Random Thunderstorms... (The Celebratory Booty Dance)

It's been a long time....the writer is me is active but it takes so much to sit down in front of a computer or (heaven forbid) a pen and paper to get my thoughts out. I must get better at it. Writing and dancing serve as my therapy. No wonder I've been "under the weather lately."


My mom came for a visit and it was quite entertaining to have my aunts, uncles and cousins under one roof again. I have not laughed that hard in a very long time. I shake my head at the crazy foolishness that goes on but thank God for the great memories.


I have a new cousin. She was born on July 9th and she is spoiled already. She likes to lay on your legs to sleep. Move her and she doesn't wake up, she just shifts around, gets comfy, throws her arms out and begins to snore. Newborns are so sweet. When do we lose that ability to adapt?


My performance group is going to VEGAS! Four days of fun, dance and who knows what else. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. I can not wait. Another item on my bucket list will be checked. Yep, I am doing this:




Side note: my hair is hating this weather! It is currently pulled up and back in what the Superintendent complimented as a "pretty regal hair style." O_0


Call me cheap but I determined to get to the 200K mile mark with my car. It had 12 miles when I bought it and has a wicked oil leak. I fixed some stuff and took it Wally World for tires. That experience was dreadful! NEVER again. And they had the nerve to give me a customer survey. I am the type of person who fills out surveys and I did go onlline and complete a complaint and cited everyone involved. I suggested they use a different system to select their management and possibly a customer service training program? Yeah, I said it. Yes I did!

Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings from  
                                   


   

Random Thunderstorms...(I, I and I)

It must be the season change because I find myself in a slump. I am wondering how I allowed myself to get in this mundane life with very little things I enjoy? Just typing that made me take a DEEP breath. I...will....change...my...direction....


I have no luck with jobs. Maybe it's my resume, maybe it's my name? All I know is that I get no responses when looking and submitting for jobs. THAT is frustrating as hell! (And NO, I have zero interest in going back to school and acquiring more student loans)


I was embarrassed for the MC who mispronounced Me'Shell N'Degeocello's name numerous times at the jazz festival. I cracked up when she came back to the mic to say it correctly. Come on! The event coordinator should have given him a phonetics cheat sheet. He should have cared enough to make sure it was correct before he embarrassed himself on stage...more than once! And by the way, you must have a WORKING sound system when you have a festival!!! (just sayin')

Word of the day in that last statement is "SHOULD"


My cousin is adopting a baby this summer. Now (of course) everyone is looking my way. Um, do any of you have day care money? Formula money? Pamper money? NO?!?! I thought not!


I borrowed a pressure-washer from my co-worker and it just reiterated to me that I could really be the more colorful version of the lady on the Rehab Addict show. I need a stash of power tools. Let me get my wish list together.


I have not been in the mood to write lately. I have forced out this bit so let me be quiet while I'm ahead. What's going on with you blog fam?

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Totally Random)

I love DIY and decorating shows. I could see myself being the black rehab lady on this show. I've been making a list of things to do around my house and prioritizing the order. I am determined to make my personal space my own.

In 2008, I put myself on a strict budget and was determined to come out of the hole left by the marriage  in 5 years. I am proud to say I have paid off ALL credit card debt slightly ahead of schedule! That right there....THAT right there?!? (Yeah, I'm using my best K.att W.illiams voice)

Rest assured after getting into something of a financial bind, KayC will not ever do that again. Married, cohabitation,  parent or otherwise. I have learned to say "No" and mean it. 

I have found the dance floor again and it is lovely. Teaching is okay (I am available for private lessons if you live near me, LOL!) but I adore social dancing. It speaks to my soul. Music and dance have a love affair that should never end.

My other love affair is film/TV. This trailer makes me remember why I love film. In high school and college I wanted to make movie trailers. This one is baddazz:

Woohoo to the local dealership for discounts on repairs! My 13 year old car is still trying to make it and I am determined to nurse it for another year. Yay for over $100 in savings! It could always be worse, right? Yeah, as soon as I paid off the credit cards :(

My furbaby is almost 11 years old. Which means he is like an 80 year old human.He has lived with me since he was 9 months old. He has been with me through separation, living with friends and family, divorce, apartments and now my own home. I am trying to get my head around not having him one day. That is not easy but I hear him whine and his joints crack when he lies down. He even hesitates to climb the stairs at times.

Sigh, I know what's coming.

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms....(Once Again)

I have decided (once again) that I will give only solicited advice and try my best (once again) to not get offended, become upset or get annoyed when the person asked for said advice does not follow it. I have lost count on the number of times I have listened to the same conversation from friends who are in the same situation but refuse to do anything different. What is the definition of insanity again?

I applied for the job. The one I mentioned before which was a lateral move in pay but demotion in benefits. Why? to challenge myself and broaden my skill set. I made up my mind that the new position would make it much easier in the future to make more money and find another job (if need be) while increasing my quality of life. What happened? I interviewed well with the HR Director and staff only to find out the position is no longer available. The lady who currently holds it can not retire right now due to changes in policy and I (once again) was the front-runner by far but (once again) am still in my current position. I am stuck (once again) working evenings, weekends and holidays at will!

I don't know if it was being so close to having a new job or the current position itself but KayC is in a funk. I could easily call out each day this week and stay home and do absolutely nothing. I have some time during the Thanksgiving holiday but (once again) I find myself in a budgeting crunch and refusing to over spend. 

On a more positive note....I have 2 credit cards left with balances and I see the light at the end of the tunnel with finally ridding myself of the marital debt I inherited through the divorce. I will be so elated to pay off the final card and will not ever get into more credit card debt. If you want a life with me, all bank statements, credit reports and background checks must be presented! You think that's wrong? Then cohabitate forever but once you enter into a legally binding contract (which is what a marriage license is, after all you do file it at the court house people!) all of your debt becomes OUR debt. Been there, done that and I will NOT do that once again!

Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Living vs Existing)

I know I have been MIA from blogland and so have my blog peeps from the look of my blog feed and the links to the right of the screen. Life stops for no one, least of all me. So, let's get random...


I can not remember the last time I have been in a relationship that lasted this long. Things are...growing. Bumps in the road are inevitable but I find myself being the person who guides and patiently waits for the light bulb moment. I like the ability to broaden a person's horizons but I remember that 'even a Counselor needs a Counselor sometimes.'


I still dance on occasion but it nothing like I used to. I have danced less than 10 times all year and that includes performances. What is wrong with me? Drama has taken my safe haven, my hardwood therapy and it makes it difficult for me to enjoy it anymore. Fortunately the drama was not a result of anything I've done or a reaction of any of my actions but still the backlash has ended up directly effecting me. Funny how people can do dirt, get mad when they get caught and then project it onto you like you are in the wrong. It...simply...amazes...me. Just when I thought people could not surprise me anymore, they show me how low mankind can stoop and still think they are fabulous creatures and the best thing to bless man since sliced bread.


One of my friends used me to get ahead at work. I am happy she got the raise and change in job title. What I am not thrilled about it how every day she was in my office complaining, asking for advice when I had to hear through the grapevine that she received her new position after I didn't see her for over a week. Then she acted ungrateful with the new three level higher pay grade. Some people are never happy. I knew she was a user, which is why I stopped hanging with her outside of work hours. One of these days I will learn to stop allowing people to use me.



Ah yes, drama is all around me. I guess that means I am doing something right? Who knows....what's going on with you blog peeps?

Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Somber and Dreary)

It is a somber day at work today. One of my co-workers died and his services will take place today. Watching the mass exidos out the building with people dressed in black to attend. I can't go. I would like to remember him how he is my mind now, not in a casket. The world has lost a good man and they are not easy to find in today's society.


I picked up every piece of trash in the road yesterday. A plastic bag stuck to the car on my way to work and a long piece of plastic wrap wrapped around my car on the interstate on the way home. I could not see a thing and the emergency lane was full of blown tire bits. Thank God for keeping me calm and the people around me from running me off the road.


I am debating on facing a demon this evening but I am not sure I have the strength or ability to keep a level-head to do it yet. So I might avoid it. It will happen eventually. I can not avoid it forever although I wish I could.


As you can see it has been a very emotional week. I am stronger now but sometimes...I just need a break.

Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Figure It Out)

Sometimes, I really wonder what this thing called LIFE is really about. What is the lesson we should learn from all this?


It feels really good to cross off something from your bucket list. After I crossed off getting my photo taken in front of the San Francisco bridge I looked at my list for the next reasonable thing to cross off the list. I am not sure what my next adventure will be but it felt good to make my list shorter.


Someone posted on the social sites "the first African-American to win a supporting acting role was Haddie McDaniel for playing a Mammie. Last night Octavia Butler won for playing the same role." Interesting how we assign race, class and culture to everything. Is it too much to simply appreciate an African-American woman who demonstrated superior acting skills in a period piece? I'm not taking sides, simply suggesting another view.


At the biggest Cuban Salsa festival in the world I only danced a few times. I adore dancing more than many things in my life. Maybe I need a break? Maybe I need a muse? Whatever it is, right now my hunger and thirst for dance is low.



I watched this clip on youtube and was excited to find this guy in San Fran. I had one helluva dance with him. My group had not performed yet and he did not know I could dance. He held back until he figured out I could hold my own and then...well....THAT man has moves....




Yes, I said 'found him' and asked HIM to dance! I had to get him early before his line formed, LOL! Sometimes a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!



I am overdue for a trip home. My baby sister is graduating this year. I will try my best to make it to her graduation. My father did not make either of my graduations but I want to be there to see her and my baby brother graduate.



One my fellas asked me if everything was okay after he saw my chat status. I told him everything was okay, just dealing with some things I thought I conquered from the past marriage. He then asked "you still dealing with that stuff?" After I took a breath I had to assure him that after a decade of being with someone, YES, you can still deal with some 'issues' 3 years later. I then had to realize his longest relationship was about a year. Perspective is everything...sometimes.



I am bored. I have stopped writing, journaling, blogging, dancing, etc. Every so often I get into my funks and I have to find my way out. While I have no desire to dance I crave the dance floor. My creative side feels stagnant. Maybe I should take a class? A crochet class, maybe? A jewelery class? Maybe I need to dig through my jewelry fixings and make something beautiful?



I...just...need...something...creative.

Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Wooosaaaaaa)

I have a friend who makes me want to shake her. She's beautiful, has a great job and a great home with a cute daughter. Why do I want to shake her? Because she is a dating a man who she allows to treat her poorly even though there are tons of men (of all sizes, shapes and wallet depths) lined up to take her out. Yet she finds faults in all of them to continue on a self-destructive path with a ninja turtle! Woooosaaa!


Waking up with a slight layer of cold sweat all over, overheating and forgetting things?!? This is not fun...I denounce you in the name of the Lord! I am way too young for this...WOOOSAAAA!


I tried to do the Life Class everyone is raving about but that certain ex-talk show host wrecks my nerve with the 'holier than thou' way she talks sometimes. Yeah, I may not finish this....Wooosaaaa!

I walked into a store the other day and saw Halloween Candy next to Thanksgiving decorations right next to the Christmas decorations...all on one aisle. REALLY?!? Are they not worthy of their own space in their own time? Have we really become that lazy of a society that we can not wrap our brains around the changing of time and the respective holidays in their own time? I would not be surprised to see Valentine's day candy in December now...Woooosaaaa!

I paid 3.15 to fill up my tank last week, this week it is 3.39. Not one person has mentioned this is those republican primary election debates. You want to to talk jobs, how about starting with gas and food prices?!?! Woooosaaa!

Everyone wants to talk about giving relief to people who have interest only loans and can't afford to pay their mortgages. How about we do this...those people would be okay if they purchased something they could afford. Bail out someone who is bad with money and make bad choices and 2 years from now do you know what you have? The SAME people making bad choices with their money. How about you give the people who can make their mortgage payments a break? Drop their interest rate first, they obviously are good with their money and can make good choices with the money they have. How is it that you help people who can't manage money before you help those who have proven they can handle it? You want to pump money into the economy? HELP THOSE WHO ARE IN A POSITION TO DO SO!!!!!

You don't need a 4 bedroom house when you only have 1 child and make less than 40k a year. You don't NEED a house that costs 250K when you can only AFFORD TO PAY $700 a month. If you bail out these people we will continue to be in a downward spiral. The people who are legitimately handling their business are getting tired of the hearing they can not receive help until they become the less responsible...Wooooo-m-f-in-saaaa!!!!!

Speaking of politicians...since none of them seem to be able to understand they represent PEOPLE and not their own damn agendas and personal gripes, vote against every one that is currently in office. Holding a political office should not be damn career! Why are there senators and congressman who have NEVER held a regular 9 to 5 but have been in DC for over 20 years?!? VOTE OUT EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM who want to hold up progress in finding a resolution to this economic crises. I bet they would understand THAT GESTURE!!!! Ask Cynthia McKinney. You have a voice, make it count in November!!!!!!!!

No, there is no woosaa after that last statement. Something needs to change and every single one of us has an option to make it so. Bet I ruffled a few feathers on this post. You mad? Speak your peace in the comments section....

*KayC takes a deep bow, drops the mic and exists stage left rubbing her temples and shaking her head*

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Finding ME Time)

I am still a little M.I.A. in blogland. There are a few things I would like to blog about but whenever I get a few moments I just want to relax. Somehow there are not enough hours in the day. Between my 9 to 5, performance group, events company and trying to have a personal life, my body is rebelling and making me slow down.

When my body screams "No mas!" my guilty pleasure is a good beer or glass of wine while watching reality TV. I do not watch many of them but I caught this episode of So You Think You Can Dance. I am not a huge fan of Sasha. Her technique is not as polished as a few of the others but she truly dances from the heart.

This choreography was great and I am a huge fan of Me'Shell. It definitely deserved to be mentioned here:





Speaking of television and some interesting things that grace the screen, I recently saw this commercial. It took me watching it a few times before I realized what they were referencing. My reaction was REALLY?!? It is a very clever way of putting it out there but who in their right mind thought this was an appropriate commercial?

Now I know why it only runs sporatically. What do you think?





Ending on a happy note, I have a new niece who joined the family in June. She is healthy, happy and growing fast. I am looking forward to meeting her and seeing my oldest niece again. Two girls and a lot of hair to be combed by my Sis!



Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Week at Home)

One of the very few perks I have with my job is the time off. We are closed when people usually request time off so at the end of the physical year I have time to burn. I like to take a week after things have died down and just use it for myself. No traveling, no visiting family or friends, just time for me to do whatever I want to do.

I used the week to stay at home, relax and turn off my damn alarm!

I spent three days with myself. Me and the furry one stayed home, kept each other company and enjoyed being lazy. At least I did, he does that on the regular!

I danced four nights straight. I missed Salsa and my partners. It was so good to be on the dance floor again even if the NBA finals made for some interesting crowds.

I lost half of those pesky pounds that found their way to my waist, hips and thighs. Gotta love that dance floor!

Speaking of losing weight...who goes on vacation and LOSES weight? Once again, I LOVE the dance floor!

I ventured out to a few new dance spots and people did not know me. When you are new, people can be reluctant to dance with you. Thankfully I can lead so I danced with a few women and happily mingled with the crowd. One of the men hugged me and told me he had to bow because I was mean on the dance floor. I could only laugh and say thank you.

I was really flattered when on the way out a lady stopped me and told me she had watched me dance and I was her dance inspiration. ME?!? Someone's dance inspiration? I remember how I felt when I first found my dance inspiration, being someone's dance inspiration is a great honor. I hope I do not disappoint her, LOL!

I happily checked off a few things on my house 'to do' list. My ego got a gut check when I ran across a few old photos from when I first moved in my house. I had just walked away from the marriage and had all the debt with a small income. I left the furniture and all reminders of that life. I had lost sight of how far I had come and only thought of the things I wanted. Those photos reminded me of how I am slowly and surely making my house my home.

I also spent the week making strides to perfect my craft on the event planning side and dance.

That was my week in a nutshell...how was yours?


Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Life in General)

This time of year is usually crazy for me and 2011 is living up to that reputation.

My events company had a wonderful event in April. It is always a good sign when the servers and the owner of the venue have smiles at the end of the night. Even better sign when you call the owner to discuss his thoughts and the second thing after hello is, "Are we still on for...?" Yes, indeed!

I put the final nail in the coffin of the Addiction. He was sending me articles on education. Finally, I questioned his motives and his response of 'nothing, just sending you articles I thought you would be interested in' blew my top. My response? "Thank you for the article. Please do not contact me again." GTFOHWTBS!

I think my first performance group has officially disbanded. That is not a bad thing. Honestly, it was financially draining and time consuming. It introduced me to dance and for that I will be forever grateful but it has run it's course. Everything has a reason or season.

Thinking this may be a transitional period for me. Transition is not a bad thing. I'm learning (as always) and growing as a person while becoming comfortable with my limitations and expectations.

I have a big event on the horizon. I can feel it, touch it and have some great ideas in mind. I should have final partnership approval by the end of the week. God's got this. My events have steadily become better and have literally fallen in my lap. Coincidence? Not at all!!!!

Life, my friends, is good. Enjoy it!

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...Crossroads

I have several random crossroads in my life right now. What better place to discuss a few of them...


I have a friend who is very near and dear to me. She has been seeing a guy who is not comfortable showing signs they are dating in public. They can't arrive anywhere together, show any PDA or leave together. But, he constantly tells her she's the one he wants to be with. It has been over a year now and my friend knows of other women he has also been seeing and she confessed to me they are considering moving in together. Merging children, finances and lives. I had to be a good friend and ask "How can you live with someone who will not claim you in public?" I was floored...but no matter what she chooses, I hope she will be happy. It took so much restraint for me to not yell while she told me. I remember when I was in that situation, being held captive to an Addiction that was not good for me. Life is ironic like that.


Speaking of my Addiction...I am doing pretty well in walking away from him. He called in November and I did not answer, simply sent a 'thank you' text days later. He sent a link to a news story in February concerning my job field. It took me weeks before I read it but never responded to him. Most recently he sent me another link to my FB account. Never an apology, never any written words outside of the subject of the emails. I know he is thinking of me but if he truly wanted to reach out? Try it with words and maybe start with an apology. Nice bait...but I am not biting. Yes, I admit to stumbling but I will not stop walking away.


I recently befriended (or so I thought) a fellow blogger. Enjoyed reading their blog and we ended up having good phone conversation and email exchanges. But after I repeatedly turned them down in the 'relationship' department (and I use that term loosely) things hit the fan. I don't know how many times I have stated here that I do NOT play the role of the other woman but I am serious about that. If you live with someone, if you have an 'understanding' with someone or if you are having relations with someone... I WILL NOT become involved with you deeper than a friendship level! Translation: I will not become physical with you. Do not ask me about my bedroom habits or specifics on my bedroom behavior. Since I asked if I would be removed from the twitter account every time we disagreed I was also removed from the blogroll. It's okay though, lesson learned. Always follow your first instincts. I view my blog as an online journal, I am flattered if you care to read it but I don't use it as a place to meet men. I meet plenty in my daily real-world life.


I am thinking of a career change. Not really a career change but trying to figure out my purpose, my passion and how to leave my mark. Have you seen someone who does something they are passionate about? There is nothing like watching them. I need to find my 'thing' and keep it close. I think I am close to figuring all of this out. If the last few days are any indication, I know I am on the right track because there are some people who are really mad at me. But I have some big ideas and plans on how to bring them into fruition.


I am at a crossroads because I think each interaction rather good or bad is having an effect on me. Each event that takes place in my life is molding me into the person I am destined to become. I may not be who I want to be but thank God I am not the woman I used to be! I had a situation last weekend that I felt I handled pretty well and reinforced to myself that I know when to walk away, when to leave well enough alone and not try to fit in. No one is living my life, this life, my daily life except for me and now I at least know when I have had my fill and where I find my joy. That tells me I am making strides and choosing the right direction at my crossroads.



Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...Shaking My Head

My metropolitan area is way too small. If you take the square root of the educated African-American population, add in the Latino and bi-racial group that identifies, subtract the amount that are married (who are not cheating on their spouses) and add in the few who are divorced - what do you get? A few hundred people who all know each other and who have slept with more than a 'couple' of other people in the group. I say this because one of the women who played the mistress in my prior situation is now playing the role of the other woman in my friend's situation. Shaking my head and thinking it is time to relocate...


I recently had the best weekend and received some wonderful news concerning my '50 Things to Do' list. I may get the opportunity to cross off a few things I never thought would happen. I am simply beside myself...I'm keeping it close to the chest for a little while longer. Shaking my head in amazement...


My event planning company threw our second event in January and the crowd was a little thicker than the first event. We tried a marketing strategy that proved people can not follow directions! Needless to say we will not run another special until our anniversary celebration. Shaking my head at people's sense of entitlement...


My former Addiction sent me an email out of the blue. I think it's an article on education (I work for a school system) but I have not opened it. I have not heard from him or had any contact with him for months. He called to wish me a Happy Birthday in November and I sent him to voice mail. Funny, he crossed my mind the other day when I saw someone who resembled him. Think he felt the vibes? Shaking my head and telling myself to leave sleeping monsters asleep! Shaking my head at him...


I am learning to follow my gut feeling. That feeling in the pit of my stomach my Grandmother called a "sixth sense" of sorts. My events company venture is kind of requiring me to become a DJ. The father I contemplated letting into my life last year was/is a DJ full-time and I contacted him about lessons. Well...that spawned a series of 'hey beautiful' and 'muah' instant messages. Although I think he's a great DJ and the lessons would be beneficial, I decided to cancel them. Obviously, we each had different views on our approach and my gut feeling was telling me it would not go well. Shaking my head at that...and moving right along.


I am taking my first trip of the year very soon. It is a trip to the west coast. A first for me but I am going with my Salsa group to perform at one of the largest Cuban Salsa festivals in the US. I am looking forward to knocking another thing off my 50 Things to Do list and glad I will do it with my Salsa girls! Shaking my head at some of the foolishness I KNOW will go down during that trip.



Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...Cabin Fever!

I was snowed/iced in for five days and it drove me crazy. I was almost willing to brave the icy roads to go see some friends and family. Living alone and being on the other side of the city sucked last week! Ugh!

On a lighter note, I got caught in the snow storm Sunday night having a movie night with friends. People were the nicest I have ever seen them in this city. It gave my nervous drive home of an hour a half some peace.

I have a plan in place to conquer debt and build wealth this year. I have worked on recovering from the bad marriage and have done pretty well. A few major bumps last year put me in a hole but this year I will fully recover.

I refuse to marry or get into a serious relationship with anyone else who has bad credit and can not manager their personal finances. Call it what you want but marriage and life-partnership is also a business contract. I am too old to rebound from another man who can not manage his finances. Ironically, I know a few men who feel the same.

I have a few great vacations planned for this year. I can not wait to keep seeing the world. My cousin may not accompany me on a few but I have gained another traveling companion.

I'm planning my first trip to the west coast and going to visit a friend in Vegas! Excited....what happens in Vegas...

My house received some much needed TLC during the ice storm. I was home so much my fur baby started to ignore me.

I have not hit the dance floor hardwoods at all this year. What is wrong with me?



Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Holiday Edition)

My Thanksgiving week was great. I slept in, went to bed early, played with the furbaby, danced (of course) and caught up with some family and friends. I even started replacing the outlets in my house. I was so proud of myself for that one.


I don't do Black Friday or anything that involves crowds of that magnitude. I'll wait for a few weeks, everyone will be broke and the sales will return.


I'm planning the next dance event. Follow us on FB for a discount to the next one in January.


I called a few bluffs over the Thanksgiving week with a few men. If you're not willing to put in the work please keep moving. Serious inquiries only...


Speaking of 'men' my (former) Addiction called to wish me a Happy Belated Birthday. I sent him to voice mail and he actually left a message. After a few days I sent a text thanking him for the belated birthday wish which he responded hoping I enjoyed my birthday. I chose not to keep the conversation going. I am not cruel or heartless and wanted to acknowledge his call but do not want to fall under his spell again.


I have three performances in the next weeks with my Salsa group. Hopefully I can record at least one of them. Those routines are bad! (in a good way ;)


I came out of my holiday slump this year. I adore the holiday season, starting with my birthday it is one big celebration until New Year's Day. For the past few years I kind of boycotted the holidays. I felt they were 'tainted' after the divorce but this year I cleaned out my storage closet, threw out all of the remnants and smiled to myself as I put up my Christmas decorations. I still LOVE the holiday season, I guess this means I am officially moving on with my life.


I know it's the holiday season when I see my favorite commercials. I LOVE this one:



And of course this one cracks me up. Their marketing people are genius!




Life is good right now. I am happy with the way things are going. My events are showing promise, my performance group has potential to make me a professional dancer and I have a smile on my face.


Hope you are enjoying your holiday season as well!


Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(I Thought)

I thought my family would be traveling to my city for Thanksgiving and Christmas. There was a change of plans. Instead of our traditional large gathering, there will only be four family members together for Thanksgiving. I can't remember the last time that happened.

I thought I would be in a better position in my career at this point. I still have no idea what I want to be when I grow up but I am trying to have fun as I figure it out.

I thought my event would go off without a hitch (the event planner in me should have known better) now thanks to a shady location owner my event may be in jeopardy. A week before it takes place...and this too shall pass. We shall laugh about it later when the event is a rousing success...SIGH. Pray for me and my 'Dream Team' please?

I thought I would take a dating hiatus and be by myself for a while. One of my boys laughed at me and said, "Yeah, we'll see how long that lasts. Men will come out of the woodwork!" He wasn't right about the "woodwork" part but I have said "No,thank you" a lot lately.

I thought I would feel better about being an Aunt. My sister is pregnant again and complaining. I was fed up with the complaining and told her to just be happy and enjoy it. She has no idea how many women would absolutely adore to be in her shoes with her "oops babies" that her and my brother-in-law did not plan. Enjoy it...cause there a lot of women out there who can't do it!!! Then I had to get off the phone and wooooossssaaaahhhh. It's not her fault, I was just pissed at the complaining.

I thought I would not be able to handle it when my former Addiction contacted me. I knew it would happen eventually, people always have to try, right? I looked at his request, let it sit in my inbox and deleted it a day later. *fist pump* I think I am moving on. One step at a time.

I thought I would try something different with the man-magnet tresses. My poor tresses were dry and catching hell from the weather change. I whipped up a batch of whipped shea butter with shea, mango, coconut and a dash of rosemary oil. Put the tresses in small twists and man...that is some good stuff! The tresses are soft and shiny. Even my accomplice on Saturday noticed the "shine and volume." (Was given the side-eye for the volume comment, LOL!)

I thought I had lost a friendship with my cousin. We grew up together but grew apart when my mother moved me to another state. Recently I got word from him through his father, who told my mother to tell me to call him :) It was soooo good to talk, laugh and just hear his voice. He was indeed one of my first brothers (along with his brother) and some things the spirit needs. His voice and laughter definitely lifted my spirit. Small world, he lives a few doors down from my sister. Guess where I will be on my next visit?

Enough of my ranting...I have a huge stack of things to do this week before my vacation week.


Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Really?)

All of your emails can not be urgent. If they are, maybe you should REALLY reconsider your definition of urgent?

I have gone through some emotional and spiritual healing. Some people did not make the cut. Such is life, really.

No raises, again for the third year and furloughs on top of that? Really? At least it is only one furlough day this year.

I REALLY thought I was ready for love to enter my life again and it seems I have met the last men in my city that want to 'take things slow and get to know me' and I am speechless. Enjoying every minute of it but...speechless.

I am really trying to get my fears under control. One step at a time, one day at a time. Fear is really a powerful motivator.

I went skating for the first time since 4th grade. Yeah, you read that right, the 4th grade. My accomplice skates every Sunday and let's just say KayC provided the entertainment and busted my ass! My accomplice? Skated over, helped me up, made sure I was ok before cracking up and telling me to keep going. Yeah...it was a funny night. Watching my accomplice skate was poetry in motion...REALLY!!!!

In speaking with a few male friends over the past few years I now realize that men and women face the same issues with dating and relationships. Men meet fake women and women meet fake men. Why is that 'real' men and 'real' women can not seem to meet each other? Especially before the 'fake' ones get to them and mess them up? REALLY?!?!?! Food for thought...it is a vicious cycle.

I finally realized men and women are not different. We all want the same thing (at least most of us) and that is to be treated well, with respect and care. Although there is a minority that is out there blazing trails reminiscent of General Sherman's march to the sea. Take your time, follow your gut and you can better tell the difference between the two.

Working in event planning/marketing/communications feels like banging my head against a brick wall sometimes. You give people a response to their requests and they want the opposite. Sigh....REALLY such a waste of my time.

When my divorce was final, the only thing I took was my name back. It REALLY irks me when people refer to me with the old name. Especially since he is married and there is another 'Mrs' now. Can you please get it right people? Geesh!

I'm really trying to stay positive and I realized this Random Thunderstorm is a vent....REALLY!!! LMAO ;-)

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...Truly Random

Just a few random things going through my head...

Would you rather love someone more or have them love you more? Truthfully speaking, someone is always in a relationship deeper than the other person.

I am looking forward to dancing with my Salsa performance group. Those ladies work it on the dance floor! I am honored to have been asked to join them. My first dance performance is coming soon. Dame mas baila!!!!

The summer is over. My free Fridays went way too fast.

Traveling is now in my blood and I can not wait for my next 'sistergirl trip' - Vegas, Western Caribbean or Bermuda?

I have a business venture up my sleeve that combines the hobbies that I love. I've sat on this idea for a while and think it is time to put my plan in motion. My giddiness is contagious :)

Months have passed since I visited my siblings and my niece, time to head south. I wonder if Ellie is getting old enough to remember me?

Thinking about another "Scorpio Celebration" this year but have no idea where I would host it.

I was told I'm Awesome with a capitol A! Now if only the man who told me that was actually available and did not have a girlfriend. The role of "The Other Woman" will not be played by KayC.

I have kicked my Addiction and although it was not easy on my head or my heart, it was the right thing to do for me, my love life and my future.

I helped my first Salsa Instructor teach ladies footwork. (I still had hard time saying "thank you" when they said I was a great dancer) Enjoyed teaching though.

In this recession how do people afford to eat out and buy new cars? I've nixed EVERYTHING off my extra-curricular list.

Misery loves company. Yes, I stopped giving advice because you did not listen and now you want to talk. KayC is not available right now, please refer to notes from our previous conversations. Trust me, the topic has NOT changed!

When did rompers come back in style? With stilettos? That you can NOT walk in? (know I offended a few folks there, let's move on)

I could care less about LeBron, Kobe or Tiger. None of them are putting food on my table or making my bed shake. Once again, moving right along...

I have been dealing with a few 'issues' right now. Trying my best to let them go, they will all work out in due time.

The more Spanish I learn, the more French I forget. Ma française est très rouillé maintenant.

I am in need of a good read, someone make a suggestion.

My furbaby needs friends to play with. Dogs are pack animals and he needs a pack. Toying with the idea of getting a puppy when the finances level out.

My boys celebrated their birthdays this month. HAPPY BIRTHDAY fellas! Love you like play cousins! I hate missing the festivities, this is the LAST year they celebrate without me.

I've been introduced to Frangelico, If you ever want to send KayC something a bottle will do nicely and yeah, Goose would be a nice substitute.

Was out dancing and hit the floor with a friend who is a salsa instructor. This lady walked up and started mumbling in Spanish. My friend (a black guy with long locks) said he never gets mistaken for Cuban, that was a first. I laughed and said it was me, it happens to me all the time!

What's with the heat? I am a Southern girl but dang! I must keep living right, If I can't handle the summer I sure can't handle Hell!!!

I am in love...with ME! The position of my love interest has been filled by moi and I am not hiring or accepting applications for team tryouts. No, I am not sure when tryouts will be held for the team. Check the web site for future openings.

I danced at a new venue (new to me anyway) and I met some wonderful people and danced with a few of my favorite partners. LOVE you all...they are my Salsa family. They put a smile on my face and make me forget the world. As long as there is Salsa, Merengue or Bachata playing, they rock my world!!! (Cue, MJ song ;)

Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Nothing Like It)

There is nothing like looking into the eyes of someone who sees you, gets you and still wants to spend time with you.

The first day the temperature goes above 65 degrees and the sun is shining after a cold winter. There is nothing like that first long walk.

There is nothing like seeing a photo of you knowing you were having a great time and had no clue someone snapped a photo of you.

There is nothing like the first compliment, the first hug or the first kiss of someone you really want to stick around for a while.

There is nothing like that I can't breathe laugh with a group of great friends.

There is nothing in the world like being undressed by someone who knows how to do it.

There is nothing like good memories of a loved one you've lost after the pain is gone.

There is nothing listening to that song on the radio and smiling at the flood of memories that come with it.

There is nothing like knowing it did not work and it was not your fault.

There is nothing like the peace you feel when you wake up in the morning with the sun shining, the birds singing and joy in your heart.

There is nothing like a rainy day, being curled up in the corner of my sofa with a good book and a great cup of something hot.

There is nothing like knowing I have accomplished so much more than the generation before me and knowing my niece will accomplish so much more than I ever could.

There is NOTHING like that feeling...



Until Next Time,
Peace & Blessings...

Random Thunderstorms...(Great Cinematic Moments)

Fellow blogger Don issued a friendly challenge for me to list my all time favorite unforgettable on screen moments. I absolutely love movies, everything about them from the opening sequence to the choice of how the credits roll. These are my all-time favorite moments...(this was not an easy list to compile) in no particular order:


Gone With The Wind...Scarlett O'Hara asking Rhett Butler to stay with her after years of being selfish and she asks "Where will I go? What will I do?" Rhett looks at her while standing in the open doorway and says "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn." and walks out. Classic cinema. It doesn't get much better than that.

The Usual Suspects...The last scene of the movie when Kevin Spacey has told his entire story and he explains that Kaiser will disappear "And like that" (he blows his lips and makes a gesture with his hand) "He's gone." The film fades to black and the credits roll. One of the best mystery/thriller scenes ever put on film.

Runaway Bride...Richard Gere explains how he should have proposed to his wife. "I promise that there will be bad times. I promise that one or both of us will want to get out of this thing. But I also promise that if I don't ask you to be mine, I'll regret it for the rest of my life." No explanation needed.

Renaissance Man...Khalil Kain having a conversation with his teacher (Danny DeVito) and he tells him "He who increases knowledge increases sorrow." DeVito looks at him puzzled and asks him if Shakespeare wrote it. He nods his head and says "The Bible. Even Shakespeare has his superior." Great movie, great cast. Greatly overlooked.

Love Jones...Larenz Tate and Isaiah Washington are talking about love. Washington says to Tate "Everybody keeps talking about falling in love. Falling in love ain't shit. Somebody tell me how to stay there." One of my absolute favorite movies.

The Perfect Murder...I know it's a remake but when Paltrow says to Douglas "What's the matter honey? You don't seem happy to see me." Classic.

Notting Hill...Julia Roberts is standing in front of Hugh Grant and says "I'm just a girl. Standing in front of a boy. Asking him to love her." A classic moment in love stories. This movie also has one of the best montages of time change I have ever seen. It is innovative, packed full of detail yet so simplistic it can easily be overlooked.

I watch a lot of movies. These were just a few 'great cinematic scenes' from the top of my head. I'm sure if I took my time and really thought about it, I would have a totally different list...well, The Usual Suspects will always be there ;-)

Peace & Blessings...