this is me

Anybody still here?

2007-04-11T10:43:00.000-05:00

Ummm, this is way late, but just in case you didn't know, I'm now over on Vox.

http://www.quietstorm.vox.com

One more thing

2006-08-16T12:37:00.000-05:00

I know I just posted, but Nikki’s post about old men trying to dress young has brought to the forefront something that’s been irking the hell out of me and I need to express it. My coworker is normally a wig wearer and that’s all good. However, it must have gotten too hot for her, because for the past few weeks she’s been wearing her hair out and in cornrows. Now I’m all for natural hair, I have locs myself, but homegirl is about 60 or so with about 5 cornrows covering her head in a shade of used-to-be-red-but-is-now-gray. And you know those women who really don’t have enough hair, but insist on creating a ponytail and end up with about an inch of hair sticking straight out? Yeah, that’s her. It’s like a car accident; I can’t help but to stare at it every time she walks past me. Somebody help!

Changes

2006-08-16T11:54:00.000-05:00

Man, it has really been a long time since I posted something hasn’t it? I can’t say I’ve ever been a regular poster, but this was a bit much and I’ll try to do better.
Now, what’s been going on with me these past few months? Well some personnel changes have occurred in the office resulting in some promotional opportunities and guess who seized the opportunity? That’s right, yours truly is now a manager/team lead! Not much difference in pay right now, but more responsibility and the chance to gain some managerial experience in a familiar environment.
I’m so an in-the-background type of person and started not to even apply for the position, but I couldn’t justify not taking the risk. So here I am, and things are going pretty well so far. The real challenge will come in the second half of the fiscal year, which will require some public speaking, but by then we’ll entering into a process of which I’m intimately familiar so I should be ok. In the meanwhile I just keep praying for guidance and keep asking questions so I’m not caught in any situation unprepared.

Hmm, what else? Well, a few of my circle went to Vegas to celebrate a friend’s birthday. An excellent time was had by all. But I will say that July was probably not the best time to hit Vegas. We were there while they were reaching record high temperatures so were more than a little crispy upon our return. Once you hit 116° it doesn’t matter if it’s dry heat or not, get ready to burn. I guess we broke their played out cardinal rule, cause we took many pictures, but this outing really did need to be commemorated. Next stop, Chicago for mine and another friend’s birthday.
Well, I think that’s about all I have for the moment…. Until next time.

2006-04-11T08:36:00.000-05:00

With all the technology we're supposed to have these days, why does it take so long to get stuff done? I'm at the tail end of a marathon-like work project. What normally took a few Saturdays and maybe a Sunday to accomplish a couple of years ago, now takes those same days and some overnight stays to do. This is soo not cool. We have a budget to present Wednesday and because of the proprietary (sp?) nature of the information, we have to generate the information, print it and bind the 300+ documents ourselves. All of this wouldn't be so bad if I didn't feel like we were being kept in the dark about the game plan. You cannot have a bunch of black folks held up at work into the wee hours of the night and give no information about when they can go home. What's the big deal? If you have print jobs to do and it's going to take hours before they're done, why am I still here? Man, I was cussing all kind of folks out last night....in my mind. I know I get cranky when I'm tired, so day 4 of late nights is no time to play with my time. Know what I'm saying?
But, I can't complain too much. I'm in an automobile town which means there's a lot of people out of work and more losing their jobs every day. So, as I sit here trying to remain upright and coherent, I thank God I'm still gainfully employed and think about the beautifulness that will be my next paycheck (overtime baby!)

2006-04-03T13:19:00.000-05:00

Ever feel like you should be doing something else with your life, but have no clue what it is? That's me right about now. In the meanwhile, I remain still and try to do the best I can in the space I'm in.

In other news, I went to a "wine tasting" Friday night at my girl's house. The quotes are necessary because there was no resident expert to tell us what we were tasting, so it was really more of a wine drinking, which is a whole nother type of shindig.

One day I'm going to be like BruthaCode and just hop on a plane and travel cause I got it like that. In the meanwhile, my summer travel plans include Mackinac ( a small island in Michigan) and Vancouver, Canada for a family reunion (not mine). One day....

Well, just wanted to come out of lurk mode and drop a little something so you'd know I didn't disappear.

Are you ready for some football?

2006-01-27T18:09:00.000-05:00

Super Bowl XL is just over a week away. Detroit is in a frenzy to finish up the last clean-up/repair/cover-up efforts before being viewed by hundreds of thousands in person and millions on TV. The one year we try to use Michigan's crazy weather to our advantage through the "Winter Blast" complete with snow hill and dog sledding, we get almost Spring-like tempatures. So, as I sit in my office, I get a view of the snow machines working overtime to create enough of the white stuff to get us through next week.
I guess it's pretty exciting. I just started watching football a couple of seasons ago, so I know the very basics. But, I was seriously slipping this season and didn't know who the final two teams were until the last minute. The best part of this whole thing is Jerome Bettis. The hometown boy in what is probably his last season, gets to end his career by going to the Super Bowl. Is that a great way to go out or what? Now all he has to do is win. I'll probably be at home since downtown Detroit is on lock (no parking, hell no driving down many of the streets), but I'll be somewhere rooting for the Steelers. Where will you be?

2006-01-26T12:27:00.000-05:00

I just thought this was funny...

You Are 20% Abnormal

You are at low risk for being a psychopath. It is unlikely that you have no soul.

You are at low risk for having a borderline personality. It is unlikely that you are a chaotic mess.

You are at low risk for having a narcissistic personality. It is unlikely that you are in love with your own reflection.

You are at medium risk for having a social phobia. It is somewhat likely that you feel most comfortable in your mom's basement.

You are at low risk for obsessive compulsive disorder. It is unlikely that you are addicted to hand sanitizer.

How Abnormal Are You?

That's My Song!

2006-01-26T12:21:00.000-05:00

I love blogthings! This was inspired by X's porn star quiz.

Your Stipper Song Is

I'm a Slave 4 U by Britney Spears

"I'm a slave for you. I cannot hold it; I cannot control it.

I'm a slave for you. I won't deny it; I'm not trying to hide it."

You may seem shy, but you can let your wild side out when you want to!

What Song Should You Strip To?

Still Around

2006-01-05T08:15:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

My last post date was getting farther and farther away, so I thought I'd drop a little something to show that I am still around.

My new year's experience was pretty cool. Our choir had to sing for watch night service. That was my first time spending new year's eve at church and it's definitely something I wouldn't mind doing again. I left there about 1am and a few of us went over a friend's house where her fiance was cooking...like a full soul food meal...in the middle of the night. I must say though, that chicken and greens hit the spot. Thanks JLC!

I don't usually make resolutions, but I recognize that some things have to change in the '06. So some of my goals are to improve my time management skills - I really should be able to get more done in my day, get healthier - make better food choices, exercise regularly, you know the usual. Lastly, develop my spiritual relationship with God - study more, pray more, trust more.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-22T08:45:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a good holiday weekend. I'll be making thanksgiving dinner for the first time, so I'm pretty excited. My menu:

Roast turkey
greens (collard)
garlic mashed potatoes
dressing
rolls
tomato soup cake (think carrot cake w/o the carrots)
I'm going to hit my momma up for some sweet potato pie

So there you have it; family, food, netflix...the perfect thanksgiving.

Enjoy!

2005-10-31T16:19:00.000-05:00

Thanks Singing...

You are Flat Sandals

Casual yet flirty

You look great in a simple top and jeans

Your look is approchable and cute!

What Kind of Sandal Are You?

Viva La Meme!

2005-10-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

Call me butta baby, cause I'm on a roll! (Jamie Foxx)...

Your IQ Is 120

Your Logical Intelligence is Below Average

Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius

Your Mathematical Intelligence is Exceptional

Your General Knowledge is Above Average

A Quick and Dirty IQ Test

How Rude!

2005-10-20T14:29:00.000-05:00

Today we have to facilitate a public budget meeting being held at a church on the eastside. It's something that's done every year before budget season starts in an attempt to get the public's list of service priorities.
Anyway, because the meetings are in the evenings, our work schedules shift from the normal 9-5 to 12:30-8:30. I was determined to be productive today, so I got up and did some grocery shopping. Of course, that took longer than I expected so I still ended up rushing to get to work.
Now, I don't know how it is for you, but city employees that work downtown, don't have parking near the building unless they pay something crazy like $150/month. I park far enough away that I need to either catch a shuttle or the People Mover (read: very limited rail system). Because we're having massive cut backs due to our financial situation, no shuttles run between 10am and 3pm (so if you have an emergency during those hours, you better get to running). I'm moving because I'm about to be late and I still need to catch the People Mover. All is cool as I pay my fair and get on. I get off at my stop and go into the building. As I'm going through the doors, I notice there are 2 men behind me so while I don't stand there until they go through, I do hold the door as I'm rounding the corner to get to the escalators. As I'm going downstairs, I am subjected to the following conversation:

Man behind me: I hope the next time someone wants to open the door from you, they don't!

Me: (looking back like wtf?) What are you talking about?

MBM: you saw us and you just let the door go!

Me: No I didn't. I held it until I saw the two of you grab the handle.

MBM: Yes you did, you let the door go.

Me: Well, that's your opinion.

MBM: And my opinion is right, cause I know what I saw! You just rude.

Me: (facing forward, as I am now done with this conversation)

MBM: You're rude and wish you bad luck for the rest of the day.

Me: (incredulous) How're you going to call me rude and then wish me bad luck! You're being rude!

MBM: I do! I wish you bad luck!

Me: (shaking my head as I hightail it to the office)

If this whole conversation wasn't funny in a I-can't-believe-this-is-happening kind of way, I might have been a little offended.

2005-10-17T12:55:00.000-05:00

One of these days, I'm going to have an actual post. Until then....

You are Psalms.

Which book of the Bible are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Thanks Singing.

Hmmm...

2005-09-20T09:41:00.000-05:00

I got this from ManNMotion's blog:

You are an assassin.
That means you are a professional and do your
job without mixing any emotions in it. In your
life you have probably been hurt many times and
have gotten some mental scars. This results in
you being distant from people. Though many
think that you are evil, you are not. What you
really are is a person, trying to forget your
pain and past. You are the person who never
seems to care and that is why being an assassin
fits you good. Atleast, that's what people
think. Even if you don't care that much for
your victims, you still have the ability to
care and to generally feel. It is not lost,
just a little forgotten. In crowds you tend to
not get to noticed, and dress in black or other
discrete colours. You don't being in the
spotlight and wish people would just leave you
alone. But once you do get close to someone you
have a hard time letting go and get real down
if you lose him/her.

Main weapon: Sniper
Quote: "The walls we build around
us to keep out the sadness also keep out the
joy" -Jim Rohn
Facial expression: Narrowed eyes

What Type of Killer Are You? [cool pictures]
brought to you by Quizilla

Strange, huh?

2005-09-15T13:31:00.000-05:00

I got this email from my sister today.I am now a little disturbed...

I had an odd dream about you this morning. I hadn't dreamt the whole night, then the alarm went off at 6am. I cutit off and got back in the bed and in that 45 minutes I had a dream withyou in it. And let me tell you.... Usually you are the last thing on mymind at 6am in the morning :)....

I dreamt I stopped my mommy's house and she looked like she just woke up and it was in the middle of the day and she still had her robe on. ( I haven't seen her in a robe since they moved). She wasn't too chatty, so I thought I would go by your house to see what you were doing. When I got there you were looking at me like " what are you doing here"(because I don't really stop by, not because you didn't want to see me)... You looked like you were about to leave the house in a little while. (as always. I usually just catch you before you are going somewhere) We get to chit chatting and I mentioned that I saw mommy and you asked me if she told me what happened?
I said, "no, what happened ?"

You tell me that you had this throbbing pain in the back of your neck for a couple of days, so you went to the hospital.They tell you, you had a baby in your tubes and it was pushing on your spine that's what was causing the head aches. The baby has been stuck there for two years. You had surgery and mommy was there. (all in onenight...it's a dream) You were telling me how upset mommy was that it all happen, for obvious reasons but also because she really would have liked to have a grandbaby. Which struck me as odd because they have never said anything to me about grandchildren. Then you were getting your keys like you were about to hit the streets & go out to the movies or something ( after just having surgery last night) and I give you a hug cause I'm going to walk out with you and you start crying. I don't know if you were crying because of the ordeal or because you might have wanted the baby too.... I don't know...

Then I woke up.....

Reba Macintyre was in my dream too..... strange

It's a Holiday!

2005-09-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a safe, fun holiday weekend, especially those bloggers kickin' it in New York (have a birthday drink for me!!).

Please continue to pray for everyone affected by Katrina (I can tell from read your blogs that this is already done)

P.S. I am open to all birthday wishes, gifts, declarations of love and devotion during the entire month of September! Don't be shy now!! ; )

4 days til my birthday! (oh yeah, the holiday too.)

2005-08-23T11:48:00.000-05:00

I got this from cocoabutterfly...

Your name spelled backwards. aila
Where were your parents born? Mother: Detroit, Father: Georgia
What is the last thing you downloaded onto your computer? some clip art for a miscellaneous project
What’s your favourite restaurant? Don't really eat out much, so probably something casual like Max & Erma's
Last time you swam in a pool? Last week at the hotel pool.
Have you ever been in a school play? Yup, I think it was 5th grade in a play about Noah's Ark (I went to a Lutheran school)
How many kids do you want? Three
Type of music you dislike most? Heavy metal - headbanger type music
Are you registered to vote? Yes.
Do you have cable? Unfortunately not
Have you ever ridden on a moped? Nope, been on a motorcycle though
Ever prank call anybody? Yeah, a couple of radio stations in my youth
Ever get a parking ticket? yeah
Would you go bungee jumping or sky diving? I would do a tandem sky dive
Furthest place you ever traveled. Negril, Jamaica
Do you have a garden? no
What’s your favorite comic strip? Boon.docks
Do you really know all the words to your national anthem? yes
Bath or Shower, morning or night? Shower, both depending on my laziness
Best movie you’ve seen in the past month? Wedding Crashers is the only one I've seen all month. It was pretty funny.
Favorite pizza topping? Good ole pepperoni
Chips or popcorn? Chips
What color lipstick do you usually wear? I usually wear lipgloss. Currently MAC Instant Gold
Have you ever smoked peanut shells? What? Is this a trick question? No
Have you ever been in a beauty pageant? No. I almost entered Mo'nique's pageant, but chickened out.
What did you wear today? Green v-neck blouse and black slacks. No inspiration today...
Orange Juice or apple? Apple
Who was the last person you went out to dinner with and where did you dine? McBurrows family at Tony Roma's
Favorite type chocolate bar? snickers satisfies.
When was the last time you voted at the polls? August 2 at the local primary
Last time you ate a homegrown tomato? Whoo, it's been years.
Have you ever won a trophy? No trophies. Won a couple of ribbons though: 2nd place in high school for photography, 1st place in elementary school - a bell choir competition (those were some rough and tumble days, hunh?)
Are you a good cook? I'm going to have to say no as I rarely cook.
Do you know how to pump your own gas? Yeah
Ever order an article from an infomercial? Yup. Tae-bo tapes. Couldn't tell you where they were now.
Sprite or 7-up? Sprite
Have you ever had to wear a uniform to work? Does a red vest count?
Last thing you bought at a pharmacy? some shower gel, cotton balls, toothbrush and some twizzlers.
Ever throw up in public? No
Would you prefer being a millionaire or find true love? Hmmm...hard question at the present time. Ultimately, I'll say true love.
Do you believe in love at first sight? No
What was your last phone conversation about? A friend's crush on a guy being ended with the knowledge of a girlfriend.
Ever call a 1-900 number? Nope
Can ex’s be friends? Yes.
Who was the last person you visited in a hospital? My sister, a couple of years ago.
Did you have a lot of hair when you were a baby? I'm told that my hair connected from my eyebrows up as a newborn. Thankfully, there are no pictures.
What message is on your answering machine? The automated one that came with the phone.
What was the name of your first pet? Malcolm, my little mutt. I have a picture of me at about 3 or 4yrs. old in an Elmira-like pose (anyone remember TinyToon Adventures?) trying to lift the dog up by the neck.
What is in your purse? wallet, checkbook, phone, lipgloss, chapstick, keys, gum, change purse, a couple check stubs, mints, dental floss, lotion, lip liner, headband.
Favorite thing to do before bedtime? read. boring, I know.
What is one thing you are grateful for today? Life and it's potential.

Quickly...

2005-08-22T12:49:00.000-05:00

I made it back from Savannah last week! A great time was had by all...Savannah is a beautiful little town. Hot and riddled with roaches, but beautiful. We served as our own traveling club as tourist season was over, so if a club was jumping, it was because we filled it. We spent time at the beach getting wiped out by waves and turning a few shades darker and we took over the De.Soto Hil.ton for a few days probably making a few people think "they really do all know each other".

I've noticed over the years that my birthday tends to serve as my new year (i.e. time to make resolutions, new beginnings, etc.) It's not always deep, in the past it's been a fairly drastic haircut or color. I started my locks this time 2 years ago, decided to actively engage in losing weight last year. This year is no different. I had been thinking about a nose piercing for some time now and decided to go ahead and do it this past weekend. Once it heals and stops crusting over, I'm sure it'll be cute, lol (gross, I know).

Speaking of birthdays, there seems to be quite a few taking place around my own (Labor Day!!), so while I don't have any specific plans, my calendar for the first week in September is filling up quick! I couldn't be happier and I plan to enjoy every minute of it.

Well, that's all I have for now. check ya later!

Family Reunion

2005-08-10T10:32:00.000-05:00

Not mine, but two very good friends'. So today is my last day of work until next Thursday (yeah they get down like that!). We leave for Cleveland to pick up some more family members, then we're on our way to Rochelle and Savannah, GA. I can't tell you the last time my family had a reunion and we've never had reunions like this (i.e. multiple days of events planned, etc.) so I'm looking forward to being a McB for the week.

So, until I return...

2005-08-09T08:58:00.000-05:00

I don't remember when I first became aware of it. Maybe the dentist's office or the home of one of my parent's friends. There were always a few to choose from, most of them very much dated but still entertaining. Then they became a presence in our home. The whole family was covered...Ebony, Jet and Ebony Jr. (anybody remember those?). This family of magazines served as a common link to many black people back in the day. As time went on, Ebony Jr. faded out and I became less enamored with the quality of Ebony. You can find me reading a Jet every so often to see which couples made the wedding pages and who they found to be the "beauty of the week". But although these publications don't have the prominence in my home that they used to, they still have a place in my heart. Ebony started a legacy in the black community and put the issues that affected and concerned us in the forefront. Its founder will be truly missed.

John H. Johnson, 1918 - 2005

2005-08-01T11:50:00.000-05:00

I know, I know it's been a loooong time since I last posted. I'm actually pleasantly surprised that people read this blog, it seems so boring to me compared with some of you alls daily entries that I just read yours instead of writing in my own. But, I'm going to attempt to do better. With that said, here's an update on what's going on in my world.

The House

Unfortunately, I will not be buying my parent's house. It would technically have been doable, but I felt it would have been too much of a squeeze on my finances. Home ownership is still definitely a goal of mine, but I don't want to spend my time praying that nothing goes wrong 'cause I don't know if I'd be able to get anything fixed. And I don't know how costs are in your neck of the woods, but property taxes and insurance in the city are too high for the services we receive and seem to be increasing everytime I look up. When the house sells, I'm moving out of the city limits. I love my people, but the apartment I'm looking at is reasonably priced and my car insurance will be half - I say HALF - what I'm paying now. I will learn to love the commute.
edited to add: Someone sent me this article today. Damn shame.
In the meanwhile, they've asked me to stay in the house until it's sold which is turning out to be a pain in my ass. Sure it's cheaper than renting right now, but having the parents pop up at all hours of the day and then getting mad at me because it's taking longer than they expected to empty the house and I may or may not be around to help, is no.fun.at.all. Somebody should have told them that it may take more than a few weeks to move 35 years worth of stuff. Especially when you have to do it like we do around these parts: move the largest load in the dead of night or the butt crack of dawn so the whole neighborhood doesn't find out that you're leaving. They have some interested parties already and the house isn't on the market yet. They're hoping to have the house sold soon, so it shouldn't be too much longer before this experience is finished.
So, in essence, I was disappointed but I refuse to force anything to happen and look forward to having a place that is completely mine some day in the future.

Work

I'm still here, dealing with the fallout of the layoffs which took place July 1. I hate to see people lose their jobs, but I'm amazed that people are so shocked and horrified that we're having them even in the midst of all these layoffs around the country. I guess folks don't follow the connection: If you live or work in the city and pay city taxes, our major source of income, then lose your job that means the city would soon be experiencing financial troubles, right? Right. Add reduced income to increased personnel and operating expenses and you now have our current situation. Technically, we got off ok considering less than 5% of our employees were laid off, but in a town where city employee layoffs are rare, it's not going over well at all.
On a related note, our primary election is tomorrow. We have some crazy number of people running for the offices of Mayor, City Council, City Clerk and School Board and tomorrow we whittle down the list. I'm finding it very interesting to run into people in the halls thinking, there is no way in hell I'm voting you back in here, while saying "Enjoy the rest of your day!" Seriously though, we need some new blood. I'm just praying that people, in their haste to get the incumbents out, don't pick just any name as a replacement. Here's my hope that we actually research our choices before we hit the polls.

Other Randomness

I was a bridesmaid in one of my dearest friends' wedding Saturday, July 16th. It was so beautiful and emotional. I wish them many happy years together. That was the first and last time I will be a bridesmaid. Although I will say that there were about six different receptions going on at the hall she chose (Laurel Manor for those familiar with the area) and we were by far the best looking bridal party there (who me, biased?).

I have learned that bridal showers are bridal showers no matter who they're for. My loctitian and her partner are having a committment ceremony this weekend and the bridal shower was last weekend. I don't know what I was expecting...more flavor or something. But with the exception of a reading of lesbian erotic poetry, it was the same old bridal shower activities. I'm not really one for shower games, but it was good to see her happily surrounded by all her friends.

I hosted our monthly ladies night out this past Friday. About 10 of us hung out at the house watching Hitch and Jamie Foxx stand up; eating, drinking and clowning each other. A great time was had by all. I'm a natural worrier and a master procrastinator, so I was pleased with the outcome.

In 35 days (Labor Day), I will be one year wiser and more beautiful : ) No special plans as of yet, just thought I'd put that out there in case someone wanted to do anything special for me (hint, hint).

untitled

2005-06-22T11:33:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a long time since I last posted...

I'm in the process of a life changing event...that's right, homeownership. I've always been on my own special time schedule, so by many people's standards I'm a little late to the game. But, I'm currently working some numbers, practicing my negotiation skills and doing a whole lot of praying and pretty soon you may be reading the blog of a first time homeowner!

Send up a prayer for me...

GO PISTONS!!!

short and sweet

2005-06-07T09:05:00.000-05:00

They had me biting my nails til the end, but...

THE BALL DON'T LIE, BABY!!!

Detroit Pistons are now in the Finals!

Do or Die

2005-06-06T08:40:00.000-05:00

Today is a day of big decisions...

This is it. Veto override. Council vs. Mayor. Council accuses the Mayor of presenting a budget full of fantasy. Mayor accuses Council of suggesting changes that will endanger public safety. Both budgets address a $300M deficit. One with the layoff of approx. 600 police officers and 130 fire fighters. The other with concessions that have yet to be approved by unions. What will be the final outcome?

This is it. Game 7. Pistons at Miami. The end of this evening will either bring great joy/relief or amazing discontent. Last year's win will either be deemed luck/ a fluke or the beginnings of a new reign. Will you be watching?

It's Friday!!!

2005-06-03T13:45:00.000-05:00

You ever have one of those days when you feel inexplicably awesome? Well, today is that day! I don't know where this feeling came from, but who am I to complain? I feel great and I'm going to roll with it.

Tonight is my circle's monthly Ladies Night Out. So Michelle, our resident lush is hosting this evening's festivities and I'm ready to kick it. Right now I'm pondering my drink of choice (Bailey's & vodka, parrot bay & pineapple/orange juice, or my usual vodka gimlet?) Ooh, someone told me French Connections were good (Hennessy & Grand Marnier), but I have yet to try one. It's a little too expensive at the bar for the kid ($15). I could make my own though. hmm...

where was I? Oh yes, LNO...

Michelle has designated tonight old school video and board games night. Pacman, asteroids, frogger and what ever board games she has will be played tonight. She also mentioned something about a kareoke machine, so this should prove interesting.

Tomorrow night is a friend's birthday party at Yesterday's. That place has never been my spot (I don't club much), but that's where she wants to go, so cool, I'm down. It's not so much the location as the group of friends that makes the evening so I look forward to hanging out with everyone.

Well guys, enjoy your weekend!

Who's the Master?!

2005-05-31T13:50:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted in a while...nothing exciting is really going on in my world right now. I did have a cool holiday weekend. Went out on Friday night and saw some sights...Usher wanna-be's, assorted people trying to squeeze themselves in their little sister's clothes, and I swear I saw Sho' Nuff from the Last Dragon! All this on the first holiday of the summer! Now I know all those "let's go over the summer clothing rules" emails have been circulating over the past few weeks. When are people going to take heed to the message! I need to start walking around with my camera cause there are going to be some sights to behold, I can feel it!
The rest of the weekend I basically just vegetated. I'm in a book club, so I was reading our June book, "Genevieve" by Eric Jerome Dickey, went to church on Sunday and saw my girl perform (she's a Christian comedian. Great job JC! I saw people wiping tears away, they were laughing so hard!) Monday, I went to see Star Wars, episode III. Throw in some bbq eating and some pretty cool weather and you have my weekend in a nutshell.

In other news...

I may or may not be in Chicago in July. I love my friends, but we're operating on some serious CP time here. We decided to go to Chicago months ago...We have yet to get someplace to stay. JC is the planner and I've asked for an update and was told that she was working on it...I'm not asking again. One, because I don't want to seem like a pest and two, should I really have to keep asking a grown ass person about the status of the trip? Right...so while I'd still be excited to go, I'm slipping into a f - it kind of mood.

Well, this was short and sweet. I'll try to post more often in the future.

"Safe"...for now

2005-05-23T12:12:00.000-05:00

Well, upon receiving a letter from our Director outlining the effects Council's proposed cuts would have on our department, they decided not only to rescind their cut proposal, but to actually add money back to our budget. So, it looks like I'm safe for right now. The question is, do I really want to stay? There are still many variables to this budget that have not been resolved and the process won't be over until July 1, so bottom line is I'm still going to be on the look out for other opportunities.

In other news, it looks like the DC Blogger event was a blowout! I'm glad everyone had such a great time. I haven't given my info to Keish yet, b/c we are operating on some serious CP time over here and I don't have any details, but I'm excited (and a little scared) about how it's going to go down in Chicago!

Welp, I guess I'll get back to work. I'm trying to focus, but it's so hard! It's Monday, raining, and I have the office to myself for the whole week. Not a good combination...

Virgo

2005-05-20T10:55:00.000-05:00

I recently read Ms. Thing's post regarding her astrological profile and was intrigued. I am by no means the type of person that needs to read my horoscope before I can start my day, but I've always found the whole science of astrology interesting. I enjoy reading horoscopes just to see how close/not close they are to how I view my life. So, I clicked on the link Ms. Thing provided and did my own astrological profile. Thanks

First Name: mellow
Sun Sign: Virgo
Rising Sign: Taurus
Life Path Number: 7
Chinese Sign: Ox

Strengths:Analytic, competent, devoted, diligent, efficient, focused, level-headed, principled, reliable, systematic

Weaknesses:Critical, pedantic, pessimistic, petty, perfectionistic, prudish, reserved, suspicious, schoolmasterly, timid

As the sixth sign of the zodiac, you represent purity, perfection, and practicality. Virgos put things in order to unify the world. Mercury, the planet of mental and intellectual principles, and ruler of Virgo, makes you a methodical and organized worker who brings an analytical, systematic approach to all facets of life. You project a serious image overall, one only strengthened by your problem-solving skills and fastidious refinement. Yours is the second of the earth signs, which makes you a dependable, responsible individual. You are reserved and modest in your behavior, and discriminating in your choices. You connect strongly to Mother Earth, and are therefore extremely health-conscious.Virgo rules the sixth house of the horoscope, associated with the quality of work. Furthermore, this sector of the chart shows how you analyze, deal with, and communicate details. The sixth house also involves health matters in general. Virgo's mode is mutable, which means that you are a levelheaded communicator who makes sure that whatever is being discussed is precise and accurate. Your role in a team is that of quality control.

Rising Sign
As a Taurus Rising, you are an ideal friend, a charming companion, and an easy-going partner. Usually you are very agreeable and don’t try to impose your own point of view on others. Only on very rare occasions do you get malicious or controlling, therefore, you are someone who is very easy to live with. Aesthetics and beauty are important to you, and if you are a true Taurus Rising, your home is probably extremely luxurious and comfortable. You can be considered a materialist on a never-ending search for the object or the relationship that will provide you with as much pleasure as possible. All your senses need to be satisfied in order for you to be happy! You simply love life and all the good things it has to offer. You are an Epicurean, who likes to eat well, to drink well, and most of all to make love well. As a lover of pleasure and beauty, you feed off of the material and physical satisfaction that your usually established financial situation allows you. The pleasures in your daily life allow you to revitalize yourself, and give you a great deal of confidence in yourself and your self-worth.

Life Path Number: 7
Your Life-Path number is probably the most influential numerological aspect to be considered, and represents who you are at the time of birth. It indicates specific traits and will likely be active and influential throughout your lifetime. It is the overall number that determines much of what will be important to you and how you will handle things as they come. If your Life-Path number is SEVEN, depth of thinking and the ability to gain knowledge from most everything will be something you’ve experienced since an early age. SEVEN is considered the ‘spiritual’ number and such qualities as intuition will be prominent. Those with a SEVEN Life-Path are usually peaceful and affectionate. You may not have many friends as a SEVEN, but the ones you do have will be for life. You’re a compassionate and caring friend. As a SEVEN, you will likely be able to sense deception from others quickly and you’re not likely to be wrong. A balance between time with others and private time taken to be alone with your thoughts and dreams is essential. It is common for SEVENS to be seen as aloof due to their selective socializing and required time alone. If the truth be told, many SEVENS feel a sense of insecurity. This may be because much of a SEVENS ‘reality’ is not tangible. You will rely heavily on instincts and intuition. At times this insecurity can lead to pessimism or loneliness. Mood swings are also not uncommon.

Chinese Sign: Ox
A Chinese proverb says, "The ox is slow but the earth is patient". You go through life with determination and common sense. You love nature and so like working outdoors. You also like quiet cottages, and have respect for traditions. You are solid, with a quiet interior force that people can count on. You also have a great sense of humanity, are loyal, honest, upright, faithful, and have integrity. No job turns you off when you have made a decision and you never go back on your word even if it means being unduly stubborn. You suppress your emotions, and hide them most of the time - notably when you are in love because you are afraid of being rejected. You are not afraid of solitude, and prefer spending your evenings in a quiet cottage in the countryside rather than a Parisian lounge watching the beautiful people go by. A little bit rustic, you are not a diplomat, and let others know what you think without hesitation. If someone attacks you, you fight back like a bull with your head lowered and horns ready to gouge your enemy. Those who hurt you or those close to you should watch out: you hold grudges for a long time - excessively so - and never forget a name or a face. You always get sweet revenge... even several years later. Your fault: You're a bad loser and can't stand failure.

So, there it is. Generally, I'd say that it was pretty accurate although I do take issue with some of the descriptions. So what about you? Do you think your astrological profile accurately describes you?

A matter of time

2005-05-17T14:15:00.000-05:00

Well, it looks like the last great holdout is finally succumbing to the pressure. It used to be that one could find a steady, lifelong job with city government (whether that's what you were looking for or not). You had to work real hard to be fired from the city, but no more. Even though we've been suggesting layoffs for the past few years, there has been much resistance from City Council to agree. This budget season, they're still trying to deny that they are directly recommending layoffs, but if you cut half of a department's budget, what do you think will occur? It's a big political game between the Mayor and Council, but the bottom line is we cannot continue to operate at our current size and level of expenses.
I say all this to say that Council has recommended cutting another 25% from my department's budget. This is in addition to the 7 positions that have already been cut. Since we are a staff department, this cut means more people are going to lose their jobs and I don't think I can avoid the ax this time. I've known that it was time for a change for a minute now, so I'm not feeling pressed/panicked, but I'm not entirely sure what direction my career needs to move in next. This job is just that - a job and like Edwige expressed, I haven't found my passion. So, right now I'm kind of at a stand still. I'm in the process of updating my resume and I have friends keeping an eye out for any openings, but what I really need is divine guidance.

Louisville

2005-05-16T16:22:00.000-05:00

I was there.

the end

Just kidding!

I did go to Louisville this past weekend for a leadership seminar given by the NBMBAA. Didn't know exactly what to expect as I've never been to one and never been to Kentucky, but all went pretty well.
The purpose of this particular event was to share best practices among the different chapters as well as to receive encouragement and vows of support from National HQ. Overall, it was lovely to see a bunch of professional black folks from all over the country get together in the interest of advancing OUR economic and intellectual wealth. Like I said, I had a good time and learned a few things along the way:

- We are some of the most creative people on the face of the planet. Many of our chapters are struggling financially since a large portion of our operating funds come from donations. So what must we do? Fundraise. Your cousin's sister-in-law's neice can sing/is an artist/knows somebody with clout? We 'bout to work this. Present us with a challenge and black folks will find a way to work it out...

- You can't hold us down (or, You can't take us nowhere. Just depends on your perspective). Friday night, the host chapter planned for us to hang out in their little (and I stress little) downtown area. They have this area of 4th street that's been blocked off to traffic where they have little restaurants, clubs, and a bowling alley. So we end up in the Maker's Mark lounge. Upon requesting seating, we're placed where? Of course, in a glassed off area in the back of the lounge. You want to put us in the back? No problem.
What started off as a area with about 3 sections of seating turned into Our Sh*t. When we got back there, the two other sections were occupied by some white folks who thought they were going to have a nice meal and a few drinks. Fast forward about 15-20 minutes and I guess the lively conversation of about 15 of us encouraged the speedy completion of their lounge experience and we commenced to take over. Picture a bunch of black folks rearranging furniture up in that piece (I'm talking about couches, chairs, tables, you name it). Did anybody say anything to y'all you ask? What could they say? We weren't harassing anyone, as a matter of fact we were very welcoming to the point of maybe scaring a few local brown folks that rolled through. Most importantly, we were spenting money and that's what matters right? Overall, a good time was had by all.

- As a Detroiter, I've been spoiled. It's always a small culture shock when I'm outside of Detroit. As many of you know, this city is approx. 86% Us. In other words, we are everywhere and our white folks have adjusted (as much as they can adjust I suppose) to seeing us all up and through the area. I always have to remind myself that we are the exception to the rule when compared to the majority of the country. When I'm out and about and they're staring I'm thinking "do I have something on me?" not that they're staring because they're not used to seeing black folk.

- Always bring a map even if you're not the one driving. There were three of us in the car. The driver had his mapquested directions on how to get back to the D, the person in the backseat already had her laptop open and was deep into her work, and I was in the passenger seat on the phone. We're riding for a good 20-25 minutes when the driver says "where is exit XXX?" Damn.
We've obviously passed the exit and most likely passed it a long time ago, so we end up just riding North until the other two (b/c I don't travel much and could offer absolutely no help) figured out what road would connect with the one that we were on and eventually get us back home. We ended up not going too far out of the way, but it just showed me that I need to be more prepared...and I need to travel more.

What's next? I'll be in Chicago in July (another road trip!), Savannah, GA in August, and maybe New Orleans in October. Can't wait!

The Corner

2005-05-11T08:35:00.000-05:00

I've been in a contemplative mood these last few days. I've been having this feeling for a while now, but after reading Yolanda's post about being free (see link to the right), it's gotten stronger. I commented to her, that I had been thinking about her exact topic when I read her post. Since then, I've had this kind of nervous anticipation feeling in the pit of my stomach. I don't know in what form this change is going to occur, but I do feel that it's right around the corner...

Random Thoughts and Observances

2005-05-06T10:15:00.000-05:00

This seems to be a right of passage for many bloggers, so here goes:

1. I'm standing outside after work waiting for the shuttle to take me to the parking garage, when this white dude standing to my left is approached by a man looking for change. He goes through his spiel and I'm feeling kind of generous so I start checking my pockets for change since dude is clearly not trying to hear what the man is saying and I'm sure he'll be headed my way next. As if on queue, the man turns my way and walks.right.past.me....to the white lady on my right. What? It took me a couple of seconds to realize, I've just been discriminated against by a bum! I don't know whether to be offended by that or not...

2. While recovering from the shock of the above, I see a SMART bus stopped down the street. It looks like it has a bike plastered to the front. Now I've seen people have little tricks of the eye on their vehicles (remember the stuffed cat placed to look like it had been rolled up in the window?) but I didn't think that kind of thing was allowed on regional transportation. Upon closer inspection, I realize that the bus has a bike rack on the front. I had never seen anything like this before. I guess I'm so used to seeing the city buses which seem lucky to have the engine and all their wheels, that is caught me off guard. Learn something new every day...

3. My loctitian retwisted and styled my hair last night. I am so ka-yute! (said in my best Kim Parker voice)

4. It was a close game, but the Celtics beat the Pacers last night. One more game to go in the series. I'm not a fan of Boston or Indiana, but I kind of want the Celtics to win just so we can avoid the media circus that is sure to ensue if the Pacers and my Pistons meet in the next round of the playoffs.

5. I had to give my mommy a happy mother's day kiss and hug last night since she said "I'm gone!". Her and my aunt have decided to be out this mother's day and they're going to the spa for the weekend. Should be there right about now...

6. My friends and I have been having monthly get togethers, just to kick it, de-stress, laugh, drink, etc. and wouldn't you know it, the first bbq of the year and my ass will be in Louisville at a best strategies seminar. *sigh* it's not fair...

7. The above is also a birthday party (happy b-day CP!) and a July 4th weekend planning session and I'm going to miss it all. *double sigh*

8. 102.7FM became a friend of mine the other day. In the morning Mason played Kid n Play (oh la, oh la, ayy!), Ready for the World (Let me love you dooowwwwn) and Force MD's (sorry, don't remember the name of the song but when was the last time you heard the Force MD's!). I was jammin! Then that afternoon, they took me back to high school (or was it freshman year at college?) with Jodeci! Come and talk to me...I really wanna know you, Can I talk to you? I really wanna show you...

9. So I'm sitting at my desk at work and happen to brush my hand across my thigh when I feel something hard. Dang, what is that? I think to myself. Guess what y'all? I'm actually developing some muscles over here! Now if I can work off some of this flab I'm going to be one dangerous sista...

10. Maybe you veteran bloggers can tell me, am I really going to go through life now with my "is this blog-worthy?" glasses on? It's crazy...

2005-05-04T12:08:00.000-05:00

What's happening in my life right now? See for yourself:

Work
I work for City government. If you're at all familiar with what's going on in the D, you know that we are in deep financial shit right now and I believe it's going to get worse before it gets better. We're waiting on City Council to approve the budget which they probably won't without some major dismantlinghttp://www.freep.com/news/locway/budget4e_20050504.htm, so in the meantime a sista is just trying to hang on to her job.
One day I'm going to have enough courage to jump into the unknown and do what I'm really supposed to be doing with my life. I am certain that it is so not what I'm doing now.

Church
I absolutely love my church. It's somewhat controversial in Baptist circles because our senior pastor is a woman, but I feel she is called by God and no one can tell me otherwise.
On Friday, we are having a "Game Night". Now I love my church family but there is no way that you can tell me that nobody is going to slip up and forget where they are Friday night. We're talking about spades, bid whist, and dominos...*smh*. I can't wait to see what's going to go down. I'll be sure to keep you posted.

The Law
I take the fact that I can write about this as evidence that I'm finally recovering.
In February of this year, while minding my own business getting ready to go to choir rehearsal, the police come to my home.
police: "Are you A.M.?"
me: "yes"
police: "Do you have any shoes?" (I was barefoot at the time)
me: "yes" (confusion and bewilderment all over my face)
police: "You need to put them on..."

What happened next can only be described as one of the most traumatic experiences I've had in my young life. Y'all I was handcuffed and taken to jail and held overnight! Me! Anyone who knows me would tell you that jail is the last place they would ever expect to find me. I'm the quiet, laid-back chick that "so nice" to everyone (wait, is this starting to sound like all the news sound bites you hear after people find out they've been living next door to a serial killer?). Really though, I've never been in legal trouble, so picture me on this night. I was straight looking around expecting to see someone jump out the bushes and tell me I've been punked.
But, no such luck. I found out the next day that someone had their throat slit at a convention in the area and the perpetrators were a young man and a woman (supposedly me). How did they find me you ask? Apparently, a phone number was left at the scene and when researched by the police, Sprint gave them MY info.
WHAT?
Yup. And, get this...the phone number was not my number but was very similar to my cell number. I have two words for you: law.suit.
I tell you all of this, because I am in fact in the process of filing a lawsuit, so if you see me venting about it in the future, remember this post.

Weight
I'm trying to lose some. 18 lbs. lost so far. Of course I start really going to the gym back in November, but given the events that have occurred in the early part of this year, I'm still claiming this as a major accomplishment.
I'm a bridesmaid in my girlfriend's wedding this July, so the goal is to lose at least 20 more pounds. I can do it!!

Our poor chirruns
That's what I thought to myself last night as I read some scholarship essays submitted to the NBMBAA (Nat'l Black MBA Assoc.) by our high school students. If we are going to have to depend on these kids to run the country soon, then we are in a world of trouble.
The essay topic was: the SAT now includes an essay portion as well as third year college preparatory math(I'm paraphrasing). What effect do you think this will have on African-American enrollment, especially underrepresented AA males? 80% of these kids could not write a coherent paragraph. Many of them barely answered the question. Grammatical and spelling errors were rampant all up and through these papers. Not to mention the pure, unadulterated hostility expressed regarding the SAT and college in general. Apparently the SAT is a setup to keep the black man down. Also, you would have to be "Einstein's cousin" or "rich so you can buy your way into college". It would all be hilarious if it wasn't so damn sad. This is the next generation! I pray that these kids' papers are not representative of the english skills being learned in our high schools today. If they are, they don't have a chance against the rest of the world's children.

Hello all

2005-05-03T14:08:00.000-05:00

Ok, looks around new digs, this is my first post on my first blog ever! Hopefully, anyone reading this will not be bored to death. After ready so many other blogs, I feel inspired to step on out there and add my name to the blog family. Thanks to everyone that has the courage to speak to a bunch of strangers about their daily lives. You all have provided laughs, provoked thought and encouraged me in a time of confusion without you even realizing it.

Until I have something else to write...

mellow