Wife, Woman, And Mother "Hood"

Well, Hello There!!!

2010-06-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's been six months! And it looks like I have gained some Japanese readers! (Or spammers, who knows...LOL)

Well, as anyone can guess, a lot has happened since then. My two older daughters have started hitting their stride in school, and are doing extremely well! Maya is on the merit roll, and Nicolette wend from average grades to nothing but A's and B's, mostly A's!!! I am especially proud of her, because Nicolette has worked the hardest out of the three. Angela passed the TAKS test, and though she has to go to summer school for math, it's promotional, which means that she will be joining her friends in the fourth grade this year!!!!

Matthew and I are still going strong. Our relationship is strengthening, and we are becoming better friends to one another. We are much older now, and have been together since we were teens, so we are beginning to drop a lot of the pretenses that we have developed toward one another over the years (WITHIN REASON, LOL). I have more respect for him each day, and he is really working hard to try to understand me better. We still disagree at times, but we don't forget the important thing between us, and that's we love each other very much, and don't want to be with anyone else! When you know that you are truly loved, and loved just for being you, you work hard to keep that love alive.

We are getting ready to host our mother-in-law and her youngest daughter for the 4th of July again. The girls are leaving with them for the rest of the summer, which will give Matthew and I our much-needed (and much anticipated) break.

I've started working out regularly, and although there isn't much of a change weight-wise, I am leaner, my clothes fit better, I have much more energy and stamina, and am a lot healthier. I am doing this for my health and strength, not to look a particular way. I am pleased with the results so far.

I will blog more often, but I will only disclose what I wouldn't mind anyone knowing or finding out. In the age of public disclosure, there's still something to be said about discretion and keeping some things to yourself, pondering things in your heart, if you will, you know what I'm saying?

It's Been Three Months......

2010-01-15T06:42:00.000-08:00

since my last post. I am seriously re-thinking the whole blogging thing. I mean, I really don't have much to talk about now. We are kind of settling into our lives...the girls in school, Pop and I in our jobs, and life is pretty...well, uneventful. The most exciting thing that has happened lately is that we bought a Wii for Christmas.

I'm not saying that I WANT chaos and confusion in my life.....I have prayed long and hard, and pursued peace in my life with all of my might, and I love it! It's jus that there isn't much going on that even I think anyone else would be interested in.

I also know that this can change. A natural disaster (which was the inspiration for this blog), trouble with the kids (I have a 14 year-old daughter whose interest in boys is peaking), maybe trouble in my marriage (who knows what the future holds?) can happen at any time. But even if those things do happen, I don't think that it would be wise to disclose those issues in a public blog, you know? I don't know who is reading this!

Yes, yes, I know....I should blog for me and no one else. But when I think that I don't have anything interesting to blog about, maybe it's time to call it quits. For now, anyway.

The ACORN Fiasco: Part 2

2009-09-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

I love it when I find others that think the way I do, even if it's out here in cyberspace! Here's another wonderful commentary, from the Chicago Tribune:

How ACORN Helped Its Enemies

The ACORN Fiasco

2009-09-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

This is insane.

This is clearly another attempt to discredit the President. Remember, President Obama has ties to this organization, and their "get out the vote" work (which many allege that Obama may have helped fund himself) quite possibly have made a substantial difference in his election.

Now, this college kid makes this stupid video, and now ACORN is fighting back (read here) in order to keep its federal funding.

Several things bother me about all of this. First off, this kid targeted the ignorant, the under-educated or uneducated, the weak, and the simple-minded in order to accomplish his goals. Anyone who has a job anywhere knows that these kinds of people exist in every working environment. He even stated himself that he has visited many offices, and most of them kicked him and his friend out. (Read his interview here.) So, like most journalists (if it bleeds, it leads, and he is a journalism major), he took advantage of the ignorant in order to get his point across. This happens every day across the country, but this time, this tactic is being used to undermine an entire organization, and has hit pay dirt.

Secondly, the government moved swiftly to disassociate themselves from the organization. Prior to this idiotic video, is there any proof available which proves that ACORN has granted assistance to others who wanted to use government-funded grants to purchase homes to be used in order to conduct illegal business practices in the past? If there is, I'd like to see it!

Finally, I cannot believe that these people, our government officials, those who are responsible for running this country, and who enact laws and policies that affect every American, can take such nonsense so seriously, without any pause; they wasted no time in laying down the law, if you will, against a grass-roots organization. They didn't even take the time to examine the legitimacy of the accusations being made against the organization. They also didn't question the kid's credibility, his background, or his motive for doing this. Clearly, they didn't recognize the "fakeness" (This kid a pimp? Are you kidding me?!?)

Now every Republican or 'conservative' has jumped on the ACORN-bashing bandwagon, with spit flying, eyes blazing and teeth gnashing, spewing vitriol towards this organization, and of course, Obama, with a renewed vigor.

Makes you wonder: Who funded this kid's project?

(More insightful takes on the video, and the foolishness of it all here and here.)

IT'S BEEN AWHILE........

2009-09-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

I have been very, very busy. The kids are in school, and it seems that I have been running non-stop ever since. So far, the school has voluntarily enrolled Maya into its Gifted & Talented program, Nicolette is a cheerleader for her junior high school, and Angela's grades are improving, thanks to summer school, and everyone in the family helping her over the summer. The girls are doing well, even though everyone in the house, with the exception of my husband, has come down with a cold. Flu vaccines keep you from getting the flu, but don't help with other germs and seasonal illnesses. Nicolette had to stay home last week, and Angela's home with a fever today.

My car was broken into this month. My CD's, my bag with all of my work equipment and some personal papers, and even my bible were stolen. The ignition and lock to the driver-side door was damaged. I have to spend time and money that I really don't have to get that fixed, as well as replace the documents that were taken. What would anyone want with a cheap bible that has been all marked in and highlighted is beyond me. I managed to get the headset replaced at work, but I am still waiting for another training manual. I'm working on replacing my bible, too. Luckily, most of the CD's were homemade, so I just have to download some more copies of my favorites when I have time. I just pray that something good comes out of this, and I am grateful that I can still drive my car. Heck, I'm still grateful that I have a car. My neighbor's truck was stolen a few months ago, and he had to buy a new vehicle. I wasn't very compassionate in my attitude towards him when it happened, and I think that the Lord wasn't pleased with me at all, which is probably why He allowed this to happen. I learned that I have to work on being more empathetic and less cynical, and be very careful what I say and think about people, even when I think I am "alone." The Lord is always with us, and He hears and knows everything. (Ecclesiastes 10:20 NKJV)

Work has been fine so far. My last evaluation rating was a 99.87. Not 100%, but still pretty good. I am always striving to do and be my best!

Now I must catch up on some rest, and finish watching 300 before Nicolette's game starts this evening. And I have to bring Angela to the doctor, before starting a seven-day workweek tomorrow. Hooray. Well, at least I am getting paid Friday!

NEW ORLEANS, 2009

2009-07-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

My husband and I went to New Orleans this weekend. We wanted to see how far things have progressed since Hurricane Katrina, and catch up with some old friends.

I did not expect to see what I saw there. Downtown New Orleans, the French Quarter, and the Central Business District, all of the areas that make money for the city, are still thriving. We visited some of our old stomping grounds (the 'hoods), and white folks have actually bought houses and moved in! The houses that my husband and I lived in before the storm have been rebuilt (white folks live in them now). I am surprised, because those neighborhoods (Uptown New Orleans close to the CBD, and the Fifth through the Seventh Wards) have always been off-limits to white people. Not meaning that they weren't welcome there, but those have always been unsavory areas for them to live in. The whites in New Orleans always migrated to the suburban areas of the city (Chalmette, St. Tammany, Slidell, Kenner, the Westbank). But I guess that they were forced to re-think their options since those suburban areas were wiped out by the storm.

Uptown New Orleans from South Broad Street and Washington Avenue to Tchoupitoulas Street are still in good shape, but most of the homes out there are for sale. Oschner Hospital purchased Baptist Hospital and opened its emergency room. This and Tulane are the only hospitals in the Metro Area, but they are still severely understaffed, and cannot serve every patient that needs care.

City Park is open, but most of those old oak trees that framed the park are gone.

Most of the grocery stores are gone. Rouses bought most of them, but the only Winn-Dixie that survived seemed to be the one on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie. The Wal-Mart where I used to work (on Tchoupitoulas Street) is still open.

The Gentilly area is only a shell of its former self. The former home of the 'Creoles', most of those homes are now empty, torn down, or for sale. Many people just didn't return.

New Orleans East, home of the prosperous, middle to upper-middle class African-American and Asian population, is wiped out. Street after street, row after row of homes, apartment complexes and businesses lie desolate and empty. An entire shopping mall, Lake Forest Mall, is gone. Nothing there but a huge, empty lot. The Read Road Wal-Mart, the first in the New Orleans area, didn't re-open. Probably for every house that is occupied, 6 to 8 in the same block aren't.

Many of the housing projects, including the one I grew up in, The Calliope (Or B.W. Cooper) have been destroyed. Ironically, the city decided to destroy the development with the history of the fewest crime problems, the Lafitte Project (the one that ran along Orleans Avenue, and sat right across the street from Dooky Chases' restaurant), and left the troubled Iberville housing project, the one that sits in the middle of the New Orleans' Central Business District, open.

We did not have a chance to drive through the lower Ninth Ward, and were advised by some members of our church not to do so. There weren't many people out and about, and this was a weekend. Most of the 'hooptie' cars, a signature feature in New Orleans, are gone now. But what really managed to bring me to tears, though, was the state of the Lakefront.

Lake Pontchartrain was this beautiful, serene place that everyone, whether rich or poor, could go and just enjoy the sunset (or sunrise), listen to the waves, and get away from all of the noise and the dysfunction that was New Orleans. I remember bringing my kids there to play. Watching the fish jumping in the water. The speed boaters showing off their new toys. My husband and I always went to spend quiet time together. We ate a lot of good food together out there. Lots of picnics, barbecue, kicking it with friends and just good times.

Half of the Lakefront now is closed off, unfit for anyone to go near. What's left is overgrown with grass, and unkempt. The benches and picnic areas were never restored. They are now just heaps of bricks and piles of wood and debris. Most of those beautiful Lakefront properties lay desolate. Many of the property owners were too afraid to return. It's like a ghost town there. It's just awful. Oh, the Lakefront was so beautiful. How can anyone let such beauty waste away is beyond me.

We did manage to enjoy some good eats while we were down there. My husband and I ate our first "Po'Boy" sandwich in almost four years (I had a catfish sandwich, and he had a hot sausage and cheese sandwich). That french bread is the best bread in the world, in my opinion. And it was fresh! Like they had just taken it out of the oven that day! We also managed to get some beignets and cafe' au lait, some pulled pork, barbecued baked beans and homemade rolls from Corky's barbecue, some sweet treats from Gambino's Bakery, and Big Shot Sodas! I am so full! LOL

The people that are left in New Orleans are still as friendly as ever, easy to smile and give you a great, big hug. The love is still there, but you can tell that they are fragile. So much has happened to try and break their spirits. I have seen and heard more depressing things this weekend then I care to admit. But I am glad that I went. New Orleans is my home, always will be. It's where I came from, and I will never forget that. My husband and I are already talking about going back again. We need to do what's best for the family right now, but there's no harm in staying connected.

Thanks for the comments to my blog about Professor Gates. Here is another article that supports the point that I was trying to make here. It is my desire that the citizens in this country strive to start respecting one another as individuals. I believe that the only way that this can happen is when we start letting go of past hurts, pains, and injustices, start respecting and loving ourselves (insecurity and self-loathing plague the African-American community in this country), stop with all of the seperatism and biases, cease the infighting, colorism, and racism that is present in ALL races (it's not just black vs. white; there are racist and colorist black people, too), and start accepting one another. And if we want others to respect us as individuals, we must show respect, too. Put your character and integrity on display. Behave in a manner that draws attention to your personhood, not your race. This can be done, but we have to rise above the pettiness that is prevalent in this society. Let's grow up already!

HIS BELLIGERENCE GOT HIM ARRESTED

2009-07-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

For heaven's sake! This man behaved as if he has NO IDEA how to act when stopped by the police! Where is the wisdom? Where was his common sense?

The same thing happened a few years ago, when Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney tried to enter a government building without her identification. She threw a fit, too, and later apologized.

Every grown black man or woman should know, having been taught by their parents (or personal experiences) how to behave when the cops stop them or pull them over. Yes, there is a history of racial profiling in America. Yes, when we are stopped, it is aggravating and frustrating, and maybe even a bit scary at the same time. But we, as adults, should know that the key to keeping this inconvenience as short and as civil as possible is to try with all your might to keep a level head and do what the officers ask you to do.

Of course, it is a shame that in this country, we have to train our children to fear the cops because there is a possibility that we may be abused by them. But that stands the reason for a grown, educated man to throw a fit just because the officers were doing their job. They received a suspicious call, and they went to investigate it. It's not like the police knew who Professor Gates was when they went there. It's not like they were sitting in their car, saying to themselves when they heard the call come over the radio "Yeah, that's Professor Gates, I know him! Let's go over there and give that (enter racial slur here) what for!" The house that Professor Gates lives in is rented, so who knows how long he has been living there? For heaven's sake, get off your Ph.D. high horse and show the man your ID. Mr. Gates, you are not a celebrity. Educated, black and successful, yes, but no, everyone in America is not familiar with you. Just because you have a label behind your name does not mean that you are better than everyone else in America, and that gives you a free pass to be exempt from the rules, the agitation, and the nuisances that every other African-American in this country faces on a daily basis.

I am, in a word, embarrassed for him, just as I was when Congresswoman McKinney threw that diva fit. And I wish that President Obama would have gotten the facts straight first before making that comment on national television. I don't care who you are, it is never okay to behave disrespectfully towards lawmakers, police officers, bosses, parents, pastors, teachers...anyone in authority. What an example Professor Gates is setting for today's youth: If you are stopped by the cops, then it's okay to throw a tantrum instead of presenting your ID when asked. Lovely. Overturn all of the values and virtues that millions of us are teaching to our children by behaving in this manner. Anyone, whether white, black, Hispanic, Asian, whatever race, who becomes belligerent when stopped or questioned by the police faces the possibility of being arrested. The reason for the arrest is not because of racial profiling. It's called disturbing the peace.

NO WATER!!!!!

2009-07-16T09:07:00.001-07:00

There is a broken water main or a broken water pipe in the neighborhood that maintenance crews are in the process of repairing. This leaves everyone in the subdivision without water this morning. I thank God that I am off today, and working the night shift on Friday! Even if it is not fixed by then (which I am sure it probably will be), at least I have enough time to work something out.

Well, the girls are in Mississippi, and the house is still neat from the cleaning I did to accommodate the in-law's stay here. It is also peaceful and quiet. We are taking advantage of the quiet, and getting some much-needed rest and sleep. The rug rats will be back at the beginning of August, and I have another week-long vacation that I am going to use to get them ready for school, and possibly take them to the beach or something before they go back.

As far as work goes, the last evaluation I had places me in strong status. That's pretty good, but I still need improvement. I've been told that I am kinda rough with the callers. I don't mean to be, but sometimes, some folks are irrational and unreasonable when they are in an emergency, which is understandable, but it is important for me to maintain my composure. The both of us excited aren't going to get either of us anywhere fast (they in enough shape to be of help in the emergency, my being able to get them off the phone, LOL). So I'm working on that.

Pops and I are planning a trip this upcoming weekend, details to follow.

My Life Motto: Isaiah 30:15

2009-06-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

"Would we be strengthened, it must be in quietness and in confidence, keeping peace in our own minds, and relying upon God." (from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary)

R.I.P. MICHAEL JACKSON: 1958-2009

2009-06-26T00:38:00.000-07:00

Finally, peace. He will be missed.

SHIA LABEOUF

2009-06-23T22:13:00.001-07:00

I am taking the girls and some friends of theirs to see the new Transformers movie tomorrow. They loved the first one. I am particularly intrigued by the leading man, Shia Labeouf. I don't think that a lot of people give this boy the credit that he is due. He is 21 years old, has come from unimaginable hardship, but I think that his reasons for why he works and has a passion for what he does is the secret to his overwhelming success. There are many reasons not to like him, but here are several reasons why I do:

1) He is FUNNY.

He did stand-up as a kid, and it helps him, because I have yet to see him do a bad interview. He is so quick, and self-depreciating, and irreverent, that if you're not careful (and if you don't know anything about him), you can't really tell whether he is joking or telling the truth. He comes across as real and genuine, even if, he admits himself, it's probably all an act, a "con game." Watch his interview for Indiana Jones on the David Letterman Show here.

2) He is fearless.

The kid endures not one, but 2 PR disasters (getting arrested for criminal trespassing, and being charged with a DUI and getting into a bad car accident that caused him to severely injure his hand)that could have ruined other actors' careers forever. But not Shia. Not only does he take his licks like a man, but he continues to work, puts up with the paps, and simply refuses to hide from life. He is always being photographed out and about, mostly walking, sometimes on his skateboard, hitching with Mom, or even riding a motorcycle. And one of the director's that's worked with him claimed that no matter what, Shia's ALWAYS on time!

3) He loves his parents.

Role models they were not. Ordinary people would have easily blamed their failures in life on the type of parents Shia had, and most would probably have felt justified in doing so. They were pretty whacked-out, and his childhood was less than ideal. But to this day, you will rarely, if ever, hear Shia say anything disrespectful about his parents. He loves his mom and dad, and diligently takes care of them. That kind of character isn't developed in an environment of privilege.

4) He's ADORABLE.

That face. Those eyes. Those lips. That curly hair. His nearly-flawless skin. His newly-ripped physique. Whether he is trotting around town on foot dressed worse than a bum, or rocking a tailored suit, Shia is definitely beautiful to look at. He cleans up good, too. And even when the paps catch him sucking on his favorite vice, his cancer sticks, they never can seem to take a bad picture of him. The camera just loves him.

5) Child actor, but NO child.

Craig Kilborn once told him that he made him laugh "a man's laugh." Another interviewer said that he's an "old soul." He has a heavy voice, and speaks in a manner that says he's either been here before, or he's seen, lived, and known too much for his tender age. Contrary to popular belief, he doesn't strike me as immature or arrogant. He strikes me as a youngster who is trying to grow, to be a man. He is finding his way. He has his own opinions, his own ideas, and his own interests. Hell, he even has his own house! And in Hollywood, where all of the stars seem to be cut from exactly the same mold, and are literally carbon copies of one another, he fights to maintain his individuality.

6) He is a fan first.

Hearing him speak about his co-workers, and the respect that he has for them, is awesome. How anyone can see that as arrogance is beyond me. They're probably jealous. I think his respectfulness and eagerness to please his bosses are the reason why so many lucrative opportunities are being made available to him.

7) He (is trying to) learn from his mistakes.

Dopey mishaps, chain smoking and imbibing aside, you don't hear about Shia Labeouf using drugs, partying all night, making a sex tape, or other stupid things that most of his manufactured young-un peers in Hollywood are doing. He's said that he is determined to make good decisions for himself and for his career. He wants to go far in this business. I wish him all the best.

8) He works hard.

He's said that nothing came easy for him; he's had to get out there and work hard for everything that he's achieved. I believe that this is true. I mean, how many people you've heard of that actually called a talent agency and pretended to be his own manager? And once he was given an opportunity, he hasn't looked back.

9) His characters are totally opposite of who he really is.

Shia is something of a peverted, somewhat lost, bad-assed, foul-mouthed, smart-alecky little boy who really, really needs a spanking in real life. LOL But the characters that he plays are these good, wholesome boys from these solid middle-class families. I'd like to think that he plays these roles because he secretly wishes that his own childhood truth could have been closer to his film-making reality.

10) He's not afraid to be different.

He's done different kinds of work, which is why he's so popular. I hope that he will continue to do dark characters and independent films, which will further exercise and add depth to his acting range.

Shia Labeouf is a rising star that will only get better with time. The only person that has the power to stop his ascent is himself. I know what it is like having to overcome tremendous obstacles in order to succeed, so I wish him the best in all of his future endeavors.

Shia's Wiki Page

Jon & Kate Dissipate

2009-06-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Whoops! There goes the money! Well, I hope she invested well...............

"TLC Puts 'Jon & Kate' On Hiatus"

Ten Things Married Women REALLY Wished Their Husbands Knew

2009-06-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

1. We LOVE spending time with you. We love going places with you even more. And after being married to you for quite a while, we really don't care where you are taking us. It could be to the junk yard to find a cheap part for your car, and maybe a quick bite to eat at a fast-food joint. Yes, you can probably do that by yourself, or bring one of your boys along. But merely asking us to come along for the ride, despite your other options, shows us that you understand how much we need time with you, and are at least making an effort to spend some with us. (And, it also tells us that you still like spending time with "your girl.").

2. Letting us drive your ultra-cool "whip" (your ride) for a day? Awesome! Pre-setting a driver's seat position in the ride just for your wife? Ultra awesome!

3. Showing random acts of tenderness and kindness to the little ones really turns us on. An example? Unexpectedly cutting a too-big piece of steak that your overly-excited seven-year old asked for at the buffet restaurant into bite-sized pieces so that he or she can eat it. HOT.

4. Spending time with your kids, period, means a lot to us.

5. We understand that you need a break from it all, and we really don't mind you spending time with "the boys." Calling us when you know that it's getting late, not snapping at the kids or your wife, better still.......actually answering the phone when they call just to find out where you are is a plus. We don't want to spoil your fun. We don't want to bust your balls. We just miss you, that's all!

6. We love it when you help out with household chores and dinner. Every wife that has been blessed with a husband considerate enough to do this should work on making sure that she is not being overly critical of his efforts. All that should matter is that the kids are healthy and happy. That is the most important thing.

7. We love it when you eat everything that we've cooked and/or brought home to eat. LOL And we love knowing that we are able to take care of you in that way.

8. Your presence is important. Even if you feel that you are not the bravest man in the world, simply being there makes others think twice about invading your territory.

9. We appreciate your support. Whether its encouraging the kids when they are doing well in school, showing a slight interest in your wife's new hobby, encouraging her to go for that promotion at work (and convincing her that she can do it), taking the time to explain why you think a potential decision your wife or one of your kids are thinking of making may or may not be best for them, or jumping in the trenches along with your family while they are experiencing some of life's most trying of storms; just knowing that you care is such a blessing. Your validation gives us the courage to press on. Husbands and fathers are oftentimes the greatest cheerleaders.

10. Thanks for praying for us. GOD HEARS YOUR PRAYERS!

2009-06-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much, Big Mike and Rhapsody, for the lovely comments you left in response to my last blog. Sorry everyone that's interested; I haven't been updating lately because I have been so BUSY. It's summertime, you know! I still have to upload pictures of the truck, the graduation pictures, and some photos I took of me wearing my hair in various Bantu knot styles. LOL We are also getting ready to host my mother and sister-in-law; they will be here visiting with us for the 4th.

I am planning to go to New Orleans soon. Every time I tried to go sooner, something always came up. But I am determined to go this time. I really want to see how much progress has been made in the nearly four years since Katrina, if any, visit my brother and his family, and enjoy some of that good old New Orleans food (I am DYING for some beignets and cafe au lait! LOL). I have been keeping up with events there through the internet news sites for that area, but I'd like to see what's really going on with my own eyes. I also want to pass through Thibodeaux, La., to visit one of my uncles. He has suffered a bad fall, and had to have a shunt placed in his head to drain fluid from his brain, and had a pacemaker put in to help his heart out. He has been like a father to me, and he and my aunt are one of the only examples I had growing up of a happy, stable marriage. I owe him much.

Well, I am going to eat some of my dinner: baked tilapia, rice and seasoned broccoli. Then I'm going to take that ride down south to visit my mom. Will probably write another post tonight or tomorrow, my list of the Ten Things Married Women Wished Their Husbands Knew. It's hilarious, I promise! Enjoy the rest of your evening, everyone!

CAUTION: LONG ENTRY! (BUT YOU MIGHT LEARN SOMETHING BY READING IT)

2009-05-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

I know that by publishing this entry, I am running the risk of sounding very dumb. But it's okay, because none of us know everything.

I love the scene in the movie "Last Holiday," with Queen Latifah, when the weaselly doctor tried to deliver her "death" sentence. He was clearly afraid of the "big, black, angry woman" that had him cornered in the office. He had to bring a taller, whiter doctor in to try and calm her down and protect him, so that he could feel safe. I don't know whose idea it was to put that scene in there, but it was hilarious, right on point, and unfortunately, happens too often in real life.

I am 34 years old, and this is my very first time experiencing a lot of things. I did manage to buy a house in New Orleans (HUD home, and I sold it a year before Katrina hit), but NEVER lived in a subdivision. The neighborhood that I grew up in, as well as the one we settled into as adults was far from safe. This is my first time ever buying 2 good, reliable, fully insured vehicles. I never had my own car until my feet touched soil here in Houston. I drove cars, but they either belonged to my husband (or someone else), or they were in such bad shape that they were barely reliable. And all that we were able to afford was collision insurance for the beaters, in which the premium cost about as much as the price I am paying now for full coverage insurance! (This was because insurance fraud was so prevalent in Louisiana, the cost of insurance was astronomical. Many of us could not afford to own a car.) My children are not only bussed to and from school, but picked up right in front of the door! We rode public transit to school as kids. Imagine how hard that was while living in the inner city. As a matter of fact, I rode the bus until I was well into my thirties.

I know this sounds crazy to most of you. I am painfully aware that these are things that many people take for granted. Every day I am constantly reminded of just how poor I was. And even though my husband and I have been financially blessed tremendously these past few years, we are still trying to catch up. This is why you almost never see me bragging about anything that we have. This is a humbling experience, to say the least. There is so much that we just don't know about money. And there are people out here who have no time or patience to bring "grown folks" up to speed.

Getting back to what this entry is all about. I never had full-coverage insurance on a car. When I was involved in an accident before, (or if the car we bought already came with significant problems), and since collision only covers the other drivers' damages, I had to pay out-of-pocket for repairs, which was always next to impossible for me to pay. Hence, driving beaters most of my life. I was recently involved in a very minor at-fault accident. I backed into a fire hydrant, and although no damage was done to the hydrant, I ripped my rear passenger-side tire, and put a deep dent in the rear door. My tires are fully insured (thank God for Discount Tire!), so I had the tire replaced free of charge. I called my insurance company and reported the accident, and they assured me that the repairs are covered. All I need to do is pay a small deductible, and my car will be good as new.

As you know, if there is a report of an accident on your insurance policy, your insurance rate goes up. So I asked them how much did they think the rate would be, if it would go up at all, and they told me that they did not have that information available at this time. I found it ironic that they wouldn't have that information right off. And they were not able to give me straight answers to my questions. So I kept calling to find out if anyone could answer my questions for me. Because I didn't have the information I needed, I tried to cancel the accident report, thinking that if I went ahead and paid to have the damages fixed myself, then my insurance premium wouldn't go up. So I canceled the appointment to bring my car in for repairs, and went looking for my own estimates. (Chalk this up to ignorance on my part. I didn't know.)

My husband and I are out there looking for estimates, and though we were able to find a price that was reasonable, the experience was less than satisfactory. The shops we went to had more cars to repair than workers to fix them. I was looking at about a week-long wait for my car if I paid to have it fixed myself, while the insurance company promised 24 to 48 hours max.

I called the insurance company one more time to ask questions. I needed to know what to do, because I have to make arrangements for being without my car for a couple of days. Instead of my agent answering the phone, a lady that works for him answered. She gave me the same run-around all of the other agents (at least 4 of them) gave me. I still could not get a straight answer, so I asked her to just explain to me what she said again in plain English, because I still didn't understand. She nearly had a mental breakdown because I was asking her for clarification. She, clearly irritated by me, abruptly ends the conversation (she thought that I was being "argumentative"; folks love using that word to describe us), and yells at me to "Talk to Mike! Talk to Mike!" (my insurance agent).

When Mike finally gets to the phone, I explained to him that all I wanted was a straight answer to my questions, and he gave them to me. He told me that once the accident is recorded to the insurance company, it cannot be removed or canceled. He told me not to pay to have the car repaired out of pocket, that it would be best for me to let the insurance company handle the repairs, because this is what I am paying the premiums for. He also told me that my insurance rate will go up, but since the company is connected to a network of providers, when it's time to renew the policy, the company will help find one that will provide the coverage that I need, at a price that I can afford.

I could go on and on about how unprofessional the lady was, or say something like "No one forced her to take that job" or "How dare she get upset because I asked her to do her job!" But I'm not. As much as I wanted to, I couldn't stay angry. Besides, I had gotten the answer I needed.

One of my supervisors had written a letter to me, telling me that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. Tell that to the people out here who aren't willing to help you, who are too impatient, who have their own preconceived ideas about you, who "know all about you" before they even take the time to get to know you. I am acutely aware of people who want to help, and people who are just at work for a check, and nothing more. I have to push harder than anyone else to get what I need because of my ignorance, and frankly I am tired of having to fight with people because they can't handle being challenged just a little bit.

Even though I had gotten the information I needed, I didn't feel empowered in this experience at all. I didn't feel strong. I felt weak. And stupid. And dumb. Alas, it is a feeling that I am just going to have to get accustomed to. I am never going to stop asking questions, asking for help, asking for more time to learn and get things right. I don't want to go through life acting like I know something (or everything) when I really don't. And I may not know now, but ask me again the second or third time around, and if I still don't know, I'll find someone that does. And I'll be sure that it's someone that doesn't mind taking the time to "break it down" for you.

LIFE

2009-05-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

My husband and I bought a new truck this week. It's a 2006 Majestic Blue Nissan Titan 4x4 with chrome detailing. It's beautiful, but BIG. We needed the truck to fit the needs of our family, and to sit high enough off the ground to drive through Houston's flood waters. We are very pleased with the purchase.

I gave it a spin while taking the girls and a friend of Nicolette's out to celebrate her birthday yesterday. They had fun. We saw the movie "Monsters vs. Aliens" in 3-D (pretty funny movie!), and went to dinner at Chili's. I am finding that their $7 menu is, well, quite crappy, except for the Old Timer hamburger, which is too big for me to eat. We would have done better going to a fast-food restaurant, or IHOP. Anyway, the truck rides well, and the girls love it. You ought to see my husband. He's just like a kid who just received his very first red wagon. LOL

We are going to Mississippi this weekend to attend my sister-in-law's graduation from Alcorn State University. The girls and I all have beautiful sundresses to wear, because it's going to be HOT out there (they are going to have a family barbecue and seafood boil after the commencements). We won't have to be back home until Monday. I plan on getting some much-needed sleep during down-time, because we have to leave Friday night right after getting off work, and attending the ceremony Saturday morning at 8 AM. That leaves us very little time to rest, and I am talking about trying to do the girl's hair tonight. I have too much to do, and not enough time to do it. I had to run some errands for mom, who lives in south Houston yesterday before taking the girls out. I'm not tired yet, but winding down fast.

I received my T.C.E.L.O.S.E. certification last week. I am officially state-certified as a Telecommunications Operator. That document gives me the ability to work ANYWHERE in the state of Texas under that classification. It will come in handy in the event that I may ever have to evacuate again because of a catastrophic hurricane or other probable disaster. Let's hope that won't be necessary.

One of my classmates was fired a couple of weeks ago. She was always calling out sick, among other things. They told her that she wasn't "a good fit." I hate hearing about anybody losing their job, especially in this tough economy. Another bad thing to come about her release is that the new people, and that includes me, will have to fill in as a replacement for her until another operator is hired. I am already scheduled to work nights the last week of this month. Oh, well, at least I will be home for Memorial Day. Plus, while working, I will earn DOUBLE time and a half. It's just a lot harder to concentrate on your work when you are fighting sleep. I am going to have to work on a sleep schedule, and stick to it, when having to work nights, so that I will be alert.

2 BLOGS IN ONE DAY: PART 2

2009-04-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

The girls have exactly 30 more days to go before school ends! I think Angela may have to go to summer school. It's fine; Nicolette had to go to summer school, and she was also retained. It just takes some kids longer. Angela will get it, just like Nicolette did. I am not worried.

I lucked up with some great off days this month. Next month, not so great, but at least I can use those middle-of-the-week days to check up on Mom a lot more. It would really help me a great deal if she were able to move up here where we are, but I think that another major move might do her in (this is her third move in three years; if she moves up this way, it will be her fourth). She is going to be 62 this year, and her health is steadily deteriorating. I don't know what else I can do; she's soooooooo stubborn and set in her ways! God help me!

So far, so good on the job. We are busy, but it's a steady busy. The people yell at you, are sometimes uncooperative and hysterical, but that's part of the job. There are worse things I could be experiencing, like working outside in the elements, or worse yet, in a dirty, dusty warehouse, unloading trucks, hauling pallets full of merchandise that are six, sometimes seven times my own weight, sweating like a horse with calloused hands and hurting feet, stocking store shelves, with no end to the hard labor in sight. For someone who only has a high school diploma, I am doing pretty good, and getting paid pretty well to do it. I am blessed, and can't complain at all. My quality averages about 99%, but I am trying to get that 100%! I'm working on it.............

The church we attend wants to build a new building. They pastor and the leadership tried to bring this to the attention of the congregation last year, with minimal success and resulting opposition. This time, they went about this the right way, with a proper presentation, and stressed the fact that they need every member's involvement. They took the time to tell us why they needed the new building, and what they plan to do in it once it is built. I am definitely interested in becoming involved in this undertaking. I will update the progress of this endeavor in future posts. The different church ministries have been challenged to fast one day a week for the month of May. Matthew and I are part of the marrieds ministry, so we will be fasting on Tuesdays. I already know what I will be giving up: the computer! It's going to be HARD, though (I LOVE my laptop! LOL), but it's only one night a week! I can manage.

The girls were SO pretty Easter Sunday! I have to upload the pictures that we took of them in their Sunday best. I wasn't too shabby myself..........stay tuned........

2 BLOGS IN ONE DAY: PART 1

2009-04-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

These are 25 things I wish I knew when I was younger, but am so glad I know now. I will teach these to my kids, and look forward to learning even more things in the future:

1. Marriage is more than just saying "i do."

2. How credit works.

3. Time management.

4. The importance of good nutrition, and stressing how bad candy REALLY is for you.

5. Value, worth and virtue aren't cheap.

6. NEVER judge a book by its cover.

7. Yes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression, but if someone is gracious enough to give you ANOTHER chance, don't take it and that person for granted. Use this opportunity to prove yourself worthy of their generosity.

8. NOBODY likes a smart ass. Even worse, a smart-ass, bigoted, loudmouthed blowhard.

9. Work hard long enough, and eventually you will begin to see the fruit of your labor.

10. Reading is fundamental.

11. When you need one bad enough, there's no such thing as a job that's "beneath" you.

12. If you hear whispers when you walk into a room, it doesn't always mean that they are talking about you. Sometimes, it means that the people respect you enough so that you wouldn't have to hear the awful things they are saying.

13. And if they are talking about you, if they're not grown enough to tell you to your face, it's foolishness. Stop dwelling on it and move on!

14. If a person doesn't like you; better yet, if they hate you but don't even know you, it's not your problem, it's theirs. Don't even entertain that mess. Move on with your life.

15. Credit woes are easy to get into, and hell to get out. But there are better options available to you other than bankruptcy. The key is not seeking the easy way out. Pay what you owe, and once you are financially free, be determined never to get yourself in that kind of situation again.

16. When you have been given a second chance at life, a clean slate, a fresh start, strive to be better, do better, and learn more than you ever have before. Be grateful for another chance at life, and make that second time around count.

17. Maintain balance to your life.

18. Time with family is important, but you need time for yourself, too.

19. You don't need a lot of money or a lot of things to be happy. True happiness cannot be bought with money.

20. When you like yourself, others will too.

21. No matter how rocky your relationship is with her, love and honor your mother. After all, she's the reason that you're here, so she can't be all that bad.

22. You will only get out of a relationship what you put into it. If you sow negativity and strife, that is what you will get in return. But if you sow, love, friendship, peace, support, encouragement.........

23. Patience is a VIRTUE. (It would do you well to develop some!)

24. Love and trust aren't guaranteed actions, but it's worth taking the risk.

25. Get to know God for yourself. Every person's relationship with Him is unique. Develop your own custom-made affiliation with the Most High!

LIFE

2009-03-31T06:54:00.000-07:00

I finished my Easter shopping. You know, as long as I've been living here, no one's even bothered to tell me that Burlington Coat Factory has layaway! I found out yesterday, when I was getting ready to plunk down nearly $200 on Easter dresses and accessories (and that was just for the girls), when the sales clerk informed me! I really think that's kind of sad when people withhold information like that from you, especially when they know darned well that you are struggling to care for three growing girls! Well, whatever; the Lord always provides what we need, anyway. I was able to set aside some really beautiful dresses for my daughters, plus one dress for me! I wasn't going to buy myself anything, because I really wanted the girls to have new dresses, and I always put something together from my closet every year. But it will be nice to wear a beautiful Easter outfit for the first time in years!

I asked my husband if he would like me to buy him a suit. He told me that he will buy one himself, if he chooses to get one. I'll keep you posted on that! LOL He may not want me involved in the suit purchase, but that doesn't mean that I can't buy him other things.........

PUNKIN PASSED THE READING TAKS TEST!!!!!!!!!! I am SO proud, because I know how hard everyone has worked to help her pass!

I have been taking my vitamins faithfully, and also added a cranberry (for the urinary tract) and a stress formula (vitamin B and zinc) supplement. I must say, I haven't felt this good in a long, long time, especially during my menstrual cycle. I am used to having 2 good weeks in a month, and 2 very trying weeks, where my hormones are going haywire. But this month, since taking the supplements, I've only had about 3 cranky days! That's awesome! I'll take three days over two weeks anytime! Even the symptoms, such as the bloating, the fatigue, and the cramps, seemed to have diminished! I'm aware of the fact that doctors are working overtime telling people that vitamins don't work, because people aren't scheduling appointments with them as much as they used to. But I am swearing by them; these supplements work for me!

I have a hair appointment this evening, and I have to get my vehicle inspected. I may have to run errands for my mom, too, but she told me that she may not be home today (she has a doctor's appointment). I cooked enough dinner to last my family a week, so today is pretty much mine to do what I want. Good deal, huh?

SPRING BREAK

2009-03-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

The girls are out for a week, and I am scrambling to find activities for them while they are out. I am spending my off days with them, and they will probably stay with their grandmother for a few days. I also want the little one to work on her math and reading more, so I have to line assignments up for her to do.

My "Punkin"

We are going shopping today. I want to get a head start on the girls' Easter dresses.

Matthew bought a new game for Maya's Nintendo DS. They have been playing with it all week.

So far, so good at my new job. I am being tested, which is to be expected in every new environment, but I am mature enough now to take it all in stride. I have noticed a significant change in my overall health since starting there. I had suffered with bad headaches the entire time that I was working at the airport. That's two years. I never had migraines before. I don't know if it was the proximity of the computer monitors in front of our faces, the cramped office space, my dental issues or what, but it was awful. I always had to wear my glasses, because I thought maybe that was the problem, and wearing them did lessen the pain, but not by much. And I always had to pop a few Advil to get through the day. Now, I rarely, if ever, have to wear my glasses, and I cannot recall the last time I've had a headache, or had to take any Advil.

I also started taking multivitamins on a regular basis,

and noticed a marked improvement in my overall mood and feelings of well-being. Strange, though.

I am planning to start working out in the gym there sometime next month. My goal is to get in there, do what I have to do, and get out. LOL So I am casing the place to try and find the best time for me to utilize the facility in peace. I really don't want to work out after I get off, because I am going to have such a hard time getting to sleep when I get home. Oh, and since working mornings for all of those months, I cannot even stay up longer than 2 AM anymore! I wonder if this means that I will have to stop calling myself a "night owl?" LOL

We must pray for our country, and our leaders, that they will make wise decisions for American citizens, and not just for this generation, but for the future generations. There are a lot of things happening, a lot of decisions being made, that are sitting heavy on my heart, because I know that though these policies seem helpful now, those that come after us will eventually have to foot the bill for all of this, and the price is staggering. Only time will tell us if all of these radical changes really produced the results that were promised.

SORELY MISSED............

2009-03-07T09:33:00.000-08:00

My husband told me that our pastor in New Orleans lost his grandson in a car accident this week. He was only 27 years old.

One of my ex co-workers from the airport told me that one of the male co-workers just lost his WIFE. Mind you, she was much, much younger than he was.

And I learned that my favorite gospel singers, Deitrick Haddon and his wife, Damita, have finally accepted the awesome challenge of pastoring their mom and pop's church in Detroit, MI. I was wondering what was going on with them, because Deitrick mentioned that a music video was supposed to be coming out for one of his songs from his newest release, "Revealed", and we have been patiently waiting for it. I wish them well, but I am going to miss his music. He is, in my opinion, one of the best gospel music artists out here, that hardly anyone knows. Well, I guess I am just going to have to play all of his old stuff (Pops and I have ALL of their CD's, no bootlegs!). I'm gonna miss y'all, my brother and sister in Christ.

Life is precious, and short. And when God says it's time, it's time.

LIFE

2009-02-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

I worked some overtime Thursday morning, about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Big whoop. They were tickled because I returned their phone call while I was still kind of sleepy. LOL I earned an additional half-hour of overtime that same evening during my quality assurance review for January. My overall average is a 99.42. Not too bad for someone just starting out.

My co-workers are planning an upcoming barbecue next month, and everyone has to bring a dish. I told them some things that I am good at making, so all they need to do is tell me what they want me to bring. I am also good at donating money. LOL

What I like most about my new job is that I get to watch all of the Law and Order shows, the old ones on TNT and the new ones on NBC! The doozy is having to stay on the line with the psych patients.......and using translators during 911 emergency calls. Other than that, so far, so good.

I have a hair appointment on Tuesday! My locks really needs some help! LOL

I still haven't had the chance to replace our wedding rings yet.....well, sort of. I bought a 14 kt white gold and diamond set on e-bay for $100. It's small and dainty, just like the bridal set Pops bought me all those years ago, except that his was yellow gold. I am going to buy an anniversary band to go with it, so those will be my "work" rings. I am still going to buy a matching set for us, for special occasions (vacations and get-togethers with the family members). It's insane the kind of deals that can be had on e-bay for wedding rings! Either folks are really hurting for cash, divorced or divorcing, or just wasteful. There was a lady who was trying to sell a 3/4 kt princess-cut diamond 14 kt gold ring with a baguette and round diamond wrap, purchased in 2000 for $2500, recently appraised for $665, for $300! That ring is BEAUTIFUL, and something that I would probably never be able to afford otherwise. I'm sorry, but unless I was involved in a really bad breakup or something, there's just some things I wouldn't sell. I tried to get in on the action while other yahoos were asking her all kinds of (what I thought were) silly questions, but someone outbid me on it. I hope whoever it is gets it, but if she winds up re-listing it, they might not be so lucky next time.

That's like the laptop Pops just bought for himself from a pawn shop. Gently used, it has more disk space on it than mine had new! There's nothing wrong with the laptop. I just don't understand why someone would have wanted to pawn it.

I still haven't filed my taxes yet. Louisiana claims that I owe them about $170 dollars in back taxes from 2004. Once I pay them, then I will file.

Angela had gotten in trouble at school, and I had to meet with her principal yesterday morning. While I was waiting in the office, a teacher brought in this little boy who was covered in bruises from the neck down. He had no bruises on his arms, face, or legs, so unless you were really paying attention (the teacher must have noticed them while she was helping him or something), you wouldn't have seen them. I was curious as how they were going to go about handling that. I would be afraid to call his parents! One of my co-workers who used to work in the school system told me that the school is going to call Child Protection Services and have them get involved. Poor kid.

Angela, however, is fine. She drew a picture of a fully-clothed little girl in class. One of her 'friends' had taken the picture and drew some naked body parts on the girl. Angela was upset, and -without telling her teacher what happened-tried to throw the nasty picture away. Well, to make a long story short, Angela had gotten caught with the picture, both girls were in trouble, and they felt it necessary to call the parents in. Angela had the right motive, but she shouldn't have tried to take matters into her own hands. Besides, she shouldn't have been drawing in class!

BOY, 'SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE' MUST BE A REALLY GOOD MOVIE......

2009-02-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

I watched the Oscars last night at work (on the big screen, closed-captioned of course). Looks like it was a pretty good program. It appeared that the musical numbers were awesome, based on all of the visual fanfare, but my mom says that the musical numbers weren't all that great. I am online now trying to find out if anyone was able to upload them.

'Slumdog Millionaire' won many awards last night. My co-workers that have seen the movie said that it was pretty good. I'd like to check it out, but I barely have time to watch the movies that I already have! ('Fireproof' is still in the plastic, so is 'Crash' and 'Monster!' LOL).

I remember two instances, one where I listened to someone else's opinion about a movie, and another where I was swept away with cinematic history being made, and wound up watching two movies that greatly disturbed me.

The first movie was "Pulp Fiction." One of the ladies I worked with in New Orleans told me that the movie was really, really good. All of the reviewers were pretty hyped about it, so I rented it and watched it. First off, I don't know how any of these film critics were able to get past all of the violence long enough to grasp the concept of Quentin Tarantino's project. Then there was a scene in there with Ving Rhames and a cop that shocked and upset me, to say the least. Of course, NO ONE bothered to tell me anything about this! I promptly took that movie back to Blockbuster (or whatever place I rented it from) and asked for another movie to see. I hadn't watched that movie since.

The other one was 'Monster's Ball.' Now, don't get me wrong, I am still a fan of Halle's. But I believe that accepting that role showed just how much Halle is out of touch with African-American history, and the culture as a whole. She can make all of the arguments she wants to support her choice. Yes, she is probably seen as fearless, and a great actress, for not being afraid to show her "dark" side. But at what cost, Halle? There's not a day that goes by that I don't actually overhear or read some comment on the web that some filthy, greasy piece of a man who's not worth any one's salt makes about her concerning what he would do to her if he had the chance, or how delicious her tits look, or how he would 'tear that up.' And I am tired of having to hide the fact that this woman, who was in 'X-Men' and 'Catwoman', two movies that my girls love, by the way, would choose such a demeaning role to play. And when I say 'demeaning' I feel the need to explain what I mean. I am all for 'sex for sex's sake' in such a situation. I get that, okay? What I don't get is.....why, with this man, at that time? A woman who has lived in a small town all her life knows who she can and can't trust. For us, sometimes, that knowledge can become a matter of life or death! So the sex scene didn't make any sense at all to me. I find it hard to believe that a scenario like that would have happened, in LOUISIANA, in real life. Sorry, folks. And if it would have, trust me, it wouldn't have been consensual unless there was some money involved in the deal. I don't care HOW desperately these souls needed to be comforted. Trust me, this kind of stuff JUST DOESN'T HAPPEN. This.........this is the legacy that she claims she is 'working so hard' to leave for all of the aspiring African-American actresses that are coming behind her? This was a bad decision, in my opinion. I believe that she didn't think this over long enough. Great, she won the statue. But sometimes, winning isn't everything.

Soooooooo........anyone out here seen 'Slumdog Millionaire?' Is it a good movie? Is it 'safe?' LOL Let me know!

Adrian

I'S ON MY OWN, NAH!!!!! LOL

2009-02-13T09:13:00.000-08:00

I am FINALLY out of training. I start second shift today, but I am still off this weekend. I will have to work a 7-DAY stretch next week, and then my off days will be Mondays and Tuesdays. I am a floater, too, so I am sure that this schedule will change. For now, I am standing in for a lady who is on maternity leave.

So far, so good on my first day. I only made one mistake, but it wasn't a major one. It was fixable. One of my classmates just called me this morning telling me how horrible second shift was. I think that it was a matter of her being anxious and frustrated about being on her own than the actual workload itself. I like staying busy. It makes the time go by faster. I tried to reassure her by telling her that her first days are going to be trying, but that she will get better with time. She wants to sit next to me today. Go figure.

I paid all of my bills, but hardly have any money left over for "Valentine's Day." I didn't even have a chance to buy Valentines for the girls to trade in class today. I came home from work yesterday and went straight to bed! I was so TIRED! And, of course no one bothered to wake me, so oh, well........no Valentines!

Our anniversary is coming up, and I am in the process of trying to replace our wedding rings. We lost them in Katrina, and hadn't had a chance to replace them until now. We had one of those 3 pc. bridal sets. I was thinking about buying a more substantial set, but I remember the look on Pop's face when he gave me that tiny engagement ring years ago and asked me to marry him. And how torn he was one time when he threatened to break off the engagement, and I politely handed him his ring back and shut my door on him. He tried for an entire week to win me over and have me take him back! LOL And he never tried that again since!

Pops and I have been through a lot together. And neither of us are perfect. But for as long as I have known him, that man has ALWAYS loved me. And that has never changed. I am buying a smaller wedding ring set for the sentimental value more than anything else. He didn't have any money when he asked me to marry him. But he gave me all that he had that day, and the best that he was able to give. In my book, that is worth more than any amount of money, or any big diamond. I received the most valuable gift that any man could give a woman, and that is his heart. What a wonderful way to commemorate our 18 years together by remembering that it's not the size of the diamond on the engagement ring that matters most, but the significance of the promise to love behind it.

Adrian

MY THOUGHTS ON NADYA SULEMAN AND THE OCTUPLETS FIASCO:

2009-02-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

Clearly, this is a troubled, dysfunctional family. Nadya Suleman chose to add eight more newborns to her already large family with a man who she refuses to marry, despite all his desperate attempts to make an honest woman of her.

Then there is the grandma, Nadya's mother, who blasts her own daughter all over the world, claiming that she "isn't capable" as a mother, and who calls her actions "unconscionable." SHE brings the media into their tiny, unkempt home. Yet everyone is claiming that it's NADYA who wants attention?!?

I don't know who's worse, the media, the mother, or Nadya. But what I am concerned about most is the children. ALL of them. None of these incessant tongue-waggers are thinking about how all of this negative publicity is going to affect these kids. Are the six older children school age? Has anyone stopped to think about how their lives are going to change at school? Everyone in the city that they live in knows who they are, and now, the whole world knows. These children are being set up for a future full of constant teasing, taunts, and harassment from their peers, neighbors, namely anyone they will come in contact with in the future!

Does anyone even care, though? I don't know about anyone else, but I have had my fill of pompous, idiotic, arrogant, brainless, vain, heartless, callous, loud-mouthed media blowhards who are selfish and full of themselves! These egomaniacs are willing to crucify an entire brood of innocent children for the sake of ratings, for the right to play God, judge and jury for America, even though the citizens of this country never, to my knowledge, appointed that position to them.

I think that this entire situation should be handled much better than it is. Yes, this family is dysfunctional, but clearly they need HELP right now, not criticism and condemnation. The poor children involved in all of this need to be handled with great care and concern. For heaven's sake, they are not going to remain children forever! This country does have, and can offer the resources needed to help this family on ALL accounts. And we definitely don't need to do it for the mom or the grandmother, but for the sake of these unfortunate little children.

Adrian

2009-02-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

I was sick for about 2 days. A combination of stress, my cycle starting, and lack of rest did me in. But Matthew helped nurse me back to health, and I am feeling much better today.

My last day of training is supposed to be Tuesday. We will see, though. I think my supervisors feel that I need more work on the freeways. I am sitting with another lady while my trainer is out of town, and she is really helping me maneuver the maps that they gave me. I am not going to waste any of her efforts by forgetting what she showed me; I plan on studying more this weekend.

My husband finally finished building his computer. It has 320 G of space on the hard drive, and 2 g of memory. He also installed 4 fans inside of the console to keep the system cool. I am using it now; it runs pretty fast! He is in the process of building 2 more systems, one for the girls, and one for his friend. Several of his co-workers are hooking him up with software (Pops installed XP Pro on his computer; my laptop came with Windows Vista), motherboards, and operating systems to work with. We also have all of the monitors we need, thanks to his replacing the monitor we were using with a 17" flat screen, and my mom ditching hers for a flat screen also.

I have to do my taxes. I have been so busy that I haven't had any time to round up all of my documents. I will definitely have them done before April 15th, though.

Adrian

HERE IT IS.........

2009-02-02T08:44:00.001-08:00

Look at how thin it is!

Side view.....

A view of it opened up.........I wish I could show you how big it really is. I wanted one of those teeny netbooks that can fit in a purse, but he bought me this one instead, and I am SO glad he did!

15.4" screen! The girls and I watched a Muppet Movie on here yesterday in widescreen format, and it was AWESOME..........

This is actually the rear of the computer, where the hookups are.

I am just too outdone! LOL And it works GREAT, too! What a blessing!

Adrian

MY BELATED CHRISTMAS GIFT...........

2009-02-01T06:57:00.000-08:00

Is, in fact, what I am using right now! My wonderful husband bought me a LAPTOP COMPUTER!!!!!

I wanted one of those little tiny netbooks that can fit in your purse, but he wound up buying me a full-on notebook, with THE WORKS, and I LOVE it!!!!!

Now, I can start looking into what I want to earn my little "piece of paper" (my degree) in!

I will post pictures of my present soon (we're getting ready to go to church). This is, by far, one of the best Christmas gifts, no.......one of the best GIFTS I have ever received, because this is something that I really, really wanted. My husband knew that, and thought enough of me to buy it for me!

I know I say this a lot, but I'll say it again........I am a truly blessed woman!

Adrian

WELL, I SAID I WANTED A CHALLENGE........

2009-01-21T20:38:00.000-08:00

My training is going by REALLY fast. In just 2 short weeks, I will be on my own! All that my hands-on trainer is required to do is allow me an opportunity to become familiar with the telephone and computer system, learn some extra pointers and a few shortcuts. I am expected to continue studying the information in the training manual and learn how to enter locations into the system myself. We are being counted on to learn this job with the tools that have been provided to us, as well as being closely monitored by the supervisors on the call floor. But the guy that trained us did so thoroughly, and I was listening and learning the whole time, so I think I will be fine. I read and study every evening and during my breaks. It has been years since I have taken emergency calls, and I am a little rusty, but it's all coming back to me little by little.

One of my goals here is to become a trainer. Trainers at the call center have their own classification and pay grade, and are permanently assigned weekends off! I am watching one of the trainers in action (she is training one of my other classmates), and she is constantly on top of the new updates and changes to the system, and understands them better than the staff that implemented them! Yep, I intend to learn this job very well.

My trainer is a VERY nice lady. She is a pastor's wife! It is so nice to run across people who share the same values and belief systems! She has a VERY big family (one of those blended families), and is so proud of her children and husband. She and her entire family are very blessed. They know what it is to have and appreciate nice things. They work hard, and raised their children to. And she knows that she is nothing without Jesus, and is very dependent on Him, as I am. She prays and asks Him for success in all that she sets her hands to do, even on her job, like I do. And she knows that she needs help from the Lord, like I do. Relying on "your own" abilities in this day and age is a very foolish thing to do, and a very sure way to set yourself up for failure. It's called PRIDE. But the Lord promised in His word that if we humble ourselves, He will exalt us. And that's what I strive to do. I cannot do anything without Him. I know that wherever my feet land, His providence has sent me there. My mission is to please and serve Him, and hope that I will have completed whatever it is that He sent me there to do.

Anywhoo, that's a wrap as far as my training goes. I am nowhere out of the woods yet, but with His help, I know that I will do well.

The girls are finally up to date on their shots, thank the Lord!

My "new" clothes look awesome on me! LOL

My husband had a birthday this weekend, and we all had a blast helping him celebrate!

God Bless Obama and his family (Lord knows they need it)!

Adrian

PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS!

2009-01-12T17:07:00.001-08:00

I made a 96 on my skills test today! Tomorrow and Wednesday, I am doing a ride-along on a fire truck and an ambulance, and my hands-on training in the call center starts Thursday, 6 AM SHARP.

I missed the girls' appointment by a matter of minutes Friday due to traffic. I re-scheduled it for Thursday evening, and asked the school nurses and the principals for more time. I explained to them what is going on with me concerning my training and everything. I guess they granted me the extra time, because they didn't call me or Matthew to have the girls removed from school today.

Matthew's birthday is on the 13th, which also happens to be MLK weekend. He's not sure about his plans yet, but I definitely want to go and get my hair done and my eyebrows shaped. I want, and NEED, to look my best, you know. LOL

I have to pay all of my bills with this check, but we (all of the city workers) are also getting our holiday pay this period, which still makes for a nice chunk of change. I've noticed, though, that the more money I make, the more I am taxed. That sucks big time.

Adrian

2009 BEGINS

2009-01-06T21:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to anyone that's reading. I have been busy these past few days.

The girls started school Monday, which meant that since I am still in training, Angela has to catch the bus to school. I was a few minutes late Monday morning, because I wanted to male sure that she was okay, that she had gotten on the bus fine, and that her sisters were up along with her, helping her along and being ready to catch their own bus. This morning went really well; I had gotten to work on time, and the girls went to school without a hitch.

I scheduled the girl's doctor appointment to take the rest of their immunizations Friday evening. Earlier in the class, our trainers had kept us all the way to 4 PM, but lately, they have been letting us out earlier (one of our trainers have just been promoted, and it seems as if he has to catch up on some of his own work that has nothing to do with teaching us, LOL).

The trainers allowed us to pick our shift preferences this week, and naturally, I picked evenings, since that is what I am used to working. I thought that this was going to be my TRAINING shift, but it turns out that second shift will be my assignment once I finish hands-on. My TRAINING schedule will be days, 6 AM to 2:30 PM!!!! 4 WEEKS of torture, maybe longer, depending on how well I do...LOL Everywhere I work, people seem to like to put me on mornings. I am already praying and asking the Lord to help me stay alert and awake! LOL

Working the day shift also means that I have to be well-dressed EVERY DAY. Many high-profile people walk in and out of that call center daily. That is one of the reasons why I have always hated working days anywhere. Everyone is there, and you never know who you will run into. Since this call center is state-of-the-art, I have heard that the mayor and his directors, police and fire chiefs, representatives from government agencies and the media are constantly visiting there.

I did manage to go to the thrift store and Wal-Mart to purchase some professional attire. I wish I could show you what I've found! I purchased a few dress slacks, blazers, blouses, a 2-piece suit, and a couple of skirts. I also bought a black Liz Claiborne lambswool overcoat for $20!!!! I LOOOOOVE that coat! LOL I already have a ton of black shoes and pumps, but I bought a pair of "cheapie" brown pumps to wear with some of my slacks and cream-colored blouses. I know that I am not going to wear the brown shoes all of the time, so I didn't feel the need to invest real money into a pair. Everything fits perfectly and goes well together. God always makes provisions for me whenever He knows that I am in need of things, and always make sure that what I need is already there whenever I go where He sends me. Look, this year I am determined that I am going to strive to give God ALL the glory!!! I know doggone well that I probably wouldn't have found all of those nice things on my own. And the clothes are GOOD QUALITY clothes-wool, silk, and charmeuse fabrics. They will look great, and last me a long time if I take good care of them. And of course, you already know that I will; I just picked my "new" clothes up from the cleaners today.

Speaking of cleaners, when I picked up my clothing, the sales clerk neglected to mention (or didn't know) that one of my blazers was missing. When I returned to claim it, I found out that it wouldn't be ready until Friday. But when was she going to tell me? And if I didn't pay attention to the missing garment, how was I supposed to find out that the coat wasn't going to be ready until Friday? I doubted that they were going to call me. And they told me that the reason why the coat won't be ready until Friday is because that is the only day they clean that type of color (burgundy). But one of the blouses I had cleaned is burgundy, and it was ready today. Whatever.

Adrian

BACK FROM THE 'SIPP

2008-12-28T19:29:00.000-08:00

We're back from visiting the relatives in Mississippi! We did a LOT of eating and resting! LOL The girls came back home with a trunk full of goodies. I received quite a special gift myself! My sister-in-law purchased this Coach wallet for me:

Nice, isn't it?

I am going to have to buy her something nice, even if it means that I have to purchase her gift early. You know, I am good at buying things for myself, but when it comes to other people.......well, I suck. It isn't that I don't want to buy a nice gift for someone; I don't have a lot of girlfriends......I'm lying.....the ONLY "girlfriend" that I have is my mom. LOL Girlfriends can help each other with those kinds of things. Even sisters. She has a little sister whose very stylish, and that she hangs out with all of the time. I always try very hard, but I fail every time. But I am going to strive to be successful this year, even if I have to pull someone over and beg them to help me! This is the second time that she's bought me a nice gift, and this year, I aim to please!

I was charged with something major last year, fraudulently applying for government assistance. I didn't do this, of course, but set out to pay the state back what they said I owed them. This evening, when I cam home, I received a letter in the mail that found the charges made against me to be false. In other words, I am NOT GUILTY. HALLELUJAH! I will call them tomorrow and find out if this means that I don't have to pay the state anymore, and will I receive a refund for what I already paid them. Ain't God GOOD?!?

Adrian

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-24T22:53:00.001-08:00

MyHotComments

CHRISTMAS EVE!

2008-12-24T07:47:00.002-08:00

Well, we didn't get Friday off, but the supervisors did. That's okay, though. I am still off today and tomorrow. Since I am off Saturday and Sunday, Pops decided that it would be best for us to go to Mississippi this weekend. We are already packed, so we will be leaving out Friday evening once my class is over with. Plus, the girls and I will able to spend this Christmas with my mom. I am still waiting for some last-minute gifts to arrive in the mail today (Mom's and Angela's).

Matthew sure is glad that I am home! LOL We have been spending a lot of time together. He says that I will get my Christmas present from him after the New Year, but he still bought me a few treats (some goodies from Bath & Body Works) in the meantime. Of course, he won't tell me what my present is. LOL

Honestly, I really wasn't expecting a Christmas gift. I'm satisfied because we have everything we need. Besides, I already bought myself a couple of Christmas presents (my Dooney & Bourke purse, which is sitting in its dust bag in my closet, LOL, and a Sparkling White Diamonds perfume set). Still, it's nice to know that Matthew wants to surprise me.

The classes I took this week dealt with crisis intervention and handling calls from individuals with mental illnesses. We watched "A Beautiful Mind" (the movie about Professor John Nash, who is also schizophrenic), and talked about depression, bipolar disorder (accompanied by some clips from the film "Mr. Jones"), suicide and autism (the fastest-growing mental illness in the nation right now). We learned that there are a lot of famous people, even folks who serve as lawmakers, who suffer with some of these disorders. We also watched a film and talked about suicide. We even participated in role-playing, where one of us played a caller who wants to commit suicide, and our instructor was the call taker. I am quite familiar with the subject matter (mental illness runs in my family) so it was kind of like a refresher course for me, but still I never cease to be amazed.

Adrian

PRESENTS!!!

2008-12-20T08:16:00.000-08:00

The packages under the tree are steadily increasing! LOL I think I am going to have to let the tree skirt out a little more.

Mom needs me to go and run a few errands for her, so I am probably going to her house either today or tomorrow. It would be better tomorrow, because the traffic will be lighter.

As a Senior 911 Telecommunicator, I am taking some of the same classes that the new supervisors are taking. Well, remember when I told you that I will be off on Christmas Eve and Christmas? We have to return for a class the day after Christmas, and then be off again Saturday and Sunday. The sups are trying to find a way to convince the trainers to eliminate or reschedule that class so that we can have a 5 DAY holiday weekend! LOL If they are able to pull that rabbit out of the hat, wonderful! If not, it’s all good, because I am just grateful to be off for the holidays.

Matthew wanted to bring the girls to Mississippi this weekend, but none of us, him included, were ready to take a road trip this soon. We are probably going out there for Christmas, and just enjoy the ride and visit with his family for a day or so. If I am not off that Friday, we will have to leave on or before Christmas Eve, and return here Christmas Day. Either way it goes, Pops has to make it back here by Christmas, because he has to work Friday, too.

I also had to tie up some loose ends at the airport this week. It still had to do with that resignation/transfer issue, but its taken care of now. I am a stickler for following policies and procedures. I do not intend to violate anything that is on the books. That not only makes me look bad, but it can cause problems for the organizations that I am or were affiliated with. I know that there are a lot of people who could care less about protocol, but I have worked too hard and too darned long to build a reputable name for myself. I am determined to leave a good impression wherever I go, because I have learned the hard way that I never know when I will have to return somewhere, or if I will need someone from one of the organizations that I have worked for in the past to vouch for me. And it is much easier to return or to ask for a positive reference when you are remembered to be one that has left a place in good standing. It's better to know that you would gladly be welcomed back to an organization, then to have the organization feel that a huge weight has been lifted from their shoulders since you left, you know?

Punkin just woke up, so I am going to start fixing them some breakfast. I had taken some pictures of her in the Christmas play, but they came out so blurry that I felt that it would be a waste to post them. I wasn't sitting close enough to get a good picture.

FIRST DAY AT NEW JOB

2008-12-13T18:41:00.000-08:00

I am SOOOOOOOOO tired........my cycle started today, and it is kicking my butt! LOL

Well, the first few weeks are strictly class instruction. I will not start training on the floor until possibly the start of the New Year. We have to cover a lot of the emergency center's policies and procedures. We were given 2 HUGE binders to utilize and study from. I have homework, too, so I cannot take long with this entry......LOL

We will be off four days after our first week, Christmas Eve and Christmas, New Year's Day, MLK weekend, and Saturdays and Sundays until our entire training is completed (about 2 to 3 months). I know that we also have to receive a statewide emergency certification, and I will ask the trainer if that is part of what we are doing now, or will that come later.

We had taken another tour of the facility, and met some of our supervisors. I will start training with my supervisor at the end of this month.

Sorry if this entry is a little vague. I will have more later. I am just exhausted (my hormones are going haywire), and need to go and do my homework.

Adrian

SNOW, AND OUR CHRISTMAS TREE!

2008-12-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

It snowed yesterday! I was so excited! It started while I was going from store to store trying to find Matt his favorite multi-symptom medication (he's coming down with something, the poor darling! LOL). As night grew, the snow fell even heavier, covering the grass, the vehicles, and the rooftops. I stayed inside, but the girls went out and played in it for a little while.

The UPS people delivered our tree LATE in the evening, but we weren't angry at all! The girls were so happy, they were cheering and waving goodbye to the drivers as the truck drove off. You would think that Santa delivered the tree to us, the way those girls were cutting up! LOL

Poor Maya....she went to get her jacket and shoes so that she could go outside, and running inside the house, she tripped over a box, fell and hurt her legs. She was crying and humiliated, LOL, but once I gave her a couple of big hugs, cleaned her scratches and put band-aids on them, she was fine. I always will love that about Maya. She is the only one of my three girls that welcomes some "motherly comfort" when she hurts herself. My other two are just like me, tough as nails. LOL

Here's what's left of the snow this morning.....

Still some on the top of the car.....

A few flakes on the windshield......

Maya standing next to Nicolette's "snowman"....LOL

Here's the tree with the lights off.........

And with the lights on.

I wanted to make sure that the tree didn't look "dime store tacky." Here are a few of the "fancy" ornaments I put on the tree:

Beaded gold balls......

Bells.....

Teddy Bears......

And large gold balls.

It even looks great in the daytime!

Adrian

LIFE

2008-12-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

Tonight was Angela's school wide field trip: dinner at McDonald's. All of the kids were having a blast running around the restaurant, yelling and screaming, playing in the Play Place, being served and cleaned-up after by the teachers and principal, and knocking the Christmas tree down. LOL Some of the proceeds earned from tonight's event are going to be donated to the school. That's a pretty good idea for a fund raiser; I mean, what kid is going to turn down a meal at McDonalds? LOL

My husband told me what he wanted me to buy him for Christmas. He wants three collectible die-cast buses to go with his train set. I can only afford one at a time, LOL, but he says that's fine with him. My husband has been especially gracious and generous to us all year. He has become an excellent provider. If you ask me, he don't have to buy us another thing. I am going to make doggone sure that I get him what he asked me for, and then some.

Last night was my last day at the airport. I turned in my badge and everything. I have taken the rest of the week off to rest up and get the girls ready for the coming days (I have to report to work in the mornings my first week, which means that they MUST catch that bus to school!). After my first week, I will be off four more days, then Monday I will start training on the floor. Tomorrow I go downtown for the drug test, and I just have to report for duty Saturday morning, 7 AM sharp.

I already know that I will have to study this city's street maps and area zip codes VERY WELL, because the information that I will be entering into the system for the callers determines whether the fire trucks or EMT's arrive at the right house! I asked Matt about a key map (his job provided with him with one), and he told me to ask them if they would provide one for me; they are VERY expensive. If they aren't able to, I am definitely going to make that investment myself. I realize that I will be responsible for people's lives (I have done this kind of work before), and I want to be as efficient as possible. Dispatchers can be very, very mean if you send them a crazy call, and rightfully so, because any errors in these types of calls can cause the loss of a life. And these dispatchers aren't civilians (I was a civilian police dispatcher in New Orleans), they are ACTUAL firemen, EMT's, and police officers! I know how important this job is, and I am preparing myself mentally. I don't take the fact that these folks were willing to take a chance on hiring me lightly. I am very grateful. I will strive to do my best, as always.

Still waiting for my tree; UPS says that it will be here tomorrow. Can't wait!!!

Adrian

SUNDAY SCRIPTURES

2008-12-07T13:40:00.001-08:00

"Honor the LORD with your possessions,
And with the firstfruits of all your increase;" (Proverbs 3:9)

8 “ Will a man rob God?
Yet you have robbed Me!
But you say,

‘ In what way have we robbed You?’
In tithes and offerings.
9 You are cursed with a curse,
For you have robbed Me,
Even this whole nation.
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,

“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it.
11 “ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes,
So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground,
Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,”
Says the LORD of hosts;
12 And all nations will call you blessed,
For you will be a delightful land,”
Says the LORD of hosts. (Malachi 3:8-12)

14Do all things without grumbling and
faultfinding and complaining [[l]against God] and [m]questioning and doubting [among yourselves],

15That you may show yourselves to be blameless and guiltless, innocent and uncontaminated, children of God without blemish (faultless, unrebukable) in the midst of a crooked and wicked generation [spiritually perverted and perverse], among whom you are seen as bright lights (stars or beacons shining out clearly) in the [dark] world,

16Holding out [to it] and offering [to all men] the Word of Life: (Philippians 2:14-16)

Adrian

IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN WORSE, BUT IT WASN'T......PART 3

2008-12-05T17:05:00.000-08:00

I found out today that instead of turning in a resignation letter, my move was supposed to be treated as a transfer. OOPS. I didn't know; the people that I needed to ask were on Thanksgiving vacation! I asked one of my co-workers who transferred to another department within this division (and returned here), and she told me that I was supposed to turn one in. I wound up having to explain this to HR, who thakfully didn't make a big deal out of it at all. I will keep my tenure, my city information, and all of my benefits, and not lose them.

Also, the lady down at city hall who is scheduling my drug test called me after 5 PM, while I was at work. I tried to call her back with the number Pops gave me, but no one was in the office by the time I had called. I guess they will be calling me on Monday.

Another co-worker of mine, an operator, was offered the same job, but turned it down. He says that it is because they don't do deferred holidays there. I am already aware that as a floater, I won't be able to take off like I am able to do now. But when I first started working here, the same rules applied. If I make it the first year, I will be assigned my own set schedule, so I am not sweating it. He also said that he likes his co-workers, which is true. They all have a friendship-clique thing going on over there that's cute. Plus, he is going to apply for MY position once it becomes available. The emergency center didn't offer him as much money as they offered me, which is kind of funny. But I have a lot of experience, and a lot of skills under my belt that they need, and I am sure that definitely helped to boost my salary offer. (See what I have to endure when folks know my business? LOL)

Believe me, if they would have offered me what I thought I was going to be paid based on the pay grade that was listed, I would have stayed here. But their offer is significantly higher than I had expected, even what I had initially asked for! And it is just the right opportunity at the right time. And as with all things, I will give these people their money's worth; I will make sure that they won't regret hiring me! My co-worker says that he may follow me later on; We'll see about that........LOL

I really don't want to sound like I am some kind of gold-digging woman who will do anything for money, forsaking her kids and all. I am not. On the contrary, I am, in a way, doing this for them. I have always been the kind of person that does whatever I know I have to do, regardless of what anyone else thinks. I have learned how not to let opinions, uncertain relationships, and fear of the unknown stop me from reaching my goals. This is a trait that I am determined to model consistently for my daughters, because they will need to be this way when they are adults. And it helps that I have a husband who is very supportive. He is not the kind of man who says "go for it, babe!", then when times get tough, he turns around and blames me for everything that goes wrong! He digs in with me, and does whatever he needs to do to help me make it, and I love him for that. My mom is pretty supportive of me, too. It helps to have people who are in your corner, especially when you are as young as I am (I ain't even 35 yet!!!! LOL).

I just might ask to take off Monday. I just don't want to make this departure any harder on myself than it has to be. I just want to leave. QUIETLY.

Adrian

THAT WASN'T SO BAD.........I THINK (PART 2)

2008-12-05T08:08:00.000-08:00

Upon my return to work yesterday, I discovered that one of my supervisors had taken it upon himself to send an e-mail telling EVERYBODY that I was leaving. I guess he didn't speak to MY supervisor about how I wished that this would be handled before I left. It's okay, though, I won't be there much longer anyway. I know that my departure could have been handled better than that. I know that for a fact, because I have seen it happen many times. I would have liked to have had the opportunity to tell the co-workers MYSELF that I am leaving (I think that I am capable of handling that, don't you think?). Maybe expect to be treated with a little respect, and be able to leave with some dignity, without all of the questions and the "so-sorry-to-see-you-go" comments. But this is ME that we are talking about here. I guess different rules apply in my case. Then, he adds at the end of the message that "he knows that he speaks for everyone when he says that I will be missed." And just how, may I ask, does he know that? There may be some there that are glad that I am leaving, for all he knows. Whatever.

Well, at least I have been left with the choice not to disclose my future plans. I don't have a lot of friends there, anyway (for whatever reason; I guess I didn't try hard enough or something), so I don't feel comfortable sharing that kind of information with people I am not that close to.

I have an exit interview this afternoon with one of the HR ladies. Basically, they are going to be asking me questions, like "why I am leaving," and "did I like my boss" (LOL). My responses are supposed to help them come up with ways to improve the department, and help retain the workers that they have,and will have in the future. I am going to pray today that the Lord will help me with these responses. I usually don't offer any feedback, but I am hoping that my responses will help them make some much-needed improvements. My feedback, I have been told, will not get back to them, but I don't trust that. I am always aware of the need to be tactful and respectful, even in an environment that doesn't encourage it.

I realized that I really DO need this new job; I thought that I was paying once a month for medical insurance. I am paying biweekly for mine, and the girls' medical insurance!!! That's a little over $200 a month!!! Thank God for opportunities! I will be making enough at this new job to cover that plus any additional expenses that may occur.

The parent-teacher conference for Angela went well. Her teacher is concerned because Angela is not performing at her grade level. That didn't surprise me at all; none of my children were prepared, to say the least, for the school system that they have here. The New Orleans' school system was dysfunctional, and parents and teachers had to struggle to teach and learn in the barest of conditions. Though I was working at Wal-Mart then, I put all three of the girls in private school (before Katrina hit), because it was the only way to guarantee that they would get a decent education. Now, the schools that they are going to here in Houston try desperately to prepare these kids for college! Whenever my oldest daughter says things to me like she wants to continue her education, and even tells me what university she wants to go to, you know that they are doing something right here! Anyway, she wants to have Angela tested for dyslexia (Angela writes a lot of her letters and numbers backwards, and at her age, she should have stopped this by now), and I will have her screened for ADD and ADHD. Nicolette is ADD, and she has completed treatment and takes a mild medication during the school year that helps her to focus. She is doing swell now! The teacher also wants to schedule more tutoring for Angela, but I told her that if Angela is retained, that's fine; I am not about rushing a child to be and do things that she isn't ready for yet. But once we pinpoint any possible issues, or lack thereof, I know that Angela's ability to learn will improve tremendously.

She also told me how "cute" she thinks Angela is, which we already know, too. Angie is just ADORABLE, without even trying to be! LOL

I purchased a white, pre-lit Christmas tree (with the clear lights) from Wal-Mart for only $35!!! I LOOOOOOOOOOOVE WAL-MART!!!! I am so excited! I am going to decorate it with red and gold ornaments, a tree skirt, and a nice tree topper. There may not be any presents under it this year, but at least we will have a tree! LOL Of course, I will post a picture once I put it up, so you can see how pretty it is!

Adrian

WELL,THAT WASN'T SO BAD...........

2008-12-02T16:02:00.000-08:00

I turned in my two-weeks resignation letter yesterday. I waited until the right time, and stressed to my supervisor the need to "leave quietly." He understood completely (God bless older gentlemen!), and said that he wishes the same for himself when the time comes for him to leave (he is retiring soon). He promised me that if word gets out, it won't be from him. That's how I like to work. No muss, no fuss, no ruckus. I'm in, and then I'm out.

I am scheduled to be off the four days before my first day on the new job, start my five-day week of training there, and will be off four days afterward. This is excellent timing, because since my first week of training is in the morning, I will be able to attend all of Angela's upcoming Christmas performances! I am waiting for the call to go downtown and take my preliminary drug test.

Today was also my first dental appointment in 2 years. These people were EXTREMELY professional, which helped, because my teeth are in REALLY bad shape, and I am really self-conscious about it. I need major dental work done, y'all. MAJOR dental work. My dental insurance isn't too killing bad; It is covering 60% of the total cost! But there is still a lot of money that I will have to pay myself out-of-pocket. Since I am clearing my credit, I didn't want to open a credit account, even though I probably would be approved for it. I am going to save some of the money up, and use my income tax return to pay for the work. I will have to wait until next year, but at least I will be paying cash, and won't have to owe anyone ANYTHING. I went in, found out what I needed to have done, and the cost. All I have to do now is wait, and pray, and save, and anticipate the day that will soon come where I will be able to eat salads again.

In the meantime, I purchased some IMAKO cosmetic teeth. My mom told me about them. It is sort of like a "flipper" that you mold and clip to your own teeth, giving you the appearance of a beautiful smile for a really cheap price! I paid $40 for mine from AmeriMark . I cannot eat with them, but I CAN smile confidently and talk with them. No permanent fix, of course, but I can smile at my kids, husband, family and friends! That's all that they are for, anyway. What do you think?

They'll do until I can start my dental work. It's all good.

I have a parent-teacher conference with Angela's teacher tomorrow afternoon. ~SIGH~ I know that Angela is trying to catch up, but lately, I've had to call her teacher on sending home papers for me to sign, that were graded by other students in the class, that aren't checking Angela's paper correctly. This results in Angela having a lower grade recorded in the grade book than she should, which means a lower grade on her report card. Looks like I am going to have to start visiting Angela's school more frequently to find out what the hell is going on over there. Angela is so fun-loving and carefree, though. She doesn't give a whit, LOL. I am going to have to start urging her to be more dutiful, and care more, somehow. Wish me the best on that one.

Adrian

BLACK FRIDAY STEAL...I MEAN, DEAL!!!!! LOL

2008-11-28T13:39:00.001-08:00

Today, Matthew and I bought Maya her Nintendo DS!!!! Matthew was online looking up the Black Friday deals, and I asked him to look up video games on the Circuit City website. There, they had this Nintendo DS bundle for only $139!!!!

If I would have bought her the color that she wanted (crimson and black), and the game by themselves, it would have cost me $150, and that doesn't include tax, or a case! But this bundle includes the gaming device, one of the games she wanted (Brain Age), and a matching carrying case!!!! She was an easy sell on the pretty ice blue color (blue is her favorite color, anyway). We couldn't beat that deal, so we hurried on over and picked it up!

Maya is a VERY blessed little girl! :-)

Adrian

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-27T16:46:00.001-08:00

My Thanksgiving dinner is DELICIOUS! Spiral-sliced brown sugar and honey-glazed ham, baked macaroni, rice dressing, cornbread stuffing, green peas, 2 turkey roasts (I don't trust myself with a whole bird yet), a chocolate cake with cream-cheese frosting, and sweet potato pies!!!! MMMMMMMMM-MMMMMMMM! LOL

I shared some of my dinner with a male co-worker........he ate it ALL!!! LOL He's getting ready to make coffee to go with his desserts.

I had a chance to get my hair done (locs tightened, and my loctician gave me a "3-in-1" hairdo (double-strand twisted locs into a bun; The bun is one style, the double-strand twists is another, and my hair will be "crinkled" once I take the twists down ) and my eyebrows shaped this week, too! I'm looking GOOD............

And I made my decision about the job. I'm going to take it. I am in the process of trying to leave, so I will keep any readers updated on the details as I go along. I am hoping and praying that the transition will be a smooth one, without any confusion. But you know me........if they want to start some foolishness, bring it ON...............LOL

Adrian

DECISIONS, DECISIONS.............

2008-11-20T07:49:00.000-08:00

I realized that I haven't said much about my children lately. The title of this blog is "Diary Of A Young Black MOTHER"........so, here's a little update about them:

Nicolette told me a few days ago that she is interested in going to college, namely the University of Houston! I must say that I am quite proud, and very impressed. She hasn't quite figured out what she wants to do with her life yet (She said once that she is interested in becoming a police detective), but she has time to decide. I have begun praying and asking the Lord to help Matthew and I make this happen for her. This new attitude she has, I believe, can definitely be contributed to this new environment, and high-achieving school district that we are in.

Angela is doing better at school. She was having a tough time catching up in her studies, especially reading, but she has extended day for two days, plus she is involved in an extra-curricular activity (school choir) that helps boost her little self-esteem. I try to attend all of the open houses, reading/math nights, PTA meetings and workshops that the school has, to show the teachers that I am interested in her education. I also encourage her to read more, and she is checking out library books and reading aloud to her sisters and I. I find that when I attend these school functions, I am able to assess the teaching styles, and find out what issues need to be addressed as far as helping the teachers help my girls, and what I can do to help the teachers as much as I can. As a result, the teachers kind of go the extra mile with my kids, and treat them better. That definitely helps the girls do better in school, because they feel valued.

Maya is a hard worker when it comes to her school work. She was disappointed because she didn't make the honor roll (she struggles with math, just like I did), but she tries really hard to make a passing grade. All of her other grades are A's and B's. I am still working on getting her a Nintendo DS for Christmas. That is all that she has been asking me for, and I feel that she deserves it. But she knows that if the money isn't there for holiday time, I will get it for her as soon as I can.

The airport has decided that they aren't going to 10-hour shifts. Our department will remain at 8-hour shifts, but I still haven't ruled out the possibility of working at the HEC center yet. I have my husband's blessing. He says that he doesn't see a problem with taking advantage of an opportunity to better myself, and make more money, which will help me accomplish more things that I need and want to do. Some of those things are returning to school, getting physically fit again (I am not a big woman, praise the Lord, but I can still use regular exercise. There was a free gym at the call center where I used to work in New Orleans, that I used faithfully), and get some much-needed dental work done. My husband has a lot of confidence in my abilities. He knows that one of the joys of my life is working. I have a lot of energy, I work hard, and I care about everything I do . He supports me 100%. However, when I asked the girls what they thought after explaining to them what taking this new job would entail (less time at home for the first year, and more responsibility), they weren't too thrilled about the idea.

I started doing my own research on what it would be like to work at this place. A few years ago, there were some prominent news reports documenting some serious problems the employees were having at the call center, like equipment crashes, insufficient or short staffing, which caused a lot of forced overtime, and management issues. It seems to me that management issues are a city-wide problem here in Houston. A lot of these complications were brought about by change (in 2003-2004, all of the Houston emergency call centers were moved into this building; all departments (Police, Fire, EMS) under one roof), and the facilitation of the city's union contract. Since 2004, there were maybe three or four other articles written on the working conditions there, and even a city controller's report on how conditions have improved about 50% (in 2007), but nothing more recent.

I know that I will be in for a challenge if I decide to work there. To what extent, however, is not known. Plus, I calculated the "extra" money that I will have the potential to make (not counting the overtime), and it doesn't come out to very much. With the city-wide raise coming up soon, the annual salary comparison for my job and the HEC center position differ by only $600. Again, that's not counting the overtime. I guess the question is, do I really want to throw myself into a potentially stressful environment right now? Am I really that desperate for a "challenge?" I worked in a pressure-cooker situation like that before, and it took its toll on me. I am not so sure that I want to subject myself to that again. On the other hand, I will never know whether I can handle it, whether I will like it or not, or whether this is the place for me, if I don't try it. I am tempted to just go and give it a shot, and maybe ask for my old job back if the place isn't for me. But what if I can't return to my old job? Plus, Matthew says that they will be making some changes on HIS job, probably at the end of this year or the beginning of next year, that will definitely affect family life on the home front. There are too many questions that I have that I just don't have any answers for. I will have to take these concerns up with the recruiter/HEC supervisor before I make my decision. You would think that my answer would be simple, right?

Well, at least I have a week (I am off five days before Thanksgiving) to mull it over..............

Adrian

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS

2008-11-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

I do these posts every now and then. This is my first time, of course, attempting to do this on Blogger. I love plugging certain products that I am using, especially if they are economical and work much better than I expected them to. I am NOT getting paid for these! LOL I have run across quite a few winners lately. Here is my list:

1) Dove go fresh Energizing Body Mist

My favorite scent is the grapefruit and lemongrass. Lasts all day! I wish the deodorant worked as well. Everybody tells me that I smell like I am using something from Bath and Body Works! This spray sells out all of the time. Ladies, please think about me while you're out shopping, and before grabbing about three or four bottles.....LOL

2) Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Butter Range Products

I LOVE the Vitalizing Gel Body Oil and the Deep Conditioning Extra Rich Cream! They both have a light but SWEET buttery fragrance! The oil makes my legs look fabulously hydrated. Great for using after a bath or shower. A small investment, but well worth the price!

3)Always Maximum Protection Pantyliners

4) O.B. Tampons

VERY tiny and discreet, but this tampon delivers maximum protection!

5) ROMA laundry detergent

This product of Mexico smells WONDERFUL, is VERY inexpensive, and gets my clothes clean! This is the first powder detergent that I have EVER used that does what it says; I only need about a scoop and a half for a big load of laundry. Use any more, and those suds will be everywhere! 2 bags can fill one of your large detergent containers, and will last about a month and a half to two months! Also washes great in cold water!

I hope that you will enjoy using these products as much as I do!

Adrian

THE TOP 10 MOST IRRITATING PHRASES

2008-11-08T15:15:00.000-08:00

Oxford University compiled this list of the ten most irritating phrases being used today. These are some good choices, but I know that there are more out there that are equally as irritating. Here's the list, and I have added my choice at the end. Feel free to add some of yours!

The top ten most irritating phrases:

1 - At the end of the day
2 - Fairly unique
3 - I personally
4 - At this moment in time
5 - With all due respect
6 - Absolutely
7 - It's a nightmare
8 - Shouldn't of
9 - 24/7
10 - It's not rocket science

And my top irritating phrase is "My thing is..................." Different variations of this phrase ("but my thing is;" "and my thing is;" "See, my thing is;".....) are used mainly by extremely self-centered individuals who sincerely believe that their opinions are always welcome, valued, and relevant. Most of the time, of course, they're not, but this fact isn't enough stop these folks from sharing them with you, or anyone within earshot, because, quite frankly, it's "their thing", right? Their moment, their cause, their project, their feelings, their point of view, their demands, their issues..........and who wouldn't want to know what "their thing" is, right? Of course we do, because after all, it is "their" world!

Adrian

WEIGHING OPTIONS PART 2

2008-11-04T20:31:00.001-08:00

Today I went for my interview at the HEC center. I though that this was going to be merely a look-see, but I had taken a test, was involved in the question-and-answer process before a panel (which usually takes place during the final interview), and had taken a tour! I am so glad that I dressed well, and had gotten enough rest (I left work early last night so that I could rest up). They seemed pleased with me; I just went in as myself. I am finding that the older I get, the easier it is for me to speak my peace without being tactless or disrespectful, while at the same time garnering esteem.

That's one nice facility they have there! They have a workout gym, lockers, showers, 2 large break rooms, and the call center is divided into different sections. The firemen, fire and ambulance dispatchers, 911 operators and police dispatchers all have their own area. The seating positions and equipment is state-of-the-art. I am not interviewing for 911 dispatch (thank the Lord); if I am selected, I will be training for fire and ambulance dispatch. Coming in as a senior, I will not have to train as long as I had to train at the airport (the training coordinator estimated that my training will probably last about a month and a half). However, in the first year of my employment, I will be a "floater." This means that I will not have set off days or shifts until I complete my year and bid. She says that she needs people for evening and night shifts, and she will put me wherever she needs me. I think I can handle that. I work some nights now when people call in, and I need evenings, because of the kids. I am already on evening shift, so it shouldn't be a problem.

They have 5 different shifts to choose from, 3 regular and 2 swing. Only one of her swing shifts is 10-hour, with three days off. But I will not have to work that if I don't want to, once my year is up, which is good. I will have a choice. At the airport, everyone is going to ten-hour shifts whether they want to or not. There are no other options available to us.

I did mention already that the call center is literally minutes away from my house. I don't even have to get on the freeway and fight traffic to get there. This morning, I arrived to the center earlier than the coordinator did! LOL

I saw one of the ladies who went for the Stafford job. Her interview and testing was right after mine. I hope she did well.

I am not worried at all whether I will be selected or not. Like I said before, I am not in a bind; I already have a job. I just think that a change, a challenge, would be nice. I will be in a new environment learning new things. I have never done ambulance or fire dispatch before. She told me to give her a call in a few weeks to see what her status is; she is interviewing 14 people for the 4 positions she has available, and she wishes to make her selections by December 8th. If I am chosen, great; if not, that's fine, too. I have prayed about it, and it's in the Lord's hands. Wherever He leads me, if its to stay at the airport or embark on this new opportunity, I will be satisfied either way.

Adrian

WEIGHING OPTIONS

2008-10-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

The interview went very well. They are seriously considering hiring me, but the training coordinator is concerned about hiring me because of the distance that I would have to drive. I have thought about that, too, but here's the thing; if I stay where I am, my schedule will be 1:30 pm to 12 midnight, with probably Mon-Tue-Wed or a Tue-Wed-Thu off. Stafford PD is still on 8-hour shifts, but they will soon switch to 12-hours (7A-7P, and 7P-7A), with an option of a Sat-Sun-Mon, Sun-Mon-Tue, or Wed-Thu-Fri off. Either way it goes, I would still have a weekend day off, plus I would be off ALL DAY before having to return to work. And, I will be paid more. The only detail that I would have to iron out is making sure that the girls get to school on time in the mornings on the days that I am working. The two older girls don't have to be at school until 8:30, but the little one has to be there by 8, and will have to take the bus on those days. If I get a Wed-Thu-Fri, then Angela would only have to bus Monday and Tuesday mornings.

I also received a call from the City Of Houston. They are interested in interviewing me for an available position in the emergency communications center. I have an issue with the city to clear up first before she can run my background check, but she told me that she has a few more potential prospects. She gave me until Friday to take care of it, so that she can process all of us together.

Again, I must stress that there are no major problems where I work now. It's just that the new scheduling will be an issue for me. I am trying to work LESS hours, not more! And if I have to work more hours, that's fine, but it would be nice if the schedule was made well enough to accommodate everyone who works in the department, not just a few. I mean, what mother would want to get off at 12 midnight, when she has to get up at 5:30 AM? By the time those three days off finally roll around, I will be beat! I feel like I am always having to fight and battle to make sure that I am able to balance family and work life. I need to do both; dropping any of these obligations is not an option. My family is my priority. I came with them. LOL They didn't just "drop in" my life all of a sudden. And for anyone to insist that a decision must be made between family or work, to me, is irrational. So, here I am, yet again, trying hard to maintain balance.

Matthew came home early yesterday. We went and bought Nicolette a new bed (a full-size with a pillow top mattress!), and went to eat at Fuddruckers (a hamburger joint) with a friend of his, who also wound up staying with us until dusk (He had to leave for work before dinner was finished). I had a lot of fun yesterday, which is a luxury for me. I rarely have any downtime, and that is dangerous, because remaining in a constant state of purpose has the potential to cloud my judgement a lot of times. There are other reasons why I want to work somewhere else that has nothing to do with scheduling, and I cannot mention them here. I can say that I am determined to do my best at anything that is set before me. I am not a quitter, and I don't give up. I have grown up around people who were quitters, who became content with anything that was handed to them, and who easily made excuses for why their lives couldn't be any better. They didn't even try. I also had people in my life who wanted to do better, but just couldn't for reasons beyond their control. I know and believe that the ones who wanted desperately to have a better life but couldn't by no fault of their own (mental illnesses, physical handicaps,etc.) would have had one if there was an opportunity for them to do it. I am determined that as long as there is breath in my body, and my limbs are in use, that I will do the best that I can, and refuse to allow myself to make an excuse for why I shouldn't or can't to anything to better my life or myself.

Everyone doesn't think like that. There are those who see the results of integrity, but are not willing to do what it takes to acquire them. Instead of attempting to achieve a measure of integrity themselves, they band together to try and make life harder for people who have it.

Adrian

BUSY WEEK

2008-10-20T18:05:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning, I have a job interview. Yes, a job interview for a police telecommunicator position with the Stafford Police Department. I had taken the test for it Saturday morning, and passed with flying colors. No, I am NOT in trouble at my current job. LOL On the contrary, I am doing very well. I am in no hurry to move. I am just weighing other options. They are getting ready to make some changes here that may affect family life at home in a big way (10-hour shifts, etc.), so if there are opportunities to move to other environments that may offer better working conditions, I don't see anything wrong with taking a look at them.

I also have to take a flu shot on Friday. I missed both chances at the free ones they were giving out here (I was off on the days that they gave them), but now the city is offering all employees a $10 shot. I had to register for it and everything. Another task that has to be done before I have to go to work. Great. LOL Well, at least the interview is on my day off. And you already KNOW that "the Dooney" is going to show out Tuesday! LOL What's great is that I already have a cute pair of shoes that has the same colored top stitching as my purse does. The training coordinator told me to "dress for the part," so I will try to look my best!

I asked Matthew what he thought about all of this, and he just told me to go and see what the job was all about. My husband is SO supportive. LOL

I am also beginning the process of helping the girls at home get ready for the TAKS test. Angela's school sent home some reading and math workbooks, and I had to check textbooks out for Nicolette to bring home. I will work with Nicolette on my days off, and I will work with Angie on the weekends, before going to work. Angela is scheduled for after-school tutorials on my off days, plus she has choir rehearsal early Tuesday morning. I am also thinking about sending her to church Wednesday nights to sing with the youth choir! I don't want to overwork her, but I think that keeping her busy, especially in a constructive way, will help her in the long run.

I REALLY, REALLY need to visit my loctician again. So much has happened to everyone during and after Hurricane Ike, and many people are still playing catch-up. I called her not too long after the storm, and she didn't return my phone call. I began thinking that she didn't want me to be her customer anymore (you know how we tend to let our minds play tricks on us), when I spoke to the lady at my church who referred me to her. Sister Francis said that the loctician didn't return her phone calls for awhile, either, and when she finally did, she told her that she wasn't going to be able to schedule an appointment for her until November! And Sister Francis is one of her BEST customers! LOL I will call her again, probably tomorrow or Wednesday, and see if she is able to fit me in soon.

I have to wash the girls' hair, too. I have been doing Nicolette's hair every weekend, because her hair was falling out. Now it is growing back healthy and thick, but I am ashamed to admit that I haven't been taking as intense an interest in my other two daughter's hair. And Maya's hair REALLY needs some attention. She has been wearing that fro puff for awhile now, with no complaints. But I know that she would love for her hair to be washed and braided like her sister's too. Angela's hair is still easy to manage. She has baby-fine hair, and she is still young enough that her hair is in that manageable stage. I am really, really considering perming their hair, simply because it would be "easier" for me, but I know all too well how bad chemicals can be for our hair. I am trying to hang in there and resist temptation. LOL

I am cooking for Thanksgiving, even though I will be working this holiday. Matt's friends are already making plans to come down. I am glad, because we really need people to help us eat all of that food! LOL

I had a really, really rough week last week. Matthew was pretty much a part of the problem. But he and I have since made up. I can't stay mad at him; the man is just so SEXY.........LOL :-)

Adrian

SPLURGE

2008-10-15T10:27:00.001-07:00

Like it? I LOVE it!

Kinda nice..........

2008-10-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally have my blog set up the way I want it, for now. Blogger has more of a grown-up feel to it. Maybe that's what we need sometimes, to grow up with some things. LOL I just hope that I'm not out of my element here, and out of my league. I have heard that some members of Blogger can be treacherous.

Matthew is back on his regular schedule. Thank you, Jesus!

The girls had really, really good report cards this semester. I am so proud of them. I think its because they really like their schools, and they love this new school district, and this area. What a difference a new environment can make!

I will write more later. Have to go and get ready for work. Today's my Friday, though...YAAAAY!

END OF THE YEAR SAVING TIPS

2008-10-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

In two months, Christmas will be here. Many Americans are already experiencing some serious financial problems. Holidays can bring on additional stress-if you aren't prepared. Here are some of my bona fide end-of-the-year tips that can and will help save you money, and bring you some peace of mind:

1) Cook your own holiday meals, or host a "holiday potluck" at home if guest are coming. The latter guarantees that you will only have to be responsible for a few dishes yourself.

2) Clip coupons.

3) Watch the weekly sales. Buy meat and staples when they are sold at bargain prices, even if you don't need them at the moment. Stock your freezer and pantry, so when the "lean weeks" roll around, you'll have plenty of food in your own home to eat.

4) Be creative. Take advantage of recipes, and abandon conventionalism. Eat breakfast for dinner if all you have is eggs in the refrigerator and grits in the pantry. Who cares? It's still food!

5) Don't take unnecessary trips. Plan your grocery, laundry, errand-running days, etc. on the same day, if possible. Map out where you need to go. Bring a list and stick to it. This saves time, gas, and money. A triple benefit!

6) Bring your own lunch to work. Every day. Snacks too. Resist the urge to raid the snack machines and concessions, and you'll be surprised how much money you will save every month.

7) Stop smoking!

8) Prepare your kids to expect only one gift, or maybe even NO gifts, for Christmas. Save those lavish gifts for their birthdays. Remember, Christmas isn't their birthday, anyway. Does this work in my household? It definitely does. I have been doing this for a number of years, and the girls really don't mind, just as long as they are rewarded for their patience when the big days roll around!

9) Watch that bank account! Keep track of it online, and balance that checkbook!

10) Wash last season's winter clothes and wear them. Don't buy anymore clothes unless you really need to. Update your wardrobe with only a few pieces. Let most of what you wear come from what you already have. Bundle up in the winter months, and dress in layers. Wearing more than one shirt, or "layering" is "haute couture." LOL

11) Be wise when and if you have to purchase another car. If you haven't finished paying off the one you have, please don't buy another one yet. If you MUST buy another car, do your research. Figure out right now what you are able to afford (this figure includes taxes, title, license, insurance) and shouldn't go over 1/4 of your income. Yes, this means that you may not be able to buy that beautiful truck or that hot sports car. But the car you can afford is the one you really need. You don't want to purchase something that you will hate to use because the price you are paying for it stresses you out all of the time

12) Need a cell phone? Consider a pre-paid plan. Pre-paid phones today offer all the amenities of a plan phone (texting, media messaging, internet, unlimited night and weekends) without a contract. I had one for three years (and still have one; I replaced the phone I lost with a cheaper handset so that I could keep my old number), and it has served me well. These are really great for those of us who only need a phone for emergencies, to call close family members, and never use cell phones very much. My kids alsohave pre-paid phones. They know that the phones are to be used for emergencies only. So far, they are doing extremely well with them. I don't have to worry about them running up a $300 or $400 phone bill, because once those minutes are used up, that's it; no more phone until I am ready to buy more minutes! Which would you rather, a heart attack over a pricey bill, or a $25 loss?

13) Buy things that you will always need ( soap, shampoo, sanitary napkins and tampons, deodorant, etc.) in bulk, especially when they are on sale.

14) If you see something that you really like, buy it now, even if it isn't on sale. (This is in reference to clothing and shoes.) You probably have the money for it right now. It's foolish to say that you'll wait for it to go on sale, especially around the holidays, as if you were the only person looking at the same item in that size. You may pay a bit more, but at least you'll have yours.

15) Use those grocery store discount cards! Some offer up to 10 cents in savings at the pump (if they sell gasoline), and are even linked to other stores where you can use their cards to save money also!

16) If a grocery store TRIPLES coupons..............ah, you know where I am going with this one...LOL

17) Purchase generic brand food and prescriptions, if they are available. Many times, the generic brands taste and work as good as the brand name!

18) Don't be ashamed to shop at a "hood" grocery store; a lot of bargains are to be found if you are willing to humble yourself! Of course, go in the day time, be careful, and protect your belongings........LOL

19) Buy your house cleaners, paper and supplies at a Dollar General, Family Dollar or any dollar store.

20) Nix your obsession with designer clothing. If you MUST be a tag hag, shop around for bargains, and take advantage of sales. Go to outlet stores. Places like Kohl's, Ross, Stein Mart, Burlington Coat Factory, etc. sells designer clothes at bargain prices.

21) Toss your loose change in a jar, and use the coins for the kids' lunch money.

22) Do your own hair, feet and nails. Salons are a luxury; treat them as such.

23) Watch the movies and play the games that you already have at home. Share movies, music and games with family, friends, and co-workers (make sure they return your stuff! LOL)

24) Set the air conditioner to the highest possible comfortable setting. 78-80 still leaves your home pretty comfortable. Open windows and run the fans during the day. Turn on the air after 8 PM. Turn it off in the early morning hours.

25) Shower. Run water sparingly. Don't use the dishwasher.

26) If your kid has a PSP, a Game Boy, an X-Box, a PlayStation, and a Cube, why in the heck does he or she need a Nintendo DS Lite? Come on, people! Same goes for cell phones (I know some kids who are on their TENTH phone), i-pods, and other electronics. You are teaching your kids to be grossly unappreciative. Buy them some good books instead. Or a telescope. Or a chemistry set. Or an art/craft kit. You get the idea.

What end-of-the year tips do you have to share?

Adrian

DON'T HAVE A SUBJECT FOR THIS ENTRY (LOL)

2008-09-24T20:58:00.000-07:00

Pops and I had been involved in a bit of a spat (we're both tired and stressed from Ike); we didn't speak to each other for two days. Today, he came home with one of those "I-know-I-don't-say-it-often-but-I-love-you cards, and a dozen mauve-colored roses. Aren't they beautiful?

My husband sure knows how to treat a girl. LOL What I love about them is that this is one of the colors that I used for our wedding (cream and mauve). I didn't think he remembered!

I had taken care of Angela's school situation. For her safety (since I don't know who's reading this journal, you know what I'm saying?), I will not disclose the details. Let's just say that plan A is in place, and will do until I can work out a better plan B.

Adrian

ISSUES

2008-09-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

Pops is still working 12-hour shifts until further notice. This is a problem for me, because Angela gets out of school at 3 PM. She isn't bussed, and I will already be at work by the time she is dismissed. Matthew couldn't give me any information on how long he will be working like this, etc. I need to make arrangements, and I don't want to go to my supervisors without any concrete information. She's 8 years old, and too young to walk home, especially for such a long distance.

Some of the people at my church aren't faring to well. I offered my assistance to anyone who needs it, and I went to visit an older member at her home this morning. She didn't need anything but company and prayer. Some people I know are in good health, have all of the use of their limbs, all of their teeth, a job, medical insurance, live in a nice home, have a nice car and a beautiful family, and complain like the world is going to end. The lady I went to visit (Sister Moore) has all kind of health issues (diabetes, heart problems, pain in her legs, etc.), family issues (both of her daughters are in prison, so she is trying to raise the 5 grandsons alone), and was STILL able to smile, and praise the Lord, despite her circumstances! Ladies and gentlemen, that's the picture of true, God-given joy!

I am off tomorrow and Wednesday, thank you JESUS! The kids are out of school, too, until further notice. I am praying that Angela will be out of school until Matthew returns to his normal work schedule. That doesn't seem likely, though, since Matt says that they are expected to work like this for at least three months, or until they can bring all of the intersections up again.

Adrian

IKE PART 6: IT'S OVER!

2008-09-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

The power came on this morning! YAAAAAAAYYYYYYY!!!!!!! LOL

I am in the process of cleaning up. I have to pick up the tree branches and twigs in the back yard, put the trash out, wash the towels we used to soak up the water in the bedroom, and mop the floors. I already vacuumed the rug. I have to cook the meat that was potentially going bad. And that wasn't much; only a pack of beef steaks and a bag of catfish nuggets I had in the freezer was affected; everything else is still good, thank Jesus!

The girls had a doctor's appointment scheduled today (second round of shots), but no one's in the office. I left a message for them to call me back when they return so that I can reschedule.

After cleaning my house, I plan on going out and tackling those long gas lines. I filled my gas tank before the storm hit, so I was fine. I am down to a quarter now, though, so it's time to fill it up again.

I haven't turned on the TV yet. I am kind of burned out with storm coverage, you know? When I get a chance, I'll probably put a movie on first, then watch more storm coverage.

I am praying for all of the families that have been hit really hard. Believe me, I know what it is to have lost EVERYTHING and find yourself having to start all over again. But I also know how awesome God is. There is NOTHING that He can't do! I am hoping that those who have been affected, if they haven't already, begun to recognize what's truly important in their lives. Disasters have an uncanny ability to compel a person to re-examine their priorities. That has happened to me, and I'll tell you, I have never enjoyed my life as much as I do now. Material possessions can be replaced, but the things that remain after the devastation-your relationship with Jesus Christ, your family, and your character are eternal. People who know this are truly free.

I am hungry now. LOL. I have been on a fast since the storm hit, and I am ready to let loose! Okay, I have to get back to making the house ready for the girls and husband to come home. He's still out there, working 12-hour shifts, bringing home the bacon. Looks like we are getting that clothes dryer that we needed really soon! LOL God bless all of you that are reading this journal. It's very difficult for me to complain and whine much. Ask any blogger who has followed this journal since the beginning (I have been writing this since the aftermath of Katrina), and they can tell you how great a God I serve, and how good He has been to me and my family! My heart is filled with peace, joy, and compassion. And I am a strong black woman, LOL, but my strength comes from Him. He cannot fail, so I am never afraid. Be blessed, everyone!

Adrian

IKE PART 5

2008-09-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

Mom's power was turned on, and her water pressure returned to normal yesterday, thank the Lord. My babies had a hot meal and a hot bath! I did the right thing having them stay with my mom. Pops wanted them to stay home and ride the storm out! I am glad that I went with my gut (and my heart). My mom may not be at her best, but she loves her grandchildren! She'll do anything she can to take care of them. She prayed for those lights to come on, and they turned ON!!!! LOL

Our home still doesn't have power. However, the back end of the community has power, so I expect that, if not tonight, the power will be on tomorrow. The girls don't have to go back to school until Thursday, or until the power is restored to the building. I have gas, though, water, and HOT water, so I can bathe and cook. I'm happy.

One of the guys who maintains the subdivision went around surveying the damages. They are going to get this place back into shape in no time. I cannot put into words how nice this area that I live in is. And I am grateful, because this is just the kind of place we needed to be in. We aren't ready for our own house yet, but this neighborhood offers all of the comforts of a home, with apartment-like amenities (maintenance crew, etc.). It truly was a blessing for us to get in here.

It's still a "free" day at work. We can use the computer, park on the third level, etc. I am off tomorrow and Wednesday, though, so things will probably return to normal when I get back.

I am very impressed with the way the city of Houston has, and is handling the storm's aftermath. There is NONE of the chaos and confusion that you saw with Katrina. All operations are organized, and everyone involved knows what is going on. There are hundreds of utility trucks that have been sent in to the area to help put the power back on, and clear storm debris. The governor, mayor, senators and city council had to get FEMA's mind right!!!! LOL And they are NOT putting up with busybody journalists and drama-queen politicians who attempt to make more of unfortunate isolated incidents then need be. Mayor White is a good leader. With all of the responsibility that he has to shoulder, he handles it very, very well. I am always hearing him encouraging his citizens to be patient and courteous on the TV and the radio, and it seems to be working, because everyone here seems to be calm and levelheaded. There are a few folks who are losing patience and flipping their lids, but nothing like what happened in New Orleans. The people of Texas enjoy a blessed existence; there is wealth here, with few signs of depravity. A native New Orleanian is acquainted with depravity all too well.

I was also impressed with the way that Airport Operations had taken care of this airport during the storm. They maintained this place as they would have if it were their own home. Everyone is walking around here looking all scraggly and crazy, LOL, but they managed to protect their, and our, livelihood.

There is major devastation here that cannot be ignored. FEMA finally rolled in with supplies, and other agencies, such as the Red Cross, faith-based organizations (CHUCH (church), LOL) and residents that are able to help organized themselves to assist in the relief effort. It will take months, maybe even years, for the coastal cities to rebound, but Texans are a resilient people; I am more than certain that they will.

Adrian

IKE PART 4: FLOOD!!!!

2008-09-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

Although there is no power at my house, I went home and lit the oil lantern, put batteries in my radio, and went to sleep. I was awakened at about 5:30-6 AM to very loud thunder and lightning. When I looked out of the window, there was water everywhere. We were flooded in! I was very scared, because Pops wasn't home yet. There were countless calls on the radio station from frantic Texans who were surprised to wake up to water in their homes, drivers stuck on the roadways and freeway because the exits and feeder roads were flooded, and even children who were frightened because of the rain and rising water.

I called mom first, then Matt (who was on the way home), and the job to tell them that I probably wasn't going to be able to get to work today. My co-worker told me that many of my other co-workers were flooded in, too, and couldn't make it to work.

When Matt came home, he pulled our cars up to higher ground. I went back to sleep with him, and silently prayed for it to stop raining. That heavy rain came out of nowhere. We thought that the storm was over, but, just like Katrina, the aftermath of the storm can be much worse.

It was about 10:30-11 AM when the rain finally stopped. The flood waters didn't get into our home at all, thank the Lord (except for the water leaking from the gutters issue; the carpet by our window is still wet). The three of us, one of my bachelor neighbors across from me, Ms. Lechter (a 67 y/o white lady who gets around better than I do! LOL), and I walked around pulling branches from the middle of the street and clearing the storm ducts so that the water could drain out. I was able to get to work today, safely, and on time!

Pops has to pull a 12-hour shift today, and will probably have to do so until the power is up again, and all of the street lights are working. We are still expected to be without power for awhile. Mom and the girls aren't holding up too well. I'm not off until Tuesday, but I will probably head down there Monday night after work to make sure that they are straight. I may have to bring Mom home with us, or try and find a hotel that has power for them to stay in for a few days. We don't have power, but we do have gas and running water. She doesn't have any of those things, and the situation at her house is bordering on the unsanitary.

Some official in Galveston was on the news fussing angrily because he was frustrated about the long wait for FEMA to bring help. After three years and a new director, you would think that FEMA has their act together by now. Damn shame.

Adrian

IKE PART 3

2008-09-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

Pops went to work at about 1:30. He texted a message to me telling me to check the house, if I am going home today. We still didn't have any power when he left.

Mom says that they have low water pressure, and can't use the bathroom. The city is operating on one water pump. Since the storm has passed us, they are working on bringing the employees back to work to start the other pump.

Kemah, Galveston, Galveston Bay and other coastal cities in Texas are under water. Most of the hurricane damage is there. Houston, however, still suffered a lot of structural damage. The Louisiana coast also suffered some major damage and flooding. This wasn't as powerful as originally expected, but still a devastating storm in any instance. There were some deaths, and some people actually had to be rescued from attics and rooftops.

I probably have to stay here through tomorrow, and then I will probably be released Sunday evening. There is still a lot of high water surrounding the airport, and many of us cannot leave even if we wanted to. After I have a chance to check out my own home, I will do an update.

Adrian

IKE PART 2

2008-09-13T10:53:00.000-07:00

Galveston has suffered some heavy damage. Many cities here are flooded. There is a lot of debris (tree limbs, street signs, broken glass, etc.) in the roads. Some of the high rises in downtown Houston have suffered some heavy wind damage. We are still here, in the call center, hanging tough. I had gotten some sleep last night, so my supervisor told me to clock in this morning to help out. We still have power, but the air isn't on. We have fans blowing, the lights have been turned off, but we still have TV. AT & T has limited personal cell phone use to texting only. That's how I have been communicating with Matt. The power went out at home and at mom's house at about 3 or 4 AM, and the city expects that it will be at least two weeks before power is restored to all homes in the Houston area.

Nicolette had gotten scared last night, and had to talk to her daddy on the phone until she could go to sleep. The two little ones slept through most of it. I slept in my car last night (I have a sleeping bag, blankets, and two pillows), so I was pretty comfortable. I am "fasting" right now. I have food, but I will not eat unless I am really hungry, because the water pressure is low. I remember what it was like in the Dome, where we all had to use those nasty bathrooms that weren't working. The more you eat and drink, the more you have to go. My body won't miss a day or two of meals. The mayor also asked that we not bathe until they restore the water pressure. I bought cleansing wipes to kind of help keep myself as clean and as fresh as possible during this time, and I went home last night before the weather had gotten too bad and took another bath, shaved EVERYTHING (LOL) and brushed my teeth.

Pops has to go to work today, but the Mayor advised that he doesn't want anyone venturing out unless it's absolutely necessary. He was supposed to go to work for 12, but says that he will probably make it there for 5. By that time, the worst of the storm should be over with, At this writing, the storm seems to be weakening, so things are pretty calm.

The good news is that so far, there is only slight flooding in my neighborhood, but the houses aren't flooded. The water that is getting into the house is coming from the gutters overflowing onto the bushes in front of our window, and the accumulation of water there. And the power is still on here at the airport. We will probably have to hang here for awhile, until things get back to normal. At least after it is all over, we will be able to return to our homes this time.

Adrian

HURRICANE IKE!

2008-09-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well, Texas is dealing with another hurricane, and this one is expected to be much worse than Eduard was. Pops (Matthew, LOL) and I are both essential employees, so we are here. I am at the airport, and I am expected to stay for the entire weekend. Pops is at home today, but will have to work the weekend, and his day starts really early tomorrow. The girls are with my mom. She enrolled herself and the girls in an emergency evacuation program, where in case they do have to leave, they have free transportation to shelters further inland.

I have my "house" packed in the trunk of my car; I expect to be pretty comfortable. We were really prepared this time. We should be, with all that we've been through with Katrina! LOL However, I am not feeling like this storm will be as bad as Katrina was. We will have some damages, that's for sure, but at least we will be able to return home after it is all over.

I made sure that I was clean, packed well, tied up all of my loose ends, and spent the rest of the morning making love to my husband. Before Katrina hit, Matthew and I had a HUGE fight. I didn't have a chance to tell him goodbye, and that I loved him (My mom, the girls and I stayed in the Superdome, and he rode the storm out with his family in his mother's home until the flood waters rose too high for them to stay there safely any longer). We had taken each other for granted then, but when we were reunited over a week after Katrina hit, I was so happy to hear his voice, that I cried bitterly. I hated the fact that I had wasted so much valuable time being angry with him for something that I cannot even remember now. And I vowed that day that if there ever was a next time, and if I had the chance, I would make sure that I let him know how much I love him, how glad I am that he is mine, and how eager I am to see him again. There is no question in his mind today, that's for sure! I made sure of it.

On the way to work today, it looked like a ghost town. Everyone that was able to do so evacuated. The city officials wasted no time in making sure that there was no one left here that didn't have to be. At the time of this writing, the coastal areas are getting hit pretty hard. Only time will tell how bad this will be for all of us. We have no flights scheduled for the weekend, and they already issued a media message to the information line, discouraging many passengers from calling us unless it is absolutely necessary. We still have some 24 to 48 hours of this to go. But I am not worried; God is with me. He was with me through Katrina, and He is with me now. We will be fine, no matter how this turns out.

I will probably write an update later. It's a free day for us; we can use the internet, and we parked our vehicles in covered parking today. I am glad that we all are safe, at least for now.

Adrian

FINALLY A SENIOR

2008-08-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

After nearly six months of training, I have finally been signed off as a Senior Airport Communications Operator. This is my last week with Friday and Saturday off; I will start my own workweek next Sunday, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays off.

The girls started the school year in their new school district. Angela goes to elementary school on her own, while Maya and Nicolette go to the same school. The older girls are bussed, and I bring Angie to school (since the school is literally around the corner from us, and she's not eligible to be bussed). So far, so good with them. This is a much better school district (Aldine vs. HISD), so I don't think that they will encounter the same problems as they did in previous years. For the first time in a long time, Nicolette is enjoying school. I am glad, because she REALLY needs to pass this TAKS test!

I started kinda late with their school registration. Somehow, I lost everyone's proof of citizenship during the move, and had to replace everything. And after putting off starting their shots all over again for as long as I could, they finally started the first round. I have been trying to obtain their shot records from Louisiana, and for some reason or another, they just wouldn't give them to us. But a nurse at Nicolette and Maya's school was able to pull them for me (thank you, Jesus!), so now they only have to take the shots that are necessary. Isn't that something? God is so good!

There is a shoe warehouse here that sells name brand tennis shoes (FILA, New Balance, and Reebok) for a great price; I bought two pairs of Reeboks for Maya and Angela for less than $50!!!!

I lost my cute little cell phone. I looked everywhere and couldn't find it! So I wound up replacing it with TWO new phones. Since the one I lost was a prepaid phone, I purchased another handset and kept my old number (since everyone already has that one). The prepaid phone is the back-up to my new primary cell. I locked myself into a 2-year contract with insurance on this one, so it will be replaced or repaired for free if I ever lose or break it. Here is a picture of the new prepaid (received a good rating from CNET.com):

All it does is make calls, text, and I can use the internet if I wish. That's all I need a back-up to do. This is my plan phone, which I had gotten free with my contract:

This phone has a 1.3 MP camera, camcorder, MP3, Bluetooth, Cellular Video, Internet.........you get the idea. Needless to say, family and friends only; everyone else that has the old number can reach me on the back-up! LOL

There are two storms brewing in the gulf right now,and everyone is tense. Matt and I can't go anywhere, because we are both essential employees. The girls are going to stay with Mom. I don't anticipate anything really major happening here (New Orleans is already preparing for another direct hit, and the weathermen aren't yet sure where or how this storm is going to hit afterwards), but it is always good to be prepared for whatever happens. I know that no matter what happens, God is with me. We will be fine. If we can weather Katrina, we can withstand anything!

TURNED INTO A GREAT DAY AFTER ALL

2008-08-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

Even though Matthew was VERY tired today, he managed to take me to dinner and a movie........and.............well, let's just say treated me to some MUCH needed "stress relief." And he was on his job tonight, too, OKAY?!? LOL

The kids called me a few minutes ago to wish me a Happy Birthday. They're having a ball out there in Mississippi; the family managed to have plenty of things lined up out there for them to do this time.

Mom and I are going to Luby's this weekend.

All we got was some rain (that is greatly appreciated, because we have been experiencing a bit of drought down here). Business as usual resumes tomorrow, thank you JESUS. Thanks to all for the birthday wishes, and God bless you!

Adrian

WHAT LUCK..................

2008-08-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

A hurricane, tropical storm.....whatever Edouard calls itself hits land on MY birthday. That sucks. I had planned to go out and celebrate, but it is expected to rain all day, and everything is closed. I had taken off today, and now I wish I hadn't. I'm on what is called a floating holiday, which I had to schedule a MONTH in advance in order to use. Naturally, I scheduled off for my birthday well in advance of the 30 day deadline. Who knew what was going to happen then?

I did manage to prepare for this storm well, though. I had taken care of Mom yesterday morning, filled my tank with gas, purchased storm staples, and SQUEEEEEEEZED my car inside our tiny garage. Well, thank God for a garage to squeeze a car into! LOL I don't know what this storm will bring, so I didn't want to take any chances.

I thought that Matthew forgot my birthday. I mean, I don't even have a birthday cake! But he did buy me a birthday card. Nothing inside; just a card. A beautiful card. It's the thought that counts, I guess. And I haven't heard from the kids yet. It's still early, though; they will probably call later.

Speaking of parking garages.........at work, many of us who had access through our badges were parking on the third level (covered parking) for awhile. Sunday, we weren't able to get on the third level. They blocked ALL of our names out, which means that now we all have to park on the roof. Many of us were perturbed, but I took it in stride. By right, we shouldn't have been parking there anyway, and they let us park there for a long time before doing anything about it. So I am grateful. Besides, I still have free parking, and they haven't taken away our parking privileges. Plus, I already sensed that something like that was going to happen, because one of our bigwig supervisors sent an e-mail out to us earlier in the week as a friendly warning. Yesterday, however, we found out that they are using BOTH parking levels to park ALL of their fleet cars to protect them from possible storm damage, which is why our badges were blocked. My co-workers were instructed to park in the customer parking area, at any level, pull a ticket, and they will validate it for them. That says a lot to me about how early they knew about this storm; it caught me off guard! I wonder if we will be able to park on level three after the storm?

Adrian

WOO HOO! VACATION TIME FOR ME!

2008-07-16T23:40:00.000-07:00

Today was a long day. I had to attend a 6-hour stress management and customer service course, which meant that I had to be at work for 12 noon, instead of 2 PM. Then, we threw a "diaper party" for one of our supervisors that is having her baby very soon. Between the class time, the workplace drama, and the carbs, protein and sugar rush (cupcakes, ice cream, and smoked sausage sandwiches, LOL), I am EXHAUSTED.

Tomorrow I have to finish the wash, because we all are going to a family reunion in Freeport, Texas, this weekend. The girls are then going to Mississippi to visit their grandmother. They will be gone for about a month, and have to get back here in early August to get ready for school.

Getting back to the workplace drama..........the co-worker that called me a "gorilla" a few months ago....well, somehow I have found myself in her "good graces" again (whatever that means). She "thanked" me for "everything".........what ever she thanked me for, I do not know. I do know this: It is very, very difficult for me to be the kind of person that I am, a woman who is determined to walk in her integrity, and strive to do what's right only because it's RIGHT. I know that I am being watched; what bothers me is that I try to show, or sometimes tell folks, if necessary, the truth. But when they still go and do whatever they want to do anyway and get themselves into the trouble that they were already aware they were going to get into if they did a,b, and c, then what am I supposed to do? Thank me for WHAT? I mean, you still had gotten yourself into some "dumb" trouble; don't give me any credit for that!

I am SO glad that I am on vacation. I sure need one! I don't have to go back to work until Tuesday. Have a good one, y'all!

Adrian

NO MORE FREE RIDES ON THE GRAVY TRAIN

2008-07-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

Well, the time has come, and is official: We are no longer allowed to use the internet at work.

And again, all behind one person. What I found interesting, however, was the fact that the "unwarranted e-mail" was discovered so quickly, like, while still in cyberspace. The person who sent the e-mail was reprimanded IMMEDIATELY. And everyone, whether they received or opened the e-mail or not, is affected.

I have always tried my best not to receive or send any controversial e-mails to anyone at work. And I have even gone so far as to ask some people not to send me certain types of material. My husband and I, being very, very tech savvy, know that it was only a matter of time before Big Brother (and you know that city government is one of the first in line) would start reading and tracking our e-mail and internet usage. I found it funny that many of my co-workers were so surprised about this. I'm not surprised, I am just a bit peeved because now everyone has to suffer because of this. And if they think this is bad, then it's only going to get worse! With the advent of the National ID in a few short years, you won't be able to work or spend the money you earned (and saved up for retirement) without it! The end is near!

Came home, and my darlings gave me big, big hugs. Nicolette even let me give her a kiss on the forehead. I feel much, much better now. I'll be elated after tomorrow, because then I'll be off.

Adrian

HAPPY 4TH! FIRST BACKYARD BBQ AT NEW HOME

2008-07-05T02:13:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their 4th as much as I did today. I don't have many opportunities to just enjoy myself and have a good time, because I am always being responsible for others, but today, I must say that I had LOTS of fun! We stayed outside in our back yard ALL DAY today, BBQ'ing, catching some sun, and firing sparklers while watching our neighbors put on a real light show around here! LOL Everything tastes wonderful; I have some pics to share:

This is the front of our new home, and it was as beautiful today as it was when I had taken this picture.

Hubby is firin' it up! Believe it or not, he bought the small grill only a few days ago, and the larger grill just yesterday. Matt doesn't play around when it comes to the BBQ! LOL

This chicken is DELICIOUS!!!! Went well with my potato salad and baked beans!

SMOKIN!!!!!!!! LOL

The last piece of chicken, red fish, and shrimp skewers (for Matt; I can't eat shrimp!)

Angie enjoying her back yard. I cut the grass and edged the yard myself!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Adrian

LOCTICIANS AND STIMULUS CHECKS

2008-06-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

I'm tired because I am working morning shift for one week due to training. I am SO not a morning person!

I finally found a loctician here in Houston. A loctician is a beautician who specializes in loc's and natural hair styling. My hair is beautiful, clean, neat, and flowing! Best of all, she and I have a lot in common, and she has taken me on as one of her regular customers. One of my church members strongly recommended me to her. This loctician has such a large clientele, that she wasn't able to accept any new clients for awhile. I was lucky to be one of the new clients she "hired" this year after "firing" some difficult ones. Believe me, I don't plan on giving her any trouble!

I finally received my letter in the mail telling me that my stimulus check should be here soon. It's about time; I thought I'd never get it! I wish our government would stop treating us like we're a bunch of idiots! Some folks received 2 stimulus checks, and many received checks that weren't even supposed to get them. Then they had the audacity to announce that those people shouldn't cash those checks, because the government will eventually catch up with them. The folks who were supposed to receive checks didn't get them when the government said that they were going to; how many years will it take for them to catch up with the folks who weren't supposed to get them?!? LOL Anyhoo, I already have a specific plan for the money; I'll keep you posted.

The kids are really enjoying their new home. It's safe, clean, spacious and quiet. We are planning the first BBQ in our new home for the 4th of July, and the kids can't wait! They will be playing in their back yard while their dad and I are cooking. They also like the fact that there is PLENTY for families to do out here.....we live down the street from a huge shopping mall that regularly hosts family events, and there are several restaurants, stores, and novelty shops that are only minutes away. Where we lived before, we had to travel so far out in order to do the simplest things, like making groceries.

Speaking of their dad...........I must say how happy I am with Matthew. Since he's been working for the city, he has really been diligent in caring for us, especially me. It's as if he is "catching up for lost time," doing things that he's wanted to do for us all along, but never had enough money to. He's walking around with his chest puffed out, strutting like a peacock, and I can't help but giggle under my breath at him sometimes (don't worry about that, babe, I've got it.....LOL), but I also couldn't be more proud. He's always been a great husband and father, despite the fact that for most of the time that we've been together, I've always managed to make more money than he did. I know now that that's only because there weren't many opportunities available in New Orleans for a computer technician. Hurricane Katrina was devastating, but a lot of good came out of this disaster, too. I am just thankful that no matter what everyone else was doing, I stood my ground, and refused to compromise with what I believe in. I never gave up on my husband or my family, no matter how hard it got, and I believe that I am reaping the rewards of that steadfastness now. I almost lost my family before because I wasn't willing to yield to all that being a wife and mother entails. Now I know that being a wife and mother is one of the greatest gifts that can ever be bestowed on a woman. And I am grateful that God bestowed those gifts on me. I am blessed.

Adrian

FOOOOOL-ISH-NESS

2008-06-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, 2 co-workers, an older lady and a much younger one, had gotten into an argument about what was on the TV here in the call center.

The younger one asked permission from the supervisor to change the channel to the Lakers/Celtics game, which was, of course, the last game of the series, and the season. The older lady wasn't in the center, or at her desk, which happens to be where the TV is, when the change happened.

Once the older lady returned to her seat, she promptly changed the channel to one that SHE wanted to watch.

The younger lady then promptly corrected the older lady, in "put this little girl in her place" language. Naturally, the older lady, who has been here longer (to those of you who have been reading this journal for awhile, this is the lady that has been here for 15 years, whom I've had to re-train) didn't like being addressed as a child from this little upstart. So she sends an e-mail to the supervisor, making all kinds of accusations about the younger co-worker threatening her and all of this jazz. (There were no threats made to her. The younger co-worker said what she had to say, and that was it, but we all know how older people behave when they feel that their "space" has been invaded. The younger lady's correction was perceived as a threat).

Today, they are both in a disciplinary hearing at our main operations office. They have been gone now for almost three hours.

Why am I angry? Because even though I wasn't involved in this mess in no way, shape, or form, since I was in the vicinity of the altercation, I had to give an oral statement to the supervisor about what I heard, then turn around and give a WRITTEN statement!!!!

I HATE writing e-mails on folks! I REALLY, REALLY didn't want to do it; then my super had the audacity to come over to my desk and "get" the hard copy from me!!! I wasn't involved in this FOOOOO-LISH-NESS, so why was I dragged in the middle of it?

You know, I am only 33 years old, and I am sick and tired of grown people who act like children! Now a major disciplinary hearing is taking place, all because of a damn TV!!!! Which, I might add, is only supposed to stay tuned in to CNN! The supervisors have been nice enough lately to let us watch other channels (one supervisor team even organized "movie weekends" for us, with popcorn and everything!), and all of that can be taken away because two dolts couldn't work this out!!! This older co-worker can be my mother, for God's sake! Why won't some people GROW UP?!?

Adrian

P.S. The older one just walked in. I haven't seen the younger one yet................

MY NEW HOME

2008-06-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

Cute, isn't it?

We are finally settling in to the subdivision and so far, we love EVERYTHING about our new home. It has just the right amount of space. It's a far cry from where we were staying! The hubby did GOOD! What a blessing!

Adrian

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!

2008-05-06T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Nicolette's birthday! She's 13. Ah, 13.....such a tough age to be....LOL But Matt and I are helping her as much as we can.

She is all excited about the upcoming plans for her room. We already picked out bedding and the colors. We just need to buy her a bed. I'm still trying to talk her into choosing a white bed; I think that white is a great color for a girls' room! She's stuck on black and green.......emerald is her birthstone. What dark, garish colors! Then again, it IS her room! I am sure that we will be able to reach an agreement...LOL Maya and Angela are easy; Angie wants My Little Pony bedding, and Maya wants the Cheetah Girls. They will have the bigger room to share. Maya is so silly; she told her daddy that she wants the master bedroom, because the bathroom is in it! LOL

I think that we will go and see Iron Man this weekend. The movie made 98 million dollars! That's good, right? LOL

My training is going pretty well. I have gotten the hang of dispatching, and next week I will be sitting on flight information/gate control side for three weeks. My trainer is pretty efficient. I like watching, learning, listening and doing, and she brings it all. That's why I chose her as my trainer. She's not so difficult to get along with once you get to know her better. There are reasons for her moods, and I understand better now.

My brother is divorcing his wife and returning back here to Houston. In my opinion, he shouldn't have left in the first place. All of his friends are here, his job was here, and he should have put his foot down and told his wife to take it or leave it! They returned home because the house that they are living in is in her name. But she is involved in a relationship with another WOMAN and, well.....you get the picture. He should be here by the end of the month, the same time we will be moving into our new home.

Neighbor is finally moving out this week. His apartment is nearly empty. He had the audacity to speak to me this morning! Sometimes, I think that some folks are CRAZY, and don't even know it. Well, soon I will be gone, too. His moving doesn't matter to me at all. He messed up big time. He shouldn't have been caught in my yard, looking into my house, at my young daughter. He has no one to blame for this but himself (though I've heard that he has been trying to blame others in the complex). Frankly, I am tired of grown people who try to blame everyone but themselves for their problems. Grown folks need to GROW UP!

We have been busy every weekend since my schedule change. We are furniture and appliance shopping, and tying up loose ends (transferring phone and utilities to new address, forwarding mail address, etc.). If I haven't made an entry in awhile, you know why. Hopefully, by the time I make another one, we will be settled into our new home.

Adrian

THE FULL MOON HAS PASSED.............

2008-04-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

...........hence, the reason why all hell literally broke loose last week. But everything is back to normal now. The landlord went downtown to check the neighbor's criminal record (something he should have done long before moving the man in here!), and found out for himself that all I knew, and even more (God, help us!) were true. Needless to say, he will not be living here anymore.

The kids have calmed down, too. They were cutting up long before "the incident" happened. But Matt and I finally managed to straighten them out. This past Friday, I had taken them, and one of their friends, out for dinner. Four giggling girls made for good, clean fun! Matthew and I had our date night Saturday. It was a fun weekend, but I am beginning to tire of these weekends. Lately, I've noticed that I haven't been getting very much accomplished (laundry, shopping, appointments, etc.), because once the weekend rolls around, everyone has only one thing on their minds: having FUN, and lots of it! That's fine and dandy, but the important things still have to be done, too. My weekdays were where I could do all of my family and household business with little or no interference. I have been going to bed early so that I can have the energy to run a few errands in the mornings before heading to work. Even with more sleep, I still feel like I am burning a candle at both ends, you know?

We also returned to the subdivision where we are interested in moving, and put our deposit down for one of the available units. The units we saw the week before are taken, but the ladies showed us one that will be available by the time that we are ready to move (probably next month). It is the biggest floor plan that they have available for the price, and the only unit with a walk-in closet in the master bedroom! This home looks more like an actual house, with plenty of yard space. Matthew liked the previous one with the open floor plan, but agreed that this duplex has way more room. The bedrooms are bigger, too, and the garage is detached from the unit. We're just waiting forthem to call us and let us know if we have been approved. Everything requires a background check and a credit check these days, sheesh! But I have been PRAYING, and hoping that they will consider the fact that I have been working on my credit, with wonderful results, and Matt's solid credit history. Between the two of us, one of us should be accepted! LOL

If we move there, we'll have to buy a refrigerator, a dryer, and furniture for the girls' rooms. We've just been looking so far; we're not going to make any purchases until we have been accepted.

The neighborhood will be like living in the country; it seems so quiet and peaceful. I never thought in a million years that I, an urbanite for life, would dare consider living in an area like that. But I see what urban life has the potential to do to my kids, and let's face it, my kids aren't ME. I survived urban life because I HAD to; I had no other choice. My children have, and deserve, better options for their lives, and Matthew and I both work hard to provide for them. I don't see the point in putting the girls through what I went through as a child. There's no need for that; there are no mystical "life lessons" to learn; only fear, plenty of despair, and hopelessness. I want them to enjoy their childhood, to enjoy being kids. I want them to have hope for a better tomorrow. It took a miraculous miracle from God to break me out of that hopeless mindset. I don't want them growing up with troubles like that on their little minds. Life is hard enough without adding unnecessary stress and danger to it.

My trainer is a handful! I chose her because she seemed like she was a very knowledgeable person. She is, but my goodness, I had no idea of how fussy and argumentative she is! What the heck is she trying to prove, anyway? LOL And to whom? It stands the reason for a woman that young to be so caustic. I guess being one of the best isn't enough these days; everyone wants to be THE BEST, and will try to sabotage anyone that gets in their way! I am just trying to make my transition as seamless as possible. I glean from her what is important, and disregard all of the unimportant stuff. I do not intend to let little petty things ruin my workday. That's my rule that I follow with a passion.

As far as the workload goes, it seems that the higher you go, the less work you do. And I see that the across-the-board city pay raise plus my promotional raise gave me the salary I desired; actually, it's about $900 more than I asked for. What had taken me seven long years to accomplish in New Orleans as a police dispatcher took less than two years here, and for much less work. God is so good to me!

Adrian

**UPDATE**

WE'RE IN!!!!!!

WE'RE IN, WE'RE IN, WE'RE IN!!!!!!!!!!

I've just received the call from the subdivision!!!!!! Oh, Lord, I'm crying right now........I am so happy! I'll have to take pictures of our new home.....what a blessing!!!!!

A SEX OFFENDER IN OUR MIDST

2008-04-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

Last night, my neighbor, a registered sex offender, was caught masturbating while peering through my living room window, watching Nicolette. Nicolette was innocently sitting on the sofa, watching cartoons, totally unaware of what was going on outside.

My neighbors let me know what was going on. I didn't even know that he was on the side of my house. 2 of my neighbors were returning home last night and saw him on the side of mine and my neighbor's house. I don't even know how long he's been there. I don't know how long he has been doing this. I don't even want to consider the fact that he may have been watching ALL of us.

I woke Matthew up and told him what was going on. Matthew went outside while I called the police. I am grateful for my neighbors, because usually they scatter when the police come around, but they all gave their version of the story to the officers. I am grateful for Matthew's friend, Jerold, because when my neighbor had gotten dressed to try and leave before the police came, Matthew put his tennis shoes and sweat pants on, called Jerold, and he came right over to help support my husband.

To make a long story short, they had taken him away. I already knew that he was a registered sex offender, because his name and picture is posted on the Family Watchdog Site (which is also listed under My Favorite Links). But I didn't want to treat him like a villain, or cause others to. I'm like this: we all have done things in our pasts that we'd like to forget, and everyone deserves a chance to redeem themselves. Up until this point, he never bothered us, so as long as he kept his distance, we left him alone. He does have a sexual problem, though. Sexual addiction is like any other addiction (drugs, alcohol,name your demon here), when, if not treated, can consume you. Women, young and old, would come in and out of his house at all hours. He has two lesbian nieces, who he paid to act as subjects for his voyeurism ( I just found this out today). But anyone who knows a sex addict, especially a pedophile, knows that all of the sex in the world won't satisfy their urges; what they desire are pure, innocent, untouched children. This is where Nicolette, and possibly my other two girls, came in.

But he made his mistake there. He also made his mistake by underestimating me. Many people make the mistake of taking my kindness for weakness. But underneath all of this cordiality is a VERY INFORMED individual. I MUST STAY informed for the sake of my children. And this is a scripture that I follow with a passion:

Matthew 5:43-49 (The Message)

43-47"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.

48"In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."

I cannot be everywhere that my children are, but God is. And if we desire to obey Him, regardless of how much it hurts us, He will look out for and care for His children, and all who are under their care. And He'll use ANYONE to do it. I don't make a habit of disrespecting anyone, or treating others with contempt, because I don't know WHO God will use to bless us, or look out for us, or who he'll place in my path for ME to bless. And if I am making a commitment to live right before God, believe me, He'll deal with anyone who persecutes us for no cause.

If any parent is reading this, I urge you to get informed, and STAY informed. Don't stick your head in the sand. For the sake of your children, be in the know. Be wise as a serpent, yet gentle as a dove. Because when it becomes necessary for the serpent in you to strike, you will have plenty of venom (information) with which to defend yourself and your loved ones.

Adrian

SO FAR, SO GOOD

2008-04-20T18:46:00.000-07:00

Well, I am into my second week of training, and so far, so good. I always take good notes, and read over them nightly, so most of the information is being committed to memory. The only thing that I have to work on is remembering who to call for what, and what goes where. I am getting used to handling different kinds of calls. There are some issues that come up which require more detail, but I have six months to learn it all. Well, Rome wasn't built in a day!

Matthew and I have been looking for new housing this weekend! We found a BEAUTIFUL residential community that looks just like a suburban subdivision! It's not an apartment, but more like a house. The rent is decent, but we will have to pay for our own water and utilities. The rooms are spacious, and there is a park RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE COMPLEX! The unit we looked at has more than enough storage space ( a 1-car garage is included, along with a closet in each room, plus a utility closet). I just cannot believe how beautiful and peaceful the neighborhood is! I knew that we had to move, but I didn't expect to find anything like this! It would be a great environment for the kids to grow, play, and ride their bikes! The only thing is that Matthew had his heart set on a single unit (a house), which they have, but they cost slightly more. We will have to sit down and find out if we can afford the place. I'll keep you posted.

My mom fell in her kitchen this morning. It had taken her 2 hours to get up and into her bed in her room in the back of the house. I keep calling her, and she is assuring me that she is fine. She has to go to the doctor tomorrow, and told me that if she is feeling really bad, she will check herself in to the emergency room.

As my mom gets older, it is becoming more difficult for her to get around. Her health is fine, but because she is so heavy and her legs are so bad, it is tougher for her to walk and do simple things. I realize that in the very near future, my mom will have to be constantly cared for. This poses a problem, because I don't know what to do. I have considered letting her move in with us, but for my husband, that is out of the question. In a way, I don't blame him. My mom is a very difficult person to live with, and it just wouldn't be fair to the kids. I have also thought about moving her in to an apartment close to where we may be moving. The residential community that we are looking at has several apartment complexes within walking distance, and with reasonable rent. There's also the possibility that she can move back to New Orleans. Her friends and my brother want her to do that, but she wants to stay here. Like I said, it is a LOT to think about, but with all things, I put it in the hands of the Lord, and I know that He will show us the best way.

A co-worker of mine had taken a picture of me without my permission, and showed it to either some friends of hers or some family members. Someone told her that I looked like a gorilla. That person also said that they wouldn't be seen with me, and I wouldn't be able to go anywhere behind them.

Ouch. I know that I am not the most attractive person in the world (but, a GORILLA? LOL ), but for some reason, this aggravated me. I cannot recall doing anything to this woman that would warrant such a vicious attack. I have tried to be nothing but friendly and helpful to her (she is one of the SENIORS that I had to re-train!) Her personality leaves much to be desired, but I have always tried to treat her with respect, and like a human being should be treated. She always complains about white folks calling black people "black monkeys," and hating when that happens (especially when they call her sons this), but yet she calls me, one of her OWN, a gorrila! I tell you, as long as I have lived, I have NEVER heard a white person call me the "N" word (PC term), a monkey, or any derogatory name. I guess that's because when they look at me, they don't see that. I don't carry myself like an animal. Now, I am sure that some would have liked to call me those names (and from what I have heard, I may experience that here in Texas), but it's never happened. But from myown people, I've been called all kinds of things, and then some. My attitude has always been that it isn't necessarily white people that you have to worry about, but "YOUR OWN" people.

She doesn't know that I know about this. I don't know if I should confront her, or let the foolishness go. The next time she tries to talk to me, I'd like to tell her "what do you think you look like, talking to an animal?" LOL

Adrian

FIRST DAY OF TRAINING

2008-04-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

To explain how I am feeling right about now, I guess I'd have to start from yesterday. I had to take my car to Car Max early yesterday morning, after dropping off the kids, to fix a leak under the hood (they found it; it was a loose gasket). They replaced the gasket and changed the oil free of charge, even though my 30-day warranty expired with them on the 8th. Since they extended the terms for me as a courtesy, they couldn't provide me with a "loaner" vehicle, so I had to wait until they were done with my car. That meant that I actually had to WALK to the mall, and to a restaurant for lunch while I waited! Those years at Wal-Mart definitely paid off in this case. I am still physically fit enough to walk long distances!

After getting the car back, I had to rush to the school to pick Nicolette up, took a short nap, then picked up the little ones from the after-school program. Then, I had to go to south Houston to run some errands for my mom. I didn't return home until about 12 AM!

At work today, I had to set up a new e-mail account for all of my new contacts, go over basic dispatch protocol, and had taken a TWO HOUR tour (on FOOT) of some airport terminals to get a visual on what our airport personnel and contractors handle and don't handle (thank God I wore comfy shoes today! LOL). I also learned why some aircraft are assigned to certain gates based on size, because that can be an issue if two large planes are parked too close to each other; they can clip each other's wings! I had taken a lot of notes, and my trainer also printed up some information sheets for me. After typing this, I am going to go and study a little bit. It always helps if I read things, so that the information gets into my head, you know? This job is all about how well we keep records, how well we pay attention, and how knowledgeable we are about our job, and the airport. If a person doesn't know anything, or is too lazy to find stuff out, it is possible to make oneself a target for abuse and disrespect, at all levels. Knowledge is POWER, and I plan to learn as much as I can.

I will be "shadowing" my trainer starting Saturday. Instead of my being off every Tuesday and Wednesday and she Friday and Saturday, I will be off the same days she is. Not only will that ensure that my training is consistent, but who doesn't want a few months or so to spend with hubby and the kiddies on the weekends? Plus, my sups won't have to use me to train the newbies. They'll just have to use the operators that are left. I will return to my Tuesday-Wednesday after training, though, which is what I want. I will be off this Saturday, and work from Sunday until Friday.

As far as my salary goes, I am making about the same amount I would have if I worked an extra day of overtime each pay period as an operator. However, all city employees just received a 3% raise, plus an increase in shift differential pay. My next check will be slightly higher because of this. I am grateful for anything I can get, you know? There are many people who can't say that they can pay their bills, so I know that I am blessed.

I know that I am rambling now, but I am completely EXHAUSTED. One more day to go, and I'll be off!

Adrian

A GLIMMER OF HOPE?

2008-04-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

Brazil's Big Oil Find

In November, Brazil's state-run oil company Petrobas announced the largest oil discovery worldwide since 2000. Though the country is already a self-sufficient oil producer, the new Tupi field — located off the eastern coast of South America, beneath a crust of salt a mile thick in some places—could turn Brazil into a major exporter to rival Saudi Arabia and Venezuela. Brazil wasted no time in protecting the area that is expected to produce as much as 8 billion barrels of light crude oil. The day after the Petrobas announcement, the government withdrew 41 exploration blocks in the Tupi region from an auction for private companies.

From “Time Magazine’s Top 10 Underreported Stories of 2007”

WHAT'S UP

2008-03-29T16:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't started training yet. As I have said before, I'm really not worried about it, because I am already in my classified pay grade. They can keep me over here for A YEAR if they want to, it wouldn't make any difference to me! LOL

We found out that they hired two newbies (ACO's) last Wednesday. Their starting date is April 8. Karen's first day as a senior is today, but she probably won't start until Monday, since she is still off on weekends until she returns here. My training will probably start when she returns. Or, they might have us training the newbies before we begin our training. Since Karen and I are already familiar with the airport and how everything works in the communications center, and since we are already being paid as seniors, there is no real rush to train us. It looks to me as if that is the route that they are taking, but then again, you never know what will happen in this place! LOL

I was thinking about signing on with T-Mobile along with my husband, because they are running a special this month (purchase service and get a free Samsung phone), but he beat me to the punch. I guess I was taking too long to make up my mind. He upgraded his handset yesterday. Here is a picture of his old phone:

And here is his upgrade:

Shucks, it's a lot like my phone, except that it's much bigger, bluetooth-enabled, computer-friendly, and takes video. I went on ahead and purchased the night and weekend minute package, as well as a texting package for my phone, so that I can keep up with him. It wound up being a pretty good investment (I can yap with friends and family as long as I like after 9 PM weekdays, and all day Saturday and Sunday). Even better, since I am a pre-paid customer, my credit didn't have to be checked to obtain cell phone service! Now, I can build my refill minutes. I have to re-fill the packages once they expire so that my unused N/W minutes and text messages will roll over to the next month, but that's what, $25, compared to $40, $50, and sometimes $60 a month for cell phone plans? A great deal for my money all around. I also shaved some costs from my electric and home phone bills last week by removing some unnecessary features on my house phone and signing up for a one-rate plan with the electric company. What a difference! With gas prices the way they are, we must find ways of saving money as best as we can.

Adrian

EASTER SUNDAY PIC

2008-03-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

Nikki always looks down whenever we try to take a picture of her! LOL

Will update on what's going on at work soon; hope everyone had a Happy Easter!

Congrats on your promotion, Amy!

Adrian

TICKET!

2008-03-21T17:02:00.000-07:00

I got a speeding ticket last night! The officer claimed he clocked me going 77 mph in a 60 mph zone. I probably was; I ain't going to lie, I was tired! I was 2 MINUTES away from my house! 2 MINUTES! GRRRRRRRR! Why do they equip these vehicles with these peppy engines, and we can't even use them? LOL Sometimes, I am just driving, and I don't even realize that I am going so fast, because the car doesn't even FEEL like it is going 70 or 80 miles! I really have to start paying more attention to my speedometer! I already filled out the paperwork and the payment for the fine; I actually elected to request the mandatory driving course, which is much cheaper than paying the fine outright. Plus, they will dismiss my case upon completion, and no points will be applied to my driver's license. I have a STELLAR driving record; I'm not trying to tarnish that over some speeding ticket!

Turns out I didn't have to leave my girls home all morning. I went to "processing," signed ONE PAPER, and was sent home! I stayed home with them for the rest of the morning, until I had to go back to work. Matthew had gotten off REALLY early today, so even if I had to stay out the whole day, he would have been home with them.

Many people congratulated me; however, I don't feel like this is such a big deal. I did find out something wonderful today, though. The lady who trained ME is returning here, as a promotional move, to train as a senior also! That, to me, was good news. When I had gotten here, they were treating Karen so badly. They didn't realize what she brought to this department until she left here. She trained me so well, they finally realized that they had made a mistake in the way they had been handling her. All of those busybody co-workers who were harassing her, writing her up, tattling on her (you know, all of that workplace politics foolishness that goes on) are now being held on a short leash, and Karen is finally receiving her long-overdue promotion. It's a shame, though, that so much had to happen before she finally received her due.

Another concern here is that operators are already short-handed (they never replaced the ones that left). They are bringing two new employees in, but we don't know who they are and when they are coming. Then, the question is, who is going to train them? The operators that are left already started complaining about this. I would have loved to stay over here a little while longer and train the new employees, so that they would be trained properly. I am not saying that the operators who are over here don't know what they are doing, but let's just say that they aren't the most dedicated people in the world. I am already assigned to my new pay grade effective March 22, so if they decide to delay my training in order to help the newbies out, I would be more than happy to do so. Either way it goes, I will still be getting paid! LOL I just hope that whoever they are hiring has some experience with this kind of work. That will make all our lives much easier!

Adrian

I LOVE MY CAR; NEW JOB

2008-03-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

It's official; next week I will be a Senior Airport Communications Operator. HR called to tell me this morning, while I was half-asleep. I wanted to start the processing Monday, but the lady wants me to get processed tomorrow, so that I will be receiving my raise, and be classified in my new pay grade by the time the next check rolls around.

I am going to be off Easter weekend; I don't return until Thursday. I should start training then. I already asked one of the dispatchers that I wanted to train with if she would take me on, and she already accepted. The raise is only a couple of dollars, but there is more chances to advance when coming from a senior position. Plus, when I have to work overtime, the time-and-a-half rate increases. Any little bit helps, you know? I am just glad that I have been chosen, and that I was found worthy to be promoted. You'd be surprised, as easy as this job is, how difficult it is to be promoted within this department.

I know that I only had my car for a week, but the more I drive it, the more I love it!!! Best car I have ever owned, so far. It's clean, it's fuel-efficient (a full tank lasts more than a week); it still has that clean car smell (LOL), and it's MINE. Ford vehicles take a lot of flack, but their cars are still, in my opinion, a great deal for the money. It's safe, it's economical, and it's reliable. That's all I really wanted, anyway. The money that I could have spent on a more expensive vehicle is going towards my savings for buying a house, or for my credit repair process.

The kids are on spring break. We are having a ball! I have to leave them tomorrow morning, because I have to be processed for my new job at 9 AM sharp. Nicolette has been stepping up to her "big sister" role, though. She has been getting up every morning fixing breakfast. Anyone who has been following me knows how much my little lady loves to cook, and she has been doing a GREAT job (she hasn't burned down the houseyet! LOL). To be on the safe side, though, I will instruct them to eat cereal tomorrow morning. I don't need any unexpected surprises right now, you know? LOL I hate leaving them alone like that, but my Mom is going to the doctor's office, so she won't be able to keep them until tomorrow night. Tomorrow night, of course, I am staying with her and the kids, getting their hair ready for Easter Sunday. I ALWAYS call them every 30 to 45 minutes when I must leave them like this. Believe me, this doesn't happen very often. But they will be fine.

I have to let Matt know what's going on. I didn't know that my husband was really into texting until I bought my new phone! He just sent me a message asking me to bring toilet paper and paper towels home. He texts other things to me, too! I don't mind all of the messages, but they cost me more, because I have pre-paid! I guess I'll have to look into purchasing that texting plan that AT & T has for pre-paid customers. It's only $5 a month, and won't cut into my limited minutes. I said LOOK INTO IT, because I am a person that rarely, if ever, uses my phone. I would hate to pay for a service I rarely use!

Adrian

NEW CAR

2008-03-09T15:14:00.000-07:00

Last night, I finally put Nelly, my 21 year-old vehicle, out of commission. I have a picture of him saved on my cell phone, but the file is too big to send to my computer. I found a picture of what he kinda looked like. Same color, except he wasn't nearly as pristine:

I sentimentally watched him go behind the salvage gate for the very last time. I bought him when we first arrived here in Houston after the hurricanes, and in the three years I have owned him, it was a love-hate relationship, but he served me well.

Here is a picture of my new car, a 2006 Ford Taurus (same color, with grey cloth interior):

My new car only has 10,000 miles on it! I bought it from CarMax, and I later found out that it was a vehicle that the company used as a loaner to customers who were having their car serviced. This car is in excellent condition; not one conspicuous scratch on it! Everything is factory, but that's fine with me; I'm not a teenager anymore, having to drive around with everyone listening to my music! I have AIR CONDITIONING!!!! It came with the floor mats, the manual, and two keys, one with a remote. And my car note and full-coverage insurance are EXTREMELY affordable; even if I still worked at Wal-Mart, I would be able to afford them!

What a blessing! God is SO GOOD to me. I would have been satisfied with some cash car, like an older Honda Accord or something, but instead He made sure that I was able to afford a newer, much better car, along with the insurance and the extended warranty that needed to go on it! Who says that God doesn't HEAR and ANSWER prayer?!? And His answer is ALWAYS better than what you expected, or what you would have settled for yourself!

Adrian

P.S. If you're looking to buy another vehicle, go to CarMax!

INTERVIEW!

2008-02-28T09:04:00.000-08:00

I am interviewing for the Senior Airport Communications Operator position today. Wish me luck, cross your fingers, and keep me in prayer! :=)

Adrian

PATTING MYSELF ON THE BACK

2008-02-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

I am SO happy right now. I am viewing my annual credit reports, and I am extremely surprised by how much my credit history has improved!

In my opinion, I am doing very little, paying as much as I can afford through debt consolidation. But I have been consistent, and it is paying off. You'd be surprised at how far a little effort can take you! I am on the road to financial recovery!

Who knows, maybe next year this time (or sooner), I will be writing about moving into our new home! I'm serious, folks, this is becoming a reality for me. Because I am paying off my debts, many of my negative accounts are turning positive THIS YEAR!!! Some of my older delinquent accounts, most of which I already paid or are paying off, are scheduled to be removed from my report, some this year, some next year, some in a few years. I am just playing it safe right now, and trying not to add too many unnecessary flags to my credit history (like applying for credit I know I won't qualify for, etc.).

I am growing impatient, though, because I want a home so badly. Things are looking good, but I am not quite there yet. But I am so glad that I have decided to be proactive about this. I am tired of not being able to do simple things that others take for granted, like hold a credit card, apply for a car loan (we buy all of our vehicles cash), or a mortgage. But in a few years, I will be able to do those things again. A few years!

Or, who knows, I might just remain frugal. I'm being honest, I have been living within my means for a very long time now, and it is, surprisingly, extremely stress-free! LOL I don't buy anything unless I need it, if I have the cash for it, and it is on sale. I shop at "dollar stores" for cleaning supplies, bathroom tissue, and paper towels. I am a DEVOUT Wal-Mart shopper, simply because they are still the only ones who issue those great surprises at the cash register (those jeans, sale price $9, are just $3?!? LOL) I save for bigger purchases, and buy them cash. My debit card is my "credit card," meaning that if my account says that I don't have the money to buy it, it stays in the store. I budget, clip coupons, and scour the Internet for bargains. I make groceries, and cook most of our meals. We do eat out, but not often. I almost NEVER buy lunch or snacks at work!!! I bring them from home. The girls and I all have pre-paid cell phones (thanks to two delinquent cell phone accounts that I have since paid, that were reported to the credit bureau!!!) No more minutes, no phone until I refill them. We take care of the clothes that we have, and add a few pieces here and there to update our wardrobes. I do everyone's hair, and Matthew only pays $5 for his haircuts! All of that scrimping and saving has paid off for us; I am even helping Matthew with his credit, so that we both can be in good standing! Spending money freely will be difficult, if not impossible, for me to do again. I love the feeling of paying my bills on time, and not having bill collectors call my house. We may not have the things that we want, but we have everything that we need, and I am, in a word, satisfied.

If ANYONE out there wants to get on the road to financial recovery, but think that it is impossible to do, I urge you to give it a try. I thought my situation was dire, but I am a living witness that a little goes a long way! Here is a link to the debt consolidation agency that I am affiliated with. They are a GOOD, solid, reputable company. Please bear in mind that you will have to do your part with them; they distribute the funds, but sometimes, you may have to contact creditors to update your balances and such. Work with them; you won't be disappointed.

Money Management International

Adrian

WOW

2008-02-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

WOW :

Okay, after further investigation, I have discovered that the first article is written by The Onion, a farcical news source. Not true, folks, but still a fun read! Heck, it caught my attention.......

The other two articles are genuine. Sorry about that!

Adrian

WOW

2008-02-25T18:07:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am not a fan of Major League Baseball, but a few articles I stumbled upon recently were interestingly shocking. You know what a stickler I am for sharing reads that I find interesting, so here are a few links:

This one is in reference to the announcement that MLB is no longer searching for new talent. Consider all hopes for future careers in major-league baseball dashed, for now! The alternatives that the commissioner offers to the future prospects at the end of the article is just plain.....well, I'll let you decide what you think about his comments.

MLB No Longer Accepting New Players

The other two articles are in reference to the one who everyone seems to think is responsible for the ruin of baseball as America once knew it, the "super agent" Scott Boras. I must admit, reading about the way this guy operates, so unabashedly greedy, was shocking and obscene to me. And it is interesting to finally read about who was responsible for A-Rod's overpriced contract. I'll bet he's not happy at all about the commissioner's news.

Breakdown: Scott Boras vs. Satan (blog)

Is Scott Boras A Bad Person?

Enjoy!

Adrian

WHAT'S GOOD?

2008-02-24T15:45:00.000-08:00

What's good? I'm just sitting here, reading a book, snacking, and uploading pictures that I had taken of my self with my new Samsung phone, LOL. That's what having a cushy job can do for you! LOL

I like Samsung phones for their picture quality, but I LOVE Nokia cell phones. I think that they are the best-quality phones out there. Picture quality is poor, though. I had a basic Nokia phone, a 6010 with no camera, that I passed down to Maya. I purchased a Samsung A-127:

It's a TEENY-TIIIIIIINY little phone, which is exactly what I wanted. I needed a phone small enough to fit in the clutch purse that I use to run my errands with, or in my pocket. It's a basic, stylish phone with a camera as a bonus. The battery life is HORRIBLE compared to Nokia phones, but it still is a pretty cool little gadget. You can customize wallpapers, download ring tones, text, send messages to e-mail, all of that stuff that cell phones do these days. And it opens up to a pretty impressive size, enough to hold a decent conversation comfortably. I'm still playing with it, hoping that the novelty will wear off soon. LOL

Last week was pretty rough. That time of the month was rolling around and is now here, and I don't know, it seemed to me like everyone in the universe was hell-bent on working on my last nerve! Co-workers, the kids, my husband......it was rough! LOL It didn't help that I have become hooked on those McDonald's iced coffees, knowing DARN well what coffee does to me! I received a slew of free coupons for the coffees from the restaurants themselves, friends and family members, so I have been indulging. I will have to back off of them, though. It's been so long since I last had coffee, and I forgot how unpleasant a caffeine withdrawal was!

Thanks to all who still read my journal. I hope that everyone is doing well in 2008. Oh, and Matthew seems to be getting the hang of his new job. He is doing really well; I already knew that he would! Nikki was cleared of her charges in juvenile court last Thursday. She didn't even need to turn in the essay that they had her write! LOL Be blessed, everyone!

Adrian

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

2008-02-14T14:51:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU, JESUS! A TESTIMONY

2008-02-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Today, I took Nelly (my 21 year-old car) for his inspection. I thought sure that he wasn't going to pass. Turns out that he did INDEED pass inspection! There was some minor damage done to the car that needed to be repaired, but when it was all over, all I had to pay out-of-pocket was $184!!!

This means that I don't have to rush when buying another car this year. If I would have had to dispose of Nelly now, because he didn't pass inspection, I would have had to rent a car until I purchased another one. That could have taken two to four weeks! I probably would have bought a car before I was ready, or before finding the right car for me at the right price! Oh, and as for borrowing my brother's car, it never happened. The Cadillac failed on him, so I wasn't able to drive it back here, let alone use it!

When Nelly failed inspection last year, I went through the trouble of putting some money into him. Everyone, including my husband, thought that I was crazy, and that I should have scrapped him instead of fixing him. But today, an entire year later, I am reaping the benefit of what was thought to be a misguided investment. I can keep him a little while longer. I have time to find a really good car. Nelly is legal. I have WAY more money than I thought I was going to have in my pocket!!! What a blessing!

This seems like such a minor thing, I know. But I do know that God cares for and keeps His children, and He only wants what's best for them. Waiting on Him and being patient reaps great rewards. He protects us, keeps us, and preserves us. He is FAITHFUL.

I also understand that sometimes, it's best to hang in there and don't give up on things and people so easily. Every day of my life, I am learning a new lesson in this area.

I can hardly wait to see what He yet has in store for me; something tells me that my next car will be better, and much nicer than I had anticipated it to be!

Adrian

LOL

2008-01-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

OKAY...........somebody needs to make sure these "old guys" eat and get plenty of rest, especially when they know that they have to attend functions like these!

First it was Bill Clinton.........now, Ted Kennedy a few minutes ago.....and poor Cheney looks like he's just tryna hang in there! LOL I'm just sayin............

Adrian

WHAT'S NEW

2008-01-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

Well, Matthew started working on Monday. He says that he isn't doing much of anything at the moment. He will be getting his laptop next week, and says that he isn't in a hurry to obtain the cell phone that they are providing for him yet. I guess the cell phone puts him at "on-call" status, so whenever they need him, they can contact him to come out. I assured him that it is totally normal for it to be slow right now; I didn't start doing any "real" work until my third month of being here! LOL He just started; he has to give it time. I told him to enjoy these slow days!

He's a salaried worker, which means that he doesn't have to clock in and out, like I do. Sometimes, he has been coming home early. We'll see how things go from here; it's too early to tell.

My old car, Nelly, is up for inspection soon. I already know that he's not going to pass. Matthew and I are going to New Orleans next Saturday to borrow one of my brother's cars until we can figure out what we are going to do about my car situation. There is a voucher program that has been set in place here that gives the driver of an old, smoky car up to $3500 towards the purchase of a newer vehicle. The catches to that, though, are a) the car can't be older than a 2006; and b) the voucher must be used at one of the participating dealerships in the Houston area. In other words, I smell a car note coming on! I was excited about the prospect at first, but I really had to sit down and think about what sticky situation purchasing a car can put me in, especially since I am trying to pay down my debts through a consolidation agency. I cannot open any new accounts or apply for any new loans, and a car loan is a LOAN. I could go on Matt's name, but I want MY OWN car, not a car with someone else's name on it! Believe me, those arrangements between folks can get pretty ugly, and I don't want any part of that drama! I was thinking of just buying a newer model car in cash. I wanted to buy my brother's car, but he opted to let me borrow it instead (it is a Cadillac). He loves the car, and doesn't want to part with it. I understand that; I hate the idea of having to part with Nelly, too, but he's not going to last much longer. I am glad that he held up these three years! LOL

The girls' had good report cards; Nicolette and Maya had A's And B's. Angela didn't do as well (she barely passed), but the problem with her is that she knows how to do the work, but puts anything down on the paper so that she can hurry up to go play! Matt and I already told her that if she doesn't pass to the second grade, she will not go to see her grandma in Mississippi this summer. And we mean it, too!

At work, there have been a lot of resignations and transfers going on up here. There are now two morning spots available. Everyone keeps asking me if I'd like to take one of them, and my answer is always no. Matt has to work from 6 am to 2:30 PM, which means that I have to bring the kids to school in the morning. My girls are too young and vulnerable to be left alone to fend for themselves. That's why Matt and I make sure that whatever jobs we have will accommodate them, if possible. My mom never left me alone when I was a kid, and Matt's family always made sure that someone was there for him and his sisters when they were young. When they are older and are able to show me that they can handle a bit of freedom, then I will give them a bit of independence; but that time isn't now.

However, a senior is leaving this department. He found another job somewhere else in the city. He works evenings, and is off on Monday and Tuesday. I am considering applying for his open position. I have learned all that I can possibly learn where I am now, and a senior position increases my chances for advancement. There is still a lot of drama going on over there, though. I'm still thinking about it..............

Adrian

MATT'S PROCESSING DAY

2008-01-10T00:16:00.000-08:00

HACUNA MATATA!!!! LOL

"Exhausted" should also be a mood! LOL

Matt had to be at City Hall early this morning, 8 AM sharp, so we dropped the little ones off to school first, dropped him off downtown, and then I drove Nikki to school (she didn't have to be there until 8:30 AM). Everyone made it to their destinations on time. Mom called me last night to ask if I could run a few errands for her, so I went and did that this morning also. As SOON AS I was finished with her errand running and house cleaning, Matt calls telling me that he is ready to go! He wasn't supposed to be finished until 2:30; they let him out an hour early!!! So I had to FLY to downtown Houston, in our big ole Suburban, from Southwest Houston to pick him up. I still had errands to run for my own family. My little "mung bean" went along with me for those, to keep her mommy some much-needed company.

Matthew had taken his drug test, received all of his benefits information and paperwork, and the most important document, his "report for duty" slip! They won't be sending him back home THIS time! LOL

I was very interested in learning about what his pension plan is going to be like. The city of Houston offers those of us who are enrolled in the current plan, in my opinion, an excellent pension, which pays you about 2x of your current monthly salary if you retire when you should, and about the same and a half of your present salary should you decide to retire earlier, with all of your medical, dental, and vision benefits intact. Naturally, since the cost of living has gone up, and retirees are living longer, the plan that I am currently under has become quite expensive for the city to pay out. Lately, they have been doing a number of things, like bringing retirees out of retirement to work again (which is cheaper than paying them those fat pension checks), forcing people who are approaching retirement age to leave sooner and accept a lower pension payout, and, inmy husband's case, offer different pension plans for new hires. They just put the new pension plan into effect January 1, and, in typical city government fashion, they have no information yet on what the new plan is, and how it is going to work. All that I know is that his plan will be non-contributory. More to follow as the information becomes available.........LOL

I was supposed to wash and press the girls' hair, but I was just too tired. Plus, they just didn't want their hair washed and pressed today! I have their shampoo and conditioner, though. If I don't do it this week, I will probably do it next week. My hair needs to be washed, too. So much to do, so little time..........

Well, next Wednesday, at 6:30 AM, is Matt's first day on the job, so I'll probably write about how his day went. Good night!

Adrian

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2008-01-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

This was a very busy, very eventful holiday season for us.

We spent the Christmas holiday in Mississippi, visiting with my husband's relatives. We entertained a guest at our home for New Year's Day ( I cooked). The girls spent a night with my mom while I went to see Irvin Baxter, and Endtime minister, with my husband last night. I really enjoyed myself, and had a wonderful time in the Lord with everyone.

The city of Houston messed up; they called Matthew in to work without calling him in for processing first. This Wednesday, he will be processed at City Hall, and Wednesday of next week will be his first day with the City of Houston as a Traffic Systems Technician. I am SO excited for him! He is concerned because he will not receive his first full check on the eighteenth, but in the first week of February. He is still employed with the temp agency, though, and they are trying to find some fill-in work for him in the meantime. Anyone who knows me knows that it isn't important to me WHEN he starts, but that he is STARTING!!! LOL

The girls had a great Christmas; although money was tight in this household, they received nice gifts from the most unexpected places, and people! HISD found a way to connect with an agency that was able to provide FREE BIKES for EVERY CHILD in the school district! All three of my babies, as well as every HISD school child, got a brand-new bike! Nicolette's aunt gave her a new MP3 player! The girls got a ton of much-needed clothes from the in-laws, and some toys. I bought Nicolette her first "grown-up" perfume set (A Tommy Girl gift set that was marked down for the Wal-Mart after-Christmas sale). I also managed to get the younger girls some nice marked-down items. It wasn't what they asked me for, but they already know what the situation is; they were grateful for what I was able to give them.

I was reading over all of my journal entries a few weeks ago, and I literally surprised myself at how honest, candid, and HOPEFUL I am! LOL I tell ya, I can't make it without hope. Hope sustains me, and faith is just the evidence, the fruition of what was already hoped!

Happy New Year to all! Expect GREAT things to take place in 2008!!!!

Adrian

READY TO GO

2007-12-14T20:17:00.000-08:00

AOL managed to fix the problem with finding the journals; I finally have access to my private one.

Since my last post, my husband has been receiving job offers from EVERYWHERE! LOL And he managed to find "bridge" work until he starts working for the city December 31st. Getting the job is great, but he still needed to earn some money in the meantime! LOL He likes this temp gig that he has, too. They are paying him what he is worth, and once their work is finished, no matter how early or late, they go home!

Now, I am ready to start thinking about where I would like to move. All of those thoughts were at a standstill here for awhile, naturally, because of money issues. We really, really need more space. Nicolette needs her own room, and the kids just need more space, period. We ALL need more space! LOL I want to rent a nice place now, and by the time we are ready to buy a home, our debt should be totally, if not all, paid off. I joke with my husband a lot, telling him that in a few years, after paying off these debts, the realtors will be knocking our door down trying to sell us a home! I want to be in a position where we aren't limited in our choices in which to live. And we want to find the perfect home, one that will meet all of our needs. Well, hopefully, we will be moving to a bigger apartment by the summertime.

I was going to try and buy another car next year, but one of our neighbors, a mechanic, begged me not to get rid of my car, promising me that he could keep Nelly running! So far, so good; Nelly is running fine! I guess I will be holding on to my old car for a little while longer, which is good, because I really don't want a car note right now. I don't want ANY unnecessary debts, for that matter. I am determined to pare down this debt, which isn't much, compared to most. I can wait a few more years.

Well, it's getting close to the time for me to clock out...........G'night, y'all!

Adrian

THE DEBT-FREE ROAD

2007-12-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

I am happy to announce that I have three accounts paid off so far! Yippee!

It isn't an easy road, though. It was easy to get into debt, but very, very difficult to get out of. And participating in a debt-management agency is no picnic; I still have to contact my creditors to obtain balance updates. It is shameful that companies pay peope to be overly mean, rude and obnoxious for no reason at all.

Regardless of the cruel creditors, I am determined to be debt-free by the age of 40. And with three creditors paid off, my dream is slowly but surely becoming a reality.

Oh, I almost forgot...........

Finally, Matthew has a new job! A STABLE job!!! A PERMANENT job!!! A job with BENEFITS!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!!

Matthew will be starting his new job as a Technical Hardware Analyst/Traffic Signal Maintenance Technician ("signal-light man," LOL) at the end of this month, for the city!!! I am SO HAPPY for him, and I am really, really hoping that, besides a salary, that he will really enjoy his job as much as I enjoy mine!

Adrian

CHANGES

2007-11-30T13:19:00.000-08:00

Wow.

AOL changed the people connection page, and now I cannot find my private journal! LOL

I switched servers a long time ago, because my husband wanted DSL, but I still kept up with this journal because I have recorded so much about my life post-Katrina in it.

What I fail to understand about AOL is that the administrators really seem to get a kick out of frustrating their customers. This is ridiculous.

Luckily for me, I have copied and pasted a link to this journal to both servers I use (the one here at work, and at home). I guess that I won't be updating my private journal anymore. Oh, well.....time to create another private one somewhere else, I guess.........

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2007-11-22T14:23:00.000-08:00

Christian Glitter by www.christianglitter.com

My dinner is a SUCCESS! Ham, turkey roast, mustard greens, rice, baked macaroni, cornbread dressing, sweet potato, apple and pecan pies!!! I won't have to cook for oh, at least a week....LOL Everything came out perfectly, and the girls helped this year! How is YOUR Thanksgiving?

Adrian

JUVIE PAS DEUX

2007-11-19T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today was Nicolette's day in court. She pled guilty to the disruption charge. Instead of paying the fine, she agreed to do community service. Her assignment? To attend a two-hour workshop on the first Wednesday in December. Once she's completed that, we return to court, show proof that she attended and completed her assignment, and her "criminal record" will be wiped out. I told her that she was blessed! I reminded her to thank God for the favor that has been shown to her today. The sentencing officer told us that he can tell when a kid is trouble at the first look, and he didn't feel that she was one of those kinds of kids.

I was ready today; I brought her report card, and I told them how far she has come along since we first arrived here in Houston. Anything to help her; I mean, she was acting in self-defense! But I, and the sentencing officer made it VERY CLEAR to Nicolette that we didn't want to see her in court EVER AGAIN. She got the message!

I am really enjoying my week off! I spent this weekend with my mom, watching movies with her and the kids, and managed to run some errands for her. My mom lives in south Houston, and I live in north Houston. A drive to her house can take from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the traffic! It's nice not to have to feel rushed, and to be able to enjoy her company without having to worry about going to work the next day! Sunday, I was able to wear one of my nicer outfits to church, and caught the entire service! I fixed dinner that evening, too! Usually, I have to fix dinner on Saturday morning before going to work, fix the girls' hair Saturday night, go to church Sunday morning, and leave from church straight to work! I didn't realize how much I have been burning the candle on both ends!

Oh, and we didn't go to New Orleans this weekend, which is fine. Nobody had any money, anyway! LOL My sister-in-law had to re-schedule the baby dedication because her husband had to work some overtime. So that gives me plentyof time to either make or buy some cute little outfits for lil' niecie, and to save enough money for gas and fun while we are down there! I don't like the idea of going to New Orleans without any money to spend; at the very least, I've got to get some beignets and cafe au-lait! LOL

Well, now I'm going to finish my grocery list for this week. I will be fixing the usual Thanksgiving fare: ham, a turkey roast (for my spoiled baby daughter who doesn't want ham, LOL), cornbread dressing, baked macaroni, mustard greens, sweet potato pies, pecan pie, and all of the sweet tea and fruit punch we can drink! Mmmmm, mmmmmm!!!! LOL

Adrian

P.S. Hello, Tim! <3

LATE NIGHT REFLECTIONS

2007-11-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

My husband wanted meatloaf for dinner tonight. I fixed meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Everyone said that the food tasted fine; however, I thought that the meatloaf was a little too oily (I should have drained the drippings). How the dinner will affect everyone's stomachs remains to be seen, LOL. I will probably drain the oil from what's left over tomorrow; I am just too tired to do it now.

Angela is really trying hard to catch up in many of her school subjects. Of course, this means extra homework, later nights, frustration headaches and strained brains for all of us. But both of my older daughters had to go through this, so Angie is no exception. I remember times when I felt like all that we were doing to help Nicolette was HOPELESS, because she never seemed to be "getting it." Now I am able to look back and see that because I refused to give up on her, and we kept trying even though it seemed like we weren't getting anywhere, the effort was worth it. She finally "got it." Some kids just take more time to catch on than others do, but what matters is not WHEN, but that they finally do.

The holidays are approaching, and folks are using their vacation time, which means that more overtime is available. Good for me, because I need as much extra money as I can possibly earn! I am already shopping for the girls' and my family's Christmas gifts; that way, when the holidays arrive, I can just sit back, relax, and enjoy, because I'm done! Did I mention that I am automatically off for Christmas AND New Year's?!? (My off days fall on BOTH holidays! Woo Hoo!!!)

........I'll be home for Christmas.............LOL

I started a savings account with ING Direct last month. I am so excited! It's not much, but every little bit helps. I am also going to open up a savings account for little Maya Moneybags this month (she wants to save her report card money towards college; smart kid!), and I am thinking about starting a mutual funds account next year. Not only does ING have many financial services available, but they also provide information on how all of the stuff works. And unlike other banks, they don't charge you ANYTHING to sign up! All that they need is your initial deposit, and/or your minimal investment amount for your mutual fund. There are other investment packages available, but unlike other banks that charge you different minimums for each account they offer, ING's minimum is the same for ALL of the accounts that they offer! I am not limited to how or what kind of investments I want to make. Pretty cool, huh?

This weekend, Nicolette and I are going to buy some holiday dresses for my little niece before all of the cute things are gone! LOL We are going to New Orleans next weekend, so I'll update anyone who's still interested in this blog on what's happening down there. I'm gonna get some sleep now; I can feel myself drifting off.

Adrian

JUVIE

2007-10-27T19:55:00.000-07:00

Nicolette had a fight with another girl at school last week. She was given a three-day in-school suspension, while the other girl received a three-day at-home suspension.

Problem solved, right?

This morning, after asking me if I had decided to register her in the system to start paying for her New York City trip (I already told her and her teacher that I was going to do it Friday, but my gut was telling me to wait until Monday to decide), Maya or Angela found Nicolette's SUMMONS to appear in COURT!

Apparently, a school officer gave it to her when the fight took place, but she failed to tell me and her father. She was going to wait until I registered her for the trip, or probably wouldn't have given me the summons at all! I am glad that the girls found it and gave it to me now, instead of never receiving it, missing the court date, and a warrant would have been issued for her ARREST!

Nicolette claims that she was acting in self-defense. Whoever handled this apparently thought so, too, that's why she got an in-school suspension. But the fact of the matter is, she could have handled this better than she did. Instead of letting the teachers know that the girl was harassing her, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

What is wrong with tweens and teens? I ask her EVERY DAY "How was school?" and "Is anyone harassing you?" and her answer is always "Fine," and "No." I asked her why she didn't tell me or her dad what was going on, she says, "I don't know." I have to ask her these questions, since she is still seeing the therapist for her ADD, and I have to report her behavior to him. I told her that we cannot help her if she doesn't tell us anything! And I feel that I have more than proven to her that I will be there for her, whatever happens! She shouldn't have to feel like she has to handle these things herself!

And guess how much the fine will be if she is charged? $308 DOLLARS!!!!!! Where in the heck am I going to get that kind of money from?!? And I already put in off for that weekend (Saturday and Sunday, to go to New Orleans), so today I had to ask for another vacation day to go with her to court on Monday! WTH?!?

Ironically, this is the same girl who made the HONOR ROLL this semester all by herself (she is going on a special school trip for honor roll students on Friday; I had to spot her about $20), and has been chosen as an "understudy" for the Christmas "Nutcracker" play.

I chose not to register her for the trip to New York. How the heck am I going to scratch together $308 only heaven knows. But she did get her spending money, and a pair of boots that I promised her. Rewards and punishment all in one stroke. I have THREE girls, Lord. Am I going to make it?!?

Adrian

OTC WONDER DRUG?

2007-10-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

Last year, at about the same time, and before EV (emergency vacation) was available to me, I was out sick for two days because of severe sinus congestion. Since then, I had been taking better care of myself by eating properly, dressing warmly in this freezing building, taking my allergy medicine faithfully, getting my flu shot, using a headset instead of the universal handsets in the office, washing my hands regularly, and using hand sanitizer. But a cold virus is in the air, and I felt my sinuses succumbing to it.

The local news already warned folks that there wasn't much the doctor could do for the people flocking into the clinics for a "cure" to this thing.

I saw a commercial for this product one evening, claiming that if you use it at the onset of sinus congestion, it will help prevent it. Rather than waste a co-pay and a parking fee for the doc to send me home empty-handed, I figure I'd try my luck with this stuff first.

It isn't cheap; a 1/2 ounce bottle cost me $13, plus tax! And using it feels like you are spraying pepper mace up your nose, but it WORKS.

I am breathing freely. This spray used along with the Claritin is keeping my nasal passages opened. I can sleep at night, and I don't have to miss work!!!! Plus, it works for a full 12 HOURS. You only have to use it once or twice a day, depending on the severity of your sinus congestion.

I HIGHLY recommend this product for the cold and flu season. If nothing else is working, and if you can feel that sinus headache starting up, please try this. Trust me, it's worth every penny! What have you got to lose?

Adrian