery. I called Frank, but he had to get Ben to a sitter before he could arrive. By the time he got there, Frankie was born.
He was a beautiful little guy, but he looked so much like his sister, that the first couple of weeks were filled with mixed emotions. We were thrilled he was here and healthy, but he looked so much like Lydia, he was also a reminder of our loss.
When he moved past the two weeks mark that Lydia lived, he came into his own.
When Ben met Frankie, he was absolutely thrilled with his new brother. He had one of the biggest smiles ever when he saw him the first time. That admiration continued until Frankie started to smile, and then Ben was through with him, but it was great while it lasted.
We settled into a routine where Frankie and I spent a lot of time together, while Ben was in preschool and Frank was at work. He and I would take a walk everyday. He loved being outside.
With Ben as his role model, he learned everything quicker. He walked at ten months, while Ben didn't walk until he was a year old. It was like that with all of the growth markers. It was like he was rushing to catch up with Ben.
It's hard to believe that it's been thirty years.
I remember this time like it was yesterday.
I was 27 years old, with two baby boys. Ben at 2 and Frankie a newborn.
When Frankie and Cara were expecting Zadie, I thought he was too young to be a father. Of course, he reminded me that I had both he and Ben by this same age. And of course, he was right.
My advice to everyone with little ones is . . . enjoy them. Spend time with them. Laugh with them. Listen to them. And love them like there's no tomorrow because if you're lucky, in the blink of an eye, they'll be grown, having kids of their own . . . like my baby boy.
Happy birthday Frankie.
Love, Mom
This was a difficult pregnancy, considered high risk.
The previous year I gave birth to our baby girl Lydia, who lived only two weeks. She had a multitude of medical issues, the most serious of which was having only one kidney, and that one was diseased.
After Lydia's death, the doctors suggested that we wait a while to have another child so that we could deal with all that had happened. However, I knew if we waited, I would have been too frightened to try again. So, against medical advice, I was pregnant with Frankie a couple of months later.
Two years earlier, when I was pregnant with Ben, I had surgery in my fifth month, and spent most of the last trimester on bed rest.
With Lydia, a year later, I was fine, but she had problems.
Now with Frankie, I had placenta previa, which was a serious condition with the potential of maternal hemorrhaging before or during labor.
We were in the Navy at this time, and had orders to go to the Philippines, but they were changed because the hospital there didn't have a neonatal intensive care unit. The orders were changed to Columbia, South Carolina instead.
Shortly after arriving in South Carolina, we purchased a home that we were so excited about. We moved in and in the excitement, I moved something too heavy and started to bleed. I was hospitalized for observation, then discharged with the order of no heavy lifting, moving etc. Ben was always big for his age and at two years old, he was already a bruiser. But he was two, so not picking him up every now and then was a challenge. At any rate, I promised to be on my best behavior and was discharged.
Of course, when I returned home, there was still furniture to move, and a toddler to care for.
So, you know what happened, right?
Yep, I managed to move something and I started to bleed again. This time when I was hospitalized, no amount of begging changed the doctor's mind. So, I spent the last month of the pregnancy in the hospital. It would have been two if I made it to full term. This was before the drive-by medical service that is the norm today.
Now I knew what it was like to lose a child, so you would think I would have erred on the side of caution. Only God knows what I was thinking.
While in the hospital the second time, I continued to bleed off and on, and after checking Frankie's vital organs, it was determined that he would be OK if delivered early, so the doctor said if I started to bleed again, they would do a caesarian section.
On a beautiful Saturday morning, with this plan in place, the bleeding resumed, and I was prepped for surgery. I called Frank, but he had to get Ben to a sitter before he could arrive. By the time he got there, Frankie was born.
He was a beautiful little guy, but he looked so much like his sister, that the first couple of weeks were filled with mixed emotions. We were thrilled he was here and healthy, but he looked so much like Lydia, he was also a reminder of our loss.
When he moved past the two weeks mark that Lydia lived, he came into his own.
When Ben met Frankie, he was absolutely thrilled with his new brother. He had one of the biggest smiles ever when he saw him the first time. That admiration continued until Frankie started to smile, and then Ben was through with him, but it was great while it lasted.
We settled into a routine where Frankie and I spent a lot of time together, while Ben was in preschool and Frank was at work. He and I would take a walk everyday. He loved being outside.
With Ben as his role model, he learned everything quicker. He walked at ten months, while Ben didn't walk until he was a year old. It was like that with all of the growth markers. It was like he was rushing to catch up with Ben.
It's hard to believe that it's been thirty years.
I remember this time like it was yesterday.
I was 27 years old, with two baby boys. Ben at 2 and Frankie a newborn.
When Frankie and Cara were expecting Zadie, I thought he was too young to be a father. Of course, he reminded me that I had both he and Ben by this same age. And of course, he was right.
My advice to everyone with little ones is . . . enjoy them. Spend time with them. Laugh with them. Listen to them. And love them like there's no tomorrow because if you're lucky, in the blink of an eye, they'll be grown, having kids of their own . . . like my baby boy.
Happy birthday Frankie.
Love, Mom
Before Blacks Ruled Basketball
Let's call this Sports Week.
Yesterday's post was about football. Today its basketball.
In both of these stories, it is so much more than just the game. It is about our society at that time and how sports were influenced by it.
Check out the story out below.
http://www.theroot.com/views/blacks-ruled-college-game?wpisrc=root_lightbox
For those of you who think this sports stuff is off base, remember - I only have brothers, and only have sons. I'm into sports by default.
Cheers.
Yesterday's post was about football. Today its basketball.
In both of these stories, it is so much more than just the game. It is about our society at that time and how sports were influenced by it.
Check out the story out below.
http://www.theroot.com/views/blacks-ruled-college-game?wpisrc=root_lightbox
For those of you who think this sports stuff is off base, remember - I only have brothers, and only have sons. I'm into sports by default.
Cheers.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
The Evolution of the Black Quarterbacks
This is a fascinating article on the long road traveled to the breakthrough of the first black college quarterback. It was heartwarming to see my alma mater, Florida A & M University, played a vital, although unheralded, role in the process.
http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2013/09/breaking_the_line_how_football_s_racial_breakthroughs_of_1967_paved_the.single.html
http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2013/09/breaking_the_line_how_football_s_racial_breakthroughs_of_1967_paved_the.single.html
Friday, September 6, 2013
Reunited
Here's an update on Ruby Bridges, the six year old who helped to integrate New Orleans schools in 1960. She recently met with one of the men who was charged with protecting her.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/06/ruby-bridges-marshal-photo_n_3877473.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/06/ruby-bridges-marshal-photo_n_3877473.html
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Read All About It . . .
"Addresses for Every Home in Abu Dhabi by 2015"
http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/address-for-every-home-by-2015?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Daily%2BNewsletter%2B05-09-2013
http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/address-for-every-home-by-2015?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Daily%2BNewsletter%2B05-09-2013
In Support of Gay Marriage
This Australian politician nails it.
http://www.upworthy.com/a-pastor-asks-a-politician-why-he-supports-gay-marriage-it-seems-he-wasnt-prepared-for-his-reply?c=upw1
http://www.upworthy.com/a-pastor-asks-a-politician-why-he-supports-gay-marriage-it-seems-he-wasnt-prepared-for-his-reply?c=upw1
This Kid is My Hero
This young man started a company two years ago that is worth $3.5 million!
Check him out for yourself.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/03/jaylen-bledsoe_n_3860585.html?utm_hp_ref=black-voices&ir=Black%20Voices
Check him out for yourself.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/03/jaylen-bledsoe_n_3860585.html?utm_hp_ref=black-voices&ir=Black%20Voices
Living Dangerously
As I was driving home today, a car pulled up quickly behind me, then raced to pass me, only to have to slow down, or in this case stop, for the roundabout traffic a half mile away. I pulled up behind this guy, but decided to get in another lane, at the last minute. Thank God I did.
I was sitting third behind a crane truck and a 15-seat van. We were waiting a while to move, although the traffic was clear to go. When we did finally move, I could see there was an accident. The car racing pass me had flipped over. Scores of people stopped to help, but I did not, knowing that I would only be in the way of the emergency response teams getting through.
My heart ached for this silly man. What could have been going on in his life that was so important he felt the needed to drive like a bat out of hell?
There is a real issue with speeding here. It is especially dangerous because of the huge, heavy vehicles on the roads, and as I've stated before, folks don't wear seat belts and kids are not secured in car seats. So when there is an accident, and there are many, it is nothing short of miraculous when people survive.
Country-wide initiatives are ongoing in an effort to educate the masses on the dangers of reckless driving. I can't see where they have been much help.
On a positive note, witnessing this crazy driving has caused me to be especially vigilant behind the wheel.
Here's hoping that your world is calm and safe.
I was sitting third behind a crane truck and a 15-seat van. We were waiting a while to move, although the traffic was clear to go. When we did finally move, I could see there was an accident. The car racing pass me had flipped over. Scores of people stopped to help, but I did not, knowing that I would only be in the way of the emergency response teams getting through.
My heart ached for this silly man. What could have been going on in his life that was so important he felt the needed to drive like a bat out of hell?
There is a real issue with speeding here. It is especially dangerous because of the huge, heavy vehicles on the roads, and as I've stated before, folks don't wear seat belts and kids are not secured in car seats. So when there is an accident, and there are many, it is nothing short of miraculous when people survive.
Country-wide initiatives are ongoing in an effort to educate the masses on the dangers of reckless driving. I can't see where they have been much help.
On a positive note, witnessing this crazy driving has caused me to be especially vigilant behind the wheel.
Here's hoping that your world is calm and safe.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Visiting Cuba . . .
Is on my bucket list.
It's time we, as a nation, called the powers that be in Cuba, and declared a truce. This bad blood between us has gone on long enough. Both sides need to apologize for the wrongs, and move on.
Some would say it's much more complicated than that.
I say, "Hog wash."
We simply need to get pass the past, agree to disagree, and move on.
In celebration of that thought, check out the pictures out of Cuba at the end of this link.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peggy-goldman/faces-of-cuba_b_3823598.html
Let's do like Larry the Cable Guy, and git-r-done!
It's time we, as a nation, called the powers that be in Cuba, and declared a truce. This bad blood between us has gone on long enough. Both sides need to apologize for the wrongs, and move on.
Some would say it's much more complicated than that.
I say, "Hog wash."
We simply need to get pass the past, agree to disagree, and move on.
In celebration of that thought, check out the pictures out of Cuba at the end of this link.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peggy-goldman/faces-of-cuba_b_3823598.html
Let's do like Larry the Cable Guy, and git-r-done!
Friday, August 30, 2013
An Amazing Message
This young man was suppose to speak at the March on Washington, but the other speakers ran over and he was cut. He has a message that needs to be heard.
Listen.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/30/phillip-agnew-march-on-washington_n_3842281.html
Listen.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/30/phillip-agnew-march-on-washington_n_3842281.html
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Adorable!
I love this little guy! Check out his facial expressions.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/29/orangutan-baby-rickina-video_n_3839162.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/29/orangutan-baby-rickina-video_n_3839162.html
Climate Change
If there was any doubt global warming is real, Hurricane Sandy should have muzzled all of the folks who deny this. As you know, of course, it did not.
Below is a video of a fabulous suggestion that should be heeded when naming this new extreme weather.
http://www.upworthy.com/this-is-probably-the-funniest-most-effective-way-to-deal-with-people-who-ignore-science-facts-ever-2?c=upw1
Below is a video of a fabulous suggestion that should be heeded when naming this new extreme weather.
http://www.upworthy.com/this-is-probably-the-funniest-most-effective-way-to-deal-with-people-who-ignore-science-facts-ever-2?c=upw1
Who Knew . . .
That reading GQ magazine could be so much fun?
I stumbled on an article that was featured in the September issue that was really well written, so I decided to take the plunge and check out the whole magazine.
It did not disappoint.
I'm only half way through, but . . .
There are great articles, interspersed with wonderful ads of sharply dressed men, modeling clothes that make you wanna scream, "Yes, Lord!"
Of course, the guys look like they're 12, but still.
So, for all of you men who aspire to be "GQ ready," subscribe today.
Ben & Frankie, your subscriptions (and early birthday gifts) are on the way.
And . . .
For all you ladies who enjoy a little drooling from time to time, this one is for you, too.
Side note - I never quite understood the allure of naked folks (OK, men), but well-dressed folks (yes, men) . . . well that's another story. I don't think there are naked folks featured in this magazine, but if there are, a swift swipe on my iPad will quickly eliminate them from my reading/gazing pleasure.
Side note 2 - I used to get on my guys for walking around in the streets with no shirts, especially after a workout at the gym. I used to preach to them that it was ghetto to strut like that and that no one was interested in their tatted up brown bodies. My mantra was, "If you don't see me naked from the waist up walking around town, then you shouldn't be either. Well, needless to say, it was one of the many battles I lost.
Side note 3 - I've always heard Playboy magazine has good articles. What do you think? Shall I try that one next?
I stumbled on an article that was featured in the September issue that was really well written, so I decided to take the plunge and check out the whole magazine.
It did not disappoint.
I'm only half way through, but . . .
There are great articles, interspersed with wonderful ads of sharply dressed men, modeling clothes that make you wanna scream, "Yes, Lord!"
Of course, the guys look like they're 12, but still.
So, for all of you men who aspire to be "GQ ready," subscribe today.
Ben & Frankie, your subscriptions (and early birthday gifts) are on the way.
And . . .
For all you ladies who enjoy a little drooling from time to time, this one is for you, too.
Side note - I never quite understood the allure of naked folks (OK, men), but well-dressed folks (yes, men) . . . well that's another story. I don't think there are naked folks featured in this magazine, but if there are, a swift swipe on my iPad will quickly eliminate them from my reading/gazing pleasure.
Side note 2 - I used to get on my guys for walking around in the streets with no shirts, especially after a workout at the gym. I used to preach to them that it was ghetto to strut like that and that no one was interested in their tatted up brown bodies. My mantra was, "If you don't see me naked from the waist up walking around town, then you shouldn't be either. Well, needless to say, it was one of the many battles I lost.
Side note 3 - I've always heard Playboy magazine has good articles. What do you think? Shall I try that one next?
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Super Heroes & Super Solutions?
For the super hero in your life, comes the really cool SuperMe Backpacks. They're sold on http://www.thegrommet.com.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og-nzw63GLI&feature=player_embedded
Also . . .
The following is an article on how Bogota, Columbia is addressing their homeless population. Could this be an option for the US? It brings a measure of dignity to those less fortunate.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/23/columbian-homeless-mobile-shelter_n_3804214.html?utm_hp_ref=latino-voices&ir=Latino%20Voices
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og-nzw63GLI&feature=player_embedded
Also . . .
The following is an article on how Bogota, Columbia is addressing their homeless population. Could this be an option for the US? It brings a measure of dignity to those less fortunate.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/23/columbian-homeless-mobile-shelter_n_3804214.html?utm_hp_ref=latino-voices&ir=Latino%20Voices
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
No Excuses!
I woke up this morning with this video in my inbox. Inspirational doesn't begin to describe the young man you'll see. Take the seven minutes to watch this and be motivated to do more, and . . . to be more.
http://www.upworthy.com/requirement-for-an-incredible-life-an-amazing-attitude-entirely-optional-extremities?c=upw1
http://www.upworthy.com/requirement-for-an-incredible-life-an-amazing-attitude-entirely-optional-extremities?c=upw1
Fascinating Maps
Take your time. These maps are really, really cool!
http://twistedsifter.com/2013/08/maps-that-will-help-you-make-sense-of-the-world/
http://twistedsifter.com/2013/08/maps-that-will-help-you-make-sense-of-the-world/
Monday, August 19, 2013
Old School
Here's a clip of Earth, Wind and Fire rehearsing a song from their latest album.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O40lWEXIEPE&feature=player_embedded
(If this doesn't work, google Earth, Wind & Fire, "My Promise")
Yes, most are senior citizens.
Yes, they're are being sponsored (or should be) by Ben-Gay.
Yes, they need to update their do's.
But . . .
They're still making fun music.
Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O40lWEXIEPE&feature=player_embedded
(If this doesn't work, google Earth, Wind & Fire, "My Promise")
Yes, most are senior citizens.
Yes, they're are being sponsored (or should be) by Ben-Gay.
Yes, they need to update their do's.
But . . .
They're still making fun music.
Enjoy!
Commercial
Ben and Frankie, ignore this.
Everyone else, enjoy.
http://www.upworthy.com/the-beer-marijuana-commercial-that-is-making-people-everywhere-rethink-their-position?c=upw1
Everyone else, enjoy.
http://www.upworthy.com/the-beer-marijuana-commercial-that-is-making-people-everywhere-rethink-their-position?c=upw1
Jellybean Life
Below is a link to a video illustrating our lives with each day represented by a jellybean.
It is a powerful message.
http://www.upworthy.com/this-dude-just-used-jelly-beans-to-convince-me-to-live-my-life-to-the-fullest-2?c=upw1
It is a powerful message.
http://www.upworthy.com/this-dude-just-used-jelly-beans-to-convince-me-to-live-my-life-to-the-fullest-2?c=upw1
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Jim Crow
With all of the publicity about the movie "The Butler," I'm reminded of growing up in the segregated South.
We owe a debt of eternal gratitude to the brave souls who confronted Jim Crow head on. God knows, things aren't perfect now, but they're better.
We're better.
At my home in Texas in the 50's, 60's and beyond, we didn't protest, object, or push back. My folks understood the real threat of harm for those who did, and they made sure we took a passive role of support. From the television, where the brutality of segregation was sometimes seen, we said a hushed thank you to the black and white folks who took up the mantle and made a positive difference for all of us.
But my folks were afraid to speak up.
Afraid of the backlash of protesting.
Afraid we'd come up missing.
Afraid we'd be hurt, or worse.
You see, terrorism was a real threat for many of us, long before 9/11.
When I think of this time, I wonder if the roles were reversed, if I would have responded differently.
I wonder . . . would I, like Ruby Bridges' parents, have sent Ben or Frankie off all alone, as first graders, to an all-white school that didn't want integration, knowing they would have been ridiculed and scorned, simply because they're black? Would I have allowed them to be treated so poorly and possibly even hurt?
Honestly, no. I wouldn't have.
But thank God, for those parents who did.
Where would we be, if someone had not said, "Enough is enough," and followed that with real action, ushering in real breakthroughs?
When race matters come up, black folks are often encouraged to "get over it" and "move on." I understand the comments, but I don't think the folks who are making these suggestions, get it. They don't seem to understand that every experience we go through (good, bad or indifferent), frames who we become and creates the lens through which we see the world.
Yes, times have changed.
And, yes . . .
Things are better.
But . . .
. . . when experience is not retained, as among savages, infancy is perpetual. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. - George Santayana
We owe a debt of eternal gratitude to the brave souls who confronted Jim Crow head on. God knows, things aren't perfect now, but they're better.
We're better.
At my home in Texas in the 50's, 60's and beyond, we didn't protest, object, or push back. My folks understood the real threat of harm for those who did, and they made sure we took a passive role of support. From the television, where the brutality of segregation was sometimes seen, we said a hushed thank you to the black and white folks who took up the mantle and made a positive difference for all of us.
But my folks were afraid to speak up.
Afraid of the backlash of protesting.
Afraid we'd come up missing.
Afraid we'd be hurt, or worse.
You see, terrorism was a real threat for many of us, long before 9/11.
When I think of this time, I wonder if the roles were reversed, if I would have responded differently.
I wonder . . . would I, like Ruby Bridges' parents, have sent Ben or Frankie off all alone, as first graders, to an all-white school that didn't want integration, knowing they would have been ridiculed and scorned, simply because they're black? Would I have allowed them to be treated so poorly and possibly even hurt?
Honestly, no. I wouldn't have.
But thank God, for those parents who did.
Where would we be, if someone had not said, "Enough is enough," and followed that with real action, ushering in real breakthroughs?
When race matters come up, black folks are often encouraged to "get over it" and "move on." I understand the comments, but I don't think the folks who are making these suggestions, get it. They don't seem to understand that every experience we go through (good, bad or indifferent), frames who we become and creates the lens through which we see the world.
Yes, times have changed.
And, yes . . .
Things are better.
But . . .
. . . when experience is not retained, as among savages, infancy is perpetual. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. - George Santayana
Friday, August 16, 2013
Great Message
Ashton Kutcher just went way up on the list of people I admire. See why below. Skip to 1.44 to avoid the screaming teens.
http://www.upworthy.com/ashton-kutcher-just-told-a-bunch-of-teenagers-how-to-be-sexy-in-the-smartest-way-ever-3?c=upw1
http://www.upworthy.com/ashton-kutcher-just-told-a-bunch-of-teenagers-how-to-be-sexy-in-the-smartest-way-ever-3?c=upw1
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Do the Right Thing
This supports my theory that most people are good, and will do the right thing.
Please watch this video clip from the Huffington Post and see if you agree.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/15/casey-neistat-do-right-th_n_3764501.html?ref=topbar
Please watch this video clip from the Huffington Post and see if you agree.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/15/casey-neistat-do-right-th_n_3764501.html?ref=topbar
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Precious Gems and a Tea Plantation
Below are some craftsmen at work, making rings.
The next day, we drove up a couple of hours north to higher elevations, where we visited a tea planation. I must admit, I was a little skeptical going to see an active planation because of the negative connotation that word implies. In this case, it refers to a tea farm, where it is grown and processed for consumption.
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| A fascinating fact is that there is no irrigation needed to grow tea here. The dew that forms in the higher elevations is all the moisture needed. The ground is a red soil that is very, very fertile. |
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| A snake charmer on the side of the road. |
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| A daring soul! |
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| Closeup view of tea leaves. Interestingly, all variation of teas come from the same leaves, with rare exception. Green tea uses the baby leaves, and black tea uses the whole plant - leaves and stem. The differences come from mixing leaves once they are processed. |
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| This is what it looks like to harvest the tea. The string on these baskets are put on your head, and the basket rests on your back. Not a comfortable feel, at all. |
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| A view of baby leaves. |
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| The name of the tea company. |
This was a tough day, as we spent eight hours on the bus. The charm of the two lane roads quickly faded when it took 3.5 hours to travel 30 miles. The roads were populated with big work trucks, public buses and TukTuks. The traffic jams and just slow movement caused by these vehicles jockeying for their spot on the road, was crazy at times.
We rolled into Colombo at 8:30 that night, needing to sleep in. Thankfully, that was the plan.
At about noon, once we checked out of the hotel, we were to take a city tour of Colombo, as we just passed through it from the airport on our way to Kandy, and then hang out until departure time. I opted out of the tour, and rested instead. Not surprisingly, I was the only one who looked alive when we reached Dubai.
Random Pix
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| Hotel #2 in Kandy. Can't remember the name. |
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| View from my window. |
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| This note was in the window of my room in the Queen's Hotel. Unfortunately, there were no monkey sightings. |
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| A relic form the past. |
Don't read any more books recommended by Oprah. I devoured The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, finishing it in less than two days, reading it the entire flight. It was an awesome read until the end. Then it had a typically sad and dreary ending (like most of her books) and I was sorry I was suckered in . . . again.
Well, that's it folks.
This concludes my adventures in Sri Lanka, a land I'd visit again in a heartbeat (in spite of the traffic).
Backtracking to Day 1 in Kandy
Here are some highlights of the first day in Kandy.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
The following pictures are from the Regent Spice Garden.
The Queen's Hotel where we stayed the night.
There was a photographer in the lobby taking wedding pictures for a wedding that was to happen later that morning. Interestingly, weddings are not performed in the Buddhist Temples. Instead they are held in hotels or reception halls. We saw three weddings this day. Also of note, the prospective bride and groom confer with astrological charts to determine the best day to get married. I wonder if the divorced rate in lower because of that?
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| Orange or "King's Coconut" |
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
 |
| They're marching through the streets, headed to lunch. |
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| Going to lunch. |
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| The Spice Doctor |
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| Sandalwood Tree |
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| View of the garden. |
The Queen's Hotel where we stayed the night.
There was a photographer in the lobby taking wedding pictures for a wedding that was to happen later that morning. Interestingly, weddings are not performed in the Buddhist Temples. Instead they are held in hotels or reception halls. We saw three weddings this day. Also of note, the prospective bride and groom confer with astrological charts to determine the best day to get married. I wonder if the divorced rate in lower because of that?
 |
| The little boys are a part of a wedding party. The one on the right doesn't look like he's too excited about the festivities. |
 |
| Don't the boys have the coolest shoes? |
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| The little girls in the wedding party. |
Later in the day, kids on a field trip. Students throughout the country wear white uniforms to school.
Lost & Ditching in Kandy
Allow me to explain the title.
Today was another full day, which I'll get into in greater detail in a minute. First, there is a culture dance show that happens everyday at 5:00. It occurs each day just for tourists. There are that many folks who visit where they are able to fill an auditorium each night.
Well, the 20 or so in my group were scattered throughout the building, and when it was over, God only knows where any of them were. I couldn't find the bus we were traveling in, so I decided to take a TukTuk back to the hotel.
I missed a visit to a famous temple, but we would have gotten home at about 10:00, and quite frankly, I hoped to be sleep by then. Thus my "lost & ditching" adventure.
The day began with a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden.
Wow!
Here are a couple of videos of the cultural dances. Here's hoping they uploaded OK.
Today was another full day, which I'll get into in greater detail in a minute. First, there is a culture dance show that happens everyday at 5:00. It occurs each day just for tourists. There are that many folks who visit where they are able to fill an auditorium each night.
Well, the 20 or so in my group were scattered throughout the building, and when it was over, God only knows where any of them were. I couldn't find the bus we were traveling in, so I decided to take a TukTuk back to the hotel.
I missed a visit to a famous temple, but we would have gotten home at about 10:00, and quite frankly, I hoped to be sleep by then. Thus my "lost & ditching" adventure.
The day began with a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden.
Wow!
 |
| The trees are called the "drunken cypress." |
Here are a couple of videos of the cultural dances. Here's hoping they uploaded OK.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Kandy, Sri Lanka
The day began with an hour delay out of Sharjah. The 4.5 hour redeye seemed a lot longer because I was surrounded by little people - three in front, and one across the aisle. The three in front were wonderful - 4 year old twin boys and their two year old brother. Sweet as pie. Their Mom and Dad made sure they were settled, each with an iPad, and at two and four years old, they put me to shame the way they were racing from app to app, having a grand time.
The toddler across the way was the little booger.
He screamed from the time we took off, for three hours . . . straight.
Yes.
You read that right.
Three freaking hours.
And . . .
His Mom and Dad did absolutely nothing to calm him down. By the three hour mark, several folks stopped by their seats, but it was only when the flight attendant asked them to go to the galley, did any of us get any peace.
Now, we've probably all experienced traveling with a cranky kid, but I'm sure each of us did everything we could to settle our little people down.
It was really frustrating and rude for these parents to do nothing . . . nada . . . to shut this kid up. You know, maybe walk with him, sing to him, feed him, bounce him up and down.
Anything.
Anything at all, but they just sat there and let the kid wail.
Thank God, once we landed, things went very smooth and Sri Lanka was a sight to behold.
Luscious greenery at every turn. There are mountains all around, covered with trees that are a deep shade of green. It looks like one huge garden that is in full bloom, with no fruit or vegetables yet. Once the fruit and vegetable appear and are ripe, the green stems turn to brown, and the garden isn't as colorful anymore.
Anyway, that description doesn't begin to describe how beautiful this place is.
The city of Kandy has not been exploited by rapid growth. In fact, being here, you kind of step back in time. The roads were two-lane throughout our three hour travel from Colombo to Kandy. No fancy places. No big, new buildings. Everything looked like it has been here a while.
It reminded me a lot of India, but it is so very clean. Everywhere. You can tell, these are a proud people.
It is so much more inviting than India because of this.
Side note - I really have to read the fine print on my travel plans through GroupOn (which I love, by the way). I assumed, or rather hoped, that we would be at our destination within the hour after landing. It was a three hour trip. After a couple of hours on the road, all of us were starting to nod off, when we made a quick stop to grab something to eat. From there, an hour or so later, we came to the Elephant Refuge, that has more than 60 elephants, from the very young to the old timers, enjoying the day in a shallow river. There are hotels and restaurants built into the side of the river, and the elephants are close enough to touch, but we were advised not to.
Then it was lunch time for them, and they march up the path we had just walked down to see them. It was an incredible sight to see the elephants marching through town, looking like they were ready to shop, but by the time I got my camera out and ready, they had turned the corner and were out of sight.
Oh well.
Next, we went a little further down the main drag, and those of us who wanted to, could ride an elephant. Since I rode one when I was in Thailand, it wasn't a priority for me, but there was another single girl, so I rode with her. In Bangkok, the elephant I rode was fitted with a basket with two seats, so it was just like sitting in a chair. This time, there was just a blanket on the elephant, so you could really feel him moving beneath you.
After leaving here, our sleepless night was catching up with us, as we'd had a full day with little or no sleep, so we're all ready to head to the hotel.
There was another stop though, to an herb and spice garden, where we were introduced to all kinds of things used as natural remedies for all kinds of ailments. It was way more informative and exciting than I would have ever imagined.
Then, the guy doing the demo, mentioned some concoction as great for reviving tired, achy bodies. Almost as if on cue, about 10 guys appeared out of no where, and offered massages.
For those of you who know me, you know I'm not a fan of them, but my God, this guy's hands were magical. What a rubbing good time I had!
Of course, we were given the opportunity to buy the potions, and that took a while. My group/bus had 26 folks.
Once we were all accounted for, we spent another half hour or so on the road, then we arrived for our home for the night. We were scheduled to be here two days, but that changed, so it's just for one night.
If you've made it to the end of this post, God bless you!
The one downside of traveling alone is having to wait until I write, to share my experiences. It was such a great day, after a not so great start, that I didn't want to leave any part out.
I'm off to bed now.
Good night to me (we're 12.5 hours head of Pacific time; 1.5 hours head of Abu Dhabi)
Good morning to you.
PS.: I have lots of pictures. I'll upload them when I get home.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Ingenious!
For every woman who has suffered through a hot flash, "Hot Girls Pearls" were designed with you in mind.
This is absolutely ingenious!
http://www.thegrommet.com/hot-girls-pearls-body-cooling-jewelry
They're available on Amazon, too.
This is absolutely ingenious!
http://www.thegrommet.com/hot-girls-pearls-body-cooling-jewelry
They're available on Amazon, too.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Great Graduation Speech
Below please find the link to George Saunders' speech to the 2013 graduating class of Syracuse University. It's a powerful message.
http://6thfloor.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/george-saunderss-advice-to-graduates/?_r=0
http://6thfloor.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/george-saunderss-advice-to-graduates/?_r=0
Sunday, August 4, 2013
What If?
What if you accidentally found a letter your spouse wrote to you long ago, that is sealed, and labeled "to be read in the event of my death?"
But what if he was very much alive, do you tell him you've found it?
Assuming you do tell him, once he knows that you know about it, do you honor his request and not open it?
Or, does your curiosity get the best of you, and you read it?
This is the premise of the best book I've read . . . ever.
It's entitled, The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriaty.
As I've mentioned before, I love to read, but my least favorite part of any book is the beginning. It's like you're walking into a room where someone is in the middle of telling a story, and you're trying to figure out who they are and how do they fit in the story being told.
Sometimes I'm tempted to write down all of the characters, to keep them straight in my head.
This book begins like this. The first three or four chapters are about different people, in seemingly unrelated existence to each other. So, you have to stick with it to see how they all fit together.
And just when you think you have it all figured out, there's a whole new layer added to the mix.
This book is very, very highly recommended.
Side note -
Today is my 57th birthday. In the last six years, it has been tempered by the memories of my brother Terry's death. You see his birthday was August 2nd, three days before mine. He would have been 58. So as much as I appreciate my mine, it is bittersweet.
Birthdays are usually times of reflection. They are for me. I think about all of the wonderful people in my life, and how, in spite of some tough times along the way, I'm richer because of these relationships.
I haven't gone out of my apartment in several days, and have no plans to leave today. I really am hiding from the heat. On Wednesday I'm headed to Sri Lanka for a few days, where it will be 20 degrees cooler.
As always, thank you for sharing this time and these experiences with me. Knowing you're out there, connected through this blog, makes this time even more rewarding.
Good night to you.
Good morning to me.
But what if he was very much alive, do you tell him you've found it?
Assuming you do tell him, once he knows that you know about it, do you honor his request and not open it?
Or, does your curiosity get the best of you, and you read it?
This is the premise of the best book I've read . . . ever.
It's entitled, The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriaty.
As I've mentioned before, I love to read, but my least favorite part of any book is the beginning. It's like you're walking into a room where someone is in the middle of telling a story, and you're trying to figure out who they are and how do they fit in the story being told.
Sometimes I'm tempted to write down all of the characters, to keep them straight in my head.
This book begins like this. The first three or four chapters are about different people, in seemingly unrelated existence to each other. So, you have to stick with it to see how they all fit together.
And just when you think you have it all figured out, there's a whole new layer added to the mix.
This book is very, very highly recommended.
Side note -
Today is my 57th birthday. In the last six years, it has been tempered by the memories of my brother Terry's death. You see his birthday was August 2nd, three days before mine. He would have been 58. So as much as I appreciate my mine, it is bittersweet.
Birthdays are usually times of reflection. They are for me. I think about all of the wonderful people in my life, and how, in spite of some tough times along the way, I'm richer because of these relationships.
I haven't gone out of my apartment in several days, and have no plans to leave today. I really am hiding from the heat. On Wednesday I'm headed to Sri Lanka for a few days, where it will be 20 degrees cooler.
As always, thank you for sharing this time and these experiences with me. Knowing you're out there, connected through this blog, makes this time even more rewarding.
Good night to you.
Good morning to me.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Proud Grandma
Please indulge me for a moment as I slip into the very proud grandma role, and share a couple of pictures of my girls with you.
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| Milu at 6 months |
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| Zadie at 2.5 years old |
Replacing Lost Documents
Here's hoping you're never in the position of having to replace vital documents, but this link provides a wealth of information in where to go and how to get it done.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jason-alderman/how-to-replace-important_b_3689907.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jason-alderman/how-to-replace-important_b_3689907.html
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Thoughts?
The following is a link to an article about a young man who was fired for shaming customers with a tweet.
What do you think?
http://www.theawl.com/2013/07/millennial-fired-for-tweet
Obnoxious kid or unsupportive employer?
What do you think?
http://www.theawl.com/2013/07/millennial-fired-for-tweet
Obnoxious kid or unsupportive employer?
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