The Perfect Mother's Day Present for Momillennium

Hi, Everybody!

No surprises here, folks—today’s blog post is a very special one, as it is dedicated to the one and only Mrs. Danielle Renee Stewart, affectionately known to me as Momillennium… and how apropos is it that I dedicate today’s blog post to her, considering that this is the first time in three years that I will spend Mother’s Day with my precious little mommykins!

If absence makes the heart grow fonder, then Mom and I are about ready to burst with love and excitement!

All things considered, I think it’s safe to say that I am the perfect Mother’s Day present for my mom. I mean, think about it: I was away at Rust, and Heaven only knows how much I wanted to fly out and be with my mom, if only for Mother’s Day weekend. Oh, sure—I always made sure that I mailed off a Mother’s Day card for her, and I always called her on the day, just to hear her voice, but yet and still, it just wasn’t the same without me being there to see that warm smile on her face and hear that light chuckle in her voice when she says, “Oh, you little HoneyBee!”

Well, all that is gonna happen today! In a few moments, I’m gonna surprise her with her Mother’s Day roses and card, and then she’s gonna realize that I’ve got ribbons stuck to my cheeks… hahahahaha!

Let’s face it, y’all—I’m the gift that keeps on giving!

Well, let me go ahead and close up today’s blog post, but I’ll be talking to y’all later on. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Now That I Am An Official Rust College Alumna...

Hi, Everybody!

Even though my commencement was a mere three days ago, I still feel the excitement in the air now that I am officially a Rust College alumna. The reason why y’all didn’t hear from me at all yesterday was because I spent most of the day packing up and moving my things out of Emma Elzy Hall. I’ll be heading back to L.A. this Friday, which I count as a blessing on account of I’m just not ready to say goodbye just yet.

I kinda touched base on it a couple days ago in my late Saturday evening blog post, but I don’t think I went into full detail. I omitted the fact that I suffered a minor anxiety attack. Thankfully, I was lying down on my bed when it happened. I just started hyperventilating and my heart was racing like crazy. Let me ask y’all a question: Have you ever hoped, wished, and prayed for a dream to come true, and when that dream did come true, how did you feel? Well, lemme tell y’all: When I realized that I was just mere moments away from my commencement ceremony, all of those emotions that I had my freshman year returned maybe ten times worse! I think I had stated that it was the same emotions but a different scenario—well, the pomp and circumstance is over, but those emotions never left me. When I packed up my last item and zipped up my suitcase, I got hit real hard by reality. I actually had to look around the room for a couple of minutes. My days as a Rust College student are officially over, and I am now about to enter the real world, if I haven’t done so already.

Since I’ve moved out, I’m staying with my Great Aunt Donna until I leave this Friday… and now that I think about it, Neo Theo is leaving this Friday as well. I reckon we’ll meet up with each other at the airport. My fellow alumni have got to meet one last time before we officially go our separate ways… and we will, too!

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


Smooches,
Natasha

I Done Did It!

Well, Y’all—I DONE DID IT!!!

As of yesterday afternoon, I am an official graduate of Rust College, Class of2016… and dammit—it feels fan-freakin-tastic!

Now, y’all already know that my family cut a shine during my commencement ceremony. When I stepped up on that platform and received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education, the first voice I heard was that of my mom’s. Yes, y’all—Mama beat Gramma Jewel to the punch! My mom was all like, “You just go ‘head on, Tasha-Girl, wit’cho bad self!” And to tell y’all the truth, I was not at all embarrassed; in fact, I pointed directly at her and blew her a kiss, and as I headed back to my seat, my entire support group was literally chanting “Natasha! Natasha!” And right then and there, I imitated Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and soaked in the cheers.

What can I say? My family knows me all too well, and vice-versa.

After the ceremony ended, I caught up with the rest of my peeps, and we just got together in one big group circle and cheered. Of course, we took a couple of selfies, and then we met up with our families. Y’all should’ve seen the look on my Gramma Jewel’s face—I could tell that my commencement meant so much to her, especially considering that she is a Class of 1957 Bearcat. Technically speaking, the Bearcat legacy ended with my Great Aunt Reesie in 1959—well since I rekindled that fire, that leaves room for future generations in my family to keep the legacy alive.

And I want to say right now: My entire family notwithstanding, I was not at all surprised to see my former kindergarten teacher Mrs. Martin, nor was I surprised to see Pastor and Mrs. Clark, Mother Davis, and Brother Hawkins. However, I was really taken by surprise when I saw Mr. & Mrs. D and Pastor & Mrs. Rich in attendance. And what a thrill it was for me to introduce Mrs. Martin to Mr. D… and y’all already know that Gramma Jewel took a picture of me, Mr. D, Mrs. Martin, and my fellow alumnus Craig.

You know, I would love to talk about every little detail that took place yesterday afternoon, but we would be all day. With that said, I’m gonna have to cut today’s blog post short, but I promise that I’ll have more to talk about in the days (and probably weeks) to come. Until then, y’all take care and be good.


Smooches,
Natasha

The Last Friday Freestyle... Before Graduation!

Hey, Y’all!

Before I get into today’s blog post, I do want to announce that I am two days away from my graduation from Rust College. The excitement is definitely in the air, and it seems that every second that passes by, I am that much closer to receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. And I have it on great authority that my entire family has safely arrived from L.A. and are chillin’ in Memphis right now. I also have been informed that Pastor and Mrs. Clark’s flight should be landing sometime this afternoon or this evening. I gotta give my pastor and first lady credit—they said that they would be in attendance at my graduation, and doggone it if they didn’t keep their word. I gotta admit, though, that there’s one person who is missing in the equation, and that’s Mother Harriette Fields… but then again, she’s got the best seat in the house up there in Glory!

Oh, and I’ve already picked up my cap and gown this morning, which garnered yet another signature on my card. Now, check this out: Tomorrow is the actual graduation rehearsal, and y’all already know that my peeps and I are gonna practice strutting up the stage—heck, we may even cut a jig or two… hahahaha! All kidding aside, though, I do have a touch of a problem with the dress apparel: According to protocol, the ladies are to wear black or navy shoes, no jewelry, and little makeup. Now, I don’t wear a lot of makeup anyway, nor do I wear any jewelry other than my earrings. However, I was planning on wearing my lavender shoes to match the dress that I’m gonna wear on Sunday. Now, I don’t mind following protocol, but I hope that Rust is ready to hear me grumble about how my shoes don’t match my dress—I’m just sayin’!

In other news, this has been a rather trying week for the entertainment world. It is often said that certain terms of events happen in threes—well, we lost three entertainers within the course of five days. It began this past Sunday when Doris Roberts (who played Marie Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond) passed away at age 90, then Joanie Laurer (best known by wrestling fans as Chyna) passed away two days ago at age 46, and then Prince (the legend who sang Purple Rain) passed away just yesterday morning at age 57. On behalf of my family, we send our condolences to the family, friends, and fans of these three greats.

Well, I guess that’s gonna do for today. If anything else comes up, I’ll be sure to let y’all know; otherwise, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow. Either way, y’all will be hearing from me soon, but until then, y’all take care and be good.


Smooches,
Natasha

A Surprise Appearance from the Fam

Hi, Y’all!

So, guess who showed up in Bearcat Country this morning and surprised me!

That’s right, y’all—with my graduation just three days away, I am happy to report that my mom and dad, Cousin Becky, and Gramma Jewel have finally arrived, and they brought along Mother Davis and Brother Hawkins! Oh, I sure hope that Rust is ready for the rowdy rambunctiousness that my peeps are gonna deliver come Sunday, because it is officially on and crack-a-lackin’!

Mom told me that their flight landed in Memphis about 7:30am CST, and they got their rental car and made a beeline to see little old me. At the risk of sounding all mushy, they really know how to make a gal feel special! And yes, my peeps got to converse with my family once again… and Neo Theo was doing some hellified flirting with Becky!

I really can’t tell who’s more excited out of the five of us. I mean, I’ve got a reason to be excited on account of I’m the one that’s walking that aisle to get my Bachelor’s Degree in three days. Then again, my mom and dad have a reason to be excited because I’m their onliest child and they’ve invested so much in me. And then again, Gramma Jewel’s got more than enough reason to be excited; after all, I’m the last grandchild in the family to graduate from college. Even more so than that, though, I will officially be Gramma Jewel’s fellow alumna in a mere three days, and I already know that this means so much to Gramma Jewel. And then too, Becky’s got a reason to be excited because she’ll be graduating from Chamberlain University around this time next year—and y’all already know that we’re gonna show up and show out when she receives her Bachelor’s Degree.

So, in essence, we all have legitimate individual and collective reasons to be excited for my graduation… and now that I think about it, Gramma Jewel once said that when one person graduates from college, the whole family graduates. Well, I can only imagine what’s gonna happen in three days’ time when Mrs. Martin and Pastor & Mrs. Clark join in with my family. Like I said: I sure hope that Rust College is ready for the Joneses, because when we celebrates, we celebrates!

Well, that’s gonna do it for now. Until tomorrow, y’all take care and be good.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

More Than Friends—They're My Brothers and Sisters!

Hi, Everybody!

No surprises here—we are officially four days away from my big day! And just for the record, y’all can expect more of the same until the big day finally arrives.

So, this afternoon, I was chillin’ with my peeps in the cafeteria, and the roundtable discussion involved exchanging phone numbers and email addresses immediately, because we needed to keep in touch. Well, it was then that Neo Theo—who will be receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Print Journalism—took down everybody’s name, number, and email address, and made it his mission to email us with the pertinent information.

And then, Ruby took it upon herself to ask us a very important question: “Graduation notwithstanding, what is your most memorable moment here at Rust?”

Well, I had to think long and hard about my answer, mainly because I had stored up so many memories within these past four years in Bearcat Country. With that said, I opted to go last while I listened to everyone else. Imagine my surprise when all four of my friends said that their most memorable moment was meeting “some sassy chick named Natasha Renee Stewart.” I was flattered, to say the least, as Ruby chimed in and said, “Tasha-Girl, you just don’t know how blessed we are to know you. I mean, to think—you could’ve chosen to attend any college in all of California, but you chose Rust College. Tasha, on behalf of the ‘Peep Patrol,’ I just want you to know that we love you so very much. Southern Cali’s loss was Rust College’s gain, and we are so glad to call you sister and friend.”

If Ruby ‘nim was trying to mess with my heartstrings, then they were doing a damn good job.

“Now, Tasha, we know that you’re mushy,” Ruby continued. “But we feel that we should give you your flowers now—you are truly one of a kind.”

So, there I was, smiling modestly and trying my damnedest not to so much as sniffle, but that didn’t work out too well. I promised Ruby that I would beat the hell out of her for making me show my mushy side, and of course she laughed at my comment.

But then it was my turn, and I basically said that I couldn’t really narrow it down to one memory because the Rust College experience was all that and then some. And of course, one of the experiences involved bonding with four individuals named Ruby Jean Hudspeth, Theodore James Campbell, Craig Michael Dixon, and Azalea Cherie Thomas… and right then and there, I presented them with their very own report cards, where I gave them each an A-plus for their time, talent, and friendship. And because I’m gonna be a kindergarten teacher, I gave them all stars and happy faces. It should come as no surprise that they enjoyed their gifts and were very appreciated, then Azalea said, “See, Tasha—this is why we are blessed to know you.”

My Gramma Jewel always said, “Let the life I live, speak for me.” Well, it goes without saying, but according to my peeps, the life that I’m living thus far is speaking in great volumes.

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


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Preppin' Up for Graduation!

Hey, Y’all!

So, with graduation coming up in just five days, my peeps and I were chillin’ in the cafeteria this afternoon at our favorite table that we sat for all four years here at Rust, and we have decided to make grand entrances when we receive our respective Bachelor’s Degrees. Check this out, y’all: Ruby is gonna strut like a supermodel, Azalea is gonna recite an original poem called “About Damn Time,” and I’m gonna imitate Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson! As for the fellas, Neo Theo says that he’s gonna moonwalk across the stage and back to his seat, and Craig is gonna run around the auditorium and shout “Yes! Yes! Yes!” a la Daniel Bryan.

And of course, y’all know we’re only kidding—or are we? Hahahaha!

But seriously, the topic of the week has revolved around the fact that our graduation is rapidly approaching us. Now, I know that I made mention of it a couple days ago, but it bears repeating: It seemed like yesterday that Ruby, Theo, Craig, Azalea, and I were all little naïve freshmen trying to find out where we fit in. And here’s the amazing thing about our four-year journey together: All five of us are only children, but throughout our time at Rust, we became brothers and sisters. And considering that we never joined a Greek organization (though we have the chance to do so if we go to grad school), we wore a lot of blue and white, so much so, that we were considered honorary Zetas and Sigmas.

And while we were yet reminiscing, I was hit in the face with an idea: Seeing as how I consider Ruby, Theo, Craig, and Azalea to be my brothers and sisters, I’ve got to show them just how much they mean to me… matter of fact, let me close up this blog post, and I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Graduation is Right Around the Corner!

Hey, Y’all!

Well, it sure has been one crazy day today, what with these exit interviews and collecting signatures and all, but I stand on record to say that it is all well worth it, considering that my graduation is right around the corner. I am literally six days away from walking that aisle and achieving my greatest academic achievement to date.

This evening, I was chillin’ in the cafeteria with my peeps, and we were all talking about the memories that we gained in these four short years. Of course, I brought up how I began as a timid little freshman girl who planned on being a introvert, but I soon discovered that my plan was shot to hell when I hung around Ruby Jean Hudspeth, who has proven to be the sister that I never had. And of course, there’s my other homegirl Azalea, who is more quiet than I am… and that’s saying a helluva lot!

Oh, and I talked to my mom and dad this afternoon. They wanted me to know that they already got their tickets, and they’re flying out here by Thursday evening or Friday morning. Now, y’all already know that my Gramma Jewel is making her way down here as well—she ain’t gonna miss my graduation for anything in the world. I think she’s heading out this way by Thursday morning. In case y’all forgot: When my family celebrates, we celebrates!

Well, that’s all the news that I’ve got for now, but I’ll be talking to y’all sometime tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Eight Days Away, Y'all!

Hey, Y’all!

Oh my word—I cannot believe that in eight days, I will officially earn my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Rust College! Some tell me: Where in the world did all that time go? It seemed like yesterday that I was a mere college freshman, making my debut to Bearcat Country, and now we have arrived to this point. I can tell that I’m very excited about the great milestone in my life, but I gotta admit that there’s a part of me that is a little emotional right now. Let’s face it—I have some great memories and greater friends  in my four years here at Rust, and even more so than that, I’ve grown quite accustomed to the Southern ways, in particular my Southern drawl that I cannot seem to get rid of… and quite honestly, I like my Southern accent!

Yet and still, I miss my Southern Cali home, and I’ll be back home soon.

So, according to my schedule, I’ve got an exit interview to take care of this upcoming Monday, and I’ve got all these events and activities that are mandatory for a graduating senior to attend… for a moment, I was hyperventilating  because it just occurred to me that I am graduating in eight days. Lord have mercy on my soul—this is what I’ve dreamed about for so long, and the moment of truth is right around the corner.

Well, I hate to cut this blog post short, but I gotta get going—Ruby, Azalea, and I are gonna take a trip to Memphis this afternoon, if for nothing but to celebrate our sisterly bond. I’ll holla at y’all later, but until then, take care and be good.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Happy #74, Mrs. Martin!

Hi, Y’all!

 

So, today’s blog post is dedicated to my former kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Ingrid D. Martin, and it is quite apropos that I talk about Mrs. Martin on account of today is her birthday—she is 74 years young today!

 

Naturally, I called her around 10am CST this morning and left a birthday message on her voicemail, and she just now called me back to thank me for thinking of her. Now, check this out, y’all: Mrs. Martin stated rather emphatically that she’s gonna be there on Sunday, April 24, 2016 to see me receive my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education… that’s right, y’all—Mrs. Martin is gonna be making a cameo appearance, as well as making her debut in Bearcat Country. As you know, I mailed off the invitations about two weeks ago, and of course I had to send one to Mrs. Martin… and y’all already know that I am just tickled pink about this! Let’s just put it this way: When your former kindergarten teacher goes out of her way to see one of her students graduate from an out-of-state college, you gotta be very special—well, I am very special to Mrs. Martin.

 

Okay, y’all—I had best get going, but y’all take it easy, and I’ll holla at y’all later on. Until next time, y’all take care and be good.

 

Oh, and Mrs. Martin—HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, ONE MO’ GINN!!!

 

 

Hugs & Kisses

Natasha

Plenty Reasons to Celebrate Today!

Hi, Everybody!

 

Yes, I am aware that it’s been a minute since y’all last heard from me, but the bottom line is that I’m here. And as y’all can see from the title of today’s blog post, I’ve got plenty good reasons as to why March 24, 2016 is so special to me. For one thing, today is my Auntie Cherri’s forty-eighth birthday… that’s right, y’all—my Auntie Cherri is 48 years old today, and as is evident by the picture, she doesn’t look a day over twenty-three.

By the way: This picture of me and Auntie Cherri was taken after our family reunion two years ago. Auntie Cherri’s the one who taught me that the most dangerous woman in the world is the one who knows her worth—well, thanks to her teachings and inspirations, I happen to be one of the most dangerous women in the world! Heck, this picture is enough proof that we are definitely forces to be reckoned with.

The other reason as to why this day is so special: Well, I am officially one month away from my graduation. It won’t be long until I hear the dignitaries call my name to get my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. I’m thinking about strutting up to the stage… that is, if they’ll allow it.

Wow, y’all—I’m really a month away from graduating! Where in the world did all that time go?

Well, I hate to cut this blog post short, but since there’s nothing else to talk about, I reckon I’ll holla at y’all later. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

The Prodigal Son Has Returned to the WWE!

Hi, Everybody!

Yes, I realize that it’s been a minute since y’all heard from me, but that’s not the issue right now. The real issue is…

SHANE MCMAHON IS BACK IN THE WWE, BABY!!!

Now, this may not be news to some of y’all, and I understand that, but when you’ve grown up with your grandparents and have watched years of wrestling like I have, then you know how epic this news is for a wrestling fan! You see, Shane McMahon left the WWE about six years ago, and since then, his presence was heavily missed. When I first started watching wrestling in 1999, I remember Shane McMahon as one of the prominent figures on television. Although I didn’t like him as a bad guy, he earned my respect rather quickly when he proved that he could stand up to the likes of Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, and even his own dad!

And let’s not get started on his “Love Her or Leave Her” street fight against the late Andrew “Test” Martin… WOW!!! When Shane leapt off that turnbuckle and dropped an elbow across Test on the announcer’s table, even I had to give Shane his props.

Well, imagine my surprise when I come back from the library, and I get calls from my Uncle Ronnie, Uncle Gregory, and Cousin Jade, all demanding me to watch only the first half hour of Monday Night Raw. I knew it had to have been good, and let’s face it—I hadn’t watched a lot of WWE in a while, so I decided to go ahead and watch it on the WWE’s YouTube channel. I saw that Stephanie McMahon had won the Legacy Award, and just as she was about to speak…

 

HERE COMES THE MONEY!!!
HERE COMES THE MONEY!!!

The crowd in the arena was crazy-loud, and they got even louder when Shane McMahon (now grey-haired but still stylish in his suit and fresh Jordans) burst through the curtain and performed his legendary Shane-O-Mac Shuffle! I was so excited that I started screaming. Ruby and Azalea said that I had tears in my eyes… hell, I probably did! I mean, it’s been a minute since I had a feel-good moment like yesterday evening.

Long story short, Shane is sick of his sister Stephanie running the WWE into the ground, and he wants his place back in line. Well, Vince McMahon stated that he will grant Shane’s wish, so long as Shane defeats the Undertaker inside Hell in a Cell at WrestleMania 32.

Talk about a conflict of interest! I want Shane to have control of WWE, but damn—not like this!

We shall see how this plays out until WrestleMania, but until then, let’s just enjoy the fact that Shane-O-Mac is back, Babies!


Smooches,
Natasha

Hey, Y'all! It's Been A Minute!

Hi, Everybody! Long time, no holla!

Yes, I am fully aware that it’s been a good month since y’all last heard from me, and I can assure you all that I have a valid reason behind my lackadaisical (and perhaps even backsliding) blog posts: As you are all aware, I am just eighty-one days away from graduating from Rust… not that I’m counting down or anything (LOL!), and in the process of preparing for my big day, I have been catching up with all my friends and fellow Rustites, bringing them up to speed what I was doing in Southern Cali while I was away for eight months.

Even though a month has passed since I last spoke to you all, not much has really changed since my return t o Bearcat Country. At the same time, though, I do have a story that y’all might find interesting: I may have mentioned once or twice that I have only one class left to take—Student Teaching Seminar—afterwhich I will have fulfilled all of the requirements to obtain my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Well, as it turns out, I have to take Student Teaching Seminar this module as opposed to next module. No biggie—I just enrolled in the class during registration day. And then I messed around and missed the first day of class! I was so embarrassed, but then I got an email from the instructor explaining that she would start the class on January 13.

Talk about a great big relief!

By the way: My instructor treats this class just like a seminar. We meet every Wednesday at 10:30am CST for two hours, but we had a bonus class this past Friday, and there is plenty of dialogue between the instructor and us aspiring teachers. I gotta tell y’all—I am really enjoying this seminar/class because it gives the students an opportunity to experience the life of a teacher, and considering my internship at Carter Elementary, my summer job at Culver City Children’s Center, and my experience as a Sunday School teacher, I already have some experience under my belt… and yes, y’all already know that I shared those experiences with my instructor and my fellow classmates. There is a parallel in teaching a Sunday School class, an elementary school class, and an after school children’s learning center, in that the students learn something in all settings.

I can tell y’all now: I’ve got about three and a half weeks left until my finals, and at the rate I’m going, I know that I know that I’m gonna pass this seminar/class!

Well, I hate to cut this blog post short, but I gotta do so. However, I will be back sometime this week with another update… heck, I may just have a random blog post about whatever is on my mind. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Back At Bearcat Country, And All Is Well!

Happy New Year, Everybody—and greetings from Bearcat Country!

That’s right, y’all—I am back at Rust College, and I am ready to take it to… a whole nutha level! Now, I would like to state for the record that I had a great New Year’s Day celebration with my family… and of course, it was a double celebration, what with my Cousin Vanessa turning 26 and all (she’s a New Year Baby, don’t’cha know). And of course, there was my last Sunday at St. Matthew Baptist Church, where Pastor Clark asked me to give my church family a brief oratory. Well, never one to back down—especially nowadays—I walked up to the podium and said, “Well, all I have to say to you, my church family, is this: We are literally three months and counting until that great day that I, Natasha Renee Stewart, receive my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.”

And I trust that 2016 kicked off in a big way for each and every one of you… shoot, just by the mere fact that this is Day #4 of a brand-new year is a great testimony for all of us. Millions didn’t make it, but I’m so grateful that I’m one of the ones who did.

So, as I am typing up this blog post, so many thoughts are running through my mind. For starters, I was totally thrown for a loop when I saw the results of the tornado that touched down just a few weeks ago. I couldn’t do anything except say a prayer for those who lost lives and homes, and then I thanked God that he spared my girl Ruby—after all, I’ve looked at Ruby as the sister that I never had, and her mom and dad have become my second parents lo these four years.  I am also grateful that Rust College is still standing strong, and that Ruby and I are this close to graduation.

And speaking of which, I got preregistered this morning, and much like I figured, I have only one class left that pertains to my studies, and it’s not until the fourth module. What am I gonna do with all this time on my hands? I mean, the last thing I need is an idle mind—and we all know who uses that for a workshop! Well, I’ve got plenty ways to keep busy, so I’m be pretty darn occupied until the fourth module.

Well, y’all, I really hate to cut this blog post short, but I gotta do so. Besides, it’s my first day back, and Ruby, Azalea, and I are having our first girls’ night since summer school… and y’all know that they wanna know what happened when I met up with Ray the other day!

Until tomorrow, 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

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

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