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Friday, December 19, 2008

Jose says.....

I need to find a family! Yes, Jose Cuervo told me to find myself a family for real tonight!



I was literally sipping on a concoction of Jose, orange juice, and cherry liqueur; essentially my all time favorite, Tequila Sunrise, when the thought violently landed in my psyche.



Truthfully, I've felt that way for quite a while recently. The more I think about my immediate family and our interactions the more I am saddened generally. Wow, I can't believe I actually said it. But, I am usually disappointed with the outcomes.



It appears that chaos is ruled as okay in my family. Along with betrayal, back-stabbing, slander, sexual indiscretions, disrespect, and a total disregard for others feelings. Unfortunately, I think so many members are just afraid to take a stand against this bull shit. It shouldn't ever be allowed and overlooked. That only makes the behavior worsen.



Sometimes I think, no matter how hard you try to live by example, some folks just can't see the light of day and act accordingly. To me I think it is a direct effect of "selfishness" outright. You don't teach selfishness, you become it by not caring about others whether connected by blood or not. I'm sure this is available in all families to a degree but mine has an over abundance I think!



This has bothered me emotionally for an entire year. I have voiced my concerns to the immediate members of my family to no avail. They appear to understand what I have been saying but have yet to address it personally. To that I say, to each his own. That's the overwhelming consensus. I'm done with this topic.

What Do You Know About Affiliate Marketing?

For quite a while now, I've been searching the Internet for opportunities that are legitimate and can be performed from home or a mobile office with financial success. In addition, I've been trying to analyze the growth potential for such ventures as well. I've found that there are many viable opportunities available, with some true dedication and will, that can be profitable if executed.

In the near future I will be launching a full service affiliate marketing site that caters to the unemployed and hard to employ category. With an emphasis on self sufficiency instead of dependency on others.

Affiliate marketing is basically you "affiliating" with a "company, brand, product, or service" available online. You have an agreement to basically help them develop business either through traffic to the site, sales of the products and or services, signing up for offers, and so forth. You in turn receive "commissions, residuals" on a periodic basis by check, pay pal, wire transfer, or direct deposit into your present accounts. This in turn helps all parties involved and can be done completely from the comfort of home or a small mobile office setting; without a boss, FOR YOURSELF. Imagine that.

You just need the resources and the drive. I am finally at a point in my life where I'm so tired of making excuses for the "excuses in my life" and plan on moving past that now and doing me for a change. I am about helping others by nature and "granny wisdom" but I have needs as well and I am going to start addressing them more often.

Stay tuned.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Reserve Perrin--Cotes du Rhone--2006

Thanks Liz for my "Birthday Gift". I thoroughly enjoyed it, alone!!!

CADILLAC RECORDS!!....Go See It!

You must go out and see the new Sony Pictures movie, "Cadillac Records" starring Adrian Brody, Jeffrey Wright, and my love, Beyonce Knowles as the beloved Etta James.

It is a riveting movie showcasing the transition of Ms. B to the role of "executive producer" as well. I was so impressed with that fact alone.

Cadillac Records portrays the lives of some of our most memorable musicians during the start of the Rock-n-Roll era. Jeffrey Wright does a "Jamie Foxx" with his portrayal of Muddy Waters. He becomes "muddy" and electrifies the big screen. I have developed an even deeper respect for his talent. He deserves an "OSCAR" nod, hands down, no question.

Mos Def makes his appearance as the smooth-crooning Chuck Berry. Mos Def is truly an entertainer made to act. He almost stole the show with his charm. Another potential award winner is he. I sincerely hope this cast is not overlooked!

Adrian Brody almost made me cringe. He brought his "A" game for sure to this project. Gabrielle Union was worth mentioning as well. She is polished and a great patroness of her craft. Ms. Union had me holding back the tears during one scene when it was revealed that she could not bear kids!!!

Beyonce as Etta was truly a treat. To all those that doubt her talent; go out and see "Cadillac Records" for yourself.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Thank You's for now......more Later?

I must say that "born day's" are such a blessing. We aren't guaranteed a certain number when born. It is up to us to cherish each one, each day, and each blessing and well wish from our loved ones and acquaintances.

I am humbled even more by well wishes on my born day and was not satisfied by the love??????

My sis Boss, my roomie, wished me a happy birthday "early" so that she wouldn't forget. Lol. She was thoughtful enough to get me some cheap house slippers. Thanks Boss, I appreciate the effort.

I plan to keep them for a long awaited trip I'm planning in the near future!

My baby sis, Neck, called right after midnight on Monday night and was actually the first "official" Happy Birthday I received. I love my baby sis Neck so much and appreciate it. She WAS thinking about little ole me!

Cuzzo was next at 4:18am on December 9th. I sincerely love myself some Cuzzo. He is my best friend and I hate when I can't see him. Unfortunately, I was unable to see Cuzzo on my born day because he has finals at the local community college. I am all about academics, so, get that "A" bitch!

Cuzzo called again at 9:40am, then Leen called at 10:03am and left me a voice mail. Leen is my godson's mom and co-worker. She is a dear friend, a mess, and a lot of fun. She is a whole story in itself. Love ya Leen!

Boss called at 11:14am officially. Thanks bay. You know I love your messy ass!

Moma called at 11:25am officially. I know she was trying to wait until my Actual Birth Time!!! She said she couldn't wait til 12:01pm. No problem mom, I love you regardless. You brought me into t!he world and made all this possible. I will be forever in your debt.

My little church sister, Enya, called me today and wished me a happy b-day. I was surprised by the call and "tied up" at the time. I must return her call and say thanks.

My girl from the hood, GB in Georgia, called "out the blue" and wished me a happy b-day. She also wanted Neck's number for something. Any Who!!!

A new "friend" of mine, from the job, called me today as well. Now, I am actually really interested in this person and I was not expecting to hear from them today! Talk about birthday gifts! I was pleasantly surprised and we made plans for later this week. I'll keep you posted.
Remember, I am backed up people; but definitely not desperate for some ACTION!!!

When I explode, You explode...Believe that.

And that's basically it.

MY BAD

Actually, I had a meeting at work today. It was one of our mandatory weekly meetings being imposed by our new retail manager. I was actually glad to attend the meeting being I didn't have any real plans for my born day. I received nothing but LOVE at the workplace.

My cohorts and coworkers wished me well. I am truly blessed to have such a loving work environment and loving people in my circle.

One of my managers gave me a bottle of French wine. I am very thankful for her thoughtfulness and will share my experiences with consumption of the gift!

IN CLOSING

I thoroughly enjoyed my born day overall. I am a simple man and I don't require much to be content. I had a nice outing at the movies and some Tequila Sunrises and I made another statistic null and void.

I Like Monday Night Football and...

The home team, Carolina Panthers executed last night and we got a much deserved hard fought win over division foe Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers came ready to play and this was obvious early on in play.

Carolina managed to drive to the red zone on the first possession and connected with a Kasey field goal to give us the early lead. Cadillac Williams returned to the TB line-up and contributed somewhat; but not enough to hurt the Panthers.

Rookie sensation, Jonathan Stewart worked out a first half TD following a Tampa Bay FG with 1:56 left in the first half. The Panthers closed out the first half of Monday Night Football with a 10 to 3 lead.

After halftime, it was basically ALL Panthers!

Our running back tandem of "Slash and Dash" made their respective presences known as well. Both RB's rushed for over 100 yards each at an average of at least 6 yards per carry. This is simply remarkable at this stage of the season! De Angelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart showed their heart and grit Monday night. These young men worked for their salaries and entertained at the same time.

I think so, or maybe it's the Tequila! The game was competitive and this made the ending more compelling. I couldn't have scripted it better. LOL.

That feat by the Panthers was historic. That's what's up Panthers!

Final score, Panthers 38 and Buccaneers 23. We are now 10-3 here in Panther Country.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

!!!!MY BIRTH-DAY!!!!

I FIRST WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT I CAUGHT HELL TRYING TO GET THIS POST ON BEFORE MIDNIGHT. MY SYSTEM DIDN'T SEEM TO WANT TO LOAD SO THAT I COULD POST; BUT THANK GOD, AND I DO MEAN: THANK GOD!!!!! BECAUSE HE IS THE REASON I AM ABLE TO DO THIS CONSISTENTLY. I WAS STRUGGLING AT FIRST ACCEPTING 35 BUT IT'S DEFINITELY ALL GOOD AND A BLESSING TO STILL BE HERE.

I AM A BLACK MAN AND BASED ON STATISTICS, I'VE SURPASSED EXPECTATIONS IN LIFE EXPECTANCY. PRAISE GOD, THANK GOD, AND WORSHIP GOD......MY ADVICE TO ALL. HE IS REAL AND POWERFUL. HE IS ALSO GREATER THAN GREAT, AND I LOVE MY HEAVENLY FATHER.

THANK YOU GOD FOR SENDING JESUS FOR ALL OF US. I AM THANKFUL AND HAPPY, BUT NOT FULFILLED. HAPPY B-DAY HIGHHEEL.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Productive Friday

I had a very productive Friday, December 5, 2008. I accomplished most of the tasks I had planned for the day. That validates my reason for proclaiming today productive!

I started bright and early this morning. I just couldn't get to sleep after showering off last night's work smell! I sat up, surfed the Internet, watched various news programs and infomercials, and listened to Yahoo Music via my Yahoo Messenger.

For a little while, I surfed my Helium account and checked the stats there. I'm new to submitting to Helium and currently my ranking is not where it should be. According to a couple of the site's "channel stewards" I shouldn't be concerned with that so much; my quality will prove itself. That was reassuring and I felt a little inner elation for my efforts.

I plan to check on my Ciao account as well. It's also a current venture of mine and it's full of possibilities too. It focuses on product reviews and I feel it has intrinsic value to the Internet world.

Haircut? Got a helluva service at the barbershop today too. I am so impressed with the professionalism of "Mike" at the shop and his sharp skills behind the blades at Heavenly Cuts on North Tryon. As long as he keeps me tight, his business is alright!

Sounds a little Jesse Jacksonish!!! I am literally laughing-out-loud to myself. Anyhow, I am satisfied and that's all that matters anyway when it comes to me spending my hard earned money. Kapish!

Got more clipper spray for my clippers. This stuff is a must-have for maintaining your product and sanitary use as well. I believe in protecting my health at all costs, no need to skimp on your well being. (I wish my family members would utilize this thought process; that is, the ones that need to. You know who you are!)

That's just like wanting some Oreo's and buying an off brand. That flavor of the off brand does not satisfy your taste request. You basically "wasted" your time and money with that purchase. Now, had you just wanted a chocolate cookie with a cream filling; that off brand would have probably sufficed. You get the point.

I definitely believe I deserve the best of everything and I treat myself as such. I am not selfish in a negative or derogatory manner; but in a natural self-preservation type of way. I am selfish toward survival. It's still survival of the fittest out here!

And I have a weakness for taters, all of them! I love sweet potatoes and white potatoes basically anyway you prepare them. Baked, fried, stewed, creamed, sauteed, stuffed, dipped, grilled, whipped, pureed, and shredded! You do it, I'll eat it! They are truly my favorite foods!

Sorry about that rant. I said all of that to say, I had some potato wedges from the neighborhood spot today too. That's one of my favorite places to go and get some "banging spuds" when I get the urge. That's at least 4 times a week generally.

And Bojangles supplies my sweet potato weakness in a flaky, tasty pie crust fritter!

Give me my Dunkin Donuts coffee, my Bojangles's sweet potato pie and seasoned fries; I'm done and it's a wrap! For real, that simple. Happy and carefree with that combo for sure. How sad is that?

I had them all together today and that to me is productive. It is Friday, December 5 and unseasonably cold for this time of year here in Charlotte, but it is cool with me and I was productive.

It's still early, but it doesn't look like I'll be having Tequila Sunrise's tonight. Cuzzo called me in the middle of this post and said he was feeling under the weather. That usually means NO but it is still early. It's up in the air and I have nothing else to add to that.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

So Excited!

I am just so excited today. It is now about 5 days until my B-day and I can't contain myself. I am feeling very blessed and highly favored. I have so many wonderful things to be thankful for; outside of my life, health, and strength, I have a JOB!!!

The economy is so "Topsy turvy" and everyone is on edge. Unemployment is through the roof, literally, and folks' livelihoods are in jeopardy. I thank GOD for my good fortune.

I am also excited about our new retail manager. He is very observant, charismatic, and is a quick study. This means, he has got the routine of our chaotic kitchen and is ready to make some much needed adjustments!!! Bravo! It's been a long time coming for that.

I plan to assist "Boss Man" in any capacity necessary!

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Blissful Living and Eye Candy Too!!

Aha, yesterday was a beautiful day in Charlotte, NC even though the weather was rather dreary. It was so dang windy yesterday, I thought I was going to be blown away like "Mary Poppins". I mean it was really cold and windy, approximately gusting up to 45mph!

I couldn't believe the weather. It's the first of December and we aren't accustomed to that kind of wind. The meteorologist had predicted that the Gulf Stream shifted in cold Canadian winds to our usually mild area.

Boss has been rather calm the last couple of days. Thank GOD she is okay for now. It's unhealthy to be all stressed out. With that, it's some blissful living at the crib right now. I hope and pray it remains that way.

Ugg, her live-in boyfriend, has an awful toothache right now. His face is swollen and he has been pumping down Tylenol, Advil, Aleve, and even my old Hydrocodone's. I've been stressing to him that he needs to handle that, I feel for him. I do know about toothaches personally. I won't go there now! But anyway, he is a "grown ass man" and needs to really get that checked out.

Yuck mouth! He told me he has been having a problem with the same tooth for about two years now. I promptly informed him that he probably has problems with more than that one tooth now. It's on him.

And yes, Eye Candy should be our new Retail Manager's name. He is a very handsome, middle-aged, professional, intelligent gentleman. From first impressions, I think he will be a great asset and the change necessary to get our cafeteria back on track for Morrison's sake. It is truly out of hand in so many facets; and management bears a great deal of the blame. But for now, I'm concentrating on Eye Candy.

For starters, on his first day, he arrived early Monday morning and was still there at 7pm when 3rd shift arrived to work! He even stayed through our Line-Up meeting and came out on the floor and observed us at work! I was so impressed and so happy because I can already tell he is serious about his JOB! We have so many in various departments that are just riding the clock! They are sorry and good-for-nothing employees; and usually protected by favors. Once again, I'm not going there yet. Welcome aboard Sir Eye Candy!!!!

Monday, December 1, 2008

9 days until.......

My B-day dammit!!!! I'll be 35 years young folks and still ready to take on every contortionist around. Lol. I just have no idea what I will be doing for my birth day.

I am at a loss for what I want and what I want to do! I really don't have any ideas in mind. I'm simple and easy to please. I am the life of the party, but not a party-er if that makes any sense.

Maybe I'll be blogging since that is my new favorite pastime. I have so much shit in my head, I need to release some of it here maybe. I am an information overload about to trip my sanity breaker! I've got to figure it out......I guess more than likely I'll be blogging.

I have 3 days off from work for my B-day. I could very easily go back to the Woodshed at least one of those nights with Cuzzo and do some Tequila Sunrises'. I could surf the personals on Craigslist for a freaky little fling. I could go to the movies, there's a lot of shit I want to see. I could take a walk in the park, read "The Sweetest Taboo" by Risque--started months ago, or even visit some local attractions.

Actually all of that sounds cool I think, but not really the plan. I JUST DON'T KNOW YET!!!

I'm still working it out in my noggin of discord; I am switching to one accord immediately.
Chaos is no fun and very counter-productive. I know better and that's why I do better! It's really not as simple as it sounds.

GOD keeps me grounded. No one else, not me nor family; but GOD. My genuine belief, trust, and love for him is apparent to those that intimately know me and because of HIM, I am who I am. I am so happy I have been reborn and I have a foundation in my life. It gives me hope and purpose. I desire to be a positive impact on the greater society as a whole.

So, on my birthday what will I do? I got all philosophical there for a minute and almost lost my point of the post. Forgive me, fuses are going off and I just felt a power surge of thought at that moment and went for it. But I think I'll just focus on having a fun and productive day on December 9, 2008. I will be thanking GOD for life first, then health, strength, mental capacity, and all the most important stuff and then possibly a Tequila Sunrise to boot. Who knows, we'll just see when it gets here. Until then, I am just taking each day one at a time and not rushing time. It is precious and I realize that.

Apology with no words!!

Well, Boss bought me some wings from KFC!!! She replaced my wings from the other night. They were not the same, but the barbecue wings from KFC are pretty damn good too. She also bought me some "tater wedges" since I just love taters.

Now, I was happy for the wings and taters but they are not the same. I look at the whole situation as a peace offering of sorts.

My sister, Boss, has a difficult time with expressing her wrongs and shortcomings. She usually will just try to do something nice to save her face! She doesn't say "I'm Sorry" ever, but will treat you as if she was. Hard to believe? It's true and it's her prerogative.

I accepted the chow and that's all that matters. I was reimbursed somewhat, so I'll go with the flow. Thanks Boss.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

"Munchies" of the Selfish

Last night, I ordered from my favorite late night "munchie" spot, Pizza Hut online via my laptop. I just love the ease of surfing online and creating my order, then completing the order and waiting in anticipation.

Sounds a little wimpy I know, but the simplicity of technology is so convenient. I'm currently not driving, so I needed delivery for one, and my favorite fastfood for two. I ordered a personal pan Veggie Lover's pizza and 10 honey-barbecued crispy wings.

How about the order was more than 45 minutes late, from my projected delivery time! Also, the driver stated that they were out of personal pans so they made me a medium pizza instead. I was happy with the upgrade, but my stomach was now in knots and Cuzzo had arrived to take me out for awhile.

I looked at the wings, they looked scrumptious and they were smelling delicious. The pizza was a little cool, but it was flavorful and tasty. Cuzzo helped me finish it off and surfed the 'net' until we decided to leave.

In the meantime, my wings were in the fridge waiting to soak up some Tequila Sunrise when I returned.

My housemate, Boss, my sister, texted me and asked for 5 of my wings! Now damn! I mean, I could have said NO but I didn't. I was trying, like I always do, to be thoughtful and sharing. I texted her back yes.

I didn't think about it again until around 1pm when I started getting ready for the Carolina Panthers and Green Bay Packers game. I went to the fridge and took out my wings. I opened the box and there were only 4 wings left! I immediately asked Boss how many wings she got. She said she only got 5 like she asked for and didn't notice how many were left.

Hmmmm. Now that's suspect to me. I mean, she had to notice how many were left as she was getting her 5!!!

In my opinion, that was just DAMN IGNORANT AND SELFISH!!!! She didn't spend a damn dime on the food, and yet takes over half. If there were only 9 wings, she should have only taken 4. Let me know what you think, I'm so over it now. I know she asked for 5, but really people, common sense should have kicked in and said "Just get 4 girl!"

To me, if you contribute; you consume. Not the other way around.

I am....Sasha Fierce by Beyonce

It's Saturday night, November 29th, 2008 and I just got in. Me and Cuzzo just got back from the Woodshed bar off I-85 and I'm reflecting on the evening. We were listening to the new Beyonce album "I am...Sasha Fierce". I was really vibeing to the "slow" disc and feeling my diva supreme. To me, all of the ballads are exceptional. I especially like "Broken-Hearted Girl" and "Ave Maria". That "Ave Maria" had my drunk ass crying tonight! It really shows the range of emotion that Ms. B can deliver and shows how she has evolved as an entertainer to be reckoned with. Mrs. Carter has truly delivered a gem of musical delight once again.

I was feeling rather nonchalant today. It's rainy here in Charlotte and I was feeling the blues basically. I've been in the middle of some serious "bull shit" personally the past few weeks. My sister whom I share a house with is literally going insane.

I must admit that I think our family has a prevalence of mental illness in our genes. I am aware of a number of family members that are currently on prescription meds for their mental well being. I hate to admit it, but it's a fact that most of our society has some form of mental illness!

Anyway, the bar was boring and tired. The music was so eclectic, you couldn't even think of getting in a groove. They were playing Christmas music in the bar; I don't think that is happening on the radio yet. I mean, Thanksgiving was only a couple of days ago!

Anyway, me and Cuzzo downed a few Tequila Sunrises and tried to have a good time. I must admit again, I am buzzed and very disappointed in the night. The nightlife here in Charlotte is really meager at best. Weather really has nothing to do with it.

But Beyonce gave me some refreshment. She pipes out her soul in her lyrics and the arrangements are nothing less than stellar, as usual. I just love this diva-maestro extraordinaire!

"Single Ladies(Put a ring on it)" is hot as hell to me! That video is the bomb and B is the truth. I can see Sasha coming out in the video. If u pay attention to the side profile of B, it's as if her face changes before your very eyes! Check it out...I'm serious, it was a little freaky the first time I noticed it. It makes me wonder how many takes of that video she did. Sasha makes her debut and stands out in the video!

My sister, the one I share a crib with, doesn't really care for Beyonce. She insists that B has had some cosmetic surgery. I've told her over and over that that is just hearsay. Makeup can really change your appearance if applied correctly. I think B has the best on her team and that's why it appears to some that she has been cosmetically altered.

I don't buy it for one second. I know Beyonce has personal trainers, chefs, and stuff; and therefore that's why she looks so great. Some people will always be haters. I told my sister this, and she got mad!

Talk about simple minded.

Anyway, "I am..Sasha Fierce" rocks on many levels for me. I was needing some stimulation, the bar was not doing it for me. Cuzzo also likes "Halo" and "Disappear". To me they are all hits. As for the up tempo stuff, it's alright. I usually gravitate to ballads by nature anyway. I just can relate to the tone and it is reminiscent of my personality.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Another Change?

On Monday, December 1st, 2008 we are getting a new Retail Manager at my job. Currently, the position has been basically unnecessary because all the supervisors have had to perform the duties.

I did forget to say our manager left for another position in another part of the state and his assistant was not offered his spot. She has become very nonchalant at the workplace and is now openly discussing her plans to find another job. Personally, I don't think that is very professional, but to each its own.

Usually she is quite reserved and steady. Obviously the overlook has been taken personally and not from a business perspective. I can't believe her!

Friday, November 28, 2008

A Ramble of Sorts on Everything and Nothing

I've always wanted to write. My earliest memories are of me sitting in a corner with a tablet and pencil; doodling, and just writing down whatever came to mind. I just felt a need to express myself and get my feelings off my chest. I've found most people can respect and accept honesty if it's given at the onset! Otherwise, you don't have any credibility or respect. That's always been my mantra: "Keep it Real, Keep it Honest." Thus, those of you that follow my ensuing posts will find to be my trademark and hopefully enjoy my musings.

I am somewhat depressed right now. My maternal grandmother passed around this time last year. Actually, the Sunday before Thanksgiving 2007. Me and both my sisters were on our way home to visit grandma, ma, and pops and attend church services.

When we topped the hill coming into Harlem Heights and came within view my parents' house, we saw an ambulance sitting in the yard! Immediately red flags went off in my head and I knew that my gut feeling was indeed right; granny had passed on!

I was so distraught and just numb to the whole turn of events. I did not want to accept the fact that my grandma was no longer suffering and was now with GOD. I was not ready to let her go and still to this day, a year later, I am still so saddened and hurt by the whole thing.

She loved me like no other person in this world, even more than my mom in my opinion. She accepted me wholeheartedly and without fail completely from my birth. She was my rock and my best friend. She understood me and loved me unconditionally. She made me feel comfortable in my own skin and she would not allow anyone to make me feel any different in her presence.

I so dearly miss her beautiful soul and inspiring spirit. She was always upbeat and passing out pleasantries to everyone around. She always wanted to make others feel good about themselves. She was the p0ssitivity the whole family needed and the glue that held it together.

That just pisses me off too! Yesterday, November 27,2008, Thanksgiving Day we could not get together for a simple family meal. My mother, my auntie, and two of the four uncles were able to spend a little time together yesterday. I was happy for that, but the vibe just wasn't the same with Ophelia!

I found myself overcome with a heavy heart and I shed many tears in the midst of my family. They were all eating and socializing and I was on my mom's black leather sectional boohooing like a baby. I could not control myself, I was hurting all alone in a house full of people. I'm not mad or upset, but just bewildered by it. A couple of folks asked me if I was ok, but that was about it. Wow, but put the shoe on another foot. I would have been there to make sure my peeps was really good emotionally because everyone deals with loss differently. We as family are supposed to make sure all is good with each other. Granny's gone now and that's not happening no more.

When Ophelia B. Tyson was alive and well our family was the shit! She was always a lady, a servant of GOD, a community leader and organizer, a model citizen. When my granddaddy died, she basically completely dedicated her life to her family. Yes her family, she never remarried or really dated. She was dedicated to our families livelihood at all times. I was taking notes all the time, obviously I was the only one. She would be disappointed with that I know. She set a better example than what we are portraying as a whole. Anyway, that's another reason why I miss her and my heart is a little heavy for selfish reasons. I truly thank GOD for allowing her to rest now. She deserves a break from taking care of everybody else.

The food was okay on turkey day too. I really enjoyed my auntie's potato salad, my moma's greens, mac n cheese, and dressing and my sisters' numerous contributions as well. Everyone else just basically came by and ate. I made two pound cakes from scratch for our family. I made a sour cream pound cake and an orange creme pound cake. Everyone really seemed to enjoy them and I was glad. That was one of the biggest highlights for me because I felt my granny's presence when I was baking. She was the bomb in the kitchen until her health failed. I remember always watching her at work in the kitchen and taking mental notes about recipes and such. I love preparing food for others and have been told that I put "love" in my food because of the pleasantness of my preparations, just like her.

I know where the ability and skill came from; grandma. She was a natural teacher. But she was also so humble and meek. She was a strict disciplinarian and lover of GOD and instilled this in her children and grandchildren and all the neighborhood kids too. She was the truth, not perfect; but the truth. I miss you sweetie, and I thank you for all your life lessons. I know you are resting now and I want to make you proud. I just need your guidance spiritually to keep me on the straight and narrow because it's so easy to stray and lose sight of the matter at hand.