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

Results of Mrs. Martin's Dream Theme

Hi, Y’all!

 

Well, I’m back, and y’all have waited long enough, so let’s get right on down to the nitty gritty.

 

As you may remember from yesterday evening’s blog post, I talked about how Mrs. Martin came up with an idea for a “dream theme,” but she put me in charge of the whole assignment. Now, check this out: Usually, I’m full of ideas and brainstorms, but believe it or not, I was up until eleven o’clock last night, and my mind was absolutely blank—I mean, I ain’t have not nann one idea. I felt so ashamed of myself that I didn’t know what to do.

 

Well, it goes without saying, but the “Dream Theme” was a major success today!

 

After we said our morning prayer and had our greetings and salutations, Mrs. Martin let the kiddies know that I would be teaching for the entire day. As I walked up to the front of the classroom, the little kiddies gave me a sweet applause… and from out the corner of my eye, I saw some half sheets of blank green paper and a small box. Just like that, I received a miraculous idea! Instantly, I handed out the half sheets of paper and asked the little ones if they remembered what we talked about yesterday. When they all said yes, I instructed them to write down their names and what they wanted to be when they grew up, then put their paper in the box when they were done. After the last child placed his paper in the box, I let the kiddies know that we were going to pretend that I was a talk show host and Mrs. Martin would be the camera crew. I promised the little ones that I would interview each and every last one of them, even if we had to use the whole school day to do so.

 

As Mrs. Martin looked on, I pulled a name out of the box and called the chosen child up to the front so I could “interview” them on what they wanted to be when they grew up. All thirty-five darlings interviewed very well, but I gotta be a little partial right here—I got excited when I interviewed Max, mainly because I remember his answer about how he wanted to be rich… and incidentally, Max was the last child (save the best for last indeed). Well, Max explained that he wanted to be rich because his mom’s favorite song is “I Wanna Be Rich” by Calloway, and his mom sings the song so much that he made up in his mind to save all his money when he grew up, just so he can split it with his family.

 

Bless his little heart—I promise y’all that Max is gonna see to it that his dream comes true!

 

Well, with ten minutes left in the school day, my project was complete, and I turned the class back over to Mrs. Martin, who asked the little ones to give me another round of applause. I couldn’t help it—I started blushing, and then I did a bit of a curtsy. Afterwards, Mrs. Martin let the little ones know that their dreams would indeed come true, so long as they keep the faith and hold on.

 

After the dismissal bell rang, Mrs. Martin and I both wished the little ones well, and then she turned right to me and gave me a big hug for a job well done. I thanked Mrs. Martin for the compliment, but I also let her know that I literally thought of that idea at the eleventh hour. She looked at me and said, “But the bottom line is, Dearie, that you persevered to the very end, and that’s what being a real teacher is all about. I could tell that you didn’t have anything planned until you saw that stack of paper, but you played it off so well—you were quick on your feet and you didn’t miss a beat. Plus, you proved to yourself that you definitely have what it takes to be a kindergarten teacher. Kudos to you, my dear.”

 

Okay, y’all—do I really need any more affirmation and confirmation? I mean, it’s all but etched in stone… hahahaha! But seriously, that was really sweet of Mrs. Martin to say.

 

Until next time, y’all take care.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

It's Got To Be Real!

Today’s blog post has been a long time coming, y’all.

 

The subject of today’s blog post has been in my heart and on my mind ever since this past October. And yes, I am aware that the subject title sounds very familiar, in that it was inspired by the popular 70s song by one Cheryl Lynn. However, here’s a little bit of trivia for y’all: British songstress Lisa Stansfield has a song on her “Real Love” CD that shares the same title as Cheryl Lynn’s song. The only difference between both ladies’ songs revolves around the lyrics… and the lyrics from Miss Stansfield’s song struck me straight in the heart—I mean, I got chills up and down my spine when I heard those lyrics. Just check this out:

 

All my life, I keep on searching for that special thing.

How I’ve tried to always find a love and understanding,

To always see the light of day, and to know that I am living.

All my life, I won’t take if I’m not giving.

Only when the rain comes down,

Only when the lightning strike me, will I find the answer for myself.

  

Personally, the second verse that gives me shivers. Miss Stansfield basically says that she tries to see the good inside herself and does all she can to let her love shine through. I know what she’s talking about, because I know that I do what I can to let my light shine, just so the right guy will know where I am. I think I mentioned this once or twice, but since my time here at Rust, I have been told that I am a different breed of woman. I’ve even been told that most of the fellas are intimidated by me because I know my worth and I won’t settle for anything less than that which is beautiful. Matter of fact, the chorus of Miss Stansfield’s song talks about that very thing:

It’s got to be real—be the best, nothing less than wonderful.

It’s got to be real this time—what’s waiting there inside.

It’s got to be real—knowing love, know it can be powerful.

It’s got to be really love, so we can rise above.

 

And that’s my testimony—it’s got to be real or not at all. I’m not settling on just any old type of “love.” The love that I’m searching for has to come from the heart—it’s got to be real, nothing less than wonderful, because it’s that real love that withstands the test of time after everything else has come and gone. And that real love is out there looking for me… of course, he’s gonna have to go through my dad to get the keys to my heart, but other than that, that real love is out there.

In closing this blog post, y’all know that I had to post my brand-new leitmotif… for this year, anyway!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Kickin' Off Summer School

Hi, Everyone!

Well, it goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: I had me a great time in my classes today, and this is only the first day of Summer School 2014.

I think I mentioned in yesterday’s blog post that both of my classes are in the morning, which leaves my afternoons free. I take my Developmental Approach to Reading & Literacy class at 8am CST, and my Creative Expressions for Teachers class is at 10am CST. Just as I predicted yesterday, I love both of these classes, although I admit that I have an extra dash of favoritism for Creative Expressions. As a matter of fact, if I ever have to write a term paper in this class (and there’s a good chance of that happening), I can use my expertise as a Sunday School teacher for the Cradle Roll class at my church. I used some creative expressions to help the Cradle Roll class apply the Bible to their everyday life… and I just realized that I said “everyday life” in the same sentence as the Cradle Roll class, but hey—it still applies. Soon enough, those little ones are gonna grow up to be adults, and they’ll remember what I taught them lo those many, many moons… hahaha!

Well, y’all, I had better get going—I’ve already got a homework assignment for my 8am class. Tomorrow, we’re gonna have a class in which each of us will talk about an elementary school teacher who was a great influence in our lives. Y’all already know that I’ve chosen my former kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Ingrid Martin… and as a matter of fact, I’ve got to get in contact with her when I return to Cali. I’ll at least write her a letter for now, just to let her know that I’ve been thinking about her, you know.

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Vipress Is Back, Y'all!

Hi, Everyone!

Some of you may be wondering about the backstory behind the title of today’s blog post—well, allow me to explain.

Yesterday evening, I had a deep phone conversation with my Auntie Cherri, and I was telling her that fellow Rustite and aspiring teacher Craig Dixon asked me to be his Valentine. She asked me if I accepted, to which I affirmed that I did so, but rather reluctantly. Well, Auntie Cherri told me that I did the right thing by accepting Craig’s sweet little request. She said that by accepting Craig’s invitation to be his Valentine, I showed that I am allowing my emotional scars to heal. She also said something that I hope she puts in her upcoming book:

“Tasha, I’m gonna tell you just like I tell Vanessa—the most dangerous woman in the world is one who knows her worth.”

As soon as Auntie Cherri told me that, I got to thinking about my blog post from just this past Thursday. There’s a gospel song that talks about how you sometimes need to encourage yourself. Well, if y’all remember, I started to regain my confidence once I remembered that I am Natasha Renee Stewart—Mom’s little Smurfette, Dad’s little Honey Bee, Gramma Jewel’s little Bright Eyes, and one-third of the Tripod. I am also four feet eleven inches tall, with dark brown hair, gorgeous brown eyes, a beautiful smile that would make Mona Lisa a touch envious, and a figure that puts an hourglass to shame!

Okay, that may be overembellishing a little bit, and I may be tooting my own horn, but let’s face it: I know my worth as a woman, and I should never forget that. Besides, Auntie Cherri told me about a song from the late great Luther Vandross called “Too Far Down.” I looked that song up on YouTube this morning, and after listening to it, I feel so much better. To summarize the song, the message is simply this: It’s okay to be sad and it’s okay to cry, but don’t be so down in the dumps to where you’ve hit the point of no return.

Well, y’all—I’ll be damned before I get depressed and fall too far down. As long as I’ve got my family and friends, and of course with God on my side, I’ll make it.

I now close today’s blog post with the last few lines of that encouraging song by Luther Vandross:

Pick yourself up—if you’re lost, you’ll be found,

But if you don’t care, you’re just too far down.

I know you feel so left out, pushed around,

But nevertheless, don’t go too far down.

Y’all have a great day, and I’ll holla tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Inspirational & Motivational

Oh, wow—it is October 1, isn’t it?

Well, with that said: Happy Tuesday, Y’all!

So, yesterday evening in my Foundations of Education class, my professor gave us an assignment to think about one elementary school teacher that made a positive impact on our lives. Well, naturally this was an easy assignment for me, seeing as how I had received the sweetest inspirational letter from one Mrs. Ingrid Martin. Throughout the remainder of the class, our professor had us stand up and announce who we chose and why. Now, here’s the amazing part: Although I was listening attentively to my fellow classmates hype up their respective inspirational teachers, I was trying to put together my speech about Mrs. Martin—I had only written down that Mrs. Martin was the absolute bestest. Well, about seven classmates in, the professor called on the eighth person to come up… and that eighth person was yours truly.

Well, seeing as how I didn’t have a whole lot to go on, I just picked up my lackluster notes and the letter from Mrs. Martin, and I walked up to the front of the class. I first apologized for not being as prepared as I should have been, and the next thing I knew, the words started to flow perfectly. I simply talked about how my first day in kindergarten, I automatically grew to like Mrs. Martin because she had that genuine caring spirit. I began to talk about how Mrs. Martin was in the midst of celebrating her 25^th year of teaching kindergarten, and she celebrated her anniversary with us—I remember the chocolate cake and chocolate chip ice cream very well. Anyway, I concluded my speech with how Mrs. Martin and I still keep in touch, and I had the letter to prove it. I only read the closing remarks from Mrs. Martin’s letter, and once I was done with my impromptu speech, I received an unexpected ovation.

After class ended, Craig—my special admirer (y’all remember him)—walked me to my dorm and told me that I pulled off quite an amazing feat in class. “I like how you just started talking from your heart, considering that you really didn’t know what you were gonna say,” he stated. “You’re gonna be a great teacher, Natasha—and I mean that.”

I thanked Craig with a kiss on the cheek, and he simply grinned uncontrollably, squeezed my hand, and left.

So, yeah—I had a great day in class yesterday evening, but I guess it can be said that Craig had an excellent closing of his evening. By the way: I have yet to respond to his sweet little note that he gave me last week, but I’m not gonna leave him hangin’. Be it by letter or by face-to-face encounter, I’ll holla at him sometime this week.

Until tomorrow, y’all take care, and have a good rest-of-the-day.

Smooches,

Natasha

That Extra Encouragement from Mrs. Martin, Tho!

Happy Monday, Everyone!

I tell y’all—I feel so damn good right now because I just received a letter from one Mrs. Ingrid Martin!

I know that I’ve talked about her several times in a few of my blog posts—Mrs. Martin was my kindergarten teacher back home, and she was the absolute bestest! I think I told y’all that I wrote a letter to her a couple of weeks ago. Well, imagine my surprise when I read her reply this afternoon and I discovered that she is still teaching kindergarteners; as a matter of fact, this may be her last year teaching. But anyway, in her reply to me, she immediately and emphatically pointed out that she “could never forget little Natasha Renee.” She also said that she couldn’t take all the credit in being the absolute bestest on account of I and my fellow kindergarten classmates helped her to become the absolute bestest.

Mrs. Martin’s letter further stated that she had entered her 25^th year of teaching when I was in her class, and it was indeed a silver anniversary moment for her. I was also shocked to read that out of everyone in my kindergarten class, I was the only one who cared enough to write her and see how she was doing. The letter went on to say: “When I saw your name on the envelope, my heart leapt for joy—I was that excited! By the way, your other teachers are a little jealous because I’ve got a letter, but I told them to get over it… hahahahaha!”

Finally, Mrs. Martin closed her reply with these words:

“Natasha, I want you to know how proud I am—excuse me—how thrilled and overjoyed I am that you are following your dream of becoming a kindergarten teacher. I am especially proud to learn that you are academically climbing that ladder. Just remember this, Sweetheart: Dreams do come true, but in His Perfect Timing, and trust me when I tell you—His timing is always perfect. So, I close this letter by saying: Keep up the good work, and most of all, remember to trust in The Lord, because He’s got your back. Oh, and you can write and/call me anytime. Take care, and love you lots.”

Y’all, I am just teary-eyed right about now, and not just because I received a reply from Mrs. Martin, but mainly because she basically said that she’s one of my biggest supporters. Y’all already know what I’m gonna do—I’m gonna have to write her back… heck, I’ve got to write her back anyway on account of I want her to be there when I graduate from Rust.

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

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

My Desire to Teach

Hi, Everyone!

So, yesterday evening in my Foundations of Education class, I was given an assignment… and it should be no surprise that it was another paper to write. I wonder if Grampa Clark, Uncle Anthony, and Mr. D had to this much writing when they were in college… hahaha!

In any event, I am to write a five-page paper explaining why I desire to be a teacher, which grade I would like to teach, and what I plan to bring to the table—in other words, I am to describe a unique attribute that no other teacher has. Well, judging only by the successful results of this past summer when I taught the Cradle Roll class for a couple of Sundays, I would say that my most unique attribute is the fact that I am a big kid at heart, and it’s because of this attribute that allows me to connect with the little kiddies. I don’t think I mentioned this before, but you can ask my St. Matthew Baptist Church Family—every Sunday, both before and after church, those little Cradle Roll kiddies made it their business to flock to me, as though I was their version of Mother Goose. I swear, it is just the cutest thing! Some of the kiddies even call me “Miss Natasha,” which is so sweet. And as far as which grade I would like to teach… well, I’ve already made it perfectly clear that I would love to teach kindergarten. However, if I had a second preference, then I would choose to teach either First Grade or Second Grade.

And while it’s fresh on my mind, I’m gonna tell y’all why I chose to teach the little kiddies: Mrs. Ingrid Martin. I may have mentioned her once or twice, but Mrs. Martin was my kindergarten teacher some many moons ago. From what I understand, she is still teaching the little ones up at my old elementary school. I was hoping to catch an interview with her, seeing as how my paper is due next Monday—and now that she’s been crossing my mind as of late, I reckon I’ll go ahead and write her a letter at least. Truth be told: Mrs. Martin was the greatest kindergarten teacher that I ever had; she was sweet but strict, hard-hitting but soft spoken. And I may have mentioned once upon a time that her youngest daughter had graduated kindergarten with me. Speaking of which, Mrs. Martin was even more so strict on her daughter than she was everyone else—she didn’t believe in special treatment or nepotism! I know this all sounds strange, considering that we were kindergarteners, but yet and still, this was the makeup of Mrs. Martin’s character.

Well, y’all—I guess I had better get started on this here paper. Here’s what’s funny: I haven’t written anything down yet, but judging by the brainstorms and research, I have at least three and a half pages already! With that said, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow, but in the meantime, y’all take care and be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Don't Worry, Be Happy!

Hi, Everyone!

A couple of blog posts ago, I made mention that I haven’t been going to church every Sunday like I would if I was back home. Yes, I admit that my church attendance out here in the Bible Belt is spotty at best, and I am woman enough to admit that there is no valid excuse good enough, nor can I think of a real good reason for missing as much as I have. In light of this “atrociousness,” I do make up for it as best as possible by reading a couple of Bible verses and listening to the gospel station for an hour or so.

However, I had a breakthrough on yesterday—I actually went to church, and I enjoyed the sermon immensely!

The sermon came from Matthew 6:25-34, and the subject was: “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” The pastor went on to give a disclaimer that if the title sounded familiar, then it’s only because he got the title from a singer named Bobby McFerrin—heck, the pastor even went on to recite the lyrics to the song, and once he did that, I thought about my Uncle Ronnie and how, even to this very day, he sings that song.

Well, in this scripture, Jesus Christ is telling the multitudes not to worry about anything. He gives two examples in the form of the lilies of the field and the fowls in the air; they don’t have to work for food or shelter, and The Lord provides for them. The scripture also teaches that The Lord cares more for His children than the birds and the lilies. It was then that I thought about that song that says: “His Eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.”

By the way, I hadn’t really paid any attention to it until I read for myself, but Jesus tells us three times in this particular scripture not to worry—He tells us in verses 25, 31, and 34. It was also in church yesterday that I learned that the phrase “take no thought” really means “do not worry.” For a long time, I took those words literally, and only after learning the true meaning did I feel a little embarrassed. However, my embarrassment quickly turned into relief, especially when I realized that I had truly learned something. I almost shouted: “Yay, Me!” Hahaha!

Well, y’all, that’s all the news I’ve got for you today, but you can rest assured that I’ll have some more for you on tomorrow. Until then, y’all take it easy, and remember: Don’t worry—be happy!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

60 Years of Friendship Celebrated

Hey, Everybody!

Today’s blog post is dedicated to two special ladies in my family—one of whom is my grandmother, and the other of whom is her fellow Rust College alumna and my honorary auntie.

Yes, I am referring to my Gramma Jewel and my Auntie Gladys.

It was on September 4, 1953 that these two ladies became the best of friends, having met on the campus of Rust College three weeks prior to their friendship and sisterhood becoming official. Yes, y’all—Gramma Jewel and Auntie Gladys have been best friends for 60 years!

I talked to Auntie Gladys last night after my 6pm class, and she told me how she had just spoken with Gramma Jewel earlier in the day. The first thing Auntie Gladys said to me was: “I can’t believe that I’ve known your grandmother for 60 years—that damn near our whole lives—but then again, someone had to be your grandmother’s best friend because she was lookin’ so lonely and pitiful… I’m just sayin’!”

Obviously Gramma Jewel and Auntie Gladys have been poking fun at each other for years, but that’s the mark of a good strong true friendship. If you can’t poke fun at each other, then you’re just mere acquaintances—and that might explain why Ruby and I get along so well… hahaha!

Here it is, 60 years later, and we’re celebrating a friendship that has truly withstood the test of time. All I have to say is: Congratulations to Gramma Jewel and Auntie Gladys for reaching such a pivotal milestone in their lives. I guess that old saying still rings true: In this life, you have more acquaintances than you do friends. Well, there’s no doubt that Gramma Jewel and Auntie Gladys have not only epitomized but also redefined the meaning of true friendship. Heck, I have reason to believe that they were the inspiration behind the term “BFF.”

And with that said, I would like to dedicate this song to their friendship.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Looking Into the Psalms

Hi, Everyone!

So, per the directive and instructions of my Biblical Studies instructor, I have been working on writing about a particular number in the book of Psalms. The only caveat is that I cannot use Psalm 23; according to my instructor, everybody and their mama recites that particular psalm so much that the whole world knows it by heart. Well, last night, I was led to read Psalm 125. The first verse says: “They that trust in The Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abideth forever.”

Now, as I meditated on that very first verse alone, I had to ask the proverbial question: “What does it mean to trust in The Lord?” In asking that question, a good example was brought to my attention: Here I am, a bright-eyed native Los Angeleno who is currently—and temporarily—residing in Holly Springs, Mississippi. With the exception of an extended family in Memphis and Nashville, I do not know anyone out here within close proximity of me. Well, I was then taken back to my very first night here at Rust—just last year, if you will. I was in my dorm room all by myself, crying something serious. I may have mentioned once or twice that I was some kinda homesick, but as heartbroken as I was, the only thing I could do was drop to my knees and start praying. I didn’t really say much in my prayer, either; all I said was: “Lord, I’m scared.”

And of course, the next morning, I woke up to a brand-new day, although my eyes were some kinda swollen from crying. Nevertheless, that one simple prayer to God produced big results. Not only did God help me through my first year away from home, but He also blessed me with a brand-new family within close range—the Hudspeths.

By the way: I did in fact use this example in my paper. I also went the distance and provided other Bible verses to coincide with Psalm 125. For instance, Proverbs 3:5 reminds us to fully trust in The Lord and not our own understanding… oh, yeah—I reads my Bible, y’all! I may not go to church every Sunday while I’m out here in the Bible Belt (yeah, I admit it), but I do know that I do reads my Bible, Baby! Hahahaha!

Oh, well—it’s time to close this blog and get ready for my 6pm class. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Heavenly Motivation

Thanks for the endorsement, Grampa Clark!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Sweet Gift from My Cradle Roll Class

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

Hi, Everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, y’all be good.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

I Truly Am Born To Teach, Y'all!

Happy Sunday Afternoon, Y’all!

Y’all already know the dilly-o: I just got home from church with my mom and dad, and as usual, it was quite an eventful day.

Before I start talking, I want to make an important public service announcement: In just this past month, I’ve noticed that I’ve been paying a great deal of attention to the sermons preached at church. This time, we had a guest minister give a lesson on how Jesus commanded Simon Peter to walk on the water. The guest minister said that Simon Peter didn’t have any problems until he took his eyes off of Jesus and focused on the wind and the waves. From what I understood the guest minister to say, life will always try and distract us with its many circumstances, but as long as we keep focus on Jesus Christ, we will not sink into our problems. I explained this to my mom and dad, and they told me that I was pretty much on the money. My mom then took it one step further and says to me: “So, you do have other interests than just that Ray Hernandez fella!”

That was messed up, Mom—funny, but messed up!

And of course, y’all want to know the results of my morning with the Cradle Roll class. Well, please forgive me if it sounds like I’m bragging, but I brought it this morning in Sunday School. I taught the Cradle Roll class about Jonah and his disobedience. I taught the Cradle Roll that when you disobey God, you can expect some serious “ramifercussions.” That’s a cross between ramifications and repercussions, y’all! But anyway, the Cradle Roll class understood my lesson, so much so, that they gave the lesson review. I tell y’all, I was so proud of my little babies—and you know something, they even used my made-up word; they said: “Our teacher taught us that when you disobey God, you suffer serious ramifercussions!”

It was so funny, yet so cute—and yes, I am definitely meant to be a kindergarten teacher!

Well, y’all—that’s gonna do it for today. I’m gonna get a bit of a head start on a lesson for next Sunday. Just remember, a real teacher comes fully prepared. I would quote my Grampa Clark, but seeing as how it’s Sunday, I’m gonna refrain from using his quote until midnight tonight… hahaha! But seriously, I shall holla at y’all on tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care, and have a good rest-of-the-day.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Happy #56, Mr. D!

Hi, Everyone!

First thing’s first: I want to wish a very special Happy 56th Birthday to my goduncle, my inspiration, and my favorite Minnesotan, Bret George Douglas—a.k.a. “Mr. D.”

You know what, I’m so excited for Mr. D and his 56th birthday—and he’s been on my mind all day today—that I’m just gonna dedicate today’s blog to him.

I’ve already told y’all that Mr. D is my Gramma Jewel’s next door neighbor of almost 30 years, which explains the tight familial bond betwixt us, but what I never told y’all is that Mr. D is a staunch, loyal, and dedicated patriarch. He is crazy about his wife Susie (Mrs. D, if you will) and his three children Howie, Lizzie, and Nikki.  Mr. D knew that he wanted to be a teacher, with the added incentive being a family birthright of sorts; his grandfather was a teacher, as was his mother.

Mr. D has taught kindergarteners at Wiley L. Sapp Elementary School ever since September 1993, having succeeded my Grampa Clark. Of course, I already told y’all that my Grampa Clark was very instrumental in helping Mr. D realize his dream. Incidentally, Mr. D had one other dream; he wanted to retire after Nikki, his youngest child, graduated from college. However, after several little children vocally declared that they had “the bestest Kindie-Garden teacher in the whole wide world,” Mr. D changed his mind and decided to teach kindergarteners for a little while longer.

Seeing as how today is Mr. D’s special day, I have a very special surprise for him. It’s no secret to family and close friends that Mr. D is a huge fan of Michael Bolton, so with that said, I’ve taken the liberty of singing a couple of verses to a song that I’m sure Mr. D knows all too well.

When love puts you through the fire, when love puts you to the test,

Nothing cures a broken heart like time, love, and tenderness.

Do you think your world is over? Well, just remember this:
Nothing heals a broken heart like time, love, and tenderness.

Once again: Happy 56^th Birthday, Mr. D—I know you’re gonna celebrate it well, and I already know that God has blessed you, so I’ll just say: Love Ya Lots!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Words of Wisdom from Auntie Gladys, Tho!

Hi, Everyone!

So, Auntie Gladys and I just had a hearty breakfast—blueberry pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash browns, fruit salad, and scrambled eggs with shredded cheese. I’m pretty full right now, yet I keep sneaking in and getting another piece of cantaloupe or honeydew melon… hahaha!

By the way, Auntie Gladys is a hoot and a half. She’s been entertaining me with stories from her college days, and almost all of her stories involve some kind of adventure with my Gramma Jewel. I believe I mentioned this once upon a time, but Gramma Jewel and Auntie Gladys were roommates in their freshman year at Rust—and that was in 1953. She was telling me a story last night about how she and Gramma Jewel had this weekly track and field competition. Here’s how it went down: They both claimed to be the fastest runner of ‘em all, so they decided to have a race. The winner would have bragging rights, and the loser would pay for the other’s lunch. Auntie Gladys said that more often than not, the races would end in a tie, so they would race again. If the second race ended in a tie, they would race again until someone fell out… and Auntie Gladys said that there was one particular time where Gramma Jewel said: “The hell with this—I forfeit, now let’s go to lunch!”

That does sound a lot like Gramma Jewel, especially when she’s had enough… hahahaha!

And I just noticed something amazing: Here we are, about 60 years later, and I have a roommate who I consider to be my best friend… y’all already know that I’m talking about my girl Ruby Red (that’s Ruby’s nickname). And would you believe that Auntie Gladys pointed that out? As a matter of fact, her exact words were: “Tasha-Honey, you betta hold on to Ruby, and don’t let go of Theo, either. When y’all came over for dinner a couple Saturdays ago, I could tell that y’all would be as tight as superglue and titanium steel. Trust me when I tell ya, Tasha—after y’all graduate from Rust in a couple years, y’all gon’ redefine the phrase ‘best friends forever.’ Watch what I tell ya!”

 

You know, I was always taught to listen to my elders, in particular those who are willing to share their wisdom. Well, much like my Gramma Jewel, my Auntie Gladys has such wisdom in her words. She ain’t 77 years old for nothin’; she’s seen it, lived it, and done it.

I’m thinking now—when I get back to the campus, I’m gonna challenge Ruby to a race… hahahaha!

Anyway, I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow. Take care!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha