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Why ask for something you'll never use? |
Sunday, December 22, 2013
The Gift
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
What's my age again?
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
How's my driving
Friday, October 25, 2013
Artsy Fartsy
There is not an artistic bone in my body. Sure I can string a few words together for a decent sentence or two, but I'm not the creative type who enjoys arts and crafts. Yet for some reason I keep wanting to take on art projects to demonstrate my proficiency, or should I say lack of, in in the craft world. I blame Pinterest. It's a smorgasbord of DIY projects, crafts and so on. I always feel empowered that I too can make a hair flower, decorative wall hanging or some other random project.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Play pimpin' ain't pimpin'
There are many types of people who irk me. I blame my irritable personality syndrome. But perhaps one type that really gets to me is a play pimp. A play pimp to me is anyone who is flaky, gives a lot of lip service but no action, has a bark but no bite and so forth.
That girl is poisoned
The Death Angel is after me again, and this time he’s using
my eyesight against me. Sometimes I wonder if bats might have better eyesight
than me. I’ve been known to walk into a mic or door a time or two. But usually
my bad eyesight has never seriously impacted my health – until I woke up this
morning.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Death of a Family
Friday, August 30, 2013
Tell me your name
Is it bad I don’t know anyone’s name at church? I’ve been a member since January but still couldn’t tell you the names of half the people who attend. OK to be fair, there are quite a few people I do know, such as the youth, those who serve on the same ministries as me and several others. But that’s maybe 50 people. Hundreds attend the church. I always have to ask, “Who is that?” when someone mentions a name. There is only one possible solution to help my dilemma: name tags!
Thursday, August 22, 2013
the family rant
I love my family. I really do. But sometimes they drive me insane. This is not limited to just my parents and brother. Other family members irk me too, particularly some of my cousins. It's not like they do anything major to annoy me. Unfortunately my irritable personality syndrome magnifies the little things.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
PK Q&A
Usually when I see a Facebook question I don’t respond with my two cents. I’ll observe without getting involved. But the other day I had to give my input when I saw this post from someone who attends my dad’s church:
Monday, August 12, 2013
Romantic writings
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Use your imagination to come up with a title for this photo. |
My name is Toni, and I read romance novels. For years I used to shun this genre of books. Sure I’ve read books that included some romance in the plot, but it definitely wasn’t the central focus of the storyline. My reading lists contained mysteries, random works of fiction or paranormal books. I left the romance novels to my friend, Cee.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part VII
Of course that meeting with Mya didn't happen. It was completely my fault. I ignored her calls from Thursday until Sunday night. I did half-heartedly call on Saturday, but she didn't answer, and I hung up without leaving a message. I was actually busy most of that weekend which is why I missed a few of the calls. But honestly I just didn’t want to talk to her. I avoid confrontation at all costs (which is a post for another day) As a result Mya sort of told me off via text message. I didn’t really read the messages because I knew she was hurt and upset. This was the first major disagreement we’ve had in our 28 years of knowing each other.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part VI
Mya: Like I really want everyone I invited to come and participate. I really want everyone to get along point blank period. I know you’ve been salty with the entire planning and aggravated with everyone but don’t let it show. I feel both of you guys could have been a little nicer to one another. But it is what it is.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part V
The next morning Mya and I had the following text conversation:
Mya: I woke up to screenshots of your conversation with Lynn.
Me: OK. Personally I feel like $150 is not asking for too much. She knew it would have been at least that much from initial planning. And to have the audacity to call me rude and unprofessional! If that ain’t the pot! We were supposed to plan this together and she went ghost for several months despite repeated attempts to contact her. I am not the one for her to try.
Mya: I woke up to screenshots of your conversation with Lynn.
Me: OK. Personally I feel like $150 is not asking for too much. She knew it would have been at least that much from initial planning. And to have the audacity to call me rude and unprofessional! If that ain’t the pot! We were supposed to plan this together and she went ghost for several months despite repeated attempts to contact her. I am not the one for her to try.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part IV
Lynn: You having an attitude and being short is rude and unprofessional. I’m trying to speak to you and ask you questions and resolve issues. If you’re having a bad day say so but please don’t give off the impression that what Mya’s friends think, need and want as it relates to the biggest day of Mya’s life is miniscule to you.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part III
What follows next is our text conversation (with my thoughts):
Lynn: Hey Hun I am so sorry about being out of touch. I have seriously been beyond busy with work and everything. It’s not an excuse but if we can text that wil …(at this point the message is cut off). I haven’t received an e-mail from you so can you brief me on everything via text?
Cry me a river about being busy with work. I’m busy too but I didn’t just go ghost. And yes you didn’t receive an e-mail because when I asked all the bridal party to send their addresses, you neglected to do that as well.
Lynn: Hey Hun I am so sorry about being out of touch. I have seriously been beyond busy with work and everything. It’s not an excuse but if we can text that wil …(at this point the message is cut off). I haven’t received an e-mail from you so can you brief me on everything via text?
Cry me a river about being busy with work. I’m busy too but I didn’t just go ghost. And yes you didn’t receive an e-mail because when I asked all the bridal party to send their addresses, you neglected to do that as well.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part II
Unfortunately I ended one problem only to be faced with countless others. Perhaps I should have listened to Lynn and reduced the cost. Most of the bridal party told Mya they weren’t going because the price was too expensive if it wasn’t all inclusive. Mya even told me she wouldn’t pay that much for a trip and that my other friends and I have expensive taste.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Party Planning Woes Part I
Writing is therapeutic for me. I might seriously maim someone if I didn’t write out my feelings in a journal or on a blog (which I use to chronicle things that are just too long to write by hand). I present a series on my biggest stressor right now – planning a bachelorette party!
If someone would have told me beforehand that planning a bachelorette party was going to be a massive headache, I might have gracefully bowed out of the position.
My oldest friend (we go back to the crib literally) declared me the Maid of Honor for her wedding taking place in November. Her sister is Matron of Honor and is planning the bridal shower. My job is the bachelorette party. For some reason I thought it would be a piece of cake.
If someone would have told me beforehand that planning a bachelorette party was going to be a massive headache, I might have gracefully bowed out of the position.
My oldest friend (we go back to the crib literally) declared me the Maid of Honor for her wedding taking place in November. Her sister is Matron of Honor and is planning the bridal shower. My job is the bachelorette party. For some reason I thought it would be a piece of cake.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Naked hour
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My kind of t-shirt! |
It began one particularly hot afternoon when I came home from work and announced, “I need to lay down and be naked for at least one hour.” Living in Florida means it’s hot 90 percent of the time. That in turn means I’m always sweaty and irritable. Couple that with wearing a bra (a torture device for women), and you have one unhappy camper. Naked hour lets me get my nerves together and allows me to cool off in body and mind.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
The Principles of Envelope Addressing
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Follow this guideline for envelopes. |
Saturday, June 22, 2013
the PK plight
Sometimes I feel like people assume because my dad is a pastor they can just recruit me for all things church related without advanced notice, proper preparation or training. They think I know how to do most things church-related. Sure I grew up in the church, but I wasn’t really involved in all the behind the scenes inner workings. I joined a church in January, and since then they have had me doing this that and the other.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
the silent game
Last weekend I attended an improv show in Jax with a new friend. She
rode with me to the show, but her fiancé was picking her up later. Not long
after it ended, the fiancé was on his way. The show was in the downtown area, and
somehow he got lost. Considering the roads and layouts of downtown, that’s not
too hard to do.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
The problem with preschoolers
It takes a special person to teach children, especially preschoolers. That person is NOT me.
I was recruited to assist with the preschool class at Vacation Bible School last week. I work with the youth ministry at church and even help out in Sunday School with the primary class when needed. A Vacation Bible School class would be easy. Or so I thought.
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Preschoolers = the Kindergarteners from Recess. |
I was recruited to assist with the preschool class at Vacation Bible School last week. I work with the youth ministry at church and even help out in Sunday School with the primary class when needed. A Vacation Bible School class would be easy. Or so I thought.
Friday, June 14, 2013
Give Dad his due
Is it just me or do good dads not really seem to get the love and respect they deserve on Father’s Day? Take for instance the cards available for the occasion. Father’s Day cards are a joke compared to Mother’s Day. Most seem to be filled with back-handed compliments, undercover insults or are just plain rude. Fathers are often portrayed as lazy, henpecked or worse in those cards. If I see one more card saying, “Dad here’s your day to do absolutely nothing and not get in trouble with Mom!” I am going to call Hallmark and give them a piece of my mind.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
The definitive reunion
“Reunited and it feels so good!” Peaches and Herb were on to something with that song. It does indeed feel good to be reunited as I discovered during my class reunion last week.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
reunion worries
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My high school senior shirt. |
Monday, April 29, 2013
Business hours
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Sometimes a dating woman needs business hours. |
Friday, April 26, 2013
Better, not bitter
Back in my dating prime I didn't take break-ups, disappearing acts or ending "friendships" too well. One minute you're all sprung, infatuated or in “like” with a person. The next they're saying you're unable to reciprocate what you expect in return or are too goofy for them. Even worse they might just disappear from the face of the Earth without even a messenger pigeon.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
the letter
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Dear Wesley, Where's my letter? Signed your friend, Toni |
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Green-I-am
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Would you like green eggs and ham? |
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Hymnology 101
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The leader always has this handy when lining a hymn. |
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
the pat down
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Nothing to hide here |
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Bad children beware
Children are among my least favorite people. Actually, let me rephrase. BAD children are among my least favorite people. Too often I find myself surrounded by them. Many parents don't seem to think raising well-mannered children is a priority. Instead they let them run around like little heathens. Civilized society should not be forced to deal with their spawns of Satan. Perhaps that's why I was so sympathetic to the Dollar General employee who dispensed some old fashion discipline to a BAD child.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
I'm a survivor
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Time to go: Part 2
Bad attitudes don't help bad situations. The assistant editor was thrown into a bad situation but part of the problem was his personality. He was a deplorable person, which he admitted. He once called a meeting with three of us reporters to say we are the worse staff members ever. Morale had already been low, and he made it worse by insinuating we all were about to be fired (did I mention this was on my birthday). Yet when you asked for specific details of what we did wrong he couldn’t pinpoint them (sounds familiar). Ultimately the assistant editor was the one let go, and a new editor came in. Finally I would have the leadership, consistency and training I craved. Or so I thought. I was wrong. I thought things would change, and they did in some areas, but they stayed the same in too many others.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
the silver fox
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She found her first gray hair too! |
Somebody grab a bottle of Clairol ASAP! The gray is coming! Yes, yours truly found her first gray hair on Saturday. There had been a series of false alarms (mainly because a certain white cat is always in my bed which leads to white fur always in my hair), but this time it is official. My dad went gray in his early 30s and I have several other cousins who got silver locs at a young age. It wasn't much of a surprise that I've found gray already.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Time to go: Part 1
Most people ask if I left the news industry because I didn’t like being a reporter. I loved it. By no means was I a world class journalist. Sure I was a good reporter, but I wasn’t GREAT. Still I loved being a reporter. Yes, there was little pay, late hours and no appreciation, but that didn’t outweigh my love of writing, meeting new people and telling their story and just being out and about. The real reason I left was because I was scared of one day hating it.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
what i want to be
I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up anymore. Maybe I never really had it figured out. That thought kind of scares me. Everyone always pointed to me as the person who had a definite career plan. The one thing I’ve always been gung-ho about is being a reporter. I wrote for my middle school and high school newspapers. I interned at newspapers during high school and college. And of course I worked as a reporter for several years post-college. But now I don’t.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
word problems
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Everything is better with friends. |
It’s feeding time
Public breastfeeding incidents have been in the news several times over the last few months with some sparking quite a bit of controversy. There was the professor who breastfed while teaching her class and received a reprimand. Beyonce fed Blue Ivy while out at lunch one day. Another story showcased military mothers breastfeeding in uniform. And who can forget the Time Magazine cover story featuring a 3-year-old being breastfed? Just the other day I read an article about three mothers who staged a “nurse-in” at their Delaware mall to spread awareness about a woman’s right to nurse in public. They were asked to leave by a state trooper and security guards.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
this, that and the other
The other night I was perusing "Stuff Christians Like" by Jon Acuff and had a laugh fest for a good hour. It got me to thinking several question about this, that and the other regarding church and Christian life, such as:
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
the professional mourner
All these years I’ve been wasting my talents. I’ve officially found my niche in life – a professional mourner. You have the funeral, and I’ll bring the tears. To think I’ve missed out on this particular career path for so long.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Love, marriage and a baby carriage
Is there something in the water? Everyone seems to either be a) getting engaged, b) getting married or c) having a baby. I can't log on Facebook without seeing an announcement about a friend joining one of those categories. It's enough to drive a single girl crazy, and I am not liking that at all.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Can you testify?
It's a new year which means Writing Wednesday is back in full effect. I promise to do so much better than last year which featured numerous bouts of disappearing (blame it on my chronic sickness). One of my goals for this year is to be healthier. That should translate to writing regularly and not owing the Writing Wednesday Pot. Also I plan on writing an additional post at least a few times a month not on Writing Wednesday.
For 2013 I decided to take it back to the Old School for my New Year's Eve celebration. Instead of partying it up I went to Watch Night Service at church. A watch night service is a late-night Christian Church service held on New Year's Eve. Watch night service is especially important to the black community because many slaves were said to have gathered in churches on New Year's Eve,in 1862 to await the Emancipation Proclamation being enacted on Jan. 1, 1863.
For 2013 I decided to take it back to the Old School for my New Year's Eve celebration. Instead of partying it up I went to Watch Night Service at church. A watch night service is a late-night Christian Church service held on New Year's Eve. Watch night service is especially important to the black community because many slaves were said to have gathered in churches on New Year's Eve,in 1862 to await the Emancipation Proclamation being enacted on Jan. 1, 1863.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
The best birthday gift ever
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An example of the journal |
Sunday, December 23, 2012
I can't be bothered Pt. 2
My generation does not know how to date anymore. Text messages have replaced meaningful conversations. I don't know who thought that was a good idea. It is the absolute worse concept ever, yet none of the young (and old) people of today seem to understand that.
Friday, December 21, 2012
I can't be bothered PT. 1
The older I get the more hellish I become toward the male species. I blame my cynical nature. At the end of the day I just can't be bothered with some of the things they say and do. Case and point this one gentleman I recently started chatting with.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
christmas list - childhood version
"I don't want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need..." Um speak for yourself Mariah Carey. I want a lot. Well my inner child wants a lot for Christmas. A few weeks ago I received the Target, Walmart and American Girl toy catalogs, and the 7-year-old inside of me squealed with glee. I immediately went to work at circling all the things I, uh a yonger version of me, would want. I'm happy to see toy catalogues are still filled with toys. Apparently the children still like them. Of course there were a few tablets thrown in the mix as well, but they were definitely kid-friendly. If I was a child today my Christmas list would look something like this:
Monday, December 3, 2012
Still the last to know
It's happening again. Someone in the family is in a serious condition and no one bothers to tell me until DAYS later. I've said it before, I'm always the last to know when it comes to family matters.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
loves of my reading life
Reading is my absolute favorite past time. Often I neglect performing necessary chores - such as washing my hair, cooking or cleaning - because I get lost in a good book. Many of the books I read are part of a series, and over the years I have developed "crushes" on several of the main characters. If only the men of the real world were like the ones in the books I read. I promise I would get my act together to be on their team. My book loves include:
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
bun head
This week I have been experimenting with wearing a bun every day. Every. Single. Day. Who knew there were so many different bun styles to wear? It's partially out of not wanting to wash my hair every week. I'm trying the every other week approach for the winter.Basically I wear it twisted week one and loose during week two. The buns have helped me stretch not washing my hair.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
the faux beau
One of my male friends has this annoying habit of always asking about my love life. It was non-existent last week. It's non-existent this week. More than likely it will be non-existent next week. Maybe if I was beating guys off with a broom I could understand the perpetual interest in my love lack, or lack thereof. No, I'm perpetually dateless, and he knows this. So during one umpteenth time of him asking about me dating someone I decided to make a faux beau up.
Monday, November 26, 2012
the ghost writer
Recently I was asked by one of my dad's friends to edit a Lenten devotional featuring writers from within their church association. Devotionals were due to me Nov. 11. Guess which writer has yet to turn one in. Yes, my own dear old dad. I've been bugging him about his devotionals for more than a month but to no avail. His excuse is being too busy. Yeah right. Just because you pastor a church, serve as moderator for a church association and as a vice president for the state convention doesn't mean you're busy. Well maybe just a little.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
baby it's cold outside
Sometimes I forget which season is the current one we're in at the moment. Blame it on Florida weather. The weather ranges from hot to really hot. Occasionally we try to throw in something else called less hot. When it's "less hot," natives know to dress in layers for it will indeed be "cold" in the morning, but by noon the temperature will rise to 75 degrees again. That wool coat will be overkill come lunchtime when you are sweating like a pig. At least that was the case last week.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
family holiday traditions
I've always said once I have my own family we would start our own holiday traditions. My parents don't really listen to my suggestions for traditions.And trying to get the rest of my family to follow would nearly be impossible. So I need a familyof my own. Well marriage is pretty far away and children are definitely not on the horizon anytime soon, but I do have a family of sorts - my roommates.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Character death
I'd like to think I don't typically get too attached to a book, movie or TV series character. The key word here is "Think." The reality is I get attached to characters easily. When Mufasa died in The Lion King my face was covered in tears. I still don't think I'll recover from Paul's death on Dollhouse. My lastest major blow was the death of Sirius Black in Harry Potter. Yes, I am tardy for the party, but the loss is still felt just as fresh as if I had read the books when they originally came out.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Being thankful
Things I'm thankful for this Thanksgiving:
1. Two awesome roommates
2. My circle of close friends
3. My family
4. Ozzy, who is NOT my cat
5. My job
6. My play family
7. God's grace and mercy
8. You my five followers
9. My bestest friend
10. Thanksgiving leftovers!
1. Two awesome roommates
2. My circle of close friends
3. My family
4. Ozzy, who is NOT my cat
5. My job
6. My play family
7. God's grace and mercy
8. You my five followers
9. My bestest friend
10. Thanksgiving leftovers!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
pre-thanksgiving poem
With the help of my Play Cousin I wrote a special Pre-Thanksgiving poem. Share it with your family and friends next year.
The night before Thanksgiving.
The night before Thanksgiving.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Spoiler Alert
There is something about a good spoiler that just makes you want to read or watch whatever it's in regards too. Oh wait, am I the only person who likes spoilers? OK, my name is TONI and I like book and movie spoilers. Knowing the ending first makes it all worthwhile for me.
Monday, November 19, 2012
n-word too deep
Yours truly is a mentor to several young people. I try to keep an atmosphere that is accepting and allows them to be who they are. For the most part they are respectful when around me. If they should slip up and say a bad word, I don't wash their mouth out with soap. I do say, "Language," and they get the message to keep it clean. But the other day I had to put one in check (in a nice way of course) about her word choice. Instead of cussing, she used the dreaded N-Word.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
when bridezillas attack
I have a confession. I am addicted to watching Bridezillas. I blame my roommate K. She is always watching it on Netflix, and being the nosy person that I am, I have to watch it too. The chicks are CRAZY. And not in a good way. These women are demanding, rude, inconsiderate and just plain evil. It sort of makes you dread every being a part of a wedding.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Play to win
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I play to win. |
Friday, November 16, 2012
the hair extravaganza
It's time for me to have a hair extravaganza. I say extravaganza because my hair process takes anywhere from two hours to two days to complete (it depends on how I am feeling). The extravaganza only occurs once every week (actually it's more like every other week), otherwise I would go broke from buying hair products (and never have time to do anything). From start to finish this is my hair extravaganza:
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Coming soon: New American
It looks like the South wants to rise again (because we all know how well that turned out the last time). There could be a “New America” in the future. The other day I was talking to my Play Cousin about the people that want to secede from the U.S. Residents across the nation have signed petitions requesting that their state – mainly Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Texas and yes even my Florida – be allowed to peacefully secede from the country because of the presidential election. PC and I can find foolishness to talk about even with the most serious of topics (much like Cee and I did during election night). We began to ponder many things if the people were allowed to secede.
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For voters who've considered suicide when the election is too much. |
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
children on strike
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What's a living wage for a child these days? |
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
No Shave November
Monday, November 12, 2012
Dreamland inspiration
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I wonder what he's dreaming about. |
I shared a dream a year ago with some friends. One of them used it as a basis for a book (Roller Derby Vampire Girl) which he wants to get published. Another of my weird dreams would make a good TV or novel series in the fantasy realm. Maybe one of the dreams I had this week could be the basis of another artistic venture.
I’m too lazy to pen a book, script or play myself. Perhaps you, my four readers, might be inspired to create something. Below is a quick synopsis of what I remember from the weirdest dream. Just give me a shout out in the book, moving credits or show premiere (and a check would be nice too). If by chance you have an interpretation of my dream, please share it.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
God save the small town
Growing up I lived in a major city, but after high
school I started living in smaller and smaller places. These days I live in a
small town. There are a lot of downsides to a small town, such as the lack of a
dating pool, cultural diversity and just having something to do on the weekends.
My current location is three times bigger than the last one so I will survive
(just like Gloria Gaynor) However, living in a small town isn’t all bad. There
are also many some a few advantages. People are generally
friendlier, and everybody knows your name. It’s like Cheers all over the place.
Traffic is practically nonexistent, and I can typically get from one end of
town to the other in 15 minutes. That never happened in my hometown.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
The cat and the maiden
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The cat in his favorite spot - the maiden's bed. |
Friday, November 9, 2012
Lunchtime change
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Just a bunch of twists hanging freely. |
Some mornings I can’t decide on how I want to wear my hair. I get up about 40 minutes before work (I literally work five minutes from my house). Once I’ve showered, gotten dressed and so forth, I usually have about 10 minutes to spare on my hair. In such a short amount of time I might not have a clear hair vision for the day.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Oh, am I late?
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The start of it all. |
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Final election thoughts
An interesting exchange happened between an 8-year-old girl and me today. While sitting next to me (and working my nerves) during a luncheon, she asked who I voted for.
"That's a personal issue, and I don't share how I voted," I said.
"It better not be Obama," she said. "He's a liar. Did you vote for him?"
"Like I said, it's personal, and I'm not sharing."
"That's a personal issue, and I don't share how I voted," I said.
"It better not be Obama," she said. "He's a liar. Did you vote for him?"
"Like I said, it's personal, and I'm not sharing."
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
the end is near
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I hope everyone exercised their right to vote today. |
/president/whatever movies. While you're waiting to hear the election results, pass the time watching one (or all) of them.
Monday, November 5, 2012
X marks the spot
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Who can still write like this? |
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Praise and Worship Mix
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My worship is for real. |
Saturday, November 3, 2012
A fair account
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Yay for the fair! |
Friday, November 2, 2012
Direct approach
Subtlety is not a concept I comprehend. While most women can
instantly recognize when a guy is flirting with or even interested in them, I
sadly don’t notice. Usually a friend has to point it out to me, or it’s not
until months later that I realize he likes me a little more than just a friend.
It would save me a lot of confusion if
guys could just be a little more direct. Don’t beat around the bush because I
won’t get it. For instance a male acquaintance recently revealed I rejected his
request for a date. Me? Reject a date? I haven’t been on a date in several
years. I promise if someone asked me out I would accept (in most cases).
Thursday, November 1, 2012
NaBloPoMo - Guess who's back?
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Visit www.nablopomo.com! |
Sunday, October 21, 2012
The Return ... Again
To the four people who read my blog, I am sooooo sorry for my lack of posting. I took a sabbatical in June but started posting again in October. The only problem is I posted on Facebook and forgot to post on my blog. I'm forgetful like that. I promise to make it up to you my faithful readers during NaBloPoMo. That's right! You get 30 days of me posting yet again. Shout out to Cee for introducing me to NaBloPoMo (and Writing Wednesday as well as everything else cool in my life). I'll be gone 'til November.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
hair and there again
This June marks seven years of being natural. Yay! I was natural before it was such a widespread movement. Most of the popular natural hair blogs, Youtube videos and even product lines were hardly on the radar. Initially most of my natural hair journey was trial and error. Now I have vast pieces of knowledge at my fingertips. Every day I'm learning more and more about what and what not to use in my hair, cool ways to style it and so forth. My Writing Wednesday posts for June will be dedicated to natural hair in honor of my seven years.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
bon appetite
I like to eat. There’s just no better way to put it. I
like dinner. I like lunch. I like breakfast. Basically I like every meal
(though I am not into snacking). Sadly my love for eating does not help my
waistline. Gone are the days when I was carless and walked everywhere. That
helped keep my much smaller. My brother says we should eat to live, not live to
eat. I’m working on it. But there is just so much good food out there. Will I
get the opportunity to taste it all? I just don’t know. But please believe I am
trying.
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Yummy! |
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
for want of a cast
I have a confession. Growing up I always wanted a cast on my arm and underarm crutches. Don't laugh. Those two things were the epitome of cool in my opinion as a child. The ugly green-eyed monster would rear its head every time I saw someone who was lucky enough to get them. "Why couldn't it be me?" I wondered. I was, and still am, very clumsy. Yet I managed to never really hurt myself (until adulthood). I thought I would be the happiest girl in the world with a cast or crutches. Both just had so much fun to offer in my mind.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
in theaters this summer
Summer time is swiftly approaching, and no one is more
excited than me. T’is the season of the blockbuster. Movies choices just tend
to be much better during the summer to me. Normally I’m not that big on going
to the movies. I used to never have any time. These days I only work a four day
week during the summer. I’ve got time to spare. And what better way to do so
than in a nice air conditioned movie theater. With the upcoming summer schedule
I can’t help but want to see quite a few movies. On any give Friday matinee you
might catch me at the following movies:
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Appreciation week
OK boys and girls, let’s all play the imagination game. Everyone close your eyes and prepare for a few mental images. First imagine a world without teachers. Ignorance is the norm as students walk around with empty minds. Next imagine a world with no nurses. Patients have no one to provide constant day-to-day care or an understanding of their ailment. Finally imagine a world without police officers. Citizens have to survive in an unsafe environment where lawlessness reigns supreme. Did anyone like those situations described? Absolutely not!
The month of May is filled with appreciation for several groups of important people. May 6-12 marks Teacher Appreciation and Nurse Appreciation Week, followed by National Police Week May 13-19. In honor of these three groups of wonderful workers here are stories of a few of my favorite individuals.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
a summer kind of love
Lately the weather has done its share of letting me know it's getting close to that special time of year again – summertime! With the arrival of this new season comes vacations, reunions and summer lovin’ – that oh so magical thing the kids sing about in “Grease.” Summer is all about the love, whether you’re single and free to mingle or happily together with someone. No one wants to be left out the fun and “uh-oh those summer nights.” My grandma thinks it’s high time I got a male friend. She wants to see me married. So I figured now is the perfect time to jump on the summer lovin' bandwagon. But it’s going to take some help from all my family and friends. I have prepared a special announcement for all to share: Attention single males between the ages of 27-37! Toni is now accepting applications for a summertime beau. Inquire within.
Do your part everyone and spread the word. All are welcome to apply. Just make sure they fit my three mandatory requirements. The other week I shared mine with my grandma, and she approved. I’d like to think I’m a simple girl for the most part. I’ll gladly work with a brother to an extent. Sure I have my massive list of pre-qualifications. But I don’t cross (that many) people off just because they put down something other than my preferred response. However, I believe everyone is entitled to their top three deal breakers. So for me, any summertime beau applicant must: love the Lord; have straight, white teeth; and be able to conjugate verbs.
Each day I am working to strengthen my relationship with God. I can’t get sidetracked by someone who thinks my relationship is unimportant. Besides, I once dated a guy who thought he was coming back as a cat. That didn’t last long. I thought his religious beliefs were stupid. Of all the things to come back as, he wanted to be a cat. I would at least want to come back as someone rich and fabulous.
Do your part everyone and spread the word. All are welcome to apply. Just make sure they fit my three mandatory requirements. The other week I shared mine with my grandma, and she approved. I’d like to think I’m a simple girl for the most part. I’ll gladly work with a brother to an extent. Sure I have my massive list of pre-qualifications. But I don’t cross (that many) people off just because they put down something other than my preferred response. However, I believe everyone is entitled to their top three deal breakers. So for me, any summertime beau applicant must: love the Lord; have straight, white teeth; and be able to conjugate verbs.
Each day I am working to strengthen my relationship with God. I can’t get sidetracked by someone who thinks my relationship is unimportant. Besides, I once dated a guy who thought he was coming back as a cat. That didn’t last long. I thought his religious beliefs were stupid. Of all the things to come back as, he wanted to be a cat. I would at least want to come back as someone rich and fabulous.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
the bad week
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I wish I was only having a bad day. |
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Smarter than a fourth grader
Math has never been my forte. It especially went downhill after I stopped taking piano lessons in high school (playing a musical instrument enhances your math skills). I’ve always been more of a words kind of girl. Long as I know the basics – addition, subtraction, multiplication and division – I’m just fine. And if nothing else I can figure out elementary school math. Or so I thought.
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Rita made this design. I had to figure out how it looks rotated 90 degrees and then flipped. Who cares Rita? |
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Reunion Buddies Wanted
Sorry that my Writing Wednesday posts were on hiatus for so long. I was sick, on spring break and a tad bit lazy. Now I’m back. I owe the WW pot at least $100. No more breaks are planned for the future.
Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday I was a goofy high school freshman. Now I’m a goofy adult. Several weeks ago I was telling my friend, Ebonita, how 2012 marks five years since we’ve graduated from college. It made me think of another approaching milestone– our 10 year high school graduation anniversary in 2013. At first I was all excited because that means a class reunion is coming. Then I realized I need a reunion buddy. Reunions are no fun without one.
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Coming soon to a writer near you... |
Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday I was a goofy high school freshman. Now I’m a goofy adult. Several weeks ago I was telling my friend, Ebonita, how 2012 marks five years since we’ve graduated from college. It made me think of another approaching milestone– our 10 year high school graduation anniversary in 2013. At first I was all excited because that means a class reunion is coming. Then I realized I need a reunion buddy. Reunions are no fun without one.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
The old young person
As I type these words I am so sleepy.
Am I really only 27? Some days I feel at least 67. It’s not necessarily because of aches and pains. But some of my habits and interests make me feel that way. The little things keep pointing more and more to the fact that I’m getting older.
The first sign was how I go to bed so early. There was a time I could stay up until the sun was out for several nights in a row. But now I’m pushing it if I’m up beyond 11 p.m. Just today the need for sleep hit me at 9:30 p.m. I couldn’t wait to see my bed.
Am I really only 27? Some days I feel at least 67. It’s not necessarily because of aches and pains. But some of my habits and interests make me feel that way. The little things keep pointing more and more to the fact that I’m getting older.
The first sign was how I go to bed so early. There was a time I could stay up until the sun was out for several nights in a row. But now I’m pushing it if I’m up beyond 11 p.m. Just today the need for sleep hit me at 9:30 p.m. I couldn’t wait to see my bed.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
52 Weeks of Memories: Week 4.2-9
I promise I’ve been getting up, getting out and doing something each week. I just haven’t written about what I’m doing in two months. Here’s a brief recap
4.2 I participated in a postage party for my former work BFF. She’s getting married this summer. It will be my first “white wedding.” Several of the cards I addressed were to my former co-workers.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
The pre-screening
Forgot to post this last week.
Sometimes I wonder if there is a sign on my head that says “Losers welcome!” Most men who’ve approached me in the past and present weren’t worth two rusty nickels. But I sometimes didn’t realize that until after they got my number. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but no one tells you upfront they are a waste of time. After some soul searching, I have decided to take charge of my future. From henceforth any guys asking for my number will have to go through a pre-screening questionnaire. It will help me determine just who is worth my time. I just can’t be bothered with everybody. Too many wrong answers will automatically dismiss someone. The questions are:
Sometimes I wonder if there is a sign on my head that says “Losers welcome!” Most men who’ve approached me in the past and present weren’t worth two rusty nickels. But I sometimes didn’t realize that until after they got my number. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but no one tells you upfront they are a waste of time. After some soul searching, I have decided to take charge of my future. From henceforth any guys asking for my number will have to go through a pre-screening questionnaire. It will help me determine just who is worth my time. I just can’t be bothered with everybody. Too many wrong answers will automatically dismiss someone. The questions are:
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
The Italian Mask Caper
'Tis Leap Day and only fitting and proper I present something you shall probably not see again from me for another four years - a fictional post. Once upon a time, several friends and I talked about what would hypothetically happen if we went on an adventure to Italy to replace a broken mask. I was supposed to write a short story about that conversation a long time ago, but I didn't because I'm lazy. Plus fiction writing is HARD. My play cousin and fake beau make it seem so easy. I have about 500 hundred novels in my head but none of the patience to actually write one. So I started part of the tale. It's nowhere near finished and not that great. I am a woman of many talents, but fiction writing is not my forte. Yet I am determined to finish it. Maybe by next Leap Day. Non-fiction chronicles will resume next week.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Love, Peace and Soul
Apparently I didn't post Feb. 1 on my blog. Here it is as it appeared on Facebook.
The Death Angel has struck again. First he took Etta James from us. This time he has taken the icon of soul himself, Don Cornelius. Who’s next Lord? ‘Tis a sad day of mourning in the land of all that is rhythm. My mother called to tell me the news earlier today. I had to take a moment to blast my old school music and dance on down a Soul Train line of one in his memory. It’s no fun having a Soul Train line with one person for the record. But this was for Don.
The Death Angel has struck again. First he took Etta James from us. This time he has taken the icon of soul himself, Don Cornelius. Who’s next Lord? ‘Tis a sad day of mourning in the land of all that is rhythm. My mother called to tell me the news earlier today. I had to take a moment to blast my old school music and dance on down a Soul Train line of one in his memory. It’s no fun having a Soul Train line with one person for the record. But this was for Don.
Two for one
Sorry I didn’t post last week for Writing Wednesday. I fell asleep after reading “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.” Here are two posts for the price of one to make up for my absence.
In honor of Whitney
When I heard the news about Whitney Houston’s passing it hurt my heart. This was worse than when Michael Jackson died, and I loved his music. Sure I didn’t know her personally, but Nippy was like the crazy favorite aunt of my head. You wanted her to get her life together because you loved her. For the record I blame Bobby Brown! My friends and I say we’re going to make a tribute video to Whitney during our next road trip. I believe it will be a YouTube sensation (meaning all of us and about three other people will watch it). A Whitney tribute won’t be complete without these songs:
In honor of Whitney
When I heard the news about Whitney Houston’s passing it hurt my heart. This was worse than when Michael Jackson died, and I loved his music. Sure I didn’t know her personally, but Nippy was like the crazy favorite aunt of my head. You wanted her to get her life together because you loved her. For the record I blame Bobby Brown! My friends and I say we’re going to make a tribute video to Whitney during our next road trip. I believe it will be a YouTube sensation (meaning all of us and about three other people will watch it). A Whitney tribute won’t be complete without these songs:
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
my favorite things ii
Several years ago for the July 29, 2009 Writing Wednesday I posted a few of my favorite things. If Oprah can do it, so can I. Unfortunately, I’m not at the point in my life where I can give my favorite things out to everyone. Stay tuned. It will happen one day. Until then, here’s a list of what I’m digging right now.
Leonid McGill series by Walter Mosley. I thought nothing could compare to the Easy Rawlins series which features “Devil in a Blue Dress” and 10 other books. Then I read “The Long Fall.” There are a total of four books in this series so far, and I plan on reading each one. I still love me some Easy Rawlins, but I hear Mosley is done with the series. That’s fine with me. I’m team Leonid now.
Leonid McGill series by Walter Mosley. I thought nothing could compare to the Easy Rawlins series which features “Devil in a Blue Dress” and 10 other books. Then I read “The Long Fall.” There are a total of four books in this series so far, and I plan on reading each one. I still love me some Easy Rawlins, but I hear Mosley is done with the series. That’s fine with me. I’m team Leonid now.
52 weeks of Memories: Weeks 1.2., 2.2. and 3.2
I haven’t written about my memories in a few weeks, but that doesn’t mean they were non-existent. The start of January means my dry run on this challenge is over. Now it’s time to really play the game and make some memories.
It was all about experiencing a new restaurant Week 1.2. My play cousin suggested the LCR lunch crew and I have lunch at this fairly new restaurant called Ray’s. They had corn nuggets. Sweet. Delicious. Corn nuggets. I was instantly a fan. Ray’s kind of reminds us of our former favorite lunch spot McAlister’s. Sadly the local store closed. Ray’s however is a nice substitute. I was getting tired of Moe’s and Yum’s, our other two regular spots. We ate lunch at Ray’s on a Wednesday and again on Friday. I plan on taking my shero, the chief of police, to lunch sometime soon. I’m suggesting we go to Ray’s.
It was all about experiencing a new restaurant Week 1.2. My play cousin suggested the LCR lunch crew and I have lunch at this fairly new restaurant called Ray’s. They had corn nuggets. Sweet. Delicious. Corn nuggets. I was instantly a fan. Ray’s kind of reminds us of our former favorite lunch spot McAlister’s. Sadly the local store closed. Ray’s however is a nice substitute. I was getting tired of Moe’s and Yum’s, our other two regular spots. We ate lunch at Ray’s on a Wednesday and again on Friday. I plan on taking my shero, the chief of police, to lunch sometime soon. I’m suggesting we go to Ray’s.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
the apple remedy
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Apples are the best remedy. |
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
The ultimate blocker
Blocker– block·er, noun, /ˈbläkər/ blockers, plural
Dictionary.com definition: A person or thing that blocks, in particular.
Urbandictionary.com definition: The person who blocks the progress of any “play” when a man is trying to talk to and flirt with a woman.
For years I have unjustly declared my father the ultimate blocker. Everyone wants to date the son of a preacher man, but such is not the case for the daughter. Numerous guys, real or imagined, were too afraid to pursue me because my father is a pastor (or maybe because they didn’t even know I was interested). Well there’s a new ultimate blocker in town and her name is MOMMY!
Dictionary.com definition: A person or thing that blocks, in particular.
Urbandictionary.com definition: The person who blocks the progress of any “play” when a man is trying to talk to and flirt with a woman.
For years I have unjustly declared my father the ultimate blocker. Everyone wants to date the son of a preacher man, but such is not the case for the daughter. Numerous guys, real or imagined, were too afraid to pursue me because my father is a pastor (or maybe because they didn’t even know I was interested). Well there’s a new ultimate blocker in town and her name is MOMMY!
Monday, January 2, 2012
52 weeks of memories: week 8
I concluded my dry run of 52 weeks of memories with a New Year’s Eve party/bday celebration at la casa in Lake City. The evening began with dinner at Red Lobsters, granted about an hour later than planned. I left my parents’ house about three hours behind schedule. We love some cheddar bay biscuits in my crew. We laughed and joked and got to know one another. Oh yeah and we ate a lot of seafood.
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