Thank You So Much, Rust College!

Well, y’all—this is it!

First of all, I wish to point out that we have made it to Blog Post #700, and it’s quite apropos that this particular blog post would fall on my last day here in the South. In about two hours or so, I’ll be boarding a plane with my mom, dad, Cousin Becky, and Gramma Jewel, and we’ll all be heading back to Southern Cali. Y’all already know what this means to me—no more frequent flyer miles, no more college living, no more road trips to Memphis, and no more visits with my Great Aunt Reesie. It is officially over, and I am saddened by it.

Yesterday evening, I had one more get-together with Ruby, Azalea, Craig, and Theo, and we had a real good cryfest. All things considered, it’s hard to turn off four years of friendship! The five of us were all but joined at the hip, and we shared a lot of our time together. We had a lotta fun times, and we even had some not-so-fun times, but we got through them all together. Truth be told, y’all: Ruby, Azalea, Theo, and Craig are the very first best friends that I’ve ever had. They’re more than just my Rust College alum—they’re my family, and they always will be! So, suffice it to say that when we met up for one more round yesterday evening, a lot of tears were shed and a lot of hugs were given.

I told y’all that I’m fickle… and I’m also a big ol’ softie!

Well, I reckon I’d better close up this blog post and get ready to head to the Memphis Airport one mo’ ginn, but I just want to say that Mississippi and Tennessee were great hosts for this little ol’ city gal. I have learned so much in these past four years, and not just within the confines of Rust College either—I learned a lot about myself, and I learned a lot about life. I am definitely the richer for my Southern experience. It’s just a shame that it’s got to come to a close.

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 Clock is Really Ticking Away, Y'all!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, as y’all can see, today is Saturday, April 23, 2016, and y’all already know what that means—I am getting closer and closer to tomorrow. When I woke up this morning, I had a touch of a panic attack. Fortunately, I recognized it and immediately started practicing my breathing exercises, then Ruby gave me a glass of water and Azalea started fanning me like I had a hot flash or something… hahaha!

So, earlier this afternoon, I and my fellow Class of 2016 had our graduation rehearsal, and I gotta say that my peeps and I got some of our silliness out! The Dean of Students called our names by major, so I was somewhere towards the end. Would y’all believe that when Neo Theo’s name was called, he actually moonwalked halfway down the aisle and did the Michael Jackson yell and everything… hahaha! Then, when Ruby’s name was called, she sashayed down the aisle like a supermodel, blowing kisses and doing the queen’s wave. Azalea’s name was called next, but instead of reciting her poem (as per her plan from a few days ago), she started singing “This Is It” by Kenny Loggins.

And of course, when they got to the Elementary Education majors, Craig’s name was called first, and he ran down the aisle yelling “Yes! Yes! Yes!” like Daniel Bryan. And to save the best for last—little ol’ me! When I heard my name, I kept true to my word and imitated Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson—I thrusted a fist in the air while Theo, Ruby, Craig, and Azalea chanted “Vipress.” Most surprisingly, the Dean of Students was rather tolerant, but he did caution us to be serious come the actual graduation.

Suffice it to say, we had a successful graduation rehearsal… and for the record, I did ask if I could wear some plum shoes; I drove home the fact that my shoes would be dark. Well, the Dean said that he appreciated my efforts, but the shoe colors were etched in stone.

Well, at least I tried.

So, now I’m back in my room with Ruby and Azalea, but we’ve got the senior service of blessing and consecration at 6pm CST. Now, I have it on great authority that Brother Hawkins will be accompanying Mom, Dad, and Gramma Jewel this evening when we have the reception at Dr. Beckley’s house. Oh, snap—my peeps will get to meet the man that my uncles have affectionately nicknamed “Brother Hawk!” I keep tryin’ to tell Rust that they ain’t ready for my family—when we throws a party, we throws a party!

Okay, y’all—I gotta get ready for the consecration ceremony. I’ll try to holla at’cha if I can, 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

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

Results from My Cameo Appearance

Hi, Everybody!

Well, I might as well just gonna go ahead and say it: Yes, I had an absolute blast this past weekend!

It was a wonderful feeling to attend this year’s Rust Homecoming, if only for a little while. And suffice it to say, Ruby ‘nim were some kinda surprised when they saw me. Y’all should know by now how I operate… hahahaha! I just so happened to be standing right behind Ruby and Azalea during the parade on Saturday afternoon, and once I knew it was them, I simply shouted: “Roll Call, Y’all!” Well, Ruby turned around slowly, and with the look on her face, you would’ve thought she had seen a ghost.

“Oh my God—the Vipress has made a cameo appearance!” Ruby shouted.

And of course, that led to a big ol’ group hug with my girls… and yes, I also bumped into Neo Theo and Brotha Craig. And y’all already know that we took all kinds of pictures.

Given that I was on a very tight schedule (kinda like a turnaround), I didn’t stay up at Rust for too long, but Ruby’s parents did invite me, Great Aunt Reesie, and Auntie Gladys over to their house for dinner, and I kept my Rust family updated on everything that has been going on in my life since last we were together. Actually, I only talked about my internship and Gramma Jewel’s surprise birthday party.

Incidentally, I was gonna post this in my blog on yesterday, but I got sidetracked… that is to say, I got jetlagged and I needed to catch up on some good sleep from this past weekend. Nevertheless, I promised that I would deliver an update to y’all, and I kept my word.

Well, y’all—I reckon I’d better close up this here blog post, but I’ll holla at y’all later on this week; besides, it is to my understanding that someone very special is celebrating a birthday this Friday. Until then, y’all take care and be good.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

A Special Cameo Appearance This Weekend

Hi, Everybody!

So, as the title of today’s blog post suggests, I will be heading to Rust College this weekend to celebrate our Founders’ Day weekend. I’m tellin’ y’all right now—this was a miracle in and of itself! I am so grateful that I will be able to pay a surprise visit to my fellow Bearcats, if only for a little while… that’s right, y’all—Ruby, Theo, Craig, and Azalea have no idea that I’ll be out there this weekend, but I guarantee that they’re gonna be some kinda surprised when they see me. And the beauty in all of this—Great Aunt Reesie and Auntie Gladys will grace Rust College with their presence.

Ooh, I cannot wait until this weekend. I can see Ruby’s face so clear right now! Granted, this is only a cameo appearance, but I’m grateful nonetheless.

Now, I know that I’m gonna be cutting it close on Friday, but so be it. You see, I am still in the middle of my internship at Carter Elementary, and Mrs. Martin has granted me permission to take off on Friday. I don’t think it will shock any of you when I say that I declined Mrs. Martin’s offer, and with good reason: You see, I know that if I miss one day, I will have to make up for it. I know how important my internship is—it’s a good chunk of my grade. Fortunately, my plane arrives in Memphis at 9pm CST, and I’ll be staying with Auntie Gladys until I return home on Sunday.

Well, I would love to stay and chat some more, but I’ve got some packing to do, plus I gotta call Auntie Gladys and get our synchronization perfected. I’ll definitely holla at y’all when I come back home this Sunday, but until then, y’all take care and be good.


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Let My Senior Year Officially Begin!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, here it is—a beautiful Monday evening, and I’m still here in Southern Cali. If I sound a little sad, then that’s only because the inevitable has already taken place: My senior year has officially started at Rust College, and much like that song from the Verve, it really is a bittersweet symphony.

You would think that I would be happy to be back home, if only until the end of the year, but considering that today would be my first day back at Rust and I’m still here at homebase… I’m gonna tell y’all the truth: I’m so thrown off that it’s ridiculous. Heck, I was so thrown off that I actually stayed up until about two-thirty this morning! All I did was open my bedroom window and gaze at the night sky. I just know that there was a flight at LAX around that same time, just ready to take off—hell, I betcha anything that the pilot even stalled the flight for about ten minutes, just to give me a grace period… hahahaha!

But seriously, y’all—I am aware that I’ve got an internship to take care of whilst I’m back home, and I really am ready to make the best of it. I Just know that I’m gonna enjoy working alongside Mrs. Martin for the next three months.

And at the same time, I left my heart—as well as my peeps—back at Rust.

I think I mentioned it once or twice, but I hate that I missed the roll call today. Allow me to explain in greater detail: The “Roll Call” is when Ruby and I spot Craig, Theo, and Azalea in the line during registration day, and we just yell out: “Roll Call, Y’all!” After we get everybody’s attention (everybody in the group, that is), we all run up to each other and talk about what we did over the summer, then we split up for a temporary period of time, and then we hook back up later on the evening outside on the track.

It’s like I said the other day: If absence makes the heart grow fonder, then my heart is very, very fond of my fellow Bearcats. But mark my words, y’all—as soon as my internship is done, the second semester will begin, and I’ll be on the first plane smokin’, back to Bearcat Country.

Speaking of my peeps, I received the sweetest phone call from Ruby; she let me know that she moved into Wiff Hall this time, and she’s saving the other half of the room for when I return in January. She also let me know that Theo, Craig and Azalea send their best wishes, and they’re gonna do all they can to hold down the fort until January.

Awwwwwwww… I’ve got some wonderful friends!

Well, that’s gonna do it for today, but I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

My Girl Ruby Red

Hi, Everybody!

So, guess who I heard from today… and if you guessed that I heard from a fellow Rustite, then you’re absolutely right!

I’ve not long been home from work—it’s about a quarter past four in the afternoon (Southern Cali time). I’m in the middle of writing this blog post, and I see that I got an email from Ruby Jean Hudspeth. She’s letting me know that the Rust College upperclassmen have about a week and a half until registration starts. She also went on to tell me that classes begin on August 26, and she further states that “Bearcat Country ain’t the same without the California Vipress.”

I almost forgot about my unique nickname. I’ve got a feeling that when I graduate from Rust, they’re gonna write “California Vipress” where my government name should be… hahahaha!

All kidding aside, it’s always nice to hear from my girl… and yes, I will email her back, just as I soon I finish up this here blog post. I reckon I’ll also email the rest of the crew while I’m at it—I gotta keep in touch with the Neo One, Miss Azalea, and finally Brotha Craig.

For the record, it’s usually around this time where I am preparing to make my long-awaited return to Rust College. I guess old habits really do die hard, y’all—I was just about to call Auntie Gladys and let her known about my flight schedule, and I just now realized that: 1) I won’t be going back to Rust until the Spring 2016 semester, on account of my internship; and 2) Auntie Gladys is out here in Southern Cali!

But check this out: Why was I just about to call Great Aunt Donna, though? That’s also impossible because she too is out here in Southern Cali!

I’m gettin’ old, y’all… hahahahaha!

Well, let me go ahead and close up today’s blog post, but I shall return on tomorrow.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Thinking About My Peeps

Hi, Everybody!

 

I’m here chillin’ in the library, after hittin’ the pavement this morning—and just for the record, ain’t nothin’s biting yet.

 

Now, I’m not giving up—and I don’t want anyone to think that I’m complaining—but I will admit that I’m starting to get a little frustrated. All I’m asking is for a part-time job that will tide me over the summer, at least until it’s time for my internship this August. Heck, I’be satisfied if the job lasts until I go back to Rust in January. Let me just tell y’all the truth: I’ve grown sick and tired of sittin’ my ass at home all day! I need some stability in my life—I wanna be free!

 

And I’ve noticed that I feel so much better after having bared my soul. Maybe I just needed to vent.

 

It’s funny that I mentioned the word “vent,” because if I was back at Rust, I would vent my problems to my peeps. I know my girl Ruby would be a great listener—and even Theo would lend me his shoulder to lean on—but due to the fact that so many miles are in betwixt us, the best form of communication is via email.

 

It goes without saying, but yeah—I MISS MY PEEPS!!!

 

That’s all that I have for today. I’ll holla at y’all later.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

It Officially Begins!

Well, y’all—it’s finally upon us!

Today is Tuesday, April 28, 2015, and I am happy to announce that I am officially a graduating senior! As you are aware, Rust College had its 149^th Commencement this past Sunday, and for once, I was sitting in the auditorium/gym to witness the entire thing… well, for the first half hour, anyway. You see, this family came in late, and there wasn’t any available space in the overfill room, so Ruby, Theo, and I gave up our seats. At least I didn’t miss the entire ceremony, though. As usual, it was a beautiful sight to behold—that sea of royal blue robes, each graduate receiving their respective degrees from Dr. Beckley… and to think, around this time next year, that’s gonna be me!

 

In the meantime, though, I’ve gotta get through Summer School. Classes start tomorrow, and check this out, y’all: I’ve got one class to take—Principles of Early Childhood Education.

 

In all actuality, this is an elective that I have to take, but it’s a class in which I have found great interest. As a future kindergarten teacher, I believe that every child can learn outside of the classroom. Truth be told, I learned my alphabets and my numbers when I was eighteen months old (Mom and Dad didn’t waste any time with me). I guess it can be said that I was a gifted child, but I don’t believe it to be true, simply because I’m not that great in mathematics, but that’s neither here nor there.

 

Oh, by the way, Ruby and I are very fortunate again—we didn’t have to move out of Emma Elzy. However, when the 2015-16 school year officially begins, we will be in Wiff Hall. Of course, I won’t be around the Rust campus as much, what with my internship and all, but nevertheless, I will be a resident of Wiff Hall.

 

Well, y’all, I guess I’d better get going, but y’all will be hearing from me sometime tomorrow. Until then, take care and be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Gettin' Right Back On It, Tho!

Good Monday Evening, Everybody!



Well, here I am again—back in Bearcat Country, and I am officially ready to complete my junior year!



And yes, I am aware of the fact that I have posted a blog since my return to Rust, but remember: Classes haven’t started yet. Matter of fact, classes commence on tomorrow, so there is a good chance that you may hear from me either in the morning or the evening, depending on my last class.



Believe me when I tell y’all—it’s about to go down this year! I am so excited because, in four months’ time, not only will I have completed the second semester of the 2014-15 school year, but I will also be that much closer to my graduation. In the words of my godsister Lizzie: I am like, so totally excited! Some of you may not believe this (although the rest of you probably know me by now), but during my plane ride, I was actually working on some custom made invitations for my graduation. I have a list in my jacket pocket right now; it has the names of any and everybody that I’m inviting to my graduation. The first one on the list is: The Fam! That’s basically everybody in my family, from Gramma Jewel to Great Aunt Donna. I put five pink stars next to my mom and dad’s name, and I put five purple stars next to Gramma Jewel’s name. The lady next to me couldn’t help but ask (and I really didn’t mind her looking) if the stars symbolized anything. I smiled and told her that the stars represent that they wouldn’t miss my graduation for the world. Naturally, the woman thought that I was graduating this year, to which I told her that I had one more year. She looks at me and says: “My, my—we aren’t waiting around, are we?”



And that’s when I told her about my Grampa Clark’s legendary quote—and I tried to paraphrase it, but I had to tell her the real thing. She was quite amused, to say the least.



So, anyway, I’ve gotten registered, and I’ve also met up with the other two-thirds of the Tripod. Now, I’m up here in my nice warm cozy dorm room, with a cup of hot cocoa and marshmallows, and a homemade chicken sandwich with chips and a pickle. And of course, I called Mom and Dad around 9am CST to let them know that I made it safely—Auntie Gladys picked me up from the airport.



Well, y’all—that’s gonna do it for today, but hopefully I’ll be able to holla at y’all tomorrow. If not, then I’ll holla at y’all this weekend. Until then, y’all take care and keep a sista in your prayers.






Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

The Inevitable of It All

Happy Friday, Everyone!

 

Today’s blog post is gonna be short, sweet, and to the point:

 

The inevitable has come upon us again—in just two days, I will be return to Bearcat Country. There’s no sense in ignoring that big purple elephant in the room, and there’s no sense in fighting it. I’ve got some unfinished business at Rust College, and it will all be taken care of as soon as the first day of classes start.

 

Now, here’s the strangest thing: Despite the fact that I’m glad to be back home (albeit until this Monday), I’m actually glad that I’m returning to Rust. It’s not just the inevitable of it all, but I’m just looking at the bigger picture. You see, in about three months’ time, I will officially be a senior… let me rephrase that: I will officially be a graduating senior! Yes, y’all—there really is a difference. I’ve taken a look at my Rust Catalog, and I see that I am way ahead of schedule to graduate next year. Y’all already know that I’m excited… and I reckon I should start making plans for a graduation party.

 

And I never thought I’d ever say this (considering that I’m only twenty years old), but I guess it really was worth leaving Los Angeles a couple years ago!

 

With that said, I now close this blog post with a smile, and I will holla at y’all when I return to Rust.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Rust College... I'M HERE!!!

Hi, Everybody!

 

I tell y’all—this Bray Wyatt character from WWE is really an intriguing individual. I loved how he lights up his lantern and then he whispers the name of the city, and after announcing his arrival, he blows out the lantern. The thing that I find weird is that he relights the lantern just to head out to the ring, and yet, for some reason, it still works!

And yes, I guess you can say that Mr. Wyatt’s catchphrase helped inspire the title of today’s blog post. It certainly goes without saying, but I’m back up here at Rust after having one helluva spectacular summer vacation... and while I’m on the subject of my summer vacation, I just want to take this time out and express my love to my family for creating such a grandtastical family reunion. We truly had us some fun lo these past couple weeks. I reckon I’m gonna have to make a commemorative booklet or something, just to immortalize all the fun that we had.

Oh, and I wanna state for the record that Gramma Jewel’s childhood friend Ms. Millie is as cool as the other side of a pillow. I’m actually gonna have to interview her for a future blog post—that lady is so cool. I need to also mention that Uncle Ronnie had a childhood crush on Ms. Millie, and… well, some things just never change—Uncle Ronnie still has a touch of a crush on Ms. Millie!

But anyway, back to the lecture at hand: I am back up here at Rust College, and I am ready to start my junior year. Ruby and I actually moved in over the weekend… and I need to quickly mention that my mom and dad have finally met Mr. & Mrs. Hudspeth, and all four of ‘em instantly got on a first name basis. Y’all kow what this means, don’tcha—Ruby and I are officially sisters for life!

As far as my classes go, I’ve taken a look at my schedule, and I see that I’ve got some classes that I already know ain’t gonna be no cakewalk… and the improper grammar is highly merited in this case. Just in the first module alone, I’m taking Diagnosis and Treatment of Reading Disabilities, Early Literature Instructions Part II, and Measurement & Evaluation. Now, mind you: I said that these three courses are only for the first module, but I forgot to mention that class starts this Wednesday. I get a feeling that y’all ain’t gonna be hearing from me as much as before. As challenging as that may sound, I’m taking for the second module: Human Growth Development and Diversity, Literature in the Schools, and Praxis Seminar II.

Y’all, it ain’t lookin’ good—I’m requesting y’alls prayers immediately.

Well, I reckon it’s time to close up this blog post, but I’m serious—keep your girl lifted up in prayer, because these classes sound like they’re gonna need my undivided attention.

 

 

Lotsa Love,

Natasha