Season's Greetings

"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is this day, in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
- Luke: 2:10, 11

To all that grace my blog, I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!...And to those who don't celebrate Christmas, I wish you peace and happiness also.

Ladies...Ladies: What's Up With Your Makeup?

Does Your MakeUp Make You Look Like You Work For A Circus???!!!

Can we openly and honestly chat for a minute about makeup do's and dont's? I'm a girly girl who loves the color pink (and green), going to the salon, doing some shopping, buying cute shoes, and buying makeup. But, girl, believe me, I've seen some mistakes, which have lead some women to look like sideshow or circus clowns. Or perhaps, they could have applied to teach at the highly esteemed Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Sarasota, Florida.

I know that makeup application can be tricky. What works for one lady may not work for another. There are different skin complexions and facial features such as lips and high cheek bones to consider. I had to pass down my tips to friends and family who don't wear much makeup. I've been having fun shopping for makeup at department stores and drugs stores since college. I've spent time experimenting with what works and what doesn't. But I will say is that I don't think everyone has to wear it, because it is a woman's personal decision to wear cosmetics or not. Family and friends have approached me about helping them, because they were either trying to prepare to take some nice pictures at a photography studio or were preparing for a ball, a prom, or a wedding day. They had no inkling on what to do. They didn't know the makeup brands, what shade to wear,or the differences in foundation. Just nothing. So, I put together the following tips. Please feel free to add some yourself:

Makeup Tips:

1) My #1 tip is that everyone really doesn't need makeup. Makeup is used to accentuate one's features. But no one should be made to feel like she has to wear it, especially if she doesn't want to. But if she does, I hope that she will use it responsibly and sparingly. Folks with beautiful complexions, please don't mess up your skin with a palette of circus clown colors. Some folks can get away with just wearing a little powder to cut down the shine and maybe a little bit of lip stick or lip gloss.

2) Please don't let department store makeup clerks or Mary Kay ladies con you into buying the whole makeup and cosmetics line. That stuff can get really expensive buying those whole packages, which may consist of: foundation, pressed powder, compact powder, blush, mascara, eyeliner, eye shadow, lipstick, lip gloss, eye cream, facial cleanser, facial moisturizer, facial mask, etc., and on and on till the break of dawn. Some of that stuff such as the mascara, eyeliner, cleansers and moisturizers can be purchased at a discount store for far less.

3) Experiment way before you have a social engagement to determine what works for you and what doesn't. Also determine which stores or venues (Mary Kay, Avon, etc.) are the best for you to purchase items according to availability. For example, some stores like W.almart and T.arget have some of the best prices, but once the inventory gets low, sometimes they don't reorder for a while. Department stores are better at staying stocked up, but be sure you want to pay those prices. Side Note: I love MAC's lipstick.

4) Don't try to look like somebody else. Folks are forever trying to look like Halle Berry or Janet Jackson or Beyonce'. But folks are unique. We can never really look like anybody else. So, why don't we just focus on accentuating our own features?

5) Don't be afraid to consult a cosmetics professional for more complicated things (waxing eyebrows and mustaches...arching eyebrows...dyeing eyebrows, etc.). Have you seen some ladies who purposely shave or tweeze their eyebrows and then try to draw it back? Or have you seen other ladies' eyebrows that look like McDonald's golden arches or Joan Crawford's eyebrows? I know my limits. I can do some things on my own, but I leave my eyebrows alone. Fortunately, my eyebrows don't need much work, but if I needed help, I would have someone else shape them for me. But if you can do it well, go on with your bad self.

6) Blend, blend, blend. I love Patti Labelle's music. She one of my most favorite stars. And I think she's a really nice and gracious person. I had the chance to meet her some years ago at a book signing. She was nothing but humble and stayed late to make sure she signed everybody's books. But one time, one of her makeup artists needed to be ashamed of himself. He needed to be play slapped and punched. At another event, the makeup artist had Patti looking like a french clown, because he made her face look 10 times lighter than the rest of her body. She was wearing an off the shoulder dress, so it looked sort of strange to see her face one color, and her neck and hands another color. I just hope that she'll stick to another makeup artist the next time.

7) Try to take excellent care of your skin. Don't sleep in your makeup; be sure to wash it off thoroughly everyday. Wash your face with a cleanser appropriate for your skin type (sensitive, dry, oily, or normal). And follow-up with an astringent that's not harsh to the skin to wipe away the makeup that the soap didn't get. Then follow-up with a great moisturizer. And be sure to take a rest from the makeup sometimes. I have fun wearing makeup to work, but I don't wear it at home or on the weekends. The pores got to breathe.

8) For sanitary reasons, never ever apply makeup directly to your skin at the cosmetics counter at the store where everybody else has touched and used it. Can you imagine trying on lipstick that everybody else has used on their lips? Many department stores have samples or simply hold up the color beside your skin without putting it on your skin.

9) Find out the proper techniques. I've seen a couple of ladies look burgundy, because they applied blush all over their faces as if it was foundation.

10) Makeup doesn't have to be so dramatic. A little can go a long way. Actresses on broadway need dramatic makeup so that people seated far away in the theater can see them. And clowns wear dramatic makeup to look silly.

11) I will say this again. Determine what works for you. Learn to love yourself so that no matter whether you choose to wear makeup or not, you're satisfied with just being you.

Thanksgiving Day Revisited: No Time For Beginner's Cooking Lessons...

A Recap Of Thanksgiving...And A Public Service Announcement Concerning Cooking...

I sure hope that everyone had a beautiful Thanksgiving holiday spent with family and friends. Mine was nice. My family doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving in the same manner as history dictated with the pilgrims and the Indians, only to have the pilgrams later take the Indian's land. Rather we use this day to give thanks to the Lord. Let me run down everything that happened. A week before traveling to NC, I planned to bake a double layer coconut cake as part as my contribution to the Thanksgiving dinner. Well, folks things didn't work that way. I caught a nasty cold the day before Thanksgiving. I had that scratchy feeling in the back of my throat that let me know that a cold was on its way. Bummer dude!!! But I charged forward on Thanksgiving morning. I managed to straighten up my place before making the 4 1/2 hour (really 5 hours...ole lead foot) trip home. I got home in just enough time before I lost my taste buds, because of the cold. I'll just say this though. Nothing, I say, nothing beats a home cooked meal. Mom threw down in the kitchen. I knew that she would. That's why I skipped breakfast and lunch. Plus, it was nice to spend time with my parents and sibblings. But I tell you what. To make up for the missed cake, I'll bake it around Christmas. Maybe I'll bake a pecan pie too.

Warning Ticket: Here's A Public Service Announcement For Non-Cooking Folks Who Try To Break Bad And Try To Cook A Thanksgiving Meal!!!!

I'll tell you what precipitated this warning. The other day I called friends to see how their Thanksgiving holiday went. Most told me that they had a great time. The food was great. And the time spent with family was priceless and memorable. That's so sweet. But then a friend of mine told me about his holiday. He said that he spent it with family like everyone else. However, he told me that the person who proudly designated herself as the Thanksgiving Chef made a terrible mistake, which indicated to me that she was a newcomer to the world of the kitchen. The cook didn't know any better to remove the liver and gibblet bag from inside the cavity of the turkey and to wash the turkey thoroughly. *Gross-O-Rama X 10* My friend said that the cook was nice, yet very embarrassed. But his family overlooked that mishap and still enjoyed the company of the family. They grinned and bared the mishap by just shifting the turkey around their plates without eating it. I'm glad that everything else went well.

But, really, why of all days do new learners try to learn how to cook on the Super Bowl of Dinners? Thanksgiving is no ordinary dinner. The best spread of food is supposed to be laid out. And dinner guests don't feel like hearing why the dinner rolls look like charcoal or why the turkey still looks raw and gamey. People wish to partake in a delicious meal. And they want seconds, thirds, and a doggie bag so that they may enjoy a late night snack at their homes. So stop playing around, Chef newbies. Stop the madness, I say!

All cooking rookies don't lose faith though. It would be wise for the rookies to practice cooking Sunday dinner throughout the year. Or at least practice cooking period. Cooking doesn't have to be scary for you or your dinner guests. Cooking can be quite fun. I try to have mercy on some non-cooking folks, because they weren't raised to cook like myself. However, I will say that there is a wealth of information out here on how to prepare food properly. Last week, the rookies could have consulted a basic cookbook, called the Butterball turkey hotline, searched the internet for recipes, watched the Food Network, or simply called a longtime cook who wouldn't have minded passing down a few time-tested recipes and techniques. I only say this, because year after year I always hear of at least one person who doesn't know to clean out the turkey's cavity. For that matter, it applies to all meats, such as cornish hens and chickens. I can only wonder how many times possible harmful bacteria multiplied in an uncleaned bird. Trust me. I'm not trying to gross anybody out. I just want people to realize that food safety and cleaniness play a large role in preparing a delicious meal. Besides, no cook wants to hear about his dinner guests getting sick behind his food. Don't give up. Just practice and practice until you get good at cooking. ;-)

Happy Thanksgiving...

Everyone Have A Safe And Great Holiday!!!

As we all prepare to travel or stay home to give thanks to the Lord, I just wanted to type this brief blog entry a little early to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving Holiday!!!

Attention: Jury Duty Identity Theft Scam...

Beware of the Newest Identity Theft Scheme

Scam artists are getting so ridiculous these days. Unfortunately, they think of everything. This morning as I was getting ready for work, I heard about a new scam. It involves jury duty. Many of us are law abidding citizens and take our responsibilities seriously. So, if someone claiming to work for a municipal court calls, most people expect for the call to be legitimate. In this day of caller ID, most folks don't expect to receive a bold phone call from a crook.

Well, that wasn't the case for a lady I heard about on the news. Someone called her house asking for her and her husband's SSN and other personal information in order to mail her jury duty summons to them. Unfortunately, the scam artist caught her off-guard and she provided that person with the information. After not receiving the summons after a certain amount of time, she called the court. An court official revealed to her that they never called her and wouldn't ask for personal identification information over the phone. She then realized that she had been duped. No telling who has her and her husband's information. And there's telling what they will do with the information. It's just so disturbing that crooks actually have the nerve to call people with the intent to commit fraudulent acts. Crooks have no right to anything, but to be locked up in jail. So beware of this new scam. Let friends and family also know to never reveal personal information to someone calling them on the phone. Instead, offer to call the court yourself or to show up at the court to inquire about your phone call. For more information, read on here. ==> Jury Duty Identity Theft Scam

The Definition of an Old Maid...

Single Ladies, Is this How You Define Yourself?

Old Maid n (ca. 1530) 1: Spinster; an unmarried woman and esp. one past the common age for marrying; a woman who seems unlikely to marry. 2: a prim, fussy person. 3: a simple card game in which cards are matched in pairs and the player holding the unmatched card at the end loses.


Well, well, well, who would have known that we were going to play real life musical chairs as adults? I remember playing the game in school and at birthday parties as a kid. You remember? When the music is playing you walk around a cirlce of chairs, but when the music stops, everyone scrambles for a chair. Then one person will be left without a chair. Hmmm. It seems like the real life card game of Old Maid works the same way. The music has stopped, and some of us are left without a husband. WHERE'S MY CHAIR? WHERE'S MY HUSBAND? That's what society has brainwashed us to think.

Now that the holiday season is about to roll around, watch and see how many folks ask you why you are still single and never have been married or never have been engaged for that matter. Be prepared for the inquisition/interrogation. Folks will demand answers from you, especially if you plan to spend your holidays in your hometown where you no longer live. That's the case for me. I hail from a few places (via college campus to college campus during my childhood), however, the place I consider my hometown happens to be a gossipy little town in North Carolina. Nobody, DO YOU HEAR ME???, nobody is nosier than old ladies (old bats) from the south. They are professional athletes. They train year-round. In fact, they're prepared to swim deep and long into your personal business as if it was an Olympic pool. So be prepared for the professionals.

My family and close family are excluded from the lynch mob (inquisition/interrogation board). They already know why I have "chosen" not to marry yet. I'm not against the idea of marriage, I just haven't met the one. I happen to think that love is a beautiful thing. So, we don't engage in long, tiresome conversations about my prospects. I've already told them when God sends me the right one, I'll let them know when to call the bakery. (side note: I love cake!!!) They are satisfied with my answer. But the Inquisition/Interrogation League of Noses will be in full swing during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. They will first ask things like they are so innocent when they can see that a ring isn't on your finger. Then they will ask why a pretty girl like you hasn't been snatched up. Then they'll ask, perhaps, whether you are too independent with your little college degree, car, home, and hoity toity job. Then they'll say how sad it is that you haven't birthed any children, and basically how your whole existence is such a waste pretty similar to a crumpled up piece of paper, which has no future other than ending up in a dumpster.

Well, next week I'll be ready for the Society Noses. Here's an announcement. ==> I ain't no punk, or wimp, or chump!!! I know how to handle the nosey society ladies. *hee hee* It's just a matter of conservational manipulation. There's a way to get the upper hand. Watch me:
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Scene: **Zee At The Grocery Store Minding Her Business**

Mrs. Old Hag: Well, Hello, Aziza. I see that you're here from Maryland. Oh. I saw your new car. It's looks like you're doing well.

Zee: Hello, Mrs. Old Hag. Yes, I'm here for the holidays. I just thought I'd pick up a couple of things at the store to bake a pecan pie and a coconut cake.

Mrs. Old Hag: Umm. Aziza, how's your love life? Have you been keeping company with a young man? Aren't you concerned about nature's clock? You young gals act like you all don't need a man. You all are just too independent. Perhaps, you should have waited to buy your first place after you married. What can a man do for you now, since you got everything? If you go to grad school, you surely won't find a man. Too much education could scare the prospects away. You really should have married a nice fellow from your college classes in the past. My son and and daughter-in-law have a beautiful home. They have a couple of kids and are doing really, really well. My son is looking at becoming partner at his firm. *brag* *brag* *brag* *blah blah* *blah blah* *blah blah* *blubber* *gum smacking* *gibberish*

Zee: *Instead of frowning, Zee smiles.* I'm doing well...I'm fine.... *Zee selectively ignores questions.*

Zee: Oh, by the way, how is your other son doing? *Zee knows that Mrs. Old Hag's 30-Something year old, non-working, lazy son lives with her and plays computer games all daylong* -- *See how I turned that conversation around? *Hmph*

Mrs. Old Hag: *Clears Her Throat And Looks Away.* Umm. Son of Hag is doing well. Well, Aziza, it was nice seeing you. Take care. And tell your family that I said Hello.

Zee: Will Do. Happy Thanksgiving!!!! *Zee Cops A Meow Mix Chessy Cat Smile*

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Now don't get me wrong. All folks aren't like old hags. There are a few other well meaning folks. There are some nice old ladies with nice, intelligent, handsome, employed, unmarried, straight, God-fearing sons. If they ask me if I'm not married, they may be asking to get me in contact with their sons. That's cool. I might even enjoy that.

Aside from all of this, single sisters shouldn't feel bad about their marital status (or the lack there of). There's nothing to be ashamed of. Therefore, there is no reason to stay home during the holidays trying to hide from the world. Please don't sit around reminiscing about failed relationships and missed opportunities. Get that hair done, dress up, and enjoy yourself at the holiday parties. Don't worry about finding a husband, because God is in control and knows what we need. Besides how can you meet Mr. Right, if you don't get out? That's what some folks told me. *wink*

Tech Tuesday: Your S.ony/B.MG Music CDs

Here's something that you might want to read about. Last week, a co-worker and friend of mine forwarded an article to me about S.ony/BMG's music CDs. Apparently, in an effort to prevent people from illegally mass producing and selling the work of S.ony/C.olumbia artists, the company didn't tell music buyers that their CDs placed possibly harmful software on their computers that would open them up to hackers. S.ony didn't actually apologize for not telling customers that they held their computer's in harms way, but provided instructions on how to remove the software from their computers. They only took action after computer security experts got on their case. If you are concerned about this issue, please read on for more specifics==> S.ony/B.MG CDs and Unmentioned Software

When I read this article, I thought about how many S.ony/C.olumbia CDs that I bought this year. Just a few, but enough to do damage to my computer. Two in particular led to me to think that this happened to me. I usually buy most of my music in the middle of my workday at lunch time. Music is what keeps me calm at work and does a great job of focusing me on the task at hand. Once I remember trying to play a CD, but I was prevented from doing so. I was thinking, "Hmm. Did I just purchase a defective CD or was the computer set up (firewalls) at my job the reason for the CD not playing?" I took it home later that day, but I first had to go through some steps, before it would let me play it. I went ahead with S.ony/B.MG's instructions, because they claimed that the CD had some bonus hidden tracks and videos. I wonder could this possibly be what the articles are talking about. I guess I'll have to think twice before buying certain CDs.

Reporting From Cubicle Office 8-4

Co-Worker Workplace Violations...Drats!!!


I fully understand that I must work for for a living. As adults, that's just our lot in life. Fine. But why should the working experience be made so miserable by a few annoying, busybody co-workers? Let me hurry up and type this post, before one of them runs up on me during my break time. The violations are as following:

Personal Space Violators:

I don't know whether this has anything to do with the new perfume I've been wearing or what. But at least 3 co-workers have been violating my personal space, which annoys me to the highest degree. When I can see up their nose, and smell their breath, I think that's just too close up. I just can't understand why they feel they need to get up on me like that. And no matter how much I step back from them, they step forward to me....Touchy Feely Folks (TFFs) also fall into this category. They just can't hold a conversation unless they are touching or rubbing up on you. Enough already with the police pat downs and frisks. STOP IT!!!!!!*Adding HR & EEO Numbers To the Speed Dialing List*

Office Busybodies:

Office Busybodies are those co-workers who listen to your telephone calls, peak over your shoulder to see what is on your computer screen, ask you what time you came to work, inquire whether you were away from the office on a particular day, keep track of your lunchtime (and what you ate), ask you how much money you make, try to find out what kind of car you drive, ask you where you live, ask how much you pay for your rent/mortgage, ask about your personal life (boyfriend), poke around your cubicle when you walk away, and so on and so forth. I kid you not. Everything that I've listed has happened in my office.

Overly Competitive Co-Workers:

I know that many of us are striving to provide excellent work, however, is it really necessary for some to step on the heads of others to elevate themselves? A few weeks ago, a co-worker of mine took a project from me without telling me, because I sided with our attorneys. He didn't give me the courtesy of asking me whether I would mind trading projects with him. I very well would have given it to him. I started to fire off an email to him telling him how I didn't appreciate his lowdown, insincere tactics . But I decided against the email, and let it slide. Nevertheless, what's done is done. I keep reminding myself that I can't and shouldn't fight every battle that finds its way to me. Besides, I need to concentrate on determining how I will fit my new graduate school classes into my schedule.

Non-Handwashers:

Didn't we learn how to wash our hands as little kids? Apparently, some folks missed that all so important lesson from the looks of things in my office. There have been times when I have witnessed some female co-workers walk straight from the ladies' room stall out of the restroom altogether without putting any water and soap on their hands. Ladies aren't the only ones. Some male friends have told me that other men pee and go as well. And guess what? These are the same folks who just love having pot luck parties at work. They are forever bringing food to work. One old chick had the nerve to bring in strawberries that she dipped in chocolate. Now you know good and well that I didn't partake any of that. Besides, I didn't feel like testing my gag reflex. Shux, who are these people? *Good Grief*

Romantic Date Hunters/Stalkers:

These are the absolute worst. My motto at work is ==> Don't Bother Me!!! I'm really not mean at all by default. I was raised in the South. So, I will engage in light conversation to be polite.

A few years ago, an old (50-something year old) Puerto Rican co-worker couldn't seem to leave me the heck alone. I have to admit that to be nice I speak to all of the people who have cubicles near mine. The conversation usually relates to news, the weather, and other non-specific type of crap. However, Mr. D took things differently. Since I really have a hard time coming into work early, I end up spending late evenings in the office. He did too. But I would be working and minding my own business. When everybody else on the early schedule would leave, he would come to my office and chat about everything under the sun. He insisted that we Blacks and Hispanics should stick together. Many times, I would have to sneak away from the office before he made his way to me. He demanded that we spoke everyday.

Then one day lo and behold he struck the wrong chord with MISS ZEE. He let me know that he regularly listened to my phone calls, and other co-workers told me that they noticed him watching me. And another time, he tried to fill me out by asking what he could do to become appealing to the women, and whether he was too old for me. I ignored him, and went about my way. Besides, I don't get down with the elderly. But he got more forceful and annoying. While I was in the cafeteria waiting for my food, he came up behind me in line and said that he missed our conversations in front of the cafeteria lady serving the food. You should have seen the look on her face. Mr. D made things sound like we had a little something going on. Not! I didn't dignify him and walked off. Things never got better. He still stares, but I ended up moving my office to another cubicle to get away from him. Why can't folks just take the hint, and blast off? Hit the road, Jack!

I think that I've covered the most common violators in my office, and sincerely hope that you don't have to endure this kind of mess at your job. Hmm. Maybe I need to find a new office.

Does Mr. Biggs Have An Appointment With The Big House???

And Could the Caped Crusader's Musical Sidekick, R. Kelly, Join Him In The Big House Playing The Role of Robin?

Oh my. Say it ain't so. The ever-young, so-called ladies' man, dapper dan is in big, big trouble. The news wires have reported that 64-year old Ronald Isley aka Mr. Biggs has been recently convicted on multiple counts of tax evasion. It appears that Mr. Biggs didn't pay his taxes from 1997-2002 on his performance fees. The court also claims that he put property and a yacht in the names of his former wife and corporations, while also collecting royalty money due to his deceased brother's estate. I really don't understand why so many celebrities fall victim to their taxes, because although they have attorneys and accountants, they themselves the stars will have to serve time in jail for not taking personal responsibility. Mr. Biggs may give the impression of an old, old pimp in the music industry, but can he really hang in the confines of jail? He could face 26 years in the slammer. *Oh Snap* For more specifics, read the following: Mr. Biggs' Taxing Problem

With Martha Stewart just finishing her time, Lil' Kim currently doing her time, and the court estimating Ron Isley's, it appears that they may not be alone. Last week, it was reported that R. Kelly's legal case (involving illegal videotape dealings with underage girls) will continue and will not be thrown out as requested by his lawyers. For more information, read the following: R.Kelly's Not Off The Hook

Entertainment News: Star and Al Reynolds

Star's Hubby Was Arrested for License Suspension Flap

News reports stated that Star Jones Reynolds' husband, Sweety Al, was arrested recently for driving with a suspended license after being stopped by the police for changing lanes without signaling. It's still not totally clear what the license suspension part is all about, but I've heard that there was some paperwork mixups or problems.

But what the real news is that New York newspapers have been reporting that Al was arrested at 2:48 a.m. (Where was he driving to or from that time of the morning?....Hmmm....Al La Eddie *Majetty* Murphy"), and that Star didn't come to the police station to see him. Therefore, he was detained for 12 hours. Rather, the publicist had to go down to the Five-0 to take care of Al's business. By the way, in a few weeks the couple will celebrate their first wedding anniversay. Last year, Soror just about made everyone sick talking about every detail leading up to her wedding. With all that love, I'm still wondering whether Star was in a deep sleep and didn't hear the phone or what when Al called. Or maybe she was feeling a little depressed about the E! cable channel dropping her from the future red carpet shows that she was meant to fill in after Joan and Melissa Rivers left. I don't know. However, someone said that on the show, "The View", she stated that she did make it to the police station, but came through the back door. Hmmm. Okay. *looking out of side of the eyes* *crickets chirping* *Ahem* Alrighty. Nevertheless, I hope that they clear this mess up. For more information read on. ==> Al Reynolds

Thursday Morning's Rampage And Rant Fest...

This Is Not My First Time At The Rodeo!!!...

(Side Note: Excuse this entry if it doesn't make sense, because I just must release this stress...Alrighty?...I'm still a lady though.)
Take a strong look at the picture above. Just imagine a caramel version of that, and know that captures me right about now. That picture is from the movie, "Mommie Dearest", which features Faye Dunaway as Joan Crawford. Yeah, yeah, yeah, Joan was off the hook and just about insane when it came to disciplining her children, but the woman didn't take any mess off no one. Do you hear me? The above picture is from a scene where the Pepsi Cola chairman and board are sitting at one end of a table in a board room, with Joan on the other end. The chairman and the board tried to strongarm Joan into resigning her board member position from the board. She didn't take that slap lying down. She raised up and handled her business. That should be me.



Speaking of Joan's insanity, do you all (those who have seen the movie) remember the part where she has a meltdown and crazefest directed to Christina, her young daughter, over some stupid wire hangers? Faye should have won the Lifetime Academy Award in the Psychotic Broads' Category for her performance in this scene. She ended up screaming at the top of her lungs, making crazed clown faces, pulling all of the clothes out of the closet, whipping her child with the wire hanger, wildly sprinkling Comet bathroom cleaner all over the floor, and crawling away on all fours like a bear at the end. Many folks in real life act like they are too good to do any of that. But after being passed over for promotions for years at a time, seeing gas prices go through the roof, coping with other bills climbing skyward, driving crazy highway commutes to and from work, sitting for long periods of time pumping out work, receiving unreasonable and complicated work assignments after the due date, and hearing a new troubling noise from a 9 year old car, going off, screaming at the top of one's lungs, and crawling away like a bear seems totally appropriate for one not to be ashamed of not one teen weeny little bit. Oops. Was I talking about me? *frown* Well, it is what is. *shrug*

Although the grizzly bear's claw is grappling at my neck at work, I'm still reaching for and looking for a brighter day. Know that this is not my first time at the rodeo and that eventually I'll be alright. Until then, the ranting continues. Yesterday, I interviewed for another assignment in another office at "THE ORGANIZATION." I sure hope and pray that I get it, but I also pray and hope that it will work out beautifully if I do get it if you know what I mean. There's no sense in going from the frying pan to the skillet. Hmph!!!

Babyface and Tracey Edmonds End Their Marriage

Another Celebrity Couple Gone The Way Of Splitsville: And Another One Bites The Dust...

As I drove to work this morning, I heard that Babyface and his wife, Tracey, who have two sons, were ending their marriage after 13 years. I wasn't sure to believe this bit of news at first, because I generally don't depend upon or trust the news from music stations, because their primary purpose is to entertain. The Russ Parr
Show on one of the Washington, DC stations did a spoof of a person sounding like Babyface singing a song about him spotting his wife at the taping of his music video. But after hearing at least other three stations discussing this issue, I finally started to believe it. According to the news, the splitting couple provided the following statement:

"It is with deep regret that we announce our permanent separation. We remain best friends. We will continue to work together in our companies, and our various business ventures. More importantly, we are parents of two wonderful children, and will continue to provide a loving, caring and stable environment for them." For more information read on ==> Babyface and Tracey Split

Back in the height of Babyface's career when he produced his own songs such as "Whip Appeal", "Soon As I Get Home", "Tender Lover", "For The Cool In You", and other hits, things seemed to be going so well for him professionally and personally. He met Tracey when she was auditioning to be in one of his videos. And from there, it looked like their lives took off. They looked like such a happy couple. Shortly after marrying, Babyface helped Tracey start Yab Yum Entertainment, which managed Jon B.'s music career and produced the movie and cable tv show, "Soul Food." Babyface and L.A. Reid were highly sought after producers who reliably produced hits in collaboration with TLC, Toni Braxton, and Mariah Carey. And Babyface produced the soundtrack to "Waiting To Exhale", which I still love to listen to this day. Babyface and Tracey had a couple of kids and a beautiful home. The power couple seemed to see no limits. However, Babyface and Tracey are going the route (of divorce) that so many celebrity couples are taking these days. I have to admit that I was a little shocked. I wonder what happened. However, in any case, I wish them well.

Bill Bennett's Ignorant Comments...

Billy Made Comments Stating That Aborting Black Infants Would Reduce The Crime Rate...

For a while now, I've noticed that some racists have found today's political climate conducive to them making all kinds of hateful comments. The most recent type of comments came from Conservative Commentator and former Secretary of Education (Reagan Administration) Bill Bennett. And folks like him claim to advocate family values. So much for that. *shrug*

On Bennett's radio program, "Morning In America", he made a comment about aborting black infants to reduce the crime rate in response to a caller's comment. Then he went on to say, "That would be an impossible, ridiculous and morally reprehensible thing to do, but your crime rate would go down." Was that some half-hearted pre-apology that he was providing to cover his behind if someone tried to call him on it or what? Would Bennett have advocated the mothers of killers Jeffrey Dahmer and Tim McVeigh aborting them? But no, he was suggesting that black folks have a monopoly on crime.

Instead of apologizing, Bennett is now saying that others should apologize to him for misrepresenting his words. Say what? However, the "POINT" is that he never should have said that at all. At times like this I wonder where are folks like Bill Cosby and the black conservatives such as Rev. Creflo Dollar and former Congressmen J.C. Watts and Gary Franks. Then people like Michael Steele, the Lieutenant Govenor for the State of Maryland, wonder why black folks have a hard time voting for his fellow conservatives who agree with and spout that kind of ignorance. For more information, see the following news report ==> ABC News: Bill Bennett's Comments.

Hostage Gave Killer Crystal Meth...

Several Months Later Hostage Fills In Blanks:
Well, Well, Well....A Bit More Of The Truth Is Revealed...

As you may recall, a few months ago a prisoner being escorted to a court appearance overcame the court deputy by severely injurying her. And he continued his rampage by shooting and killing several court employees, including a judge. On his two-day killing spree, the killer held the Atlanta area in a state of emergency, because he kept slipping through the hands of the police authorities. But on a Saturday morning, I remember watching CNN as a SWAT team prepared to take custody of the killer who was giving himself up. Afterwards, the media immediately praised a hostage for keeping calm and reading parts of "A Purpose Driven Life", a Christian book, to the killer. She also made pancakes for the killer. News correspondents proclaimed her as an angel, while local government officials prepared to give her award money for safely delivering the killer to the authorities. Read on ==> Latest News Report

Hmm. Well, now. The above represents the news media's perspective. But from my perspective and those of my friends, we believed that there was a little more to the story. Call it what you want to, but I call it woman's intuition. And many times we are RIGHT. We thought something was amiss. We believed that the power of the WORD can cause a killer to change his ways. But umm. Making pancakes for the chump of a killer is another story. Some of my friends thought that perhaps she may have had some "relations" with the killer to persuade him to release her. I wasn't so sure about this theory, but I still believed that something was being left unsaid. Now news reports state that the hostage, Ashley Smith, gave the killer, Brian Nichols, some crystal meth from her personal stash. Say what?

If the truth is the truth and shall stand on its own, why is it just now that the crystal meth part is coming out in the news? Why wasn't this news revealed earlier? Did the media and the police authorities believe that the image of an angel and that of a drug addict hostage wouldn't jive with a "Beauty And The Beast-like" story that played out in the news headlines around the world? No telling what anyone would have done at gunpoint, but I ask again why was crystal meth fact quietly brushed under the rug. However, twisting and manipulating the news through omission resulted in an inaccurate portrayal of the set of events. Had Miss Ashley been Miss LaKeisha, Miss LaKeisha would have been taken in (to jail) for possession, since the law does not excuse the use and possession of illegal drugs under any circumstances. But no, authorities are not going to pursue this new bit of information, because of the Miss Ashley status. So, some of you don't get it twisted, KNOW that everyone is glad that the killer is caught and is back in jail where he belongs. However, also KNOW that LaKeisha would have been dogged out in the press for using drugs to sooth the savage beast. And just think, all along many of us had a feeling that there was more to this story. I guess some of us are experts at spotting "Tricknology" by the media and the authorities when we see it. *shrug*

Tropical Storm Rita: Here We Go Again...

Hurricane 2005 Season In Full Blast...

Tropical Storm Rita, which may soon become a hurricane, is headed for the Florida Keys and may continue on to Texas, Louisiana, or parts of Mexico. Let's pray in advance for the safety of those who live in the areas of the storm's projected path.

Hurricane Katrina Reveals A Divided Nation...

Commentary: Until White America ‘Gets It,’ Racial and Class Divisions Will Continue
Date: Thursday, September 15, 2005
By: Judge Greg Mathis, Special to BlackAmericaWeb.com

Every so often, something in America happens that reminds the general population that white and black Americans are reading different pages in very different books. In the 1990s, the L.A. riots and the O.J. Simpson “not guilty” verdict proved that this country’s race problem didn’t go away post-integration, but was merely swept under the rug. In this decade, the Hurricane Katrina disaster or, more appropriately, it’s handling, is our wake up call.

A recent USA TODAY/CNN Gallop Poll reveals the races are sharply divided on the subject of the victims themselves, President Bush’s handling of the situation and the reasons the government was so slow to respond. According to the poll, six in 10 blacks say that the government responded slowly because the majority of the victims were poor and black, while nearly nine in 10 whites say race and class were not a factor. Even more mind-boggling is the reality that 71 percent of blacks said the disaster response strengthened their belief that racial bias is still a problem in the U.S. Only 32 percent of whites agreed.

There is no doubt that the reasons for this difference in perception can be attributed to the disparity in the historical and current realities of black and white Americans.

America’s historical reality is that blacks were once considered chattel and were bought and sold as such. When we were counted as human beings, we weren’t considered whole; instead, we were thought to be only 3/5ths of a person. Throughout all this, many whites were able to gain money, prestige and power -- often on the backs of our people. Fast-forward to modern times and blacks continue to face discrimination. American apartheid, racial bias in hiring, housing, education, lending practices and the courts have reinforced the idea that African-Americans are not fully valued in this country.

Exasperating the differences in perception is the fact that many whites are removed from the reality of race in this country. If whites choose to do so, they can go their entire lives and have limited contacts with blacks and other minorities. They don’t have to learn our history in school, they don’t have to live amongst us, and they don’t have to see us in the workplace. Blacks, on the other hand, don’t have that luxury. From very early on, we are assimilated into an American culture that has oppressed us.

President Bush says that race did not play a role in the way the massive flooding in New Orleans was handled. Nevertheless, the majority of the suffering, despondent faces on television and in newspapers and magazines belonged to our brothers and sisters. The president’s own mother, during an interview on National Public Radio’s Marketplace commented that many of the displaced individuals were already underprivileged, so living in the Houston Astrodome where they were evacuated was “working very well for them.”

This statement lacks compassion and shows a lack of understanding of the pervasive problems of race and class in this country. President Bush is not his mother, but the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

We can no longer accept that some things will always be different for us, that we will always see things differently than whites. White America must understand how race and class divisions affect our communities. Until they "get it," the bias that thwarts our progress will continue.

---

Judge Greg Mathis is Chairman of the Rainbow PUSH-Excel Board and a National Board Member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

Editorial Cartoon Time...

Cartoon Inspired By The Words From Babs...Oh My...

"What I'm hearing, which is sort of scary, is they all want to stay in Texas. Everyone is so overwhelmed by the hospitality."

"And so many of the people in the arena here, you know, were underprivileged anyway, so this -- this is working very well for them."

The Brothers Down In The Trenches...

Lieutenant General Russel L. Honore

After the damage was done, Lt. Gen. Honore was called in to clean up the mess and to gain some kind of order. The Mayor dubbed him as "John Wayne," because as soon as he got out of a helicopter he got down to business immediately cursing/barking out orders to his subordinates. He's a trip in the news conferences as well. *lol* He's a mess, but I love his style. Here's a summarization of what happened earlier today. This is not word for word, since I was busy blogging and doing house chores at the time.

News Conference:

Nasal Sounding Reporter: General Honore, what are you doing to maintain order in the city? Are the streets safe?

Lt. Gen. Honore: Go on the streets of New Orleans. Have you been to New Orleans?

Reporter: Yes.

Lt. Gen. Honore: Did anybody accost you?

Reporter: No.

Lt. Gen. Honore: Well, all right then. There's your answer.

Reporter: **gets quiet**

***Zee Snickering***

Although he is the King of comeback statements, smart remarks, and colorful language, he should also be known for his compassion for the people when he ordered the soldiers to hold their weapons down, since they were on a humanitarian mission. And he had a couple of soldiers to help a sister trying to carry twins down the street. Hopefully, he'll be instrumental in getting things back on track.




Mayor C. Ray Nagin

I don't care what other people say. Mayor Nagin helped call serious attention to his city's suffering and needs when he placed a S.O.S. to the federal government for help. More specifically he said, ""Now get off your asses and fix this. Let's do something and let's fix the biggest %#^%*$ crisis in the history of this country." Had he sat back and said nothing, things would probably be worse off than they already are now. I give the man credit!

International Reaction To The Relief Response

The World Observes A Superpower...

With each passing day, I continue to pray for the victims and survivors of Hurricane Katrina. And I'm looking into additional ways to provide help. I haven't been able to stop watching the national network and cable news tv. But what is the world saying? The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) captured the following statements from around the world: ==> World Observations

===================

Hmm....Kanye West and New Orleans' Mayor Ray Nagin expressed similar yet stronger sentiments. All in all, I think people around the world and at home are demanding that the hurricane survivors be treated more humanely.

Four Days After Hurricane Katrina: When Will Help Arrive?

And The Suffering Continues....

Perhaps, have we put so much energy, time, money, and other resources into other situations around the world (i.e. Continuous allotments of $87 Billion are sent to Iraq) that we don't have anything to provide to our own Hurricane vicitms and survivors? Where is the help? Private organizations have been rallying together, but where is the federal help? Simply stated, THIS IS A SHAME AND A DISGRACE!!!

Hurricane Katrina: Days After The Disaster...

Victims Await Relief....

When I first watched the national news Monday evening, news correspondents were saying that New Orleans, LA had been hit hard, but missed the bullet, while Biloxi, MS caught the full brunt of the storm. Perhaps, communications weren't good at the time, because by the next morning the news had turned into another direction of stating that conditions had worsened. Areas previously thought okay became flooded as levees broke in New Orleans.

But what really broke my heart was a news report that I saw first thing on Tuesday morning. An older African American man relayed his story to CNN of how his home was ripped in half. He told how he tried to hold on tight to his wife's hand. But she told him that she wasn't going to make it, and for him to take care of their kids and grandkids. Then she was gone. The water took her away. During the interview, the man was holding the hands of two small boys. And he kept saying that he didn't know where he was going or what he was going to do. At that moment, I just wanted to reach out and hug him and his grandkids, brush their tears away, and bring back the man's wife and the kid's grandmother, but I couldn't.

In another story on CNN, a military soldier or national guardsman and a woman worked on the top of a roof to help an elderly man suffering from heart problems and diabetes to get prepared to be hoisted to an awaiting helicopter overhead. Then the camera panned over to other people waiting for help on their roofs.

It hurts right now to even revisit those memory as I type, because there are so many people out there suffering in the same position now. Although I was running late that morning for work, I picked up the phone and called the American Red Cross. I had to wait a while before a Red Cross operator could get to me, which seemed to indicate that many others were donating as well. However, in some way, my donation doesn't feel like it's enough. In addition to praying, I wonder what else we can do to help.

It is now about 72 hours after the hurricane struck, and things are in total chaos. Hurricane victims have lost loved one. They lost all of their possessions and homes. And many don't have a job to report to anymore, because businesses and other places of employment were badly damaged as well. Victims haven't had power in days. They haven't had a shower and don't have clean clothes. Babies don't have clean diapers. Folks are still standing on roofs waiting for evacuations. Many victims wonder what the next day will bring them. And overall, things look pretty grim. Nevertheless, I'm going to keep the victims in my prayers, because God is good.

==========================
If We Come Together, We Can Make A Big Difference...




Hurricane Katrina Relief Organizations:

American Red Cross

Habitat for Humanity

Network for Good

Salvation Army

====================
Song of the Day:

"Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" by Marvin Gaye

Hurricane Katrina: Possibly The Big One!

Millions Take Cover As Katrina Prepares To Roar Through...

Throughout the day on Sunday, I was glued to the tv watching the news regarding Hurricane Katrina's impending strike upon the Gulf States in the U.S. predicted to take place early Monday morning. Most of the news coverage has been devoted to New Orleans, Louisiana and its surrounding areas. And meteorological, environmental, and financial analysts are already calling Hurricane Katrina (a Category 5 hurricane) the biggest storm of our lifetime and an imminent disaster. From the looks of things the area's residents are taking this hurricane seriously. Evacuating cars sat in bumper to bumper traffic trying to get out of the area, while others stood in long lines hoping to take refuge in the Louisiana Superdome as a last resort evacuation spot where the power is expected to go out. Area airlines have closed down. Local hotels are booked. Hospitals have moved their emergency rooms to upper floors. This is it.

During the day and night on Sunday, elected officials and weather forecasters announced to the public that Hurricane Katrina is the real thing, and that evacuations are quite necessary. Environmental scientists and other experts have been trying to determine what chances the New Orleans area has, given the fact that it is an already sinking area that has water pumped out of it on good, non-hurricane days. Not only is the excess water from the hurricane a concern, but the winds are also since they may spawn tornadoes. The hurricane may be on a path to strike New Orleans, but the whole nation will feel its blow. An oil analyst has predicted that already high gas prices will further skyrocket to new record highs for the whole nation, because a third of the U.S.'s refineries are located off the coast of Louisiana. But one of the most heartbreaking things that I've heard is that officials are expecting loss of life. We all hope that the hurricane will veer off into another direction or will deteriorate. Nevertheless, let's pray that all those affected by the storm in the various States will come through this safely.
=======================
UPDATE:



The Louisiana Superdome

News reports have stated that the power is out in the Louisiana Superdome, and that the dome is operating under limited functions with backup generators. This means that nearly 9,000 or more people who are taking shelter at the Superdome as a means of last resort are sitting in the dark with no air condition and lights. It's unclear how long the hurricane will last and how long people will have to stay in the dome under very harsh conditions. Yesterday, many of the people I saw waiting in long lines to enter the dome were old, ill, or had small kids.

At one time I had a beef with the American Red Cross, because you're never really sure where your donations go as the Red Cross uses its own discretion. But during the last hurricane a few years ago in North Carolina where my family lives, the residents lost power for 2 to 3 weeks. And during that time, the Red Cross really showed its commitment. They served meals 3 times a day, and provided all kinds of support to people who lost homes. Therefore at a time like this, charity, support, and prayers can go a long way to help others in need.
========================
Here are a few news and information web sites related to the hurricane:

News Web Sites:

CNN,MSNBC,CBS

State Emergency Preparedness Agencies:

Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida

Additional Organizations:

American Red Cross and The Salvation Army

Fun and Relaxing Summer Reading

Summer Reading Book Pick: "The Hamptons"
By Linda Dominique Grosvenor

We're coming down to the last days of summer filled with vacations, cookouts, and lots of outdoor fun. But before my summer is done, I plan to do some reading since I received my copy of the "The Hamptons" just the other day. Sometimes there's nothing more relaxing than turning on a little jazz music, stretching out on a comfy couch, and reading a juicy book while sipping a little lemonade or ice tea. I didn't take any vacations to any exotic islands or any other domestic vacation spot this year. So the book will have to take me there.

Have there been times after you've finished reading a book when you wished that you could talk to the author directly? I've had informal book reviews and discussions with friends via the phone. We flipped through pages of books back and forth, while explaining our own perspectives. And sometimes one of us would point out something significant that the other missed. But more than anything we wished that we could get into the author's mind to ask various questions. Well, Linda Dominique Grosvenor, the author of "The Hamptons", plans to hold an online discussion of her book with readers on September 15, 2005. We'll get a chance to ask her about "The Hamptons'" characters, the plot, and possibly ask her whether she's interested in writing sequels to some of her books. For further details, please see Princess Dominique's blog.

========================

Hurricane Katrina



Hurricane Surprise Or Not?

The level of intensity of this storm sort of surprised me. It turned into a Category 2 hurricane. I'm not sure whether I didn't give enough attention to it in the news or whether the news folks didn't publicize it enough. All I know is that earlier this week weather forecasters said there was a tropical storm near Florida's coast that may turn into a weak Category 1 hurricane by Friday. So far the hurricane has killed 7 people, and more than a million are without power. And just think, we have about two more months to go before the end of hurricane season. On the morning news, a woman from South Florida said that many people didn't think the hurricane was going to do much damage, so many people weren't prepared. Let's pray that our Floridian bloggers are safe from harm's way.

=================

Song of the Day:

The Principles of Love by Incognito

Remembering Aaliyah: Gone, But Not Forgotten...

January 16, 1979 - August 25, 2001

"I am not going to die, I'm going home like a shooting star."
- Sojourner Truth

Song of the Day:

At Your Best (You Are Love) by Aaliyah

All Points Bulletin (APB) For Qualified HairDressers...

Please Study The Above Picture Very Carefully...

It was a little more than 2 years ago when a certain mishap happened to me at the beauty shop. My hairdo (hairdon't) looked like one of those in the above picture after visiting the salon. I kid you not. It was late spring and almost summertime when I started to look for another hairdresser. I had become very dissatisfied with my last hairdresser (cosmetologist), because after going to her for about five years she could never plaster a hairstyle on my head that I liked. I think she didn't really care for me as a customer either, because I'm not the kind of client to go the beauty shop every week. I prefer to wash and condition my hair at home every week so I can check the condition of it. I only go to the hairdresser once every 8 - 10 weeks for professional services. Besides, I would never think about cutting my own hair. And if I decide to color my hair in the future, I would only have a licensed hairdresser to perform that service.

Mistake #1: Picking the wrong salon - Well, in central Maryland it's hard to find a good hairdresser period. So, many times we ladies have to go closer to Washington, DC or Baltimore, MD to find someone who halfway knows what she or he or is doing. But no, I was determined to find one close to my home. I looked on the internet, in hair magazines, and the yellow pages for a list of stylists. I found a salon at JcPenney in one of Mizani's ads placed in Essence magazine. I stopped by the salon to make an appointment. Everything was set. *sigh*

Mistake #2: Not meeting the stylist first - I got up on a Saturday morning and drove to Columbia Mall for my hair appointment. When I saw the stylist, I should have just said that I had the wrong salon and walked away. But my sense of not wanting to hurt folks' feelings led me to stay and try to make the best of a possibly bad situation. I had a feeling that I was going to regret this experience. The stylist was a real twinkie. This was the first time I saw him. But when I made the appointment a few days before, the employees at the salon talked so highly of him, saying that he was a master/senior cosmetologist and all. Yeah right. *rolling eyes*

Mistake #3: Trusting a new hairdresser and letting that person have free reign - Upfront, I showed the stylist hairstyles that I was interested in. I had torn out these pictures from old magazines of mine. I picked hairstyles that could be achieved according to my hair length and grade. He AGREED with one of the styles. So, I THOUGHT that was what I was going to get. When he started to do my hair, I noticed that he was too heavy-handed. This was the first time I had ever let a man style my hair, but really he could have cut back and cut down on the roughhousing. Good Grief! My head, neck, and back were beginning to ache. He said that he needed to trim my ends. *shrug*

Mistake #4: Going to sleep as a new hairdresser zaps your hair away - Perhaps, since I never get enough sleep at night (4 hours or so) and my iron deficient levels, I fall asleep very easily. This was the case the day the hairdresser committed a crime on my head. He didn't cut off a whole hunk of hair at one time. It appears that he used a pair of scissors with a comb feature built into it. It seemed like he was cutting off a little bit. Oh my goodness. I'm getting a flashback of the panic I felt when I woke up and realized that he cut off about 6 to 8 inches of my hair. I could barely form the sentences to describe to him what he had done. Before the hair crime, my hair was a few inches down my shoulders. With that amount of hair, many hairstyles can be achieved (a pony tail or a french roll or another upsweep do or an allover curly do or a do worn straight). For years, I kept my hair washed and well conditioned. Now this fruitcake cut it off just that fast. All I can remember him telling me was some crap about him trying to achieve some Grand Ole Opry (Oprah Winfrey) hairdo on me. What happened to the picture, we had both agreed to? He was bugging. He acted hurt when I was less than thrilled and was downright disgusted. I flipped... *rolling neck*

Mistake #5: Not Handling Business - **Side Note: Zee doesn't encourage violent acts or profane speech. Peace must be achieved as much as possible. ** But in this particular situation, that know-it-all twitching hairdresser earned the right to have his hindparts horsewhipped. He was crying out for it. I ain't lying.....But no, Miss Zee, "So Too Nice", kept cool. I just wanted to go home. When I got home, I looked in the mirror and really recognized how much he cut off, which was a whole lot. Plus, my head, neck, and back were still aching from his strong ox-like hands. I took a nap only to wake up and realize that in fact my hair was messed up. Ah snap... *hands on hips*


My New Hairdresser: A Complete Godsend...



Dealing With The Hair Fiasco

After stressing over a torn up hairdo over the weekend, I came to the conclusion that I could not grace my office that way Monday. That morning I looked in the yellow pages and the net for another stylist to correct my hairdo. Many ladies know that many hairdressers are off work on Mondays. But this wasn't going to stop me. I called and called shops until I found one. I called a shop in Bowie. It looked to be a respectable shop. Plus, some of the stylists had received awards for their work. And some had their work featured in hair magazines. I still wasn't totally sure this was going to work out. But at this point, almost anything else would be better off for me.

Armed with my cordless phone, I proceeded to tell the main hairstylist/owner what happened to me over the weekend. Apparently, my sense of desperation won the hairdresser over. She said that she could take me within the hour, but not afterwards. Not a problem. I was in the car to make the 20 minute trip. Immediately when I arrived, the hairstylists and shampoo girls put me at ease. They talked about the possible styles that they could give me, but I only entrusted the owner to style my hair. I told her everything I hated about the new style. Not only was too much hair cut, but the previous oxen-handed stylist gave me an ultra straight hairdo that robbed my hair of it's natural volume, which I happen to love about my puffy hair. At the new shop, my hair was washed, conditioned, and set on rollers. The new hairdresser, licensed as a senior cosmetologist, worked her magic and came up with a style that looked really nice and something that I could maintain myself. I received so many compliments from my co-workers the next day.

OOoo Ooo Ooo....I Got A New Attitude

Under the new hairdresser's care, most of my hair grew back in about 8 months. This meant wearing styles that used wet sets and staying away from direct heat/thermal styles 99% of the time. The use of Biotin, a food supplement, also had a hand in growing that hair back. I'm totally satisfied with my new shop and am very thankful to find it. My new shop is a relaxing place with several hairdressers, shampoo girls, and a manicurist. The hairdressers really do try to sastisfy the customer and will take walk-ins when possible. Also, I love the the atmosphere. It's clean (which is a requirement) and the people there keep interesting conversation going. It's not wild stuff; it's just interesting. Whether we are going to attend church the next day, go to a special social event, such as a wedding, or just get regular weekly maintenance, I have to admit that we look good when we leave the shop. That shop was a Godsend.

This whole fiasco involving my hairdo isn't solely about the haircut itself. It had more to do with someone else taking my "decisions" away from me. Some overbearing stylists have a vision of how they want their clients to look. But if I'm paying for a service, I should get what I asked for. A co-worker of mine, whose mother is a hairdresser, confided in me that "some" stylists cut their clients hair too short on purpose, because they know their clients wouldn't know what to do with a short do. And then the client would be forced to come to the salon more often and become dependent on the stylist. That's not me. I actually enjoy washing and styling my hair. I don't care for the overprocessing and the strong chemicals that many salons use. But nevertheless, I learned a lesson from this incident. I should speak up and voice my concerns and stop letting folks who don't have my best interests in mind dictate to me. Sister Zee better learn to handle her business SHO NUFF!!!

=======================
Song I'm Listening To Now:

"Mezmerized" on the "First Lady" CD by Faith Evans

Discovery's Return To Flight: Successful Landing!!!

Earth: Home Sweet Home...

After spending 14 days in space involving a canceled landing yesterday due to weather concerns in Florida, the Space Shuttle Discovery safely landed at Edwards' Air Force Base in California at 5:11 a.m. PST today. Mission Completed!!!

==============
Song of the Day:

"Benny and the Jets" by Elton John

** Side Note: I never ever knew all the words to this song, beyond the "B..B..B...Benny and the Jets" line, but I always loved the music, especially the piano and keyboard parts. Doesn't Elton seem a little crazy if anyone remembers him wearing a duck suit while performing in concert?

The "5" Things Tag List: TAG!!!

Myrah tagged me. Be sure to visit her blog. Now, I have to think of folks to tag. Hmmm.
(Caution: This may be a little tough for me, since I'm a bit of a hermit and an anti-social person, so I've been told by a couple of friends. Say it ain't so! *hee hee* But I'll still give it try anyway.)


Zee's 5 Thangs List (Doesn't This Have A Chain Letter Feel To It?)

1 Ten Years ago - I had 3 years behind me in one of Uncle Leroy's (UL) health agencies. (Side Note: I picked up the UL term from Margaret's blog.) I was a project officer for a research study and thought I was on my way in this job.

2 Five Years Ago - I thought that I wanted to become a business school professor. My old apartment was full of grad school applications and GMAT study materials. I wrote essays that led to my invitation to attend the PhD Project's annual conference. When it came time for me to decide whether to leave my full-time job (money and benefits) and to jump into grad school, I made a last minute decision to not attend business school at that particular moment, because some things didn't feel right. I discovered that I loved reading and doing research, but the "corporate" cut-throat culture didn't sit right with me. Sometimes the mechanics of business and dealmaking aren't too pretty or ethical when you are in the thick of it. (Side Note: I still have a small Enron flashlight key chain from a job fair years ago.) I'll leave that at that. But I still want to teach on the college level in something like Education or Counseling. Stay tuned!

3 One Year Ago - I was in the process of househunting.

4 Yesterday - I decided to take a 2-day vacaction from work, although I'm use to working year round with very few days off.

5 Today - I'm taking a mini vacation from work to clean up my new place and to take it easy for a change.

6 Tomorrow - I'll return to work and try to catch up on my projects.

7 Five Snacks I Enjoy - Cupcakes, granola bars, ice cream, sunflower seeds, and cheese puffs. (honorable mention: carrots)

8 Five Bands I know All The Words (err... most words) To Their Music - Earth, Wind, and Fire; Incognito; Destiny's Child; Mint Condition; and Kindred the Family Soul.

9 Five Things I Would Do With $100,000,000.00 - First, I would have to tithe to a church or split up the 10% tithe and donate it to several churches according to their missions (education, helping the poor/homeless, daycare, domestic violence, health care, etc.). Then I'd pay off the bills for my family and myself. I would go back to grad school for the love of learning and enrichment purposes. I'd send my niece to any college of her choice when she gets old enough. And I'd purchase homes for my family and myself.

10 Five Locations I Would Like To Run Away To - St. Lucia, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Egypt, and Trinidad.

11 Five Bad Habits - Not taking vacations, not realizing when I'm tired, not getting enough sleep, watching tv until the wee hours of the morning, not understanding/listening to my intuition enough (which may be the voice of God).

12 Five Things I Like Doing - I love to read, surf the net, listen to music, cook, and watch tv.

13 Five TV Shows I like - The Golden Girls, Living Single, House Hunters on Home and Garden TV, The Twilight Zone (at 1 and 1:30 a.m.), and Airline! on the A&E channel.

14 Five Famous People I Would Like To Meet - Tavis Smiley, Michael Eric Dyson, Edwidge Danticat, Chuck D, and Dr. Mae Jemison. (I wish Malcolm X was alive, because I would love, love, love to hear his thoughts on various issues of today.)

15 Five Biggest Joys At This Moment - 1. Being a child of God. 2. Having family and friends who love and care about me. 3. Although my job gets on my last nerve, I'm thankful to be employed. 4. Having an endless stream of ideas. 5. Hope for the future and good things to come.

16 Five Favorite Toys - My computer, my bookcase cd changer, car stereo, old walkman, and cellphone.

17 Five People Plus Two Who Have Been Tagged - Sepia Gem, Melette, KeKe, Marchandite (Mr.D finish creating your blog, pretty please), Margaret, and SP.
(Note To The Tagged: Please accept my sincere apology. I didn't know whom else to tag. Besides, I think you will enjoy preparing the list just as much as the people who are going to read it.)

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Song of the Day:

"1 Thing" on the "Touch" CD by Amerie

Thoughts and Observations - Updates

Procrastination (Volunteer Project): Revisited

In one of my earlier entries, I mentioned that I had decided to volunteer my time and energy towards a non-profit educational organization run by my friend and her husband. And in the entry, I also mentioned that my back was up against the wall to meet a deadline that "I" promised to deliver. I was supposed to develop a marketing plan devoted to community involvement. More specifically, this organization brings students together with educators and career professionals to help the youth prepare for their futures. Every fall the organization hosts a 2-day conference that awards kids with high grade point averages, provides academic/professional workshops, and provides a career fair. Well as an update, I did complete the paper a week later. After feeling absolutely guilty about not keeping my word and avoiding phone calls from the organization (via caller ID), one evening I made myself work from the time I got home from work until 1:30 a.m. to complete the paper. I was satisfied with my work, but it took something out of me, since my alarm comes on at 5:00 a.m.

Fastforward about a month, I'm still behind in my work due to the organization. I owe a ton of work. I have to write letters to organizations and make phone calls. And I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. I have determined that my volunteer work is a priority, but I need to scale back a little though. Instead of accepting a position as one of the marketing directors, I need to just be a volunteer who works on ad hoc projects. Many evenings when I come after a full day's work, I am completely exhausted and tapped out of energy and ideas. So there have been times, when I have gotten home to wash clothes and make dinner only to fall asleep in front of my computer. I'll just have to manage my time better, because I just can't turn away from my volunteer responsibilities. When I see our youth in deep need of leadership, direction, and compassion, I feel like I am personally responsible in some shape, way, or form. Of course, I can't save the world, but I need to be right in there offering my help. Also, by the way, check out Nikki's blog entry about her community project that she's working on for the youth in her community. On this note, I strongly encourage us all to help out when we can. This isn't unsolicited or unwarranted advice. It's just encouragement. *wink*


Space Shuttle Discovery: Update



Return To Flight

After the Space Shuttle Discovery was successfully launched on July 26, 2005, NASA officials have become concerned about a chunck of foam from the external fuel tank (the big orange one) that broke away at launch. Yesterday, the shuttle did a backflip/somersault move so that the tiles of the underbelly of the ship could be observed. Footage of the launch indicates that the foam did not strike the shuttle, but NASA officials have grounded all future shuttle missions until they are able to determine the source of the foam problem. It is unclear whether the shuttles will be grounded for a short or long period of time.

As you may remember, NASA officials believe that a piece of foam from the external fuel tank struck the Space Shuttle Columbia at launch. The Columbia astronauts were able to carry out their mission in space, but encountered a disastrous end during landing, resulting in the loss of the crew and the ship. At the moment, Discovery astronauts are carrying out their mission of delivering supplies to the International Space Station. The Discovery mission is scheduled to last 13 days, and the shuttle is scheduled to return to Earth on August 8 , 2005. NASA TV is still available for those who wish to follow NASA's updates and mission control news at the following link ==> NASA TV

Shocking News: Mother Leaves 4 Year Old Boy On The Side Of Major Highway

On July 26, 2005, a Newport News, VA woman forced her son to get out of her car along I-495, which is known by Washington, DC metro residents as "The Capital Beltway", because she became upset with her son. As a result of the the mother pulling away and driving off, the child was injured and suffered cuts and bruises. The insanity doesn't stop there, because the mother proceeded on her way and was later involved in an unrelated car accident just north of the Richmond, VA area (this is about 2 hours away from DC). Eventually, the authorities put the stories together and detemined that she was the same person who left a young child on the side of the busy Beltway. Another motorist saw the incident, called for help, and stayed with the little boy throughout the incident. Presently, the mother is being held in jail on charges of felony hit and run and child neglect.

After hearing about this story, I still wonder what this world is coming to. I want to know what in the world the mother was thinking of when she placed her baby, the one she carried for nine months, out on a busy highway. Didn't she know that zooming cars and hefty 18 wheeler trucks could have hurt or killed her baby? Did she even care? It seems like she threw her son away in the same ginger manner as a smoker would dispose of a cigarette out the car door window or the way nasty folks throw away trash on a street. The thought of all this is deeply saddening and heartbreaking. How could a child be treated like nothing? A 4 year old's world is his parents. And if his parents won't love, protect, nuture, and nourish him, then who will??? I have heard that the child has been placed in an emergency foster home. But more importantly, I hope that he will be given intensive care and attention to help him deal with this incident and love to show that someone cares about him.


Unsolicited and Unwarranted Advice: Revisited



I hate to end today's entry with a sad note, because that previous story really tugs at the heartstrings. So, I'll share some more about the unsolicited and unwarranted advice at my job. Believe me, I'm not trying to torture you with my many stories. I just thought that I would unleash them a little bit at a time. *smile*

Picking up from yesteday, as I drove home I realized why I wrote that blog story. It's because I permanently severed a friendship with co-worker "S" nearly 10 years ago. I don't do this too often. But I will cut off a person if the friendship is toxic. When I talked of unsolicited and unwarranted advice, I was not talking about constructive criticism from family and friends who "actually" love us. I speak of the busybodies who make it a full-time job to hurt the feelings of others.

An incident came to mind. I had known co-worker "S" for about a year. She worked in the next office division, and we basically chatted about her kids, husband, and religious matters. So, I thought everything was cool until I really got to know her. She made remarks about folks behind their backs as well as in their faces. However, I stayed out of that. But one day co-worker "S" and I saw co-worker "R" walking down the hall after lunch. We all knew that "R" had just gotten married to a retired supervisor's son. She looked happy about her new marriage and the relationship with her in-laws. In fact, R was preparing to go on a vacation trip with her husband and his people. R is a nice, intelligent person, who has a lot going for her. So, you know that the cattiness of others (such as from S) emerged. As we approached R, S appeared to pepper R with compliments until she got down to the issue of R's new hairstyle. She said R's braids look really nice, but her hairdresser shouldn't have wrapped all those braids into a ball on the top of her head. She then proceeded to say that the heavy ball of braids was weighing R's neck down. Next S proceeded to ADVISE R on the hairdresser she should visit, what kind of hair to use, and how to style her hair. And then S looked at me as if she wanted me to participate or laugh. I simply walked away.

I could understand S if she was advising R to get out of a burning barn or to get out of the path of an oncoming car or to provide her with tips to get a promotion. But no, S usually advised folks on things to hurt their feels. We women can sometimes be sensitive or sometimes downright insecure about our new hairdos if we are unsure of them. So, you should have seen the hurt and embarrassed look on R's face. I wanted no part in that high school bullying mess now taking place on the job between grown-ups. At this point, I realized that people do judge you according to the company you keep. And I would be judged no differently. That's why my friendship with S ended abruptly. S's attitude and actions made me feel bad, which caused me to go out of my way to be nice to the people she hurt and to put some distance between me and those situations. Of course, S with her overbearing attitude tried to get an answer out of me, but I provided none as to why she was graduated to the "ignore" list. There are just some people you can't work along with. And she is one of them. I've probably been graduated to the list of folks she talks badly about (remember me not marrying her brother-in-law), but at least I'm living life on my terms now and trying to treat folks right.

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Song of the Day:

"Planet Rock" by Afrika Bamabaataa Soul Sonic Force (1982)
**To hear a sample, click on the Windows Media, RealOne Player, or Music Sampler file formats in the middle of the page.

Unsolicited and Unwarranted Advice

Blah...Blah...Blah...And what not...
And Blah...Blah...Blah...


Preface: Please note that I believe that "advice" can be a wonderful tool to help us make important decisions, depending upon the person who doles out the advice, the motivation behind the advice-giving, and the manner in which it is given. I surely have been the beneficiary of great advice, and don't mind saying so, since I believe that it was a labor of love. Whether I asked for advice or not, some loving and well meaning folks have really come through for me. And I thank them for that.

Some suggest that advice is "always for the best." In fact, a couple of older cousins of mine engaged in a coversation battle of "One-Upmanship" a few years ago after we attended my uncle's funeral. Just as a little background information, my older brother and I were also riding in the car enroute to the Veterans' cemetery. One of my cousins was raised in the North and the other in the South. And each is a "self-professed expert" on various issues both big and small. The battle conversation involved burial arrangements. If the occassion had been a family reunion, they would have been debating about grilling techniques or etiquette. They actually get along quite well, but they just can't resist the calling of the One-Upmanship. Here's their conversation:

Antoinette (driving): When we get to the cemetery we're going to have to wait for them to set up Uncle T's casket.

Juanita: Well actually, we have to wait for the workers to set up the vault so that they can place the casket in it so many feet.

Antoinette: Well, after forty something years living in New York, I think that I should know the process in the North. I don't know what yall folks do in the South. But in New York, we do things this way. *holds heads up...thinking she got the last word*

Juanita: Well, you don't have to catch an attitude. I just wanted to properly educate you on the process. I worked with Aunt P who was an undertaker. And she said that the vault is used. I have specific education in this regard. *holds head up higher...rolling her neck thinking she got the last word*

Antoinette: There you go again with that attitude mess. But what you don't know is that I'm above that. I've evolved. I just want YOU to know about things so that you won't be walking around spouting incorrect information.

Juanita: Now, now... I wouldn't feel right within myself if I didn't help you to see a brighter day, clearer skies, and bluer waters. Afterall, I'm only concerned about your self-development and welfare.

Antoinette: I know that you want to win this conversation and show off in front of folks, but I really care about you as a person and I would be remiss in not calling you out on your wrongness. I'm telling you for your own special benefit.

Blah...Blah...Blah...This back and forth action went on for a while. But they were back on good terms within an hour. All this was done in fun and jest. So all was good in the neighborhood. Family can sometimes get away with that, but then there are others... Shall we proceed?

When The Foul Winds Of Unsolicited And Unwarranted Advice Blow Your Way, Tell The Miss or Mr. Know-It-Alls ==> To Shut Their Beaks!!!


Doesn't "so-called advice" usually start out like the following:

I don't mean to get in your business, but...

I'm not trying to tell you what to do with your life, but...

I'm only telling you this to help you out.

I started not to say anything, but...

Many times you can be minding your own business at your home, office, car, store, or somewhere else, when "Miss or Mr. Knowy Butts" will walk up or call you to offer their "so-called sage words of wisdom." Many of these folks are not family members or close friends. Usually they are "associates" at the most. They feel like their wisdom is red hot. So quite natually they can't wait to get this off their chests. They are the so-called experts on apparel, food preparation, home buying, car purchases, hair color, hair styles, home decor, home repair, dating, marriage, separation, divorce, child rearing, sex (normal and abnormal *frown*), rocket science, Multivariate Data Analysis, Atmospheric/Oceanic Meteorology, Euclidean Geometry, Atomic/Plasma Physics, Mysteries Behind the Double Helix, Jet Propulsion Systems, Thermal Engineering, and so on and so forth. All this posturing may serve as a mask for their jealousy of others.

The only problem with these experts is that they focus so much energy and time on educating and enlightening us that their own lives, families, and homes are all out of whack. At the very least, they should make sure their stuff is together before they try to put us in check or on blast. Over the years, I've encountered most of this most annoying bevhavior at my job. I bet some of these employees just can't wait to race their cars into the parking lot first thing in the morning, so that they can run up the stairs to inform us all on the finer points of life. In their eyes, there can never be enough advice to give. But at the same time, they "refuse" to receive advice. It's just a one-way street for them.

As a former quiet person, I use to endure these quasi educational sessions. I would smile and nod as if appearing to be interested. All the while, I would be wondering when this person would stop and mind her own business. Such an incident happened, when a co-worker of mine decided that I should meet her brother-in-law. The only thing is that she didn't tell me. Instead she gave him my home phone number without asking for my permission. But she informed me the next day, that her brother-in-law, who was 15 years older than I was at the time, was going to me calling that night. She was ADVISING me to meet her brother-in-law with intentions to marry him, although she and her family thought he was a little weird. She actually told me that if I married him and had a baby with him, possibly this would solve his weirdo problems. Now ain't that blip? I decided not to act a fool when the phone rang, because I felt sorry for the guy. He had gotten roped up into a situation without his knowledge as well. Mrs. Know-It-All didn't know that her brother-in-law and I were incompatible. He dutifully called me for a while, and I engaged in polite conversations. He was interested in the stripe that he was going to paint on the side of his car. And I wanted to talk about a political round table discussion I had seen earlier in the day on tv. Frankly, he wasn't interested in my interests, and I didn't know a thing about cars. So, this thrown together situation quietly fizzled out (after I politely and humanely told that guy what our fate was). After things ended, she said, "See the Lord sent you a good man and you didn't want him." If she knew anything about me, she would know that I prefer guys who are intelligent types classified by popular culture as nerds and geeks. I would have a ball at an engineers' conference. For sure!

That was ten years ago. Today, there is no way that I would let anything like that get that far. I place Knowy-Butts and Know-It-Alls on ignore or on limited communication status when they start to get wild. I wonder what took me so long to develop my technique.

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Song of the Day:

"Back Stabbers" by The O'Jays