All Moved In

Moving is a pain in my left butt cheek, but it's done. I have signed my name to the dotted lines..and there were many lines...and I now own my first home. It's nuckin' futs, I tell you. It hasn't sunken in yet, that this place is MINE. There is so much more space than I'm used to, and for the first time ever, I have extra bedrooms! God is sooooo good. I plan to write something more succinct in due time, but for now I just wanted to check in and testify! :)

I pray whoever reads this has a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

It's Almost been a MONTH?!?

Wow, I have fallen off of the blogging tip, big time. My life is crazy right now. Not in a bad way, yet crazy enough to neglect my beloved blogspot. Good news is, I am closing on my townhouse this Friday and I move on Saturday. I've been packing, packing, packing. Trying to get everything switched over (I'm on hold with Brighthouse now...they seem to think it wise to schedule my cable appointment at the same time I'll be moving. Um, no.)

With all that's going on, I've had a difficult time getting into the Christmas spirit. I bought a couple of gifts, but nothing extravagant. I get on a plane to Cleveland on Christmas morning, and will then travel to Pittsburgh, DC, Richmond and Virginia Beach. In the course of four days. This is how I roll. I just hate I won't have much time to get settled in my new digs. I wanted to get started on some painting, but I guess that will have to wait until the new year.

I'll try to do better about updating. I'm sure my life as a new homeowner will be much more interesting. Let's hope.

Can't Help It

I'm a believer that people carry something that either attracts them to or repels them from others. Some call it an aura, some call it a spirit, some call it a vibe. Whatever it may be, I feel that I'm extremely sensitive to it. It's fascinating; from the moment I meet a person, I can know whether or not I will want to be this person's friend or not. It's not foolproof - sometimes I'm turned off by people who turn out to be cool, or am just all out confused about if I want to be around him/her - but when it's on, it's powerful.

Example/inspiration for this post: This past Wednesday night, I was out with my friends at Jackson's. They met this guy last week at another event, and he was in the house Wednesday night. From the moment I was introduced, I wanted to run the other way. I don't know why. I can't explain it. He kept coming back over and joking with my friends, and I would shut down and withdraw everytime he came back. He kept trying to joke with me, and I looked at him like "you don't know me, don't even try it". Eventually, he left me alone. He knew I wasn't havin' it. My friend was like, "wow, you REALLY don't like him!". I told him that his vibe was just all wrong.

Another example. While working in Cleveland, the charge nurse on my floor wanted to hook me up with this cop. He came to the hospital daily to pick up lunch for the prisoners at the local lockup, and he was a younger, attractive guy. I talked to him a few times and we exchanged numbers. We talked on the phone, and it was the most RANDOM conversation I've ever had. It was borderline creepy. After that, I wasn't interested. I'd see him at work all of the time and, like the other guy, just wanted to run the other direction. I even started dodging him. A few months ago, my friend called me and told me that Creepy Cop had been arrested for raping a female prisoner.

On the flip side, there are some people I meet and like immediately. It takes no coercion, no "getting to know you"...I just like them from the start. And those people tend to remain long-term friends, as they continue to prove why I thought he/she was so awesome in the first place.

As for the Questionables - I've met a few here in Florida. There are two people I can think of off the top of my head, both females, that give me a love/hate vibe. At some points, she's completely awesome and I'm glad to be around her, and in the next minute I am completely turned off/pushed away by something she said or did. I know this makes me sound bipolar, but I promise I'm not! I keep my distance from both of these females as a result of this. Again, I can't put my finger on it...they just irk me in a remarkable way and I don't know why.

Tagged by Tosha

I stole the pic too. lol


1. I overuse the word "random". It's awful. I believe this started when I lived in Michigan. EVERYTHING is "random": the day, events, people, my blog.....I need an alternate word. HELP!

2. I just noticed this last week: I was eating Lays potato chips and found myself digging in the bag for the ones that are curled in half. I realized that I always do this. For some reason, the chips that are folded over are my favorites. They taste the same as the other chips, so I don't quite understand why it matters to me.

3. I live by a schedule, completely unintentional. Even if I'm meeting someone on the weekend, I give myself an estimated time of arrival and feel a sense of failure if I don't match or beat it.

4. I had a TiVo. I was proud of my TiVo. But it wasn't HD. There was no point, so I discontinued my service and use the local cable company's DVR. It sucks. I want my TiVo.

5. I have a fantastic sense of direction, except for in two cities: Toledo, Ohio and Washington, DC. Something about the layout of these two cities makes no good sense to me. I can't find my way around, and find my self sho-nuff lost. Anywhere else, I can ride to a destination one time and find my way there again, without incident.

6. I overuse "LOL". Most people do this. I, however, am self-conscious about it. I am trying to break my "LOL" habit by inserting emoticons or simply saying "haha". It's just not the same as good ol' LOL.

7. I am addicted to Burger King. If I ever find myself hungry, my first thought goes to BK. This was all I thought about in church. Raced there after service, got my usual double-cheeseburger combo, ate half of the fries and didn't touch the burger. What's really going on?

That's it. Since not many folks read this blog, if you read this entry consider yourself TAGGED! Tosha, you are excused. :-)

New Music Review: Mary Mary, "The Sound"

I'm chipping away at my new CD's, one at a time. Ever since I hit "play" on my iPod and heard Mary Mary's latest, I've had a hard time pressing "stop". Seriously, their latest album is one of the most innovative and unique "GOSPEL" CDs I have ever heard. Many folks I know that prefer traditional Christian music don't particularly care for this CD, claiming that it sounds too secular. Perhaps, but that's why I like it. I've grown tired of the traditional stuff and while it's not all bad, I prefer to throw something different in the mix.

First came Marvin Winans Jr's CD, which I reviewed a few weeks back. Next, I heard Deitrick Haddon's latest, "Revealed" (I enjoyed it, but haven't reviewed it yet). Then came Mary Mary. Just to show I'm not closed off to other music, I've also purchased John Legend and Wayne Brady (yes, THAT Wayne Brady), but haven't taken a good listen yet.

Mary Mary's "The Sound" begins with an eloquent spoken word by Deborah Joy Winans. The cd jumps immediately into the title track, which sounds like it was recorded for a 1960's surfer movie. Seriously. The musical style is uniquely different, but not in a negative way. It just makes you want to do the Mashed Potato or the Twist. But Mary-squared is singing about "the sound of victory/the sound of no defeat/the sound of holdin' on/the sound of stayin' strong". It definitely pulls you in by the end.

The CD has a whole radio station vibe, utilizing intros to the next song with (what sounds like) radio station call letters. Cool effect.

"Get Up" is the lead single from the album. It's what Steve Harvey has dubbed "the club song". I definitely understand why. Although Erica and Tina are encouraging you to get off your butts and do something, they also make you want to get off your butts and DANCE!

"Superfriend" has elicted the most talk from people I know and have heard the CD. Featuring rapper David Banner laying out a verse about how he isn't perfect, but God has had his back, the song sounds straight off of the airwaves. Personally, I like it. It bumps. lol. And Banner's verse is honest, which I appreciate.

"God In Me" is my current ringtone. Kierra "KiKi" Sheard lays out some guest vocals on this track, a song that talks about how people often look at you trying to figure out how/why you got it goin' on..."But what they can't see/Is you on your knees/So they next time you get a chance tell 'em/It's the God in Me". That song is hot!! (I heard Michael Baisden play it on his show earlier this week, btw).

The next track, "Boom", is cute to me. It deals with sharing things with others that might be difficult, i.e. "you're jealous, you're selfish, you have a bad attitude". The premise is, you're better off getting it off of your chest than letting it built...eventually, it'll be like "boom!"...and explosion of things you never meant to say in the first place. lol. We've all been there, dude.

"I'm Running" reminds me of 1950's Motown, and I love it. This one is simple, it's about getting closer to God. "So I'm running/if I can't walk then I'll crawl/And I can't help if I fall/Tryin' to get to where You are". It's about the perserverence in getting there. Gotta love that!

"Forgiven Me" is funny, in that it also has old school feel: Its opening actually reminds me of the Jackson 5 song, "Maybe Tomorrow". This is the first slower song on the CD, which deals with remembering where we came from, but never returning there. It thanks God for forgiveness!

The next song, "Dirt", is the closest to classic Mary Mary. It compares life to a garden, that in order to grow, we all "need a little bit of dirt" in our lives. I think it's a great way to acknowledge that..again...none of us are perfect.

Alright, I love love love the next song, "Seattle". The metaphor is great: "Holy Spirit rain like Seattle/Overtake my life like a flood/Like California shake what's not like you/I just want a heart like yours". It's a great mid-tempo song...

It leads right into "I Worship You". The song is powerful in its simplicity. The last few minutes of the song is a modulating repitition of the chorus: "you took everything I was/made me what I am/ and with all I am/I worship you", with an eventual repetition of simply "I Worship You". Although contemporary, I could see this song being sung during praise and worship in pulpits across the country. It's beautiful.

Finally, (if you buy the store CD), is "It Will All Be Worth It", a slow song that lets us know that our stress in life on earth will all be, well, worth it in the end. The closing features a myriad of guest artists, but since I got my cd from iTunes, the only voices I can distinctively make out are Karen Clark Sheard and Rance Allen. I can't tell who those other folks are, but they are numerous. :)

If you purchase the iTunes version (which I HIGHLY recommend), you'll be blessed with "I Trust You", which is my FAVORITE song on the CD. Very real and practical, the lyrics are focused around a failed marriage, and the trust that must remain in God in spite of the circumstances surrounding you. The chorus features Marvin L. Winans singing "I don't know what to do/But what I do know/Is I trust you". The vamp is my favorite part, however: "I trust you and I/I love you cuz you've/Proven yourself over and over again/Don't know just how many times/I needed a friend/You were standing right there in line". Once you hear it, you'll know why. That is repeated and modulated as it builds. Just gives me goosebumps!!

So, that's my review. Mary Mary's "The Sound"? TOTAL WIN.

Randomness

I'm back! I can't tell you why it's taking me a week to blog over here, when my daily existence has been pretty much non-stop. I need to clear my thoughts, so here we go:

** Did anyone see Barack and Michelle on "60 Minutes" last night? They are the most adorable married couple!! They talked about the car he drove during law school, the one with the hole in the floor on the passenger side, and he remarked that she didn't marry him for his money. (cute!) He lamented about his inability to take a walk outside anymore, and said he'd love to take Michelle for a walk, to which she cutely replied, "It's too cold, I'm not walking anywhere with you!". I love them!

** I think it's exceptionally rude when you're exiting an elevator and the person/people waiting to get on don't wait for the elevator to empty first. The elevator ain't goin' nowhere as long as people are in it, dummy.

** My home inspection was this past Friday. It was almost perfect, save an electrical outlet with a non-operational bottom half. Not bad, if you ask me.

** "Saw V". Eh. Meh. Went to see it on Saturday. More of the same, summed up the story, but didn't pack the punch of "Saw". **SPOILER ALERT** When Jigsaw got up off the floor in "Saw", I almost eliminated on myself. That was the craziest thing I'd ever seen.**END SPOILER ALERT**

** I'm starving. My stomach is about to eat itself. And I've recently learned that my stomach doesn't agree with the cream stuffing of Oreo cookies, which is a pretty life-altering thing.

** I didn't know that housebreaking a dog would take this long. Today is Cha Cha's 7 month birthday and she's still having a piss festival on my kitchen floor. And occasionally on the carpet.

** My newest obsession: interior design. I'm trying to nail down the perfect colors for my new walls. I know I have plenty of time to do this, but waiting has never been my strong suit.

** I don't consider myself a fan of Beyonce. I don't own a single one of her CDs, nor any of Destiny's Child stuff. The only Beyonce songs I have on my iPod are "Crazy in Love" and "Listen" (from "Dreamgirls"). I dogged the "Single Ladies" video when I first saw it. But I'll be doggoned, that girl can perform. I have some weird no-homo fascination with her. I DVRed SNL this past weekend so I could watch her perform (and I'm glad I did; the "Dance Biscuits" sketch with her and Justin Timberlake made me laugh so loud that my dog ran in the room to see what was wrong with me). I watched her interview with Oprah last week, along with the performance. And whenever I hear "Single Ladies", it stays in my head for two days.

My New Townhouse!!!!

At 29.5 years old, my dream has come true: I AM A HOMEOWNER!!! My offer was accepted Saturday, and the townhouse pictured above is mine. It was a dream that I thought wouldn't come true, but I've learned that once you get out of your own way and let God take control, anything is possible!!!

I spent the first half of church service in tears yesterday, thanking God for my mother's new job, Obama's election to the Office of President, and my new home. It was truly an amazing week, one that will stand out in my memory for a long, long time.

My closing date is set for December 19, 2008. Because I signed up to work on the 20th like a goofball, I will probably move in on December 21st. Depending upon getting a moving company.

After I sign the contract today and write the first of many checks, I will officially be in escrow.

AMAZING!

Offer Day

I'm a spaz today. My agent submitted my offer for the townhouse last night. She spent all day writing up the offer and researching the property, and she learned that the home has been on the market for a year (!) and the current owners only owe $97,000 on their mortgage. As a result, we dropped my offer price by $10,000 -- considering they would make a profit, regardless. She came over last night to go over the offer, line by line, and had me sign it. In the offer, the closing date is set for December 19, 2008 and we gave them until tomorrow at 7pm to accept or counter. She faxed it over to the seller's agent when she got home last night.

I began to freak out on Tuesday, when the mortgage company emailed me a pre-approval letter and good faith estimate on the home (at full price). My eyes almost bugged out of my head looking at the monthly payment, until I spoke with my mother and she helped diffuse my anxiety by reminding me that a) I probably won't pay full price in a buyer's market b)interest rates can fluctuate dramatically c) and the monthly payment is very close to where I said I wanted to be (once you remove the HOA fees). Whoo-sahhh. Okay I was feeling better, so I told Monique to go ahead and move forward.

So, the offer is officially made! I have the phone next to me, in case we hear back today. I can barely focus. My stomach is in knots! But I'm excited!

I think I'm going to be sick.

(lol)

Pray for me, if that's something you do!

"Barack Obama Elected President"

Once I get around to it, I'll post the picture I took of the television I was watching when those words popped up on screen. It's a moment I'll never forget. I was at my friend's house, watching the countdown ticker as the polls prepared to close in California, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii. I figured they'd immediately add some additional electoral votes to Obama's count, as they did as soon as Pennsylvania's polls close. Instead, those four words appeared on the big screen behind Wolf Blitzer and I went BALLISTIC. (I believe I was the first one in the room to see it -- or at least, react.)

In my head, I have the words of Sam Cooke: "It's been a long/long time comin'/but I know a change is gonna come/Oh yes it is"

And it has.

I hear the words of the congregation singing at Ebenezer Baptist in Atlanta last night: "Deep In my heart/I do believe/We Shall Overcome some day"

Although the country isn't perfect, it's hard not to believe that we have.

I hear the words from a song from one of my favorite movies, "The Wiz": "Everybody look around/'cuz there's a reason to rejoice, you see/Everybody come out/And Commence to singing joyfully/Everybody look up/And feel the hope that we've been waiting for/Everybody's glad/Because our silent fear and dread is gone/ Freedom, you see, has got our hearts singing so joyfully/Just look about/You owe it to yourself to check it out/Can't you feel a brand new day?"

Indeed it is.

Let us keep President-Elect Barack Obama in our prayers.

So, I'm buying my first home....

I broke down and got lazy. Below, my chronicle of this homebuying process from my Xanga blog. It's not over yet.....

October 27, 2008 - "So It Begins"
I finally took the plunge and scheduled a meeting with a mortgage lender. I wanted a clear picture of how much house I can afford at my present salary. It will also help me see if I'm actually ready to be a homeowner or not. Psychologically, I am. Financially...well, I don't know that I've been as diligent with my money as necessary. It's gotten better lately, but I haven't saved up much of a downpayment. So, we'll see.

October 29, 2008 - "Can I Borrow a Few Thousand Dollars?"
This was my lunch meeting with the home loan specialist at Washington Mutual/Chase, Sylvia. I was excited all morning for the meeting, had all of my paperwork, W-2s and paystubs in tow and ready to give to the lady. I was feeling good. Got to the bank, met Sylvia (who is super nice, btw) and got down to it. She told me that due to the recent happenings on Wall Street and the like, banks are no longer accepting anything less than a 10% downpayment. I'm not gonna put ALL my business out there, but in sum, she said that they could offer me a craptastic loan and that I would need a HUGETASTIC downpayment before they'd even consider giving me THAT. This would mean getting a gift from my parents and coming up with the rest myself. She told me that they don't work with any first-time homeowner's programs, (i.e. FHA), so it's 10% or nothing.

Needless to say, I walked out of the bank feeling discouraged. I did the math, and there is no way I could save that much money in a reasonable amount of time. There's no way my family can "gift" me with that much -- and besides, 50% of that downpayment would have to be from my own funds. I called my mom and lamented that I'd be renting for the rest of my life. We discussed my options, which weren't many. I was frustrated, because in an idealistic world, I would've been saving that sum of money since I finished school. However, due to my retardedness in undergrad, I had botched up credit that I've worked VERY hard to fix. And now that I have GOOD credit, I don't have the savings to allow me to get the home I want? I was SO frustrated. I told my mom that my only option was to hit the lottery.

Discouraged, but never defeated, I went back to work and told my co-worker the situation. She immediately gave me the number to her mortgage broker, Jane, who has worked with her on obtaining her two homes. I gave Jane a call and liked her immediately! Over the phone, we went over what just happened at WaMu and I shared with her my difficulties with obtaining the downpayment. She said, "the 3%, you mean?". I said, "they told me TEN!". Jane quickly reassured me that she works with FHA and other programs to reduce the downpayment and get folks into a home. We went over my credit scores, which I conveniently printed off last week, and she told me that due to my good credit and income, she could easily get me a loan that would get me into a nice home. I still need a downpayment, however, which I'll have to conjur up some sort of way. She informed me about the $7500 first-time homebuyers' tax credit, which I can use to repay a "gifted" down-payment, so all I have to do is see who is willing to lend me a few thousand bucks. I had a meeting scheduled with Jane for later that day.

THEN my mom called and told me that she's practically been offered the job in Virginia Beach! (YAY!!!!!) After talking about that for awhile, I told her that I have another mortgage meeting today. My mom told me that if ALL else fails, she'll loan me the money for the downpayment!
Etoshobasha!!!!*running around the room*
*falling to the floor*
THANK YOU JESUS!!!!!!

October 31, 2008 - "Never Give Up!"
My meeting with my second prospective lender, Jane Floyd was on thr 29th. Found the building with no problem and went inside. To the left was a markerboard that said "Welcome Carla B". Really??

I liked this place already.

The receptionist offered me something to drink - I opted for a Coca-Cola - and Jane came out to meet me. This woman was tiny. Like 5'2". I liked her immediately. We went back to her office -- she owns the firm, btw -- and shot the breeze for a minute. As she was out of the office to get some paperwork, I turned around and checked out the back wall. All over were photos of churches that she had helped finance/plant all over the world: Kenya, Vietnam, Pakistan, etc. I was impressed! She returned and we talked about that for a minute. And inside, I thanked God that this woman was a Christian!

We got to talking about my current situation and what it is that I want. She had pulled the listings that I emailed to her, and went through the task of going through the numbers for me. She had good faith estimates on three properties that I had sent her, and three very different price points. This was just to show me how the dollars break down, what affects costs, etc. She answered every single one of my questions, no matter how dumb, and walked me through the process. Told me I was DEFINITELY pre-approved, all I have to do now is go out, find a place, and send her the info! How exciting!!!

I called my agent Monique IMMEDIATELY and told her the good news. She sent me some property listings that night. That night, we had plans to go visit some of the homes. My parents are also aware of what's going on - mentioned it to my dad, along with the $7500 tax credit I'll receive next year, so maybe he'll be willing to contribute to the Down-Payment charity fund. (BTW: all down payment assistance programs have been suspended until further notice. Bummer!)

November 3/4, 2008 - "House Hunter!"
This is all happening VERY fast.

I watch "House Hunters" on HGTV obsessively, along with "My First Place"/"My First Home" and "Property Virgins". That is nothing new. What's funny is, now I feel like I'm on one of those shows, since Monique started showing me properties.

Friday I ran out of work at 3:45 so that I could get home, change, pick up Cha Cha and get to Monique's condo. I made it there by 5, which was cool because we had an appointment to view the first property at 5:30. She also pointed out another property that she thought I might like, but we'd check that one out on Sunday. After sitting in 6 years of traffic, we made it to Westchase and the first condo. It was nice, spacious, but my main concerns were that the floor plan wasn't very open (kitchen and family room were far apart and separated by stairs), there weren't walk-in closets, and there was a set of train tracks not even 100 yards from the front door of the place. The price was right, and the townhouse was in walking distance from super-cute West Park Village, but those train tracks killed it for me.

Second place was around the corner and was a disaster. No balcony/patio, which is a must, and it smelled. The people hadn't even completely moved out, so there was food in the pantry, pests, etc. It was NASTY. We got out of there ASAP, but the burn of the stink stayed in my nostrils for another hour! Looked at two other places, the second was pretty nice and had an AMAZING master suite.It needed a little work, but nothing too major. I told Mo to keep that one on the list.

Sunday after Pastor's Appreciation service (it was themed after the Olympics: super FUN!) , we went to visit the next set of townhomes. These places were faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaantastic!! Everything I was looking for, minus great location. Not that they're in the hood; just further east than I wanted to go. It's still a short commute to work, which is nice. They were also a little pricier than I wanted, but there are two units that are on sale for much cheaper. We went back last night to look at them those.

The first unit was the floor plan that I prefer, with three upstairs bedrooms and an open kitchen. The place was vacant, and the previous owners had painted the walls an interesting mix of orange and green. The walls weren't ugly actually, but the paint job was shoddy. The cons were that the washer/dryer weren't included, no closing costs were being offered and the property is a short sale.

The second unit was the OTHER floor plan, with a ground floor master bedroom and eat-in kitchen. The owners were home unexpectedly, which was awwwwkward! But they were gracious enough to let us come in and look around. I immediately loved this place. The eat-in kitchen was great, there were hardwood floor in the living room, the lanai was screened and HUGE, and the owners said that they will include their two flat screen tvs and surround sound in with the sale. AND they're paying 3% closing costs. So....what else is there to discuss? I told Monique that I'm pretty much ready to make an offer. I just want to confer with the parental units first, for any last minute advice.

Let the games begin!

Absent

I realize I haven't been writing as much as I used to, without much cause. I've begun this massive project, just this week, of becoming a new homeowner. First time. It's consuming most of my time and thoughts, even here at work. I've been writing pretty thorough blogs over on Xanga about the process, and although I think it's lazy to copy/paste those blogs over here, I think that a chronicle of my ups/downs/in-betweens while buying a new home could be beneficial to anyone who plans to do the same. But, I dunno. Right now I have a headache, so I don't feel like writing much of anything. This is as much as I think I'll do today. lol. I also have CD reviews to write: I'm buying music faster than I can listen to it. What I can say though: Mary Mary's latest is FIRE. It's so far out of the "gospel" box that you'll look twice at your iPod once it plays - just making sure you are actually listening to the right CD!

Anyway, after work I'm being shown my first prospective homes. *fingers crossed*

Told You...

Six players on the Cleveland Browns have been infected with staph. Told you.

Cursed.

The Curse....

Currently, the Tampa Bay Rays are in the World Series. They lost Game One last night to the Philadelphia Phillies, 3-2 and Game Two is tonight. (BTW: Philadelphia Phillies? Where is the creativity in naming these teams?) I didn't stay up to watch the game last night. I caught the first three innings, but I'm sorry, watching baseball is like watching paint dry. Give me the 8th and 9th inning, please. Anyway, I had a feeling the Rays weren't going to win anyway, so I went to bed. Sleep is my BFF.

In addition, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied with the Carolina Panthers atop the NFC South. The Super Bowl comes to Tampa Bay during the first weekend of February, and die hard Bucs fans expect to be the "Home Team" at the Super Bowl.

It's exciting. But I don't get excited.

Why?

I'm from Cleveland. The home of "almost, but not quite". It's a city full of teams that, as D.O. put it in his blog, are "scared of success".

Consider it. The Cleveland Cavaliers brought new life to the city when they acquired LeBron James. We made it to the NBA Finals for the first time EVER in 2007. And got swept by the San Antonio Spurs. Lost our 2008 playoff bid to the Celtics, who went on to win it all.

The Cleveland Indians. Remember "Major League"? That was the team until 1995, when the city was ignited by the Indians winning the ALCS and making their first trip to the World Series since 1954. Lost to the Braves in 6 games. 1997 saw another return to the World Series, only to lose to the Florida Marlins in 11 innings, after blowing a lead going into the 9th inning. We lost to fish.

The Cleveland Browns. OMG. The team that disappeared from Cleveland overnight. The team that was devestated by Elway and "The Drive" in the 1986 AFC Championship game. The team that is now regularly rattled with injuries. THOSE Cleveland Browns. I need not say more.

I'd be remiss not to mention the coming and going of other sports franchises such as the Cleveland Lumberjacks, the Cleveland Barons (both hockey), and Cleveland Force, the Cleveland Crunch (soccer) and the current present hockey team, the Lake Erie Monsters. (might I add, the final two teams have the worst names EVER.)

I say all this to say: right now, Tampa Bay is seeing success. Hopefully, things will work in favor of both the Rays and the Bucs and they will "seal the deal". I've never lived in a city with a championship-winning team, except when I lived in Ann Arbor and the Pistons won the NBA Championship. Should the Rays and/or Bucs "blow it", I'll be convinced that the Cleveland Curse has followed me from Ohio, instilling the fear of success into the local sports franchises.

Follow-Up

So, after being hot like fire on Saturday night, I eventually calmed down. I thank this blog and my girl Ashley on Yahoo IM for talking me out of fury. lol. I spoke with the offender this morning; she called to ask me a work question. She apologized for Saturday night, explaining that one of the "crew" "forced" her to go out and she didn't initiate it. I calmly explained how her actions - or, inaction - left several of us feeling angry and excluded (at least two of us, cuz the girl I went out with last night was also supposed to go). I had nothing else to say. She continued to explain, I didn't reply because I wasn't trying to cause an argument. She knows how I feel. Issue closed.

Last night I attended my first-ever NFL game. The Buccaneers played the Seahawks. We scored tickets from my co-worker, whose husband has season tix. One of the girls from work, a 40-something-recently-separated-about-to-get-divorced-new-Tampa-resident, had asked me last week if I was into football. She's looking for someone to attend games with, and I was down for the cause. So when the tickets became available, we were all over it. Even though the game was at 8:15pm. After putzing around Tampa all day with Cha Cha (and consuming some schlammin' jambalaya, courtesy of my auntie), I met Brenda at her house in South Tampa. Yo dude, that's where the well-off folks live. We rode over to her sister's house, literally down the street, as her husband was going to drop us off at the stadium and save us a parking charge (good lookin' out!). Their house was ridiculous. A Mediterranean style home with gigantic doors, and the inside had an open floor plan, with tiled floors and a huge kitchen with your standard stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. I was blown away.

Anyway, we went to the game and had fun. I wish I had an exciting story to go with this (lol). The seats were in section 300, row B, right on the 50 yard line. We were in the sky, but had a great view. It's funny sitting with season ticket holders; they all know each other and are sooooooooooo serious about everything. But, they were cool. Somehow we got seated right behind two Seahawks fans, and although they didn't have much to cheer about, when they did, the chick would get up and start screaming and get glared at by everyone else in our section. However, they spent most of their time shaking their heads. There was a scary moment in the second quarter, when receiver Ike Hilliard was railed by two Seahawks defenders and was out cold for about 2 minutes. I almost started crying when he got up and walked himself to the cart, considering EMS and the backboard were already out on the field. What a relief, I hate to see that stuff. Then, those Seattle jerks challenged the call and Hilliard was charged with a fumble.

There was some random older lady in our section talking to all of the security guards and cameramen. A definite Botox and collagen consumer, this lady was bleach blonde, had huge boobs and was wearing stilettos. At a football game. Brenda and I were trying to figure her out. I don't know why she was trying to schmooze the guards...perhaps to meet a player? But, why in section 300? She was ridiculous.

This was my first time hanging out with Brenda -- she's definitely cool and we had some laughs. I don't know that she'll be a BFF type, but she's cool. I got real sleepy around the third quarter, (dude, it was like 10pm), so I got quiet. She is all about trying to kick it, already asking me what I'm doing this upcoming weekend. I have plans on Saturday...more co-worker stuff, hopefully this one won't cancel on me like the last...but I'm sure I'll hang with her more in the future.

Back to work I go.

A Matter of Principle

I'm home on Saturday night. But not by my doing. And I'm pissed about it, so I'm here to vent.

Back in July, I made a conscious decision to give the Tampa nightlife a rest for a minute. I told my friends - coworkers/party animals - that I've never been one to go out EVERY weekend and I needed to slow down. I haven't gone clubbing or bar-hopping with them since. In the meantime, they've all grown extremely closer and have formed this "Charlie and the Angels" clique. I mean, it's fine that I'm not an "angel". I'd probably be known as "Conservative Angel" anyway.

But I digress. The "gangleader" of sorts/aka Event Planner recently had a birthday. She went out of town for her actual birthday, so told me several weeks ago that tonight we'd be going out to celebrate. She said that she is finally growing tired of clubbing, and wanted to initially go to the Clearwater Jazz Festival. I was like "chia, that's more like it!". That changed to a jazz lounge shortly thereafter, which was cool too. Then, earlier this week, it changed yet again to dinner in Ybor City and plans to-be-determined. (The Rays game is tonight, so they wanted to go somewhere to watch it). I pouted a little, but I said I'd be willing to hang no matter what. My weekend was nicely planned.

So, earlier today I got a text from "Gangleader" stating that she hadn't heard from her current love interest, was in a funk, and was therefore cancelling dinner. Cancelling a bday celebration over a ni99a? Really? Okay. I replied and told her that I hoped she felt better soon. And I decided to make it a Blockbuster night instead of finding an alternate plan. The first meeting of my new book club was at 7pm, but since I hadn't even PURCHASED the book, I held to my previous RSVP of "no, sorry I can't make it, prior commitment". So I've been home watching a million movies and going heads up with this puppy -- who is pooping out her food every hour, on the hour. I was so frustrated that I brought out my glass and this berry mojito mix I had in the fridge. Yes, my dog drove me to alcohol. So, I was gulping that and starting to feel good, when by happenstance I checked MySpace. And, Gangleader's MySpace status had been changed to:

"I am going to Ybor tonight to hang out with the fam for my birthday!"

I immediately texted this broad and said "saw your myspace status. I thought everything was cancelled. Y'all went out anyway"?

Her: "Ya we at karaoke I needed to be out"

Me: "U must've forgot to tell me. I was planning to kick it with yall tonight"

Her: "Come through it was a last min thing my bad I was in a funk"

(at this point I'm fuming, because clearly her funk didn't prevent her from calling/texting the remainder of the "crew" to tell them PARTY ON!)

Me: "I'm good. It's too late, I'm settled. Have fun" (that's so my personality -- passive-aggressive like a mug)

Her: "my bad we'll do it again soon"

(mind you she said that last time they went to karaoke and they didn't call me)

I'm so done. Although I'm bored stiff and NEEDED a few hours away from this puppy, I'll be dammmmmmed if I get up, shower and dress at 11pm because I was a friggin' AFTERTHOUGHT. Nigga please! If you WANTED me there, you would've included me in the text flurry you initiated once you decided to go out. Don't invite me out once I call you on your glaring omission. And don't think for a minute that I'm going to drop everything and come out the next time you are gracious enough to extend me an invitation. WTFever dude.

Whooosahhhhh.

Time for another glass of the berry yumminess.

New Music: Marvin Winans Jr, "Image of a Man"

Over the past several weeks I have purchased and downloaded a crapload of music. Tosha has a nice feature on her blog where she reviews some of her recent purchases. Sorry for being a "biter", but I think I'll do the same! I have bought the latest CDs by Ne-Yo (which Tosha reviewed nicely), Robin Thicke, and Deitrick Haddon and copped the debut CDs by Jennifer Hudson and Jazmine Sullivan. However, I haven't listened to nan one of them (except Ne-Yo), because I've had Marvin Winan Jr's debut CD, "Image of a Man", permanently stuck in my CD player. I was looking online for a review of the album, to see if other folks are as stuck on it as I am, and was shocked to find nothing -- although it premiered #10 on the Billboard Gospel Charts (not so bad for the first CD released on a new independent label!) So, I felt the need to review this one first...eventually I'll listen to the others and do the same. (lol)

Marvin Winans Jr, "Image of a Man"
Released Sept. 30, 2008 on M2 Entertainment

Anxiously anticipated for several years now by many fans, "Image of a Man" does not disappoint. An inspirational CD with strong crossover potential, Winans aims to reach not only the gospel audience, but attract those who may not necessarily be into traditional "gospel" music. A variety of innovative sounds, thanks to the contributions of powerhouse producers such as Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins and Warryn Campbell in addition to newcomers David Garcia, Josiah Bell and Josiah Winans, places this CD faaaar outside of the "gospel music" box. Expect major crossover success once the music reaches the ears of the masses.

Track-by-Track Recap (linked to sample tracks)

1) "Image of a Man" (1 on iTunes, #14 on store-bought CD)
Written by Marvin Winans Jr (MWj) and Joe "Flip" Wilson
Produced by Joe "Flip" Wilson

What first grabbed me about this song is the handclaps. Odd, right? I was jammin'. (lol) Winans' voiceover over the progressive addition of musical elements ("This is who I am") leads to the opening of the song, in which he proclaims that who he is really HAS no explanation. Our existence is part of a greater plan and hopefully, folks will get with the program.

This is the Image of a Man/ I hope you understand/This is not my plan/I'm just the image of a man

2) "You Never Let Me Down"
Written by Rodney Jerkins and MWj
Produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins

This is the lead single from the CD, with a highly anticipated accompanying video soon to be released. Caribbean-influenced beats make this a song you can ride to! The song could have many meanings, as it's a declaration of gratitude. Who has never let you down? God? Your spouse? Your best friend?

When I'm lost and there's no other way/I know you'll be there just to light up the day/You Never Let Me Down

3) "It's Been So Long"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj

You know what got me first with this song? Its groove!! This is not mom & pop's music y'all -- it's the reason why the album is so difficult to classify as "gospel". But the message stands strong; it's plea to God for reacceptance after straying away and realizing that life is nothing without God. Oh, and it's my jam. (lol)

Now how can I live without 'cha?/Cuz I'm only alive when I'm with ya/It's cold out here on my own/Without of the warmth of your love inside

4) "Feel It All"
Written by MWj
Produced by MWj and Josiah Bell

Have you ever gone through something and looked for those closest to you, only to find that they're not there? That's what this song is about; encouraging those closest to you. You never know what someone might be going through. Sometimes you have to reach out and let your people know that you're feeling their pain. Winans and Bell combine to create a nice mid-tempo R&B groove.

How can you expect anyone for anyone to care/For your situations when you don't care for theirs?/You might run into a problem where you need a friend/Reach back and the hand you need isn't there

5) "Put Your Love on Me"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj.

As I understand it, this was to be the original lead single for the CD. I've seen some feedback on Marvin's MySpace page by some fans who state that it should've been. Either way, this might be the next one. It's a track that bumps. Winans talks about the disappointments that often come at the hands of others, and pleads for God to touch him in his time of hurt.

Where would I be if I didn't know you loved me?/Put Your Love on Me/Put Your Love on Me/How could I live without your love around me?

6) "Steps to a Man"
Written and Produced by MWj

I'm beginning to think that this is my favorite song on the CD. Never did I expect to hear a rock ballad on this joint. (lol) When I first heard it, I was like 'man that's a nice song'. But when I actually listened to it, the lyrics grabbed me. It's deeply personal, and although I am a woman and know nothing about being a man, the second verse was pretty much a page out of my life. And dude, I had no idea that Marvin had that crazy range. Dude.

How could the lights begin to fade on a love that was so true?/Or maybe untrue?/I can't fathom how it all began and ended as fast/Why couldn't it last?

7) "Come 2 Me"
Written by MWj and Warryn Campbell
Produced by Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell

One of the early "releases" from this CD, "Come 2 Me" is a plea from God for all of us to turn to Him during our time of pain. It has a smooth R&B sound that is guaranteed to have to bobbing your head.

Life may pull you low/But I'm on high/You can do so much better now/Heaven is my home/But I should live inside your heart

8) "U Know Love"
Written by Noel Fisher and MWj
Produced by Noel "Detail" Fisher

This song's bassline is crazy. That's the first thing you'll notice: your rearview mirror rattling. (lol) Winans speaks to the ladies here; those who rely on material things and attention from men to find fulfillment. He states that love is more than this; love is more than a temporary feeling, and admonishes ladies in this situation to hold out for the real thing!

She's gotta have Dolce & Gabbana/Louis, Gucci and Prada/Spending all that she got/So the fellas can say that like everything they see/Cuz everybody likes fantasies/They wanna dream a little dream/But it's never what it seems

9) "Believe"
Written by Fred Jerkins, Lashawn Daniels and MWj
Produced by Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins

The title speaks for itself! lol. Simply put, believe that God will do what you ask Him to! Just believe! Another uptempo jam from Fred Jerkins! (I bet you find yourself "car dancing" at the break...lol)

Belieeeeeeeeve/I'll do it!

10) "Mistakes"
Written and Produced by MWj

Beautifully simple, with Winans singing at the piano, this song is an apology for shortcomings. Hello, we've all jacked up one way or another, so we can all relate! It's a plea for God to come in a clean up yet another mess. Absolutely gorgeous song.

Who can shield me from dismay if you don't?/Who can kiss the pain away if you won't?/I need love/I need love in the hardest way/Like the Romans say/My mistakes weren't build in a day

11) "Push Pull (It's Alright)"
Written by MWj and David Garcia
Produced by David Garcia and MWj

Now, we've all been there. Someone has pushed you to the point of nuttin' up. In this mid-tempo song, Winans encourages us out here to take a minute and walk away before you say something crazy. Folk will push you to that point -- grab the door and push/pull your way outta there! :-P

Push Pull/I know what you're going through/If they don't get you that's okay/I know you feel they gotta pay/Go and walk out that door/You wanna just let it show/If you can't find the words to say/Then let it go and know it's alright

12) "A Single Rose"
Written and Produced by MWj

This is a beautiful love song to Jesus, a song of gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice. Winans is joined by David May on acoustic guitar.

And I care about the time you spent on the cross/Looking down on a world that was so lost/Trying to decide if it was worth the pain/Just to let every man and woman live again

13) "Let It Out"
Written and Produced my MWj

Relationships. They come and go; question is, how do you cope when they end? In some cases, people have difficulty moving on. In this song, Winans encourages us to release that pain, not to let it eat away at you. He cites people who have killed/commited suicide to escape the pain. There's a better solution!!

Let It Out/Yes You Can//You'll Start Anew, just/Let it out/As you cry/You can try to/Go ahead and pray/If you never have you can start today/Yes I know things might be hard for you/But please don't hold it, control it, you know you should let it out

14) "Believe ('Baby Brotha' Remix)"
Remix by Josiah "Baby Brotha" Winans

MWj lets his younger brother take the reins on this remix to "Believe", and the younger bro handles himself nicely! If this were back in the day, I'd probably call this a "skate mix"! Baby Brotha brings in the synthesizers and ramps the song up a notch, guaranteed to make you dance!! :)

Next up: whatever I eventually listen to next. I've got a long list of music...probably no more track-by-track reviews tho. That took forEVER.

VOTE OR DIE!!!

With foolishness like this, a vote for Obama is almost a necessity. Click the picture for a better view of "a mature and racially tolerant America".

Supposedly taken in Florida. I'm so proud.

Random Thought Post

It's been a while since I actually remained loyal to the purpose of this blog. Let the drain begin:

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I don't know, maybe I'm being unreasonable, but why do people wait until they actually get sick to worry about their health insurance? It amazes me, the number of people who ask to see the social worker once hospitalized, and ask about getting hooked up with Medicaid. And, of course, I can't help them get it. I direct them back to the Department of Children and Family services because that's all I can do. I want people to be more proactive, especially when children are involved. Don't wait until the day you get discharged from the hospital and ask "oh, so what about health insurance?" Preventative care can help you avoid these hospital visits to begin with. [/end PSA]

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I've finally decided to go ahead and apply for my Florida licensure. I know, I'm a bum. I've worked here over a year and am just getting around to this. Part of the process is the completely annoying task of pulling my college transcript and printing out the corresponding course descriptions from my graduate program. Going through my transcript made me extremely nostalgic. My college days were good. Perfect, no. But enjoyable. My classes were interesting, and although I experienced my fair share of stress during those days, nothing compares to the stuff I deal with now. There was more to do, more spontenaity, more MEN to choose from (hello!), and a quality of life that you never see again. I didn't get involved in a lot of mess during college - I was a "good girl" - but I had fun nonetheless. There is so much I would've done differently, so many things I'd keep the same, some decisions I would've reversed, and I probably would've traveled abroad for a semester. If only I had a time machine....

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I called my mother on Saturday night to see how her interview went in Virginia, and she sounded real choked up. I asked what she was doing, and she told me that she just finished blubbering through the season premiere of "CSI:". I had taped it, but put off watching it because I knew it would be brutal. I finally watched it last night. I won't go into details for those who may follow or may be waiting to watch it on their DVRs also, but I SOBBED through the entire episode. Oh Gawd. I cried so hard that I had a headache afterwards. I had to go to bed! I felt kinda stupid crying over a tv character like that...you just never know how some things will affect you!

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These election ads are making me nuckin' futs. If I see the "Obama's Blind Ambition" ad one more time (I promise, they show it every 15 minutes). Everytime I see Sarah Palin on tv and hear her speak, I throw up a little in my mouth. I can't wait for all of this to be over. I'm ready for our new president....President Obama :)

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So. Suze Orman was on Oprah yesterday (?) and, as usual, was yelling at people about their financial decisions. Don't get me wrong, I love Suze, but everytime I get serious about buying a home she scares me out of it. She was talking to a young lady in a very similar financial situation as me, who was looking for her first home at the same price point that I'm considering, and Suze told her that she can't afford it. *facepalm* Sadly, the girl on tv had more money saved than I currently do, which is all the more depressing. It's scaring me out of something that is already kinda scary -- but I NEED to do this. I NEED to buy a home!

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Today my stepmother turns 50 years old. I love the internet. In my broken mind, her birthday is 10/16, not 10/14. I realized this on yesterday, so I hurried up and ordered some flowers, which have already been delivered. *sigh* I'm glad, she'll be surprised when she gets home. :)

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My girlfriends and I are planning to cruise Royal Caribbean's "Oasis of the Seas" -- in 2010. I know it's a loooong way away, but the ship doesn't have its maiden voyage until next December, and cabins are already selling out well into 2010. The travel agent gave us a tentative sail date of October 30, and is going to hold a block of cabins for us. The organizer is going to put together a flyer, which I will forward to all interested parties. Now, here's the tricky thing - as you know, 2010 is two years away. A LOT can change in two years. My girl and I were both laughing about this today. It's very difficult to make cabin assignments when most of us happily anticipate being married or at least seriously dating someone in October 2010. Looks like many of the women going - sad to say - are reserving cabins in their own name, hoping to add that companion later on. And, if it doesn't happen, will then find a girl to room with. Cabin assignments aren't hard to change. It's just a funny reality as we try to plan this trip -- and we both agree that we'll be SALTY if our roommate is a female chick.

The Weekend

Okay, since Miss TOSHA fussed me out on Facebook (lol), I GUESS I'll log an entry as a follow-up to my prior post. But I have something more pressing to discuss first.

Like...

WHAT THE KCUF IS WRONG WITH THE MICHIGAN WOLVERINES?!?! We lost to TOLEDO on Saturday. TOLEDO. This season has gone to hell faster than OJ Simpson in gasoline draws. My boys in blue, once a football powerhouse among not only the Big Ten, but throughout the NCAA, now have us wondering if we'll even see a bowl game come December/January. My friend is flying to Michigan from LA for a game next month (versus Northwestern), and is afraid that we'll end up with another hash mark in the "L" column. WTF! I don't know this team. I'll still support them, still rock my maize and blue, but I have ZERO trash to talk when time comes for the almighty matchup with Ohio State. *facepalm*

Ok, so onto the blind date that I was anxious about when I wrote the last post. We met up at the local Bahama Breeze restaurant on Friday night. He told me what he'd be wearing, so I spotted him immediately. I really didn't want to be there, by the way. I'm so not into this type of thing. Anyway, my co-worker exaggerated a little when she said he doesn't look "anything close to 47". To me, he totally did. How do I describe him -- tall, regular build, mustache, thinning brown hair, crooked smile. He's a nice guy, but I felt no attraction whatsoever. First thing he said was "I already knew what you'd look like." I looked at him like he had 5 heads, and he admitted that he tracked me down on MySpace and saw my page. (sorry, but that was weird to me). I asked how that was possible, as my page is privatized, and he said that he punched in my first and last name and just saw my profile pic. Oh, okay. But still...:-/. Conversation was unremarkable. Like I said, nice guy, no attraction. It's clear he has money -- he mentioned that he owns several rental properties in Tampa, works from home, and flossed a $100 bill to pay for our appetizers and drinks, but money isn't enough for me. I think we could be cool, but I have no romantic interest.

So, the date wasn't as horrible as my Facebook status made it seem, I'm just over the "blind" introductions. I'd rather meet someone the way I always have -- in person. OR, if I'm gonna be set up, let it be by someone who knows me and what makes me tick. Less uncomfortable dinner meetings will occur that way.

Personal Preference

**breaking my own rules again**

So I have a blind date tonight. I don't fare well on blind dates. (that's another post). Basically, my co-worker approached me a couple weeks ago and told me that there's this guy she knows and wants us to meet. *le sigh* In an effort to remain open-minded, I told her that she could give him my number, after getting some preliminary information about him. First red flag: she asked my age and when I told her "29", she was like - "oh good, he likes 'em young". I was like "how the hayle old IS he?". "47..but he doesn't look it or act it at ALL". *blank stare*. Do you know that my stepmother will be 50 next week?? I'm just sayin'. Too old.

I had completely forgotten about this until yesterday, when the guy called. He would like to meet up today for a drink, that way we can see if there's anything there or not. I have a feeling I already won't be interested. Why, do you ask?

Age, for one, but this is where it gets sticky. It's clear that he is a white man. I've never dated white men, never particularly had interest in doing so. I love, appreciate and am attracted to black men sooooo much that I've never been led to give up on them (tempted, yes..lol). Even in spite of the shady stuff they've done to me. My good friend just married an Italian man and encouraged me to stay open-minded about other races, but I still don't think I'm there yet. Unless this man looks like George Clooney or Matthew McConaughey (who, by the way, has a very hard name to spell), I probably won't go for it. I agreed to meet him and see how it goes, but I'm walking in with my mind already made up. I feel like Sanaa Lathan in the beginning of "Something New", when she meets the guy for the first time at Starbucks and is like 'hecks naw'.

So what is a delicate way to approach this issue, next time someone tries to set me up? My co-worker, who is white or Latina (I'm not sure), never asked me if I'm into white guys. I felt it would've been politically incorrect to ask her of his race/ethnicity, but why waste this guy's time if I'm not interested? And do I say anything to him at ALL about it??

Ray Ray 'nem & Carnival uglyness

First up: Bridgette and Maya give their impression of Carnival's decor in the main dining room



Next: One of "'nem" with Ray-Ray's group offers her rendition of "And I Am Telling You". Please note: her girl wore the same shirt as she, only with no pants. Also note my friends' reaction to the singing.

Cruise in Review

Although it would be easier to copy & paste my recap from Xanga over here, I prefer to write another cruise review instead. I did a play-by-play recap over there, but this post will be more critical. After taking two cruises in one year on two different cruise lines, and two VERY different ships, a compare/contrast & partial photoblog would be more fun to me.


June 1, 2008 - June 8, 2008
Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas
Miami, FL to San Juan, PR, St. Thomas USVI and St. Maarten

When it set sail in 2006, it was the largest cruise ship in the world at 160,000 tons. The thing can hold 3,600+ passengers, is 1,111 ft long, has 15 decks, a Ben & Jerry's, Johnny Rockets and two additional restaurants in addition to the main dining room and buffet grill. The Royal Promenade stretches through the middle of the ship like a city street, lined with bars, shops and restaurants. The decor - gorgeous. There is an ice skating rink and Flowrider surfing simulator, along with a rock climbing wall. And let's not forget my favorite part of the cruise: cruise director Richard Spacey, who had me even looking forward to the morning announcement just so I could hear what funny thing he'd say next. The rest of the staff was amazing, from our room steward Desmond, to our waitress Marvalyn, to the beverage waiter Junior, to the rest of the entertainment staff. The production shows were excellent, comedians funny, and there was always Richard. Freedom did have an unfair advantage, because it was a 7 day cruise, but still. Our stateroom had a large balcony, with a retractable divider between the one next to us, allowing us to connect our balcony with William and Rhonda's. The only issues I had with the cruise was the late karaoke times and the fact that my mom and her friends were early birds, leaving me alone on the ship most of the time.


Some other pics from the Freedom:

The fantastic Royal Promenade

The stage between the sports pool and main pool on Deck 11

Me and Richard Spacey, our amazing cruise director

The Arcadia Theater

So, that was my first Royal Caribbean experience. I told myself that I was an RC convert after that cruise. But I had this one yet to complete:


October 2 - October 6, 2008

Carnival Inspiration

Tampa, FL to Cozumel, Mexico

The Carnival Inspiration had its maiden voyage in 1996. The ship is 70,367 tons, is 855 ft long, and has a passenger capacity of 2,052. There are 10 decks. From land, any cruise ship will look large. Although the Freedom took my breath away, I was still able to appreciate the size of the Inspiration. My first Carnival cruise was on the Ecstasy, which I don't even think sails anymore and my second was on the Carnival Pride, which was pretty large. Since the RC cruise was so fresh in my mind, however, that was my point of comparison. So, bullet-by-bullet, here were the differences:

• Check-in: On RC, the check-in process - even for a regular stateroom - was swift and effective inside the terminal. Both cruise lines offered online check-in, but in the Carnival terminal, if you weren't VIP, you had to stand in a massive line that moved at a snail's pace. Thank the LORD we were VIPs.




• Aesthetics: You saw the Royal Promenade above, right? The Inspiration's grand atrium paled in comparison, and the decor was....well...take a look:

• The People: So, this is where I'll sound super-bougie. But the people on the Carnival ship were GHETTTTTTTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOOOO. You could TELL that this cruise was on sale, because Ray-Ray 'nem were out in full force. And folks weren't particularly friendly either. I don't know if it was because it was this side of the country or what, because I don't remember the Carnival Pride, which left out of LA, being that bad. Lil' Wayne lookalikes and burnt orange lobster people everywhere. The whole feel of the ship was drastically different than the Freedom. I saw fingerwaves and matching lime green outfits and booty claps in the dance club. *smh*



• Food: Perhaps this is TMI, but although the food was good on the Carnival cruise, we all spent the entire cruise constipated. All nine of us. Seriously. We weren't eating a lot of foolishness. Something just wasn't right.

• Production Shows: Royal Caribbean offered an amazing magician, three elaborate musical productions, the uber-hilarious "Love and Marriage" gameshow, and Richard Spacey at each one. Carnival gave us "Shout", an erratic musical revue with no real theme (how "Macarena" and "Joyful, Joyful" fit into the same show, I'll never know). They also offered "Fiesta Latina" aka "Latin Confusion" ("Day-O"? Really?). The cruise director was Risa, and wasn't very engaging and not really funny. We caught their version of the Love & Marriage gameshow on the ship tv channel, and at the end they humiliated the husbands by making them dance around the stage in boxers and suspenders. Only. *wtf*

• Shore Excursions: I'm giving it to Carnival on this one. RC didn't really have any excursions of interest, so we didn't purchase one in any of the three ports we visited. On the other hand, I had the opportunity to zip line and rappel in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta on the Pride, and in Cozumel three of my friends and I participated in the "Amazing Cozumel Race", which was unbelievably fun. We may have been stinky, sore and tired, but it was well worth the $81 we spent.



• Pool Decks: The Inspiration's pool was pitiful. We dubbed it the Baby Wading Pool, because in essence, that's what it was. And it was filled with saltwater, which...why? They did have a water park in the back with a twisty slide, which was fun. But no pool to soak or float in made it not so great. There were also two hot tubs, but the kids took them over. Both ships had "adults only" areas that are off-limits to folks under 21, and they were both veeeery relaxing. RC had "adults only" hot tubs that jetted out from the side of the ship, which totally made my life wonderful.

Inspiration's pool deck

When we completed the comment card, the final question was: would you cruise Carnival again. I actually checked "no". I think it's cool for a first time/second time cruise, or at least until you cruise another line and actually know better. Of my group of nine, I was the only person who had cruised before. And although they all said that they'd cruise again, a few of my girls said that they wouldn't do Carnival again. My friend Maya even said, "I don't think I'm a Carnival girl". Could it be due to the scattered foolishness throughout the ship? Or the fact that everyone in our cabin had sinus issues except me? Or perhaps we just have different tastes than what Carnival can offer. I do partially blame my mother's friend William for poisoning me against Carnival, but he's right....as much as I hate to admit it. I think the dancing chaser lights in the dining room sealed the deal for me. (lol)

zzzzzzzz

Just got in from my cruise to Cozumel. I am exhausted. I will write a "real" blog later, along with responding to comments from earlier blogs. But right now, this girl needs a nap. I have two airport runs to make today; one in merely an hour, so any nap I take will be brief. What I will say is this:

4 days = Too short
Cozumel = great
Carnival = I'm done
Suite w/balcony = only way to go

I'll be back to write later!

"NOBODY makes me bleed my own blood!"

Genius. Last night I went to take a bite of my sandwich and my lip split. I don't quite understand how this happened, considering I keep Chapstick with me at all times. And I mean, it was bleeding. *wtf* I am probably compounding the problem by putting on more Chapstick, but how else do I stop the ouchy?

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One of the vendors stopped by and blessed me with a $5 Starbucks giftcard. Mind you, I haven't had a white mocha in about three weeks now. I was feenin' for some Starbucks this morning too, so I went around 11:00. The barista asked me where I had been, because - yes - I was in that joint every morning at one point. I told her that "my economy has been in a recession". She drew up my regular, made it a grande instead of a tall, and threw in an extra espresso shot for kicks and giggles. I am so hyper right now I don't know what to do with myself. Caffeine is no JOKE!

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I've finally downloaded my application to register for my social work license in Florida. I was pissed when I moved here, because my Ohio license didn't transfer and I had to do the process all over again. And it's all about $$$$, which I find ironic considering social workers don't get paid that much to begin with. At least I downloaded the application. Step one: completed.

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It's so hard to stay focused when you're going on vacation the next day. This entire day has pretty much been a loss. I'd much rather blog, read blogs, and refresh Facebook constantly than do actual work.

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Marvin Jr aka Coconut had his CD release party at Perfecting Church last night (Detroit). Sadly, I couldn't attend due to tomorrow's travels. They aren't that lenient with the days off, and as I said before, my economy is in a recession. I heard the party was REALLY nice. He premiered the music video that I gave blood, sweat and tears to help get shot here in Tampa, and he sang a duet with his father, Pastor Winans. I would've LOVED to see that. Fortunately, my girl videotaped it. ***waiting patiently for the upload*** I'll link to it when it's up.

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My girl is starting a book club here in Tampa. I think it's a great idea. A book club is something I've always wanted to be a part of, but never had the initiative to start one or find a good one. I'm looking forward to participating. There is always a wrinkle though. This is my friend from church, my park pal. She and I are..how can you say.. more "liberal" Christians. Meaning, we recognize our imperfections, love the Lord with all of our hearts, minds and souls, but don't live life closed up in the "Christian" box. Trust, I used to be that girl. I'm still pretty conservative, but I'll see an R rated movie, or sip a martini, or...well, let's just say I've relaxed. My girl will drop a four letter word at the drop of a hat, especially if she's pissed. At any rate, some of the people invited to the book club are still "in the box". She sent out a text asking if anyone would be offended if she chose a book using profanity or sexuality. I wrote back and said "girl I am not trying to read TD Jakes books and Christian fiction! There are far too many good books out there!! Just TELL them that the books are not by Christian authors and let them decide whether or not they want to participate, before this turns into Monday night bible study!!". (lol) So she wrote back and INFORMED us that some of the books might offend a few participants. Religious folk are a trip, you can't leave certain things up to discussion!

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Ok why did I totally forget to eat lunch today? LMBO!!!!

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My mind is racing, but I think I just hit a mental brick wall. I guess I'll go write some assessments.

This is MY Life!

I can never quite understand why people tend to be so concerned about MY actions and decisions I make. It's one thing to care and be concerned that I might be making a poor decision, but it's another thing to basically chastize me for something I have or have not done. Especially when it has no adverse effect whatsoever on their life. I've been confronted with this in the past few weeks in a variety of ways, none of which make sense to me. I have to stop and ask; why do you CARE so much?

There is the trivial stuff: my friend snidely remarking that she's "sick" of me carrying my red purse. I'm sorry - I happen to LIKE my red purse, I'm sorry if that offends you! If it does, buy me a new purse! I won't complain. Comments about how I should do "more" with my hair, how I should cut it, let it grow, etc. Seriously? Unless you are coming over to personally shampoo, condition and style my hair, whatever I choose to do with this head of hair is MY business.

Then there are the bigger issues: my life decisions. Now, I understand wanting to "guide" a friend out of making a bad decision, but in the grand scheme of things, those decisions rarely have a significant impact on the day-to-day life of the "intervener". There are alway exceptions to the rule, of course. Perhaps you don't want me to date a certain guy because it is nothing but a disaster waiting to happen. But if I don't have enough insight to see that, or can't take off the rose-colored glasses long enough to notice the impending train wreck, what's that got to do with YOU?!?! Without getting too specific, I have one friend that used to scrutinize almost everything I did, be it my current beau or...well that was mainly it. Whatever I chose to do with him, there was a commentary. What's funny is that when the tables turned, and I noticed her making similar decisions to the ones I made, I didn't say a word. Although I might not have agreed with some of the things...because hindsight is always 20/20...I knew it wasn't my business.

It's one thing to ASK someone for their opinion and getting an honest reply, but it's the unsolicited advice that irks me to no end. Next time I want some direction, I'll ASK for it!

I wanted to delve deeper into this pet peeve, but I am struggling to keep my eyes open so Ineed to walk around!!!

Before I go, allow me to showcase one of my favorite songs from Marvin Winans Jr's debut CD, "Image of a Man" in stores TODAY!!!

"Been So Long"

(as leaked and bootlegged on YouTube)

Mondays Suck!

In spite of the short week, I feel like running out of the front door, never to return again. Sometimes this working thing is totally overrated. Not to mention, I'm in my post-lunch slump right now. What I wouldn't give for a tall white mocha double shot, no whip, right now. But I've done VERY well with my Starbucks/caffeine weaning program. Since I last wrote about it, I've been to Starbucks twice: once last Monday morning and this past Saturday, while shopping in Orlando (it was a Frappuccino type Saturday). As far as the soda goes, I had a Pepsi last Sunday and a Pepsi Friday night at the debate party. Otherwise, it's been juice and water. I'm quite proud of myself.

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I never appreciated the awesome shopping opportunities in Orlando until this past weekend. Sure, I've been there before and have gone shopping, but something was extra special about this past weekend. I visited two establishments I hadn't visited before; The Prime Outlets on the north end of I-Drive, and the Mall at Millenia. Seriously, I had been missing OUT! They have almost every store you could ever want, and then some. I'm not even a huge shopping freak - after all, I want to buy a home and I need to develop better saving habits - but I made an exception this weekend.

Speaking of which, I purchased the most expensive "clothing" item I've ever bought: a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps. To some this may be no big deal, but I've NEVER been fashion-savvy enough to wrap my mind around spending *that* much on a pair of shoes. And although they were significantly marked down, they were still expensive. After almost having a panic attack about whether or not to buy them, I bit the bullet. And have been completely enlightened. I never knew the power of the "great shoe". I've bought cheap shoes my whole life, but to slip your foot into a designer shoe and wear it with a favorite dress? Made me feel spectacular. Nevermind that I was going to church -- lol -- I was fabulous and chic!! And they feel wonderful on my feet. Now I know what they mean when they say that certain shoes can make your feet happy. :-)

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Add "Coke today", to that caffeine list. I actually nodded off at my desk. Never a good thing.

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Last but not least...."Image of a Man" drops tomorrow!!!!!!:

Sticker Shock

So I've finally experienced the effects of this economic downturn!

Ok, that was far too excited, let me try again:

I'm finally feeling the effects of the economic downturn. (And, I really REALLY need to break my habit of overusing exclamation points). I hit the grocery store yesterday for the first time in eleventy-million months, and walked out with a receipt higher than I have ever accumulated. (except, perhaps, than when I first moved here). Granted, my fridge stock was on the low-low, so that clearly contributed to the high dollar amount that popped up on the cash register. But, $4 for milk $3 for cheese: it all adds up to foolishness being withdrawn from my bank account. Then I immediately drove to the nearest gas station to prevent the gray ghost from going dry. Another hit to the pocketbook. Not to mention, I've been bit by this Homebuying Bug too...the prospective costs of that have me considering other lines of work. I need to make more money!!!!

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Ne-Yo's new CD "Year of the Gentleman" is pretty frickin' great. My girl Tosha gave a great review of the CD on her site. Make sure you get the version with the remix to "Miss Independent" with Jamie Foxx. Good stuff. I miss music that just makes you feeeeel good.

Speaking of which, cheap plug -- my homie Marvin Winans Jr. drops his debut CD, "Image of a Man" on TUESDAY!!! I am soooooo excited!! I've heard the CD multiple times while hanging out with him, and it's that deal. No lie. It's hot! Check him out at http://www.thisismwj.com/ or http://www.marvinjr.com/

[/end plug]

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I'm breaking my own rules, but I need to vent and don't feel like doing it on Xanga.

What has happened to men and their respect for women? It seems like, lately, all I am encountering are men interested in having a "jump-off". I'm sorry, I have more self-respect than that, and therefore am not entertaining this foolishness anymore. I was thinking about this as I drove to work today, and it was getting me pretty angry. What do I look like??? There's this dude I know here in Tampa. When we first met, I found him attractive and wanted to get to know more about him. Many other women did too. He expressed his interest in me and wanted to take me out on a date. That date never happened, it was cancelled the day of. Everytime I see him, he asks if he can come over. I've told him multiple times - in many ways, be it jokingly or seriously - that he cannot come over until he takes me out somewhere. It seems that this goes in one ear and right out of the other, because next time I see him, same thing. He makes comments about how, because I have my puppy, I never invite him over. Stuff like that. Honestly. I'm not an idiot. If you don't think I'm good enough to spend $20 on over dinner, or go to a movie, then why in the sam hell would I invite you over to my house to invade my private spaces? NO SIR. Show me a man who wants to know me for me and takes the time and effort to do so, and I'll show him where I live.

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I'm so happy - the humidity in Tampa has dropped significantly. Time to break out the flat iron!

The Communication Gap

From the day I started blogging in 2003, I've written countless posts about my inadequacy with the telephone. I've discussed how I'm an overall poor "phone friend" - to which, my friends will grant a resounding "aaaaaamen!". I've talked about how, after being on the phone at work ALL day long, I rarely feel up to holding a conversation once I leave the office. I've mentioned how, when I get a phone call, I stop everything I'm doing, plop on the couch, and yap away. This doesn't mean I can't hold a decent conversation, because I can. It means that I rarely take the initiative to pick up the phone and call folk. Suddenly, last week while IM'ing my mother on Gmail chat, it all clicked.

I inherited this craptastic behavior from my family. It's genetic.

How did I come to this fantastic conclusion? My mom and I were IM'ing, first of all. During our electronic conversation, she was sharing with me that my grandmother was here from PR, staying with my great aunt and uncle in Sarasota. And my aunt was fussin' because, in the year I've lived in Florida, I haven't seen them once. My mom sent me all of their contact numbers, and gave them mine. Sadly, I already had my uncle's number programmed into my phone. Oops. Then we discussed my other uncle, who lives 15 minutes from me in another part of Tampa. I needed to connect with him to get to the program in Deltona this past Saturday. I hadn't seen my uncle since March. Not for a lack of trying...he just doesn't answer his phone. I'll call when I'm in the area, or on a slow Sunday afternoon when I know they're not doing anything, and I'll get his voice mail. I talked about him for this too, when they tried to get on me for not coming around more often.

Next, there's my brother. He lives in Los Angeles, so the time difference already makes communication difficult. When I was up north for Labor Day, various people asked me how he was doing. I couldn't really tell them, as we hadn't spoken in two months. I gave a generic "oh he's good, playing music on the regular!" (this I know to be true, thanks to MySpace). When we finally connected a few weeks back, he began to tell me how my father "got on him" about not calling more. *silence on the phone*

Then, there's my nephew. He turned 5 on Saturday. I called his mother that day to talk to him. I hadn't spoken to either one of them since January...there's another story behind all of that, but it doesn't make the situation any less pathetic.

I could go on and on with other embarrassing examples of piss-poor communication between my family members and me, like the infrequent phone calls while I was away at college. It's funny, because when my stepmother entered the picture and used to call me randomly to "check on me", I found it quite odd, i.e."Why is she callin' so much?" It's just not part of my family culture.

To me, this behavior is normal. Typing it out for others to read, I suddenly feel a twinge of embarrassment. I know others whose families are quite close and talk often. That's just not us, not either side. It's like, "see ya when I see ya". It's fostered a great deal of independence in me, not being coddled all of the time by my parents and other relatives, but it's turned me into a terrible "phone friend".

Of course, all of this goes out of the door when I'm dating someone. I expects my phone calls, nucka. (lol)

So the next time anyone is annoyed with me for being noncommunicative or not calling, I'm going to tell them to blame my family.

End of the Day...

Just stoppin' through to drop a few notes before heading home. My puppy gets her sutures removed tonight, and - pending that all is okay - can return to her normal life of morning walks, outside potty breaks and playing with other dogs. The poor thing has been on house arrest since the 12th.

I had a very busy weekend with the Puerto Rican faction of my family. Good times were had by all. I did a thorough recap over on my other blog, so there's no need to get repetitive here. I mentioned in that blog that I am now in "homeowner" mode. I got bit by that bug pretty badly back in 2007, but at that time I knew I wasn't staying in Cleveland, which is where I was living at the time. I researched and researched, learning what all I need to do in order to become a homeowner when I'm thirty years old. The move to Florida sorta halted all of that, financially -- I took a nice chunk out of my meager savings to move - and I REALLY liked my apartment. So I wasn't thinking about buying a home at that time..I knew I would eventually, but I was comfortable. But now, I'm over the apartment. I want more. More space for company, tile or hardwood floors (carpet in Florida is completely useless...it gets filthy), a little backyard or nearby dog park for Cha Cha, just my own hookup. I'll probably aim for a townhome, as I'm not a fan of yardwork. I've already asked my friend for contacts for mortgage brokers -- she's a real estate agent, as is my aunt's friend. I'm ready.

My amusement park jones has also resurfaced. We rode back and forth through Orlando four times over the weekend, and I subliminally drooled every time we passed Universal Studios. My "park pal" has found a great guy, which is great...but I anticipate the relationship drastically reducing our spontaneous park trips. There's talk of going up there in October for Halloween Horror Nights..we'll see.

All that talk about Kanye's new single, "Love Lockdown"...I clowned him for performing it on the VMAs...but doggoneit if the song ain't catchy. I downloaded that joint on Saturday.

Here's something kinda funny: when I was younger, I didn't think that there were any Puerto Ricans who could sing. I'd see black folks singing all of the time, but I never saw Puerto Ricans on TV or in my daily life who could really sang. No one in my family could hold a note, and like I said, television presence - or at least, that I was exposed to - didn't really help to disprove my stereotype. Imagine my surprise when I discovered Marc Anthony and many of the other PR artists/entertainers who can blow. And this past weekend, I was at a 50th anniversary celebration that featured a choir full of older Puerto Ricans from the couple's old church. And they sounded GOOD!! As a child, that might have just made my brain explode.

I should've probably waited to write a post with more substance, but I wanted to stick something in here before I go home. Who knows what the evening holds, after all?