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

Looks Like I Really Did Thrive in 2015!

Well, y’all—here it is!

This is my very special “Year in Review” blog post, where I highlight the greatest moments in my life in the year 2015… heck, this year was so good that I actually have a Top Ten list!

Lest I forget: I want to point out that the ten highlights are in no particular order, but at the same time, I do have a number one highlight—so let’s stop talking about it, and let’s get on down to the nitty-gritty.

AUNTIE STEPHANIE’S #50

When Auntie Stephanie hit the big 5-0 in April, little did she know that we were planning the perfect birthday party for her—a 70s birthday party, if you will. Granted, I wasn’t there to help celebrate Auntie Stephanie (a.k.a. Foxy Brown Suga) on account of I was preparing for finals at Rust College, but thanks to some major assistance from my fellow Bearcats, I threw my own 70s party in Auntie Stephanie’s honor… and yes, we were decked out in groovy seventies costumes, Man!

SUMMER JOB AT THE CULVER CITY CHILDREN’S CENTER

Special thanks to Jessica Torres for putting in a good word for me at the Culver City Children’s Center, where I gained firsthand experience as a tutor and a teacher. It seems as though everywhere I go, little kids flock to me—and the Culver City Children’s Center was no different. Granted, it was only a one-month deal, but I learned so much within that one month. And that led to…

INTERNSHIP AT CARTER ELEMENTARY

Those fourteen weeks at my old elementary school proved to be the greatest fourteen weeks of my life, and the added bonus was working right alongside my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Ingrid Martin. Much like my summer job at the Culver City Children’s Center, I had so much fun at Carter Elementary… and heck, I even discovered that a couple of little fellas had a little crush on me. On my last day, Mrs. Martin and the little ones gave me the sweetest Christmas present—plenty of gratitude and appreciation.

THE COUNTDOWN TO GRADUATION

Almost immediately after the 2014-15 semester came to a close this past April, I began celebrating with a countdown to my graduation. I’m just four months away from earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, and I know that I’ll have more back-up than reverse on the day of April 24, 2016.

THE GREAT 2-1

It’s not everyday that a gal turns 21 years old, and not too many youngsters get to see such a great age, so y’all could imagine my attitude of gratitude when God allowed me to see the great 2-1. And if I may be so bold to say: I’ve never felt sexier than now!

COUSIN CALVIN AND MISS KAREN

This cute little love story actually began sometime last year, but it really took off this past summer. It started innocently enough: Cousin Calvin admired Miss Karen from afar, and finally worked up enough gumption to ask her out on a date, to which Miss Karen said yes. As of this blog post, Cousin Calvin and Miss Karen have been going out on several dates since then, and they are really enjoying each other’s company. Stay tuned, y’all, because this story is getting real good.

WINSTON CAMPBELL

It looks like I have room for romance after all! Over the summer, a young gentleman by the name of Winston Campbell found a way to my heart, and has taught me that it’s okay to love again. I’m not gonna say that I’m head over heels in love, but I will say that I have enjoyed Winston’s company over these past couple months, and thus far he’s proven to back up his words with his actions.

FAMILY REUNION 2015

So, as y’all are aware, the Jones Family continued with our new annual summertime tradition in the form of a family reunion. This time, our reunion took place in Southern California, at Auntie Cherri and Uncle Alex’s house. This year’s reunion was very special, in that Cousin Becky got baptized that same weekend. It was truly a great way to close out our family reunion. I’m really looking forward to next year.

GRAMMA JEWEL’S FOURSCORE

It’s no secret that Gramma Jewel is the true legend in our family, and that’s why it made perfect sense to throw her a surprise birthday party when she turned 80 years old in October. I still remember how surprised she was when she realized how much of a fuss that we made over her. I promise y’all—no expense was spared for the crowned jewel in our family, and to prove that, Gramma Jewel stated that a surprise party was the second greatest gift that she had ever received.

AND THE NUMBER ONE MOMENT OF 2015

I FINALLY JUMPED THAT HURDLE!!!

Considering that it just happened yesterday afternoon, this deserves to be the greatest moment of the year, simply because it was a long time coming. I knew in my heart that I had forgiven Ray Hernandez for his treacherous ways, but I still had that pent-up anger and frustration. Well, when I finally met him face-to-face, I let him know that my sentiments had not changed—he is still forgiven and I wish him nothing but the absolute best in this life. However, when he told me how his heart was broken far worse, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him. I let him know that he would get over the hurt eventually, and that it was time for him to heal. I really could’ve been a vindictive little vixen, but I chose to take the high road, and in the end, I am the richer. Now, it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my life!

Well, y’all—these are the Top Ten moments of 2015. With the new year just a couple of hours away, I am very excited. Granted, I cannot see in the future, but I do know who holds the future, and as long as He’s guiding me along the way, I am most definitely in good hands.

With that said, I hope to see y’all on the other side, into a brand-new year!

Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

The Vipress Got Her Groove Back, Y'all!

Hi, Everybody! 

So, I had my meeting with what’s-his-name this afternoon, and I gotta say—I feel a helluva whole lot better than I did!

I arrived at the sandwich shop around 2:30pm this afternoon, where Winston was on his break. Heaven only know why, but I let Winston know the modus operandi behind my visit—I only gave him a little bit of info, and he was able to decipher what was going on. He gave me a big hug and let me know that all I just needed to say the word, and he would be ready to “whoop some candy ass.” I laughed and let Winston know that an ass-whuppin’ was not necessary, but I also told him to watch for my signal; I would brush my right eyebrow with my pinkie.

Well, Ray did show up, and as soon as he saw me, he dropped his head in shame. Most surprising to me, all of the anger, frustration, and rage that I had within me, had all vanished within seconds. I guess I really do have a big heart after all, because I gave Ray a sincere hug and told him to forget what happened in the past on account of all was forgotten and forgiven. I also let him know that I was pissed off beyond all recognition, but in hindsight I became a better woman. I even thanked Ray for reminding me that I am a smart, sensual, sexy sweetheart with confidence, charisma, and curves.

Ray chuckled, then he said, “Well, I’m just grateful that you found it in your heart to forgive me.”

Right then and there, I let him know what was up.

“Don’t get your hopes up too high, Babe,” I said with a wink. “I didn’t forgive you for you—I forgave you for me, because I don’t want the real man of my dreams to pay for your trespasses. Oh, yeah—you proved that you’re really not the one for me; the signs were all there, but I was just so head over heels in stupidity. Nevertheless, the next man will fully appreciate me far more than you.”

Ray was obviously taken aback behind my comments—the stupid ass look on his face proved that fact! Anyway, he bounced back and actually confessed that his Cal State Long Beach classmate Naomi broke his heart, stomped on it, and then shoved it down his throat. Of course, I knew all along that had happened, but I was surprisingly compassionate towards Ray. Heaven knows that I wanted to rub it in just a little bit, but hell—he was already suffering enough.

And this is why I say that I feel a lot better than I did. I guess I do have a big heart after all. And even more so than that, I got my groove back!


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

I've Waited Long Enough... It's Time!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, Christmas 2015 is in the record books, and I want y’all to know that I had a great time with my family… but then again, I always have a great time when I’m with my family.

So, as it stands, we are just a few days away from a brand-new year… and I want y’all to know that I’m still in shock at how this year just seemed to zip by. I promise y’all—I think all I saw was a blur. Nevertheless, if The Lord says the same, then we will cross into the year 2016, and y’all already know that I am excited about the upcoming year on account of I’ve got four more months until I finally get my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. I am so excited, y’all… as a matter of fact, I’ve already gotten my plane ticket to return to Bearcat Country; I’ve just got to call Auntie Gladys or Great Aunt Donna to see who will pick me up from the Memphis Airport.

In other news, I received yet another change of heart, thanks to another email from what’s-his-name earlier this afternoon. Now, check this out: Per what’s-his-name’s request, I was asked to meet up with him before I returned to Rust. Seeing as how the ball has been in my court, I first waited a full hour before I responded, only because I wanted to pick the perfect place to meet up. My cousins begged me to take them along, “just as witnesses.” I denied my cousins’ request, and all of a sudden, I thought about a gentleman named Winston Campbell. I happen to know that Winston will be working at the sandwich shop this Wednesday, so I finally responded to what’s-his-name’s email and let him know to meet me at my favorite sandwich shop this Wednesday… and almost five minutes later, he responded, “I’ll be there—thank you for meeting with me.”

He still doesn’t know that I’ve got the keys, but he’ll find what I’m all about tomorrow… hahahahaha!

Until next time, I’ll holla at y’all.


Smooches,
Natasha

Has Christmas Come Upon Us Already?

Hi, Everybody—and Happy Christmas Eve!

Before I kick off today’s blog post, I would like to send my prayers and well-wishes to my peeps in Holly Springs, Mississippi and the surrounding areas. I got an email yesterday evening from my girl Ruby, and she informed me that a tornado caused some significant damage. I’m looking at the pictures on the news right now, and I am heavy-hearted right now. I am glad to know that Ruby ‘nim are alive and well, but at the same time, my heart goes out to those who lost homes and loved ones… and it doesn’t help matters any that all of this happened right before Christmas. Yes, I realize that everything happens for a reason—and yes, God always knows what He’s doing—but I’m just in mourning for my home away from home. Once again, my prayers go out to those who are suffering loss right now.

Notwithstanding my heavy heart, I am still shocked that Christmas just rolled up on us all of a sudden. Where did all that time go? I mean, seriously—wasn’t it just New Year’s Day? It just feels like 2015 is all one big blur, like it was here one minute and then all of a sudden… poof! Well, ready or not, here comes Christmas… and then a couple more days, we’ll be entering a brand-new year, all in that order. Thankfully, both of these holidays are a week apart… hahahaha! And while I’m on the subject of Christmas, I’ve been taking a look at my Christmas list, and I notice that it’s gotten shorter over the years. It has gotten to the point where I don’t really want anything for Christmas—materialistically speaking, that is. At the same time, there is one particular Christmas present that I would like… I guess you can say that it’s my heart’s desire, and that’s all I’ve got to say about that.

Well, I reckon that I’ll close out today’s blog post, but I’ll holla at’cha on Saturday. Until then, y’all take care, and have a very Merry Christmas.


Smooches,
Natasha

Looks Like I've Got A Change of Heart!

Happy Christmas Eve Eve, Everybody!

No, that is not a typo—y’all read that correctly, and I trust that you’re having a great morning… and I just realized that Christmas is another two days! I am so thrown off right now—I got all my Christmas shopping done four weeks ago, and now the big day is upon us all of a sudden. I don’t think I’m ready for the festivities just yet… and apparently that doesn’t matter right now, because ready or not, Christmas is almost here.

So, if y’all remember my blog post from yesterday, I talked about the email that I got from what’s-his-name… and for those of you who are wondering, I did email him back this morning. I didn’t go into some long, drawn-out thesis, though—I kept it short, sweet, and simple. I let him know straight up that I forgave him, but I still don’t trust him. I also let him know that time made me stronger, wiser, and a little bit better… and for those of you keeping score, I never mentioned one thing about Winston. Don’t get me wrong—I thought about it, but I believe in playing fair, and I don’t want to kick Ray any further down than he already is, all things considered.

Yes, I know that I called him by his name—this time, though. I’m not fully all the way there yet, but like I told y’all: I’m getting a little bit better day by day.

And I just realized that it’s been a little over two years since that bit of unpleasantness happened. As I mentioned on several occasions, this little trial knocked me down, but it didn’t knock me out. I mean, let’s face it: No one wants to be humiliated and heartbroken, but it happens to even the best of us. At the same time, this unpleasant experience taught me a lot about myself; it taught me that I am truly one of a kind, and I am a diamond in the rough. It also taught me that Ray was not the one for me… and technically, I kinda knew that from the beginning, but the revelation was crystal clear.

So, they say that the next step of overcoming your fear is to meet it head-on. I guess that means that Ray and I gotta meet up sometime before the end of this year.

And yet, the ball is still in my court!

Another E-Mail from "He Who Shall Not Be Named"

Hi, Everybody!

Here it is—another beautiful brand-new day, and it’s cold and rainy. Looks like I’ll be spending another day in the warm, toasty house, much like yesterday.

So, check this out, y’all: I was just checking my email, and to my surprise, I got an email sometime this morning from “he who shall not be named…”

That’s right—I still refuse to call this jackass by his name. Yes, I know that I’m being petty, and some of you may question if I am truly past that hurtful event. Well, let me set the record straight: I am over it, but every now and then, I get some kind of ugly reminder about that jackass, and my emotions begin to get the better of me. I’m still very conflicted, because on the one hand, I’m in a much better place, but yet and still, I have these mental outbursts of rage. Yes, I know that it is nothing more than a psychological issue, but then again, you can’t expect any less from me, considering that I’ve suffered a broken heart.

So, as I stated earlier, “he who shall not be named” sent me an email sometime this morning, in a pitiful attempt to try and get back into my good graces. For starters, he chose “I Miss You Dearly” as a subject title, and then he goes on to talk about how he thought about me constantly, and how he wish he could turn back the hands of time and undo the pain that he caused me… you know what, I’m not gonna go into too much detail about his email, but I will say this: Judging by all this rhetoric and the rigmarole, I know that there’s a dead cat on the line somewhere. I can’t help but to think that he’s felt the pain that he tried to inflict on me. It’s like the late great Mother Harriette Fields once said, “The deceit that you do will always find a way to bite you right in the buttocks.” Well, I’m not a betting woman, but I can almost bet that poetic justice was served.

He never has to tell me what happened to him, and I don’t ever have to find out, but I do know that I feel a lot more vindicated than I did. With that said, there’s only one thing to do: I’ll email him back… tomorrow!

Remember, the ball is still in my court.