Happy Birthday to Me!

It is that time again...my birthday!  Happy Birthday to me...

Today plans to be a low-key day.  Want to know why?  Because I am working at both jobs today.  You know bills don't stop coming just because it is your birthday.  And you know the fight between me and the lizard although a draw, still cut into my money so a girl has to do what a girl has to do.  Go to work. 

Don't fret I took off a couple of days at the end of the week to just chill out, sleep in, make ice cream and drink wine.  What?  That isn't what most people do for their birthdays?  Oh well, I am a bit different. 

By the way, I am 44 today.  Go me!  And looking at this picture you can't tell either! 

                         

Flexirods on the ends of a ponytail, gave me some loose curls with only 8 hours to set after my wash yesterday

I am so thankful to see another year.  Did you know I am older than my mother lived to be?  So, I am grateful for another year.  I am blessed!

Enjoy your week!

About My Brother...Christopher

My brother...Christopher, Culinary Arts Student

I haven’t talked much on this blog about my brother since he was released in 2011. October of that year was monumental because my brother was going home and I was so glad. I was also a bit nervous because he had been incarcerated since he was 18 years old. And he came out in his mid 30s, learning curve much? I am so proud to brag about him in this post.


Upon being released, he immediately did what he was supposed to do and see his probation officer and he was told he didn’t have supervised probation and his probation officer told him and my sister one very interesting fact. Because my brother was incarcerated at such a young age, his chances of recidivism were much less than most being released. Interesting fact. He also started learning about the changes in the world since he had been incarcerated. He got a cell phone; he got a job and was slowly re-acclimating his way back into society. And believe me it wasn’t easy.

My brother did more in the first six months of his release then most folks do in years of their lives. He applied for culinary school, got accepted and started the arduous task of applying for financial aid. He got his first laptop and e-reader. He learned the public transportation system and he began his journey to securing his career freedom.

This is the 2nd cake he posted on FB and he is definitely developing his skills

In July of 2012, he got a scooter because he worked weekends and at night and since he didn’t have a car yet or his driver’s license he rode that scooter. He has learned to be responsible for himself, because let’s face it he is a grown man. And shortly thereafter, he got his drivers’ license and his first car. I told him before he got his license, “Driving is freedom.” And he thanks me constantly for telling him that little gem.

I finally got to see him in February, but it wasn’t necessarily the way I wanted to see him after 18 or so years, because his father, my stepfather passed. It was still awesomely strange and good to have all three of us under the same roof.

I am proud all the accomplishments my brother has made since his release. He hasn’t sat around waiting on folks to do things for him he has made things happen. He has called my sister and I on occasion for advice and whether takes it or not, he at least was open to hearing what we had to say. He set several goals for himself upon his release and he only has one more goal to accomplish and that is getting his own place. And in June, he can cross that off his list. His journey is continuing and although it hasn’t been all laughs and sunshine, he has managed to keep his eye on the prize. He has so many folks who support him and it is a testament of how much we believe in him.

Crawfish Etoufee

When his father died, he had to withdraw from culinary school because he would miss too many days. And that bothered me, because I didn’t want him to have too much free time. He actually found an additional job, but he had two of his instructors argue for him to have him reinstated for the semester and guess, what? He was back in class. I was so happy. He is good at what he does and his passion for the culinary arts is never wavering. I know one day soon he will have his own restaurant because he has the belief, the passion and the confidence to make it happen. He wrote down his goals and he is making them happen!

Flourless chocolate cake with strawberry sauce and espresso sauce.  Garnished with caramel, pecan crumbles and homemade whipped cream.  This was his perfect 5, the chefs rarely give 5's and this was his perfect plate.

Side note: When folks see pictures of my brother, they always ask me if he is single. I in turn remind them he is my baby brother and I don’t play that shyte. Then I tell them he does have a girlfriend.

  Not everyone is given a second chance to do better, but when it happens and you see it happen one can't help but be proud!...Cashana

About Last Weekend...

Walk of Life, April 20, 2013

I had a long weekend and it was quite welcome to say the least. I spent most of last week suffering from an aching back. I either need to stop sleeping contorted or invest in a new mattress, because this is a new week and my back is giving me fits again. This is so not the business, because it has me scrapping plans and such just so I can rest.


I had a pretty busy weekend planned because I volunteered for the Joy to Life walk on Saturday and I wanted to get my gardening started.

Last week our temperatures were ranging in the upper 80s until Friday. Then on Friday the temperatures dropped and you felt it immediately. So I am on my second job trying to figure out an alternative to my shorts I planned to wear on Saturday. I actually woke up on time Saturday at 5:30 am so I could take my time getting dressed, because I did go through 3 different outfits before I was satisfied. What was that all about? Geez. I thought leaving at 6:30 am would give me plenty of time to get parking and walk to the Train shed where we picked up our Volunteer shirts and gather to take the trolley to our posts. Well…I forgot they closed off streets so I ended up taking an extra 5 minutes to get to the parking area, but I was still there before 7 am. I met a lady in the parking deck, who followed me because she figured correctly I was a volunteer. We signed in and got coffee and donuts. Since they were free I shouldn’t complain, but I am going to be truthful. I do not like McD’s coffee and I am not a fan of Dunkin D’s donuts. I am a Krispy Kreme fan and I seriously think it is about ones’ taste, but I ate one donut because I didn’t want to get hungry if things take longer than expected.

I was in the number 15 post there were 21 positions for volunteers along the course. I was dropped off a little after 7:30 am and man it was cold, I was standing in the sun as much as possible. I texted The Guy and my Sister and told them I am not a good candidate for selling azz on the corner, because it is lonely on the corner. LOL! So I had to stand for an hour or so before the 5k began. During this moment of quiet, I was a bit thoughtful but I was running through my errands in my head, ugh I am such a Virgo. Anyway, these two guys jogged by me twice I guess getting in their morning run before the race starts and the course is truly blocked off. Little did I know they were doing a trial run. I found out later because one of the guys had a personal police escort since he was going to be the first person to finish. He ran pass me and it was literally 5 minutes before the other guy doing the trial run came by me. I was so excited to see the runners because they were doing the dang thang. When the first female ran by me I was like, you go girl! You are setting the pace for the women and you are the first female to run pass me. Black girls do run because there were several running. And then there was a lull and finally the walkers started coming through. I greeted them all with a hearty and heartfelt good morning and good jobs. I thought I would be quite awkward, but I was comfortable.

Yet, as the time seemed to drag along I finally saw the Trolley behind the last walker on the first down street. By now the some of the walker were ready for it to be over. They kept asking me how far? Hell if I knew. I said not much further and you have come this far you can do it! Trying to be encouraging. But some folks cheated and took a short cut. SMH!

Don't laugh at me being creative...Me on the corner, with my flag, ready to assist...

There was a moment where I felt a bit overwhelmed because so many folks thanked me for volunteering. I really didn’t think much of what I was doing it was simply wave a flag, cheer the folks on and give directions if needed. I thanked them in returned because we were both helping.

The last walker was a woman using a walker who had an ambulance escort and the trolley behind her. Let me tell you, I cheered her on and said I was proud of her because she walked with her walker the entire course. No shortcuts for her and if she can do it anyone can. When she crossed the finished line she got the biggest cheer. Perseverance.

My volunteer work was finished before 10 am, so I ran my errands and was in my bed by noon. I had the intentions of getting up before 4 pm to work on my garden. And I did get up, but I dragged until it was time to get the raised garden put together. But I did it and was quite proud of myself. Although, I am too old to be sickened by slugs and shit I was still hollering and carrying on. I think I did a good job with the first part. I did get a new raised garden, which is a mixture of recycled wood and plastic, I feel like it will last more than one season because last’s year’s garden, didn’t.

Smaller bed, but better materials and because I already had the area set aside, it was leveled from last year.

Sunday morning I dragged yet again, but got up and planted my tomato plants and my seeds for flowers and vegetables. I was glad I was able to do such a good job. You know there was some drama right? Why was there a green frog on one of my planters? I almost had a forget it moment! I got the water hose and sprayed him away from my planters only to look under my planters and find wasps and the beginnings of wasps’ nests? Got rid of them too! I even managed to fix a new dish for my Creative Cooking posts. Go me!

Grape tomatoes, cucumbers and zucchini and Marigolds in the far left corner.

Basil, lettuce, spinach, cilantro, green onions, Marigolds, Zinnias, Portulaca (Moss Roses).  I also planted Sunflowers and Cone flowers.

I had a pretty busy weekend for me, but it felt good to do something for others and still find time to do something that makes me happy as well.

My poor roses suffered this fall and winter and I only had 2 buds, but I took some time a few weeks ago to prune, treat and prepare it for the spring/summer and I got this gift, my first bloom.  And as you can see it is set to bloom for a while.

Tales from the Second Job...

As I have mentioned a few times on this blog, I have a second job working at a family own fast-casual restaurant. Since I have worked there I have received 3 degrees and although I could have moved on years ago, my loyalty to the family and the need to impart a little wisdom to young folks have kept me there long after I said I would leave when the original owner died. Refreshing your memory, one of my duties besides supervising a group of young folks is to interview, hire and do orientation with the new hires.


Although besides the owner there are two other managers, I am the only one who interviews and have been doing so for almost 20 years. Yeah, a long time. In all my years I have noticed a change in the mentality of the youth who apply and actually get hired. For most, this job will be their first. I always tell first time workers the same thing. Your first job sets up your work ethic. If you maintain a hardworking and wonderful work ethic here, you will take that ethic to the next job you get because this job is meant to be your stepping stone to bigger and better things. Yet, I am seeing something totally different from new hires. These kids are spoiled, lazy and seriously have no idea there are ramifications and consequences for bad behavior.

I will give you a few examples. I make the work schedule every week. I normally finish it on the Sunday before the schedule is posted and give workers until Tuesday at 5 pm to ask for days off, because when I leave Tuesday night the schedule is done. I cannot tell you how many will post a requested day off on Wednesday and are surprised on Thursday they didn’t get their day off. Mind you on the schedule request sheet, it has the disclaimer about Tuesday at 5 pm. Yeah. The rule is if you need a day off after the schedule is posted, you must find someone to cover you, not management. You. They will call the day before or the day of and say they can’t work because they have a paper due, their dog’s sick or something equally ridiculous. The manager just tells them okay and writes it up in our manager’s book. Do it on my shift. My response is you have three choices: find someone to work for you, I will see you in a few or you quit. They come to work. It is easier that way.

I recently hired a young lady who was vibrant, personable, friendly and experienced to work for us. She had one of those memorable personalities. She also had great references. Seriously, amazing references. So when I called hire her she was excited and ready to work. So we schedule orientation and I always tell them to bring in picture ID and their social security cards and dress prepared to work. Although they will not work a whole shift, they will be shown the restaurant and the ins and outs of their position. Sighing…She shows up for the orientation one minute before time. And she is in wedges. With a big ole tattoo on her forearm. We do not hire folks with visible tattoos. If it is found you have one you have to cover it at all times when working. When I saw it, in my heart I knew this girl wasn’t going to make it. As soon as I saw it, I told her I didn’t realize she had a visible tattoo and she must cover it. She was all amicable about covering and saying at her previous job she covered it with makeup. Cool. Right? We made it through orientation and discussed the rules and regulations and I even made an adjustment so she could come in 30 minutes later to work during the week. Copacetic right? Sighing. After her first night working she was given rave reviews. Good. However, I worked with her that Friday. I hadn’t even clocked in when I saw the tattoo. I immediately told her to cover it up or go home. She asked for band-aids and covered it, but it made me upset because we discussed this thoroughly during orientation. And I find out later the cashiers on duty told her she needed to cover it up before Ms. Cashana gets in because she doesn’t play about tattoos. She responded, “I am just going to see if she says anything.” Sighing. During the shift, I realized this personable young lady from her interview and orientation, was not so friendly and she had a slight attitude. Sighing. We made it through Friday and she worked with the owner one during that weekend and he saw the band aid on her arm and was not impressed. What happened to the make up? After she had been there a week, at our Tuesday meeting the other manager said she wasn’t going to work out. My first thought was have we told her about her deficiencies? If not, that is our first course of action and goes from there and if we do not see immediate improvement, then we let her go.

Sighing. As adults, if your supervisor sits you down with a correction memo with items that need to be improved upon, don’t we realize shyte is real and we need to get ourselves together? With these kids, sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t. I wrote the memo and outlined the deficiencies and what needed to be done. Well, the other manager presented it to her and she said she saw a little improvement. However, the young lady told the other cashier, “I am going to tell Ms. Cashana about herself.” I am still waiting on that sit down. I worked with her a few days after the memo and after I cut her days. She asked everyone in the store why her hours were cut but me. Remember I make the schedule. Sighing. I saw some improvement, but by the end of the night I was counting to ten because of her.

Then the other cashiers requested not to work with her. Why? Because she is lazy, rude and has an attitude. Wow! Then the manager told me she did her work for her one night and I told her if she isn’t going to do her job, why is she here? Then this young lady whose hours were cut for a reason started begging the other cashiers for their days. I was livid. I told one cashier you have to work your shift so call and tell her that is a no-go. Then I put in the manager’s book it is not okay for the cashier to garner more hours when I cut them. I need to see marked improvement. I do not reward bad behavior.

She was recently fired for voiding orders under a manager’s employee number and lying about them.

Moral to this story when you get that intuition shyte gonna be bad, believe it.

Rambling My New Normal...Randoms

I am back…I hope. You may want to grab a cold one or a hot drink because this sucker is long. Really long. I have tons of pictures and lots to say. I am reminded I must not ever take such a long break from blogging.


First, I would like to thank those who offered condolences for the loss of my stepfather. I am sorry I didn’t respond back, but as you can imagine things during this time were stressful and exhausting. I saw them and I do appreciate the time you took to respond.

So let’s begin the randoms and ramblings back to that week. My stepfather was in the hospital five days before my sister even knew he had been hospitalized for a ruptured appendix. When she found out on Tuesday evening she called me and I in turn called his hospital room. He told me what happened and then I admonished him for not letting his family know because he has a daughter in California and his son is in Virginia Beach. My stepfather loved to laugh and even though I was giving him the business he was laughing. He even told me to stop making him laugh because it made his stitches hurt. I told him I wasn’t sure if I would be able to make it to the hospital but I was sending my cousin over to check on him. He said, “Shana, I appreciate you just calling and checking on me and that is enough for me.” Little did I know…

I implore you to make sure you have business in order. Make sure you have a will and make sure folks know what your final wishes are, because without that information things can get messy. My stepfather’s affairs were messy. He was legally separated from his wife, but he had a girlfriend who lived with him. I was the one at the hospital irked the officials were ignoring me and my stepfather’s brother to talk to the girlfriend but she told them she was his wife. My words, “He has a wife, but she lives in Virginia Beach. She will be calling so make sure you give her the information she requests.” Talking about some common-law shit. I wasn’t having it and when things went down, his first daughter had to be the one to sign papers and the girlfriend…never mind. Make sure your affairs are in order.

I got to see my brother. He flew into Birmingham and my folks picked him up from the airport. I forewarned him they were extra excited to see him so buck up and be prepared. My brother is big ya’ll. When I last saw him he was 17 years old. He ain’t 17 anymore. He gave me the biggest hug ever. But why he got to call me big sis? Geez, both my brother and sister are taller than me. Much taller.

My sister and her brood arrived Saturday evening. In fact, I was home before they got to my house and I worked that night. My sister was so frustrated trying to get to Alabama, because all the planning for my stepfather’s funeral fell on her. I told her the banks were closed and I couldn’t get her bail money if she messed someone up. At this point there were 5 people staying at my house. This is important okay?

The Sunday after they arrived, my sister went to the “country” to talk to the girlfriend. It didn’t go so well. The girlfriend said me and my cousin were starting with her. What the hell was she talking about? Mad because I told the truth in the hospital, byotch please!

Mind you I kept going to my second job and only took off 3 days from my fulltime job. This is important okay?

We were both like, "What the hell?"  Just before they left...

Lala wasn’t feeling me at all. She would be screaming and tearing up the den and as soon as I walked in the room she would shut it down. A mess. One evening she was playing with her mom’s phone so I decided to call and when she saw my face she threw the phone down screaming and hollering. A mess. Seriously, if you put her in any vicinity of me she would go to screaming. But things got better eventually.

She sees me, but she ain't acknowledging me.  And her stance was do not touch me, lady!

My sister’s stepmom and her oldest daughter arrived on Tuesday. So the number is up to 6 people in my home.

Pat was touched I invited her to stay, but I felt it was what I was supposed to do. I just prayed she wouldn’t work my nerves, because she can worry you to death if you let her. Pat had to be there because in reality, her still being married to my stepfather meant certain things fell upon her to deal with.

The funeral home that was chosen for my stepfather, wasn’t one known by me. And for the record, they were the worst I had ever had the pleasure to deal with. They weren’t like the folks who handled my mother’s, aunt’s or uncle’s funeral. My sister, brother, Pat and my stepfather’s brother had to do all the leg work. All of it. They had to go to the VA to get the flag for the ceremony, because my stepfather retired from the Navy. They had to locate the burial information. The funeral home director was late for the funeral. The notice in the paper wasn’t done to my sister’s specification. They couldn’t do a wake because the funeral home said because they were burying him on a Saturday and to do a wake on the Wednesday prior would cause problems because he was a donor. Bones, tissues, eyes and muscle donor. They told my sister he would be “leaking” before Saturday and they didn’t want that to happen. Mind you, no one could see the body until Friday before the funeral. I felt bad for my sister because I wanted him to look as good as possible. And he did. But the funeral home director was asked by my sister why they cut his beard and they said he didn’t have beard, but his side burns were too long. Liar. I know he had a beard that was absolutely beautiful it was salt and pepper and gorgeous I touched it when I saw him. I hate when folks lie to me. For the record, he was leaking on Saturday. Sighing…

The Thursday before the funeral my sister’s best friend arrived and my sister’s husband had to leave. The count in my home was up to 7. And by this point, Pat wouldn’t stop cooking and filling my refrigerator up with leftovers no one was going to eat. Seriously, by Thursday she was making some intricate dish that I knew I wasn’t going to eat. I do not under any circumstances eat white sauces. No can do. Cheese, which you know I am no fan of. I needed a break from my own damn house. My sister, her friend and I headed to the mall, Wally world and out to get happy hour drinks and eats. My nerves were on edge. When we got back home about an hour or so before Scandal, we were nice and mellow. And I politely told Pat not to cook another damn thing. My refrigerator looked like the bulbs were blown because of all the food in that sucker.

The funeral brought all the cousins together to reminisce about the old days. Why did they remember I hated to go outside? Why? I guess because I did. We (cousins) had to go to my stepfather’s home to try and retrieve any paperwork we could find. However, the girlfriend locked the door. My brother tried to break the door, but we didn’t really want to do that. I noticed a screwdriver on the porch and I ever so quietly popped the lock. When I turned around to let them know we could go in and everyone had their mouths open wide. In shock. I had to start explaining myself. “Look, I don’t do this type thing for a living, but I know how to do it and it ain’t that difficult.” Then they couldn’t stop laughing.

My gorgeous, blessed with the Voice, Niece.

The funeral went well. My sister and brother spoke so well and it was just a moving ceremony. My 18 year old niece sang the gospel song about this old building has a leak and she tore that song up. I was being a G up until that point. You know shades on and no tears. When she hit “that” note. I was done. Shades came off and tears were flowing and wouldn’t stop. I swear “that” sounded like my mama singing. We all said, “Betty Jean showed up at the funeral!” We didn’t have any visitor’s show out as anticipated because we were prepared to deal with the situation. Then we went to the gravesite which is on the church grounds, um, did I mention this was in the country? And let me tell you something, I do not care for men in uniform. Not at all. But, baby when the Honor guard was doing their thing I was in love. Those dudes were precision and they looked good as well. I had to tilt the shades because I didn’t want to miss a thing. And when they shook our hands, I think I may have held their grasp a little too long.

And as we were waiting to go back into the church, The Guy caught up with me. And ya’ll I was just so happy to see him there. To know he cared enough for me to be there for me and my siblings just meant the world to me. For the record, he meet my other family members, who live right here for the first time. I almost felt guilty about lusting after the honor guards. I said almost. Yes, he reads this blog. But he knows what is up.

The Cousins...I am still waiting on the good picture!

We got a picture with all the cousins. We only had one missing and he wasn’t able to make the funeral, but I saw him the weekend before when he came by my second job with his wild kids. They were bad rambunctious, ya’ll. Cute but OMG!

While at the repast, the cousins were cooking up a plan to find some cards and dranks for later. And my cousin was only too happy to oblige. Funerals calm me down when they are over. I just want to sleep. Some folks want to party. And they did.

I love my family but by Saturday I was ready for some quiet and my house to be clean again. Everyone left on Sunday. I washed about 6 loads of linens, clothes and towels. My goodness.

Since the funeral I have been trying to get back to my new normal. The time before the funeral was tense because they held the funeral later than expected and I tend to build up anxiety until it is over. And trying to clear things before my sister left also took time and energy.

Book club outfit...

I am vain...but my smile is beautiful!

Had book club meeting and we had a great meeting and even had an impromptu Dreamgirls movie night. Oh, and everyone enjoyed the book.

Sequestration. I can’t with the government right now. Although folks may not see the pain instantly, some will. My cousin, who works for the BOP, received her furlough letter a week before the deadline. This means I still will not get a cost of living or merit raise. Did I mention we haven’t had any of these since 2008? Did I mention the legislature has calculated some government workers pay has been cut by 1/3rd? I tell folks my check is less than it was 5 years ago.

My vision board has reaped me some wonderful blessings. I continue to review and know all that is on it will come to past when God deems it time. So I am working on my patience.

I need to lose weight. It is becoming a struggle again because they keep changing my blood pressure medicine. Yes, I am on a new one. This time I was given samples so I could gauge my reactions. One med though I just couldn’t take because my heart and mind were in conflict due to the severe reactions one could have. And the day I was supposed to start it I went to my pharmacist and he told me the effects and what happen with his wife I got scared again. He told me I should at least take the sample and see if I have reaction. No can do. I am too allergic to stuff and when you live alone this is alarming. One of the side-effects is you will become light-headed and will faint. No player. Good thing is the other med, which I didn’t have any qualms about taking is working marvelously. I purchased a new BP monitor, which had great reviews and I am ranging from 113/70 to no more 125/70. A couple times I took it right after eating and it was higher, and when I read not to do that I understood why. So hopefully, this works. Next up is to find a new doctor.

I am making smoothies to eat as snacks with spinach, carrots, apples, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, pineapples and green tea. Yummy!

Smoothie central...

I am still exercising at work 4 to 5 days a week. I am back on my Wii in the evenings so I can sleep at night. Insomnia is kicking my but.

You know the time changes this weekend right? I am already over it.

My hair is too long. I am over it. It needs to be cut before the summer. When I was at the hospital trying to retrieve my stepfather’s belongings I looked on the floor as we were walking out and I saw a lock on the floor. Yeah, I pulled it out of my head when I was adjusting my purse. My hair stays in a bun now. Ugh!

The weather here has been down to 28 degrees this week with a high of 72 today. I am over it.

My sister's husband gave the girls balloons...Question how were they supposed to take them on the plane.  Question:  Why are they still in my living room? I hate popping balloons

I hugged my sister’s husband. You all need to be clapping, we have come a long way, baby.

Seriously, why was my stomach out? My mom, stepfather, sister and me.

My brother tagged me in an old family picture, which was also used in the funeral program for my stepfather. Well, last Friday I looked at the picture again and I noticed my arms were folded, which is a good indicator I am mad about something. When I blew the picture up I was immediately devastated. OMG! My stomach is out. They have posted on FB a half naked picture of me. And to add insult to injury this picture was on the program in a church. I am already going to have to explain things at the Pearly Gates, this just adds to the list. My sister didn’t believe me when I said they were posting child prone, then when she looked at it closer she stated laughing. Hysterically. Why? I didn’t want my stomach out that is why my arms were folded. Dang! My sister calmed down enough to ask did I have an outtie belly button. I don’t now, was my response. SMH!

Seriously, I do not know what to do with myself without Scandal on Thursday night. It doesn’t return until the 21st. Ugh!

JR Ewing is dead. I can’t watch the entire episode. Larry Hagman’s death was hard enough, but to do it twice. I just can’t. (I may need to get some therapy).

My washing machine stop spinning and draining the day my stepfather died and when I say I had a massive meltdown that would be an understatement. But I got it fixed on that Saturday. I was so thankful.

Did I mention my fluorescent lights in the kitchen also went out that Thursday and I had a meltdown that would be an understatement. I was able to get two new bulbs for less than $3 dollars and changed them by myself. I felt like Superwoman.

With all the family staying with me made me realize a few things. I am really particular about how things are in my home. I cussed everyone out in my house the 2nd time I came home from work and the screen door was locked and I had to ring my doorbell to get in. I did. I turned all my lights back on when they turned them off, especially my stadium lighting outside for the thieves. I didn’t realize I had certain bowls or utensils but they found them. I like the bathtub washed out after every use. Every use. I don’t like greasy food. Triple Ginger cookies are loved by more than Lala. Hunny Bunny got in trouble and I babied her up, I must be getting old. Then I told her to go wipe her face because Aunt Nana doesn’t like liquids coming out of edifices on one’s body, because it is nasty. My brother and my sister’s best friend just shook their heads. I am too old for too much change. And my life was disrupted for a full week. But I wouldn’t change it for anything. Family is everything!

The siblings together after 18 years under one roof.

Enjoy your weekend. I promise to come back with less rambling and more concrete blogs soon.

Funeral look...

Just because Carson is wearing his clubbing outfit I got him for Christmas.  Too Cute!

Lala looking like she is 2 instead of 1 years old.  Seriously?

Post New Year's Randoms

So how is your New Year’s going? Mine is going pretty good. I am taking a new approach to this year by trying to stay positive and not dwell on the negative. And believe me it easier said than done. So much has happened in the last couple of weeks so I am going to randomly run through them. You may want to get yourself a cup of coffee or a glass of wine depending on when you are reading this because this is a long one…


My last significant post was on December 21st. Let’s see Christmas was on its way. I got to enjoy a very relaxing Christmas Eve on my couch in my pj’s all day. I also enjoyed some Cupcake Red Velvet wine as I finally was still enough to watch Think Like a Man. It was surprisingly pretty good. I laughed and I thought the way they worked the story from the non-fiction book was pretty decent. Of course, in my mind I wanted them to delve a bit more into the backgrounds of the women and men, but I am no screenwriter.

Christmas Day I woke up to rain. I was like it rained last year on Christmas, but this year it wasn’t so bad that I got drenched while packing up my food to take to my cousins. So, I was okay with it.

Christmas at my cousin’s was real nice and quiet. I mean there were about 20 folks there, but everything was low-key, which I like. The food was good and spending time with family is priceless. I did get to see Carson, but my clubbing partner was not having me holding and touching him. In fact I didn’t even try. Plus, my goodness he walks so damn fast I wasn’t going to be able to keep up with him anyway.

These are my 2nd cousins, their moms are my 1st cousins

Carson and his gift from me.  A clubbing outfit...

The only thing about Christmas being on a Tuesday is most folks have to go to work on Wednesday, and I was one of them. So most of Christmas I was preoccupied with getting back home at a reasonable time and trying to beat the impending storm.

Yes, we had tornado warnings and watches and by 6 pm, I was like I better start heading home so as not to get caught in the storm.

The only problem was I was storming on the inside. You see I got my brand new Samsung Galaxy 3, but as we were talking around the Christmas tree, I saw a warning sign on my phone stating I had gone over my text messaging by 120 messages. First of all, I have unlimited everything. And when I realized the folks at my provider T-mo, were enjoying Christmas, I knew my Christmas was over and I needed to get home. But first, I turned my phone off because damn lie if someone is going to text me and cause me unnecessary charges. I live on a budget. Shit. Yeah, I was mad.

The next morning, because you know I didn’t sleep I was on the phone with T-mo at 5:00 am. It took 50 minutes to get the mess straightened out. Seemingly, when I called to activate my phone on the 18th, the service rep offered me a new data plan that would only cost me a penny. I told her several times I did not want my services changed meaning I was okay with the plan as long as I kept my unlimited phone, text and data and my bill never went over $100. She was so sure that everything would be intact. Even before we hung up I asked her if I still had my unlimited everything and she said yes. Byotch was wrong. My plan was an old plan that they do not offer anymore and I had been grandfathered into. So, Rachael made the mistake and saying to me that her supervisor said I need to be careful changing my plans. I saw stars, stripes and had to count to 10, and then I proceeded to tell Rachel to be careful stating something so stupid. Why would I give up my unlimited messaging when I text all the damn time? She apologized quickly after I stated I have been with them for 15 years. That is loyalty. Anyway, she fixed the situation but those 50 minutes were quite tense. They gave me back my old plan and then I had to talk with the folks with the loyalty program because my January bill was supposed to be free and I would only pay taxes. Joshua was all about business, he knew when I accepted the offer and he took care of that and took off the upgrade fee that T-mo charges now. I swear the cell phone companies are trying to rip folks off. Let’s not mention I got a data alert on my phone today and had to cuss them out again. They fixed it, but this is the shyte that makes folks lose their minds. Also, my next month’s bill is credited except for taxes. Loyalty. And thank God!

Enough of that talk, that is negative and I ain’t trying to hear that. I worked the three days of that week and baby, my desk was clean. You hear me Clean! I worked on my 2nd job as well. I managed to get my tree down and things in storage room all on Saturday. And then I cleaned my house so you know I wouldn’t bring the New Year in with a nasty house. I am old fashion. What of it?

I took New Year’s Eve off from work and I used that day to make a giant pot of soup and watch mindless television. And drink wine. However, I also got some pretty disturbing news. One of the attorneys in my office son was murdered that morning. You read about this type thing happening but this was the first time it hit close to home. Our legal unit is small, but we are like a small family. His loss was our loss and we hurt for him. And the murder was senseless. RIP Jay.

I know you are dying to know what I did for New Year’s Eve night. Tell me you want to know. Ok, you don’t care, but I did nothing. Absolutely, nothing. I watched a movie and by the time it ended I was sleepy and I was in bed at 11 and when midnight came I was sleep. My cousin woke me up wishing my Happy New Year’s. The neighbors didn’t shoot guns much, because the police were out in force due to the murder earlier (suspect was on the run). So…I have come to the understanding I am old. I was where I wanted to be and before I went to bed, I had a heart-to-heart with God and prayed like my life depended on it, which it did. Happy New Year’s!

New Year’s Day, I slept in and then watched hours upon hours of Law & Order: SVU. Yeah, I am dry. LOL!

I woke up January 2nd ready for a great day. When I went out to my car to warm it up, it did a clicka, clicka. (My sound effect is wonderful.) I knew it was my battery. I called my cousin and he got out of his bed and we jumped my car off and I went and got a battery all this took about 20 minutes. My normal way of dealing with setbacks is to cry or get really angry. I did neither. New Year, new ways.

My vision board...

I even did my vision board for 2013. I did it New Year’s Eve. And I spend time reviewing what my goals are for the year every day. 2013 means I will do better to be better and I mean it. Do you ever just wake up and realize how truly blessed you are? I had some things to come up during the holidays that pushed me into a dark place, but I was strong in my belief things will be better. I know this.

Speaking of things, please make it your business not to be a victim of Identity theft. It is the gift that keeps on giving. The thieves managed to take my credit scores down. Now I have one more thing to clean up from this mess, pure turmoil. Don’t be a victim to this if you can help it.

My sister enjoyed her cookies she didn’t know she was getting until they arrived. I had been bitching about the cost of mailing some to my brother that she was totally thrown off by the fact, even when I asked if her box had arrived. When she was feeling better, because she was sick right before Christmas, she ran downstairs to grab up the box, because that is when she realized there had to be cookies in there. Bless her heart. However, you know who loved the Triple Ginger Cookies the most? Lala. My sister said she moaning after every bite in which she switched hands holding the cookie after every bite. Bless her heart. I am still waiting on their Christmas pictures.

Lala and her Triple Ginger Cookie...

Me and The Guy are still together, but he has been sick since right before Christmas. Like he had to have tests done and everything and he still has to have more tests done to figure what the hell is going on. Ya’ll pray for him because I am getting antsy. Geez!

Are people sick at your jobs? OMG! These folks are coming in here sick as dogs. I am around here washing my hand and standing in doorways because they really need to Lysol their offices. And the flu is epidemic now? Everyone should get a flu shot right? Well, I am allergic to eggs and I can’t get one, so what is a woman to do? Wash my hands, sanitize and stay the hell away from all these sick folks. I try not to ride the elevator with anyone. Seriously.

Scandal. That is all that needs to be said. OMG! Last night’s episode was amazing. I was screaming, rolling my neck, crying and jubilant. One should not have that many emotions happening in one episode of any show. Seriously, Shonda Rhimes, is a beast and her writers are amazing. However, I am going to need someone to tell me their secret into winding down in a reasonable amount of time so I can go to sleep. I do have to be at work the next day.

Why are there more reality shows coming on television? T. L. C should be ashamed of themselves. Best Funerals Ever, really? It is too much. I think the only reality show I watch is Catfish now. I can’t with the foolery. Except I will watch 1 minute or two of Honey Boo Boo. Don’t judge me!

Trinidad James. Jerome in the house…I keep saying that about that man and my goodness his mouth. He needs to put the mic down and get to a good dentist, stat!

Shawty Lo? No.

Deception…going to take me a few more episodes to see if I am going to like it and as long as they keep it on Monday there may be a problem. Because ya’ll know Dallas will be back on January 28th, so Deception may not see me anymore, because I love me some Dallas. RIP Larry Hagman.

I baked a pound cake recipe and review coming soon.

Coming up soon in Creative Cooking...

I am in a good place right now in my life and although this is only the beginning of the year, I know there are big things on the horizon for me if I just keep the faith. I am truly grateful. I may not have all I want; I do have all I need. How is the New Year treating you so far?

Christmas hair.  I think it is time to wash it now, any takers?  I didn't think so...

Rambling My Way Through the Christmas Holidays...

Wow, it has been a minute since I posted. Kinda hard to miss me considering all that has been going on in this world we live in. I purposely decided to post this on December 21st, since folks were thinking it was doomsday. I don’t know about you, but I believe only God knows when this world will end.


This week has been busy, but not busy. Does that make sense? I have a very clean desk because only about 3 or 4 of us are working in my unit this week. So I have been crazy productive. And my desk proves it.

It is hard to believe Christmas is next week. I worked like a fiend to get ready for our annual holiday meeting in December and once it is over, I finally get to relax only for Christmas to be knocking on my door. Since I didn’t buy a lot of gifts, I baked and did homemade gifts I feel kinda like superwoman or something.

So since I am really rambling my way through this posts here are some pictures of my Christmas decorations:    

My Hear No, Speak No, See No Evil Angels

Another ornament

Hair Puffs Angel Topper

More decorations

Dining table decorations

Livingroom decoration (excuse the bags on the couch)

Kwanzaa Centerpiece in my den

  So on Thursday, December 13th, I did some marathon cookie baking.  Yes, I got off work at 5 and went home and baked cookies until after midnight (I was off Friday).  I made sure that at least during Scandal I was only putting and taking pans out of the oven during the commercial breaks.

The cookies for my 2nd job kids.  Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Chip Toffee Nut, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Raisins, Triple Ginger Cookies... Also, sent some to my brother as well.



Fed. Ex almost got me because I had been waiting on my beeswax to be delivered and you know when I got them?  When I was getting in my car to go to my 2nd job on Friday.  But I made the candles.  They turned out alright.  Had quite a few to crack and I did re-melt but it didn't keep it from cracking again.  However, the Ginger lime fragrance and the fact I actually made them made me pat myself on my back.  I am so glad I did this project.  And since I have a pound and 1/2 of beeswax...I have so more candle making to do...

 

One pound of the wax and my Ginger Lime fragrance and my free bottle of Plumeria fragrance.

Ready for the oven.

Up Close

Melted...

The finished product...

Wrapped and ready.  Smells wonderful.  And my book club members loved them.

My meeting went well.  I was well organized so I was able to enjoy a glass of wine before my members arrived.  My spread was amazing as well...

The spread with menu cards.  Looks good doesn't it?

Dessert table w/treat bags to take cookies home.

Mini Salted Caramel Apples pies...No Lattice work cookie cutter flowers.  LOL!

A little blurry by the end of the night, because I killed the entire bottle of the Cupcake Red Velvet wine...

 

What was on the menu you asked?  Chicken and Ham Salad finger sandwiches, Buffalo wings, Jerk wings, Crispy Asian Orange wings, Honey BBQ wings, Sweet and Spicy meatballs, Veggie stuffed mushrooms, Savory stuffed meatballs, Bottom of the Lake Dip, Asian Salad, Broccoli Crunch salad, Fruit tray and Veggie tray.  With cookies and the pies... Overachiever.  That would be me.

 

So my past weekend was busy, but satisfying.  Then Monday came and I had to mail packages.  I went to three different post offices looking for a box that I found I could only purchase online.  Ugh!  However, I mailed my packages.  I also tried to purchase my Kwanzaa stamps but didn't have any at the final post office.  So I ordered them online and it said it takes one to two days to get them.  As of right now.  I do not have my stamps.  I have addressed Christmas cards, but no damn stamps.  I quit the post office.

 

This weekend I work all weekend.  Some where in between working and running errands, I have to wrap The Guy's gift and see him to exchange gifts.  My life.  I also have to cook my dishes for Tuesday, but I have all day Monday to ponder those things as I relax in pjs and drink wine.  Looking forward to the brief time to relax, because I will be at work on Wednesday.

 

Guess who is here? 

 

 

Carson, baby!

 

Carson's school picture.  Look at those muscles.  I thought he was ready for the club because his shirt was showing off his muscles, but I looked closely at his shirt and realized the monkey picture would not do.

Lala cheesing hard after giving folks whatever crude she had.  Now she is feeling real good and everyone else is side-eyeing her.

I hope you and your families have a blessed Christmas and I see you next week!  And continue to pray for Sandy Hook Elementary.

P. S. I have my Samsung Galaxy 3...for much less than my provider was offering.  It is a good idea to read forums.