And All of My Academic Credentials Are Officially Completed!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, it goes without saying, but yes—my Rust College academic career officially came to a successful close this morning. I completed my last final exam ever, and now it’s time to take it to… a whole nutha level!

Yes, I know that my last academic class was merely a seminar, but y’all gotta understand—that was no ordinary seminar, and I had to prove to my professor, my class, and myself most of all, that I had what it took to ace this class. Well, I proved myself once more and again, and I’m a winner in the long run.

So, seeing as how I have officially completed the world of academia, the only thing standing between me and graduation is plenty of space and a helluva lot of opportunity. I’ve thought about taking another elective just for the heck of it, but to be honest, I would much rather hibernate in my dorm room and catch up on some much deserved R&R. We shall see what I do come Monday, but I know that I am grateful that I have completed my last class.

Look out, Commencement—here I come!

I Am In My Zone, Y'all!

Hi, Everybody!

 

I trust that you’re all having a great evening.

Just in case I didn’t make it obvious enough, I’m in the zone right now. Finals are coming up next Thursday, and I’m studying everything that I think is gonna be on the test. Yes, I know what y’all are thinking: “Natasha, you only have one class during this summer session. Why are you stressing?”

Well, I can assure you that I am not stressing, but as you know, my family considers it a sin to half-ass anything. Come on, y’all—I know I haven’t said it in a while, but as my Grampa Clark used to always say: If you’re gonna do something, use your full ass!”

And that’s exactly what I intend to do.

Ever since my last blog post the other day, I made sure that I take at least three hours to study for my finals. Y’all can ask Ruby—hell, she’s even been quizzing me, just to make sure that I’m not slipping. She tried to trip me up on yesterday, though. She asked me a question that I know we did go over in class, and I let her know about it. Ruby then said, “You’re quick on your toes, ain’tcha Tasha?” I just simply winked and let her know that I couldn’t be tripped up… although, as I mentioned earlier on, I don’t know what’s gonna be on the final. Perhaps Ruby did that to let me know that the very least thing could be on the test. That’s what I’ve been studying like a mad woman—I’ll be damned before I get tripped up! I’ve come too far from where I started.

Speaking of which, I reckon it’s time for me to close up today’s blog post and let this noggin of mine rest up a bit. Rest assured, though: I’m gonna be right back on it tomorrow. Until then, y’all be sure to keep your girl lifted up in prayer.


Peace Out!
Natasha

An Exciting Revelation

Hey, Everybody!

I’m back with another blog post… and I know y’all got jokes out there. I’m sure someone is looking at this and thinking to themselves: “Wow, two blog posts in a row—that must be a new world’s record for the Vipress.”

I know y’all are thinking that, because I was thinking the same thing when I sat down at my computer… hahahaha!

Y’all ain’t gonna believe this (although some of you probably will), but I suffered from a senior moment yesterday evening. I almost forgot that I’m only taking one class during this summer session. I also forgot that final exams are next Thursday, and seeing as how I’m only taking one class, I only have one final!

Like I said yesterday: Y’all are lookin’ at one excited Vipress!

So, y’all already know what this means: I’m gonna be in the zone like never before. Yes, I know that I only have one final, but the last thing I need is to take it lightly. I don’t need to underestimate my studies—I’ve come too far to slip up and have it all taken away from me. With that said, I’m gonna start a study session sometime this weekend. Oh, and for the record, I am loving this Early Childhood Education class. I’ve learned a lot in such a short period of time… and incidentally, I finally heard from Mr. D’s daughter-in-law Jessica. She gave me some good pointers on how to be a great teacher, and she also suggested that I check out the Culver City Children’s Center when I return to L.A. next week. She said that she would put in a good word for me.

Now that I think about it, Jessica may have a great idea! I mean, think about it: I could work at my internship, and then volunteer some hours at the Culver City Children’s Center, and…

 

HOT DAMN, Y’ALL—THIS IS GONNA BE THE GREATEST SUMMER VACATION EVER!!!

 

Well, I guess I’d better get going, but I’ll holla at y’all later. Until next time, y’all be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

It's Over... It's All Over, Y'all!

Hi, Everyone!

I think WWE wrestler Daniel Bryan said it best: YES!!! YES!!! YES!!! YES!!! YES!!!

Y’all, I am officially done with my finals, and I have successfully completed my sophomore year here at Rust College! I finished my last final around 11am CST this morning, and I’ve been celebrating since then. I want y’all to know that I didn’t let y’all down—I stuck it out all the way to the very end, and I am confident in knowing that I passed each and every last one of my finals… yes, especially the finals that pertained to anything mathematical. I also want to thank each and every last one of y’all for keeping a sista in your prayers; as I may have mentioned on several occasions, this module alone was a full and busy one, but somehow I made it through.

And y’all wanna know something else—I enjoyed every last minute of this module!

Now comes the next phase in my academic career, and with the summer semester coming up in about five days, that could only mean that summer school is around the corner. I’ve got my classes all lined up, but I’m not gonna look at that schedule until Monday. In the meantime, the Rust College 148^th Commencement is coming up this Sunday, and I’ve already made arrangements with Ruby and Theo to get front row seats. Just think, y’all: After this Sunday’s commencement is etched in the history books, I will officially be two years away from my own graduation. I wish I could graduate right now, but I’m willing to wait. Besides, nothing ever comes easy—I learned that just this module alone!

Okay, y’all, I reckon I’d better get up and… oh, that’s right—I ain’t got no mo’ class ‘til this Wednesday! I reckon I’ll just sit up here and rest. Y’all take it easy!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Almost At My Destination, Y'all!

Hi, Everyone!

I trust that everyone had a great Easter weekend, much like me. I spent it with my Great Aunt Reesie, Cousin Keith, Cousin Jade, and Cousin Erica in Nashville, and I want y’all to know that I attended my second consecutive Sunrise Service yesterday, and stayed until the end of Sunday School. When we got home, we had dinner, and then they dropped me off at the campus around 9pm CST. I talked to Mom and Dad for a minute, and then around 9:45pm CST, I was knocked out like a light.

So, here we are now—Monday, April 21, 2014… and y’all know what that means: I gotta get mentally prepared for these here final exams. My first final is this Wednesday evening—that’s when I take my Psychology of Exceptional Students. Then I have the double-whammy on Thursday; I take my General Psychology final at 8am, and then I take my Mathematics for Elementary Teachers final at 1pm. And then on Friday, I take my Intermediate Algebra final at 8am, after which I am done with the final module of my sophomore year.

I may as well give y’all a heads-up that y’all may not hear from me until this Friday, what with all this studying and everything. If that’s the case, I am once again requesting that you all keep me in your prayers—I wanna make y’all proud!

Until the next time, I’ll holla at’cha!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Progress Report of Sorts

Happy Friday, Everybody!

We are literally one week away until the end of this here 2013-14 school year. I don’t think I’ve ever been so thrilled about a school year coming to an end! Lemme tell y’all: I’ve come to expect the unexpected here at Rust College, but I never expected this module to work me like it did. This module was the most that I had ever worked… but I loved every last minute of it! I enjoyed proving myself that I could go the distance. I recognize and realize that I was not in competition with anybody other than myself, and look at me now, y’all!

Although it’s been a minute since I’ve seen a progress report, I was informed by my Intermediate Algebra instructor that I have managed to maintain a 93 percent overall in the class. Instead of giving my instructor the usual spiel, I simply acknowledge that it was nobody but Jesus, and I left it at that. And if I couldn’t get better news, I have discovered that taking the Intermediate Algebra class has helped me in my Mathematics for Elementary Teachers class, in which I have an overall 89 percent. Now, I’m not saying that I’ll be teaching Algebra to my little kindergarteners, nor am I saying that I’m an all-star math whiz—I’m simply saying that I have applied myself this module and reaped plenty rewards!

Well, I reckon I had get going, but before I do, I want to thank each and every one of you who took the time out to pray for a sista—as y’all can see, your prayers were heard and your encouragement was well received. And even though I know that I will ace next week’s finals, I am still soliciting prayers from you all. Together, we can make this final module a successful one!

Until next time, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

I'm In The "Final Exam" Zone, Y'all!

Good Monday Afternoon, Y’all!

As you all can tell by the title of today’s blog post, I’ve got a couple days left until my final exams, and I am in the zone! Though I haven’t talked much about my academic life up here at Rust, I can assure that I have not be caught slippin’—my grades are still as strong as they ever have been. As a matter of fact, I’m still bustin’ out those A’s in both classes… heck, let me put it this way: ¡Estoy haciendo muy bien en ambas clases!

Basically, I just said that I’m doing very well in both classes. And for the record, I tried to find a third class for this module, but as you probably guessed, I was unsuccessful in doing so. I’m cool with it, though—I’ll just find an extra class to take for the next module.

In the meantime in between time, I am quite focused on my final exams for this week. I don’t know if I mentioned it or not, but I take my Language Arts K-8 final this Thursday at 10:30am CST, and I take my Spanish II final on Friday at 8am CST. My original plan is to remain focused on my Language Arts final, mainly because I have a feeling that my Spanish II final will be muy muy facil. At the same time, I don’t wanna mess around and not study for Spanish II at all. I’m probably gonna study a little bit for it tomorrow, but for now, I’m gonna focus on my Language Arts K-8.

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

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Preparing for Finals, and a Tribute to Viscera

Hi, Everyone!

It’s about that time again, y’all—I am officially one week away from taking my final exams.

Since the start of the Third Module, I’ve done exceptionally well in my two classes. My love for teaching has really been on display in my Language Arts K-8 class, and as for my Spanish II class… well, let me put it this way: Mi profesor dice que lo estoy haciendo tan bien, ella está cuestionando si realmente soy una chica de Cali. Mi profesor de español también dice que tengo una habilidad natural para enseñar una clase de español en el futuro.

I only have one thing to say: Très bien pour moi!  Hahaha!

Well, I really don’t have anything else to talk about today, so I’m just gonna close up this here blog post and start all over again tomorrow. I know, I know—it’s very rare that I post short blog, and I guess there really is a first time for everything. Besides, as I previously mentioned, I’ve got finals coming up next week. I can tell you this, though: When I get into my studying mode, I’m unstoppable… next week ain’t gonna be no different than any other time!

Oh, before I close today’s blog post, I do need to make an announcement: On behalf of my family, we would like to send our condolences to the family, friends, and fans of wrestler Nelson Frazier, Jr., who passed away this past Tuesday. When I first started watching wrestling, I knew him by his Viscera persona, but my mom and dad knew him better as King Mabel. He was only 43 years old, y’all—as a matter of fact, he had just celebrated his birthday on Valentine’s Day. One thing’s for certain: Whether he was the fun-loving hip-hop rapper, the mean hip-hop king, a member of the Corporate Ministry, or even the scary Big Daddy V, my family will most definitely miss him.

Thanks for the memories, Big Vis!

Peace Out, Y’all!
Natasha

Finally Made It To The Finish Line!

Hi, Everyone!

Well, it’s official: I am finally at the finish line, y’all—I turned in all three of my final exam papers for my three respective classes! Now it’s time for me to focus on the next step; in just two more days, I’ll be making my return to Los Angeles. With the exception of space and opportunity, there is nothing standing in the way of me and my return to where it all began. Yes, y’all—I’m still a Cali girl through and through, no matter what. I reckon I’ll get some packing done this evening and then finish the rest of it on Friday morning.

I gotta tell y’all: I really didn’t expect to be writing as much as I have been, but at the same time, I’ve really been using my imagination, as well as coming up with innovative methods to use for the time I really do become a teacher. And I also want to point out that I’ve really been working my ass off just in this semester alone. Now, y’all already know that I love to have fun and joke around—I am a bit of a social butterfly—but when it comes down to my passion, I go into overdrive… overtime... hell, I’m the charts when it comes to my passion. After all, like wrestler Mark Henry says: THAT’S WHAT I DO!!!

Well, y’all, I really hate to cut this blog post short, but ain’t much really going on today—Mama says that it “beez” that way sometimes! In any event, y’all enjoy the rest of your day, and I’ll holla at y’all sometime tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Just About Near The Finish Line!

Hi, Everyone!

Let me say first of all that the sun is out, but it’s STILL freakin’ cold out here! Thank God for all kinds of winter clothes, because I’d be freezing my tail off by now.

There’s an old saying among the women in my household: Ain’t nothin’ sexy about being sick! The other day, I was watching the news, and they showed a woman wearing a sundress with a simple sweater, and yes—she was wearing open-toed shoes. I told Ruby: “Is there a way I can jump through the screen and kick that woman’s ass?!” I’m serious, y’all—that made no sense for that lady to be wearing that flimsy summer cloth, and it was a good fortysomething degrees. Hell, I caught a cold on her behalf! I can only imagine how embarrassingly sick that chick’s gonna be when she’s at home recovering from her stupidity—poetic justice will be so sweet!

Well, y’all, the countdown to L.A. notwithstanding, I am happy to report that I am almost finished with my Fine Arts final exam paper. I raised some interesting questions about the work of art that we have all come to know as simply The Thinker. This is just an excerpt from my paper:

“It is easy to question what is going through the mind of the Thinker, all things considered, but one must delve a little further and ask: What thoughts were running through sculptor August Rodin when he was given the inspiration and motivation to create The Thinker?”

Y’all liked that, didn’t y’all? Hahaha! I tell y’all: When you’re an aspiring teacher, imagination is mandatory. If you ask me, though, I’d go as far as to say that imagination is a legacy in my family, dating back to my great-great grandparents Horace & Bernice Brown… and that reminds me: With Black History Month rapidly approaching, I think I’ll highlight my great-great grandparents in a special blog.

But I digress.

In any event, I’m gonna need y’all to pray for me, because I’ll be turning in all my final exam papers into my respective classes, and that’ll be the end of it. Right now, though, I’m gonna take advantage of all this free time and look over each paper just one mo’ ginn—you know, to make sure that everything is copacetic… and on the up-and-up, too! Hahaha!

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Y'all Can Officially Start the Countdown!

Good Chilly Monday Afternoon, Y’all!

Before I begin today’s blog post, I just want to say: DAMN—IT’S FREAKIN’ COLD OUT HERE!!!

You’d think that I’d be acclimated to the cold temperatures out here in the South, but allow me to give you this special news bulletin: I’m not acclimated to this climate! And I was on the phone with my Auntie Cherri yesterday evening, and she told me that it was thirty-nine degrees in Long Beach. When she told me that, I almost cussed, but thankfully I kept it to myself. What’s funny, though, is that Auntie Cherri said: “Yeah, I know what you’re thinkin’, Tasha!”

I said nothing, but I did let out a chuckle.

Well, as y’all can tell by the title and photograph of today’s blog post, I am officially starting the countdown. According to my itinerary, I will be leaving for L.A. this Friday at 4pm CST, and arriving at LAX around 6:30pm PST. Until then, however, I’ve got to focus on my final exams… actually, I have to focus on one final exam—my Fine Arts paper. For the record, I wanna express my gratitude to God that all of my final exams are five-page papers. I also thank God that I have already finished up my other two papers; in that same light, though, I’m gonna go back and review any mistakes or errors that I may have overlooked. Right now, I’ve got to focus on my Fine Arts paper—I made mention a couple days ago that I would write about The Thinker, and I haven’t changed my mind. I already have my introduction and my closing statement written out in my mind; it’s just that middle part that’s got me concerned. What I mean is this: I know what to write, but I don’t know what to write. I sure hope that made sense to y’all.

With that said, I guess I’d better close up today’s blog post and get started writing on The Thinker. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow, but until then, y’all take care and stay as warm as possible.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

My Humanities Paper Is Complete!

Good Saturday Afternoon, Y’all!

I think I went to bed around two o’clock this morning (Mississippi time)—oh, I’ve been gettin’ it in on these papers, I tell ya what!

In this go-round, I dedicated all my time to my Intro to Humanities final exam paper. As I mentioned in an earlier blog from this week, I had to write a five-page paper about my favorite work of art, my favorite literary piece, or my favorite musical piece. Well, I kept my promise and I remembered my paper from my Fine Arts class where I wrote about God’s sunsets. Now, whereas I did copy and paste, I also remembered what I learned in my English classes from my freshman year, and I cited my very own paper as a reference.

In terms of my favorite musical piece, I mentioned The Blue Danube by Johann Strauss II, and Also Sprach Zarathustra by Richard Strauss… I don’t think the two gentlemen are related, but then again, anything’s possible. Anyway, apart from the reason that these two classical pieces are my favorites, I may have mentioned in my paper that I’m actually a fan of classical music; as a matter of fact, it is because of these two legendary classical pieces that I’m contemplating joining the Rust College Band before I graduate. The only caveat is that I need to learn to play an instrument, but that’s another story for another day. And don’t worry, y’all—I was very careful not to mention my added incentive for choosing Also Sprach Zarathustra… let’s just say that I relate that classical piece to a gentleman named Ric Flair! Hahaha!

And finally, as it relates to a literary piece, I chose a poem by Langston Hughes, entitled Mother to Son. The first couple of lines are quite interesting, as the mother drops some knowledge and wisdom on her son with the following line: “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” She goes on to explain the deformities and blemishes that encountered while climbing her personal stairs. And yes, y’all—while I admit that I am no poet, I dug deep down into this particular poem, and I have a newfound respect for it. You see, this poem is basically pointing out that life ain’t as easy as we think. A perfect example of that would be the life of Joseph in the book of Genesis. He had a dream that he would be a ruler, but he had to go through some stuff in order to get to that level. The same could be said for me; I desire to be a teacher, but even I gotta admit that the journey is a rather lengthy one, full of detours and roadblocks, and all kinds of distractions.  It sho’ ain’t easy, but at the same time, I acknowledge that it’s very rewarding so far.

Okay, y’all—I gotta take a little break and walk around the track to clear my head before I work on my final paper. I’ll holla at y’all later.

Peace Out,
Natasha

Already Ready for Next Week's Finals!

Hi, Everyone!

First of all, I want to wish a Happy 78^th Birthday to my fellow Rustite and honorary auntie, Mrs. Gladys Lorraine Nelson. You look good, Lady—keep on keepin’ on!

Well, y’all, judging by the title of today’s blog, y’all already know that I am mentally and physically prepared for next week’s finals. Now, check this out, though: All three of my final exams involve writing five-page term papers. In my Fine Arts class, I am to explain three of my personal favorite works of art. Upon learning the topic for this final, I kinda wish I had saved “God’s Sunsets” for this particular paper, but I’ve got plenty more works of art to choose, so it’s all good. I think I will write about that sculpture known simply as The Thinker. As many times as I’ve viewed that sculpture, I’ve always wondered what the Thinker was thinking about. Heck, I wonder what the sculptor was thinking when he created it.

As far as my Intro to Humanities paper, I have to write about my favorite literature, work of art, or musical genre… and y’all already know me: I’m probably gonna go ahead and write about all three categories. Heck, I may even go the distance and write an extra page and a half! And I just realized that I can talk use my Fine Arts paper about God’s Sunsets and use it in this here paper. Yeah, that’ll definitely work out, as has been proven in Romans 8:28! I also love that classical piece called The Blue Danube. I’ve always loved that piece, even though it’s centuries older than I am.

And then there’s my Intro to Social Sciences term paper, in which I have chosen to discuss the topic of education. Seeing as how I am an aspiring kindergarten teacher, this particular paper should be fairly easy. I’ve already gotten a heads-up on this particular social science, and I’ve got more than enough resources and references just in my family alone. As I’m brainstorming this particular paper, I do want to make it known that education is extremely important on account of we are always learning something new every day—it’s true, it’s true. I’m gonna make sure that I drive that point all the way home, from the first paragraph to the very end.

Well, y’all—I’d better get going on account of I’ve got some serious writing to do. I reckon I’ll start off with my Social Sciences final, seeing as how the ideas and the brainstorms are jumping around all over the place. I’ll holla at y’all later!

Peace Out!

Natasha

Results of Final Exams, Plus Other News!

Hi, Everyone!

I think it goes without saying, but y’all already know me—I’m gonna boldly announce it to the world:

I, Natasha Renee Stewart, knocked my Foundations of Education final exam out the ballpark yesterday evening, and just this morning, I aced my Biblical Studies final exam—and yes, I’m three-for-three, as I successful completed my PRAX I Seminar class just about an hour ago!

Oh yeah, y’all—I’m on a roll, and the only one who can stop me is some chick named Natasha Renee Stewart. And I haven’t yet showed any signs of slowin’ down, either. To prove my point, I also aced my Spanish final; hell, I even got the extra credit questions correctly.

I want to thank each and every last one of y’all for keeping me in your prayers, especially as it related to my PRAX I Seminar class. I tell y’all, those finals last week were pretty tough, but I pulled through and came out a winner… that’s right, y’all—my finals were last week after all!

Lemme tell y’all what happened: I made a mistake in listening to Ruby. What had happened was (LOL), she was reading the schedule from last year’s final exams. Thank goodness that I listened to my instructors, and in turn, checked out the schedule for myself. If I had worn a hat like the Skipper, y’all already know that Ruby would have to play the role of Gilligan… hahaha! And yes, this also means that the second module had officially started this past Monday.

But it’s all good, though—there wasn’t too much harm done, because as I mentioned, I did take my finals, and I do have straight A’s this past module.

So, seeing as how I have officially started the second module three days ago, I can let y’all know what’s up: I’m taking Fine Arts at 8am, Into to Humanities at 10:30am, and Intro to Social Sciences at 1pm. I am also glad to announce that I’m taking Intro to Humanities with my homey Neo Theo. I’m not taking any classes with Ruby, though, but that’s all fine and well. I tell y’all this much: I seem to be out of my comfort zone this time—academically, that is. I always seem to get at least one class per module where that challenges me to the utmost, and in this case, Intro to Social Sciences is that class. I thought I pointed out that I don’t do well in mathematics or science; I’ve constantly stated emphatically that English and Art are my strong points. If the PRAX I Seminar last module hasn’t proven that already, then I don’t know what to tell y’all. Nevertheless, I am up for the challenge, and I’m also here to show the world, so… BRING IT ON!!!

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Bring On Those Finals, Baby!

Happy Monday, Y’all!

Well, judging by the picture that I have for today’s blog post, y’all already know what’s up with me this week. I also trust that y’all got the message from my Gramma Jewel—and I do humbly apologize for this past Saturday. Truth is, a sista’s still buckled down for finals.

I could understand if this was my first rodeo, but I’ve been down this road before; as a matter of fact, it was just last year when I made my debut at Rust. I had a very successful freshman year here in Bearcat Country, and I’m looking forward to an even greater sophomore year. So far it’s been great—challenging as all get-up and go, but great nonetheless. And while I’m taking care not to jump too far ahead of myself, I wanna let y’all know that I am planning on taking a trip to Memphis and spend the weekend with my Great Aunt Donna after I pass the finals… that’s right—I’m speaking it into existence! I’ve already talked to my Great Aunt Donna yesterday afternoon, and I made it known that I would like to stay with her once I confidently walk out of my last class. I already know that she’s gonna try to sing—y’all already know the running joke in our family as it relates to Great Aunt Donna not quitting her day job… hahahaha!

By the way: Remind me to share a blockbuster story sometime this week with you all, but until then, y’all take care, and remember to keep your girl lifted up in prayer.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Time To Buckle Down for Final Exams!

Happy Thursday, Everybody!

Well, we are officially one week away from the final exams, and as you can tell, I am ready, Baby!

I’m taking a look at my schedule, and my finals actually start on next Wednesday—that’s when I take my Foundations of Education class; then on next Thursday, I’ve got Biblical Studies at 8am, and PRAX I Seminar at 1pm; and on next Friday, I take my Spanish class. I’m tellin’ y’all—I am stoked for my finals, particularly my PRAX I Seminar. Speaking of which, I know I haven’t really talked about the aforementioned class as much as I have my others, but in taking that seminar class, I’ve learned a lot about myself as a future teacher. It was discovered that I am stronger in English and History than I am in Mathematics… hell, I coulda told them that—and I did! But anyway, my instructor also pointed out that I have an incredible gift of holding someone’s attention; if I recall correctly, my instructor said that I’m the type of teacher that does not have to raise my voice—well, not yet, anyway!

So basically, I’m telling you all that, because of your prayers and encouragement, I am exceeding in this PRAX I Seminar class.

In other news, I show my Spanish instructor the blog that I posted on yesterday, and she told me that, despite a couple grammatical errors here and there, I did a great job. Matter of fact, she said: “¡Muy excelente, Senorita Stewart!” And then, from what I interpreted, she said that I should consider posting more blogs in español, as a means of retaining what I learned.

Tengo una pregunta: ¿Cómo se dice "Hot Damn!" en español? Hahahaha!

Well, I hate to cut this blog short, y’all, but I gotta get going. Besides, I gotta start bucklin’ down and preparing to study for my finals. Yes, I am aware that finals are next week, but as my Grampa Clark always says—and this time, I gonna say it in español: “¡No voy a ser mediocre, voy a utilizar mi todo!”

Sorry, but that was as close as I could get to saying what Grampa Clark would really say… hahaha!

Hasta Mañana, Peeps!

Smooches,

Natasha

Preppin' Up For Next Week's Finals

Hi, Everyone!

Here it is—Monday, October 7, 2013, and it’s the week before finals.

Yes, I realize the blog that I posted this past Saturday, but as it turns out, I had my dates mixed up. I’m so grateful that I double-checked, just to be sure. I’m even more grateful that Ruby corrected my error. And then too, I’m just as grateful that I spent pretty much all Saturday studying, so it’s not really a big loss—it’s all good from here, y’all!

I can at least give you an update on each class, though… actually, I need not even mention my Foundations of Education class on account of I’m excelling to even beyond my most wildest imagination—yes, I did in fact say “beyond my most wildest imagination.” I really enjoy that class, because it reaffirms what I’ve been saying all along. I keep tellin’ y’all that I was born to teach, yet y’all don’t believe that fat meat’s greasy, so I gotta keep on understandin’ it to y’all; eventually, y’all will get the picture.

I forgot to mention that I had a surprise pop quiz this past Thursday in my Biblical Studies class—I had to recite all 66 book of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. Well, I am also happy to report that I recited them perfectly—that is to say, without stuttering or stammering—and I got all of ‘em right. I tell y’all: Sometimes I amaze even myself. And check this out: My instructor said that because I am such a natural, he would like to speak to my pastor personally and let him know that I should in fact be a Sunday School teacher on account of my dedication and heart… sounds like more affirmation, y’all!

And of course, there’s my Spanish class. Now, I’m not one to brag, but then again, I was always taught that hay una gran diferencia entre ser engreído y tener confianza. I want to state for the record that I went on Google Translate to say: “It ain’t braggin’ if you can back it up, Baby!” And of course, I went all around the world in 80 days, just to let y’all know that I’m doing muy excelente in Spanish I. By the way, if y’all don’t mind, I just wanna say: Yo estoy aquí para mostrar al mundo, así que trae la acción!

Not much to talk about my PRAXIS I Seminar class, other than I am learning how to take the teacher’s test. I actually have yet to talk to my instructor and ask if the C-BEST is an equivalent to the PRAXIS. I reckon I’ll look into that sometime this week. I tell y’all, though—the fact that I am getting a grade just for showing up, is a victory in and of itself.

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

Smooches,

Natasha

A Promise Made Is A Promise Kept

Good Morning, and Happy Beautiful Saturday!

I kept my promise to y’all—here is the first Saturday blog in two weeks. I would like to apologize for not updating y’all on the weekends, but I have a good reason: You see, I’ve been doing some kinda heavy-duty studying for these pop quizzes and midterms… and let’s not forget: I’ve got final exams coming up on next week. Y’all, I ain’t lyin’—final exams are literally just six days away!

I know some of you are thinking to yourselves: “Damn, Natasha… already?!”

Hey, I’m just as surprised as y’all! Nevertheless, I remain confident that I’m gonna ace these here classes, even the PRAXIS Seminar course. I’m probably gonna get a “B” out of that class, but I’m okay with it. I think y’all know my modus operandi by now: As long as my grade doesn’t fall under an 80 percent, I’m content with a solid “B.” Now, as far as my Foundations of Education and my Spanish class, I can safely say in great faith that I’ve got an “A+” in both those two classes.

And by the way: It ain’t being cocky if you can back it up!

Now, I’m checking out my schedule for the second module, and like everything else in life, there are some changes. For one thing, I don’t have a 6pm class for the upcoming module, so that’s a plus. I’m taking a lot of “intro” classes in the next two weeks; I’ve got Intro to Humanities at 10:30am, and I’ve got Intro to Social Sciences at 1pm. As for my 8am class, it simply says: “Fine Arts.” I’m kinda interested in that class… actually, I’ve gotta be honest here—I’m very excited about all three of my upcoming second module classes. I haven’t said this in a while, so let me just say it now:

I’m here to show the world, so bring it on!

Speaking of “bringing it on,” I had better get to studying right now; y’all already know that I don’t like to be left out of the loop—a sista’s gotsta get her study on. With that said, I’ll holla at y’all on Monday.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

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

Hot Damn, Y’all—It’s Wednesday!

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

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

And now, back to the lecture at hand.

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

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

Have Your Way, Lord—Have Your Way!

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

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

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Just Four Days Left, Y'all!



My ultimate goal, in just four days, Baby!

Happy Tuesday, Everybody!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha