Things I Have Learned This Week

1. Sleep is a glorious, glorious, cleansing, healing thing.

2. The Flu or some random bacterial infection has invaded my body and WON'T seem to go away.

3. I really do love taking pictures.

4. My new antibiotic causes insomnia. Eew.

5. If you lay low, and mind your own business - life goes by so much easier.

6. Today's my 5 year anniversary. I might be the only who remembers.

7. I finally wrote a blog post. Now I find I have nothing to say.

8. Perhaps the 6 year old who keeps talking might be the reason I am limited on what I can say.

9. I might make it to 10.

10. Yep.

Much needed break

I knew something wasn't right when I began writing super fast at work. Basically, I had to create a persuasive letter for potential artists to purchase a vendor booth at our festival, and I had to write a 4 page piece for an end of the year report - both of which I did in less than 30 minutes. Something told me then that I missed writing.

So.. I'm back.

I needed to just remove myself from sharing so much of my life with others. I have sort of decided to totally pull back, not just in my writing, but in general. I've been keeping to myself, even when it comes to friendships. I sort of figure, if you want to know what's going on with me - then call me. I also just needed some time to breathe. And live.

We all need that space from time to time. Whether it's with our family, our significant other, our friends, our co-workers - we all need time to just gather our thoughts and hopefully, after the break, you will appreciate the relationships you have even more.

I think my body responded to needing to rid myself of the excess toxins by catching the Flu. Yes, for almost two weeks I have been really, REALLY sick. My hair would end up soaking wet each night from my fever attempting to break. I was hacking up a lung. My body ached, my head hurt, I was vomiting and I had lost my appetite. Apparently, over the past week or so, I've become so dehydrated that somehow.. someway.. I ended up with a really bad bladder infection. Now I'm on some SUPER strength antibiotics and other random pills. Let's just say.. my urine is bright orange because of the meds. Lovely thought, right? Yes...

I've also had a TON of things going on at work. We hosted a Second Saturday Storytelling which was a complete success. The community response is going so well that one of the local tv stations wants our storyteller to come on air once a month (regular schedule) to promote the next book. YAY!

The very next day we had our Fall Benefit at the museum. This was a small fundraiser to support the education and outreach programs. It was hosted by one of the HBC's in Georgia, Fort Valley State University.

At the event, there was delicious food (seen above,) a wonderful jazz quintet, a live auction, and a Veteran's Day tribute. We met our goal, which is exactly what we wanted!

I've got some other news... sort of. I finally finished the red badge program with my Rotary group. Rotary is doing this new thing where new members for through an "orientation" period. Sort of reminds me of Greek life and the whole pledge process. I finally completed enough points to be official. I have to admit, at first I felt a little silly in the program. Sort of like I was not sure if it was the right place for me. But each week, I honestly meet some of the most dynamic business leaders in our community. I get to eat a fantastic lunch, and while doing so, I hear some amazing presenters. Just this last week, a representative from Mercer University came and shared the "Mercer on a Mission" program. This program is where students as well as faculty, head to remote village and fit people with prosthesis, provide ways to get clean drinking water, and a slew of other services. Each week, the stories are profound and very moving. I even got up one Saturday morning and cleaned up part of the Interstate with fellow Rotarians. I have to say.. I'm drinking the kool-aid my friends. ;-)

Outside of that, I've been selected to be on a Public Arts Committee for the city. There is a group of us (representatives from Arts organizations, as well as key stake holders with the local government) that are meeting to identify public and private spaces for public art. What's kind of cool, is that in the end, something will be in place for years to come that people will enjoy. It'll be that "thing" you go to take a picture in front of. It's nice knowing I will play a part in making my community a more culturally vibrant place.

Also - I don't know who did it, but I was nominated for Leadership Macon. I'm sort of excited. I have to attend an interview to see if I will be selected, only a select few actually make it through, but it is nice to know I was thought of by someone. I checked out the criteria, and it looks like the courses (which take places over 11 months,) are pretty cool. There includes a lot of topics I could get excited about. Who knows...

It's weird really. Since I have moved home, so many wonderful career opportunities just keep unfolding before my eyes. Everything I (we) do in the community (from the museum's standpoint) is so well received, it just sort of blows my mind. I don't know if I see myself in Macon long term, but it certainly seems like I am at the right place at the right time. As always, I want to use this time to make a difference. I need to just relax... and do what needs to be done.

One last "update" of sorts - I am SUPER excited about the next First Friday Forum at the museum. So.. you may not know about this, but each First Friday in downtown Macon there is a huge celebration of sorts. All of the restaurants and bars get involved, as well as the businesses. We are about to have our 3rd event. (I love that I, along with my intern, get to make these up.) In October, we had some nurses from the Central Georgia Breast Care Center do a "Breast Cancer Awareness" forum. We had a small group of about 14 people attend. Then last month we had an African Drumming Forum and it was PHENOMENAL. Even more people showed up. THIS TIME (and I am SOOO excited about this,) we are doing a "Celebration of Words." It's a mix of spoken word/poetry readings and things like that. We got a local coffee shop in the College Hill Corridor called "Jittery Joes" to sponsor with an in kind donation of coffee and pastries. So people will get to have a mock "poetry cafe" experience. I decided to charge $3 a person, and even have it where for the first hour and a half it's "family friendly" and the last hour and a half, more mature material can be read. I am SOOO excited.

Oops.. one more update. I get to lead ANOTHER marketing workshop. If you will remember, I did one for Middle Georgia Art Association on how to market their art. This month, I get to do a different presentation to the Macon Writer's Group. Mainly this will focus on marketing for those who are self published. I'm really excited and honored to share what I know.

Wow.. right? :-)

That's it folks. I think you are caught up on my life.

Oh yeah.. today is my 5 year wedding anniversary.

Until next time...

Things I have learned this week

1. Aches, fever, chills, cough, vomit and extreme fatigue = The Flu. By the way, it sucks.

2. It really is all about the camera. Work bought me a EOS Rebel (Canon.) My photos are freaking amazing.

3. Obama. (Booyah.)

4. Trying to play catch up at work after only being out 2 days is basically like voluntarily going into a concentration camp. It's like I'm trying to kill myself.

5. I finally have a great excuse to purchase the Keurig. MY COFFEE POT DIED. That's right. This morning. I am having to settle for hot cocoa. Next Friday, Mr. Keurig - you are MINE!

6. Next Saturday is my 5 year wedding anniversary. I wonder if he will remember.

7. My November Issue of Psychology Today has been a blast to read while sick. Pick one up.

8. I finally qualified for an upgrade with AT&T. Don't laugh, but I am not the type that has to have the latest, I just like to have something. So it's time to get rid of my little Iphone 3 and upgrade to a 4. Yes, I am like one upgrade behind, but honestly - I don't care. I will receive my new phone for $1 (with a two year contract.) I saved $450. Yay me!

9. I have been living off two sweet gifts from God: Holiday Grapes and Honey Crisp Apples from Fresh Market. Oh my word... they taste like love.

10. I have a fear that our staff Thanksgiving holiday meal will involve someone bringing KFC. I am SOOOOOOO against KFC. But I like fried chicken. It will be torture.

11. I finally had to turn the heat on for one night. Just to take the nip out of the air. Other than that - the weather is really finally beautiful. Cool air, bright blue skies.

12. The trees STILL have not changed for me.

13. Ladybugs are ALL over my house.

14. I decided to read a trash novel for fun. It's called "Gypsy Lover." I got it for 25 cents at Kema's Book Shop. *hee hee*

15. Today is the first day that I woke up and did not feel like I was going to hack a lung off. When I cough, I still sound like a 20-year smoker. Booo.

16. That the states that voted for Romney (majority) are the highest in illiteracy, have less college educated citizens and are the poorest. Interesting.

17. Make that 3 months until I turn 40. EEK.

18. My skin looks sooo dry. This weather change is not good for preserving Nicole.

19. Did I mention I'm getting a Keurig?

20. Two events. Two days. Here I go...

F.L.U.

There has been less of this

 

 

And more of this

 

Actual shot of my pajamas


There's definitely been waaay less of this

And most certainly more of this

 

The flu is on the way out.

 

Slooooowly.. but surely.

 

 



A Decision Has Been Made

Something has been weighing heavily on my mind.

I think it is time to forge a new path.

 

I've given this blog over three years of my life, and I have written almost every, single day.

 

I think it may be time to officially pull back a bit, and work on some of those dreams I have been putting on hold.

 

You know.. putting those God-given talents to use.

 

You see, the problem with a blog is -it's hit and miss if anyone can relate to you.

 

Oh, I've caused plenty of fights with my words. I have received the most offensive email from people I know, as well as people I don't know.

 

But when the comments stop... and the applause dies down..

 

I begin to question why I do it at all.

 

If I feel a sense of let down, maybe I am doing it for validation.

 

Whatever the case my be, I want you to know I am not abandoning Destination Unknown.

 

No way.

 

I gave birth to this baby, and I plan to stick by her side.

 

Instead- no more will you find the daily dribble.

 

Gone are the days of random posts.

 

From now on, if you get anything from me, it'll be because I planned it that way.

 

I may write a few times a week

Maybe once a week.

Heck, maybe once a month.

 

But it's time for me to start working on something a little more... well.. important.

 

I'm going to write a book.

 

That's right.

 

No.. it's not fiction.

 

On the contrary.

 

But I am trying to sort that out.

 

Mark this day my friends, the day I made the official decision to work on something bigger.

Something bolder.

 

It's time, I think.

 

I hope you stick around.

But you need to know, I am probably going to close out the option for direct email or comments here.

 

 

 

I think it is best this way.

 

So before I do that - let me know if you are still out there.

 

That way, I'll know it's worth my time.

 

PS - I ALSO PLAN TO DELETE THE FB FAN PAGE AND FORE GO THE POSTING TO TWITTER. It will take a little while to disconnect from all of those "ways to share" - but it is something I think I need to do for a while.

 

Have a beautiful night, my friends!

 

 

Sunday Blog Hop Thingy

Honestly, I have not done one of these in a really long time. But I as I was doing my Sunday blog reading, I popped by Tamie Marie's blog and found that she had participated in someone named "Neelie's" blog. Well, her actual blog is called "A Complete Waste of Makeup."

She does one of those Sunday "Get to know you" blog hops with a few questions. I thought to myself, "Hey, that's quick simple and to the point." Perhaps I will discover some fantastic new blogs, and maybe pick up a few new followers in the process.

 

Let's get the questions started:

 

 

1. What is currently on your wish list?

 

Where do I begin? Honestly, I was wanting a nice, new digital SLR camera - and luckily work ordered one for me!! I suppose my next purchase needs to be an ipad and a new iphone. (It's time for me to upgrade!)

 

 

2. What is the new Fall TV Show that you have added to your DVR?

 

Hart of Dixie.

 

 

3. Share your social media links so we can follow you:

 

Twitter    Facebook    Pinterest

 

 

4. What is a TV show, Movie, Song, you could listen to over and over and never tire of?

 

Sex & The City for TV, Under The Tuscan Song for movie, and Careless Whisper by George Michael.

 

 

 

That's it! It's that simple!

 

If you are stopping by for the first time, welcome! I'm Nicole -

 



That's me, doing what I always do... drink coffee.

Make sure to pop by the two tabs on the top, under the header to learn a little more.

Have a GREAT Sunday!

Things I will NEVER stop doing

There are those few things you will never change about yourself. It's those little things you cannot ever imagine yourself without. Perhaps it's something small, but defines you. Maybe it's a preference that you are unwilling to compromise on. Whatever it is - it is special and more importantly, it's a part of who you.

Here are a few things I will never stop doing:

1. Wearing Red Lipstick. I LOVE my lipstick, and I REALLY love wearing red lip stick.

 

 

 

2. Thinking I am Wonder Woman.

 

 

 

 

3. Kicking my addiction to coffee.

 

 

 

 

4. Going to Karaoke bars or "Karaoke" night.

 

 

 

5. Dipping my french fries in Ranch Dressing.

 







 

 

6. Stop thinking that Sex & The City has some of the wittiest writing.

 

 

 

7. Thinking flip flops are the most disgusting shoe ANYONE could wear (outside of the beach and a communal shower.)

 

My one pair of flip flops I have owned for years. They are for the pool & beach ONLY.




Those are just a few items...

Tell me a few of yours!









 

 





Week in Review

I've been a bit quiet the past week (pictures wise.) My camera DIED and I have been busy entertaining my old exchange student from Australia (2005) and within that time period, I had about 2 big events (not including 2 more in the next week.) I am little on the crazy side, for certain.

BUT - I happened to capture a few shots. With my phone. Which has NO flash. Apologies for the quality.

Preparing for our Drum Circle. My intern and I created this great monthly event - First Friday Forums. This month is International Percussion Month.
We held an African Drumming Circle at the Museum in the AT&T Technology classroom.

I took the Australian to meet some of the nicest people I know. Here we are with Marsha & "TOD" on their back porch, deep in the woods in Baldwin County. They own Olive Forge Herb Farm.

Marsha and "TOD" shared their lunch with us - we met two other guests from North Atlanta.

Last weekend, the Australian and Autumn carved the pumpkin on my balcony.

We were craving fried food. What about a trip to Outback? LOL

My intern and my friend, Telisa at the Mr. Imagination exhibit at the museum.

The pumpkin lit up!

At Olive Forge Herb Farm, they shared some local goat cheese and blue cheese. Was really wonderful.

We were also treated to some wonderful oatmeal and some lavender sugar cookies as our dessert. See their lovely clay/pottery dinnerware?

The Australian and I at the Mr. Imagination exhibit.

Telisa and I at the exhibit

Kelsea and I at the exhibit

Look what I get to taste test!!!!

Christie and I at the exhibit

Me WITH the exhibit

Marsha made a Costa Rican recipe of spicy black beans and rice! We had some organic plain yogurt to take the bite out of it!

Then they shared this interesting jelly. It was made of pineapple and guava from Brazil. Was delicious!

Apparently, our Second Saturday Storytelling is a hit!!

Baba Raa and Daniel Muhammed laying down some amazing beats at our Drumming Circle.

Daniel explaining how the Drumming Circle works to our participants at the museum

Things I Learned This Week

1. It is really important that people around me say things like, "Thank you." or "I'm Sorry." Two simple phrases that go a really long way with me.

2. That when you help people and you use your talent - you find your purpose.

3. Going grocery shopping on a full stomach is an excellent idea.

4. A Venti Frappuchino will not do anymore. Made. Me. Sick.

5. Taking some initiative and helping out is something that I think young people are not shown enough of. I should not have to ask you. You should know better.

6. Do not take advantage of a situation. No one likes to be used.

7. I feel the need to apologize to all of the adults I had conversations with when I was between the ages of 24 - 27. I apologize now if I was argumentative and pretended to know it all. OMG. Payback is hell, right?

8. I am looking forward to cooler days. I've enjoyed pulling out my scarves and sweaters and other nice things.

9. I really love having a closet I walk through to go to the bathroom.

10. Having a sink that seems to want to stay clogged up is a bit of a pain.

11. I am soooo looking forward to my life returning to normal. Translation- becoming a hermit.

12. I have also decided - I am sort of done with the whole going out thing. Yep - just 3 1/2 months until I turn 40 and I really could care less about socializing. I was thinking of throwing a big party.. now I am kind of like... meh.

13. I am sure I being so pessimistic because I have spent a little too much time around people over the past few weeks.

14. I truly enjoy spending time with Autumn. I know I have said it before - but she really makes me happy.

15. If I never eat goat again, it will be too soon.

16. My feet do not recover as well from wearing heels as they once did.

17. I need new mascara. I think I am going back to Definicil

18. I really love teal.

19. I'm ready to go to sleep.

20. And done!

Doing Some Good

So yeah, I promote things. I write about things. I convince you that those specific things are the best things since things were invented.

I get paid to do that.

You might hear me on the radio, or see me on television, or read an article in the newspaper or a magazine (which, BTW, is nothing more than my press release, 9 times out of 10.) I go to events and shake hands and smile.

Again, I get paid to do that.

But every once in a while, I decide to use my "powers" for good. (Totally in the Good Witch or Bad Witch example.) For instance, I decided that since it was Thanksgiving, and this time of year is about the harvest and our bounty, perhaps we should give back to those in need.

For the first time in my life, it is so much more than "the right thing to do." I recognize, without my family to back me, I would have been one of those "in need" just six months ago. From July 2011- April 2012, I was not guaranteed a meal, a bed, or the means to get from place to place.

I think that's why this season, I want to do everything I can to help those who need help.

When my coworker and I were talking about our Second Saturday Storytelling, it sort of hit me - why not teach the kids about giving back? I know the whole concept may not resonate with some of them, but it is so important to at least expose them to the concept. I decided after a little discussion to offer to do a canned food drive. My manager told me to look into one specific nonprofit, Loaves & Fishes Ministry of Macon, and see what they may need.

Sure enough, I called them and the kindest woman by the name of Sarah answered the phone. She gave me a brief overview and told me what type of items they needed. For example, they only had 20 blankets left, and with the weather growing colder, the need was outweighing what they had on reserve. I immediately felt my heart sort of flutter. (Not in a good way, in more of a oh-my-God-what-if? sort of way.) I asked, "Do you mind if I come visit you? See the place for myself?"

Sarah replied, "I would just love that."

So I did. I left work and found my way to this small building not too far from the museum. I had driven past it numerous times, always noticing the people hanging around outside. Some looked a little rough around the edges, so I always assumed they may be homeless.

I pulled up and two men were standing outside. Clearly, these men were there for either food, a shower, or something. One of the gentlemen greeted me and held the door open for me. I looked up at him and he flashed the kindest smile I had seen in so long. I made it in and met with the Executive Director, who was nice enough to give me a tour of the place. He showed me the pantry, showed me the closet; He even explained to me about the showers and laundry service they provide. I could tell the E.D. was distracted (or perhaps he had seen so many people like me who came through.. sort of looking around like it was some freak show, and thought I would donate once and leave.) Once we rounded the end of the pantry, he sort of stood there looking at me. I smiled and asked, "So Sarah asked me to stop by and pick up a brochure." He looked a little stunned and replied, "Of course, just head around the corner." So I went and thanked Sarah for her kindness.

As I walked out, I saw a young woman. She kept darting her eyes away from me, like she did not want to make eye contact, as if she was ashamed. She held her tattered bag close to her, and even brushed some of her hair away from her face. I paused at the door and smiled at her, as she shyly looked away. My heart sort of went out to her, and I have thought of her many times in the past week. All I could think was, "My God.. that could have been me,"

I know you guys think I am exaggerating, but I am not. If I did not have my family, I would have lost EVERYTHING. I had no home. I was only able to keep my car because I was given unemployment, which was barely $600 a month. I had somewhere to sleep for free, so I could make that payment, buy my medicines and cover my insurance. That was all. I rarely had money for gas or food of my own. But you would never know that - because I had nice things from before. When I went out, you saw clothes that were taken care of, and a car that was paid for, but you did not know what was actually happening by looking at me.

By October of 2011, if it weren't for my parents, I could have easily ended up in a shelter. Easily. I would have to get rid of my stuff, because you can't take that with you in one. I had nothing. NOTHING. Somehow.. and by the Grace of God, I had somewhere to go.

This month, I decided to collect items for Loaves & Fishes. There is a huge box in the lobby of our museum. People are welcomed to donate canned food, clothing, blankets, diapers, anything you know someone would need. I am going to use my "powers" for good and offer discounts to the museum with a donation. Free entrance into our First Friday Forums and Second Saturday Storytelling with a donation. I want that box to be so full, that we have to make a delivery at least a few times this month.

When November comes to a close, and we know we did all we could, I want to volunteer for the area homeless sheltors. I want to help those who need help.

I'll never forget the words of that woman back at the Firehouse Sheltor in Birmingham, when she said to me, "Honey, we are all just one paycheck away from being homeless."

That.. I can attest to.

Disruption

My routine is a bit off course. I can't think straight, I can't commit to any engagements and I can't seem to write.

I have about 6 different "drafts" of a blog post sitting in my blogger account. I begin to write something, on some random subject, and I never finish it.

It's not like I am just sitting around- I am super, SUPER busy - but my brain does not seem to want to allow my hand to type a coherent thought.

I thought I should write about that, instead. Sometimes it's best not to try too hard. Just say what's on your mind. So, that's it - I officially have writer's block.

Not that I ever write about anything of importance or interest to most people. I am sure over 60% of my readers are just nosy. ;-) The rest of you who try to glean something from my dribble or truly do care about me, may actually read and wonder where I am.

I have been trying to figure out what in the hell is going on. I spoke to our Curator today and told him about my plight. I explained that I can't write and I want to sleep all of the time. He told me he thought my mind was simply trying to protect itself and deal with the stress. He reminded me of everything I have gone through in the past year. I sort of stared at him with a blank face and thought to myself, "But I've dealt with it all." Or have I?

If I look at the calendar, about one year ago (exactly, I left Birmingham.) A lot has happened, and lord knows, I've discussed it at great length with anyone who will listen. So what is this unresolved, restless issue that seems to be plaguing me? 

éclat

Sparkle -

v. spar·kled, spar·kling, spar·kles

v.intr.

1. To give off sparks.

2. To give off or reflect flashes of light; glitter.

3. To be brilliant in performance.

4.

a. To shine with animation: He has eyes that sparkle.

b. To flash with wit: Her conversation sparkled all evening.

 

Are you ready to sparkle?

 

This week we are going to embrace our inner glow stick and light up our communities. It's time, don't you think?

 

What amazes me more than anything is how absolutely unique each and every one of us are. We are each born with innate gifts and qualities that no one else can lay claim too. Are you embracing your fireworks or are you like some sparkler on the Fourth of July that fizzles out almost as soon as it was lit?

 

I suppose the most important thing is to make sure you have fuse and a match. I would equate that to passion and drive. Your purpose will follow suit if those two elements are in order.

 

This week let's identify what it is that brings us happiness and what drives you to get up in the morning and try a little harder. I believe that if we identify those key ingredients, we will be set to sparkle and shine for years to come.

 

 

Morphing

socialbliss.com

I fell into the deepest of deep slumps this week. The kind of slump where not only did my writing suffer, but my zest and passion was gone with the wind. I skipped a volunteer opportunity, two parties, and my writing group's meeting.

WTH?

Simple, really. I'm sort of entering another metamorphosis. It happens from time to time. Now that I am finally settling into my role (for this chapter,) I find myself second guessing, readjusting, and finding new and fascinating dramas to attend. I have sort of sized up the competition, allowed alpha dog competition to sniff around, and now it's finally time to pull out the big guns.

Oh yeah baby...

I'm Back!!!!!
I'm not sure what happened, but "Nicole" is awake and aware. I sort of shook off that terrible insecure robe I was carrying around with me, and I finally feel like I am back in my groove.

I allowed someone (or a few someones) ruffle my feathers. Then I had yet another epiphany, and it dealt with those inner wars of others... and then I was right as rain. That's right! The negative self talk evaporated and I began to remember who I was, where I came from, and what I have accomplished. I took stock in my experience, my friends, my talents and more importantly, my joie de vivre.

I organized my closet. I organized my jewelry. I organized my social calender.

I'm pulling out the big guns.

I plan to sparkle. I plan to be competitive (with both myself and those who try to push me around a little.) I can do this - and I can do it with both passion as well as class.

As I sit here tonight with my little Auttie Blossom at my side, my dear friend Matt on the couch, and my egyptian (who finally is in a good place with me,) I take stock in all of the good. I look around the fishbowl and decide I will leave my mark before I swim off to distant shores, and I promise to soak in as much of life as possible.

My question to you, my dear readers:
What do you need to do to sparkle?

Would love to hear from you!

Witchy Ways

It's almost Halloween!!! Can you believe it?

 

I was trying to figure out a way to express myself this week. It's been one hell of a week - and so many interesting twists and turns have taken place.

I realize that this will probably be one of my more cryptic posts yet - but I have summoned my more creative side of the brain to tell the story. But to be completely honest, maybe it's not the more "creative side," but the side of the brain that stores all of my random quotes from movies and books and what~not.

If we have talked this week (in person,) you are going to laugh your head off - because it will make sense. If we have not - then.. just roll with it. ;-)

1. For those of you who know me, did you know that I DON'T have a Halloween costume yet? Shocking, I know.

2.



3.

4.


5.


6.



7.

8.


9.
Ha!
10.

Tried to sell it to some dear friends... they still don't get it.


*sigh*


How was your week?

Weekend in Review ~ Sans photo

Sometimes... and only sometimes... descriptive words are the only choice.

My weekend was VERY busy and slightly intense. Imagine having a friend from Birmingham and my old exchange student arriving at the exact same time. I am serious, at the same exact time. One was just passing through and looking for lodging before a conference and the other is staying indefinitely (well.. less than that, but with no set schedule.) Oh, I think I forgot to mention - a fasting egyptian. Oh yes. Can you even imagine?

Unfortunately, our home is not set up for multiple guests, but I did my best to accommodate everyone, and not interrupt my super busy plans (that were set weeks before I knew anyone else was coming to visit!) *sigh* Needless to say, I slept until 11am on Sunday. I can't believe it. I NEVER sleep that late, which means I was beat.

This weekend I realized so many things. Soooooo many things. Perhaps it's a curse to actually pick up on most people's nonverbal cues, but it happens. I can tell when a guest is expecting the red carpet versus one who is just happy to be here. I can tell when someone is genuinely open to new experiences, versus one who would rather be anywhere than where you have taken them. I can tell when people feel like their territory has been invaded versus one who simply wants to share their life with others.

At the end of the day - It is not my responsibility for any one's happiness.

For years, I used to go out of my way to make people comfortable. I never wanted anyone to feel left out, and I would just about kill myself trying to entertain everyone else, yet I would not enjoy myself.

Luckily, as I grow older, the more I realize - it's not my job to entertain you. You are responsible for that. I am only here for you if you need me.

It's kind of like that with this blog. I sometimes get caught up in trying to meet the reader's entertainment needs. Then I have to remind myself, if there is something the reader needs, they will find it. It's not my job. Just be myself and enjoy the ride.

Such is life and such was my weekend. Just a gentle reminder, I can only do so much. I can smile. I can provide conversation and coffee. I can show you my world. You decide whether you are open to the experience or not.

Ghosts, Bottlecaps, and Australians

I feel like a kid in a candy store! October is totally making up for the pounding September put on me. I have been super busy at work and super content at home, so much so that it leaves very little time to catch you guys up on what is actually going on in my little world.

For one, we have a phenomenal exhibit opening tonight - "The World of Mr. Imagination." Tonight, the Tubman Museum will celebrate the opening of a very special exhibition. Entitled The World of Mr. Imagination, 1948 – 2012, the exhibit features thirty works by the renowned visionary artist known to the world as Mr. Imagination.

Mr. Imagination was born Gregory Warmack in Chicago, Illinois. As a child Warmack

 rendered religious paintings and signs on pieces of cardboard and rocks.  While in his teens and early twenties he carved wood and stone, and made jewelry from cast off objects, which he sold on the streets.  In 1978 he was mugged, shot and left to die.  During his recovery he had an out of body experience.  In it he saw himself as an inheritor of a lineage of kings and artisans that stretched back to ancient Egypt.  This vision inspired him to dedicate himself to a new regenerative art for the people.  In the late 1970’s he began working on sandstone relief sculptures of the African and Egyptian imagery he had seen during his astral travels.  Around 1980 he took on the name Mr. Imagination.  A self-taught artist, Mr. Imagination was known for his prolific output.  He transformed discarded materials into arresting works of art that could at some times be childlike and playful, and at others serious and ritualistic.  He was perhaps best known for incorporating hammered bottle caps into his works.

Beginning in the 1980’s Mr. Imagination showed his work extensively in the Chicago area, but also participated in group and one-person exhibitions across the U.S., in Europe and West Africa. In 2002, after the death of his brother, Mr. Imagination moved from Chicago to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He turned his dwelling there into a studio and community arts center. A house fire in 2008 destroyed the majority of his art, and took the lives of his beloved pets. After this tragedy, Mr. Imagination moved once again, this time to Atlanta, Georgia seeking a fresh start.

In 2009 Mr. Imagination settled in Atlanta, in the Riverside neighborhood near Vinings. Once again he turned his home into his studio, and set about making new work, incorporating the salvaged remains of his burned works into new sculptures. In 2011 he had his first solo show in Atlanta at the Barbara Archer Gallery. The following year, shortly after committing to show works at the Tubman, Mr. Imagination suddenly fell ill and died. With the support of his surviving family, the works for this exhibition were chosen posthumously from the artist’s Riverside home.

The opening reception for this exhibition will be at the Tubman Museum, from 6:00 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. The World of Mr. Imagination will remain on exhibit at the Tubman through January 5, 2013. Admission to this event is Free for Museum Members, $8.00 for the General Public. Contact the Museum (478-743-8544, www.tubmanmuseum.com) for more information about this and other programs.

Last night I hung out in a cemetery. Seriously! Check that off my Fall/Halloweenish to-do list. The good news is, it was all for a good cause. I am volunteering for "Spirits in October," it is a wonderful fundraiser for Historic Riverside Cemetery. The cemetery is celebrating 125 years and by doing so recognizing Macon's "Incredible Firsts” such as the first person interred in Riverside Cemetery, Tallulah Belle Woodall, raised at the Methodist Orphanage, who died of consumption at the age of 28 and Clemiel Barto "Pop" Walden, father of R&B barrier breakers and Southern music entrepreneurs Alan and Phil Walden.

Back this year, the tour's final stop will be a visit inside the beautiful and spacious Macon Public Mausoleum, where light refreshments are served among exhibits about featured spirits and local history. I'm working the gift shop - check out my "haunt," if you will:

Finally, I am so EXCITED that my foreign exchange student from Melbourne, Australia (Matt Cook,) is coming to visit. Matt lived with me in 2005 as a high school senior. He lived 1/2 of his year in Macon and spent the other 1/2 in Birmingham. So yes, he experienced the big MOVE. I have not seen him since 2005. He has been hiking the A.T. for the past couple of months and needed a reprieve. He will literally arrive any hour now (by bus!)

I don't want to forget to mention, a dear friend of mine from Birmingham is coming to visit. Christie found out about a church pianist/organist conference being held in Macon (which she is one!) and thought, "Let me kill two birds with one stone!" I can't wait to see her!

Hope you guys plan to have a great weekend. I have a long night ahead of me, then a 7:30am commitment to meet with my fellow Rotarians to clean up the highway. Good times, for certain!