Congratulations, Cousin Erica!

I think the title says it all: Congratulations, Cousin Erica!

This afternoon, I watched my cousin, Erica Denise Freeman, graduate from Volunteer State High School in Nashville, Tennessee—and I also want to point out that she was the second of 99 graduates. Yes, y’all—Cousin Erica was the salutatorian of her class, and I couldn’t have been happier for her.

However, the biggest surprise for Cousin Erica—and all of us, for that matter—was yet to come.

Y’all, I beared witness (or bore witness) to a very sweet Hallmark moment. Just as everyone received their high school diplomas, the principal called for Erica to come back on stage. The rest of us watched curiously as the principal instructed Erica to close her eyes. When she did so, a tall man in a soldier’s uniform appeared on stage and stood behind her. Immediately, Cousin Jade and Great Aunt Reesie started crying. I was still a little lost, but it all became clear when the soldier took the mic and said, “Congratulations, Baby Girl!”

It’s was Erica’s dad (my cousin), Sgt. Keith Freeman—he’s back home for good!

A little backstory: Cousin Keith was sent overseas to Afghanistan five years ago. The last I remember hearing from him, it was around our last family reunion. He had called to tell us that he would be coming home soon, but he didn’t know when his deployment date would be. Obviously, his deployment date was sometime earlier this week because he showed up in a big way, and the priceless look on Cousin Erica’s face was one that I’ll never forget. I already know that her dad’s return was the ultimate graduation present—hell, I couldn’t help but cry tears of joy for Cousin Erica… and y’all know that we took a great big family photo as well!

It goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: Welcome Back Home, Cousin Keith!

You know, it’s moments like these that make me feel all warm and fuzzy. I’ve always loved “feel-good” moments, and when such a moment is experienced personally, it is that much sweeter. Looking back on it now, I am just grateful to have experienced two celebrations in one. Make no mistake about it, y’all—what I experienced this afternoon more than made up for missing Cousin Calvin’s graduation back home.

And speaking of back home, y’all already know the dilly-o! Nothing more needs to be said, nor do I need to remind y’all of what’s taking place tomorrow. I will say this, though: I already know that I’m gonna have a helluva summer vacation!

I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow when I return to Cali, but in the meantime in between time, y’all take it light!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Wrappin' It Up, Tho!

Well, let’s just cut right to the chase and let the cat out of the bag, y’all: Not only have I passed my summer school courses, but I have also received a perfect score on both of my papers!

Y’all know what this means: PARTY-HARDY, Y’ALL—TIME TO CELEBRATE UP IN THIS PIECE!!!

And speaking of which, I am officially two days away from my big return to Southern California. I’ve been checking the Weather Channel, and from what I see, L.A.’s gonna be some kinda warm upon my return. In case y’all haven’t figured it out, I’m crazy about warm summer weather—and it looks like I’ll be wearing my lavender dress with matching shoes. I’m wondering if I should wear a jacket on the plane… yeah, I better take a jacket; Heaven only knows that I might get cold on the flight.

While it’s yet on my mind, I want to thank Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth for taking time out of their busy schedules to help me with the stuff that I’m leaving here. I also want to give a special shout-out to Ruby’s uncle Harold—who reminds me so much of my Uncle Ronnie—for helping out as well. It’s like my Gramma Jewel once said: “Even Simon the Cyrenean helped Jesus carry the cross to Calvary a little of the ways.” I already let the Hudspeths know that they should expect a Los Angeles style gift from me—straight from this ol’ heart-a-mine.

And yes, I am aware that I’m talkin’ like my Gramma Jewel—that ain’t nothin’ new!

In other news, though, I get to go to my Cousin Erica’s high school graduation in Nashville tomorrow, seeing as how I am officially done with Summer School. And check this out: I will be staying with my Auntie Gladys until Saturday; she’ll be picking me up around 8:30am CST tomorrow morning, and we’ll be heading out to Nashville at around 1pm that afternoon. Erica’s graduation doesn’t start until 3pm, so we’ll be there pretty early.

And of course, today is the last day that I see my homies Ruby and Theo. As promised, the three of us are going to hang out at Pizza Hut this evening. I can tell y’all right now—I’m really gonna miss Ruby and Theo when I go back home, but we’ve got the whole sophomore year to kick it again. You know, there’s an old saying that goes: When you find at least one good friend, you have found a treasure. Well, I know that I’ve got a lot to learn yet in this life, but I know for a fact that God has blessed me with a good friend—dare I say, a sister—like Ruby Jean Hudspeth. And y’all already know that the Theo Campbell, the Neo Man himself, is the brother that I’ve never had. I already told them that we’ve got to take a couple of pictures before we go our temporary separate ways… and of course, we gotta check on each other at least once.

Well, I guess I had better wrap up this blog and get back to tying up these loose ends, but you will definitely be hearing from me on tomorrow; it’ll be after Cousin Erica’s graduation, though. And I’ll be sure to give you some highlights of what went down in Nashville. Like I made mention on last week: Since I couldn’t be able to attend Cousin Calvin’s graduation back home in Long Beach, I can at least attend Cousin Erica’s, especially since I’m out here for another couple hours.

And since there’s nothing else to write today, I shall bid you all adieu!


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Tick-Tock, Tick-Tock... TICK-TOCK!!!

Hot Damn, Y’all—It’s Wednesday!

Yes, I know that’s a totally different introduction from the norm, but if y’all were in my shoes, then you would understand my excitement. You see, in addition to everything else, I am now just three days away from making my grand return to Los Angeles, California! I’m so excited and I just can’t hide it… why does that line sound so familiar? But anyway, I’m just tickled pink (WHAT), overjoyed (WHAT), thrilled to pieces (WHAT)… I’m freakin’ happy, is all!

For those of you who have never watched “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and his “WHAT” segment, just go to YouTube and type “Stone Cold” and “WHAT.” Then and only then will you understand where I’m comin’ from.

And now, back to the lecture at hand.

Notwithstanding my return to the Golden State, I want y’all to know that I have finally completed both of my final exam papers for the courses that I took in summer school—sorry, I am just too exhausted to type the names of the course I took all this month. Anyway, all I have to do is turn them in on tomorrow, but other than that, I’m pretty much in the clear. I don’t know if I mentioned it or not, but I’ve pretty much lu… I know better than to say “lucked out.” Given that I grew up in a Christian home, I know to say that I am truly blessed to just turn in my final exam papers on tomorrow and be done with it. Here’s the caveat to such a simple rule, though: I’m not so sure what my 8am instructor will do, but I do know that my 10:30am instructor is gonna grade the papers in class; he’s gonna call each of us individually in his office and tell us how we did in class and on our papers.

All I know is this: I put my whole heart and soul in these final papers. I took what I learned in class and just tied it in to how passionate I am about teaching. It is my prayer that both of my instructors catch on to that. I’m sure they will pay attention to the depth of my heart and passion for teaching and how I weaved it in with the courses. With that said, I’m not saying another word about it—I’m puttin’ it all in His Hands!

Have Your Way, Lord—Have Your Way!

Well, now that I’m technically done with everything, I gotta get my stuff situated to where I can take it over to Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth’s house for storage. I am very appreciative to them for keeping the stuff that I won’t be taking back home—I definitely have to give them a token of my appreciation when I head back home. Matter of fact, I’m gonna put that on my agenda right now... and of course, I gotta have one last lunch with my fellow Rustites, the Ruby Red Chick and the Neo One himself.

As y’all can see, I still have a lotta stuff to do. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Just Four Days Left, Y'all!



My ultimate goal, in just four days, Baby!

Happy Tuesday, Everybody!

Well, y’all—it won’t be long until I, Natasha Renee Stewart, head back to L.A. for the summer. I just have to get through the next four days, and I’m in the clear.

If y’all don’t mind my saying: WHOO-HOO-HOO!!!

I’m tellin’ y’all, I have not stopped smiling since I woke up this morning—and check this out: I don’t have any classes tomorrow! My respective instructors gave us a “cheat day” to use only for writing up our final exam papers. As I may have mentioned the other day, I already have a headstart on my Physical Education for Children paper; I just need a great ending paragraph and I’m set. As for my Principles of Early Childhood Education paper, I just need a proper introduction… talk about opposite ends of the spectrum!

I’m not at all worried, though—I’ll think of something, with The Good Lord to help me.

And as far as to where I can store my stuff until I get back, I am happy to report that Ruby’s mom and dad have graciously volunteered to hold on to my stuff until I return for my sophomore year. If I may take a quote from my Gramma Jewel: “The Lord is just sho ‘nuff good, Baby—He’s too good for my good!” I am truly grateful to God for the Hudspeth Family, and… I’m sorry, but I’m a little overwhelmed right now. I just thought about what my pastor back home in Cali said: “Even in this present day and age, The Lord still continues to provide rams in the bush for those who truly believe.” I believe the name of Pastor Clark’s sermon was “The Bank of Faith & Trust.” Well, anyway, I am forever grateful for Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth for looking out for me; besides, they explained that it made no sense for me to drag and lug all my stuff to my peeps in Memphis, especially when Olive Branch is “just around the bend.”

Now, that’s whatcha call “more back-up than reverse,” Baby!

Well, that’s all the news that I have for today. If y’all will excuse me, I really need to cut today’s blog short, mainly because I’m working on my two papers. With that said, I shall holla at y’all sometime tomorrow, but until then, y’all take it easy, and remember to keep your girl lifted up in prayer.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Memorial Day with the Hudspeths

Greetings from the Hudspeth Household, Everyone!

That’s right, y’all—I’m enjoying Memorial Day with Ruby and her parents. You see, what had happened was: Mrs. Hudspeth called the dorm and actually asked to speak to little ol’ me. Y’all shoulda seen my face when Ruby handed me the phone and said that her mom wanted to talk to me. Nevertheless, I got on the phone and spoke with Mrs. Hudspeth, and she didn’t waste any time with me.

“Sweetie, you needn’t look no further for Memorial Day than right here in Olive Branch. Vernon and I will be lookin’ for you and Ruby around 2pm.”

And the rest, as they say, is history!

Here’s the most amazing thing, though: For some reason, I knew that Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth would be cookin’ at least a little somethin’-somethin’ for Memorial Day, even if it was just hamburgers and hot dogs. Well, even as I write this blog, I can tell y’all that Mr. Hudspeth still makes a mean brisket. I’ve got lunch for the rest of the week now… well, at least until I return to L.A. in five days. Then again, knowing me, I’ll be sneaking bites of brisket and making sandwiches all day, and I’ll be out of food by no later than Wednesday… I’m just sayin’.

Well, I had better get back to chillin’ with the Hudspeths on this Memorial Day, but I’ll be hollin’ at y’all tomorrow. And lest I forget, I want to throw out a public service announcement and say that I appreciate our brave men and women who go above and beyond the call of duty to protect us everyday.

Happy Memorial Day, Everyone!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Officially Seven Days Left!

Hi, Everyone!

We are just seven days away from the greatest spectacle to ever take place in Southern California’s history. No, it’s not WrestleMania, nor is it the Aurora Borealis. Hell, it’s not even my college graduation; besides, that’s not for another three years. Next Saturday, June 1, 2013, is a special day for a wonderful woman—Mrs. Susie Douglas, otherwise known as Mrs. D!

Hahahaha! Gotcha, didn’t I?

Y’all already know that I’ll be returning to L.A. next Saturday—that ain’t really nothin’ new. My Southern Cali return notwithstanding, Mrs. D will in fact celebrate her 54^th birthday, and I would be remiss if I didn’t get her at least a birthday card. I know that purple and fuchsia are her favorite colors, and she also loves strawberries and pineapples… and there goes that lightbulb in my head again! I’ve got the perfect gift for Mrs. D—I’ll just have to ask my mom and dad if they would buy it for me.

I would tell y’all what it is, but I don’t wanna risk the chance of Mrs. D reading this blog—I’m just sayin’!

And speaking of my return to Cali (that’s right—I’m still talkin’ about it), I took a look at my flight schedule, and I’m leaving Memphis at 8am CST, and arriving at LAX around 10:20am PST. Y’all should see me as of late, and Ruby is my witness: I’ve been watching the Weather Channel for about a week now, just to keep abreast of what to wear when I return to the Golden State. I haven’t seen the 10-day forecast just yet, but you know that I’ll be watching this evening. And heck—even if I miss it today, I still have until May 31.

Oh, shoot! Speaking of May 31, I gotta see where I can store my excess stuff, seeing as how I will be back in three months. I can always call Auntie Gladys or Great Aunt Donna to hold some of my stuff—I sure as heck don’t want to leave a burden of stuff on one individual. Oh, and as far as who my roommate will be for my sophomore year, I needn’t look no further than my “sista from anotha mista,” Ruby Jean Hudspeth. That’s right, y’all—we talked all about it all last week. She actually brought it up; she says to me, “You know, Tasha, if I had to choose between you and a new roommate for my sophomore year, I would choose the lesser of two evils.” I knew there was a joke in there somewhere, so I said, “Well, I guess we won’t be roommates come the 2013-14 school year!”

And we both busted out laughing!

Well, y’all—that’s gonna just about do it for today. Incidentally, I may not post a blog on Monday, seeing as how that is reserved for Memorial Day. You will hear from me on Tuesday, though, so y’all just keep it tuned right here. Until then, however, y’all take care and be safe.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

The Return of Friday Freestyle

Hi, Everyone!

Back by popular demand—and mainly because I don’t really have a real topic in mind—here comes Natasha’s Friday Freestyle… or Natasha’s Freestyle Friday, whichever one y’all prefer!

So, seeing as how today is Friday, I officially have eight days left until I make my grand return to Los Angeles, California, a town that has truly been good to me. I talked to my dad this morning, and he says that the party that he has planned for me next Saturday is still on and crack-a-lackin’; the only caveat is that Gramma Jewel has not made her mind up as to whether or not she will be assisting with Sapp Elementary’s Eight Grade Class of 2013 on the day of my return. As y’all know, Gramma Jewel has been volunteering a lot of her time at Sapp Elementary, and I know that she enjoys every minute of it on account of because I can hear it in her voice when she talks about “those sweet little kiddies” and her “fantastic, frantic faculty members.” Yes, indeed—Gramma Jewel is enjoying Sapp Elementary, maybe even more so than Grampa Clark… and that’s what makes this so ironically delicious!

You know, I asked Gramma Jewel if she ever thought she’d see the day where she would cement her own personal legacy only after Grampa Clark cemented his. Well, Gramma Jewel—in her true form—simply said: “Tasha-Baby, ain’t no tellin’ what woulda happened. Ain’t no right or wrong answers in this life; alls we gotta do is play the cards that were dealt to us. Personally, I woulda never guessed, even if I was as old as Methuselah, that I would be workin’ up at Sapp Elementary, but it’s perfectly obvious that all-a-this was in The Lord’s Perfect Plan—and I’m enjoyin’ every moment of it!”

And it’s because of Gramma Jewel’s responses that I still wish to be like her when I grow up!

What else is going on in the news? Oh, yeah—I talked to my Cousin Calvin yesterday evening. He thanked me for dedicating this past Wednesday’s blog to his commencement celebration. I asked him how it felt to have finally earned the title of alumnus, and he was quick to say that it sunk in, but it hadn’t sunk in. He also mentioned that he ran into Ray Hernandez… and my heart liked to have jumped out of my chest. He said that Ray simply congratulated him for achieving his Bachelor’s Degree, and that’s when he noticed my mom and dad. And of course, Gramma Jewel acknowledged my sweetie pie as only she could: “Hey there, Ray-Baby!” and then Mother Davis and Cousin Nessa put in their two cents, but check this out: Cousin Calvin then goes on to tell me that in the ten minutes that he talked to Ray, he could tell that he was “all the way live.” For those of you who don’t know, that’s Calvin’s way of saying that he thinks Ray is cool. However, Calvin is still a little protective of me, which is really sweet.

Well, I guess I had better close this blog and get back to studying for my finals… actually, check this out: The final exams consist of writing papers—talk about a blessing and a half! So, since I’ve already started on my Physical Education for Children paper, the plan is to finish that up no later than tomorrow, and then use the final week to work on my Principles of Early Childhood Education final. Like I’ve been preachin’ for the last five months: If I wish to shape the lives of these children, then with The Good Lord to help me, I’m gonna be the best damn kindergarten teacher in the world… pardon my language!

Y’all have a good rest-of-the-day, and I’ll be sure to holla back tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

An Early Gift Before Final Exam Time!

Hi, Everyone!

When I tell y’all that I am surrounded by good fortune, y’all betta believe it and take it to the bank!

So, today in my Principles of Early Childhood Education class, my instructor told us that he was giving us an early Christmas present. Upon hearing this, I completely forgot that I was in class and shouted: “Oooh, a present!” Of course, this resulted in laughter from my classmates and my instructor, and heck—even I chuckled a bit. Anyway, my instructor said that our final exam would consist of a five-page paper in which we discuss which of the various principles describe us as future teachers. My instructor also went on to say that he will move our final exam to next Thursday, May 30, 2013.

Ain’t that good news, y’all? And y’all already know what this means: I can get to go to Cousin Erica’s high school graduation next Friday!

You know, here’s what’s funny: The other day, when I was on the phone with Gramma Jewel and I was telling her all about my “dilemma,” she simply chuckled and gave me some of that grandmotherly wisdom of hers. She simply said: “Tasha-Baby, don’t forget to remember what Paul told us in Romans 8:28.” Instead of picking up my Bible to read it, I recited it word for word that all things worked together for the good of those who love The Lord, to them who are the called, according to His Purpose.

“And what did Jesus Christ tell us in Mark 9:23?” Gramma Jewel asked.

Now, that verse I had to look up, but the latter part of that verse says that “all things are possible to them that believe.” When I answered the follow-up question, Gramma Jewel simply told me to “keep on believin’, Baby, and in God’s Own Time, He’ll grant you your heart’s desire.”

Well, I don’t have any shame in admitting that I have several heart’s desires, but in the meantime, I will be quite content with this current desire; after all, isn’t it in Matthew 6 where Jesus tells us not to worry about anything on account of He’s got this? And yes, y’all—I have been readin’ the Bible for myself. Everything that Pastor Clark has preached up in that pulpit (that I’ve paid attention to, anyway… LOL!!!) is backed up in God’s Word.

I read it for myself, y’all—and Pastor Clark sho wasn’t lyin’!

Well, anyway, seeing as how I’ve got all this extra free time, not to mention that there is no class for me at all tomorrow, I’ll do like I always do: I’m gonna take advantage of this time and study for my finals. Yes, yes, y’all—it’s time for me to morph into… Serious Natasha!

I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow. Take care.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

An Open Letter to My Cousin Cal

Hi, Everyone!

Today’s blog post is very special, as I am dedicating it to a special someone whom I love like he was my big brother. Today’s blog post is an open letter to my cousin, Calvin James Cunningham.

What’s a-buzzin’, Cuzzin!

Well, it took about four years, but we’ve finally made it. This is your day, Big Cal—enjoy it, embrace it, and if need be, embellish in it. You have worked so hard to get to where you are today, and I want you to know how proud I am of you. Maybe I shouldn’t use the word “proud” on account of its context (especially since we know that The Lord does not appreciate proud people), so I’ll just change my wording a little bit and say that I share in your celebration… oh, hell—I’m proud-a-you, Cuz! I’m sure it wasn’t easy maintaining a 4.0 GPA, but you sure as hell made it look easy, and for that alone, I have even more respect and admiration than I did before.

I also want to thank you for being one of many academic examples in my life. You have taught me not only to continue my education, but also to persevere in everything I do. And while it’s on my mind, I wanna thank you for supporting my dream when I was little; you were the best “student” to ever graduate from my school—highest honors all the way!

On an even more personal note, I sincerely hope you further your education and go to grad school so you can get your Master’s, but if you feel like you need a break, then by all means, go ahead and do so. In this first year at Rust, I already know from experience that this phenomenon known as “Academia” comes with a price—and you already know that I’m lookin’ forward to this summer.

Well, I’m sure that Auntie Cherri, Uncle Alex, Cousin Nessa, Gramma Jewel, and Becky are cuttin’ a shine and cheerin’ like crazy, and if I were there, I’d definitely join in and start a “Big Cal” chant because you truly deserve it. I still wish I could be out there to help you celebrate, but I’ll do the next best thing and throw you a party out here with my peeps. Oh, and I’m sure that Auntie Cherri and Uncle Alex are gonna take plenty of pictures.

Once again, I wanna say: Congratulations, Cousin—I love you lots!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Countdown Continues...

Hi, Everyone!

Today is Tuesday, May 21, 2013, and y’all already know what that means: In 11 days, I will be making my return to the Golden State.

I’m just about done with my itinerary, but I’m taking a break right now so I can work on what to wear when I go home for the summer. I am truly amazed at how this summer semester has just relatively whisked by. I mean, it seemed like yesterday it was May 1^st, and now all of a sudden it’s three weeks later? Where does the time go?

In any event, it will be a wonderful feeling to be home for much longer than I was around Christmastime. I can’t wait to hit up the old stompin’ grounds again—Santa Monica Pier, Auntie Cherri & Uncle Alex’s house, practically every Southern Cali mall within a twenty-mile radius of me, and of course, I gotta holla at my girl Gramma Jewel. The only reason why I didn’t mention Mom & Dad is because they’re in a class all by themselves. And I may as well go ahead and admit that I’ve been craving a double king burger with chili cheese fries for the last five months.

Y’all already know what that means—Fatburger, here I come!

Well, in other news, Cousin Calvin is all set to graduate from Cal State Long Beach tomorrow. Due to the fact that he is a business major, his ceremony will be at 5pm. I called him last night and wished him well. I also told him how much I regretted not being able to see him graduate tomorrow. “I wish you were graduating on June 8 or something—you know, so I can be there to cheer you on,” I moped. Cousin Calvin chuckled and told me not to worry about it on account of Uncle Ronnie and Auntie Brenda wouldn’t be able to make it as well, and neither would most of our cousins. And besides, according to Cousin Calvin, each graduate was given ten tickets a piece. I already knew that Auntie Cherri, Uncle Alex, Cousin Nessa, and Gramma Jewel received a ticket—that’s four right there. Now, Becky made mention of going (that’s five), and I talked to Mom & Dad this morning before my 8am class; they confirmed that they’re going as well, so that’s seven.

Three tickets remain. Whichever one of my family members gets a ticket, I want y’all to do like that song we sing in church and… Remember Me!

Well, that’s gonna do it for today. I’ve got to work some more on this final exam paper. I’ve also got to study for my other class… that’s so sad that I forgot the name of it (ha-ha-ha), but I know that I’ve got to study for it. My instructor said that everything we learned since May 1 is gonna be on the final, so y’all know that I’m gonna study like I ain’t never studied before.

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Why Is Physical Education Important for Children?

Hi, Everyone!

So, here we are on a beautiful Monday, May 20, 2013. Y’all know what that means: We are officially twelve days away until I make my grand return to the sunshine, the beaches, the Hollywood sign—my hometown of Los Angeles, California.

So, I just got out of my Physical Education for Children class, and check this out: My instructor informed the class that our final exam is to type up a five-page paper on the importance of Physical Education for children. Of course, I’ve got to cite references and make a cover page and stuff (which is all good), but I think my instructor wants to know if I will really make for a great kindergarten teacher. I’ve already boasted (for lack of a better term) that I have the heart, the drive, and the desire to be as great a kindergarten teacher as my Grampa Clark, and now is my opportunity to back up my talk with my walk.

Seeing as how I’m in the library and awaiting my 10:30am class, I’m taking advantage of this time right now and researching some websites which will help me write another A+ paper. I just found one website, that has a cute photo of some children engaging in various physical activities, and it lists seven reasons why physical education is important for children. One reason why P.E. is important is because it promotes a physically active lifestyle. I’m sure that no child wants to be sedentary, because that will cause serious health problems…

Wow! This is some good stuff! I think I’d better print these few pages while they’re fresh on my mind. Matter of fact, I better get started typing on my final exam paper for this class. Whatever I get done today will be an early advantage because I’ll be way ahead of the game.

I sure hate to cut this short, but y’all oughta know me by now—a sista’s gotta strike while the iron is hot! With that said, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Recognition At Its Finest

Hi, Everyone!

I’m sitting here reflecting about the lessons that were taught to me by my parents, aunts and uncles, and my grandparents. Of all the lessons they taught me, the “number one hit” in our household was: Stand Out!” I was always told that people are watching what I do and listening to what I say, so I should take care how I conduct myself in public and in private.

Well, y’all—my family was right yet again!

So, I was chillin’ in the lobby of Emma Elzy, just listening to the quiet of it all. If anything, I was daydreaming, but I kinda nodded off and went to sleep for a moment. I decided to get up and head back to my room, if for nothing but to take a nap.

As soon as I was about to close my door…

“Tasha, wait up a minute—I gotta talk to you!”

It was my fellow classmate Judy Gibson (see the blog post from January 17, 2013). I really didn’t feel like entertaining company, but I decided to see what she wanted and/or needed.

“Girl, you keep it a-hunnid, don’tcha?” she said excitedly. “You know, I’ve been watching how you carry yourself, and I just wanna say that I appreciate you.”

“Thank you,” I grinned.

“I mean it,” she continued. “Most of these heffas around here act all fake and siddity, but not you. I’ve only known you for a couple of months, but I notice that you are the same person every 24/7. And on top of that, I never forgot how you prayed for my mom when she had to go to the hospital—that meant a whole lot to me. Now, you’re still corny as hell, but that’s okay; that’s part of your character. I just want you to know that you’re my hero, and again, I appreciate you.”

All I could do was smile and nod. Of course, being Vivian Jewel Jones’ granddaughter, I easily said: “Well, God Bless your heart, Honey—looks like I’m doin’ something right for once!”

It’s nice to know that someone thinks a lot of you. It’s an even greater feeling when someone shows how much they appreciate you. Like my Gramma Jewel always says: It’s all in a day’s work for The Lord’s children.

Until Monday, y’all have a good rest-of-the-weekend.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Celebrity Status

Hi, Everyone!

Well, I’ve had time to think about a conversation that I had yesterday evening with my Auntie Gloria. If you let her tell it, I am officially a celebrity. As a matter of fact, she referred to me as “Miss Stewart” on a number of occasions; she further explained that I am the most famous star she knows, especially since I have achieved so much in my freshman year at Rust.

I didn’t realize that being an out-of-state college student brought along perks of celebrity status. I can tell you this, though: Ain’t no way in the hell are you gonna see me on TMZ or the national trash tabloid papers! You see, I am not nor, nor have I ever been—and I’m sure as hell not about to become—a controversial chick… at least not on purpose, anyway. The world already considers me controversial on account of I’m a totally different chick: I’m a nice, quiet girl who grew up in a devoted Christian home, and was taught lessons on high morals and respect for everyone. Yet and still, you don’t see girls like me on the news. The world would much rather glorify someone who is the total opposite… but now that I think about it, there are some feel-good news stories—and I stress the word “few.”

I apologize for that long-winded diatribe… but then again, that is a well-known trait in my family. Hell, even the shy quiet ones say a whole lot, if you smell what I’m cookin’!

Anyway, Auntie Gloria may be on to something when she called me a celebrity. Even as of this blog posting, I am putting together my summertime itinerary, and I see that I’ve got all these engagements to attend. Gramma Jewel’s church is having their annual youth revival towards the end of June, and I am so totally planning on participating. Also, there’s Becky’s graduation from Culver City Adult School, then there’s a Fourth of July barbecue bash at Uncle Alex & Auntie Cherri’s, and of course, my sweetie pie Ray Hernandez has been patiently waiting for me to come back home. Oh, and there’s also a “Summertime Slumber Party” that Becky is in the process of putting together; she said that she had so much fun with me, Cousin Trisha, Cousin Candace, and Cousin Vanessa this past Christmas that she wants us to repeat that same success.

Well, I guess there’s no sense in trying to fight it—Auntie Glo is absolutely right! Having said that, if you all will excuse me, Dahlings, I’m due on the set… hahahahaha!

Just kiddin’—I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow, tho!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Graduation Season

Hi, Everyone!

The title says it all: It’s Graduation Season!

And seeing as how we are in the aforementioned celebrated season, today’s blog is dedicated t three graduates whom I know personally. Coincidentally, they are also in my family.

First of all, y’all already know that, in six days, my Cousin Calvin will be graduating from Cal State Long Beach, with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Y’all also know how much I would love to be out there and help him celebrate, but since I have about another two weeks of summer school, I can only send him a graduation card with a gift certificate to one of his favorite stores. I know he likes Best Buy and Chili’s, so I’m gonna do a little shopping this weekend and get a little something-something for Big Cal.

And I just thought of something: Ray also goes to Cal State Long Beach—hopefully he may meet Cousin Calvin!

Also, my Cousin Erica will be graduating from Volunteer State High School on Friday, May 31, 2013. Now, this is gonna be a dilemma because my finals are on the same day, and I can’t mess that up. If I remember correctly, Cousin Erica’s graduation doesn’t start until 3pm or 4pm (Central Standard Time, of course), and I think my last final is scheduled at 1pm. Either way, I’m not gonna worry about it, nor will I stress over it—whatever happens, is gonna happen, and it’ll work itself out in the end.

Finally, we have the icing on the cake—the “coop de gracie,” if you will: Rebecca Ann Morgan! I’m really excited for her because she has truly come a long way from where she once was to where she is now. If I gotta miss Cousin Calvin’s and Cousin Erica’s respective graduations, then that’s just gonna have to be the case. However, I cannot afford to miss Becky’s graduation; she’ll be officially earning her high school diploma on Friday, June 21. I’ll already be home by then, and I plan on helping her celebrate Jones-Stewart style!

Well, that’s gonna do it for me today. I’ll be back tomorrow with yet another blog. Y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Legacy Continues After Thirteen Years!

Hi, Everyone!

It was brought to my attention that Sapp Elementary’s Eighth Grade Class of 2013 will be graduating in about two weeks’ time. According to the calendar, their graduation is on Saturday, June 1—the exact same day that I make my grand return to beautiful Los Angeles, California!

When speaking of Sapp Elementary, I can’t help but be reminded of the legacy that my late Grampa Clark left up there. It’s no secret that my Grampa Clark meant so much to the Sappsters, and vice-versa. I remember hearing stories from several of Grampa Clark’s former students, particularly one Nikki Douglas (Mr. D’s youngest daughter), about how Grampa Clark was “simply the best—period.”

In that same light, I was reminiscing about when Nikki graduated from Eighth Grade about thirteen years ago. I was six years old at the time, but I clearly remember when Nikki and her fellow classmates—whom she later referred to as her family—dedicated their graduation to my Grampa Clark’s memory. So inspiring was my Grampa Clark that Nikki ‘nim created an actual book as a keepsake for all of us to keep. In that book was a segment that was totally devoted to Grampa Clark. They built him up like he was some sort of baseball star… heck, maybe even a wrestler. It was very well put together, and I could tell just by looking at my Gramma Jewel’s face that she was totally flattered.

As I may have mentioned a few blogs ago, Gramma Jewel is now working at Sapp Elementary, but she is cementing her own legacy. I talked to her last night, and she’s talking about attending the Eight Grade Class of 2013. It will be the first time in thirteen years that she has attended a graduation, and she’s quite excited about witnessing those Eighth Graders step it up and take it to… sorry y’all, but there’s no sense in getting around this one…

A WHOLE NUTHA LEVEL—HAHAHAHA!!!

Well, y’all, I’ll be sure to holla back tomorrow. Y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Special Message From My Daddy

Hi, Everyone!

So, this afternoon, I got a phone call from my dad, and from his voice, I could tell that he was just filled with overexcitement about something.

“It’s on and poppin’ come June 1, Honey Bee!” he said.

“What’s happenin’ on June 1, Dad?” I asked curiously.

“You’re what’s happenin’, Doll!” he answered joyfully. “In about two and a half weeks’ time, you will be making that very much anticipated return to the Golden State, your hometown—Los Angeles, California. And trust me when I tell ya, Doll: Daddy’s got some plans in store for you!”

You know, I gotta say—I am touched. My daddy is crazy about me. Long before there was Ray Hernandez (yeah, I said it), there was Benjamin David Stewart, the original man in my life… hell, he was the first man that I ever knew, and that says a whole lot. You know, my great grandfather made a big fuss about Gramma Jewel and Great Aunt Reesie, and my Grampa Clark made an even bigger fuss over my mom and my Auntie Cherri… and come to think of it, every man in my family (dating back to my great-great grandfather) has made a big ol’ fuss about the ladies. What can I say? We’re just super special like that!

Forgive me for digressing like I did, but I’m back now, and my point in all of this is quite simple: I think it’s cute that my daddy is turning my big return into some sort of a national holiday; it makes it that much better, considering that I’m a Daddy’s Girl. You know, now that I think of it, my daddy has always been cute like that—he’s a real doll, he is! He’s talking about throwing a “Welcome Back” party for me, but look y’all: He tells me that he wants me to “act like I didn’t know anything about it.” Matter of fact, he says, “I know that’s gonna take a whole lot of acting on your part, Honey Bee, but do whatcha gotta do. Hell, lay it on real thicklike if you gotta!”

And you know what—just because he’s my daddy, I will oversell the hell out of this would-be surprise party!

Well, y’all, that’s gonna do it for today. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

A Recap of Mother's Day 2013

Hi, Everyone!

I’m done with classes, and I’m here in the library, just chillin’… and talkin’ to y’all!

I want to start off today’s blog post by saying that I had a great Mother’s Day yesterday, all things considered. Ruby invited me and Theo to her mom and dad’s house yesterday. If anything, Theo and I surprised Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth when we walked into the church. Afterwards we were gonna go to dinner, but everybody and their mama (pun definitely intended) was overcrowding every restaurant this side of the Mississippi, so Mr. Hudspeth decided to follow through with his alternative: He cooked us all a steak dinner, but he went all out for Mrs. Hudspeth, and his theme all day yesterday was: “What the hell—it’s Mother’s Day!” He kept saying that everytime Mrs. Hudspeth requested something.

Ruby mentioned to me and Theo that it makes her blush when she sees her dad put up such a fuss over her mom. “He would go get water from the moon if she asked him to,” she said.

Of course, I shared some Mama Dani stories with the group. I told them about the time my mom called me an ungrateful heffa on a Saturday evening, and then Sunday morning in church, she testified that The Lord blessed her with “a wonderful, darling sweetheart of a daughter.” Naturally, I was confused, but Mrs. Hudspeth broke it down to me in a very simple way.

“You see, Natasha, those were two separate days,” she said. “And besides, you know your mom loves you. Now, I don’t know what you did for her to call you an ungrateful heffa, but you have to understand that she had a different perception of you at that precise moment. And hell, I feel where Mrs. Stewart is comin’ from—Ruby makes me wanna chokeslam her ass from time to time, but I still love her nonetheless.”

Now, y’all do know that Theo had a field day and teased us mercilessly… and Mr. Hudspeth got in some potshots as well. But hey, it was all in fun.

Well, y’all, I’m gonna cut it short today, but I shall holla at y’all tomorrow with yet another blog post pertaining to my very busy college life. Until then, have a good rest-of-the-day.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Happy Mother's Day!

Hi, Everyone—and Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, grandmoms, aunties, godmothers, and moms-to-be!

In celebration of this very special today, I’ve got to recognize a very special woman in my life. She is five feet two inches tall, and was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. Her first name is Hebrew for “God is my judge,” and her middle name is French for “reborn.” This woman is the youngest of five children, is a huge fan of The Cosby Show, and also holds the honor of being the only child of Clark and Vivian Jones to have never gotten a whuppin.

 

That’s right, y’all—I’m making reference to my very own mother, Danielle Renee Stewart!

At the risk of sounding biased, I have the most incrediblest mother in the whole, wide world. She is just a darling woman—and I mean that, sincerely. Hell, now that I think about it, I can boldly make that statement about my mom because she’s my mom! Since my debut at Rust, I’ve professed to anyone who would listen that when it comes to moms, Mrs. Danielle Renee Stewart is the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be. I admire how she handles all types of situations, be they good, bad, or indifferent. She handles each of them the same way: she’ll tilt her head to the left, nod affirmatively, and then say something quick-witted.

 

While it’s no secret that I am a Daddy’s Girl, there is a very special bond between a girl and her mother, especially when that girl’s mother is Danielle Renee Stewart. Y’all just don’t know: In the time that we have been apart, I have noticed that I am more and more like my mom in every way, from the short stature (although she is two inches taller than I) to the sweet but strong voice. I have also come to the conclusion that if The Lord were to give me an option to replace “Mama Dani” with another woman whom I would refer to as my mother, I would say: “Thanks, Lord, but I’ve stuck it out this long with the mom you gave me originally—I’m willing to go all the way.” I guess I’ve just fully realized that my mom is very, very special, and I am so grateful to God for blessing me with a wonderful mother like Danielle Renee Stewart.

 

I’m gonna close today’s blog post with a picture of my mom, on her 40th Birthday!

 

And last but not least, here’s an oldie but a goodie: Mama, this one’s for you!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha