Looks Like I Really Did Thrive in 2015!

Well, y’all—here it is!

This is my very special “Year in Review” blog post, where I highlight the greatest moments in my life in the year 2015… heck, this year was so good that I actually have a Top Ten list!

Lest I forget: I want to point out that the ten highlights are in no particular order, but at the same time, I do have a number one highlight—so let’s stop talking about it, and let’s get on down to the nitty-gritty.

AUNTIE STEPHANIE’S #50

When Auntie Stephanie hit the big 5-0 in April, little did she know that we were planning the perfect birthday party for her—a 70s birthday party, if you will. Granted, I wasn’t there to help celebrate Auntie Stephanie (a.k.a. Foxy Brown Suga) on account of I was preparing for finals at Rust College, but thanks to some major assistance from my fellow Bearcats, I threw my own 70s party in Auntie Stephanie’s honor… and yes, we were decked out in groovy seventies costumes, Man!

SUMMER JOB AT THE CULVER CITY CHILDREN’S CENTER

Special thanks to Jessica Torres for putting in a good word for me at the Culver City Children’s Center, where I gained firsthand experience as a tutor and a teacher. It seems as though everywhere I go, little kids flock to me—and the Culver City Children’s Center was no different. Granted, it was only a one-month deal, but I learned so much within that one month. And that led to…

INTERNSHIP AT CARTER ELEMENTARY

Those fourteen weeks at my old elementary school proved to be the greatest fourteen weeks of my life, and the added bonus was working right alongside my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Ingrid Martin. Much like my summer job at the Culver City Children’s Center, I had so much fun at Carter Elementary… and heck, I even discovered that a couple of little fellas had a little crush on me. On my last day, Mrs. Martin and the little ones gave me the sweetest Christmas present—plenty of gratitude and appreciation.

THE COUNTDOWN TO GRADUATION

Almost immediately after the 2014-15 semester came to a close this past April, I began celebrating with a countdown to my graduation. I’m just four months away from earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, and I know that I’ll have more back-up than reverse on the day of April 24, 2016.

THE GREAT 2-1

It’s not everyday that a gal turns 21 years old, and not too many youngsters get to see such a great age, so y’all could imagine my attitude of gratitude when God allowed me to see the great 2-1. And if I may be so bold to say: I’ve never felt sexier than now!

COUSIN CALVIN AND MISS KAREN

This cute little love story actually began sometime last year, but it really took off this past summer. It started innocently enough: Cousin Calvin admired Miss Karen from afar, and finally worked up enough gumption to ask her out on a date, to which Miss Karen said yes. As of this blog post, Cousin Calvin and Miss Karen have been going out on several dates since then, and they are really enjoying each other’s company. Stay tuned, y’all, because this story is getting real good.

WINSTON CAMPBELL

It looks like I have room for romance after all! Over the summer, a young gentleman by the name of Winston Campbell found a way to my heart, and has taught me that it’s okay to love again. I’m not gonna say that I’m head over heels in love, but I will say that I have enjoyed Winston’s company over these past couple months, and thus far he’s proven to back up his words with his actions.

FAMILY REUNION 2015

So, as y’all are aware, the Jones Family continued with our new annual summertime tradition in the form of a family reunion. This time, our reunion took place in Southern California, at Auntie Cherri and Uncle Alex’s house. This year’s reunion was very special, in that Cousin Becky got baptized that same weekend. It was truly a great way to close out our family reunion. I’m really looking forward to next year.

GRAMMA JEWEL’S FOURSCORE

It’s no secret that Gramma Jewel is the true legend in our family, and that’s why it made perfect sense to throw her a surprise birthday party when she turned 80 years old in October. I still remember how surprised she was when she realized how much of a fuss that we made over her. I promise y’all—no expense was spared for the crowned jewel in our family, and to prove that, Gramma Jewel stated that a surprise party was the second greatest gift that she had ever received.

AND THE NUMBER ONE MOMENT OF 2015

I FINALLY JUMPED THAT HURDLE!!!

Considering that it just happened yesterday afternoon, this deserves to be the greatest moment of the year, simply because it was a long time coming. I knew in my heart that I had forgiven Ray Hernandez for his treacherous ways, but I still had that pent-up anger and frustration. Well, when I finally met him face-to-face, I let him know that my sentiments had not changed—he is still forgiven and I wish him nothing but the absolute best in this life. However, when he told me how his heart was broken far worse, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him. I let him know that he would get over the hurt eventually, and that it was time for him to heal. I really could’ve been a vindictive little vixen, but I chose to take the high road, and in the end, I am the richer. Now, it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my life!

Well, y’all—these are the Top Ten moments of 2015. With the new year just a couple of hours away, I am very excited. Granted, I cannot see in the future, but I do know who holds the future, and as long as He’s guiding me along the way, I am most definitely in good hands.

With that said, I hope to see y’all on the other side, into a brand-new year!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

The Vipress Got Her Groove Back, Y'all!

Hi, Everybody! 

So, I had my meeting with what’s-his-name this afternoon, and I gotta say—I feel a helluva whole lot better than I did!

I arrived at the sandwich shop around 2:30pm this afternoon, where Winston was on his break. Heaven only know why, but I let Winston know the modus operandi behind my visit—I only gave him a little bit of info, and he was able to decipher what was going on. He gave me a big hug and let me know that all I just needed to say the word, and he would be ready to “whoop some candy ass.” I laughed and let Winston know that an ass-whuppin’ was not necessary, but I also told him to watch for my signal; I would brush my right eyebrow with my pinkie.

Well, Ray did show up, and as soon as he saw me, he dropped his head in shame. Most surprising to me, all of the anger, frustration, and rage that I had within me, had all vanished within seconds. I guess I really do have a big heart after all, because I gave Ray a sincere hug and told him to forget what happened in the past on account of all was forgotten and forgiven. I also let him know that I was pissed off beyond all recognition, but in hindsight I became a better woman. I even thanked Ray for reminding me that I am a smart, sensual, sexy sweetheart with confidence, charisma, and curves.

Ray chuckled, then he said, “Well, I’m just grateful that you found it in your heart to forgive me.”

Right then and there, I let him know what was up.

“Don’t get your hopes up too high, Babe,” I said with a wink. “I didn’t forgive you for you—I forgave you for me, because I don’t want the real man of my dreams to pay for your trespasses. Oh, yeah—you proved that you’re really not the one for me; the signs were all there, but I was just so head over heels in stupidity. Nevertheless, the next man will fully appreciate me far more than you.”

Ray was obviously taken aback behind my comments—the stupid ass look on his face proved that fact! Anyway, he bounced back and actually confessed that his Cal State Long Beach classmate Naomi broke his heart, stomped on it, and then shoved it down his throat. Of course, I knew all along that had happened, but I was surprisingly compassionate towards Ray. Heaven knows that I wanted to rub it in just a little bit, but hell—he was already suffering enough.

And this is why I say that I feel a lot better than I did. I guess I do have a big heart after all. And even more so than that, I got my groove back!


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

I've Waited Long Enough... It's Time!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, Christmas 2015 is in the record books, and I want y’all to know that I had a great time with my family… but then again, I always have a great time when I’m with my family.

So, as it stands, we are just a few days away from a brand-new year… and I want y’all to know that I’m still in shock at how this year just seemed to zip by. I promise y’all—I think all I saw was a blur. Nevertheless, if The Lord says the same, then we will cross into the year 2016, and y’all already know that I am excited about the upcoming year on account of I’ve got four more months until I finally get my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. I am so excited, y’all… as a matter of fact, I’ve already gotten my plane ticket to return to Bearcat Country; I’ve just got to call Auntie Gladys or Great Aunt Donna to see who will pick me up from the Memphis Airport.

In other news, I received yet another change of heart, thanks to another email from what’s-his-name earlier this afternoon. Now, check this out: Per what’s-his-name’s request, I was asked to meet up with him before I returned to Rust. Seeing as how the ball has been in my court, I first waited a full hour before I responded, only because I wanted to pick the perfect place to meet up. My cousins begged me to take them along, “just as witnesses.” I denied my cousins’ request, and all of a sudden, I thought about a gentleman named Winston Campbell. I happen to know that Winston will be working at the sandwich shop this Wednesday, so I finally responded to what’s-his-name’s email and let him know to meet me at my favorite sandwich shop this Wednesday… and almost five minutes later, he responded, “I’ll be there—thank you for meeting with me.”

He still doesn’t know that I’ve got the keys, but he’ll find what I’m all about tomorrow… hahahahaha!

Until next time, I’ll holla at y’all.


Smooches,
Natasha

Has Christmas Come Upon Us Already?

Hi, Everybody—and Happy Christmas Eve!

Before I kick off today’s blog post, I would like to send my prayers and well-wishes to my peeps in Holly Springs, Mississippi and the surrounding areas. I got an email yesterday evening from my girl Ruby, and she informed me that a tornado caused some significant damage. I’m looking at the pictures on the news right now, and I am heavy-hearted right now. I am glad to know that Ruby ‘nim are alive and well, but at the same time, my heart goes out to those who lost homes and loved ones… and it doesn’t help matters any that all of this happened right before Christmas. Yes, I realize that everything happens for a reason—and yes, God always knows what He’s doing—but I’m just in mourning for my home away from home. Once again, my prayers go out to those who are suffering loss right now.

Notwithstanding my heavy heart, I am still shocked that Christmas just rolled up on us all of a sudden. Where did all that time go? I mean, seriously—wasn’t it just New Year’s Day? It just feels like 2015 is all one big blur, like it was here one minute and then all of a sudden… poof! Well, ready or not, here comes Christmas… and then a couple more days, we’ll be entering a brand-new year, all in that order. Thankfully, both of these holidays are a week apart… hahahaha! And while I’m on the subject of Christmas, I’ve been taking a look at my Christmas list, and I notice that it’s gotten shorter over the years. It has gotten to the point where I don’t really want anything for Christmas—materialistically speaking, that is. At the same time, there is one particular Christmas present that I would like… I guess you can say that it’s my heart’s desire, and that’s all I’ve got to say about that.

Well, I reckon that I’ll close out today’s blog post, but I’ll holla at’cha on Saturday. Until then, y’all take care, and have a very Merry Christmas.


Smooches,
Natasha

Looks Like I've Got A Change of Heart!

Happy Christmas Eve Eve, Everybody!

No, that is not a typo—y’all read that correctly, and I trust that you’re having a great morning… and I just realized that Christmas is another two days! I am so thrown off right now—I got all my Christmas shopping done four weeks ago, and now the big day is upon us all of a sudden. I don’t think I’m ready for the festivities just yet… and apparently that doesn’t matter right now, because ready or not, Christmas is almost here.

So, if y’all remember my blog post from yesterday, I talked about the email that I got from what’s-his-name… and for those of you who are wondering, I did email him back this morning. I didn’t go into some long, drawn-out thesis, though—I kept it short, sweet, and simple. I let him know straight up that I forgave him, but I still don’t trust him. I also let him know that time made me stronger, wiser, and a little bit better… and for those of you keeping score, I never mentioned one thing about Winston. Don’t get me wrong—I thought about it, but I believe in playing fair, and I don’t want to kick Ray any further down than he already is, all things considered.

Yes, I know that I called him by his name—this time, though. I’m not fully all the way there yet, but like I told y’all: I’m getting a little bit better day by day.

And I just realized that it’s been a little over two years since that bit of unpleasantness happened. As I mentioned on several occasions, this little trial knocked me down, but it didn’t knock me out. I mean, let’s face it: No one wants to be humiliated and heartbroken, but it happens to even the best of us. At the same time, this unpleasant experience taught me a lot about myself; it taught me that I am truly one of a kind, and I am a diamond in the rough. It also taught me that Ray was not the one for me… and technically, I kinda knew that from the beginning, but the revelation was crystal clear.

So, they say that the next step of overcoming your fear is to meet it head-on. I guess that means that Ray and I gotta meet up sometime before the end of this year.

And yet, the ball is still in my court!

Another E-Mail from "He Who Shall Not Be Named"

Hi, Everybody!

Here it is—another beautiful brand-new day, and it’s cold and rainy. Looks like I’ll be spending another day in the warm, toasty house, much like yesterday.

So, check this out, y’all: I was just checking my email, and to my surprise, I got an email sometime this morning from “he who shall not be named…”

That’s right—I still refuse to call this jackass by his name. Yes, I know that I’m being petty, and some of you may question if I am truly past that hurtful event. Well, let me set the record straight: I am over it, but every now and then, I get some kind of ugly reminder about that jackass, and my emotions begin to get the better of me. I’m still very conflicted, because on the one hand, I’m in a much better place, but yet and still, I have these mental outbursts of rage. Yes, I know that it is nothing more than a psychological issue, but then again, you can’t expect any less from me, considering that I’ve suffered a broken heart.

So, as I stated earlier, “he who shall not be named” sent me an email sometime this morning, in a pitiful attempt to try and get back into my good graces. For starters, he chose “I Miss You Dearly” as a subject title, and then he goes on to talk about how he thought about me constantly, and how he wish he could turn back the hands of time and undo the pain that he caused me… you know what, I’m not gonna go into too much detail about his email, but I will say this: Judging by all this rhetoric and the rigmarole, I know that there’s a dead cat on the line somewhere. I can’t help but to think that he’s felt the pain that he tried to inflict on me. It’s like the late great Mother Harriette Fields once said, “The deceit that you do will always find a way to bite you right in the buttocks.” Well, I’m not a betting woman, but I can almost bet that poetic justice was served.

He never has to tell me what happened to him, and I don’t ever have to find out, but I do know that I feel a lot more vindicated than I did. With that said, there’s only one thing to do: I’ll email him back… tomorrow!

Remember, the ball is still in my court.

Two Years Ago Today...

Hey, Y’all—I’m back, and have I got a real gooden for y’all!

All day today, I kept having this strange feeling that today was a very special day, and for some reason, I thought about my Uncle Anthony, and that’s when it hit me: Today is a very special milestone in my family!

It was two years ago on this very day that my Grampa Clark was inducted into the first ever Sapp Elementary Hall of Fame. This beautiful ceremony took place at the Marriott in Marina Del Rey, California, and the atmosphere was like that of an award show. I don’t know how Principal Wilson did it, but she made darn sure that the Sapp Hall of Fame lived up to the hype. Well, I can tell y’all—it was truly a gala affair!

From the moment we stepped inside that Promenade Ballroom to the closing remarks and benediction, I watched as the five legends of Sapp Elementary became immortalized in the annals of time. Each hall of famer was inducted by their respective predecessor, and entertained us with stories of their greatest moments at Sapp Elementary. However, it was my Uncle Anthony who had everyone grabbing the Kleenex, as he spoke from the heart about his dad/my grandfather, the late great Clark Kenneth Jones.

I get goosebumps to this very day when I think about how Uncle Anthony accepted the award on Grampa Clark’s behalf, then looked up to Heaven and boldly declared, “This is for you, Pop!” I remember how my smile grew when Uncle Anthony reached for his notes, only to put them back into his inside suit jacket pocket and just let the words flow about the legacy that Grampa Clark left at Sapp Elementary… and check this out, y’all: Uncle Anthony had every intention of giving that beautiful crystal award to Gramma Jewel, but Gramma Jewel wouldn’t have it; she suggested—dare I say—demanded that Uncle Anthony keep the award for himself.

And here it is, two years later, and you can find Grampa Clark’s award resting on the mantle of Uncle Anthony’s fireplace.

Well, y’all—that’s all the news that I have right now, but I promise to holla back sometime tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Getting Adjusted to Some Well-Deserved R&R

Would y’all believe that I just woke up about twenty minutes ago?

I tell y’all—with all the hours that I put in at Carter Elementary, I have a newfound appreciation and respect for sleeping in late. Granted, it’s not like me to oversleep, but in this case, I’ll make an exception. I must’ve been some kinda plumb tuckered out… and lest I forget, I had a long day at church yesterday, from 8am service to the evening Christmas program.

Yes indeed—a sista needed some well deserved sleep!

Well, it’s a brand-new day, and I’m excited about it, but I think I’ll just lounge around the house in my pajamas today. Besides, this is the perfect weather to do so; it’s in the low to mid 50s right now, and there’s a nice cold breeze outside, but the house is warm and toasty… hold up, y’all! My plans just may change on account of I just saw a commercial promoting a barbecue chipotle chicken avocado sandwich. I just may go up to the sandwich shop this afternoon and try it out. I don’t know if Winston is working today, but we shall see.

Well, that’s about all the news that I’ve got for now, but if there’s any late-breaking developments, I’ll be sure to holla at y’all. Until then, y’all take care and be good.


Smooches,
Natasha

Thanks for Everything, Carter Elementary!

Well, y’all—the inevitable has happened!

The first semester at Carter Elementary has officially come to pass, and I gotta say: I had a great time with Mrs. Martin and her kindergarten class. I would like to thank Carter Elementary for a wonderful three months. And I know that I’ve said this a lot, but it’s worth saying again: I learned a great deal from both Mrs. Martin and her little kiddies. If anything, the kiddies contributed a helluva whole lot, as they helped me get one more step closer to my goal of becoming the best damn kindergarten teacher in the world. And of course, Mrs. Martin is in a class all by herself—she’s just simply the best.

And I gotta tell y’all: I must’ve done something right again, because Mrs. Martin and the kindergarteners gave me the sweetest little send-off, right in the middle of our Christmas party. They got me a Christmas basket and a big thank-you card with all of their signatures on it. Now, I had to make a promise to the little ones that I would not open my present until Christmas, and I’m gonna stick by that promise. However, I never said anything about their sweet homemade greeting card. I tell y’all, those little kiddies really made me feel special, and I let them know that I would take my card back to Mississippi with me.

And I’m not gonna lie—I kinda wept a little, but that’s only because I was overwhelmed at all the love and appreciation that the little kiddies showed me. Matter of fact, young Henry mustered up all the strength he had and gave me a sweet kiss on the cheek. Of course, I returned the favor, but as a means to be fair, I gave all the little fellas a kiss on the forehead… hahahaha!

Well, now that this chapter in my life is complete, it’s time to prepare for Christmas, and afterwards it’ll be time to head back to Bearcat Country. Speaking of Rust, I got an email from Ruby, and she says that she is counting down the days until I make my much anticipated return. Well, I sure hope they’re ready for me, because I know I am!

Until next time, y’all take care and have a great rest-of-the-day.

Smooches,

Natasha

A Night of Surprises at Carter Elementary

Hi, Everybody!

Well, it goes without saying, but this evening’s Christmas play at Carter Elementary was indeed a success. At the risk of tooting my own horn, I believe that I did a pretty swell job in my role as the guardian angel. Now admittedly, I messed up two of my lines, but I somehow managed to make my mess-ups work in my favor. For instance, in this one particular scene, I was supposed to explain to my co-star why life is worth living. Well, in the process of walking across the stage with my co-star, I completely forgot my line—I mean, I couldn’t think of that line to save my life! Well, my co-star noticed that I was in trouble, so he ad-libbed and asked me if I was okay. I answered him that I was having a senior moment… and just like that, I remembered my line! Most surprising to me was that no one in the audience knew that I messed up, but I felt bad for missing my cue. Well, after it was over, Mrs. Martin paid me a great compliment; she thought that I was adding on to my character. When I explained what happened, she squeezed my cheeks and said, “Dearie, I would’ve never guessed that you messed up if you hadn’t said anything, but even if you did, the audience loved you.”

And to Mrs. Martin’s point, Winston said that he was so caught up in my character that he thought my miscue was part of the play (that’s right, y’all—Winston showed up to support me). Now, when Winston said that to me, I felt like I was six feet tall. Granted, I’m accustomed to hearing motivation and inspiration from my family and friends, but Winston really made my evening a “gooden.” I couldn’t help it, y’all—I had to give him a kiss on the cheek for giving me such a sweet compliment, and I didn’t need any mistletoe either… hahaha!

Well, this is gonna do it for me—I’m gonna close this here blog post and call it a night. Just in case y’all forgot, tomorrow is the end of the first semester at Carter Elementary, and it’s also the end of my volunteer work. I reckon I had better bring some Kleenex, seeing as how I’m a big ol’ softie… hahahaha!

Until tomorrow, y’all have a good night.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Previews, Updates, and Breaking News... Oh, My!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, tonight’s the big night! After weeks of planning, preparation, and rehearsing, Carter Elementary is fully prepared for our Christmas play… and y’all already know how the Joneses do it! If I know my mom, dad, and Gramma Jewel, they’re gonna be all decked out and dressed to the nines. Granted, it’s only a Christmas play, but I am very grateful for the support that my family shows in anything and everything that we do.

So, in all the excitement of rehearsing, I realized that I never told y’all the title and the premise of the play, so here goes: The name of the play is called “The Gift That Keeps On Giving,” and it was written by our very own Principal Miller. The play is a cross between It’s A Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol, and the main character is Brad (played by Eighth Grader Jerome Clemens), a young man who has given up on Christmas altogether on account of some unfortunate circumstances. Well, just as Jerome feels that all hope is lost, he meets a woman named Cheryl (played by yours truly)… and incidentally, I think that Principal Miller outdid herself when she chose the name Cheryl for the guardian angel! Y’all just know that I thought about my Auntie Cherri… but anyway, I don’t wanna give away too much of the play than I already have, but I’m sure that y’all pretty much got the gist of it.

In other news, I got an email from Ruby, Theo, Azalea, and Craig, and while this shouldn’t come as a surprise, I am happy to report that they all aced their final exams. Granted, the grades won’t be posted until after the beginning of the spring semester, but if I know my peeps, they did the damn thing! So, y’all already know that I’m already celebrating with them… and speaking of celebrating, Ruby sent me a “re-reply” saying that when I return in a couple weeks, we’re gonna throw the biggest pizza party that Rust College has ever seen.

Okay, now—y’all know that I’ll be counting down the days until it’s time to return to Bearcat Country!

Well, I reckon that’s gonna be it for now, but hopefully I’ll be able to come back with an update on the success of tonight’s Christmas play. Until then, y’all be good!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Blockbuster Announcement from Winston Campbell

Hi, Everybody!

To paraphrase Vince McMahon on a 1999 episode of Monday Night Raw: “Sometimes, plans go awry, and when they do, that tests the mettle of an individual.”

I said all that to say this: I had planned on sending y’all an update on the upcoming Christmas play at Carter Elementary, but I gotta tell y’all—I was thrown off track by a declaration from one Winston Campbell. You see, after a great rehearsal yesterday afternoon, I stopped by the sandwich shop, and to my surprise, Winston was there. Well, as usual, we chatted it up for a while, and y’all already know that I told him how I’m perfecting my cues in the play. Afterwards, Winston rang me up, then he says, “I guess I’ll see you Thursday evening.”

“What’s happening Thursday evening?” I asked.

“It’s my day off,” he answered. “And you’ve talked so much about this Christmas play for the past couple of weeks that I just have to be there and see how you play this guardian angel.”

Right then and there, I started blushing.

“Okay, hopefully I’ll see you there,” I smiled.

I’ve got a question for the lotta y’all: Does Winston have telekinesis or something? I only ask that because I had every intent on inviting him to see this play that Carter Elementary has worked so very diligently to put together. Oh, well—the bottom line is that he’s gonna be there, and I am so excited!

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Smooches,

Natasha

All Kinds of Happenings Goin' On!

Hi, Everybody!

So much has gone on since my last blog post, and I feel that there’s no time like the present to keep y’all up to date on what’s been going on.

For starters, seeing as how I had y’all waiting all weekend, I’m just gonna go on record and say that I had one helluva time this past Saturday evening with one Winston Campbell! As you all are aware, we went bowling, and we had so much fun. All things considered, I felt like a carefree kid again. And y’all know the amazing thing: It didn’t feel like a date. If anything, it felt like two friends kickin’ it at the bowling alley. When we got to the bowling alley, we decided to have a “Best of Five” series, and I almost pitched a shutout… hahahaha! I won the first two rounds, but Winston rebounded and won the last three. Now, an ordinary individual would’ve taken advantage and gloated all day long, but Winston showed that he didn’t care about winning that fifth and final round. Matter of fact, he simply dropped to his knees and shook his head in disbelief. Like any true sportswoman would, I raised his arm in the air as a sign of victory, and I gave him a congratulatory hug and kiss… and then I challenged him to another “Best of Five” bowling series for the next go-round.

And while we’re on the subject of dating, I am happy to report that my Cousin Calvin and Miss Karen had a lovely first date this past Friday—Calvin called me and told me all about it, and I could hear in his voice that he was beaming with so much excitement. He didn’t go into too much detail, but he said that he treated Karen to an evening at the Santa Monica Pier, and he also made mention that Karen’s smile somehow managed to capture his heart each and every time. Just by those two comments made by Cousin Calvin, I know that he and Karen had a marvelous time. I also know that a second date is in the making, and I wish them the very best.

In other news, we are four days and counting from the fall semester to end, and I’ve got great news: My academic advisor received both my electronic copy and my FedEx copy of my internship report... and not that it comes as some surprise, but your girl did in fact receive an A! Y’all know what this means—I am officially one more class shy of my Bachelor’s Degree. Y’all are looking at one excited Vipress-s-s-s-s-s… hahahaha!

Well, that’s all the news for now, but I’ll holla at y’all later. Besides, my lunch is up, and I’ve got to get back to this here rehearsal for the Christmas play. Until next time, y’all take care and be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Blockbuster News Regarding Cousin Calvin and Miss Karen

Hi, Everybody!

Yes, I’m back again, and I’ve got a very special update. There was absolutely no way that I was gonna let this day slide by without sharing this great blockbuster news.

So, my Cousin Calvin called me about an hour ago, and he was so excited about something—in fact, he was so excited that he was a touch incoherent. When I asked him to repeat himself, he was still kinda garbled, but I managed to make out the words “Karen,” “date,” and “yes.”

And it took less than a microsecond for me to understand why Cousin Calvin was so excited—apparently he worked up the nerve to ask Miss Karen out on a date, and she said yes.

“You were right, Tasha—I had nothing to be worried about!” he exclaimed joyously. “I can’t lie, though—I really was expecting her to say no. She really threw me for a loop when she said yes. I can finally rest my mind at ease.”

I want to go on record and said that I am so happy for Cousin Calvin! Not only did he face his fears and push through, but he got the answer that I know he was praying for. As you may know, Cousin Calvin has had a crush on Miss Karen for a good minute or so… and quiet as it’s kept, I believe that Miss Karen has feelings for my cornball cousin. Now, I realize that I’m gonna be biased when I say this (after all, Calvin is my cousin), but it must be said: Calvin is one helluva guy, and any woman would be grateful to have him as a future husband. And yes, I realize that Calvin and Karen are going out on their first date, but knowing Calvin like I do, he’s gonna do everything he can to make Karen feel special.

And lest I forget, their first date is tomorrow evening. Even though I know in my heart that they’re gonna have a great time, my prayers go out to both of them.

Until next time, y’all take care, and I’ll holla at y’all later.


Smooches,
Natasha

Guess Who's Got A Date With Winston This Weekend!

Hi, Everybody!

And have I got some news for y’all—I’ve got a bowling date this Saturday afternoon with one Winston Campbell!

Yes, I know that I haven’t spoken about him as much, but I can assure you all that we have been keeping in touch over these past couple months. If you recall, we had a great first date back in October, and since then, we’ve been trying to plan for a second date. Lately it has been hit-and-miss, but just this afternoon, I paid a visit to the sandwich shop, and lo and behold—there was Winston! Of course, he asked if I was having my usual, and I told him that I was, but with ranch dressing and buffalo sauce.

So, as Winston was making my sandwich, he let me know that he was free this Saturday, and he hadn’t forgotten that I accepted his challenge to go bowling. I let him know that I would be all primed and ready to go. I also went on to let Winston know that I was helping the kiddies in the upcoming Christmas play at Carter Elementary, and I also let him know that I am participating as a supporting character. Well, imagine my surprise when Winston said that he would love to be there, even if he has to switch his schedule around.

Now, I want y’all to take notice: Winston has only known me for a little while, yet he knows that I am passionate about teaching, and he is willing to do everything humanly possible to see me in this Christmas play at Carter Elementary—this really means so much to me. As my dad once said: “A real man is always willing to sacrifice what he loves to support his woman.”

Well, from what I see, Winston is a real man!

Until next time, y’all take it easy, and I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.


Smooches,

Natasha

Amped Up to the Max!

Hi, Everybody!

Y’all ain’t gonna believe this—and then again, some-a-y’all might—but I had a dream that I was back at Rust, and I was in a celebratory mood on account of it was eight days until I returned home for the Christmas vacation. Now, I don’t mean to sound like Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, but Ruby was in my dream, as was Theo, Azalea, and Craig, and they were all shaking me, trying to calm me down. The strangest thing—Theo kept saying, “Wake up, Honeybee. Wake up, Honeybee.”

Come to find out, it was my dad—and that’s when I woke up!

That dream was so real… and come to find out, it really is eight days until the 2015-16 semester at Rust College officially ends. I guess Rust has become a huge part of me that it has seeped into my psyche. Now, check this out: I just got an email from Ruby ‘nim, and they expressed their excitement about the end of the semester, as well as their upcoming finals next Thursday. Ruby then went on to ask me to pray for her and the rest of our group—that they will ace their finals and move one step closer to graduation. She also mentioned that she would pray for me and my internship paper.

Speaking of my internship paper, I was up until eleven-thirty last night, making sure that everything was perfectly in order. I printed it out and made damn sure that I placed it in one of those safe spillproof folders, and then I left it on my dad’s suitcase with a note, asking him to FedEx it to Rust College for me.

And yes, y’all—I went ahead and emailed my academic advisor with an attachment of my paper. Either way, my internship paper is complete, and it will be at Rust before this Friday!

That’s all I’ve got for now. Until next time, y’all take care and be good.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Wacky Wednesday!

Hi, Everybody!

The title of today’s blog post is quite apropos, if I do say so myself—and I just did… hahahaha!

Yes, it was indeed a Wacky Wednesday, but it was a good kind of wacky. You see, with all of the excitement surrounding the end of my internship just last Tuesday, I forgot to write up my report and email my academic advisor. Well, imagine my surprise when I get a call from my advisor this morning around 7:30am PST, reminding me that my paperwork needs to be emailed to him no later than this Friday. I almost got in a panic, but then I remembered my trusty notebook with all kinds of pertinent information that I had written down since I started working alongside Mrs. Martin just three months ago. I took a great big sigh of relief and thanked The Good Lord Up Above for easing my nerves. And even more so than that, I remembered a brainstorm that I had, in which I wrote down a great introduction to start off my paper.

Once again, I was shown that I had absolutely nothing to worry about… matter of fact, once I complete this evening’s blog post, I’m gonna type up my internship paper and email it to my advisor. Just to be on the safe side, though, I’m gonna FedEx a hard copy to my advisor—ain’t no harm in keeping all my ducks in a row, don’tcha know!

In other news, this afternoon’s rehearsal for the Christmas play was quite interesting, to say the least. Let’s just say that a couple of the teachers may have been hit with a giggle stick, because they were laughing and giggling like nobody’s business. I’m almost convinced that it was an inside joke because Principal Miller, Mrs. Martin, and two other teachers were just tickled… and it caused all of us to laugh. Needless to say, we got through our rehearsal with relative ease.

Well, I guess I had better end today’s blog post, but I’ll be sure to holla at y’all later. Until then, y’all have a good rest-of-the-day.

Smooches,

Natasha

Happy #85, Auntie Thel!

Hi, Everybody!

In today’s blog post, I’m would like to recognize a very special young lady—Mrs. Thelma Jean Davis.

All things considered, I have known Mother Davis all my life; she is my Gramma Jewel’s best friend of over thirty years… matter of fact, Gramma Jewel refers to Mother Davis as her “sista from anotha mista.” In that same respect, Mother Davis has become honorary auntie and a second grandmother—she is just the sweetest lady that I’ve ever met, and she is truly a joy to be around. Most recently, I’ve christened Mother Davis as my Auntie Thel.

There’s a big reason why I’m making such a fuss about Auntie Thel: She is officially 85 years old today!

I just want to say that I thank God for the gift of Auntie Thel. As I stated earlier, she is just the sweetest personality, and a joy to be around. Granted, I’ve only really gotten to know her in such a short period of time, but within that short time, I am as crazy about her as I am my Gramma Jewel… and while it’s on my mind, I must make mention: During my freshman year at Rust, Auntie Thel called me every Thursday, if for nothing but to say hello. Now, I remember when we had a phone conversation that lasted about an hour and a half—she gave me some sound advice about boys. I’m not at liberty to repeat what she said, but I can tell y’all that some cussing was involved… hahahaha!

Oh, yeah—I think I posted a blog two years ago where I had the honor of kickin’ it with Gramma Jewel and Mother Davis, and I was thoroughly entertained by their rendition of “You Know How We Do It” by Ice Cube… matter of fact, Becky was with me when it happened. I remember dropping my head and trying to keep from bustin’ out laughing when Mother Davis turned to my Gramma Jewel and said, “Uh-uh, Viv—turn that up; that’s the Cube!” And then she rolled down her window and started boppin’ to the beat.

I said it then, and I’m saying it now: Thelma and Louise ain’t got nothin’ on Auntie Thel and Gramma Jewel!

Y’all may have noticed that I fluctuate in calling her Auntie Thel Mother Davis, but she is still that same sweet, stern lady, and no matter which name I use, she still gives me a warm smile, a big hug, and a gentle “Hey, Tasha-Dear!”

As I close today’s blog post, I would just like to say:

Auntie Thel, this is your day, so live it up to the max, like I know you will. You’re a shining star, no matter who you are. Happy #85, and I love you lots!

 

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

And the Beat Goes On at Carter Elementary

Hi, Everybody!

Well, as I may have mentioned once or twice (or several times), my internship at Carter Elementary officially ended on last Tuesday, but I volunteered to finish the remainder of this semester before I head back to Rust. Besides, the volunteer work at Carter Elementary has done wonders for me—it’s keeping me from going stone cold crazy at the house… hahahaha!

And I believe I also mentioned that Carter Elementary is in the middle of rehearsing for our Christmas play, and I’m playing the role of a guardian angel. Now, y’all already know that I’ve informed my peeps… and incidentally, I emailed Ruby ‘nim back at Rust, and they told me that I had better send them a copy of my acting debut… hahaha! In all seriousness, though, I am so excited about being in this play; it’s been years since I’ve been in any kinda play, unless I count the play that we put on at my church. Either way, this is gonna look great on my resume.

I apologize for going around the world in eighty days, but I said all of that to say this: We’ve been rehearsing for about a week now, and I am in awe at how the “Carterites” are memorizing their lines and stage prompts. I guess it helps that I kinda sorta help them along in the whole ordeal, but the bottom line is that I can tell that they’re doing their damnedest. Now, admittedly, I messed up a line during rehearsal this afternoon—one of the characters is named Vivian, and I guess in hearing the name I called this girl “Gramma Jewel” out of habit… hahahaha! We all had a good laugh, and then I picked back up like ain’t nothin’ happen.

Well, that’s gonna do it for today, but I’ll be talking to y’all again sometime this week. Until then, y’all take care and be good.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

A Fantastic Fourscore for Auntie Gladys!

Hi, Everybody!

Now, y’all know that I was not about to let this day slide by without recognizing a very special somebody in my life. She’s a proud native of Memphis, Tennessee, and she is a Rust College alumna—Class of 1957. She’s also my Gramma Jewel’ s best friend of over sixty-two years; this friendship developed into a sisterhood, and thus today’s birthday gal officially became my auntie…

That’s right, y’all—I’m talking about the lovely and lively Gladys Lorraine Williams-Nelson, and I am happy to report that she is 80 years old today. And trust me when I tell y’all—she don’t look a day over sixty!

In celebration of my Auntie Gladys’ greatest milestone thus far, I thought I would celebrate by playing one of her favorite songs.

 

  

 

 

Happy #80, Auntie Gladys—love ya lots!

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha