Heavenly Motivation

Thanks for the endorsement, Grampa Clark!

Oh, wow, y’all—I just woke up from the most beautiful dream!

Check this out: Last night, I had this dream that I was enrolled in a class called “Torch Passing 101.” Now, given my reputation up here at Rust, I take my classes seriously, so that being said, I was ten minutes early for the class. Well, once the bell rang, I walked inside the classroom and found a seat with ease, given that I was earlier than normal.

And that’s when it hit me—there were no other students in this class!

As I questioned where everyone would be, a bright light shone from Heaven, and “Power of Love/Love Power” by Luther Vandross played through an intercom system. I sang along to the tune, just as my Grampa Clark suddenly appeared before my very eyes. He still looked the same as I remembered him, except his salt-and-pepper hair and mustache were a silver white. He still had his gold-framed glasses, his favorite navy blue slacks, and grey Fisk University sweatshirt. With a click of his fingers, the Luther Vandross song ended, yet he continued to sing the ending of the song on account of that was always his favorite.

I tell y’all—I was so excited to see my Grampa Clark that I hopped out of my seat and ran towards him. However, with a loving smile, he held up his hand and pointed to my seat, making mention that it was “not time for that just yet.”

At the risk of boring you all with long, in-depth details (besides, I’ve got a personal journal for that), I’ll just say that my Grampa Clark was an excellent teacher. No disrespect at all to my instructors here at Rust, but in this beautiful dream, my Grampa Clark taught me lessons that I will forever hold in my heart. He basically sat me down and told me how proud he was of me; he also mentioned how he’s been cheering me on from his heavenly front row seat, as I displayed my gifts and talents to the Cradle Roll class at my church.

Simply put, Grampa Clark said that I was born to teach, and that there will indeed come a day where I will step onto familiar schoolgrounds and shape so many young little lives that they’ll have no choice but to create a Kindergarten Teacher Hall of Fame and select me as the first inductee.

If y’all don’t mind my saying, that is one damn good endorsement.

Finally, the time came to where the bell rang and class was over. Before I left out of the classroom, Grampa Clark said that he had another gift for me. I walked up to him, and he picked me up as easily as he did when I was two years old. There we were, sharing a great big ol’ hug—and when I woke up, I felt a kiss upon my cheek.

And how apropos that today marks 17 years that Grampa Clark transitioned to Heaven. It’s kinda funny how things happen like that, but I’ll say this: If I ever needed any other kind of motivation to continue to pursue my dream, then that visit with my Grampa Clark more than did the job!

Well, I guess I had better close this blog post and get on with my day. Let me give y’all a heads-up, though: Y’all ain’t gonna hear from me until Tuesday—it is a three-day weekend, don’tcha know! So, with that said, I’ll holla at y’all in about three days. Until then, y’all take care, and may God continue to bless and keep each and every last one-a-y’all. Smooches!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Sweet Gift from My Cradle Roll Class

Look at the sweet card that the Cradle Roll class made for me!

Hi, Everyone!

I just received the sweetest, most inspiring card from Mrs. Helmsley and the Cradle Roll class at my church. Let’s just say that they have given me more than enough encouragement and motivation to pursue my dream.

The main part of the card has a picture of an eagle flying above the clouds, and below the eagle is an inscription: “God Bless You, Miss Natasha—Go Get ‘Em!” And then, Mrs. Helmsley and the little kiddies, as well as Pastor & Mrs. Clark, signed it.

I tell y’all—it’s a wonderful feeling to be loved, honored, admired, and respected.

Like I just mentioned earlier on: This is more than enough added incentive for me to keep on keepin’ on! And y’all already know that I’m gonna send a thank-you card to Pastor & Mrs. Clark, as well as to Mrs. Helmsley and my little kiddies. I am just bustin’ all over, even more so than I am when I’m around Ray Hernandez… and speaking of Ray, I had better send him a letter also; after all, it’s been a little over a week now, and I did promise that I would write him once I get fully situated. But back to the lecture at hand: I am very appreciative to my Cradle Roll class for thinking about little old me—I feel so special right now!

And I just thought about something else: My Uncle Anthony is an Eighth Grade teacher! I don’t know why I didn’t think about that, but it’s a well-known fact. Uncle Anthony has been teaching Eighth Graders for almost twenty years now. I could’ve easily used him for one of my compositions in my Grammar & Composition classes last year; he surely could have told me what it’s like to be a teacher, albeit he teaches junior high school students, but yet and still, Uncle Anthony did get his degree in Elementary Education. Well, I’ve got a feeling that I’m gonna have to write a paper about my Uncle Anthony for my Foundations of Education class sometime soon—I really wouldn’t put it past my professor.

Well, that concludes today’s blog post. I had better get going, but before I do, I want to leave you all with this one final thought: It has been said that whenever someone thinks about you in their own special way, that means that you have touched their life. Judging by this beautiful card from Mrs. Helmsley and the Cradle Roll class, I must have touched their lives.

Until next time, y’all be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Another Milestone for Auntie Cherri

Hi, Everyone!

So, I’ve decided to take a break from the norm that is known as my life, and put the spotlight on someone else for a change… hahaha!

Who am I kiddin’—I always share the spotlight with others, so that’s no big surprise.

The purpose of today’s blog post, though, revolves around a phone conversation that I had just a few minutes ago with my Auntie Cherri. If y’all recall, it was just six months ago when she saved a pregnant woman’s life, and also helped deliver the woman’s baby’s in the process. Auntie Cherri was also recognized for being a Good Samaritan at a ceremony just one week later.

Well, check this out, y’all: Here it is, some six months later, and Auntie Cherri has been asked to be the very first guest on a brand-new television show in L.A., in which she’s gonna tell her story about what happened on that fateful day of February 22.

All I’ve got to say is: YAY, AUNTIE CHERRI!!!

I feel so honored to be the first somebody with whom Auntie Cherri has called and shared the news. I’m sure she’s already told Gramma Jewel, and there’s no doubt that Uncle Alex knows all about it, but yet and still, I feel honored to have been shared this great news. I just know that Auntie Cherri is gonna make me proud, and if I know her like I do, she’s either gonna wear her plum purple suit, or her fuchsia suit. I suggested for her to wear the fuchsia suit on account of it brings out her personality a little bit more. The fuchsia suit exemplifies that Auntie Cherri is a youthful, vibrant, and sexy go-getter who can show you a whole lot better than she can tell you. I guess great minds still think alike, because Auntie Cherri chuckled and said to me: “I was gonna wear my fuchsia suit anyway, Miss Tasha!”

I sure wish I could be out there to celebrate this great milestone in my family, if for nothing but to fly out to L.A. that weekend and see Aunt Cherri answer all of the host’s questions. Oh, well—I just know that Gramma Jewel is gonna be there to represent, and I already know that Uncle Alex, Cousin Nessa, and Cousin Calvin will be there in full force. I think Auntie Cherri said that the show will be debuting in about two weeks, but I can tell that she’s both honored and excited to be the very first guest on a brand-new talk show.

As I close today’s blog post, all I’ve got to say is: GO GET ‘EM, AUNT CHERRI—AND CONGRATULATIONS ONE MO’ GINN!!!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Setting the Tone for Biblical Studies Class

Photo Credit: southheightsbaptist.com

Hi, Everyone!

So, it has been said that I treat my Biblical Studies class like a traditional 8am morning worship service. According to some of my church mem… I mean, my classmates (hahaha!), I walk in the classroom with such a different demeanor than I do my other classes. They say that I remind them of the ladies on the Mothers Board, with the exception that I don’t wear a big flowery hat. Heck, one of my classmates even said that I referred to him as “Brother Bradley” the other day.

Well, while I appreciated their observations and their compliments, I did inform my classmates that if anything, I am heavily influenced by my Gramma Jewel. After all, she is the backbone of my family—the heart and soul, if you will. And besides, when you’ve grown up in a Christian household like I have, the teachings of your elders will rub off on you in some way, shape, form, or fashion. So, when I hum a congregational hymn or make a Freudian slip and refer to my instructor as a deacon (which he may very well be), that’s just because I’m so used to being in a church setting.

For instance, when I woke up this morning, I was fussing over what I should wear on account of I wanted to look presentable and sanctified. Ruby started crackin’ up laughing upon my statement, and then I looked at her and said: Ruby-Girl, you know I don’t play when it comes to ‘chuch.’ Matter of fact, I might have to skip breakfast and just head on in because I cannot afford to miss devotion. I sho’ do hope that Deacon Thomas is gonna sing ‘This Little Light of Mine’ and then lead the prayer.”

Now, even though I was joking around, Ruby pointed out that I reminded her so much of her grandmother. She even went as far as to say that I had such a serious look on my face that I led her to believe there was actually someone named Deacon Thomas to lead the devotion. “You should be an actress in addition to being a kindergarten teacher,” she said.

Well, it goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: THAT’S WHAT I DO!!!

Speaking of doing what I do, I had better study some more for this quiz/exam for my Spanish I class, after which I’ll rest up for my Foundations of Education class this evening at 6pm CST. With that said, I’ll holla at y’all later—y’all be good!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Still Passionate About What I Do!

Hey, Y’all!

So, check this out: Yesterday evening in my Foundations of Education class, we had an icebreaker session. My professor instructed us to give our name, our hometown, our main reason for attending Rust, and what we hope to do with our major after we graduate. Well, it should come as no surprise that I was primed and ready for this icebreaker session, so much so that I started forming everything all of my thoughts in my mind.

Well, I was the eighth individual to go up next, so when my professor called on me, I could literally feel every muscle in my face—that’s how hard I was smiling! And afterwards, I took a big deep breath, and this is what I said:

“Hello to you, all of my fellow teachers. My name is Natasha Renee Stewart, and I am a native Los Angeleno; that’s right, y’all—I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I have strong familial ties here at Rust, in that my great-grandparents graduated from Rust in the classes of 1927 and 1928, respectively; my grandmother and her best friend of 60 years graduated Class of 1957; and my great aunt graduated Class of 1959. Here we are, some fifty-four years later, and the tradition continues through me. Now, after I graduate and obtain my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, I hope to return to Los Angeles and obtain a position as a loyal and devoted kindergarten teacher—the kinda teacher who is passionate about what she does, and certainly one who shows that she gives a damn about her students!”

Oh yeah, y’all—I was pumped up!  It’s kinda funny, though, because I didn’t realize what I said until after I sat down and took a breath. I ultimately apologized to my professor and the class for my outburst, to which my professor said: “Don’t worry about it, Miss Stewart—besides, you have already shown that you are extremely confident, fully responsible, and totally passionate!”

Like I’ve been tellin’ y’all: I makes it do what it do, because… THAT’S WHAT I DO!!!

Okay, y’all—it’s time for me to close this here blog post and get to studying on my first quiz in Spanish I. The test is not until Friday, but y’all oughta know me by now—I’m gettin’ a head start on studying as we speak. Me gustaría que cada uno de ustedes para decir una oración que me aplico a mí mismo y estudiar mucho para esta prueba, para que pueda obtener al menos una calificación bastante decente. Loosely translated, I am asking for y’all to pray that I study hard and apply the knowledge to memory, that I get at least a fairly decent grade.

Until tomorrow, y’all take care and be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Back to Class, Tho!

Happy Monday, Y’all!

So, here it is, another day at Rust College. I’m done with my classes—well, I’ve got my Foundations of Education class this evening at 6pm CST, but other than that, I’m done with my first three classes.

Speaking of classes, y’all know I had to turn in a three-to-four page paper in my Biblical Studies class this morning; I think I mentioned it in Friday’s blog, but I wrote about Abraham. I had actually written six and a half pages on Abraham and how God chose him to be the father of many nations. I also used examples and compared Abraham’s life to mine. Granted, I’m only nineteen years old and I am not even an auntie, let alone a mother, but I used some great examples of faith in action. I hope my instructor likes my paper because I made sure that I put a lot of my heart and soul in it.

And as far as my PRAX I Seminar class, it doesn’t sound too difficult, especially after re-reading the description of said class. Check this out: According to Page 91 of my Rust College catalog, the PRAX I Seminar class is “designed to diagnose student strengths and weaknesses in reading, mathematics, and writing (grammar and essay) and to plan individualized as well as group instruction to prepare students to pass the Praxis 1 exam, the Pre Professional Skills Test.” It sounds to me that this is more of a preparation course to take a teaching exam. Perhaps it’s known as the PRAXIS out here in the Sip, but there’s a similar test in California; it’s known as the California Basic Educational Skills Test, or C-BEST for short. I’m gonna learn all I can about this here PRAXIS, but if it’s anything like the C-BEST, then I should be alright.

And then there’s my Spanish I class. Now, I realize that it’s only Day #3 of classes, but I want you all to know that: Yo estoy haciendo bastante bien hasta ahora. In case you missed what I said, I basically said that I’m doing quite well so far. I also learned how to hold a conversation en español, but then again, I took Spanish for three years in high school, so I don’t know why I’m acting so surprised. As a matter of fact, my instructor said that I am quite well versed in the class; as a matter of fact, her exact words were: “Natasha, eres tan bien versado en esta clase que yo te debería darte un A-plus ahora, pero quiero que lo gana.”

And because I understood what she said, I simply responded: “Awwwwww, muchas gracias, Señora.”

Well, now we await my Foundations of Education class—that’s just in about two hours or so. I guess I had better rest up a little bit, then head to dinner at the cafeteria. Once again, I am soliciting your prayers and well-wishes, more so for a successful first module than a first semester. As Jordin Sparks sang in a song some five years ago: Take it one step at a time—there’s no need to rush; it’s gonna happen when it’s supposed to happen.

With that said, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow. Peace Out!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Introducing... The Tripod!

What’s the Word, Hummingbirds?

Well, it’s official: Great minds really do think alike, y’all!

Here’s what went down today: Ruby, Theo, and I finally got a chance to hang out and chill in the cut. We also exchanged gifts today, and Heaven help me if we all didn’t get a t-shirt from one another! I mean, that was just unbelievable! However, Ruby and Theo gave me an A-plus for coming up with a unique and creative group name. Effective right now, we are known as… THE TRIPOD!!!

Also, I showed them my home movie that I made over the summer. I guess it was like a movie night in the lobby of Emma Elzy Hall, because Ruby, Theo, and I ordered some pizzas and hooked up the VCR/DVD set to the lobby television. Hell, there were even a couple of girls from Elzy to stop by and check out my home movie. Of course, Ruby and Theo were teasing me about Ray, asking me about wedding bells and a house near the Pacific Coast Highway.

Everybody’s got jokes, don’t they?

All kidding aside, everyone had their own favorite part of the video. Theo admitted that he enjoyed the segment where my cousins and I portrayed En Vogue over the Fourth of July. Ruby’s favorite part of the video was whenever I featured my Gramma Jewel; as a matter of fact, Ruby said that Gramma Jewel “is the ultimate star.” In a way, Ruby is right—Gramma Jewel is a star, but she’s also a gem.

Well, I really hate to cut this blog short, but I’ve got to get going. Here’s an update for y’all, though: There may or may not be a blog post tomorrow, but either way, I want you all to have a great rest-of-the-weekend, and I’ll holla at y’all when I holla at y’all. Until next time, y’all be good, and remember to say a prayer for your girl.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Friday Freestyle: Go, Becky, Go!

Happy Friday, Y’all!

I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but this week went by so fast—it really did! Around this time last year, my first week at Rust just seemed to drag on and on, but this go-round was totally different. I guess time really does fly when you’re keeping busy.

So, as you’ve probably guessed by the title, today is Friday Freestyle (or Freestyle Friday, whichever you prefer). My Freestyle Friday blogs have admittedly been few and far between, but for those of you who are not familiar with them, allow me to explain: In this particular blog post, I pick a main topic and feature it on Friday blogs only. In today’s blog, I’m featuring my Southern Cali homegirl Becky Morgan. In case I didn’t mention it beforehand—and I apologize if I didn’t—this is a big weekend for Becky. As you know, she is attending Chamberlain University in West Covina, California, where she will be working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Child Psychology.

I only have three words to say about that: GO, BECKY, GO!!!

I sure wish I could be back in Southern Cali, just to help Becky move into her new dorm. I know she’s very excited about being a college freshman, and I would love to give her some pointers on what to expect; matter of fact, I will call her this evening and give her some suggestions, perhaps even some things that I learned in my freshman year.

Also, as it relates to Becky, it was exactly one year ago that she was discharged from the hospital after having suffered a mysterious illness. She said that her hospitalization stemmed from having collapsed on stage in the middle of what was to be her last performance. She was bedridden for a little over a month, and on the day she woke up, she could hear the doctors and nurses speaking doom over her, and she was so scared that she asked for The Lord to spare her. Well, seemingly the next day, Becky had regained her strength and her voice, and of course she was so grateful to God for restoring her that it was all she could do to keep from shedding tears of joy.

Becky, I want you to know how proud I am of you, Girl! You are truly a living miracle, and on a personal note, I am glad that you are part of my family. I also want you to know that I continue to brag about you constantly to my fellow Rustites. Just remember this: If you ever need assistance or suggestions on what to do in your college freshman year, you can always call on me; if you can’t reach me, then you know that you can call on your other cousins. In the meantime, I do wish you a very successful freshman year at Chamberlain University, and God Bless.

With that being said, I shall holla at y’all tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Day Two of My Sophomore Year

What’s the dilly-o, y’all!

First thing’s first: I want to wish my Uncle Alex a very Happy #47 today! I already know that Auntie Cherri, Cousin Nessa, Cousin Calvin, and Gramma Jewel made him feel like such a king that he is, but I’m gonna call him once I get done with this blog.

So, I’m done with classes, and I’ve got the dorm to myself for a couple of hours; Ruby’s got an evening class which counts toward her major, and I’m just enjoying the relative silence of my dorm room. Earlier today after my last class, I literally chilled in the Leontyne Price Library for a little over an hour on account of it was some kinda hot outside. It’s cooled off some, but I still have my air conditioner on full blast right now. For those of you who have never experienced summer heat… well, the best way to explain it is like this: I don’t even want my worst enemy to go to hell. Lemme tell y’all something: If hell is worse than this summertime humid heat, then I’m gonna do my damnedest not to go! I refuse to spend eternity in a place where there is no central air and ice water—I’m just sayin’!

In spite of the heat, I had a great second day of classes. Check this out, y’all: In my Biblical Studies class, my professor gave us an assignment pertaining to the book of Genesis; he gave us a figure in the Bible and told us to write a four-page report about said character. Now, y’all already know that I’m gonna have so much fun with this class, mainly because I fell in love with Sunday School over the summer; I was an active participant in Sunday School, and I coupled that with the fact that I love to teach! And by the way, my instructor gave me Abraham. Seeing as how I had some free time (especially considering that I was in the library for a minute), I did a lot of studying on Abraham and wrote down so much about him. Heck, I even compared Abraham’s faith to mine; I did so in the sense that God told Abraham to go, and Abraham went. In God’s own infinite wisdom, He sent me to Holly Springs, Mississippi, and I nervously yet somewhat boldly answered the call.

Fortunately, the paper is not due until Monday, but y’all already know me—I’m gonna have it done before Saturday.

Well, I really hate to cut this blog short, but I’ve got to do so; besides, I’ve got another brainstorm on my paper about Abraham. Until then, y’all have a good evening, and I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Back to Class

Hi, Everybody!

Well, the first day of class has officially come to pass…. I promise that it was not my intent to rhyme; that was nothing more but a pure spur-of-the-moment happenstance—hahaha!

But seriously, I had an eventful and quite informative first day of classes, and I also had a moment of clarity. Check this out: My major is Elementary Education, of which you all are aware—and I spoke grammatically correct as well. How about that? Hahahaha! Anyway, I was looking through my catalog, and I noticed that very few classes in my major have the “EDU” prefix. I was really confused as to why I had to take certain classes that I perceived had nothing to do with my major, and that’s when it hit me: If I am to be this great kindergarten teacher that I desire to be, then I’m gonna have to teach these same classes. And I took it one step further—a whole nutha level, if you will—and was reminded that I was once an elementary school student. Needless to say, after having that huge epiphany, I finally purposed in my heart to accept the challenge… like I had a choice in the first place! Hahaha!

Well, I can tell y’all now: This is only the beginning of the first module, but I’m already loving Introduction to Biblical Studies, Spanish I, and Foundations of Education. I’m still trying to get acquainted with this PRAX I Seminar class. From what I understand, this is a requirement for all aspiring teachers—and I truly comprehend that I have to take this course; I guess I’m just a little concerned on account of the title. It was barely fifteen minutes into the class, and I was already showing signs of concern. I know that I’ll do alright as long as I apply myself, but Heaven help me if I’m not the least bit intimidated. Then again, it’s only the first day of class—and incidentally, my instructor did tell us that he understood how we might be intimidated and somewhat standoffish, considering that it’s the first day; however, he guaranteed that we would do fine so long as we come to class, participate, and show him that we are dead serious in pursuing a career in shaping young minds.

Well, hell—in that instance, he ain’t said nothin’ but a word!

By the way: Seeing as how we have gone our separate ways—academically, that is—Ruby, Theo, and I will not see much of each other until perhaps lunch and dinner. And additionally, we all have to take our own respective 6pm classes this semester, so we really won’t be seeing a whole lot of each other. Oh, speaking of which, my Foundations of Education class is every Monday and Wednesday at 6pm—this is the first time that I’m taking a night class, but it’s all good. This is one of those rare times where I have a valid reason to be out at night… and I am amazed that this one gentleman in my class offered to walk me to my dorm. I was very appreciative of him, even though I kinda had my guard up a little. Let’s face it: I don’t know much about him, other than his name is Craig and he’s from the A-T-L. However, I will give the brotha some brownie points for being such a gentleman. All I gave him was a thank-you and a smile, and that was it.

Well, I reckon I had better close this blog and turn in for the night, but I’ll definitely be hollin’ at y’all tomorrow. Just remember this: Though the levels may be a lot higher and a tad more challenging, my name is Natasha Renee Stewart, and I’m here to show the world—SO BRING IT ON!!!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Getting Mentally Prepared, Tho!

Greetings from Bearcat Country, Y’all!

Yes, I have once again readjusted to the good ol’ Southern life—and on top of that, I’m wearing one of my sundresses! I’m wearing the turquoise and aqua green one, and from the looks that I’m receiving, I must be some kinda stunning. I heard a couple of the boys refer to me as a “Phenom.” And hell—even Neo Theo looked at me a couple times and shouted: “Damn, Girl—wit’cho sexy self!”

What can I say—I just make it do what it do, because that’s what I do!

Anyway, seeing as how this is my sophomore year, it’s time for me to step it up a notch, y’all. It’s been a minute since I said this, but I am fully prepared to take it to a whole nutha level… hahaha! I still desire to be a kindergarten teacher, and now that I am an upperclasswoman (hahaha), I’ve got to show the world that I’m ready to tackle my major. One of the major classes that I’m taking this module is called Foundations of Education, and from reading the class description, it sounds both interesting and fun. Now, check this out: According to my Rust catalog, this particular class “is designed to present the social, cultural, political, and historical facts and philosophical ideas which have influenced the development of modern education” (Rust College General Catalog, 2012-2016).

Like I said in yesterday’s blog: I’m here to show the world, so bring it on!

Oh, by the way: I talked to Gramma Jewel twice yesterday—once when I got settled in, and again yesterday evening. I told her that I just had to hear her voice again because it was around this time last year that she helped me get adjusted to what was once unfamiliar surroundings. Well, even though those surroundings are now quite familiar, I still miss Southern Cali. Y’all know that I’m a Cali girl and I always will be; in light of that, though, a sista’s gotsta do what a sista’s gotsta do, and what I gotsta do is get ready for class tomorrow.

Before I forget: I don’t think I’ll really get into the meat and potatoes of my major until perhaps next semester. According to my schedule, I’m taking more electives than anything. Oh, but check this out: I’m taking a Biblical Studies class this semester, and considering that I dabbled in teaching the Cradle Roll at my church over the summer—oooohh-weeeeee! Y’all already know that I’m excited to teach… I mean, take this particular class!

Sorry, I reckon I had a bit of a Freudian slip there… hahahaha!

Well, y’all—I gotta close up this post, but y’all will definitely be hearing from me sometime tomorrow. I don’t know if it will be before my classes or after, but you’ll definitely be hearing from me. Until then, however, y’all take care, and remember to say a prayer for your girl.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Business Has Picked Up in Bearcat Country!

Well, it goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway:

I’M BACK, BABY—AND NOT A MOMENT TOO SOON!!!

That’s right—I am officially back up on the campus of Rust College, and business has officially picked up! They think it’s a game, they also think that Vipress has crawled away in her den… they are so wrong, and it can’t get no more “wronger.” Now that I’m back in Bearcat Country, I’m ready to kick this thing off right. In the famous words of Dolph Ziggler: I’m here to show the world, so bring it on!

My plane arrived in Memphis, Tennessee at 7:30am CST this morning, and as soon as I stepped off the plane, I felt that warm humidity, and I started thanking God that I packed my sundresses… hahaha!  Anyway, I located my luggage and stepped outside, where I sat down and waited for Gramma Jewel’s college roommate and my Auntie Gladys. I didn’t have to wait too long, though; as I was looking around and thinking about the wonderful memories that I had made back home, I spotted Auntie Gladys’ black Toyota Corolla from a distance. I gotta admit it, y’all—I was such a chatterbox, but Auntie Gladys didn’t seem to mind; as a matter of fact, she encouraged it, given that it would take about an hour to get to Rust. Once she dropped me off, I gave her fifty dollars for gas money. In turn, Auntie Gladys gave me a kiss on the cheek, then she gave me twenty dollars back and a grocery bag filled with all kinds of food.

Goodheartedness still produces goodheartedness, y’all!

Now, check this out: Seeing as how I am a sophomore, I am now staying in Emma Elzy Hall—and no sooner than I stepped inside to find a dorm room that I heard a familiar voice call out: “Aw, look out—if it ain’t the California Vipress!”

When I turned around and saw my girl Ruby, I hugged her like I hadn’t seen her in years! After the brief little reunion, we got a dorm room and put our bags up. We did some unpacking, but not a whole lot, because we needed to head to the auditorium and get registered for our classes. Neither Ruby nor I saw Neo Theo, and we combed through that auditorium with a fine-toothed comb. Either we had missed him, or he hadn’t arrived yet. Anyway, after we had gotten registered, we went back to our dorm and started our decorating. As usual, Ruby threw a couple of jokes my way, asking me about my future husband and later questioning if I brought Southern Cali with me.

Later on in the day, we were in that rather long line for dinner, and we heard some dude yell out: “I know that ain’t none of Ruby Red and Tasha Renee!”

Yep, it was none other than our big brother Neo Theo!

As usual, we shared a big ol’ group hug, and much like I knew would happen, we were all trying to outtalk one another, to see who had the best summer vacation. We finally agreed that we all had a pretty memorable summer, but according to Ruby and Theo, I get extra points because I have my summer vacation on video. One day we’re gonna set up the VCR/DVD player in the lobby and I’m gonna share the video with my peeps.

Well, that’s all for right now. I certainly am glad to be back in the Sip, considering it is hot as hell out here. Then again, the deacons at my church say that these heatwaves ain’t nothin’ compared to life in eternal hell! Nevertheless, I am once again thanking God that I packed my sundresses and shorts. I wish I had bought a sunhat, but it’s all good.

Okay, I gotta get going—I’ve still got some dorm decorating to do, and then I gotta make some more calls back home in Cali, as well as some calls out this way. Y’all already know that I gotta call Great Aunt Donna, Great Aunt Reesie, Cousin Jade, and Cousin Erica… and I cannot forget Cousin Keith!

Until tomorrow, y’all take care… Smooches!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Until We Meet Again, Southern Cali...

Well, y’all—this is it!

This is my last day in L.A., at least until I return for the Christmas vacation.

I must say that I truly had a grandtastical summer vacation, and in addition to that, I’ve managed to accomplish everything that I wanted to accomplish this summer. And the beauty of it all: I finally finished my home movie project.

Alas, all good things must come to an end.

In a few hours, I’ll be on a plane and heading back to Rust. I’m all packed up and ready to go, but I gotta admit something: I’m gotten so reacclimated to my familiar surroundings that I’m gonna need to get readjusted to the central standard time and the college life all over again. Oh, well—it ain’t like I’m stepping into an unknown abyss. As heartbroken as I am to leave again, I know that I’ve got to do this. Besides, there’s a huge added incentive as it relates to my return to Bearcat County, and y’all already know that my homegirl Ruby Red and my main man Neo Theo have a helluva whole lot to do with that added incentive!

What can I say—I really did miss them.

Also, I want to thank Gramma Jewel for the delicious congratulatory dinner that she prepared for me, Becky, Cousin Matt, and Cousin Trisha earlier this afternoon. As usual, Gramma Jewel showed out; she made spaghetti, fried fish, fried chicken, coleslaw, green beans, macaroni and cheese, and garlic cheesy bread. And of course, she made her specialty dessert—the legendary strawberry seven-up cake! I may or may not have mentioned it, but Gramma Jewel threw this dinner in order to celebrate our academic accomplishments. “It’s a whole lot easier to tell y’all that I’m so proud-a-y’all, but I’d much rather show y’all,” she said with a smile. “And I want y’all to understand this: When y’all step back on your campuses—be it the first time, the second time, or the last time—I want y’all to learn all y’all can while y’all can, but never forget to keep The Lord first in everything y’all do. Oh, and one more thang: I love each and every last one-a-y’all!”

I tell y’all—if y’all ever need someone to give you encouragement, motivating, and uplifting words, Gramma Jewel is just that lady!

Oh, and lest I forget: Ray did keep his word and showed up to see me off—he’s such a sweetie pie, and check this out: He was no kinda shamed when he gave me yet another melting sweet kiss.

I can damn sure return back to Rust with a Cheshire Cat grin, can’t I? Hahaha!

Well, Southern Cali—it most certainly has been real! I thank you for the many summer memories that I can take with me. Yes, y’all—L.A. was very kind to me, and I’ve got something to look forward to when I come back home for Christmas. And I am so freakin’ excited that my home movie project is finally completed… I know I said that several times already, but y’all just don’t know how happy I am that it’s done! Trust me when I tell y’all: It was a lotta hard work, but it was so totally worth it.

With that said, I ask that you all keep me in your prayers for traveling grace from here to Memphis, and from Memphis to Rust. Once I get settled in, I’ll holla at y’all with a very special blog post!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Chillin' With My Sweetie Pie

Hi, Everyone!

So, I’ve not long been back from my date with Ray, and… OH MY WORD!!!

Yes, you know it’s serious when I have to take a quote from my Gramma Jewel, but I’ve got one helluva send-off from my sweetie pie today.

First of all, he picked me up around 12:30pm PST this afternoon, and nothing changed—he still gave me two lavender roses, and he gave my mom a half dozen pink roses. And check this out: In addition to giving my dad a firm handshake, Ray also remembered that my dad likes cheddar flavored pretzels… let’s just say that my dad was well pleased.

By the way: The weather was very pleasant and quite warm, so I went ahead and wore my lavender and pink sundress with matching open-toed sandals. And just in case we would be out long and it got chilly, I brought along my mom’s lavender jacket.

Oh, yeah—and I also brought along my camcorder!

Anyway, on to our date: It was kinda ironic that I brought my camcorder with me because Ray and I visited the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and he recorded me acting like Marilyn Monroe. Apparently, I have a sexy, naughty side to me, but I still kept it classy, because that’s what I do!

Afterwards, we went to California Pizza Kitchen—and I must’ve been some kinda hungry! I say that because I ordered the Caesar chicken sandwich, plus I had a couple slices of a pizza that Ray ordered. Then again, I only had a granola bar for breakfast, and that was around 8am… and then, too, Ray did say that I was welcome to as many slices as I wanted, so it was all good.

For the record, I only took two and a half slices—hahaha!

And to end the date, we went up to the Griffith Park Observatory to check out the view… and to kiss a little! By the way, history repeated itself yet again: Just like a little over seven months ago, the same security guard from last time took a picture of me and Ray. It was kinda funny because he looked us and said, “Hey there! I remember you two!”

By the way: I don’t know what it is about the way Ray holds me in his arms, but it really sends a shiver up my spine—a good shiver! I mean, I may have melted three consecutive times when he held me close.

But I digress… hahaha!

Well, that’s it for today’s blog post. I don’t need to tell y’all that I had a great time today because the proof is in the pudding. I will say this: It’s gonna be awful hard to remove the smile from my face, all things considered. Oh, yeah—I did invite Ray to dinner over at my Gramma Jewel’s, and he did make a promise to see me one more time before I left. His exact words were: “I may not be able to move Heaven and earth, but I will do my utmost damnedest to see you—as you would say—just one mo’ ginn!”

Awwwwwww, Ray is so sweet!

Well anyway, I had best get going, but I shall holla at y’all tomorrow—fa sho’!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

An Afternoon with Mom & Dad

I can’t believe it—this is the last Friday of my summer vacation. I really hope I made the best of it.

Since 7:30am this morning, I’ve been with my mom and dad all day, just chillin’ in the cut and kickin’ it ol’ skool. My dad treated us to breakfast at Denny’s and told us that we could order anything we wanted—and by the way, I wanted to bring my camcorder, but was outvoted two to one that I shouldn’t bring it into the restaurant. I adhered to my mom and dad’s admonition, but thankfully they took a couple of pictures while we were in the fine dining establishment.

After breakfast, we headed out to the mall and did some college shopping for our girl Becky. As y’all know, she’s going to Chamberlain University in about two weeks. By the time she starts school, I’ll already be at Rust. I sure wish I could be there to help her move into her dorm, but I’ll at least get to see her this Sunday over Gramma Jewel’s, so it’s all good.

Oh, that’s the other thing I forgot to mention: Gramma Jewel is cooking a congratulatory dinner for me, Becky, Cousin Matt, and Cousin Trisha. The dinner is Gramma Jewel’s way of showing how happy she is of us. Notwithstanding my return to Bearcat Country and Becky’s college debut, we’re also celebrating the fact that Cousin Matt and Cousin Trisha will be finishing up their academic year and thus will be part of the Class of 2014. Hopefully, I’ll be able to be out there to see them walk that aisle, and after they earn their sheepskin, it’s gonna be all up to me to round third and bring it home. I tell y’all—it’s hard work being the last grandchild to graduate from college, but with The Lord and my family, I can and I will go the distance. It’s an uphill slope, but I won’t lose hope—yes, y’all remember that I used that song as my theme in my speech class—but I am gonna go the distance, and I’m gonna complete this goal for both my family and for myself!

Anyway, after shopping for Becky, my mom decided to treat me and my dad to Chili’s. While we were kickin’ it and chowin’ down, both my mom and my dad were quick to tell me that they were very proud of my success at Rust. And then from out of the blue, my dad starts singing “You Are My Sunshine.” After blushing out of both embarrassment and appreciation, my mom then says to me: “Keep up the good work, Smurfette. And as far as your haters go, let ‘em hate—it ain’t your fault that you do what you do!”

When my mom is right, she’s right!

All in all, I had a good time with my mom and dad today—it really was time well spent. I’m definitely gonna get this chance before I leave for Rust, but in the meantime in between time, I gotta get fully prepared for my date with Ray tomorrow. And check this out: The weatherman said that it’s supposed to be somewhere between 85 and 90 tomorrow. Y’all already know what that means—I get to wear one of my sundresses!

Well, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow evening after I come home from my date, but until then, y’all be good. Take care and God Bless.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha