Congrats Grad

My cousin Derek graduated with his AA degree this past week and his parents threw a little get together to celebrate his accomplishment. I'm so proud of him because honestly Derek didn't think school was for him. He also had a couple of very difficult classes this last semester and was beginning to doubt himself. I gave him a few pep talks, encouraging him not to give up. Aristotle said, "The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet" and Derek is living proof of that.

I pray this is just the beginning of his academic career

Sometimes I think we forget how important an education is. I would never forget the words Dr. Ben Carson spoke at my commencement ceremony from Southern. He said if everything he had today was taken from him it would be okay because he knew he could get it all back because the one thing they couldn't take was the knowledge and skill he possessed.

Congrats again Derek and good luck as you start basic training in a few weeks and your BS program in January

Aren't the little ones in my family growing up so fast and just as beautiful?!

A funny thing happened on the way to the port…

I went to Florida a day before I was scheduled to leave for my cruise. I wanted to spend time with one of my favorite cousins Lisa plus, I didn’t want the hustle and bustle of rushing to the port (remember this statement) right after flying in.

Our first plane ride together

On Saturday night we had an awesome dinner at Grand Luxe Café by the Saw Grass Mall and of course I ordered my favorite, the Cedar Planked BBQ Salmon and I even got Lisa’s husband Anthony to try it and he definitely liked it.

Lisa & Anthony

To make our dinner even better my bestie Sheree and god daughter Kennedy were able to join us since they were on vacation in Fort Lauderdale too.

She sucks her thumb!

Finally it’s the morning of our cruise!! I did what I normally do first thing in the morning and checked my phone. I opened an email from Carnival that said if you have flexible travel plans arrive at the port between 2 and 3:30pm. That was perfect since Lisa and Anthony had to go to church that morning anyway. Once they got home, Nelson and Anthony went back on the street to run a few errands then we were off to Ft. Lauderdale port.

As we were driving to the port, Lisa kept pointing out that she has never left for a cruise from the Ft. Lauderdale port. She even ran down a list of people she has taken to meet the ship and not one of them left from there either. I heard her talking the whole time but I wasn’t really paying attention to what she was saying. I was too excited, flirting, and playing googly eyes with Nelson after not seeing him for a while. Not once did I think to check the paperwork in my purse.

We pulled up to port security and the officer asked what ship we were here for. I piped up from the back seat, “Carnival Valor”. He replied, “Carnival Freedom”. Without batting an eye, I repeated,”No Carnival Valor”. I was getting annoyed at this point and basically gave the officer the check your paperwork look when I should have been checking mine. After the officer reviewed his clipboard he confirmed that the Carnival Valor was NOT leaving from Ft. Lauderdale. I finally checked my green folder and I was suppose to be at the Port of Miami!

At this point it’s after 3:10 and I’m in a total panic. I call the emergency Carnival hotline and they said the latest I could get to port and still make it on is 3:45 but here’s the kicker… the port of Miami is 40-45 mins away. I’m freaking out and almost burst in to tears at the thought of ruining Nelson’s vacation not to mention how embarrassed I am. Thank God Lisa married Anthony who must have been a Nascar driver in his former life because he got us there safely and with time to spare. Nelson thought getting there late was the best thing ever since there were no lines and getting through was a cinch. I beg to differ… I never want that type of stress and worry again.

After getting over the shock and fear of almost messing up my vacation I was able to take it all in and look forward to my 7 days of R and R!

The first full day of our ocean voyage was spent on the sea. We spent the day on the adults only Serenity deck soaking up the sun while reading and napping.

Later on that night we got all dolled up for elegant night where we enjoyed a fantastic meal

There's always a lil towel creature waiting for us at the end of the night

MLK weekend

I headed to (where else) DC this weekend. I only had Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off so I decided it would be best if I took the bus. It was my first experience on Bolt and the ride was kind of cool. The bus was equipped with Wi-Fi and outlets so I was more than entertained. I came in to Union Station and instead of just catching a cap and heading home to wait for Nelson as originally planned, I found him waiting for me right outside and to make it better he had the rest of the afternoon off… YAY!

One of his best friends, his cousin and her baby, and his aunt also came to visit so we had fun filled weekend.

Saturday afternoon Nelson suggested we go to a restaurant he took me to when I came down Christmas week.

Eatonville is a Zora Neale Hurston inspired restaurant named after her hometown, the first black town in America. You may remember it from Their Eyes Were Watching God.

They don’t have the most extensive menu so I got the same thing as last time, fried chicken with mac & cheese, and cornbread and it was goooood.
I love their lemonade served in drinking jars. The only down fall is there are no free refills… no bueno.

Move over Nelson... I found a new man! I ♥ Baby Josh and he ♥ me too

On Sunday we went to everyone’s favorite breakfast spot Eggspectations. I even got to stay till Monday and drove back with Nelson’s people

This weekend was filled with laughter and storytelling and even though I didn’t get to stay as long as I normally do, it was still worth it

His family weekend

This is the first time in quite a while that I've been off for the weekend and actually stayed in New York. I planned to go to church on Sabbath and have lunch with the big homie Greg because the boyfriend wasn't scheduled to be in town till Sunday morning but to my surprise he came on Friday night. *big smiles*

Saturday morning we drove Midnight to the Poconos accompanied by his oldest niece and sister to celebrate his niece Haley's 11th birthday. It was so great meeting the rest of his nieces and nephews and watching them climb all over him, referring to Nelson as their favorite uncle.

Although I'm not one for snow, I had to admit our surroundings were beautiful

Even Midnight enjoyed the snow

As you can see I'm not exactly dressed weather appropriate but I couldn't pass on this photo op

The next day we went to a Bronx SDA church banquet planned by Nelson's father. Now, I haven't been to a church banquet in over 10 years but it was nice getting pretty, connecting with his family and of course spending time with him.

Thanksgiving 2010 weekend recap

Thanksgiving is my all time favorite holiday! Not because of the food (although it's a close second) but because of the family I'm surrounded by. My grandmother passed away Thanksgiving week 7 years ago so it's only right we commemorator her memory every year by doing what she always encouraged: for us to always remain close, keep in touch and always remember that no matter what, we're family.

This year was extra special because my older brother Dean and his family was able to come to NY. They haven't been here for Thanksgiving since 2005 when Dylan was only 6 months. This was my first Thanksgiving without my little brother David. I'm so sad he missed out this year because of work but having his daughter Niyah here made things better.

On Saturday, our cousin Jr invited us over to his house on Long Island to just hang out since Dean isn't in town with his tribe (his wife and kids) that often. He cooked us a delicious meal and I enjoyed listening to the stories and memories my brother and cousins shared of growing up in Jamaica where my grandmother had them under heavy manners (a Jamaican saying meaning heavy discipline and punishment). I love hearing things about grandma that I didn't know before.

Jr had his Christmas tree up and we couldn't help but have a little photo shoot with the kids

Even my sister in law J'nyne and cousin Dawn got in on the fun

My cousin Jr and his girlfriend Anita

Nelson came to NY for the weekend making everything even better. He got a chance to meet my brother and cousins and everyone seemed to like him. We were so inspired by Jr's beautiful Christmas tree we decided to buy one when I go to DC next week. I can't wait!!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and I'm thankful for each and every one of you, my readers. Now click the follow button..lol!

My new addition/ Letter to my precious Blush

I would like to introduce you to the newest addition to our now 4 car deep Geico bill…lol.. Midnight. It’s my new (to me) 2010 Acura TSX. My little brother David took the car my dad has been driving to Philadelphia with him so it left us one car short. I’ve been driving my 1998 Camry, Blush, since 2004 and David and my father, two years before that so I just thought it was time for a little upgrade. I’ll be driving him to DC tomorrow so I’ll give you a full review then.

To my precious Blush,

Don't think I've forgotten all the years you've been good to me. I've never met such a loyal and dependable automobile in all my life. We've had some hard times but you've proven yourself over and over again. From New York to Tennessee to Hunstville and Atlanta for weekends. All over the state of Florida then back to New York again. I love you and I'm happy you're still apart of our family. Thanks for granting me my independence and allowing for great times along the way!

Labor Day weekend

This past weekend I hopped on the greyhound and rode to Washington DC to visit an old but new friend for a few days. I was exhausted after working 3 nights straight so driving wasn't an option. Taking the greyhound wasn't bad at all. It was kind of nice just sitting for 4 hours and not having to battle traffic.

Friday evening we ate at a cute little vintage pizza bistro in China Town called matchbox. I absolutely loved the space and design. They even have an outdoor deck that would be perfect for a breezy summer night. We had the 3.6.9 mini burgers as an appetizer and the chicken pesto pizza for dinner. It was ok considering my friend promised me it would the best thing ever. He actually said that about pretty much everything he wanted me to try this weekend...lol. We hung out at home for the rest of the night (on the most comfortable couch ever) watching Season 3 of Dexter. He's trying to get me caught up since Season 5 starts in a few weeks.

Saturday night we went to see "Mr. Steal Your Girl", my baby daddy, Trey Songz, perform at Constitution Hall. Monica opened the show and I was quite impressed... the girl can blow!! I also enjoyed her background singers and dancers who kept the crowd going as she changed outfits. I forgot what a fan of hers I am as I rocked with her from 'Just One of Dem Days' to 'So Gone' to 'Love All Over Me'. Trey did his thing (OF COURSE!!). I can't wait for his new CD, Passion, Pain and Pleasure to come out next week. He did a number of new tracks at the concert and I'm already in love. I was so jealous of the girl he brought on stage for the massage *sigh* maybe next time...lol. We ended the night at Lux Lounge for a little dancing and a few drinks.

Sunday we headed to MD to my Uncle Willy's house for a BBQ. Nothing beats family, BBQ hot dogs and Beres Hammond playing in the background. Later on that night I finally got to see Takers and I loved it. Just think Set it Off, Ocean's 11 and the Italian Job all rolled into one. Let's not forget the cast of some of the finest men ever...lol.

Unfortunately Monday rolled around and after brunch at an Ihop in VA, it was time to head back home to NY. I had a really good weekend and can't wait to see ummm... DC again in a couple of weeks...lol

Rollercoaster of life

On this journey called life I've always been fortunate enough to have my brothers by my side and that thought didn't cross my mind until I was sitting in between them on the SheiKra roller-coaster at Busch Gardens. My younger brother David is terrified of coasters but of course my oldest brother forced him on as I teased him for being a punk. For most of his life, that's what Dean's role has been, telling David what to do while I provoke and laugh at him from a safe distance.

As we made our way up the incline slowly, my excitement began to escalate. I started squealing with anticipation and gave David's arm a little squeeze, hoping he was enjoying the build as much as I was. It made me think of times in my life when I just know something good is going to happen, when I get that feeling of this is it and the first person I call is him. I looked over at David and his expression read, "I don't know what you smiling for because I know what's to come." This is normally the same reaction I get when I talk to him of the "good vibe I'm getting". He's there to help me see the big picture, remind me not to get too excited, and to always hope for the best but expect the worst.

As we reached the top of the hill my stomach dropped and panic took over as the coaster made the right turn and dropped to the ground below. I turned to Dean at this point as I would often do in my real life. When things seem out of control, I'm scared and things are moving too fast, he's the one able to give me soothing words of encouragement always ready to protect me, reminding me everything in life is a lesson learned.

I'm able to enjoy every loop, roll, u-turn, flat spin and brake run this SheiKra of life has to offer me. No matter the 90 degree drop, if I'm suspended above air, or come across a surprise twist, I have my brothers by my side and that's what I need in this roller coaster we call life.

So I lied...

So I lied. I said I was going to blog everyday of my vacation but that didn't happen. In fact I'm blogging about it weeks after the fact... sue me!!

All that matter is that I had a wonderful time with my family. I got to hang out with my two crazy cousins, Lauren and Janelle and Lauren's boyfriend Calvin the Brain...lol

I was able to suffocate my nieces and nephew and I got to witness really how great my brothers are as fathers...

all while watching dolphins, touching sting rays, swimming, hanging poolside, hoping to get splashed by Shamoo, riding roller-coasters, sharing whispers with my sister in law, eating like the beast I am, and of course sipping on things that make me giggle. I even got to see one of the first friends I made when I lived in Fl, Philip. I was even lucky enough to be around when you got his acceptance phone call into nursing school (congrats again).

And how could I forget heading down to South FL to help my cousin Lisa celebrate her graduation from her Physician's Assistant program. I also got to stay in her beautiful new home. The time we spend together is never enough and I hope to see her again soon.

I can't wait until next summer to make some new memories with some of my favorite people.

Orlando... over 2 years later

I landed in a place I called home for over two years today... Orlando. Stepping out into the airport evoked feelings of nostalgia. When I lived here and would return from visiting New York, sadness normally filled my heart. I often would have to hold back tears thinking back on the few days I spent in NY and all the loved ones I left behind. Now returning over 2 1/2 years later, I'm consumed with a different set of emotions. I'm excited and can't wait to see what this week holds for me. I'm looking forward to hanging out with my cousin Lauren that I became awfully close with during my time in Florida, I'll be able to spend an entire week with both brothers at the same time and most importantly I get to smother and spoil my 3 nieces and nephew rotten.

This week is a chance for me to become rejuvenated, a chance to focus on the things in life most important to me and just leave the worries of life alone... even though it's just for a week.

So all of you stuck home in these last week weeks of summer, I'm inviting you to partake in my vacation along with me. I'm going to TRY to blog as much as possible since I've been seriously slacking and I should have the time and energy to write here... but PLEASE, PLEASE don't hold your breath...lol

Breath of Fresh Air

This past weekend I headed to Maryland to visit my dad's side of the family. A few days before it was time to go I really wanted to back out. There was so many parties and events going on in NY and I hated that I was going to miss them, especially since I haven't been doing much this summer. Nevertheless I hate to disappoint my dad so after I got home from work, I got my hair straighted, hit the road and I'm very happy I did.

My dad is one of 9 children and 5 of them live in MD and I admire how close they are. I love visiting and being around so much family at once and it's so heart warming that regardless of the last time I saw or spoke to them, things pick up where we left off. Most of my time was spent with my cousin Paula. She's about 2 years older than I am and we've never been particularly close but this visit might of changed that. We have a lot in common, like similar things, share certain behaviors, and even have the same experiences with men... go figure...lol.

I even linked up with 2 old friends of my mine from Westchester Area School. These are guys that I've know since Pre-K. We hung out Saturday and Sunday night and they showed me a real good time out in DC.

This weekend was such a breath of fresh air. It took me out of my mundane day to day activities and allowed me to be surrounded by family, fun and tons of food (too much to be honest). I feel so refreshed and this should tie me over until I hit FL and the end of August.

The only thing I regret is not taking a single picture...smh :-/

30 years of marriage

*Singing* Do you know what today is... It's my parents' anniversary! So I altered the words a little, you get the point. 30 years ago today my parents jumped the broom and became one, well actually three (my older brother Dean was already on the scene). I picked this picture because I think it really embodies the nature of their relationship: daddy with his arms around Dean, accepting him in his life as his own, daddy with his eyes closed, pretending or actually ignoring the antics of mommy, and mommy with her arm around daddy always trying to be in control and her smile (which I get for her) which translates into grin and bear it regardless of the circumstance.

They share a love that I hope to have one day... not a perfect love (because it's DEFINITELY not that...lol) but one that is accepting, always compromising, real, and most importantly endures all things.

I hope they enjoy their anniversary gift my brothers and I got them, a Hawaiian cruise, they will take in September.

Happy Anniversary Mommy and Daddy

I wish you two 30 more years together!

30 years later, youngest granddaughter in tow

A star was born...

Jay says, every day a star is born and my star was born yesterday, 15 years ago. Everyone who knows me understands what a big part of my life Kaylah is. I remember the first day I met her she was about 6 months old and she captured my heart immediately with her big bright eyes. When my grandmother moved in with us, Kaylah came along too and I was in heaven. It was like she was my daughter. I took her EVERYWHERE with me: church, shopping with my friends, the park, hairdresser ANYWHERE. She was so well behaved, cute, and precocious. Everyone loved her and always wanted her around.

Years later when Kaylah had to move back in with her mom I was heartbroken and actually cried. Thank God she would still spend entire summers and all holidays in the Bronx with my family.

Now my lil Kay- Kay isn't so little anymore. She is 15 years old with a big personality. She loves to laugh and be silly (as you can see in the pictures below). What I love about her is she isn't afraid to be herself. She embraces her uniqueness and is comfortable in her own skin. Even though she can be a smart ass at times (I guess that comes with being a teenager) I still love her.

Happy Birthday K!!

Niyah's 1st Birthday Party

My youngest niece Niyah, David's daughter, turned one last month but her birthday bash was held on Sunday in New Jersey. At first I thought it was ridiculous throwing a big birthday party for a 1 year old who wouldn't remember a thing. Her mother Patience explained it was a Nigerian custom that the first birthday be a huge celebration. I still wasn't convinced until I saw the love that filled the room yesterday.

Niyah is lucky to be apart of two cultures with rich history and customs but she's blessed to have so many people in her life that love her.