Everyday-there-is-a-story-to-tell

I'm back??

2011-05-16T02:53:00.001-04:00

Hello, Blogworld!

I have been MIA for quite some time... I'm hoping I can keep at this better than I did before!

Happy New Year and Happy Birthday

2007-01-05T17:15:00.000-05:00

Because I was soooo wasted and now that I'm fully recovered from my liver transplant (lol, drinker's know what I mean), I can now say "HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!" I had a great time this new year's. My friends and I threw an 80's party, so it was pretty cool to see what everyone came up with for their outfits. We were definitely 80's yall! We got wasted and took pics and ate and drank and played Drunk Uno, our absolute fave. My baby literally had to take care of me because I was too far gone to drive Of course, my drunkenness was moreso due to me tired than having too much to drink. I have also been working OT at work (yesterday made 10 consecutive days at the job), and on Saturday night, I had a bowling birthday party, which was a whole lotta fun also. Throw in the big jam on Thursday night, and now you can see that yours truly has had quite the busy calendar.

Yesterday was mine and Brownboy's birthday. We have officially made 25 and 24 months. I feel sooo old. I was so tired, so Mr. Smith and I shared a pizza, margaritas, and watched the new episode of Ugly Betty and got ready for next week's all-new Grey's Anatomy. So now that I'm off this weekend, let the celebration begin.

In other big news, I am the regular season league champion of the Gridiron Crunch Fantasy Football League!!!!!!!!!! And of course I rode Peyton Manning all the way to the finish line! Now let's hope he can get me that Super Bowl I need for him to win.

I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, New Year's, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hannukah, Ramidan, and errthing else people celebrate nowadays.

SHOPPER'S BEWARE!!!

2006-12-21T18:45:00.000-05:00

I have set a shopping record!!!! I have done my Christmas shopping in four hours flat!!!!!! How amazing is that! But it's rough out there so shoppers, BEWARE!!! I have a list of rules to help you avoid a major shopping crisis...

BEWARE of the spray girls at the counter. Some of that stuff really smells!

BEWARE of buying the gifts you want to believe are cute but they are really ugly! And deep down you know they are, so just don't buy them!!!

BEWARE of grown men (on the DL) walking with their kids giving you the "look". Not cute fellas, not cute at all!!!

BEWARE of the cute salesman having conversation with you just to get you to stick around longer in hopes you will see something that catches your eye (other then the cute salesman, lol!!!)

BEWARE of trying to force a gift that you don't even like. Remember, when all else fails, buy a nice watch!!!

BEWARE , SHOP SMART, and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

Ok, so I'm a bum!!!

2006-12-18T23:44:00.000-05:00

Greetings everyone!!!!

I guess I've been MIA for quite sometime now. Let me start off by saying that I have been super busy adjusting to work, being a good man to my man, and getting some sleep in between. That's my story and I'm stickin to it.

All is well with me. Work isn't as hectic as it was in the Haba, but the drama is far juicier, lol!!!! I could get into details but we don't have all night, do we??? Let's just say that like my blog title, EVERYDAY THERE IS A STORY TO TELL!!! lol. I am hoping for a promotion and raise because I met my 90 days (and already looking ahead, right!) so I think I'm more than ready. Besides, those folks are trying my few good nerves and I refuse to let them bring me down, lol!!! I'll keep you guys posted.

X-mas is coming and yours truly has not watched It's A Wonderful Life (The greatest movie eva!!!!) and I better soon or it will NOT be a Merry Christmas for this man, believe me, lol!!!! That's cool though, I'm going to get it out of storage this week. I already have my baby's gifts so he's squared away. I can't tell yall what it is but he's gonna love it!!! Now for these other people in my life...

Last week, I had the good fortune to attend the Bears-Rams game in St. Louis. Oh how drunk I was!!!! I was drunk from Sunday through Tuesday, lol!!! And it was a great game too. Yes guys, I am rooting for the Bears now (don't worry, my Colts will still beat them in the Super Bowl!!!!)

And for some comic relief, I flushed my phone down the toilet at work last week. I found it sitting at the bottom of the toilet ten minutes after I "lost" it. I still don't know what's worse, the fact that I flushed it or the fact that I had to reach in to get it out after I did a #2, lol!!!

My friends and I are throwing an 80's New Year's Party!!!! How cool is that right!!! My outfit is tooo rad, lol!!!!! I'm also starting the birthday festivities a lil early this year. Mr. Smith is throwing me a bowling birthday party on Dec. 30. Apparently the real surprise isn't until my actual birthday so I wonder what could top that!

Happy Weekend!!!

2006-10-16T15:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Arry!!!

Happy Birthday Sammy!!!

So Saturday was my 5 year old niece's birthday party and it was quite the Social Event of the Year. My sister's place was filled with some of her friends, our family members and their kids. And of course at any BLACK function, there's that one family member that acts a damn fool and that theory truly applied here. My sister's father was a drunken buffoon on Saturday yall!!!! It was soooo embarassing. He was dancing and snapping his fingers and rambling on and on about nothing.

I thought he was going to step on a kid or something. Crazy ass, lol! Thankfully he left before he could.

My niece and one of my best friends share the same birthday 10/15 so happy birthday to him also although him and his girl got into it. Again.

And what's up with Flav??? He picked Deelishis and New York home. Again. Gotta feel sorry for Ms. Tiffany. She's been embarassed on TV. Again. Then again, it was super funny. Again.

Return to the Blog

2006-10-04T13:23:00.001-04:00

Bloggers Unite!!!!

So after a long hiatus, yours truly is back on the blogging scene! I have been sooooooooooooooooo busy over the last month woth my new gig, my new living arrangement, blah blah blah. But truly though I have been missing my blog therapy and reading up on what's good with the people of Bloggerland. So let me give you my update:

1. Work is going well. My position keeps me extremely busy and I have been working 6 days a week. Thursdays have been my day off (except for Today), but thats cool, I'm a trooper!!! I have met some new and interesting people, and I have also kept in touch with my staff from the Haba with a few phone calls here and there. I miss those guys a lot!

2. Mr. Smith and I are better than ever!!! We are soo happy being together. Even though we both work crazy hours, we end up in the same bed at the end of EVERY night. We are gearing up to move into the city sometime next year. I have even cooked him another meal. What can I say, I'm evolving! I am so the Stepford Husband!!!

3. Grey's Anatomy Season 3 is so exciting to watch. I stayed up and watched the entire 2nd Season in 2 days to catch up and ready myself for Season 3 I'm working on getting him hooked since I've gotten him hooked on Nip/Tuck, who is also having it's best season ever (Sanaa looks beautiful in every episode and Rosie O'Donnell was absolutely hilarious last night!) The Amazing Race is pretty good this year also. The one thing that gets on my nerves is that they keep eliminating people so early on in the race!

4. I got a freakin ticket at the Metra station the other day because I paid for the wrong parking space. I thought the sign said #277, not 276. I'ma talk to someone about this. Trust me, lol!

Anyways, as you can see, I'm enjoying my new life. But I will definitely make more time to blog. So until next time, folks!!!

Bye Bye Haba

2006-09-01T00:19:00.000-04:00

So tonight is my last night in the Haba, and I am very emotional right now. I'm very very excited about the new opportunity that lies ahead for me. I can't wait to get started at my new job next week. I'm also overwhelmed because the Lord truly heard my prayers and he answered them. I now have everything I've been wanting for the longest time: a good job in downtown Chicago, a good man who loves me and will stand by me, friends who always have my back, family who loves me and are very proud of my accomplishments, a strong sense of self, and of course, the Lord himself. I am truly blessed.

I finally shed some tears tonight as I was writing words of encouragement and thanks on the Thank You card I purchased for the staff. I've never had a "staff" working under me before, and I'm fortunate to have been able to have a group of people who were comfortable around me, respectful, worked hard (most of them), and kept me in stitches. They are some of the best people I'll ever meet and I wish for nothing but the best for all of them.

I'm happy that my baby and I will FINALLY get to start our life together completely. It makes my heart jump just knowing that he will be the last one I see when I go to bed and the first one I see when I wake up everyday from now on. I love him so much.

I'm ecstatic that _____ Hotel has taken quite an interest in me and will be allowing me to work in such a busy and popular establishment. This will lead to many new opportunities and open doors I can't even begin to imagine.

I'm gonna miss my barber here also. He kept a brotha lookin GOOD!!! I wish he could make house calls to Chicago, lol! I am also gonna miss Lark's and some of the best BBQ I ever had. And for Chinese, of course I'm gonna miss Good Fortune. That's place got that fiya on Chinese food yall!!! And I'm gonna miss Celebration Cinema and that Ranch powder I always put on my popcorn there. I have got to find some of that stuff!!!

Farewell Haba....The memories will last a lifetime. I have truly learned a great deal about life and myself from being here the past year. Thank you for everything.

Out with the old, in with the new

2006-08-28T19:47:00.000-04:00

So, my replacement got in town last night. We had a late dinner and I gave her the lowdown on everything she needed to know about the hotel, the staff, the Haba, our boss, our colleagues, etc. One of her major concerns was where to get her hair and nails done, as well as the club scene, which kinda concerened me. I'm like, "Shouldn't she be asking me more about the staff? Why isn't she asking me more questions about the property?" Maybe I'm sounding like an overprotective parent whose afraid to leave their children alone with the new nanny.

I formally introduced her to the staff this morning. After she left at the end of the day, the staff asked me what did I think of her. I was as honest as I could be. They didn't seem to impressed with her. They didn't hit it off with her like they did me. They compared us and expressed how comfortable they were around me instantaneously, which truly touched me. I guess errbody don't do like I do!!! Lol. They made me promise that I would call and check on them after I'm gone.

Anyways, I hope she doesn't rub my kids the wrong way. I'd hate to have to install surveillance camera inside the lobby clock just to make sure she isn't meaning them any harm. They have truly taken care of me and have been my family for the past year and I just want for them to be OK once I'm gone. So ol' girl betta have her stuff together because I will be watching!

Meet the Parents (Well, the grandmother anyway)

2006-08-26T18:39:00.000-04:00

So yesterday was my grandmother's 80th birthday and my baby and I took her out to dinner. She'd never met him before, so I was excited to FINALLY introduce Mr. Smith to her. (Yes she knows about me!) As of late, she has really taken an interest in my personal life. This entire meeting process has been a little weird for me. Growing up in my household, we never really talked about our personal lives, except to only our friends, but never to an adult family member. That would have been considered blasphemy!!!

Well over the past few weeks, she has been quite interested in the goings on of my love life. It all started when I told her I was taking the trip to San Francisco. "Oh, with who?" she asked. I'm like, "A friend." Ever since then she has been bombarding me with questions, digging for more dirt. "Are you dating a guy or a girl?", "Are you happy?, "What does he do?", "Is he a good guy?" Watch out Diane and Barbara, yall got some new competition on your hands!!! And this old lady knows how to get to the hard-hitting questions!

One day she pointed out the fact that our family has never discussed out love life with each other (my sister and I do, but after her, that's IT!!!). She then went on to ask me about Mr. Smith (how weird) and almost made me feel bad when she commented on how I never introduce her to anyone I'm dating. I knew then that it was time I combine my family life and love life. I was a bit nervous, but I figured everything would go well.

The evening was very pleasant and my grandmother really seemed to enjoy herself and our company, which definitely works for me. She and my baby got along very well. They conversed and shared stories and she even remembered his name, which is always a good sign. She told him to stop by sometime and invited him to dinner. I'm sure he even got her seal of approval! I'm fine with that, because as long as she knows and sees that I'm happy, then she'll be content.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR!!!

P.S. Today, I had breakfast with my baby and his family. That was also very nice. It's nice to be included in your lover's family meetings and gatherings, isn't it??? Thanks for inviting me baby, it meant a lot!

Happy Birthday Baby!!!

2006-08-21T23:54:00.000-04:00

So, Sunday was my baby's Birthday, and yours truly did everything he could to make sure the birthday boy enjoyed himself. On Friday night, we kicked off the weekend with Tequila shots and Margaritas. Then we ate dinner at Payton's with one of his oldest friends. We then went back home and had more drinks. On Saturday, a couple of friends came by and we had more drinks, food, and a birthday cake. He never really gets one, so he was excited when I told him he was getting just that.

He enjoyed his gifts also. I wanted to take him to see Wicked and to dinner afterwards but due to a mix-up (Thanks alot Ticketmaster!), I had to think of something else. So, I wrote him an essay. Yes, an essay. A couple of weeks ago, we were talking about college and I was telling him how I received my Associates Degree in English (with honors thank you very much, lol!). I always received high praise on my papers so he suggested that I write him a paper. So, I wrote him a heartfelt, 12 page masterpiece and he loved it!!!

I also got him Noah's Arc Season One on DVD and I must say that the show is cute. I had never seen an episode prior to this month, so it's nice we can watch the show together now.

After everyone left Sunday night, he cut both of our heads, we showered, curled up on the couch, ordered Chinese and watched a movie, which is our Sunday evening ritual. Cute huh?

Happy Birthday Mr. Smith!!!

I love you very, very much!!!

In other news:

I gave my boss my official two week's notice on Friday. She didn't seem too surprised. My official starting last day is Sept 1st and I start at the new gig on the 5th.

I filled out paperwork, met some future co-workers, and took my ID picture (very cute I must say) on Friday. I'm going to look very cute in my new job clothes too.

I told the staff today I was resigning and there were some teary-eyed episodes, but they gave me their blessing. I'm really going to miss them (some, not all!)

Bob the Builder came back to work today only to tell me that now he's in Physical Therapy and will try to come back to work on Monday. I thought about telling him I was leaving next Friday, but then I thought he may come back to work tomorrow if he knew that, lol!

I LOVE Chrisina Aguilera's new CD! She's so talented!!!

The White Sox lost (Damn them!)

The Bears won (Damn them!)

The Cubs did something (Who cares, lol!)

And the cow jumped over the moon.

Back in Effect

2006-08-13T23:49:00.000-04:00

Well after a few busy weeks, I'm back yall!!!!!!!!

So, first let me start by saying that this has been quite the busy month. I have been away at meetings, getting the hotel ready for an audit (that we eventually failed. I won't get into details, I'm still a lil bummed about it!)

But here's the good news: I'm leaving the haba! After a Three day, courtship, I have gotten a new job a very, very, very big Chicago hotel, so I'm comin home folks!!!! I just have to pass my drug test. (That damn crack, that stuff is whack and cheap!!! Just kidding, The only drug I partake in is Pepsi, lol). I'm so happy!!!!!

I haven't put in my 2 weeks in yet, because the official offer hasn't been made (It's a newly created position, so they have to post it for a few days). I should be handing it in by week's end though. My staff will be devastated. I hope they don't think I'm abandoning them. I'ma cry when I tell them because everyone knows that I'm such a crybaby. (I've always been the emotional one in the group!!!) I'ma definitely miss many of them, as well as some of my peers (Some, not all, LOL!)

Of course, my baby is all smiles about me coming home. We will be living together. We're discussing moving back to the city. He's already volunteered his services of dropping me off and picking me up from the Metra everyday.

It's on folks!!! Bust out the forties!!!! Cuz I'm comin home!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-07-30T23:57:00.000-04:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TARA AND GREG!!!!!

(Tara is my BFF Forever)

Red Light Special

2006-07-30T22:54:00.000-04:00

So the other day, I was sitting at a stop light in the Haba, and this older white guy pulled up next to me, nothing wrong with that. But you know how you feel someone staring at you? Well, I turned and looked, and he was doing just that. It didn't bother me at first, because I'm used to it (lol, I'm a cutie!!!). So I turned back to check the light (still red!) Well, I felt those eyes on me yet again. This time when I turned around, I felt weird because the guy had this weird look in his eyes, nodding at me. I'm sitting there like "What's up with dude???" So I turned and looked again, and to my dismay, he was still staring, nodding, and began to play with his nipples (he didn't have on a shirt!!!!)

Anyways, I'm like WTF! First of all, this is the longest red light in creation. Second of all , this perv is trying to get me. As soon as that light turned green, I punched it yall!!! Only in the haba folks!

Well as fate would have it, Mr. Nasty Chest and the Misses tried to get a room at the hotel last night. When he saw me, he turned Casper white yall. It was sooooo funny! He was trying to find the words to say and everything. Wifey had to speak for him. I guess it's a good thing I'm a Christian, huh?

Lesson learned: Be careful who you try to pick up, you never know when they'll get the opportunity to blow your cover! Class dismissed, lol.

WHERE'S LOLABRIGADA

2006-07-26T04:09:00.000-04:00

So my baby and I were making tacos on Sunday and he laughed at me because I didn't know I wasn't supposed to cut the head of lettuce with the big knife. Then he laughed at me because I didn't know how to cut the lettuce or the tomatoes. I'm trying to learn this new concept that millions of other people in the world apparently already know of: cooking.

I have always been what I like to call kitchen-deficient. I don't even own pots and pans. I believe that the microwave IS the greatest invention EVER!!! I remember being laughed out of the kitchen because I didn't know what a tbsp. of salt was (I thought it was 2 pounds). And because my minute rice took 20. And because I could't peel a potato. And because I didn't know you had to thaw meat before cooking. And I didn't know that just becasue I saw people put grease in a coffee can that you can't use coffee to cook. (let's just say that I thought that's where the grease came from, lol!)

I won't say that I hate cooking, I just don't have a passion or desire or liking or taste for it. Nor do I need or want or feel the need to cook. My thing is that if all my friends and family can cook (And they ALL can), then I'll never go hungry. (And I never have, lol!) I remember telling my grandmother as a kid that I didn't need to cook because I was gonna be rich and get a maid to do all of that for me! As you can see, even as a mere lad, I had delusions of grandeur. WHERE'S LOLABRIGADA!!!!!

I DID cook one meal in my lifetime. Last January, in order to satisfy my New Year's resolution (I did it in January to get it over with!), I made Chicken Cacciatore with white rice. I got the recipe from my BFF. When I told everyone I was doing it, everyone laughed and noone belived me!!! How rude, right??? Only one person volunteered to be my guinea pig: my baby, Mr. Smith (this was when we dated the first time). I slaved and slaved for what seemed like hours grocery shopping and cooking this meal. And yall know what? It was slammin!!!!! He ate 2 servings and he didn't die! I took some to my BFF for the final test and she gave me "... an F! For F***in Fantastic!!!" It was a proud moment in my life, but definitely something I wasn't looking forward to doing ever again.

I can really think of a thousand other things to do rather than cook. I can sleep, watch football, work, shop, watch a movie, read a book, take a shower, have sex, jump off a building, scratch my eyes out, rob a bank, you know, fun stuff! But for the sake of love I guess I need to study up on this Rachel Ray chick or the frugal gourmet. Cuz my baby likes it when I cook with him, so I guess I better adapt right? (I do have a secret: I can make potato salad from scratch. But dont tell NOOOObody, lol!)

And for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the Academy Award goes to...

2006-07-16T02:02:00.000-04:00

Bob the Builder for his performance as an elderly unsuspecting maintenance man being victimized by a tyrannical drunken boss!!!

So I FINALLY had a meeting with my maintenance man about all of the SHIT he has been spreading about me the other day. It was one for the ages folks! Let me give yall a quick recap of how I got to this point...

Bob the Builder has been going around flapping his dentures at anyone who'll listen for months now about how I'm a no-good, lazy black ass manager who sleeps all day and never around when I'm supposed to. I'm also trying to make him look bad by purposely not ordering the supplies he needs to do his job. Oh yeah, and I'm the worst manager ever and that all I do is get drunk instead of my doing my job! I have been trying to be the bigger person because I haven't heard any of this directly, only hearsay. But when he went to another property to help out a few weeks back, he started up again and this time his comments got all the way to my boss. When I showed up for my District meeting a couple weeks ago, several GM's as well as my boss confronted me about the comments from Bob. So yall know I was pissed, embarrassed, and all that good stuff, right???

Just so yall know, Bob is a 70 year old white man from West Virginia. He has tried to pick up housekeepers and has dallied with some of the local, shall we call them, independent women of the streets. We all think he has an issue taking instruction from me because I'm a 26 yr old Black man. He is full of crap and everyone knows it. He has driven every manager that he's worked with at this hotel crazy and he's about this close to retirement.

Well the other day, when he accused me of being the lazy drunk from hell, I had reached my boiling point. My immediate reaction was that my feelings were hurt. I may be the boss, but I'm still human. I wanted to cry (I'm a sensitive soul, lol!), but my pride wouldn't let me. So in an order to bury this BS once and for all, I called up another GM to sit in on the meeting with me. That's when we watched one of the most memorable performances in Academy Award History live and in person.

As I discussed with Bob the reason for the meeting, he immediately took the defense. He went on and on about how has never said any negative things about me and that he has only made remarks/opinions because he's an opinionated person. We shouldn't take offense to them. Then he talked about how he's always been a team player and never talks about anyone behind his back. (OMG!!!!!!) When he was a plant manager, he fired anyone who took part in discrediting him or his team. Good advice, huh? He also spoke of how he's always respected me as a manager and that he expects the same respect from me! I was so pissed at this point, the other GM had to step in and continue the meeting, telling Bob basically that any issues, concerns have to go through me and not around me and over me (Keep family business in house!!!!). At the end of the movie, err, I mean meeting, he said the words that sealed his Oscar win:
"I'm just shocked and upset about this meeting. I don't know what to say about all this right now! May I please leave?" and exited the room with all of the dramatic flair Merryl Streep used to get into her car in "The Devil Wears Prada" (Excellent movie bytheway. All he was missing was the sunglasses).
The GM and I looked at each other and all we could do was ask what the hell just happened? He was so full of it yall, I was almost convinced!!!

Later, I was told that he had tears in his eyes. Our question was whether his feelings were really hurt or was his blood pressure just up so high after our meeting and he was so mad a being called out? Who knows right? Then he called off yesterday and announced he was going to start his vacation early. I kinda hope he decides to retire while on vacation. I should only be so lucky.

PS... Stay tuned, because coming up next, the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a workplace setting!!!

The San Francisco treat

2006-07-12T01:10:00.000-04:00

So my baby and I had a FANTABULOUS time in San Francisco!!!!! The city is so unbelievable on sooo many levels. Everyone there was so friendly and easy to get along with and helpful, I was blown away. There was also so much to do. We rode the trolleys, did a tour of the Ocean and Alcatraz, visited museums, shopped, bought $140 worth of Ghiradelli's Chocolate, went through Chinatownate soooo much Chinese food (mine and his absolute fave) Did you know that fried rice doesn't have to be brown??? Yep, it was fried white rice out there. And it tasted it way better! We also drank ourselves into rehab, lol!!!!!

We took many pictures too. They were very cute. We painted that town red! So what was the coolest thing to happen to us? On Friday, we were at this bar in Chinatown and the bartender was playing this game with the patrons. You put the dice in a cup and slam the cup on the table. Then you call out how many dice of a certain number you think are showing from all the players. It was really cool. The person who loses all of their dice first has to buy the round of drinks for all the players. What was soooo cool about the game was that later that night, they were playing the same game in Pirates of the Caribbean:Dead Man's Chest. I was shocked! I was like "Oooh I know that game!!!"

Overall, we had a great time in a great city. I have to pick the city for vacation next year, so I'm taking suggestions....

Packing light: How's that for a concept?

2006-07-03T21:43:00.000-04:00

So I have decided to pack for my trip TODAY rather than tomorrow because I won't have time. I told my baby I would get a head start on it and he only wants us to have carry-ons so he left me with these parting words: "Pack light." I'm sorry, I don't speak that language, lol!!! Being that I am perhaps the world's worst packer, this is an impossible task. The way I pack, you'd think I was leaving the planet and never returning. Why do I pack so much? Because like my grandmother always says, "You never know."

What if it rains? What if it snows? (I know it's July but I'm from Chicago, so ANYTHING is possible, lol!) What if it's too hot? What if it's too cold? And the big one that gets me everytime, WHAT IF I SPILL SOMETHING???

Fortunately, I looked on Yahoo Weather today to check out the temps. Much to my surprise and/or dismay, The highest it'll be in Frisco this week is 63. Nice but I wont get to wear my shorts. Oh well, jeans it is.

Pack light? Hmm, what does that mean? I went all over the Haba today trying to find a store with some decent carry-on luggage. I finally ended up at TJ Maxx and saw some nice bags. I was thinking duffel bag, but what do I know, right? So I asked this lady if she could help me find a decent carry-on. She picked out some nice stuff, being that she called herself an avid flyer. So we decided on a cute brown carry-on suitcase for $39.99 (I got the max for the minimum, minimum price! Yall remember the commercial, LOL!)

When I started packing, I pretty much knew that this was going to be a headache. Through strategic folding and rolling, I did manage to pack 6 outfits and two pair of shoes. Now for those who know me, deciding on just three pair of shoes (including the ones I'm wearing) isn't an ordinary feat. I have a big shoe and watch fetish, so the outfits I packed had to match my shoes and my watches. I hope I didn't forget anything. I'm also going to update my IPOD tonight to save more space.

Mr. Smith better be glad I love him, cuz packing light is for the birds and was created by the DEVIL, lol

Questions???

2006-07-02T23:51:00.000-04:00

So, after the busiest week ever (6 days, 9 desk/regular shifts, 1 in hskp, 1 in laundry, 2 100% occupancy nights, 20 hours of interviews, 20 hrs of sleep), I have a few questions I need some serious answers to:

Why do people wear T-shirts and jeans to a job interview?
Why do people wear FLIP FLOPS WITH FLOWERS ON THEM to a job interview?
Why do people who were sentenced for anger management, assault and battery, and dog sodomization try to interview for jobs in customer service?
Why do people only want to work 8a-1p?
Why do people think that just because they request a day off, their entitled to it and take it even after the request was denied?
Why do people think that just because they have a headache on a beautiful Saturday afternoon that they can't come to work?
Why is it always spouse 2 actin a damn fool when you tell spouse 1 that they can't do something?
Why do people call you a f$&*^! liar and then when you confront them, they act like they don't know what you're talking about?
Why do people claim they fixed something when they know good and damn well they didn't?
Why do people think $49.99 a night pays for a jacuzzi suite and room service?
Why are people stupid?
Why did the chicken cross the road?
Why ask why?

Its the questions, the questions...

Back to the old grind

2006-06-30T00:55:00.000-04:00

So, I'm back from Minnesota of course!!! I had a great time but the stress from my job is really getting to me and I can prove it: I went to the Mall of America on Saturday with a loaded credit card and checkbook, and I DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING!!!!! (Sad, but true) The horror of it all, I know! I'm so ashamed,I don't know what's wrong with me. I'll never show my face in public again, lol!!!Everyone, including my baby had to ask me was I ok. I'm still trippin yall, lol!.

Anyways, my baby and I really enjoyed ourselves: We both needed weekend getaways from our jobs. I know we're going to San Francisco next week and I can't wait, but I needed to not be in either Chicago or Michigan last weekend. It was a 6 1/2 -7 hour drive, but we really enjoyed each other's company. We talked all the way there and back, held hands, sang, it was really nice. I bought him the 2006 Rand McNally Road Atlas to look through: he's big on road maps and trying to find his way without my favorite map: Mapquest. He was soooo excited yall, like a big school kid! He's so cute when he's excited!

Well, according to his calculations, we made it there and back in a reasonable time. We would have arrived back in the Chi sooner on Sunday, but ran into a bad rainstorm in Wisconsin, on my leg of the drive of course! We had dinner with Brownboy and his baby at my favorite restaurant, FLAT TOP GRILL. A good time was had by all.

After spending Monday at another working meeting in Arlington Heights, I returned to the Haba Tuesday to one bombshell after the next. You know it's bad when you can't leave your job without the place falling apart. I guess everything's back to normal. I have a rigorous schedule over the next week leading up to San Francisco with interviews, desk shifts, as well as my own work and dealing with my nemesis, the pain in my side, the crick in my neck, the ache in my head (you get the picture,lol) Bob the Builder (my Maintenance Man). Yep, we are at war folks, and I will not lose! Victory shall be MINE!!!Lol, dramatic right?

Let's just say I can't wait until this vacation next week. I refuse to have another Dallas/Florida/Bahamas debacle.

WHAT THE F***!!!

2006-06-20T04:55:00.000-04:00

So, my boss has called for a District Meeting this upcoming Thursday. ARRRRR!!! She has no idea the turmoil and the headache that she has just caused me. Here's the breakdown:

I had a housekeeper quit on Saturday, which pissed me off because I had the opportunity to sell out 100% of my rooms, which is a rarity in the Haba, but I do a pretty good job in filling the place. I was already scheduled to work Night Audit (11p-7a) on Saturday night, causing me to have to leave one of my BFF's Baby Shower early, which sucked because all 4 of the BFF's haven't been in the same room in Lord knows when. I got back to the Haba at around midnight, so I was late. I got off at around 7:30, went to bed, came back in to work second shift (3p-11p) on Sunday. My laundry lady couldn't come in due to her son badly hurting his leg on the trampoline (Yes, a trampoline, folks!!!) So, yours truly had to work overnight Sunday, after getting off at 11, to do laundry, and Lord knows I drop my clothes off at the cleaners FAITHFULLY to avoid such a task! After damn near 8 hrs. of washing, separating, drying, folding, stocking, my back and feet were hurting yall. BAD! So, I passed out at around 8:00 Monday morning.

I got up at around 2 to make the Bank Deposit for Sunday, shit, shaved, and showered to go back to work at 4 (let's not forget I still have all my managerial functions to do!) So, I go in, check my email, and see the email for the meeting and I'm like "WTF!!!" (You know what WTF means, so I won't say it, lol) I forgot to mention that I have a mandatory training class for my staff on Thursday. Well, I did, not anymore of course! Anyways, this means that the class was
cancelled. I then get a phone call from the person who is teaching the class, asking me if I can send my desk staff to Kalamazoo on Tuesday (tomorrow) or Wednesday (the next day) to attend the class at either of those properties. My housekeeper's and Maintenance class will be rescheduled at a later date, she says.

Once again, I'm like "WTF!!!" So after a drastic change in the schedule, I have come to the conclusion that neither sleep nor a weekday life is in the cards for me. I'm already understaffed, so this put me in a real pickle. Basically, I got stuck working desk shifts tonight (11p-7a), tomorrow (7a-3p), tomorrow night (11p-7a), and again Wednesday (3p-11p). Then I have to load up the car and drive all the way to Northbrook (burb of Chicago) for my meeting. WTF, WTF WTF!!!!

On a brighter note, my baby and I are driving to Minnesota this weekend to visit one of my closest friends and his hubby. Well, he's driving, because this Superman will be dead to the world, you hear me! Coincidentally, my sister and her boyfriend are going to Minnesota this weekend as well to visit his daughter. Funny huh? Hopefully this weekend will provide some relief. It should, because my "Gay Mom", drinks, my baby, my sister, and shopping! I'm in for a treat. If I can make it out of this disaster of a week. And the sad part is, it's only Tuesday!

The President of my Fan Club

2006-06-18T02:42:00.000-04:00

So, guess who had a job interview Friday with a very nice Chicago Hotel? Yep, yours truly! It went very well. She asked me if I had to put in a two week's notice. I'm like "I'm not sure but I think it would be appropriate." I'm so professional, yall, lol!!!

My baby was more excited about the interview than I was. Now he's ready to look for a new place so I won't have to drive into the city. He's so sweet. He was so excited about the interview, he picked out my clothes and everything! We ended up at Marshall Field's and I walked around while he went CRAZY trying to find the perfect shirt and tie. I thought it was sooo cute. So throw in a new belt and a pair of shoes, my power suit, and all of my chocolate cuteness, and I was ready yall!

I got the phone call Wednesday and my baby, Lord Bless Him, jumped, or shall I say, took over the bandwagon. He immediately wanted me to look a certain way and kinda got a bit carried away, but I didn't mind at all. I guess he thought he was being too pushy because later he apologized for being that way. He was just excited and happy at the thought of me coming HOME.

So I told him that I understood why he acted like he did and it's ok if he gets excited about things like that because that only shows how much he loves me and wants me to have everything. I love the fact that he gets excited when I have good news to share with him. I also told him it doesn't bother me when he gets pushy, which he wasn't bytheway. I let him know that the only thing that would ever bother me would be if he didn't get excited over those things. I let him know that my victories are ours to share and his are too. He thanked me and told me how much I meant to him. He's my biggest fan. I couldn't help but smile afterwards.

Call me Dr. Phil

2006-06-13T01:05:00.000-04:00

So I have been texting all day today! Thank God for unlimited text messages. One of my boys and his girlfriend got into a physical altercation yesterday. No, it wasn't him, it was HER! Yep, ol' girl straight punched my boy in the face as if he were a dude or something, breaking his glasses. So, he told her that she had to leave his apartment NOW with all her stuff. Then the apologies and tears came-a-flowin.

He called me to vent about it yesterday and throughout the night. Not only did she hit him, she accused him of cheating, which sooo isn't the case. He eventually let her come back "for the night" because it was late and he would have felt bad if something happened to her. I told him that that was mighty big of him.

Well today, I found myself counseling him and her at the same time, via text message. She pleaded her case to me while he was asking me if he should give her a second chance. I asked him what did his gut tell him because he shouldn't have to be in an abusive relationship. When you have to hit the one you "love", it's time to move on. I made her realize the seriousness of the offense that she has committed: She just hit her man in the face as if she were a man. That's worst than cheating and a huge blow to his manhood!

He then took the mindset of using her like all of her other no-good ex-boyfriends in an effort to teach her a lesson, which I talked him out of. I told him how he shouldn't carry a spiteful heart and if he did, it's best they stay apart. I explained to her that if she wants him back, some grand gesture will have to be done on her behalf. I told her that it needs to be genuine, from the heart, and out of the blue. Actions speak louder than words and if she loved him like she says she does, then she shouldn't have any problems.

I told her to pray for forgiveness, self-control, and for her relationship. I also told her to be patient because my boy won't come around so soon. I told him to pray for guidance, a forgiving heart, and to rid himself of all the anger. She thanked me for being a good friend to the both of them and she promised me she would make my friend happy. After 5 hours of couples therapy, I hope everything works out for them.

Next couple please!!!

The Perfect Tri-Fecta ( 3 shots, 3 rounds, and 3 days of Mr. Smith!!! )

2006-06-11T22:32:00.000-04:00

So my baby came up to see me this weekend, amidst all of this craziness that is my life. We had a fantastic time!!! On Friday, after I got back from the funeral, he came up. That evening we ate dinner at the Texas Corale Steakhouse. We both enjoy a nice hearty medium-done steak. Afterwards, I took him for a late night drive through the Haba and then up to my favorite getaway place up here... the Lion's Park Beach on the Lake. We then went and picked up more booze and went back to my room for more drinks and well, you know. (it had been a couple of weeks so you know IT WAS GOOD YALL!!!!) then we went to sleep. Well I know I did, lol!

On Saturday we woke up for round 2. Afterwards, I took him to breakfast and back around town. Our outing was cut short because yours truly had to work 3-11. I was expecting to get off at 9 so that I could take him to dinter. (Thanks Madea for the new word!) Of course, my relief never showed, even when I drove to his house to pick him up to come in. As a matter of fact, he never even showed up for HIS shift at 11. Luckily my auditor came in at 10:45 (she was training him for audit). Note to self: Fire him! So I jetted to my room to have a drink with my baby, who was dressed and ready to go. He waited ever so patiently for me to get off from work. He was very handsome too, yall.

We did a few Manhattan shots and went to Spinnaker's for dinner. After that, we went back to the lake and sat on the beach on a blanket and looked out on the waves. Then, we did something I NEVER do. We took our shoes off and put them in the water. It was sooo cold, and it was so funny seeing me step outside of my box. He's so country, I must really love him to do something like that. It was the best date I've ever had!!!

Today, we got up and had Round 3. Lol, yep 3 rounds for me folks, so now I'm good until I see him this weekend! Then we went shopping for summer gear and swim trunks. We're going to San Francisco July 5-8 and he's determined to teach me how to swim. We also picked up groceries for the both of us. We ate lunch in my room and watched Glory Road. Very inspiring movie. After the movie, we said our goodbyes and he made his 2 and 1/2 hour trek back to the burbs if Chicago. I was so sad afterwards. Thank you baby for a magical and romantic weekend!

We talked about so much this weekend, from movies, current events, and us. I told him how loving him is truly my heart's joy and that I am at the happiest point in my life because I truly have everything I need. I genuinely hope and pray that everyone can know and feel what I feel at some point in their life!

2006-06-11T22:02:00.000-04:00

R.I.P.

Brandon Cortez Ussery Jr.

Born/Died June 1, 2006

Brandon, you were loved by everyone before you even came into the world. I'm sorry that you departed this world before you were able to know exactly how much.

Good help is so hard to find! (But thank you anyway, Lord!)

2006-06-09T00:30:00.000-04:00

So my new night auditor quit on me the other night (five days into his employment and two and a half hours into his shift) all because some guest yelled at him! Yes I'm serious!!! When I tried to reason with him, he tells me that he can't work here because he has anger management issues and has a short people complex. He further explained by saying that he can't deal with short people yelling at him and he wanted to hem the guest up against a wall. I was pissed yall.

First of all, this is customer service. If he knew he had these issues, he shouldn't have applied, wasting my time and his! Second of all, he basically lied during his interview, when I asked him SPECIFICALLY how would he handle an upset guest that yelled at him and he responded with the customary take care of the guest, customer is always right mumbo jumbo! Third of all, why didn't I pick up on this during the interview. I'm usually a good judge of people, so did I miss something here???

I was so mad, I couldn't sleep a wink the rest of the night. I ended up going to the gym to work out (my new hobby, by the way) at 5 am. It helps me relieve my stress and allows me to just focus on me. When I got back to my room, I got an early morning call from a Housekeeper trying to leave work early or not come in at all. I lost it right there. I had never hung up on an employee, but I did that day, only after I told her it's her responsibility to find her own replacement for the day or she had better show up for work ON TIME!

I called my baby afterwards for some much needed words of encouragement, which he delivered. He told me that I shouldn't let things stress me out like that because I have to make myself happy and stay positive. He also added that I've had a postive impact on my staff and not to let that go to waste. He also reminded me to thank the Lord for ALL of my blessings and that soon they all will be answered. I love that man so much, he always knows how to make me feel better! So like I always say, Thank you Lord for my health, my strength, my piece of mind, my career, my family and friends, my relationship, and for putting love in my heart and in my life!

P.S. I finally got a few hours sleep in at around 12 and went back to work at 3-11. Afterwards I had a couple of good drinks, curled up in the bed, talked with one of my boys, and watched Love and Basketball. So what started as a miserable day at 1:30 am came to a peaceful end at 1:30 am the next day. Whew, what a day!

Mother knows best!!!

2006-06-02T01:33:00.000-04:00

So, I am having one of the longest weeks ever!!! I'm short staffed due to the fact that I fired an employees and I have two new hires to get trained, which means I will be working quite alot this month. And for the first time since we got back together, I won't be seeing my baby this weekend! As a matter of fact, I won;t even see Chicago this weekend. How much does that suck??? I don't know what I'm going to do with my free time, probably laundry. Whatever it is, I will be BORED out of my mind!!!

Anyways, the weirdest thing happened the other day. The guy that I let go on Tuesday, well his mom called later that day wondering why her son was fired. I'm like (to myself), I can't believe this bleep!!! (the s word). Do I really have to explain my reasoning for terminating an employee to their MOTHER? Come on now, this is 2006. Time to grow up fellas, mommy can't fight your battles for you, especially if you're a grown ass man!

So to be nice, I explained to his mommy about his job performance and how it didn't meet expectations, blah blah blah, and she seemed to be understanding of my predicament. I was still amused by the fact that this MAN went and cried to his mom, and she tried to fix it for him. Now that's a mother for you, always trying to make things easier for her boy. Lesson learned? Watch out for a momma's boy, lol!!!

Friends. How many of us have them???

2006-05-25T23:04:00.000-04:00

So yesterday I drove down to the city for my girl K's birthday. We went to see what I think is perhaps one of the funniest movies I've ever seen: Over the Hedge. Yes the kiddie movie. It was absolutely hilarious!!! Imagine three grown ass negroes in the movie theatre, falling out all over each other! Can't wait for Cars to come out June 9th! Afterwards, the gang met up for cake, ice cream, drinks, Madden, the Phoenix/Dallas game, and of course, Idol (Congrats to Taylor Hicks and the Soul Patrol).

Today, one of my friends in our circle called me and K to talk about this girl that was on the radio. She has this extremely close circle of friends that she shares everything with. She told something to one of the friends, who in turn, told the rest of the group. The girl got mad at the person because apparently she didn't want the group to know. My friends and I thought that the girl was being overly dramatic and a whiner. WE felt that she was mad because she didn't get to tell her friends before the other friend did and that if she didn't want her circle to know, she should've kept it to herself.

The three of us have been friends for half of our lives (Freshman year of High School, 1993), and we tell each other everything; there aren't any secrets in our circle. We share things collectively and are all privy to the same information. We laugh at the fact that if we tell one person something, then it become common knowledge so then our circle knows before we can tell the rest. And it doesn't matter to us where the news came from. We were going to tell each other anyway! If we told one person something before the other, that usually means the person we told simply answered their phone first, lol

So my question is, "Are there certain rules of secrecy and friendship that apparently my friends and I know nothing about?" Don't get me wrong. I do have friends that I don't reveal personal stuff too (We're cool, just not THAT cool). But my circle is MY circle of trust and I trust these guys with my biggest fears, concerns, just everything, and the feeling is mutual. (SAU baby!!!) If I want to talk about Mr. Smith or sex or something personal, these are the ones that I talk to above anyone else, and vice versa, so why be mad. We think, cross that, we KNOW that friends are gonna talk. Period. That's just what they do.

Saying goodbye to TV shows (and relationships too!)

2006-05-22T21:34:00.001-04:00

So how was everyone's weekend? Mine was pretty nice. I took Friday and Saturday off, so my weekend officially started on Thursday night. I drove down to have dinner with my baby (Chinese of course) and watch Will and Grace's series finale (he doesn't watch it, but he sat and watched it with me. Gotta love him!) I was a little bummed out because now with W&G, That 70's Show, and Charmed all bidding adieu, I only have 5 shows to watch, Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, Smallville, Amazing Race, and American Idol. Guess I better invest in Netflix, lol.

Anyways, a couple of my friends came out to see us on Saturday. They're a couple (7 or 8 years and counting), so it was kinda fun doing the couples thing and having good drinks, good food, and good fun. We all got drunk and they ended up staying the night. Then they left on Sunday afternoon.

Despite all of the fun, my friends ended up having an argument. Apparently one of them got busted having an online dating profile. His profile ended up as a match for another friend, who in turn, reported this news to the boyfriend. Of course, my friend denied this to the fullest. So now, a breakup may be on the horizon.

My baby and I talked about it and we decided that I should stay out of it. Later, he asked me an interesting question. He asked me if I felt like I was tired of being with him, would I tell him, to which I replied "Of course". And I would. I have been in relationships that should have ended long before they actually did and I don't think I can handle going through that again, not that I'm planning on it. This is it for me folks, we ain't breakin up!

But for those that will have to or have experienced a break up, how soon should you walk away??

Courageous Conversations

2006-05-16T23:13:00.000-04:00

So my boss came down to my inn today (FINALLY!!!!) and we got to have our little chat I've been itching to have. To sum up our conversation, I told her everything that was on my mind, where I am in my development, and how I want to be HOME (the Haba is too slow for me. It's cool but it ain't Chicago, if you know what I mean.) We talked about the things that I've done to make myself a better manager, what I want (not need) from her to aid me in the process. We went over how I've changed since I was hired, since February (the last time she came out), and my impact on the inn, district, and the company. Lot's of good things, a couple of opportunities. But nothing I hadn't already figured out ON MY OWN and have begun to work on ON MY OWN.

Overall, I feel a lot better about my job, my position in the company, and about my boss's and my peers opinion of me. It's funny how you never really know your worth until you have a Courageous Conversation.

PS. I got my new glasses today, and they are soooo cute. VERY ME!!!

Can you see the glow in my face?

2006-05-15T00:11:00.000-04:00

So, before I begin, Happy Mother's Day!!!! So I just had the greatest
weekend ever! My sister earned her Nursing Cap at school. They had a small ceremony for the class. Congrats sis, you're almost there!!!! Afterwards, several us went over to my boy's house to play cards and have drinks. It was just like old times. I had a such a good time. Then I went to Mr Smith's house so that I can fall asleep in his arms. I don't know why, but I sleep soooo much better when I'm with him.

Saturday afternoon(my first day off in 3 weeks, for the record), he and I took the next step in our relationship. We made love for the first time and it was everything I thought it would be, but better. I don't want to give out too much info, but WOW!!! I felt a thousand different emotions. It was sensual, erotic, passionate and I'll never
forget how amazing it was. I was ready and he was everything
I wanted a lover to be. Thank you baby for loving me right.

Later in the day, we went out to the movies to see Mission Impossible 3 (pretty good if you haven't seen it) and to dinner at Homerun Inn. We were so into each other it was so cute. It was as if we were the only two people in the world who knew a secret (actually at the time, we DID have a secret, lol). We were both wondering if people can look at a couple and tell if they're in love?

So I have a father, now what?

2006-05-09T23:26:00.000-04:00

So I just got off the phone with my baby and due to a trip that I have to take to Merrillville tomorrow, I'm going to drive the extra 45 minutes to see him! Hoo-rah! (from the movie Jarhead). I get to fall asleep in his arms tomorrow so you know I'm geeked right???
Anyways, we just got done talking about my father and his not being an active part of my life. I didn't meet him until I was 19 and I haven't spoken to him since I was 21. Crazy right? I was telling him how prior to this past Christmas , I had the attitude that if my father wasn't trying to be bothered me, why should I try to be bothered with him. But due to the fact that I spent my first Christmas morning away from everyone that I love, I've been having a change of heart. I was telling Mr. Smith the story of how I tracked him down after my mother told me his name after I asked her. The moment I knocked on his door, my entire body went numb. I remembered him opening the door, looking at me, and knowing EXACTLY who I was. I can't remember if he hugged me or not due the numbness, but some physical contact was made. We talked and talked. He apologized for not being there, told me about my other brothers and sisters (not the ones I talk about in my profile). It was a truly profound experience in my life. I met his wife, Ola or Ora. She, of course, didn't like me, which I picked up on immediately. Maybe she thought I was after the Billion Dollar empire they had amassed (LMAO!!)
We got to know each other somewhat. I got to see some of the similarities we shared. I had his Asian looking eyes. We both loved movies and enjoyed building a massive movie collection. He worked for a computer company, and I like computers and anything with a button to press, lol. He showed me a picture of my grandfather, who had passed long before.
Gradually, I began to notice that if I called, Ola/Ora would always answer the phone and say he wasn't in. If I stopped by, she'd simply crack open the door and tell me that he wasn't in, then close the door (good thing I didn't have to piss, right???) After a few months of this, I had reached an emotional climax and poured out all of my feelings about him, her, and that treatment into what is perhaps the longest letter I've ever written in my life. Of course when I went to hand deliver it to HIM, she said he wasn't in and that she would give it to him. I remember laughing after I left because at the close of the letter, I left him all of my contact info and told him that from now on if he wanted to talk to me, he would have to reach out to me. But he never did.
So now I'm thinking, should I try to reach him again, or should I just leave our relationship where it lays, 6 feet under???

My feet hurt and I need a drink!!!

2006-05-07T00:55:00.000-04:00

So I just got off work (Again!!!). What a brotha gotta do to get a day off around here? After a week in Dallas, ten days in Hoffman Estates (which consisted of quite a few 12 hour work days), interviews, reports, projects, and every other catastrophe that takes place on any given day, I AM TIRED!!! I haven't had an entire day off in two weeks. Now I'm enjoying a much needed drink (Thank God for vodka), mad as hell because I have to work again tomorrow, then Monday, then Tuesday. Wednesday I have an eye appointment in the morning, but guess who's back at work at 1pm??? YEP, me. Superman! But I guess that's why they made me the boss, right?
One of my night auditors made me mad last night. I wanted him to work the second shift for me today so that I could get a day off and go chill with Mr. Smith. He's off from Friday until he gets back to work on Tuesday and do you know what he tells me??? He says he can't because that's his whole weekend (OMG, better excuse next time!). So, I'll just have to remember that the next time he needs someone to cover his shift. Can't I fire him for not being a team player??? LOL, just kidding! He is in for a rude awakening next time he tries to call off though. I cover many shifts without question. Most of my staff does. He better get with the program, LOL!
All I know is that my freakin feet are hurting and I don't see a day off in sight. That's okay, as long as I can get a drink at the end of the day, I guess I'll survive, right?

Remembering what's important

2006-05-03T21:44:00.000-04:00

So it was a gorgeous day today in the haba! Mid-70's, summer breeze, just beautiful! My day got off to a beautiful start with a good morning call from my baby. He calls me every morning at 6:30 am Chicago time (7:30 in the Haba) to wish me a good day and I do the same to him.

We talked about an issue he was having. He was scheduled to work his school's prom this upcoming Friday, but due the death of a former colleague, he was advised not to (by his boss and myself). The funeral is Friday also and he wouldn't be in the best of moods. As luck would have it, his brother had tickets to a White Sox game on Friday that he couldn't attend, so he offered them to him, which is where the dilemna lies: If he isn't up to attending the work function because of the funeral, is he really up for attending a White Sox game??? Most of his friends said go to the game while he and I felt that for integrity purposes, he shouldn't attend the game. I told him that it would really suck if his boss tuned in to Sportscenter and saw him catching a foul ball or something like that. Then how would he be able to explain that? Don't even get me started on the guilt. What do u think???

Later in the day, a beautiful meat, cheese, and fruit basket was delivered to me with a note that simply said "Thank you, TS." (You're welcome baby!) I called him to ask what did I do to deserve the great gift. His reply: "Thank you for loving me and being nice. Sometimes it's ok to let someone know that you appreciate them." How sweet is that!!!

Just taking time out to remember that it's the simple things that makes us who we are.

Not going anywhere for a while???

2006-05-01T23:51:00.000-04:00

So I just wrapped up a ten day stint working in Hoffman Estates for a colleague of mine. This has been quite the experience yall! The staff there worked on quite a few nerves with their issues, calling off, just everything! I never have to baby my own staff, so it kinda irritated me that this staff was trying to make me do just that! I'm glad to be heading back to my property and my staff, whom I miss, believe it or not. I had to issue a written warning to one of the staff members in Hoffman (My friends will joke about this I'm sure, since they say I'm into firing/writing people up now, lol). I worked damn near everyday I was there, including Sunday evening when I was supposed to be enjoying dinner with Mr. Smith (He made tacos which I really wanted and didn't get a chance to eat). But it's cool, that's what I get paid for right? Part of my Friday night also got ruined with excessive calls from the staff there while we were at dinner (He surprised me with dinner at Pappadeaux, very tasty if you've never had it!). And it sucks because all of this extra work cuts into my own, so now I have to play catch-up with the goings-on in BH. And my boss is coming down tomorrow to discuss my future. (It better be good news!!!!) And I haven't gone on vacation in a year this month, just constant work. Hopefully, Mr. Smith and I can go to Miami as planned later this month. But it's not looking good yall! I'm way busy and so is he, and I don't see either schedule clearing up anytime soon, so I'm really gonna be mad if I don't escape from the madness and soon!!! Am I bitching??? Damn, I really do need to get away. I feel like eating a Snicker's Bar, lol!!!

Look, I's married now!!!

2006-04-25T22:33:00.000-04:00

So Mr. Smith and I have officially declared ourselves a "couple". We're in love and all of that mushy stuff. And I'm really happy yall! Probably the happiest I've ever been. Neither of us are the same people we once were and I'm thrilled we were able to find our way back to each other. I've been in Chicago for work (well, the Suburbs anyway) since Friday and will be here until next Monday, so we get to see each other when we're free, so that's good. He's given me a couple of pictures of himself so that I can see him everyday. I laughed because the last pic I had of him, I left it in a frame a little longer than I should have after our breakup and my girl K wound up taking it to "get rid of it". I haven't seen it since, lol! I've always wondered what she did with it, so I'm definitely gonna have to keep these out of her view.
I joined a fantasy basketball playoff league with some of my boys. It's pretty cool. Since I didn't have computer access this weekend (I was honeymooning, lol!!!), I started my team on Monday so now I have some catching up to do, so keep yall fingers crossed for me!
My brother is out of jail and is showing signs of wanting to change his life, so that's pleasing to see.
One of my girl's closest friends came in town this past week, and it's causing quite a rift between her and present boyfriend. He thinks that they're too close to be just friends and he doesn't like it one bit, which is understandable. The guy took her to our Senior prom and were pretty tight for a while. She really liked him, I could tell (though we never discussed it in detail, I could tell that they had "IT"). So of course, this isn't just some friend, more like the one who got away. Anyways, my girl keeps planning all these activities for us all to do, but my boy thinks that she is doing all this for a "friend" (too much attention given to him) rather than for her friends. I keep reassuring him that there isn't anything to worry about. So hopefully this will all blow over soon.
My nerves, my nerves...

Taking the good with the bad

2006-04-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

So in addition to the good things that have been happening to me personally in the past week, I've taken some hits along the way. Well, not me specifically, but some of those I hold dear. My brother got indicted and has to go back to court next month. Hopefully my sister and I can bail him out on Friday, because he's working my nerves calling everyone every five minutes when he knows that most cell phones don't accept collect calls. Then my girl Pookie got attacked over the weekend. Some asshole hit her over the head and tried to rip off her clothes. I thank God for that beautiful person he sent driving down that street that night to scare off the attacker. She's ok on the outside, but I'm worried about what's going on inside her head right now.

On a brighter note, me and my guy are still taking it slow. We talk everyday. I was explaining to one of my friends last night the similarities Mr. Smith and I share with Carrie and Mr. Big, lol. Yep!!! Every Carrie needs a Mr. Big, and I have mine. Here's why:
1. I have a great group of friends who I can share my ups and downs with and they still love me, no matter what (and vice versa, of course)
2. I blog (Carrie writes, lol)
3. We keep finding our way back to each other (As did Carrie and Big)
4. The chemistry between us is alluring and unmistakable (Brad and Angelina can't touch us, lol!!!)
I can really go on and on, but you get my drift!!!

My friend K has calmed down some too. Mr. Smith still isn't allowed in her house if we have a get together, but she referred to him by his name last night, so that's a good sign (for some reason, we all call him by his full name, like it's just one long first name. How cute is that???). It used to be "That Asshole" or "That Trifling SOB" or "That Confused Fuck!" (classic, lol). Now all I have to do is tell my BFF Forever we're back together...

Here's to new beginnings!!!

2006-04-18T17:32:00.000-04:00

So, the ex and I (not the Thug, DL one, the one I talked about last week), after a confession filled and stimulating weekend, have decided to give us another shot (he is, after all, the love of my life and vice versa, as we both confessed to each other over the weekend). We both expressed how we've both matured since we ended our relationship last March. He has come to terms with the fact he can't continue to deny what truly makes him happy (something I told him in the beginning, NOW HE GETS IT!!!) I have dated some interesting guys. I've dated the white guy, the nice guy, the good friend, the playa, the thug, the confused, the closeted, the flamboyant, the jealous, the paranoid individuals and have learned a lot about men, relationships, what I want vs. what I need, and who I want and need. I told him that it's him that I want, always has, always will be and that he knows he feels the same way, to which he quickly agreed. So we agreed to not pick up where we left off, but rather to start over and build a fresh, solid foundation and getting to know the "new and improved" versions of ourselves. I'm excited yall!!!! Anyways, I told some of my closest friends and one friend, she went ballistic! She has been there throughout it all and doesn't trust this changed person my guy says he is and she feels it will only lead to heartache for me, yet again. I understand where she's coming from, and I love her for being protective of me. But I'm trying to reassure her that I'm in control of my feelings now, I have matured in more ways than one (and so has he for that matter. I would know, I know him better than he knows himself), and that everything will be fine. So hopefully she'll come to terms, let's hope yall, cuz she my girl and I don't want her dislike for him to spill over.

To be loved, To be loved, OOHHH what a feelin...!!!

2006-04-13T22:50:00.000-04:00

Greetings from Dallas everyone!!!! This is my last night here in Dallas and I can't wait to get home! Well, since I'm homeless, I can't wait to get to Chicago. The trip has been very educational and it's motivating and interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes at my job's corporate headquarters. Anyways, back to the real dirt! I had an interesting phone call with an ex of mine (the love of my life for whom I still carry a torch for, though I'll never make it known unless he does first. I'm classy like that yall, lol!!!!) Well what started out as friendly banter turned into an interesting, lovely, and flattering conversation. I didn't tell yall this, but me and this person went to breakfast a couple of weeks ago. It was purely innocent, just two old friends having breakfast. He was telling me his relationship stories and I chimed in with a few of my own. Whenever the two of us are together, there's this intense chemistry that just fills any room we're in. But I had self-control on that day, Thank God! We talked again last week, and I found out that he was recently single. We also shared reminisced over some intimate moments and I was touched over some of the things that he still remembers, even though it's been over a year. I was somewhat surprised and excited. I hope I'm not getting excited over nothing. I kinda feel like something's about to happen in the near future. We're going to the movies tomorrow night. Lord give me the strength...

Thank God for Lesson's Learned (Even if they have to come the hard way!!!)

2006-04-10T04:25:00.001-04:00

So I went to visit my younger brother in jail today. He's 17 and got caught up in a drug raid. I have never been to jail nor have I ever visited anyone in jail, so this was definitely a milestone in my life, lol! Anyways, after waiting for what seemed like hours, I finally got to see my brother and I wasn't as shocked to see him as I was by the words that would soon come out of my brother's mouth.
For the last couple of years, my brother has been somewhat of a problem child(you know the type: liar, thief, hardhead) Both my sister and I have tried on several occasions to get him to see that he was headed for trouble, but as you well know, teenage boys don't listen.
Well guys, my brother told me that he was sorry that he never listened to me and my sister about how hard life would be if he didn't get his act together. He now knows what we meant and that he was sorry he had to learn that lesson the hard way. He also said that he needed to make some changes in his life and that he needed to go back to school. Yall, my mouth dropped!!!! He then went on to tell me that he realizes that the people whom he considered to be his friends Weren't and he knows this because they haven't come to see about him and never had his best interests in mind. I sat there like"Really now, where is MY brother???" He also told me that he was trying to contact my 22 year old brother (who's into the same things as this brother) and talk to him about making necessary changes in his life also before he ended up in the County, because he can now speak firsthand and say that the "Easy" life wasn't the life for him!!! I was so proud of him, I didn't know what to do.
Afterwards, we shot the breeze and cracked jokes on his hair and shoes (anything to lighten the mood). It was one of the most memorable 30 minutes of my life!!! When it was time for him to leave, he got up with tears in his eyes, which of course made me well up a little bit too! As I walked back to my car, I cried and cried, not tears of sadness, but of pride, hope, and the joy of knowing that my brother has truly been changed by this experience! Thank you Lord, you are truly a wondrous blessing! So I'm asking yall to pray for my brother and that he's released after court on this upcoming Thursday!! I will keep you posted on his progress.

The age old debate- Texas or Florida???

2006-04-08T16:33:00.000-04:00

So I'm getting my clothes ready for my trip to Dallas, TX on Monday. My job is sending me for the entire week for some Mandatory training that I can do without. Normally I enjoy going to different cities and I will probably enjoy myself in Dallas, but I'm pissed yall, lol!!! I was supposed to be leaving for the Bahamas tomorrow with some of my best friends. My BFF Forever(Best Friend Forever Forever!), her husband, and another friend were going on a 3 day, 2 night cruise to the Bahamas Sunday and we were going to spend the rest of the week in Miami/Ft. Lauderdale and I WAS SO EXCITED!!!! We had been planning the trips since December and had all the plans finalized a couple weeks ago when I visited home. I gets back to work the next day and WHAM! An email from my corporate department with a flight itinerary for Dallas the same week I'm supposed to be sipping everything under the ocean sun! I damn near cried yall I was so mad. So I called my boss and she confirmed that I will be in Dallas for Management training and that it was MANDATORY!!!! So I'm going to be real bitter for weeks to come at the mere mention of Dallas, Florida, and cruises. That's ok, as long as they bring me a shot glass, I'll get over it I guess. Never been to Dallas, so at least I get to visit another city, right? Now I have to find bar listings, lol!!!

Step into my office please

2006-04-07T19:48:00.000-04:00

So I have two employees to fire and took care of one yesterday. It wasn't a pleasurable event. I tried to break it to her as gently as I possibly could without hurting her feelings (I couldn't just tell her she sucked as a housekeeper). She took it rather well, even though she cried uncontrollably, which usually makes me cry, but I held my ground. I did after she left though, because I'm a big crybaby. This is the first time I had to fire someone. I guess I'm growing up, lol!! And to think, I have to fire someone else tomorrow, but replacing her will be difficult. I have done some interviews..I'm in trouble yall!!! These people make me nervous...some have been sentenced for Anger Management( Yeah come work at my hotel and kill my guests when they piss you off!! )
To end my Thursday on a high note, I drove home to Chicago last night and went out on a date with this guy I met last week. He's an awesome guy and we had a good time last night. We ate Chinese Food (Ming's on 71st and Yates...Try it, it's that oooooh weee!!!!), played some spades (I won Cutthroat and Partners, cant nobody get with this on the table), and went out for a couple of drinks. I slept at my sister's house and then I drove back to BH this morning to go to work an interview another batch of prospects. That didn't go to well. One had her car break down on her, the other had her just out of jail boyfriend waiting for her. What's a man to do???? I did just get my haircut, so I'm cute again, lol!!! That always makes me smile!

Chapter 2: The Honeymoon is Over

2006-04-06T00:46:00.000-04:00

After a couple weeks had passed, I began noticing things about AM that annoyed me. He always asked me questions about guys that I used to date and what they did for me and what we did. It didn't bother me at first, but by now I was getting agitated. I kept thinking, "What does it matter? I'm not with them so who cares!!!" He also drank and smoked a lot of weed. Now don't get me wrong, I can drink with the best of them, but he did it all the time. I'm not into smoking anymore, but he smoked so when he smoked around me, I didn't say anything. Now that was a HUGE step for me because normally I make smokers stand on my backporch or outside so I don't have to smell it. He would also chat with people on my messenger list pretending to be me, telling friends and people that I've dated and remained friends with how I happy I was now that I had me a "...thug ass nigga who know how to bring the dick!" Then he would delete them from my list!! This would really piss me off for 3 reasons: 1. I don't talk openly about my personal life to any and everybody, that's what the members of SAU are for. 2. I don't speak T-H-U-G! 3. I'm not real big on FRAUD, lol. Don't pretend to be me! When he tried to laugh it off, I chastised him on these points and he accused me of still having feelings for some of these people! I'm like how jealous is he! The honeymoon was truly over...

Chapter 1: They meet

2006-04-06T00:26:00.000-04:00

I met (lets call him AM) at the end of January. He was from Flint, MI. I haven't told you all this, but I work in Benton Harbor, MI, which is about an hour and a half from Chicago. Anyways, we talked to each other everyday and we hit it off instantly! We talked about life, issues with past loves, what we were looking for in future loves, things we like to do, any and everything. He was totally different from the guys that I was used to dating so that really intrigued me. He was very much on the DL (yeah, they still exist). He had been to jail but no one's judging. He told me several stories about the DL life, which really interested me. I'm not totally out with my lifestyle (my closest friends and a few family members, and of course the guys I date know about me. I act the same around everyone so I never know who knows and who doesn't, but who cares, right??? It's 2006! I don't label myself, I'm just me, no if's, and's or but's) So we decided to hook up. I drove to Flint to go and get him so that we can spend sometime together. And thus the story begins...

Why did I answer the phone when it said private?

2006-04-06T00:09:00.000-04:00

So I answered my phone today when it said "Private" only to find out it was the guy I dated from the End of January up until a few weeks ago. The conversation was quick and painless, but I asked myself "Why is this fool calling me private?" I suppose I should tell you all the story of Thugback Mountain...

Nice to meet you!!

2006-04-05T23:33:00.000-04:00

Hello all! This is my first blog ever so I'm not quite sure how this works. I was told by my friend Brown boy that Blogging is therapeutic for him, and Lord knows I can use some free therapy, lol!! And from what I can tell this looks like it's going to be good for me. I love the idea of being able to get things off my chest, vent, and express myself after a bad day without all the backtalk and unnecessary questions that only pisses you off even more! And I like the idea that I can talk about both problems that I'm having and good times that I'm enjoying and get feedback from people all over. This is really cool!!! So Kudos to all involved in this community and I look forward to blogging and chatting with you!