The Results of Thanksgiving 2013

Hi, Everyone!

Well, we done did it again, y’all—we’ve hit another milestone. Just in the year 2013 alone, this is Blog Post #300. All I have to say about that is simply: WOW!!!

I trust that everyone had a great Turkey Day yesterday—I know I did. Before I begin talking, though, I want to state for the record that I did buy the stuff for my rocky road brownies, but I made an executive decision and chose to make them either this evening or tomorrow. Besides, Cousin Erica and I were too busy helping Cousin Jade bake all kinds of pies and cakes… and for the record, Great Aunt Reesie did make her red velvet cake; she said that she would make another one for me to take back to the campus, so I can share it with Ruby and Theo.

Here’s what I thought was so cool about yesterday evening: As you know, my entire family is Christian, so of course we prayed before we sat down to eat. However, Great Aunt Reesie had a special request—with a big grin on her face, she squeezed Cousin Keith’s hand and said, “Son, seeing as how you’re back home for good, and seeing as how you’re also the only fella in the group, I would like for you to lead the prayer.” Well, Cousin Keith smiled back, then he kissed Great Aunt Reesie on her cheek and said, “Mama Ree, I would love to lead the prayer.”

Suffice to say, y’all, Cousin Keith prayed such a prayer that all of us couldn’t help but shout. He thanked God for helping him with his depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and for keeping him sane while he was away in Afghanistan. He also thanked God for such a loving family who constantly prayed for him until he returned. Finally, he thanked God for “such a momentous occasion—one that I will forever cherish in my heart.”

After Cousin Keith’s powerful, poignant prayer, we sat down to eat, then we shared the things that we were most thankful for. Such as it was with me last year, I expressed how grateful and thankful I was to God for blessing me with several places to rest my head other than my dorm, and not just for national holidays, either. It seems as though every year, I drive myself crazy in trying to decide where I’m gonna spend Thanksgiving or Spring Break, but I do recognize that there are so many who would love to have just one place to spend the holidays, so for that, I am grateful.

Well, y’all, it’s time to close this blog post, but I’ll holla at y’all sometime tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care, and remember that every day is a day of Thanksgiving.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Happy Thanksgiving, Everybody!

Hi, Everyone!

On behalf of my entire family, we want to say Happy Thanksgiving to each and every last one-a-y’all… hahaha!

And this is a special message from my Gramma Jewel: “The Thanksgiving holiday is just for a short while, but when you’re a Christian, EVERY DAY is a day of Thanksgiving.”

Smooches,

Natasha

Onward to Nashville for Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Eve, Everybody!

Well, here we are—it’s a beautiful, chilly Wednesday afternoon here in Holly Springs, Mississippi. I’ve already said goodbye to Ruby and Theo, and I have no classes for today, and I’ve got the next four days to myself. Right now, I’m waiting on Cousin Keith to come pick me up; he gave me an ETA of 3:30pm CST. Afterwhich, it’s onward to Nashville… WOO-HOO!!!

In the meantime, I would like to talk about my favorite Thanksgiving memory—I was only sixteen years old at the time, so it wasn’t too long ago. Anyway, this particular Thanksgiving was special to me on account of it was the first time that I ever contributed to bringing a dish. With my creative mind, I decided to make some rocky road brownies… and yes, I got idea from the main ingredients of rocky road ice cream (chocolate, almonds, and marshmallows). Anyway, my mom had forewarned me to make an extra batch, “just in case.” Well, I listened to her instructions and I made an extra batch, and just for the heck of it, I went ahead and made some extra for me, my mom, and my dad. Needless to say, my rocky road brownies were a hit! Everyone in my family made it sound like I discovered a cure for the common cold—heck, I caught Uncle Ronnie eating at least four of ‘em, and he had had two full plates of food! And to further solidify that I did a good job, my Gramma Jewel said that I managed to put both of my feet in my special dish.

And believe me—Gramma Jewel knows all about good cookin’!

Y’all know something, with all this talk about my rocky road brownies, I think it’s time for my Tennessee family to get introduced to my special dish. When Cousin Keith gets here, I’ll ask him if he could take me to Kroger so I can get some brownie mix, almonds, and marshmallows. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make an extra batch for Ruby and Theo when I return back to Bearcat Country—that is the plan, too. Let’s just pray that Great Aunt Reesie and my cousins don’t go brownie-crazy… hahaha!

Okay, y’all—that’s gonna do it for today. I may have a blog post for tomorrow, but just in case I don’t, I want you all to have a very safe, special, and fun-filled Thanksgiving holiday.

Smooches,
Natasha

Celebrating Thanksgiving Before Thanksgiving, Tho!

Good Tuesday Afternoon, Everybody!

And yes—y’all read correctly: Ruby, Theo, and I had our very own Thanksgiving before Thanksgiving celebration!

Seeing as how the three of us officially don’t have classes until next Monday, we decided to go break bread at Pizza Hut. Now, check this out, y’all: Even though we stayed and had the buffet special, we still ordered some take home platters, just in case we got hungry!

Y’all already know that I’m a cornball, so as we dined and fellowshipped (I spent way too much time in church as a child… hahaha), I made it emphatically clear how grateful I was to be a part of such an elite trio. I further commented that I will be forever grateful to Ruby and Theo for helping me with my homesickness last year. Theo chuckled and pointed out how ironic it was that I hadn’t mentioned too much about L.A., other than my conversations with Gramma Jewel. Ruby pointed out that I hadn’t even mentioned Ray Hernandez… and she’s got a point! Matter of fact, it has been a minute since I last heard from Ray, and vice-versa. Well, in any event, I expressed my gratitude towards Ruby Red and Neo Theo, and let them know that I will forever appreciate them.

Ruby then took the stand (in a manner of speaking, of course) and said that she was grateful to have—as she so eloquently put it—“the greatest roommate in the world, and a helluva sista from anotha mista.” Naturally, I humbly accepted the compliment, to which Ruby turned her attention to Theo and expressed her gratitude towards him for being the Jack Tripper to our Janet and Terri… that’s right—Ruby refuses to be associated with Chrissy; she still wants to be known as the Terri Alden of the group… hahaha!

Finally, all eyes were on Neo Theo! He basically said that he was thankful to have two gorgeous ladies who would go to bat for him. He also admitted to us that he was a great big softhearted mush, and he will never forget how Ruby and I stepped up and became the undisputed protectors of his heart… yes, those were his exact words.

Well, lemme tell y’all: If this was one of those sappy sentimental TV sitcoms, y’all would hear that corny-ass soft music, with the closing credits rolling and the studio audience applauding—and I guess that great minds think alike, because we all said at the same time: “The Tripod was recorded in front of a live studio audience!” And then we just busted out laughing.

So, to sum it all up, my peeps and I celebrated the Thanksgiving holidays a little early—but then again, it’s like my Gramma Jewel always says: “When you’re a true child of God, you don’t have to wait until a certain day, because every day is a day of Thanksgiving.”

Until tomorrow, Loves!

Smooches,

Natasha

Gearin' Up for Thanksgiving, Tho!

Good Monday Afternoon, Everybody!

First of all, I would like to thank you all for helping me celebrate my 400^th blog post over the weekend. It really amazes me how I am only a year and a half into my journey as a Rustite, and within such a short time, I have written four hundred blog posts… THAT’S PHENOMENAL!!!

And now, here we are, on a brand-new day, with Blog Post #401, and today’s topic (which you can probably tell by the subject title) is all about how I’m gearin’ up for the upcoming Thanksgiving holidays.

This year, I’m gonna spend Thanksgiving in Nashville—I think I may have mentioned that I already conversed with Great Aunt Reesie over the past month or so, and she says that she’s got my room all ready. Y’all should already know that I have a great time whenever I go to Nashville, and this year ain’t gonna be no more different… yeah, y’all heard what I said! Anyway, it’s gonna be a great feeling to hang out with Great Aunt Reesie, Cousin Jade, Cousin Erica, and our familial hero, Sgt. Cousin Keith! All I’ve got to say is: Look out, Nashville—Vipress is makin’ her way back to you, Babe, and she’s got an agenda to fulfill!

You know, I may have mentioned this once upon a time, but I still recall the very first time I spent Thanksgiving out here in the South… then again, there’s no way I could forget it, considering it was just last year; if y’all recall I spent Thanksgiving with my Great Aunt Donna… yes, the same Great Aunt Donna who can’t hold a tune if it had handles on it! But then again, I made mention in a blog post entitled “Highlights from My First Memphis Thanksgiving” that Great Aunt Donna sang a couple of gospel songs, and not one time did her voice crack. Well, I already know that Great Aunt Reesie can hold more than her own when it comes to singin’ any type of song. Don’t forget: I heard her sing “Rappers Delight” by Sugar Hill Gang, and she really broke it down, too!

Well, y’all, I gotta cut this blog post short on account of I’ve got plenty to do. Before I leave, though, I gotta mention that I had my midterms today in my Fine Arts class and my Intro to Humanities class. I think I passed—maybe not a perfect score, but I’m sure that I got at least an A- or a B+. As for my Intro to Social Sciences class, I’ve got a midterm in that tomorrow… and I’m gonna need y’all to pray for me. Matter of fact, let me go ahead and get to studyin’ now, and I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Celebrating the 400th Blog Post!

Happy Friday, Everybody!

And check this out, y’all—this is the 400^th blog post that I have written! It’s time to celebrate up in this piece… WOOOOOOOOOOO!!! Seriously, y’all: What are the odds that Blog Post #400 would fall on a Freestyle Friday? I tell y’all—it’s all kinds of celebrations goin’ on today!

Well, since today’s blog post is very special (especially when you look at the photo), I would like to say that this particular topic has actually been a long time coming, as it goes back to a conversation that I had had with Ruby and Theo a little over six months ago. According to them, my family reminds them of those lovable Huxtables; even more so than that, Ruby and Theo have christened me the Rudy Huxtable of the family. If that’s the case, then Miss Rebecca would play the role of little Olivia Kendall.

Upon hearing Ruby and Theo’s comments about my family and the Huxtables, I chuckled at first, and then I thanked them for the compliment; after all, to be compared to such a successful television series as The Cosby Show is both an honor and a privilege. And perhaps this is the teacher in me, but as my peeps ad I talked about The Cosby Show, I started pondering the similarities and differences of the Huxtable Family and my family. For one thing, I can count at least five Clair Huxtables in my family, my mom being one of them; the other four would be my Auntie Stephanie, Auntie Brenda, Auntie, and Auntie Cherri… and what the heck—for honorable mention, Gramma Jewel is the original Clair Huxtable, in addition to playing the role of the matriarchs (the grandmothers, if you will). And then, too, if we’re all playing dual roles, then my Auntie Cherri would probably make a great Vanessa, and my Auntie Brenda would play the role of Sondra perfectly. As for the role of Theo, I think it would be a three-way tie with my dad, my Uncle Ronnie, and my Cousin Calvin.

Now, outside of the fact that the Huxtables are a fictional family, one other difference—though somewhat insignificant—is quite noticeable. You see, Cliff and Clair have four grandchildren (Nelson, Winnie, Olivia, and one on the way as per the last episode), and my Gramma Jewel has eight grandchildren, of which I am one obviously. And of course, we cannot forget the legend himself, Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable. For various reasons, that role would be very well played by the legend in our family—my late great grandfather, Clark Kenneth Jones. In that same light, I would venture to say that my dad, my Uncle Alex, and my Uncle Gregory would play a damn good role of Dr. Huxtable!

Sorry for the language, Fam—but I am speaking the truth!

Well, y’all, I could go on and on with this subject, but such as that old saying, all good things must come to an end. With that said, I have been inspired to write a play or a book based on today’s blog post; I may call it The Huxtables vs. The Joneses, or something to that effect. Heck, I might even run this idea by my Cousin Lionel, and he’ll turn it into some kind of WWE Survivor Series match or something… hahaha!

With that said, I had better get started on this idea right now! Talk to y’all later!

Smooches,

Natasha

Neo Theo Is Back And Better Than Ever!

Hi, Everyone!

As you can tell by the title, Neo Theo is back to normal, and better than ever!

Allow me to explain what I mean:

Yesterday evening, Ruby and I were chillin’ in the cafeteria, and Theo walked in, all chipper and overexcited—even for him! Naturally, Ruby and I asked Theo to give us the motivation behind his extra burst of energy, and Theo simply caught a hold of us both and hugged us real tight. And then, with a great big Cheshire Cat grin (for which he is legendarily known), he says to us: “Just in case I hadn’t said it before, you two are the sweetest girls that I’ve ever come to know. I want to thank you all for not only understanding my situation, but also for havin’ my back.”

Well, Ruby and I informed Theo that he need not thank us on account of we would always be there for him… and our words couldn’t have come any sooner! Almost like clockwork, as we all were leaving the cafeteria, that tramp Olivia was approaching the entrance.

At first, Theo got a little nervous, but then he took a deep breath and made a promise that he would not give Olivia the satisfaction of renting space in his brain. He boldly held the door open for her to walk in, but for some reason she couldn’t enter, and that’s mainly because Ruby and I were blocking the entranceway. Theo chuckled a bit, then he told me and Ruby that she’s not worth it.

Ruby and I thought about it, and then we decided that Theo had a point. Now, whereas I can’t speak for Ruby, I can tell you that I was not about to sully my hands on some worthless scum like Olivia, so I stepped out of the way.

And then, just as Olivia was about to walk through the door, Theo caught a hold of her and thanked her for being the individual that she is. Upon hearing those comments, Olivia turned away… and she hauled some serious ass in the process! I mean, seriously—she zipped right past me and Ruby.

Gee, I wonder why she would be intimidated by the two of us-s-s-s-s-s-s-s-s-s-s-s? Hahahaha!

Well, y’all, that’s the latest excitement up here for now. Time for me to close up this blog post and call it a day; besides, it’s time for my Intro to Social Sciences class. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow, though.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Standing At A Crossroads

Hi, Everybody!

I don’t think it should come as a surprise to anyone, especially considering the graphic that you see before you, but yes—I am at a crossroads right now. You’re probably asking yourself: “Natasha, what tough decision are you trying to make this time?” Well, as you know, I’ve been heavily considering sorority life for a little over a year now, and the power of persuasion is very heavy, to say the least.

Of course, the decision is up to me, but I want to be sure that I make the right decision. I’ve been saying that my heart is with the Zetas, but lately it seems like everytime I run into Mrs. Nyan, she’s wearing something pink and green, and she even goes as far as to call me her future soror. And then you’ve got the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta… I tell y’all, it’s like that ol’ skool song that I heard on the radio the other day: “Mind-blowing decisions causes head-on collisions.”

And to that, I simply say: Yikes!

I know the easiest thing to do is listen to my heart, and I said that I would love to be a Zeta; however, I want to make sure that I’m joining a sorority for the correct reason. If y’all recall, I made mention last year that I wanted to be a Zeta because I would look great in that royal white and blue, but at a second glance, I would also look great in salmon pink and apple green (according to Mrs. Nyan anyway), and hell—while we’re at it, I would venture to say that the crimson and cream would look great on me as well.

But it’s more to it than that.

Well, y’all, let me close up this blog post and call it a day, but I want y’all to pray for me, that I make the right decision, whatever it may be.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Breaking The Chains of Regret

Top O’ The Morning, Y’all!

I haven’t long gotten out of my Fine Arts class, and I’ve got about less than a half hour before my Intro to Humanities class, so I’m gonna take advantage of this opportunity and holla at y’all right now.

Well, as you can probably guess by the title of today’s blog post (not to mention the humorous photo to go along with it—hahaha), I had a conversation with our homey Neo Theo yesterday evening, and from what I gather, he’s starting to kick himself. He feels that he should’ve paid full close attention to the signs, otherwise he wouldn’t be in what he calls “a regretful mess.” He even brought up the time that he called me over the summer and told me about a sudden change in the air. “I knew something was wrong then—I just did what my mom likes to call ‘play crazy’,” he said angrily. “I cannot forgive myself for being so damn stupid!”

Now, I’ve been helping Theo as much as I can with his little situation, but this time I had to drop a hammer on him… not literally, of course. I simply told Theo that he would never heal properly if he doesn’t forgive himself. Besides, the last time I checked (and I’m only 19 years old), there was only one man in history who never made a mistake in his life, and we put him to death… y’all can read about that man in the four gospels! But anyway, I had to instill in Theo’s mind that we all have regrets—some big, some small, and some in between; however, those mistakes can prove to be very valuable, so long as we learn from them. Well, upon hearing my words of wisdom, Theo acknowledged that he did learn a valuable lesson, and that he was gonna take the advice of the late great Luther Vandross and not be a fool ever again.

And by the way: I listened to the lyrics of that song—they are so powerfully deep, don’tcha know! There’s a verse in that song where Mr. Vandross says: I can’t love anybody, walkin’ on a one-way street. If I don’t find somebody, that’ll be alright with me.”

And someone explain to me why Theo broke out “sangin’” that song? Hahaha!

Okay, y’all—I gotsta get ready for my Intro to Humanities class, but I’ll be talking to y’all later. In the meantime, say a prayer for my homey Theo, that he will thoroughly break the regretful feeling that has him bound, albeit temporarily.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Helping Heal Theo's Wounds

Good Monday Afternoon, Everybody!

All things considered, it was great to be back in the salt mines today. And check this out, y’all: The madness ain’t over yet—my midterms are coming up literally next Tuesday, and that means that I’ve got some super-duper studying to do. It’s all good, though, because this all that I live for right now. My mom and dad once told me that, until I go out in the real world, my schoolwork is my job, and my grades are my paycheck.

Sounds simple enough, don’t it? Hahaha!

Well, y’all, as is evident by the title of today’s blog post, I’ve got an update on my homey Neo Theo, and it’s good news, too: It all started when I was heading to my Intro to Humanities class this morning. On my way to class, I heard Theo call out: “Hey, Vipress—wait up, tho!”

Needless to say, I was thrilled to hear the enthusiasm return in his voice. If I may quote WWE commentator Michael Cole: “Vintage Neo Theo!” Hahahahaha!

Anyway, as we walked to class, Theo reiterated to me that he sincerely apologized for his attitude over the past couple days; he stated that he just didn’t know how to handle a girl breaking his heart, and he had to isolate himself from me and Ruby on account of  he didn’t want to take his frustrations out on us. Well, I let Theo know that, while his decision was somewhat selfish, I totally understood.

Theo then went on to tell me that he was emotionally confused; he had made his mind up that he didn’t want to be a fool again, yet he admitted that he still kinda had feelings for Olivia.

Now, y’all—when Theo told me that, I instantly got sick to my stomach, but being a true friend, I let him bare his soul, and I let him know that it was okay for him to feel that way. I also reiterated to him that any real woman would be thanking The Lord Up Above for a sweet guy like him. “Do you realize, Theo, that you are a rare breed?” I said to him. “You don’t need no two-bit tramp-ass slut like Olivia; you’ve got too much class than that. And just in case you need to know how sweet of a guy you really are, let me show you.”

And I simply gave Theo a kiss on the cheek, to which he just gave me a big ol’ wide grin!

Well, it goes without saying, but I think Theo’s healing up nicely.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Helping Mend Theo's Broken Heart

Hi, Everyone!

Ordinarily, I don’t post a blog on Sunday unless I have a special blockbuster announcement or something… well, I’ve got a blockbuster announcement for y’all: After seemingly days of isolation and no contact, Neo Theo returned back to life—in a manner of speaking of sorts!

Earlier this evening, Ruby and I were chillin’ in the cafeteria, and Theo walked up to us. With a guilt-ridden look on his face, he spoke to us, and then he asked if we were still his peeps. Well, Ruby and I wanted to at least pretend that we were mad at him, but judging by the smiles on our faces, our plan was in vain. Granted, we did give him a little hell, but then again, we’ve been teasing each other ever since we formed our little group over the summer.

“Neo Theo, you know you’re always gonna be a part of the Tripod, so sit’cho ass down,” Ruby commanded.

Like clockwork, Theo sat down almost immediately, then he caught me and Ruby by our hands and apologized for his behavior in the last couple of days. He explained that he hadn’t been himself lately on account of that bitch Olivia (no, he didn’t call her a bitch—those are my words, y’all). Theo only told us that Olivia broke up with him, yet never explained why. “All she said was that I didn’t act like a real man,” he recounts. “I honestly don’t know what that meant, and I asked her to explain, but she just said that I knew what she meant. Y’all, I’m still a bit lost, but it’s whatever, tho!”

Theo then went on to tell me and Ruby that he’s actually much better off without Olivia anyway, to which Ruby and I both vocally expressed our sincere agreement. And then, maybe I was channeling my inner Gramma Jewel, but I felt compelled to sit next to Theo, give him a big hug, and say: “Now, Theo—I want you to listen to me, and listen to me good, Hon: You are much too much of a gentleman to be hangin’ around that sleazy, slimy slut. Besides, there’s a gal out there who loves you for you, and this includes your quirkiness, too. And mark my words, Theo—when The Lord destines for her to meet up with you, she’s gonna be thankin’ God for blessing her life with you. Until then, though, just know that Ruby and I will always be there for you, and that’s real damn-ass talk!”

Ruby solidified my statement by saying: “Amen to the twentieth power!”

And with that, Theo wrapped his arms around me and Ruby, and gave us each a kiss on the cheek.

Like I said from the beginning: It’s one thing to mess with me, but you mess with my fam and my peeps, it’s gonna be some surefire hell—so much hell that the captain himself will abandon ship!

That’s my very own Southern expression, if you will… hahaha!

Okay then, y’all—I gotta hang it up, but I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

Smooches,

Natasha

Here I Come To Save The Day!

Happy Saturday, Everyone!

First of all, I would like to wish a Happy 90^th Birthday to a young man back home in Southern Cali—Mr. Clarence Emile Burkalter. Truth be told, y’all—Mr. Burkalter is the coolest and hippest senior citizen that I’ve come to know and love, outside of those in my family, of course.

Happy #90, Mr. Burkalter—celebrate it well, and God Bless!

Well, I think I may have determined the cause of Neo Theo’s sudden change in attitude. Do y’all remember a blog posted from sometime earlier this year entitled “Theo’s Admirer,” in which a fellow Rustite named Olivia was trying to get Theo’s attention? Well, what started as a budding romance has suddenly withered and died; Theo and Olivia are no longer a couple. I know this to be true, mainly because Olivia herself explained the whole story to me and Ruby yesterday evening. From what Olivia told us, she broke it off with Theo because—and these were her exact words: “He ain’t no real man!”

Of course, Ruby and I were a bit confused when we heard such a comment, so on behalf of Ruby, I calmly yet sternly asked Olivia to explain what she meant. Well, Olivia explained her definition of a real man, such as it was; she said that a real man knows how to take charge of a situation and take advantage of an opportunity when he sees it. Olivia further declared that she had presented herself to Theo several times, and he “ignorantly turned down” all of her offers.

Now, y’all—I was so taken aback by that ridiculous comment that I about to cuss! Matter of fact, when Ruby and I heard that bullshit, we just looked at that stupid ass girl.

Y’all already know by now that Ruby is a hothead; just as she was about to haul off and snap, I quickly derailed her and told her to let me do all the talking. Well, before I could catch myself, I put my hands on my hips, looked Olivia square in her eyes and said: “You’re absolutely right, Olivia—Theo’s got way too much class to be around a promiscuous slut like you!”

It got real silent in that room, and to be honest, I surprised myself, but I meant every word of it, and I was not about to take it back!

Of course, Olivia was shocked behind what I said, and she was about to snap back, but I immediately cut her off and said: “I want you to know, Sweetheart, that any woman would be quite the fortunate lady to be with Theo. Granted, he’s a touch silly at times, but he’s a kind-hearted, good-natured soul. He’s not the type of guy to take advantage of a woman, and judging by your attitude, Girlie, you’ve shown that you’re nothing more but a skanky, sleazy, slimy, ratchet-ass hoe!”

Oh, I was on a role, y’all, but can you blame me? I mean, Theo’s my best friend, and I’ll be damned before I let someone hurt him.

So, needless to say, Olivia couldn’t say a damn thing, and in knowing that she couldn’t, I simply suggested that she get her trashbag-hoe ass out of my sight on account of the morale and the cleanliness of my dorm room was rapidly deteriorating. Needless to say, y’all, Olivia got the hell up out my room… and the door literally hit her in the ass while she was leaving!

Even after that tramp left, I was so pissed off that my hands were shaking. I wanted so badly to go to Olivia’s room and punch her square in her face, but Ruby insisted that I calm down before I morph into the Vipress. I guess there really is a first time for everything, because I never imagined that Ruby and I would change roles—this time, I was the impetuous hothead and she was the voice of reason. Well, stranger things have happened, though I don’t know when they first began.

I’m happy to report that I’m a helluva lot calmer today than I was yesterday, but I still haven’t heard from Theo. I figure that I would just leave him alone and then he’ll come back around. To quote my Uncle Ronnie (who actually took this quote from my Grampa Clark): “In due time, that which you’re waiting for will happen, but when you least expect it, though.”

Until next time, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Overly Concerned for A Friend

Hi, Y’all!

Well, it’s Friday, and I’m fresh outta class. Let the weekend begin… WOO-HOO!!!

Well, in yesterday’s blog post, I promised that I would give y’all an update on Theo’s strange behavior—well, as it stands, there is no update. I’m still lost at what’s wrong with him, and to be honest, I’m really scared to press the issue; the last thing I need is for Theo to snap off on me, thus causing me to turn into the Vipress—that ain’t what nobody wants! But seriously, I am very curious as to what’s bothering my homey. Now, he did tell me yesterday in class that he would tell me and Ruby “when the time is right.” Y’all, I ain’t gonna lie—I hope that time comes soon, because this is driving me bonkers! And it didn’t help matters either when he came to class late this morning. I took a chance and asked Theo if he was feeling any better, and he simply looked at me and said in a very cold voice: “I’m fine.”

I’m deeply concerned, y’all, because Theo’s my good friend. Like I may have mentioned yesterday, he’s never acted like this before, and it scares me. I’m really praying that he snaps out of it. Whatever’s bothering him, he can always come to me and Ruby; after all, he’s one-third of the Tripod, and when a tripod’s leg is busted, the whole tripod is useless.

Come on, Theo—snap out of it, my friend!

Well, that’s actually all of the news that I have for today. I will definitely keep y’all posted once I hear anything. Until then, I’m gonna enjoy the rest of this weekend.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Something's Wrong With Theo

Hi, Y’all!

So, this morning in my Intro to Humanities class, I noticed that my homey Neo Theo came in all sad and downtrodden. Usually, Theo’s all upbeat and animated when he comes to class, but in this instance, he looked troubled. Heck, even when he spoke to me, he appeared to be in another world; as a matter of fact, when he spoke to me, he was all despondent.

Call it a woman’s intuition or just being a concerned friend, but I knew something was wrong, so I asked him to tell me what the dilly-o was. Theo simply looked at me and rolled his eyes, then he said that he would tell me later on. Well, I didn’t press the issue, so I left it alone… and I’m glad that I followed my first mind on account of Theo just was not himself. Ordinarily after class, he would walk me halfway to my dorm and take his leave, but this time he just stormed out without saying one word. Naturally, I Was shocked behind his behavior, but I didn’t think anything else of it; I simply left it alone and gave him the benefit of the doubt.

Y’all, I still don’t know what’s up with Theo—he didn’t even show up to kick it with me and Ruby at dinner in the cafeteria. Granted, I’ve been using my sixth sense a lot lately, but I’m not that well-versed in it. I really wish I knew what was wrong with my buddy, but I admit that I just don’t know.

Well, whatever it is, I hope he’s able to finally talk to me about it. I miss the old Neo Theo already—the one who would crack jokes at the drop of a hat, the one who always made sure that Ruby and I got to our dorm safely… well, whatever it is, I sure hope he’s able to break loose of it. Hell, even if he wants to talk to me about it, I’m willing to listen; after all, I’m the one with the understanding heart, according to Ruby, anyway!

Okay, y’all—I’ll let y’all know of any late-breaking developments regarding Theo once I learn of anything, but until then, y’all take care and be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Inevitable Conversation with the Deltas

Hi, Everyone!

Well, it was only a matter of time before I talked to the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and that time was just a couple hours ago.

Here’s how it went down: I had just gotten out of my Intro to Social Sciences class, and on my way out the door, I bumped into a Delta who just so happens to be a graduating senior. Ironically enough, we were both heading to the A building. Well, on the way to our destination, I boldly asked her some questions about the DST sisterhood, to which she answered openly, earnestly, and honestly. She must’ve sensed that I was interested on account of she asked me if I was considering joining a sorority, to which I said that I had been in deep deliberation. I also mentioned that while I had spoken with Mrs. Nyan of Alpha Kappa Alpha, my heart is still leaning towards the direction of the Zetas, yet I was willing to give the Deltas a chance.

Well, y’all—this magnanimous Delta gave me some advice that I will never forget.

Grabbing my full attention, she looked me square in the eyes and said that she chose Delta Sigma Theta because she believed in the principles of sisterhood, unity, diversity and community service. “You have to decide why you want to become a member of Delta Sigma Theta, and I suggest that it not be because you love the colors, you love elephants, you love to step or that you love Ques,” she said. “Find out as much as you can about each organization in your spare time and if you have questions, go to an older member and ask questions. They will be more knowledgeable and honest about Greek life during and after college, and hopefully they won't do like some undergraduate members and blackball you or just use you because you are interested in their organization.”

The Delta representative went on to tell something that she said was most important: “You join an organization based on what you can contribute to them, not based on what you expect them to give to you!”

Well, needless to say, I thanked the Delta for her time and words of wisdom, to which she said that I could always go to her if I had any additional questions.

And there it is, y’all—I have spoken to a representative from each sorority.

You know, in speaking with all three representatives, I have discovered that some things really do happen in threes; in addition to given me some great advice, I have noticed that the Deltas, the Zetas, and the AKAs all suggested that I make up my own mind and not be influenced by anyone or anything; they’ve even cautioned me not to rush into anything without considering every turn, nook, and cranny of the system. There’s nothing else really for me to do, except do my homework on all three sororities.

Will Natasha Renee Stewart cross those burning sands to enter the sorority life? Only time will tell!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Happy Birthday, Nikki!

Hey, Y’all—I’m Back Again!

This blog post is really special because I’m honoring a young woman whom I look at as my role model and my hero—Nicole Yvonne Douglas, affectionately and well known as “Nikki Firefly.”

This past summer, I had the opportunity to talk to Nikki, and I discovered that we had a great deal in common; in addition to being the youngest in our respective families and our love for purple, Nikki and I have a strong love for teaching. Check this out, y’all: Teaching seems to be Nikki’s birthright; her great grandfather taught Fourth Graders, her grandmother taught Third Graders, and of course her dad (good ol’ Mr. D) is entering his twenty-first year at Sapp Elementary as a kindergarten teacher. It’s not so much a birthright for me, as it is a dream of mine. So, needless to say, Nikki and I have formed a sisterly teachers’ bond in which we have agreed to help each other out and stick by each other. I think it makes sense, considering that our respective families have been as tight as superglue and titanium steel for well over thirty years.

And how apropos is this: Today is Nikki’s 27^th Birthday!

Yes, y’all—this was actually my modus operandi for writing this particular blog post. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Nikki’s birthday. With that said, let me just go ahead and say:

Happy #27, Nikki, and may The Good Lord continue to bless and keep you on this day, forever, and always.

Until tomorrow, y’all take it light!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Bearcat Mania, Still Runnin' Wild!

And A Good Tuesday Morning to All-A-Y’all!

Well, let me just go ahead and apoplogize for not posting a blog on yesterday, as I was some kinda busy all day yesterday. Notwithstanding that yesterday was Veterans Day (and I did all my Cousin Keith and talk to him for about a good hour or so), I also took advantage of the opportunity to pre-register for the second semester here in Bearcat Country… oh, I’m seriously responsible when it comes to my academic career! All this money that my mom and dad have put into my education to attend Rust College—I’ll be damned before I give any inclination that it’s all in vain.

Well, y’all, I’ve got to say it one mo’ ginn: Rust College showed up and showed out this past weekend! Founders Day Weekend was off the heezy fo sheezy, my breezy… hahaha! As always, I want to congratulate Miss Rust 2013-14 for a beautiful coronation—and for you fellas out there, she was glamorously beautiful (Yes, I’m talking more and more like my Grampa Clark, but that’s how gorgeous she was). And of course, I broke the news this past Friday that I will be running for Miss Rust 2015-16. I figure that I’ve got just as good a shot as any other gal up here, so why not throw my name in the ring!

And the rest of the Founders Day weekend was just as tremendous. This is my second homecoming that I have attended, but it seems that the Bearcats outdo themselves every year. And my goodness—all the alumni that showed up and showed out… it was like a big ol’ party. Speaking of alumni, I got to hang out with My Auntie Gladys again, but this time, Ruby and Theo tagged along with me. One of these days—hopefully before the end of the year—I’ll post a picture of me, Ruby, Theo, and Auntie Gladys just chillin’ in Bearcat Country. And check this out, y’all: Just to rub it in, Auntie Gladys sent a mass text message to Gramma Jewel and Great Aunt Reesie that she was having so much fun “just kickin’ it with Natasha and her peeps.” I told y’all that Auntie Gladys is a trip and a half; she said that she understood Gramma Jewel’s reason for not attending this year, but Great Aunt Reesie “ain’t got no excuse to not show up, especially when she’s on this side of the Mississippi!”

My response: “Oh, well—there’s always next year for Double-Double Trouble.”

Well, it looks like it’s time for me to close up this blog; I didn’t have Intro to Humanities class today, which explains why I’m posting a rather early blog. I shall holla at y’all later, but until then, y’all take care and be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

It Begins Again, Y'all!

Me and Auntie Gladys at last year's Founders Day Weekend.

And A Very Happy Friday to All-A-Y’all!

Well, this is it, y’all—the 2013 Rust College Homecoming (a.k.a. Founders Day Weekend) is officially upon us!

I don’t know what it is, but Bearcat Country seems to get that much more exciting around this time of year, considering that this’ll be the second time that I will be part of the festivities. Let me put it this way: Founders Day Weekend is to Rust College what the SuperBowl is to an avid football fan.

Now y’all understand the importance of such a monumental event as Founders Day!

And yes, that is a picture of me and my Auntie Gladys from last year’s festivities. I can just hear some of the fellas now: “Dang, Tasha—your Auntie Gladys is a fox!”

One of the reasons why I am excited about this year’s festivities revolves around the coronation of Miss Rust 2013-14. I think I mentioned in a previous blog post that the coronation is fit for a queen—in every aspect of the word. It’s full of royal regality, and only one young lady is chosen as the elitest of the elite to represent her school, in a positive light, of course. And by the way: I have decided that before I graduate, I’m gonna throw my name in the ring… that’s right, y’all! As of this blog post, I—Natasha Renee Stewart—am running for Miss Rust College 2016-17!

Well, I guess I had better close up this blog post; after all, I’ve got Intro to Humanities in about ten minutes. Hopefully, I’ll be able to post a blog for tomorrow, but just in case I am unable to do so, I’ll just holla at y’all on Monday. Either way, y’all take care of yourselves and have a good weekend.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha