A Sweet Homage to Grampa Clark

Hi, Everybody!

So, as y’all are probably aware by now, August 13 s a very special day in my family… matter of fact, as far as my family is concerned, August 13 may as well be a national holiday.

You see, it was on this very day, eighty-one years ago, that my legendary grandfather Clark Kenneth Jones was born.

As a tribute to my Grampa Clark, I decided to do something different this year. It’s no secret that My Grampa Clark was a big fan of Luther Vandross. Heck, I know for a fact that Grampa Clark had his own personal Top Ten list of favorite Luther songs… and then again,  I have my own Top Ten Luther list!

Having said that, I will close out today’s blog post by wishing a Happy Heavenly #81 to my Grampa Clark, and by playing his all-time favorite Luther hit: “Power of Love/Love Power.”

I love you, Grampa Clark!

 

 

 

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

In Loving Memory of Rowdy Roddy Piper

Hi, Everyone!

I'm getting ready for church, but I had to pause for a moment and deliver some bittersweet news.

Today’s blog post is a special tribute to the legendary WWE Hall of Famer Roderick George Toombs, whom we in the wrestling world affectionately knew and loved as… ROWDY RODDY PIPER!!!

For those of you who don’t know, the lovable Hot Rod passed away just three days ago at the young age of 61 years old. He was truly one of the greatest legends in the business—he was both loved and hated in the professional world, and he knew how to draw in a crowd.

The following are quotes from the one and only Hot Rod:

·         “I’ve come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass, and I’m all out of bubblegum!”

·         “Just when you think you’ve got the answers, I changed the questions!”

·         “I was here [in the WWE] when WrestleMania didn’t have a number. I was pissin’ Vince McMahon off when the red on your neck was just diaper rash, Buddy!” (to Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 21)

·         “Hi, there. I started WrestleMania. I’m the reason Hogan’s got no hair—I pulled it all out!”

·         “I don’t think so—Roddy don’t play that!”

·          “I scare Flair!”

·         “You don’t throw rocks at a man with a machine gun!”

·         “Sooner or later, everybody pays the Piper!”

·         “I don’t need to know how tough I am, to know how tough I am!”

 

Just for the record, I personally love that quote about him kicking ass and chewing bubblegum... hahahaha!

Thanks for the memories, Hot Rod! We love you!


Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Ode to Momillennium

Happy Saturday, Everybody!

Seeing as how tomorrow is Mother’s Day, I thought I would dedicate this very special blog post to my wonderful mother, Danielle Renee Stewart.

 

Delightfully witty and beautiful—and I should know because I look just like her!

Amazingly amusing

Never has a bad day, although she has admitted that some days are better than others

Intelligently intellectual

Elegant in everything she does

Lovely personality

Loved by her family and friends

Eloquent with her speech, even when she’s upset

 

Remarkably ravishing, according to my dad, anyway!

Each second is a blessing to her

Not a day goes by that I don’t see her smiling

Every single member of our family has a very special place in her heart

Elegant in everything she does (it’s worth repeating again)

 

Such a sweetheart of a woman, and that is the stone cold truth!

Tiny in stature, but very tough

Equally as popular as my Gramma Jewel

Wonderfully witty

Alluringly lovely—again, according to my dad!

Ready to make someone feel special

Thankful that God chose her to be my mom

 

Happy Mother’s Day, Momillennium—I Love You!

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

 

In Celebration of Moms Everywhere, Especially Mine!

Hi, Everyone!

Seeing as how Mother’s Day 2014 is upon us, I thought I would use today’s blog post to celebrate all moms out there—especially mine!

Remember that sweet little lady in your neighborhood? She lived next door to you, three houses down from you, or maybe even across the street from you. Her name may have been Rosie, Thelma, Vivian, Edna, Lynn, Jo Ann, or Hannah, but no child dared to call her by her first name unless they “put a handler on it.”

She was not only respectful, but she was also respected, by young folks, old folks, and everyone else in between. She was sweet as the pies she was known to bake, yet just as strict when the situation called for it. She kept you company for hours on end—a ten minute visit wound up lasting two hours, but it didn’t matter because she was always a great company-keeper. If she could help out in any way possible, she would do so out of the goodness of her heart. If she didn’t have it, then she would direct you to the one who did.

Of her many characteristics, she was very, very humble. She never boasted about what she could do for others, nor did announce that she was a Christian—you knew that she was a Christian on account of her walk matched her talk. She was the kind of woman who made you feel welcomed when she invited you in her home, and regardless of whether you were hungry or not, she would take you in the kitchen and “fix you a little something to eat.” Whether it was a hamburger or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, she could throw down in that kitchen. And Lord have mercy—you could literally taste the love in all of her desserts.

Whether or not she had children of her own, she adopted full grown adults as her sons and daughters, and she looked at their children as her nieces, nephews, or grandchildren. If she liked you, she called you “Baby” or “Sweetheart.” Sometimes she spoke in third person, and when she did, you knew that she was serious. More often than not, she mispronounced words, but she still made perfect sense. She listened with an attentive ear and didn’t give any advice unless she felt it was warranted. In giving advice, she would let you know about the goodness of The Lord, and would encourage (or remind) you to “put all yo trust in Him.” She never judged you for your wrongdoing, but she cared enough to tell you when you were wrong. She was Mom’s best friend and confidante; they talked for hours on end, either on the phone or on the porch. As corny as this sounds, little babies and puppy dogs just adored her. She wasn’t ashamed of her age, nor did she mind growing old, “so long as I do it gracefully.”

And on that note, I would like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to my mom, my aunts, my grandmother, and all of the honorary moms in my life. I love you truly.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

An Ultimate Tribute

Happy Friday, Everyone!

Today’s blog post is a rather bittersweet one, as it is dedicated to the memory of a wrestling legend.

Jim Hellwig—best known to the wrestling world as the Ultimate Warrior—was a former WWE Champion and a former WWE Intercontinental Champion. His matches with the likes of Hulk Hogan, Randy “Macho Man” Savage, Ravishing Rick Rude, and Million Dollar Man are legendary. The Ultimate Warrior reached another pinnacle of immortality when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame just last Saturday. He graced us with his presence at WrestleMania 30, and followed that up with a heartfelt speech the next night on Monday Night Raw.

And then, on Tuesday, April 8, 2014, the wrestling world was turned upside down when the following headline broke out: “Ultimate Warrior Has Passed Away.”

James 4:14 reminds us that our lives are but a vapor, here one minute and gone the next. That scripture came to mind when Ultimate Warrior literally gave his final speech to wrestling fans:

“Every man’s heart, one day, beats its final beat. His lungs breathe their final breath. And if what that man did in his life makes the blood pulse through the body of others and makes them believe deeper in something larger than life, then his essence, his spirit, will be immortalized by the storytellers, by the loyalty, by the memory of those who honor him and, and make whatever that man did live forever.”

Looking back on the events of this week, especially in hindsight, I can’t help but wonder if Ultimate Warrior had a feeling that his time was winding down. No doubt that his sudden passing sparked a constant reminder that life is both precious and short, yet there’s a part of me that believes the weekend of nostalgia was designed for Ultimate Warrior to show his love and appreciation to us, his fans. Those who grew up watching him as a child obviously feel a certain loss—Warrior was considered a childhood hero to many—but like the Warrior said in his last speech, his spirit will continue to live on in those who loved him.

In closing, I would like to say one final thing…

THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES, WARRIOR—WE LOVE YOU!!!

Recognizing the 108th Birthday of An Icon

Hi, Everyone!

Today’s blog post is very special, because it was on the day that my great grandmother, Lynn Agnes Coleman, was born. If she were alive today, she would be 108 years old.

I think I mentioned in several past blog posts that everytime my Great Gramma Lynn’s birthday rolled around, she would say: “It never ceases to amaze me how a smart, educated woman like myself would be born on a day that is purely designated for fools!” I’ve even talked about how she was a pioneer in my family. The legacy of continuing education began with Great Gramma Lynn. Oh, sure—there were other women who broke barriers back in the day, but it does my heart proud to know that I am a descendant of a woman who not only broke barriers, but also paved the way for everyone in my family to continue our education and be the best that we could be. It also does my heart good and well to know that the Rust College legacy and lineage began with my Great Gramma Lynn.

I could go on and on about the precious legacy of my great grandmother, but I’d much rather let you read all about her in a blog that I posted a couple months ago, simply entitled “The Legacy of Lynn Agnes Coleman.” Oh, but one thing that I do need to mention: Great Gramma Lynn’s favorite color was purple, and it makes so much sense, considering that my favorite color is lavender.

So, I guess there was a hidden agenda as to why I chose the purple flower for today’s blog post—either that, or Great Gramma Lynn’s spirit is speaking through me.

Smooches,

Natasha

Happy Birthday, Auntie Brenda!

Hi, Everyone!

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

Bright on so many levels… and beautiful, too!

Radiant and glamorous with it.

Easy-going and gentle-hearted.

Never seen without her precious smile.

Delightfully dedicated to delivering tender-loving care to all she meets.

Always passionate about making sure her littlest patients are well taken care of.

Happy 47^th Birthday to my fantabulous auntie—and a damn good pediatric nurse to boot (please excuse my language… LOL).

Love you lots, Auntie Brenda. May The Good Lord continue to bless and keep you on this day, forever, and always.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Congratulations, Paul Bearer!

Hi, Everyone!

Y’all ain’t gonna believe this, but Rust College is workin’ a sista! Therefore, today’s blog post is gonna be a short one. It’s amazing that I managed to somehow carve out some time out—and rightfully so. After all, today’s blog post is dedicated to a guy who did so much in the wrestling business, yet was taken away from us too soon.

It was exactly one year ago today that we bid farewell to one Mr. William Alvin Moody, who passed away at just 58 years old. Everyone in the wrestling world knew Mr. Moody better as the legendary Paul Bearer. With his ghostly facial expressions and his over-the-top excitement in his voice, Paul Bearer is most definitely a household name… OOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH, YYEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

Here it is a year later, and it was just brought to my attention that Mr. Moody will be inducted into this year’s WWE Hall of Fame.

Though it is not yet known who will induct him (I hope Kane and Undertaker both do the honors), I must say that Mr. Moody is truly deserving of such an accolade. Although I know him better as Paul Bearer, I am aware of his Percy Pringle III persona, thanks in part to YouTube and other wrestling historians. My favorite Paul Bearer memory would have to be the time that he returned to the WWE in the year 2000, to accompany Kane’s triumphant return.

Congratulations, Mr. Moody—you have officially been immortalized in the annals of professional wrestling… OOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH, YYEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

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

In Loving Memory of Russell "The Professor" Johnson

Happy Saturday, Everyone!

As you can see, today’s blog post is dedicated to the loving memory of Russell David Johnson, whom we all came to know and love as Dr. Roy Hinkley—a.k.a. the professor from Gilligan’s Island.

Mr. Johnson was 89 years old when he passed away in his sleep this past Thursday at his home in Bainbridge Island, Washington. When word got out about his passing the other day, I immediately went to Google so I could find a decent picture of Mr. Johnson portraying the lovable professor… and this was the best picture I could find! The reason why I don’t particularly care for this picture is because of the episode itself. You see, Professor Hinkley was trying to convince his fellow castaways that voodoo was nothing more than silly superstition, and while he was explaining this, he wound up being hypnotized by a voodoo priest.

Ironic, ain’t it? Well, here’s some more irony for you: I actually love that episode!

My other favorite episode is where Mr. & Mrs. Howell explain to Professor Hinkley that Gilligan and Skipper somehow found themselves pasted to the S.S. Minnow, thanks in part to some glue that Gilligan had made. Well, Professor Hinkley explains to the Howells that the glue is permanent and there is nothing on the island that can dissolve it. Professor Hinkley then goes on to say: “Do you what that would take? It would take a polyester derivative of an organic hydroxide molecule.” Well, upon hearing this, Mrs. Howell looks away in disgust, while Mr. Howell scolds Professor Hinkley: “Watch your language! You’re in the presence of a lady!”

The whole scene is funny to me, all things considered—and check this out: Professor Hinkley actually apologizes for his “language” (such as the case was)… hahahaha!

And speaking of his language, it was reported that Mr. Johnson requested that the scientific jargon and intellectual lingo be legitimate in order to play the role of such a knowledgeable character. Now, that is what I call true passion for developing one’s character.

Now, I am aware that Mr. Johnson was in various movies and dramas, and even some westerns; however, he will forever in my heart be known as Professor Hinkley. I surely hope he’s having fun up there with Gilligan, the Skipper, too, and the millionaire and his wife.

Thanks for the knowledge, Professor Hinkley—and thank you for your great acting skills, Mr. Johnson!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Get Ready, L.A.!

Hi, Everyone!

We are officially one week away until I make my somewhat anticipated return to the Golden State—more specifically, the City of Angels.

Ha-ha-ha-ha! Did y’all notice that I said it was a “somewhat anticipated” return to Southern Cali? Well, I don’t mean to downplay it, but I’m just being realistic here. Think about it, y’all: I’ll be accumulating a whole lot of frequent flyer miles for the next two and a half years, what with the traveling from L.A. to Memphis, and we all know that all of the fanfare has all but died down from the last time I came home. That’s not to say that my family won’t be ecstatic that I’m home—I’m merely stating that I know when my fifteen minutes of fame have run out.

Yet and still, it’s gonna be great to come home to familiar surroundings.

One of the reasons why I’m excited to go home (apart from the absolutely obvious) is centered around the posthumous induction of my Grampa Clark into the Sapp Elementary Hall of Fame. I have yet to talk to my Uncle Anthony about his acceptance speech, though; after all, he will be accepting the award on Grampa Clark’s behalf. I already know that Uncle Anthony’s gonna do a great job… and I’m not saying that just because he’s my uncle—it’s the stone cold truth, and that’s the bottom line because I said so.

By the way, I was up until at least a little after one o’clock this morning (Mississippi time) putting together the finishing touches to my Intro to Social Sciences final exam paper. When I finished it all, I had typed up seven and a half pages, and this is not counting the cover page and the reference page… oh, I was workin’ like a boss, tho! Now, I’m gonna start working on my Intro to Humanities final exam. I hadn’t come up with a topic for my favorite literary piece as of yet, but just in case I don’t, I’m grateful that I have two choices for my favorite work of art, as well as my favorite musical piece (The Blue Danube).

Having said that, y’all know what time it is—time for me to hang it up and call it a day. Before I do so, I would like to take this time to make a special announcement: On behalf of my entire family, we would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of former South African president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who passed away yesterday afternoon at the age of 95 years old. He was truly a legend in our own time, and an extraordinary human being. He will be truly missed, but his legacy will continue to live on in our hearts.

I’ll be talking to y’all tomorrow. Take care and take it light.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Remembering Marcia Wallace

Thanks for entertaining us, Ms. Wallace!

Good Monday Afternoon, Everybody!

Before I begin today’s blog post, I want to take this time out to acknowledge the sudden passing of actress Marcia Wallace.

This past Saturday, October 26, 2013, Ms. Wallace passed away at the age of 70 years old. While my Gramma Jewel may remember her as the witty secretary on The Bob Newhart Show back in the day, I remember her as the voice of Edna Krabappel on The Simpsons. Truth be told, y’all—Mrs. Krabappel was my favorite character, probably more so because she was a teacher. In hindsight, I can see clearly that Ms. Wallace truly brought Mrs. Krabappel to life. I’m pretty sure that the producers of The Simpsons will do some kinda of tribute to the memory of Ms. Wallace, and perhaps even retire her Mrs. Krabappel character, but whatever they do, I will most definitely come back to watch that particular episode.

Having said my piece, there’s only one thing left to say: Thanks for the memories, Ms. Wallace!

Well, y’all—ain’t much to talk about today. It’s another day in the life of a Rustite, and all is well. Of course, there’s still the mystery of my secret admirer, but since I don’t have any new clues as to who he is, I’ve given it a rest and decided to go on with my life, per se. Besides, I can’t let anything distract me from this project in my Fine Arts class. Check this out: I’ve got to write a two-page critique of a painting or some type of artwork—I’ve gotta explain its strengths, weaknesses, and all that good stuff. This is gonna be a challenge for sure, because I don’t know how to critique anything, and what’s so kiddin’ about it, I cringe at the word “critique” on account of it sounds too much like the word “critic.” Fortunately, the assignment is due this Friday, so I’ll have to find some type of artwork that I truly love.

Y’all be sure to say a prayer for your girl—this assignment sounds like it’s gonna be a toughie!

Well, it looks like I’m gonna have to close this post so I can get started on my Fine Arts project, but I’ll definitely be talkin’ to y’all tomorrow. Until then, y’all take care, and have a good rest-of-the-day.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Freestyle/Flashback Friday: Remembering Eight Simple Rules

Happy Friday, Everybody!

Uh-oh… did I say Friday? Well, y’all know what that means—it’s time for Freestyle Friday. This time, however, I’m gonna change it to Flashback Friday.

This past Tuesday, I dedicated a blog post to the memory of one of the greatest actors of all time, John Ritter. I had already know about his work as Jack Tripper from Three’s Company, and his excellent voice work as Clifford, the Big Red Dog; however, it was his role as Paul Hennessy on the very first season of Eight Simple Rules that truly won me over.

I clearly remember one of the earlier episodes (obviously from Season One) in which the Paul Hennessy character had to drop some deep knowledge. Here was the scene: Mr. Hennessy’s eldest daughter Bridgette (played by Kaley Cuoco) was going out on a date, and the gentleman honked the horn to let her know that he had arrived. Well, Mr. Hennessy wouldn’t let Bridgette so much as go to the door, much less leave; instead he let the boy sweat it out. Eventually, the boy got out of his car and rang the doorbell, to which Mr. Hennessy opened the door and said to the boy: “The next time you drive up to my house and honk your horn, you had better be delivering a pizza or a package because you’re sure as hell not picking up anything here!”

I remember laughing so hard at that statement, but my own dad didn’t help matters when he added his two cents. My dad was all like: “Damn right! Who the hell he think he is, honkin’ horns? Go ‘head on, Paul—teach that boy!”

John Ritter made me believe that he was Paul Hennessy—the look, the style, and even the mannerisms. After the success of the first season, I was definitely looking forward to seeing the Paul Hennessy character drop some more knowledge in the second season, but alas, that was not to be. Granted, ABC Television played the first three episodes of Season Two in which Mr. Ritter was a part, but afterwards the show took a huge turn and focused on the family trying to cope with the loss of their lovable patriarch. The surviving cast members did a damn good job in having life imitate art, and try as they might, they just couldn’t do it without Mr. Ritter and his unique gift. I give them an A+ for continuing the show, but even I knew that it was suffering without the patriarch. Nevertheless, I want to give a shout-out to Katey Sagal, Kaley Cuoco, Amy Davidson, Martin Spanjers, David Spade, and James Garner for a job well done.

Okay, y’all—since the weekend is officially upon us, I had best get going. Besides, it’s been a while since I’ve kicked it with my homies Ruby Red and Neo Theo. We’ve been talking about wither a road trip to Memphis or another movie night in the Emma Elzy lobby. Incidentally, both Ruby and Theo have been talking about my summer home movie, and they want to see it one mo’ ginn. To be honest, I had forgotten all about that home movie up until Theo brought it up… okay, I guess we can watch it again!

Until next time, y’all take care—Smooches!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

In Loving Memory of John Ritter

Hi, Everyone!

Notwithstanding the fact that I join our nation in a moment of commemoration on the horrible events of 9/11, today’s blog post is dedicated to the memory of one of the greatest actors of all time—Jonathan Southworth Ritter.

Thanks to nostalgic television shows, I know about the legendary role that Mr. Ritter played as Jack Tripper on Three’s Company. I also knew him as the voice of Clifford, the Big Red Dog. However, I grew to love him as Paul Hennessy from ABC’s Eight Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter. I watched the latter show religiously, marveling over how Mr. Hennessy was so strict yet so loving to his two daughters and one son.

And then on September 11, 2003, I received the shocking news that John Ritter had passed away at the age of 54 years old.

Although I was nine years old at the time, I remember very vividly how my heart broke into pieces upon learning of Mr. Ritter’s sudden passing. I went to school the very next day, crying my little eyes out. I really didn’t know how to explain to my Fourth Grade teacher that I was saddened upon the loss of Mr. Ritter. Let’s face it: While I didn’t know him personally, I felt like I knew him. Truth be told, y’all, losing Mr. Ritter was like losing a family member or a very close friend. I tell you what, though: Only after talking to my Gramma Jewel later on that day did I feel a little better. Gramma Jewel explained to me that my feelings were normal, and that I just showed that I had a big heart. She also said: “Tasha, if it’s any consolation to ya, I’m sure that John Ritter is smilin’ down on you, so grateful to have such a loyal fan like you.”

Gramma Jewel was right—I did feel a little better, but I knew that it would not be the same when I watched Eight Simple Rules.

Here it is, ten years later, and I’m still missing the entertaining antics of John Ritter. Thankfully, we’ve got YouTube and the Three’s Company DVD sets, but yet and still, it’s not the same. I wish I had had a chance to meet him before he left us so soon, but as Gramma Jewel always says: “That’s just the way it goes, and so it goes.” Nevertheless, I am grateful that I took time out to dedicate a blog post to one of the greatest actors of all time… and while I’m thinking about it, Mr. D reminds me so much of John Ritter—the look, the style, the happy-go-lucky attitude, and the corny sense of humor. I guess in a way, I have my own version of Mr. Ritter, in the form of Mr. D!

As I close this blog, I just want to say: THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, MR. RITTER—I LOVE YOU!!!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Recognizing Grampa Clark's 79th Birthday

Happy Tuesday, Everybody!

Today’s blog is very special, because it’s dedicated to a very special man in my family. Even though he’s living the good life in Glory, I still recognize that today would have been his 79^th Birthday.

Of course, I’m talking about my grandfather, Clark Kenneth Jones!

I know that I introduced my Grampa Clark to you all on a number of occasions. I may have even shared a classic cherished moment that I had right before he passed away. I was two years old at the time, but I clearly remember my Grampa Clark picking me up and lifting me high above his head, then suddenly “dropping” me. I also remember him singing the theme song to the nostalgic TV show That Girl, and referring to me as such. Those are the only things that I remember about my Grampa Clark—again, considering I was only two years old—but I still cherish those very memories in my heart.

The following is an excerpt from Grampa Clark’s obituary that I would like to share with you all:

In 1976, Clark moved his family to Los Angeles, California, where he and his family united with First Baptist Church of Culver City. In 1977, Clark witnessed his dream come true when he was appointed kindergarten teacher at Sapp Elementary School. Known as one of the original pillars of the Sapp Elementary Family, Clark founded the school’s motto: “Shaping the kids of today for tomorrow.” His mission was to reach at least one child, and he exceeded his mission after several students referred to him as their “most favoritest teacher in the whole wide world.” When Clark retired in June 1993, he was succeeded by next door neighbor and best friend Bret Douglas.

Clark was such a joy to be around, and was anything but shy. He was also a big kid at heart who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved and lived life, up to the fullest and beyond. Clark also was a huge wrestling fan, and loved to throw Christmas parties and host Fourth of July celebrations.

When I read the part about my Grampa Clark being “anything but shy,” I had to chuckle on account of because that statement is the bona fide truth. I have watched home movies and skimmed through the pages of many photo albums for myself to know that my Grampa Clark was quite the gregarious fella. He loved to have fun, even if it was at his own expense. Case in point: There’s a home movie from Fourth of July 1994, where Grampa Clark creatively combined a barbecue/fish fry with a mortgage burning ceremony (I was barely five months old at the time). In the movie, Grampa Clark was pretending to instigate an argument with Gramma Jewel, Mrs. D, and Mrs. Duncan over some cornbread. The pretend argument then escalates into laughter, as the ladies triple team my poor little grandfather, and everyone is just bustin’ up laughing. Knowing that he is completely outnumbered, Grampa Clark shouts out: “Well, y’all was the ones who wanted to know where the cornbread was—hell!” And then everybody busted out laughin’ again.

Yep, that was Grampa Clark in a nutshell!

Well, I guess I had better get going and close this blog up… and just by the nostalgic memories of my grandfather, I’ve been hit with a brainstorm: I’ve got more footage for my Grampa Clark homage! Let me get on it, but I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

And by the way: Happy 79^th Birthday, Grampa Clark—I love you lots!

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

I Just Gotta Be Free!

Happy Wednesday, Everybody!

So, I decided to be bold and daring today—I’m gonna head to the mall around noontime today.

Look, y’all gotta understand: While I am extremely glad to be home, these four walls seem to be closing in on me, and I think I’m suffering from claustrophobia. Hell, I guess that’s what happens when you’re so acclimated to being out of what was once your comfort zone. I told y’all that Rust College has officially spoiled me. Ever since last August, my eyes have been open to a whole new world out there. I think it was Ice Cube ‘nim who said: “The world is mine, now back up, because I gotsta get mine before I act up!”

Then again, my girl Deniece Williams said it best a long time: “I’ve just got to be free… free… FREE!!!”

And even though I’m practically an adult, I’m still a responsible adult—and besides, I’m still living with my mom and dad, and my name ain’t nowhere on the deed to the house. I said all that to say this: I’ve called both my mom and dad and asked for their permission, and they both gave me the green light to go to the mall. Oh, y’all heard me—I asked both of my parents, and they both said yes! You see, in my family, the rule is this: Mom and Dad still have the final say, and no matter how old I am, I am still their child. I am also aware that if one said yes and the other said no, then I’d still be stuck within these four walls—straight simple! I ain’t gotta like it, nor do I have to love it, but I can do two things: nothing and accept it!

And just in case you’re wondering why I have a picture of the Bunkers in today’s blog, it’s because I’m paying homage to the late Jean Stapleton, who passed away just last Friday. By the way, the tribute that Antenna TV gave yesterday was beautifully done. I think I mentioned it yesterday, but my Aunt Glo has some of those same Edith Bunker qualities… and for the record, so does Gramma Jewel; she emulates Edith Bunker’s voice whenever she greets someone with her trademark “Hey, Baby—how you doin’!”

Oh, shoot—it’s time for me to close this blog up and head out, if only for a little while. I’m just gonna go to the mall and walk around, maybe buy a couple of things. I do know that I’m gonna treat myself to a Philly Chicken Cheesesteak combo whilst I’m up there, and I gotta get a strawberry pineapple smoothie as well… but that’s for later on.

I might holla at y’all later on, but if I don’t, then y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha