Thoughts on Parenting - this Mother's Day.

I've got a mom.

Yep.

Her name is Mae.

She lives in Georgia.

I talk to her for a few minutes most days.

She had me when she was 22 years old.

I grew up in Macon.

Mom's never been truly sick, so I don't have a sob story of how she overcame her condition.

Mom's never suffered a chemical dependency (unless you count dexatrim and diet coke in the 80s.)

i just noticed i am writing in choppy sentences.

Here's the thing - my mom and I had a very tumultuous relationship.

What I mean by that - we fought like cats and dogs.

I don't remember a lot of arguing at all in my early years. I do remember her stress level hitting an all time high when my sister was still sleeping in a crib. Perhaps having to raise two small children, while her husband worked really long hours with very little pay was trying. Now that I am 37, I can only imagine what a young woman in her mid-20's was trying to do.

She had dreams. Sure. She wanted to model. She wanted to paint. She wanted to go to art school. She wanted to be an interior designer. That's about all I know.

I remember her taking her anger out on me sometimes. Not physically. Verbally.

I am sure she was VERY frustrated. I get that. And I forgive her.

I remember her volunteering at the dance studio I took classes at. She would help sew costumes, paint sets, do the "books" - all so that my sister and I could take classes.

I remember her volunteering with the local children's theater, eventually landing a position on the board - and in turn, my sister and I were offered theater classes (which we would otherwise not be able to afford.)

I remember her becoming the Girl Scout leader of Troop 222.

I remember her becoming my PTA president.

She was definitely a joiner - for someone who did not have many "close" girl friends (at least none that I remember.)

She did A LOT so that my sister and I could experience a lot.

I also remember her frustration over why her oldest daughter would "lose her breath" and feel dizzy so often. Looking back, panic disorder was not something anyone seemed to know anything about - perhaps it scared her. Perhaps she thought I was making it up to get attention - but it was definitely something we argued about.

I remember her feeling overly concerned for the teens I hung out with in high school. She always accused me of smoking, or drinking or doing drugs or even engaging in sexual activity. Perhaps she was scared. Perhaps she was judging a new generation of kids who dressed different, and listened to different music. Perhaps she was just afraid.

For anyone who knows me - I have never put a cigarette to my mouth - ever. I did not engage in sexual activity as a teen ager, nor did I drink or do drugs. Heck, anyone of my many boyfriends (who always dumped me because I would not do any one of those things) could attest to that.

I remember her getting upset over my failing grade in math. She thought I was not applying myself. Perhaps she was afraid I would never succeed. Little did we know (until I got into college - and was tested) that I have a learning disability in Math - called a General Arithmetic Disorder. Also, as an adult, I have recognized that I have a form of dyslexia with numbers. Of course - I was able to slide through the system and get a university degree with this issue.

Looking back - I wonder how I would have reacted to all of these issues with my child. Not sure. Will never know.

My mother has a very strong personality. She IS the boss in anything she chooses to do. Your typical capricorn. I, on the other hand - am an aquarius.

She has very strong opinions. She is very judgemental. She is very critical and expects nothing less than the absolute best from me.

It was hard living up to her expectations. She rarely, if ever, says she is proud.

The word "love" is not passed around our home.

I know she did her best. That's all any of us do. I don't think people intentionally chose to make mistakes.

With all of the fighting - I did learn a lot from her. I thought I would list the top ten things I learned from her:

1. To get involved. If there is something you are interested in - join!

2. Creativity is the way to go!

3. Good food, cinema and books are essential to good living.

4. Say what you mean - mean what you say.

5. Don't take Sh*t from anyone.

6. Make your own decisions.

7. The beach is waaaay cooler than the mountains.

8. Animals are great! Pets make a happier home.

9. Vampires and the horror genre rock!

10. Halloween is super fun and only home made costumes should win the prize!

As for me - why am I not a parent?

I have two theories:

1. I am selfish. I do not like feeling like someone/something needs me. It freaks me out.

2. My own mother complained about how ungrateful a child I was (daily) and how she sacrificed so much for me and in turn did without. (I think early on.. that taught me that motherhood is a wretched experience.)

Whatever the reason - it does not matter.

I believe that God is in control. If I were meant to be a mom, I would have been a mom. I also believe I have the mom I have today for a reason.

Trust me - she is a decent person. It's just that "moms" and "mothers day" was never a warm/fuzzy/holiday idea for me.

Do I think mother's should feel special? Absolutely. Do I think my mom did the best she could? Definitely.

Do I wish I were a mom? Absolutely not.

With that - I do hope that my friends, family, and readers that are proud mothers and feel that life is completely fulfilled by being a mom - I am soooo happy for you. Sincerly.


As for me - who knows what fulfills me?! Perhaps that's why my Destination is still Unknown.

PS - I want to CLAIRFY - I would not trade my mother in for another. Not one. She created me. My experiences and life are what makes me - me.

Cheeseburgar Smile!

This morning I woke up a very satisfied girl.

Ironically enough, I thought I would start sharing what made me super happy last week (and posting this every Sunday).. when lo and behold my friend at Bons Vivants is doing the exact same thing! :-) Great minds think alike.

I have always wanted to figure out something I could do weekly. Most blogs have their niche.. and it was time for mine.

Listing the items that make this girl SMILE is a great give back to myself, my friends, and God!

Just a little happy list.. nothing more.

With out further ado..

THINGS THAT MADE ME SMILE THIS PAST WEEK:

1. Spending the day with the egyptian in Atlanta yesterday - visiting the Georgia Rennaisance Festival. (We held hands.. it was sweet. ;-) )

2. Getting my face painted at the Renn Fest. I felt like a little girl again.

3. Eating fried ice cream at the festival. hee hee

4. Watching a joust, and seeing the egyptian smile over how "cool" he thought it all was.

5. Seeing my friend, Telisa, at the festival. Telisa lives in Georgia and I have not seen her since December.

6. Watching "Breaking Point" at the festival. The show was hilarious.

7. Traveling to Douglasville to attend a cook out with my co-workers Sherelle and Tommie. I have not had grilled food in soooo long.

8. That leads me to - the best damned grilled chicken I have had in soooo long. The sausage was not bad either!

9. Having a virgin strawberry daiquiri. (I had to quit drinking back in October due to some meds I am on.) It was nice to partake of an old yummy drink, without all of the alcohol. Weird for me.. but good.

10. Watching as the Go Red For Women Luncheon was executed perfectly on Friday.

11. Watching the movie the Loser's with my husband. It was actually cute.

12. Coming home to a perfectly cleaned home - again- a big shout out to the egyptian!

13. The egyptian getting a new job!!!!!!!!!!

14. Meeting an amazing neurologist and executing a perfect radio interview!

15. Handling a sensitive situation at work, and getting told I handled it well!

16. My baked chicken!

17. The view from "The Club" - I could see all of Birmingham at night and the next day. An excellent view always makes me smile.

18. Surviving a tough "event" week at work.

19. Over the Mountain Journal sending the editor to Luncheon to do a feature.

20. Meeting Barbara Dooley.

21. Watching as the Television interview on Tuesday went perfectly!

22. Having lunch with Kristen (from ABC) at Firebirds.

23. Giving my sister good advice, and believing she just might take it.

24. Going for a little treat at Yougurt Mountain.

25. Getting a small portion of income tax back.

26. Buying a NEW, well fitted bra.

27. Getting a massage.

28. The peacock ring!

29. Purchasing a cute new skirt and heels for the summer.

30. Free tickets to the Renn Fest

31. Hearing that my parents had a relaxing, good day.

32. The weather is perfect.

33. Paying off some old bills.

34. Buying a new book - Firefyl Lane by Kristen Hannah

35. Finally - having my blog friends comment! You guys are seriously the best!

Scenes from this week:

Ouch!

See those tools above? Those tools are what is used in a female circumcision in many countries.

Some of you may not be aware that this even exists. But it does it. Honestly, it needs to stop.

What is female circumcision? It is any procedure involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs "whether for cultural, religious or other non-therapeutic reasons."

It is practiced throughout the world, concentrated most heavily in Asia and Africa.

I am a visual learner - so, let me show you the four different types of procedures that are used:

Type I

The World Health Organization defines Type I  as the partial or total removal of the clitoris (clitoridectomy) and/or the prepuce (clitoral hood).; In the context of women who seek out labiaplasty, there is disagreement among doctors as to whether to remove the clitoral hood in some cases to enhance sexuality or whether this is too likely to lead to scarring and other problems.


 Type II


The WHO's definition of Type II is "partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without excision of the labia majora.



Type III: Infibulation with excision


The WHO defines Type III FGM as narrowing of the vaginal orifice with creation of a covering seal by cutting and repositioning the labia minora and/or the labia majora, with or without excision of the clitoris . This is the most popular form and accounts for about 10% of all procedures described from Africa.



In a study of infibulation in the Horn of Africa, it was observed that the procedure involves extensive tissue removal of the external genitalia, including all of the labia minora and the inside of the labia majora.

The labia majora are then held together using thorns or stitching. In some cases the girl's legs have been tied together for two to six weeks, to prevent her from moving and to allow the healing of the two sides of the vulva.

Nothing remains but the walls of flesh from the pubis down to the anus, with the exception of an opening at the inferior portion of the vulva to allow urine and menstrual blood to pass.

 Generally, a practitioner recognized as having the necessary skill carries out this procedure, and a local anesthetic is used. However, when carried out "in the bush," infibulation is often performed by an elderly matron or midwife of the village, without sterile procedure or anesthesia.


A reverse infibulation can be performed to allow for sexual intercourse or when undergoing labor, or by female relatives, whose responsibility it is to inspect the wound every few weeks and open it some more if necessary.

During childbirth, the enlargement is too small to allow vaginal delivery, and so the infibulation is opened completely and may be restored after delivery. Again, the legs are sometimes tied together to allow the wound to heal. When childbirth takes place in a hospital, the surgeons may preserve the infibulation by enlarging the vagina with deep episiotomies. Afterwards, the patient may insist that her vulva be closed again.


Women who have been infibulated face a lot of difficulty in delivering children, especially if the infibulation is not undone beforehand, which often results in severe tearing of the infibulated area, or fetal death if the birth canal is not cleared. The risk of severe physical, and psychological complications is more highly associated with women who have undergone infibulations as opposed to one of the lesser forms of the mutilation. Although there is little research on the psychological side effects of this, many women feel great pressure to conform to the norms set out by their community, and suffer from anxiety and depression as a result .



A five-year study of 300 women and 100 men in Sudan found that "sexual desire, pleasure, and orgasm are experienced by the majority of women who have been subjected to this extreme sexual mutilation, in spite of their being culturally bound to hide these experiences."

 Type IV: Other types


There are other forms, collectively referred to as Type IV, that may not involve tissue removal. The WHO defines Type IV FGM as "all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, for example, pricking, piercing, incising, scraping and cauterization."

 This includes a diverse range of practices, such as pricking the clitoris with needles, burning or scarring the genitals as well as ripping or tearing of the vagina. Type IV is found primarily among isolated ethnic groups as well as in combination with other types.

Amnesty International estimates that over 130 million women worldwide have been affected by some form of Female Genital Mutilation, with over 3 million girls at risk of undergoing FGM every year.


FGM is mainly practiced in 28 different African countries. It is common in a band that stretches from Senegal in West Africa to Ethiopia on the East coast, as well as from Egypt in the north to Tanzania in the south.  It is also practiced by some groups in the Arabian peninsula. The country where FGM is most prevalent is Egypt, followed by Sudan, Ethiopia, and Mali. Egypt recently passed a law banning FGM.

So what brought all of this about? What is the cultural and religious signifigance? According to Wikipedia, the traditional cultural practices of FGC predate Christianity and Islam.

 A Greek papyrus from 163 B.C. mentions girls in Egypt undergoing circumcision and it is widely accepted to have originated in Egypt and the Nile valley at the time of the Pharaohs. Evidence from mummies have shown both Type I and Type III FGC present. (Note that the earliest evidence of male circumcision is also from Ancient Egypt.)

Among practising cultures, FGC is most commonly performed between the ages of four and eight, but can take place at any age from infancy to adolescence. Prohibition has led to FGC going underground, at times with people who have had no medical training performing the cutting without anaesthetic, sterilisation, or the use of proper medical instruments. The procedure can lead to death through shock from excessive bleeding. The failure to use sterile medical instruments may lead to infections.




UNICEF reports that:
"... Al-Azhar Supreme Council of Islamic Research, the highest religious authority in Egypt, issued a statement saying FGM/C has no basis in core Islamic law or any of its partial provisions and that it is harmful and should not be practiced."

Coptic Pope Shenouda, the leader of Egypt's minority Christian community, said that neither the Quran nor the Bible demand or mention female circumcision.

In the United States, a Federal law prohibiting FGC was enacted in 1996. 17 states enacted similar laws between 1994 and 2006.

There are a few very moving books (literature) you can read that might illustrate what this culture act is about.

 - Desert Flower by Waris Dirie (1999): Waris Dirie's autobiographical novel, which tells the story of her own childhood and genital mutilation, was written in collaboration with Cathleen Miller. The book has been printed in numerous languages and topped bestseller lists in Europe.


 - Do They Hear You When You Cry by Fauziya Kassindja (1999): Fauziya Kassindja's story of fleeing Africa just hours before the ritual kakia takes place, and seeking asylum in America resulting in her 16 months behind bars. Ultimately, in a landmark decision in immigration history, Fauziya Kassindja was granted asylum on June 13, 1996.

 - Desert Dawn by Waris Dirie (2003): The book describes how Dirie became a UN Special Ambassador against female genital mutilation (FGM) and returned to her family in Somalia. Written in collaboration with Jeanne D'Haem.

 - Desert Children reveals how Dirie and journalist Corinna Milborn investigated the practice of FGC in Europe. Waris reports on encounters with circumcised women and circumcisers, on the difficult research, on setbacks and achievements. Written with Corinna Milborn, translation by Sheelagh Alabaster; published in 2007 by Time Warner UK. A Europe-wide campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) was initiated after the publication of this book.

- "Possessing the Secret of Joy" by Alice Walker (1993): Fiction novel that explores the themes of violence, sexism, misogyny, and female genital mutilation in African, British, and American society.

 - "No Laughter Here" by Rita Williams-Garcia (2004): Fiction novel that explores the effects of a ten year old Nigerian girl who got FGC while on vacation in her homeland and her best friend's struggle to understand what has happened to her friend.

 - "Sweetness In The Belly" by Camilla Gibb (2005): Fiction novel about a white Muslim woman named Lilly living in Harar. FGC is performed on the two daughters of the woman Lilly stays with.
It is our responsibility to educate other people who may not understand what is going on. Women.. girls.. children.. are still fighting for equality. To me - this is one of the most hideous cultural crimes against women.

Visit amnestyinternational.org for more information.

Allergies, Red Bows and Radio Interviews

Life may disappoint us from time to time, but it never fails to teach me something new.

Yesterday was a loooong, interesting day.

Most of it was work-related.

With that - I realized something, my life and my work is rarely boring.

I spent the majority of the morning preparing myself and my guests for the "Care Giving Doctor" radio show. It is a one hour show dedicated to "helping people" with resources and information. It is aired on the 3rd most listened to radio station in Birmingham, and the #1 Gospel station in town. I brought a neurologist, a continuing care nurse and professor, and a therapist to talk about Stroke and the prevalence in the african american community. Amazing interview, honest and open questions from the audience and heartfelt answers from the guests.

*sigh*

A job well done all around. I really TRULY think we might have made a difference. THAT's when I LOVE my job.

Then I get back to the office to realize that one of the top stroke/epidemiologist researchers in town is troubled by the lack of stroke awareness. Of course they always point at the media (that's me) and it simply troubled me... YES we are getting the message out there.. and YES we have a long way to go in educating people about Stroke.

It's one complicated subject.

What to do? What to do?

Needless to say.. I think I found a solution to pleasing everyone and that subject is closed.

Now let's talk about Allergies. I don't think I am allergic to tree pollen like I once thought. It's the grass pollen that gets me. After the shower of yellow subsided, I decided to walk way from my Nasanex for a while. BIG mistake. I have sneezed half a dozen times while trying to type this.

Sooo.. I am back on the sauce.. lol.. the allergy sauce.

Now on to Red Bows - I totally did not get to go to my French cooking class with my friend Tiffany. :-( I had to go to The Club instead and help set up for the Go Red For Women Luncheon. I am not one for "labor related" tasks - ha ha.. but I found myself putting chair covers on 200 chairs and then puting red bows on them. Yeah.. I learned how to tie a red bow around a chair.. kind of like a sash.

Ladies and gents - I have a whole new appreciation for caters and event planners. lol

That leads me to today - The Go Red For Women Luncheon in Birmingham. I will be popping over there in a few minutes...

With that, I must leave my sweet readers. I will be back.. and YES - I have a HOT topic I have researched!! Female Genital Mutilation. Oh yeah.. I said it. It makes me sad. (Female Circumsizing (sp).)

Coffee Porn

Ahhh.. my obsession.

You are Going to Give Me a Stroke!

One of the many causes I promote deals with Stroke. I work for the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. (It's one in the same.)

May is Stroke Awareness month. Let me tell you - this one, The Stroke, terrifies me.

See... I have hypertension, aka High Blood Pressure. Just one of the major causes of a Stroke. I pay close attention to this disease in particular.

With that being said, let me tell you some basic facts about Stroke. Educate yourself - people. Seriously... time loss could mean death.

What is a Stroke?
Stroke is a type of cardiovascular disease. It affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it starts to die.


What Are the Types of Stroke?

Stroke can be caused either by a clot obstructing the flow of blood to the brain (ischemic strokes) or by a blood vessel rupturing and preventing blood flow to the brain (Hemorrhagic or bleeding strokes).

Diagnosis of Stroke

When someone has shown symptoms of a stroke or a TIA (transient ischemic attack), a doctor will gather information and make a diagnosis. A doctor may use many different tests.

Warning Signs Prior to a Stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency. Know these warning signs of stroke and teach them to others.


EVERY MINUTE MATTERS.
 Warning signs include sudden:

-Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

-Confusion
-Trouble speaking or understanding

-Trouble seeing in one or both eyes

-Difficulty walking

-Dizziness

-Loss of balance or coordination

-Severe headache with no known cause

In the past, doctors couldn't do much to help stroke victims. That's not true today. Now stroke doesn't have to lead to disability or death. The key is to recognize a stroke and get to the hospital immediately. The clot-dissolving drug tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) can reduce long-term disability if it's given within three hours after an ischemic stroke starts. (Ischemic strokes are caused by clots and are by far the most common type of stroke.)

Unfortunately, tPA isn't used as often as it could be because many people don't seek care quickly. Don't you make that mistake. If you or someone near you has the warning signs of a stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Has your local hospital set up the appropriate steps for treating stroke as an emergency? One way to find out is by checking the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospital Organization's (JCAHO) list of certified primary stroke centers. If your local hospital isn't currently on this list, they still may be prepared to treat stroke. Contact the emergency room administrator and ask if the hospital has acute stroke protocols that include guidelines for the use of tPA. Knowing which facilities are equipped to treat stroke can save valuable time.

Here is some more "sobering" thoughts - Heart disease and stroke are major health risks for all people. But African Americans are at particularly high risk.


Consider this:


Blacks have almost twice the risk of first-ever strokes compared to whites.


Blacks have higher death rates for stroke compared to whites.


The prevalence of high blood pressure in African Americans in the United States is the highest in the world.


Among non-Hispanic blacks age 20 and older, 62.9 percent of men and 77.2 percent of women are overweight or obese.


In 2001, 27.7 percent of black or African-Americans only, used any tobacco product. Heavy cigarette smoking approximately doubles a person's risk for stroke when compared to light smokers.


Black women have higher prevalence rates of high blood pressure, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes than white women.


There is hope - go to the Power To End Stroke website. There are tons of resources!


The burden of stroke is greater among African Americans than in any other group. In fact, not only do blacks have almost twice the risk of first-ever stroke compared with whites, but blacks 35-54 years old have four times the relative risk for stroke.

 But there is hope. You have the power to fight stroke - and win! By following these three simple steps, you can help protect yourself against stroke.


Reduce your chances of having a stroke by learning the risk factors and working with your doctor to help reduce your risk.


Recognize the warning signs of a stroke. Stroke is a medical emergency. Every second counts!


Respond by calling 9-1-1 immediately if you or someone close to you is having warning signs of stroke. Then check the time. When did the first symptom start? You'll be asked this important question later.


It's time to act now! Take the Power to End Stroke Pledge, commit to living a healthier lifestyle and use your power to stop stroke today.


Several factors increase the risk for stroke. The more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of having a stroke. You can't control some factors, but you can modify, treat or control others to lower your risk.
What risk factors can I control?


You can change many conditions through diet and exercise. Others may need medication. Your best defense is knowledge. Talk to your doctor to find out if you have any of these health risks.


What are risk factors I can't change?


Family history and race


If a parent, grandparent, brother or sister has had a stroke, your risk of having one is greater. African Americans’ risk for stroke is up to four times higher than non-Hispanic whites. This is due in part to the increased rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity among blacks.


Get to the root of your family’s health by creating your own family health history tree.


Age


Strokes can happen to people of any age, even children — especially those with sickle cell disease. But the older you are, the greater your risk for stroke.


Sex


More men than women have a stroke each year. But at all ages, more women than men die of stroke. In 2002, more than 11,000 black females and 7,800 black males died of stroke.


Previous stroke or heart attack


If you’ve had a stroke, you’re at a much higher risk for having another one. If you’ve had a heart attack, this also raises your risk for having a stroke.


Please do not fool yourself into thinking you are too young to have a stroke. Working in the field that I do, I have met a 2 year old, a 16 year old, a 26 year old, and many men and women in their 30s and beyond who HAVE suffered a stroke.


My biggest warning is to my friends out there on birth control pills. If you smoke and take the pill, please be warned that it can cause a stroke. I have met many young women who made the mistake and ended up a victim. Unfortunately, they will never be the same again.


Thanks for letting me get on my soapbox!

Chinese Massage and Wearing the Right Bra

This is definitely a weird week. I have waaaaaaay too much on my plate at work, so the blog posts are bit more personal and journal-esque than I would actually like.

My days are filled with prepping spokespeople, running by radio and tv stations for interviews and sincerly, trying not to b*tch slap anyone for talking back to me.

Yesterday was a mix of EXCELLENT and WTH. Workwise, meetings galore, press releases galore and conversations with Barbara Dooley (Vince Dooley's wife) were needless to say.. illuminating. If you don't know who that is - she is the wife of former AMAZING football coach for the University of Georgia. She is the keynote speaker at the Go Red For Women Luncheon here in Birmingham.

I had an excellent Midday interview on ABC 33/40. We used PJ Rossi - a heart survivor with an amazing story to help drive our mission home. She did an great job! That was a win.

Lunch with Kristen from the TV station was good - Firebird's. YUMM.. Their cilantro crusted chicken is always a win!

Then personal life comes bopping in... the egyptian got his panties twisted over the fact I would not chip in and help him buy a guitar. Oh, did I mention it is an electric guitar.. a flying V. WHO IN THE WORLD NEEDS AN ELECTRIC GUITAR .. A FLYING V  FOR THAT MATTER.. WHEN YOU LIVE IN A ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT AND .. NOT TO MENTION.. CANNOT PLAY THE DAMNED THING.

*sigh*

Okay.. I am done with that vent. Sorry.

Sooo.. while he was taking his dinner time siesta nap, I took off to do something I have needed to do my entire life. Get properly fitted for a bra. I did it. I went to the Fitting Touch at the Summitt. Miracles - the twins are lifted and supported and let me just say.. these girls are not small. I hope to feel like a new woman today! I got a bra in HOT PINK. lol A little celebration for me. Might I add - it seriously took about 10 pounds off me (visually speaking.) My actual size might scare you.. so I will not put it here. I just did not know bras came in that size. hahahahahaaa... I am so sorry if there are any guys out there reading this. :-$

I left there, still a little ticked at the guitar fiasco.. so I headed to the Oriental Chinese Holistic Wellness Center. I got a massage. Now - the Chinese Massage is a bit different. (Please not this is not one of those "happy ending" places.. these people actually use "Chinese Medicine" type of techniques. I think my qi or my yin and yang or something was unblocked.) ;-) Let's just say.. It hurt like hell.. but in a seriously good way. Elbows, Pinching.. twisting.. the poor little chinese man worked hard to break up the tension in my back. There was one move.. some type of manipulation of the individual vertebrae or spine things or the muscles between.. all the way down my back. IT HURT when he applied pressure (I assume he was doing accupressure) and then would dig in and twist.. however, some things popped and when he would release a flood warmth and relaxation would flow. INSANE how cool that was.

I woke up this morning a little stiff, and my back is red in certain areas. Blood is STILL flowing and I can feel it. Still warm where he worked the muscles.

I am soooo happy I went. The little man said, "You so tense." I just smiled.

That was my day. Seriously. Meetings. Tv Interview. Booking guests. Prepping speakers. Proofing a script. Guitar Argument. Excellent lunch. New bra. Chinese torture massage. Oh.. and I forgot.. I bought a peacock ring. It's too sassy! I will upload a picture soon.

What does this day hold? Who knows.. I hope to be inspired to write about something REAL soon. I apologize to any new readers.. it is sincerly not like this usually.

In need of a pink tutu - still!

** all but one of the following photos came from Google Images. I am not claiming any rights to any of them!!

I am OBSESSED with pink tutus. Always have been.

If I could get up every morning and put a pink tutu on, I would be a much happier girl.

There is something magical about the tulle, the ribbons, the sparkles glued on. How it poofs out in all the right places and is perfectly layered!

I think one of the main reasons I ever took ballet was to wear the pink tights, pink shoes and I prayed and prayed that one day I would get to wear a pink tutu.

I practiced my shanay turns, my tour jete and pirouette.

I wanted nothing more than to take flight, with my little pink tutu fluffing out as I soared across my dance studio's floor.

*sigh*

I stood for hours in my toe shoes, thinking the more I stood there, the deeper the arch, then the better my turnout would be - so the way my tutu would dangle would look even prettier.

I think if I had a baby (girl) I would dress her in pink tutus.. just like these little babies to the right.

I would decorate the baby room with ballet slippers and pinks bows and definitely hang a tutu on a pretty satin hanger.

The poor child would never stand a chance against that pink tulle.. she would feel compelled to dance, yet never understand why.

When it comes to fashion, I would design the latest and greatest dresses - all incorporating a pink tutu.

The next formal function I would attend - Pink tutu with a black bow - just like this picture to the left.

Imagine sassy shoes, hair pulled up and dangling ear rings.

I actually found a website that sells fashion for adults using tutus: It's called One Thousand Tutus. Some of the pieces are like a work of art.

Now please note, I am not a crazy girly girl. I always felt super girly girls were over compensating (kind of like the manly macho men.) No.. no.. I can be just as sassy and tough and cynical as the next. But the pink tutu remains as something that is soft on my eyes. Makes me smile - and always brings out the "oooh.. giggle" in me. Not much else will.. but a pink tutu - everytime.

I never quite got the pink tutu.. but I got close.. now this picture, this picture I can claim for my own!

Yep.. that's me - rocking the tutu with my pink tights and pink satin shoes. LOL

What is your secret fashion love?

Workity.. work.. work.. work

I was not over inspired to research some random subject today. So, I thought I might just give you a little "journal-esque" type of entry.

My weekend was simply delightful. I did not do anything wild and crazy, but it was a nice calm.. cleansing.. weekend. It started off with an excellent Saturday! I did a little browsing at World Market. This is seriously one of my favorite stores IN the world. It trumps Pier 1 any day! I went in, specifically for a teal peacock bracelet. It was only $6.99. I was on a budget and thought - I will HAVE this bracelet. Well.. it was there. I walked around with it. Then I decided I did not want it. Do you do that? Pick something up that you have your heart set on... then if you hold it long enough, you end up with the beginnings of buyer's remorse and put it back?

I ended up leaving with a two Mother's Day cards. Yeah.. yeah.. yeah.

Once I ended my perfect little trip through World Market, I met my dear friend, Tiffany, for lunch at La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant. It was great to catch up. We discussed our "work outs" and "Crystal in Egypt" and finances. You know, basic goings on of our friends and family. I love their fresh salsa, and gobbled it all up. I ended up ordering a Fajita Taco Salad (with Steak). Was divine. We left completely stuffed to the brim.

We decided to walk down to Target and spend, I kid you not, about 2 hours, just sashaying around. We went through almost every aisle, just "window shopping." Silly stuff. Finally I came upon what I have needed for a while. You know the syrups you pour over snowcones?? Last August, I received a snow cone machine for my wedding. I have yet to use it. I ended up picking up a bottle of watermelon snow cone syrup. My big $2.49 purchase. Yep - that's it. I bought a bottle of syrup. lol

We left there and got to talking about pets. Well.. the next store was Petco. I want a fish or a bird. (Since the egyptian will not allow a cat or dog.) We spent about 45 minutes looking at the animals in there. The fish were pretty cool. I have never owned a fish or a bird. BUT - I think in the end, it will be pretty expensive to get what I actually want. As we were browsing.. we came to the rodent section. Now - I have never been sqeamish about animals.. but the white rat honestly made me nauseous. Seriously. Thinking about it now gives me chills. I think I have issues with rodents. That was a new one for me.

We left there and decided to pop into the Dollar Tree. Tiffany wanted to show me her favorite candy as a child. LOL Seriously, we spent about 30 minutes discussing candy.. which somehow got us on the subject of movies. She ended up getting a box of Milk Duds and I.. ooooh.. I found a bag of Cotton Candy. LOL Dollar Store Cotton Candy. We ended up debating about whether or not everything is a dollar there. I assured her, everything in a dollar store is a dollar. LOL I still think she does not believe me.

Next we drove over to Publix  and walked through the bakery section. Just to point out our favorite desserts. You would think we would not want to talk about food, after having the delicious filling lunch we had. But we did. I decided to pick up a bottle of Diet Coke. Really the whole point was to say hello to the egyptian. If you guys don't know - he is (unfortunately) working there for now.. well.. he is quitting today.

We left there and headed to Walgreens.http://www.walgreens.com/ I had to pick up a perscription. We bounced around and discussed all sorts of things as we waited.

Next we headed back to my apartment and watched some hilarious videos on You Tube. Then we somehow got on the subject of who we liked better - MJ or Prince. We both agreed - Prince. She then showed me the videos of Dave Chappelle doing a Prince sketch. HILARIOUS. Just google it.

Needless to say.. our long day of nothing.. (I aquired a full belly, Watermelon Syrup, Cotton Candy, Diet Coke, and a Prescription) had to end. I picked up the egyptian from work and we headed to some random Chinese Buffet. (He loves.. I despise.)

The day was good.

Sunday was DIVINE. The Egyptian had to work from 11 - 7:30. So basically I had the day to do as I please! I actually did 4 small loads of laundry, cleaned the kitchen and bathroom, changed out the linens, baked a lemon cake, vaccumed, watched some episodes of Jersylicious, baked Cajun Blackened chicken, read a little of my Psychology Today magazine, and took out the trash. It was productive I tell you! I ended the day by watching Desperate Housewives with the egyptian (his favorite show).. I promise. LOL

That was it. That's all I have to share. I went into great detail.. now you know how absolutely boring my life can be. LOL

I have a super busy week.. and I think I am ready for it. Lots of meetings and planning today. (The Egyptian will quit his job today.) Tomorrow I have a Midday Television Show Interview with ABC 33/40 to promote our Go Red for Women Luncheon. Thursday I have a one hour radio show interview on WAGG - "The Caregiving Doctor" show to promote Stroke Awareness month and Power Day for Power to End Stroke. Thursday night is the Mobile, AL Heart Ball, and Friday is the Birmingham, AL Go Red For Women Luncheon.

Needless to say - the easy going weekend was needed!

As for FUN things this week - I am going to a French Cooking class on Thursday night. I have to help lead the youth group at church on Wednesday night. Next weekend - who knows??

Okay guys.. how is your day shaping up? What adventures are on the horizon?
Let's hope we can all get through the week fairly unscathed.

I got a Sunshine Award!

Well isn't this just the coolest thing??

A blogger awarded me with the Sunshine Blog Award!

Here is the link to what she said:

Destination Unknown: Nicole writes candidly about life and loving.


That was really sweet. Thanks sooo much!

So now I have to take a few steps and share the love. I follow over 30 blogs.. this is going to take a minute!

Here are the rules:

The Sunshine Award is an award to recognize blogs that bring a little sunshine to the blogosphere.

1. Nominate 12 bloggers.


2. Put the award logo onto your sidebar or within a post.

3. Link the nominees within your post.

4. Let the nominees know they’ve received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link the sidebar logo to the person from whom you’ve received this award.

Okay.... sooo.. here we go: (in alphabetical order)

1. Abby's Blog - This is a 16 year old girl sailing a ship.. alone.. around the world. I am hooked, I've read every entry and I sincerly hope the best for her! Her strength is inspiring.

2. Cassagram - This girl is witty, smart, and full of amazing insight. She is a very candid writer and fun!

3. Confessions of a Fabulous Fat Chick - This is my sister's blog. Soooo funny. Very inspiring...

4. Foxy Pink Cheetah - How can I describe her? A married Mormon who has a secret stripper name?? LOL No. no.. she is another very candid, witty, intelligent girl just trying to get through this thing called life.

5. I'm just sayin' - This is a blog written by my old co-worker/TV reporter, Kathy. She is from the hills (no, not those hills.. the hillbilly hills) and now is married, a stay at home mom of two and trying to adjust to a "jew-ish" lifestyle in upscale Conneticut.

6. LBR - Laura is a co-worker of mine, and her writing is just sooo sweet.

7. Quo Fata Ferunt - This is written by an old co-worker (from the television days) - he is an excellent writer.. just go check it out!

8. The Sassy Curmugeon - She makes me laugh - everytime!

9. From Chaos Comes Happiness-  Witty, sweet, like a breathe of fresh air!

10. This Journey Called Life - Very inspiring!

11. List of the Day - FUNNY

12. A Mom, A Blog, and the Life In Between -  Candid look at living a life as a single mom, dating and working in Miami. (PS - my ex-co worker also!)

Of course the dear, sweet blogger that gave me this award (see first link in the blog) would deserve this right back! ;-) But since she already has it... lol

Okay.. check out my friend's blogs. I bet you will find a few you have to read!

My Life.. My Experiences

Please enjoy the following videos! This a small collection of my life.. who I am.. and the people that mean the most to me!

Please click on the individual videos and you will see the full size. Note some are longer than others.. and some are actual video and some are slide shows!
Have any questions about what you see - just leave a comment!



My Work (this past February) to Celebrate Go Red For Women:


My niece.. who has stolen my heart!





2009 Year in Review



Vacation time!





Hanging out in Birmingham on the rooftops!


My Trip to Egypt


My Parents! (and some of me)


My wedding reception!



I hope you enjoyed the little trip through my life for now!!

A Visual - "Get to Know me!"

Mesmorized.

“I knew that I had come face to face with some one whose mere personality was so fascinating that, if I allowed it to do so, it would absorb my whole nature, my whole soul, my very art itself.” ~ Oscar Wilde.

I can easily be intrigued. When I leave the safety of my home, and I enter the big, bad world - I open myself up to the people, sights and sounds all around me. Inanimate objects will catch my eye. A look on a person's face may extract an actual greeting or smile from me. It all just depends.

On that rare occassion you meet what I would call a "Kindred Spirit." That person that you connect with instantly and feel a true kinship with. It's rare, but when it happens - you know your life is about to change.

I can think of a handful of times I have met such interesting creatures. It's not often. But truly, it turns my thinking around. Perhaps these people are deep thinkers, or have some time of "psychic ability" they are not aware of. I don't know.. I am being a little silly now and going off the deep end. But do you guys know what I am talking about?

I can definitely say that the man I share my life with is DEFINITELY one of these people. It is sooo refreshing being married to a man who is such a deep, emotional thinker. Sometimes it is a little jarring - but for the most part, I like it. I have always been attracted to passion. I am not talking about sexual passion (though that is just fine also..) I am talking about someone who is clearly soaking up life.

Since I throw the word Kindred Spirits around like using the word and, like and how.. I thought I would actually try to find out what it actually means.

The idiom definition says: A kindred spirit is someone who feels and thinks the way you do. Sure.. but.. not always. I am totally "attracted" (again.. not sexual) to people who think a completely different way. What does that mean??

I decided to do a Google Image Search on an artist's interpretation of a Kindred Spirit. Here are a few examples:

Both very interesting.. but still, not telling me a whole lot.

It kind of takes me back to that old question people pose from time to time: If you could invite any 5 people in the world, dead or alive, who would you invite to dinner?

I always answered: Jesus, Moses, Muhammed, The Dalai Lama, and Ghandi.

Yes, the deep spiritual thinkers. I wonder where the conversation would lead?

Would Muhammed argue with Jesus about whether or not he was the son of God? Would Ghandi and the Dalai Lama try to keep the peace and teach the others how to meditate? Would Moses scratch his head and wonder how all of these factions came about after he left the world??

And why are all of my thinkers men? It just hit me, I would be the only girl. There are amazing women out there also - let me think... I would then invite the Blessed Mother, Mary, then her friend Mary Magdaline (sp), Joan of Arc, Sarah (Abraham's wife), Helen Keller, and Amelia Earhart. There - that would make an excellent table of 10 plus 1!

I could list even more people I would LOOOVE to chat with.. WB Yeats was quite a character, as well as Oscar Wilde. I would love to ask William Shakespeare a question or two. Henry VIII, Marie Antoinette, Jane Austen, William Faulkner, Albert Einstein, Emily Dickinson, Flannery O'Conner, JFK, Jr (just to flirt with), and so many more.

We could get ancient also - how about a table with Nietzsche, Plato, Socrates... bring it down to Jung, Freud... Mozart.. etc. etc.

There are soooo many fascinating people, I would not even know where to begin.. and where to cut the guest list down??

But when I read about these people, I am mesmorized.

Then in my day-to-day life, ever so often... again.. I meet amazing people.

They may never be famous, or invent something, or change philosophical thought.. but they have that certain spark that makes you want to know more.

I hope more people like that cross my path.

Perhaps, I can be that for someone too!

It is a new day

Today is a new day. I am awake. I am breathing. I got paid. I have a fairly stress-free work load, steady -but no major fires to put out. I said what I had to say. I prayed for what I needed to pray for.

But still.. it lingers.

"If you see ten troubles coming down the road, you can be sure that nine will run into the ditch before they reach you. " ~ Calvin Coolidge

I am breathing.

Today IS a new day. (I keep saying it.. waiting to believe it.)

I was once told by a "wise" friend that it is more important to count your blessings than to simmer in your worries. I was also told that to take each day one step at a time.

With that being said, perhaps I should count my blessings that I know can happen today (insha allah - as the egyptian always says.. means God Willing in Arabic.)

Blessings For Today:

1. Once I leave the house, I will drink a fabulous cup of coffee.

2. I get to organize my office (which it desparately needs, and I am ready for.)

3. I love driving my little VW bug, and my ipod is fully charged.

4. I think I will listen to Journey all the way to work.

5. It's casual day at work. JEANS!

6. I have one meeting that might get a little heated, but the facts are on my side.

7. It is beautiful today.

8. I have a fun weekend planned.

9. I will pick something wonderful for lunch.

10. I will buy the peacock bracelet I saw at world market.

Simple things, but good!

"Wise are they who have learned these truths:

Trouble is temporary. Time is tonic. Tribulation is a test tube. " ~William Arthur Ward

Until next time...