When I set my mind to something....or my heart...I'm very committed and passionate. But some things I'm just not good at sticking with like exercise and regularly going to the gym. I tried a 90 day experiment and it just didn't work.
I bought a bottle of 90 prenatal pills (no I'm not pregnant). I wanted to take a multi-vitamin for 90 days and see what effects it would have. But the reason why I could not stick with this one was the shape, size, smell, and after taste of the pills. I don't know how pregnant women do it. I guess because the child growing inside of them serves as motivation. But the pill was a horse pill...it needed to be a gel capsule or something to make it easier to swallow...it smelled awful and no matter what I drank to take it, it would always leave a nasty after taste in my throat.
I stuck with it for one month and the only thing I noticed was that my urine came out a stronger color of yellow than normal...I know TMI...but that just goes to show that all the extra vitamins that pill gave me that my body did not need my body got rid of the excess.
Have you ever said you were going to do something for X number of days? What was it and were you able to stick with it?
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Thursday, May 11, 2006
NYC Bargains
For a city that is known for being expensive and overpriced you just gotta love a bargain when you catch one.
Some of the latest bargains I have found:
- Paid $10 to have my hair washed...I thought for sure it would at least cost me $25.
- Paid $2.50 for some fresh cut mango...every time I pass the mango man in Union Square on my way to my internship I stop and buy one.
- Paid $1.50 for a soft serve vanilla ice cream cone with rainbow sprinkles from the Mister Softee truck...that's the same price I used to pay for Carvel soft serve vanilla ice cream cones with rainbow sprinkles back in the day.
- Girlfriends paid less than $40 for the various purses they bought on Canal Street...why pay full price for designer purses when you can get them for cheap.
- Got my nails done and even with a few broke nails it only cost me $30...2 weeks ago I paid someone $50 and they did a terrible job so for $20 less I got quality.
- I have a guy in Hawaii that sells me 10 Blockbuster movie coupons for $8 plus a stamp. The cost savings on this one is ridiculous because it's over $5 a movie to rent movies from Blockbuster.
So in a city where the rent on my apt is higher than the mortgage on my house in Atlanta I have to be thankful for the bargains that I found. If anyone else knows of any NYC bargains, pass them my way.
Some of the latest bargains I have found:
- Paid $10 to have my hair washed...I thought for sure it would at least cost me $25.
- Paid $2.50 for some fresh cut mango...every time I pass the mango man in Union Square on my way to my internship I stop and buy one.
- Paid $1.50 for a soft serve vanilla ice cream cone with rainbow sprinkles from the Mister Softee truck...that's the same price I used to pay for Carvel soft serve vanilla ice cream cones with rainbow sprinkles back in the day.
- Girlfriends paid less than $40 for the various purses they bought on Canal Street...why pay full price for designer purses when you can get them for cheap.
- Got my nails done and even with a few broke nails it only cost me $30...2 weeks ago I paid someone $50 and they did a terrible job so for $20 less I got quality.
- I have a guy in Hawaii that sells me 10 Blockbuster movie coupons for $8 plus a stamp. The cost savings on this one is ridiculous because it's over $5 a movie to rent movies from Blockbuster.
So in a city where the rent on my apt is higher than the mortgage on my house in Atlanta I have to be thankful for the bargains that I found. If anyone else knows of any NYC bargains, pass them my way.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Lost in a drunken haze
It's hard to blog about a night you don't remember...but I'll try anyway.
Big birthday shout out to German Girl...but it's all your fault. LOL.
German Girl decided to do an impromptu birthday gathering. So I met her and some of her friends at this club called....called...dayum, I don't even remember the name of the club. But it's on 14th Street between 9th and 10th. (I had to IM German Girl for the name, she says Lotus in the meatpacking district.) I have to take her word for it cause I don't remember.
So anyway, I get there and there is a choice of vodka and cranberry or vodka and orange juice. Some one made me a vodka and craberry and that shit was weak. I said it needs more vodka. And that is where my night was off to a bad start.
Next drink, that I remember was a watermelon martini and it was fabulous. I have to have that one again. And I think the rest of the night was various combinations of vodka and cranberry but I can't be too sure about that.
From the third drink until we left I have no recollection of ANYTHING. Well I do remember German Girl pouring some more vodka in to my drink...lol. I could have danced on the bar for all I know and the only source I have to go by is the other drunk people I was with.
So I sincerely apologize to anyone I may have offended. I know I can't drown out my problems but I sure do try hard too. I NEEDED that night in more ways than I can ever describe in this blog. I really did have a blast and it felt so good to lose myself for awhile and not think about all the BS I'm dealing with right now. I'll save some of the BS for my next blog entry.
Again, shout out to German Girl...you know how to celebrate a birthday...and much love to Jersey Boy for making sure I got home safely. What would I do without you two?
The picture included in this post I think I took while I was still sober but I can't be sure.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Fire me, re-hire me
What would you do if your employer decided to fire everyone and in order to get your job back or another position within the company you had to re-apply?
I know this sounds like a crazy concept but it is what a newspaper owner did the last time he bought some newspapers and there is a thought he may use that method again if he buys some more newspapers.
I actually like the idea. Why? Because people become too complacent in their positions. Especially if they hit a cushy position and are no longer trying to advance. I think it would be an opportunity to get rid of dead weight and to get skilled people in to the right positions.
Every place I have worked at I can think of how I would restructure the department based on the knowledge and skill sets of the people I worked with as well as restructuring positions. Like if a person is good at coding and working with databases they don't need to be a producer dealing with the daily copy. Or if a person has an expertise in video and audio you allow them to specialize in those areas.
I guess I'm down with the method of fire me, re-hire me because I know I'm overqualified for my job so I would no problem being hired back. If anything I could easily get a promotion.
But you have to admit that the fire me, re-hire me concept is innovative and should make people reassess their skills and where they are in terms of their careers.
I know this sounds like a crazy concept but it is what a newspaper owner did the last time he bought some newspapers and there is a thought he may use that method again if he buys some more newspapers.
I actually like the idea. Why? Because people become too complacent in their positions. Especially if they hit a cushy position and are no longer trying to advance. I think it would be an opportunity to get rid of dead weight and to get skilled people in to the right positions.
Every place I have worked at I can think of how I would restructure the department based on the knowledge and skill sets of the people I worked with as well as restructuring positions. Like if a person is good at coding and working with databases they don't need to be a producer dealing with the daily copy. Or if a person has an expertise in video and audio you allow them to specialize in those areas.
I guess I'm down with the method of fire me, re-hire me because I know I'm overqualified for my job so I would no problem being hired back. If anything I could easily get a promotion.
But you have to admit that the fire me, re-hire me concept is innovative and should make people reassess their skills and where they are in terms of their careers.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Birth Control Debate
The last time I reupped my birth control shot the doctor said to me, why are you on birth control if you are not in a relationship and you are not having sex? She had a point.
I haven't regularly had sex or been in a long term relationship in quite some time. But ever since the situation with Hurricane went down I have faithfully been on the shot. Just don't want no man to have the power to fuck me over in that way again.
I do think I have become dependent on my birth control shot. I remember what it was like when I did get a regular period. I didn't have PMS, cramping, bloating and all the other stuff most women have. My only symptom I would become so tired I could sleep for 12 hours straight and still feel like I hadn't slept at all.
I'm partially afraid to make the transition off the shot. Now would be a good time because I'm not dating, I'm not in a relationship and I'm not having sex so there is no risk of pregnancy. But what will the chemical change do to my body, particularly my emotions. I'm far too busy for my body to go through a change where I may feel sleepy all the time. And I don't want coming off the shot to throw me in to a depression. There are enough things going on in my life that could make me depressed without me aiding it by forcing my body to go through a change. Strange as this may sound, the shot has chemically balanced my body out.
As you can see I'm not really sure what to do. I have about another month before I have to get my shot again and I need to make up my mind. Of course this isn't the only thing in my life I need to make up my mind about but I have to start tackling things one by one.
I haven't regularly had sex or been in a long term relationship in quite some time. But ever since the situation with Hurricane went down I have faithfully been on the shot. Just don't want no man to have the power to fuck me over in that way again.
I do think I have become dependent on my birth control shot. I remember what it was like when I did get a regular period. I didn't have PMS, cramping, bloating and all the other stuff most women have. My only symptom I would become so tired I could sleep for 12 hours straight and still feel like I hadn't slept at all.
I'm partially afraid to make the transition off the shot. Now would be a good time because I'm not dating, I'm not in a relationship and I'm not having sex so there is no risk of pregnancy. But what will the chemical change do to my body, particularly my emotions. I'm far too busy for my body to go through a change where I may feel sleepy all the time. And I don't want coming off the shot to throw me in to a depression. There are enough things going on in my life that could make me depressed without me aiding it by forcing my body to go through a change. Strange as this may sound, the shot has chemically balanced my body out.
As you can see I'm not really sure what to do. I have about another month before I have to get my shot again and I need to make up my mind. Of course this isn't the only thing in my life I need to make up my mind about but I have to start tackling things one by one.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Only in New York City...
I have been blogging a lot lately. Why? I don't know. It's not like anything that great is going on with my life. And it's not like this is apart of my job like it used to be in Atlanta. So I'm going to cut back to 2 or 3 blogs a week. But before I slow my role I'm gonna hit y'all with another entertaining edition of "Only in New York City..."
Only in New York City can you buy a custom weave.
Y'all know I've being going through this transformation. Well part of the transformation was deciding that I wanted a weave and not just any weave. If I'm going to be wearing a weave for awhile I want a quality weave. So my stylist suggested I go to the Adorable hair factory. The hair lasts about a year depending on wear and tear and it NEVER tangles. Now anyone who has worn a weave knows how much weaves tangle so a weave that never tangles is worth any amount of money to me. So for almost $200 (and about an hour of my time to get it) I got eight ounces of 12 inch 60% Spanish wavy, 40% French refined. The color actually matches the color I had died my own hair too. So far I'm loving it. I like the mix of the two different curls. If you are looking for a good weave hit up Adorable.
Only in New York City do random people tell you you should be a model as you are on the subway or even in the library doing research.
I swear y'all it's the hair. I stopped counting after the 5th person asked me if I model or if I have ever considered modeling. No one was asking me about modeling before I put the weave in. One guy even asked to take my picture as I was walking to the subway station. My answer to every person that says this, "Thanks for asking but I'm way too short to be America's Next Top Model."
Only in New York City do you almost get jacked as you are getting out of a cab.
Now this is an old tale I just didn't remember to blog about. But back when I was dating Trinidad Brotha he didn't like when I would walk from work to his house late at night. So one night I finally gave in and took a cab. As I paid the cab driver some guy rolled up on the cabbie to jack him. The cab driver immediately tried to speed off as I was still getting out of the cab. I hopped out of the cab so fast. And luckily I had the key to TB's door in my hand. When it's late at night it might be better to walk than to take a cab.
Only in New York City do you almost get in to a fist fight with one of the security guards at your job.
Again this is an old tale I didn't remember to blog about. But again, back when I was dating TB one of the security guards at my job was giving me a hard time about letting him in. The first night I let it go, the second night the New Jersey Drive in me came out and we seriously almost came to blows. I didn't speak to that security guard for months. He finally said, "Happy Easter," to me last night. I know this story may not sound funny, but looking back on it, how it all went down was hilarious. In NYC security guards take their jobs seriously...way too seriously.
Only in New York City does the car service I use every night not know how to get me home.
My job provides a car service for anyone that works the late shift. I have been using the car service more frequently now that I'm working two jobs. Saves me about 30 minutes and that is 30 more minutes I could be sleeping. There are a ton of ways to drive to my apt but there are about 3 solid routes: West Side Highway, Harlem River Drive or Madison Avenue. Why do the driver's never know how to get to my apt and because I have to give so many directions I might as well be driving myself.
Only in New York City can you buy a custom weave.
Y'all know I've being going through this transformation. Well part of the transformation was deciding that I wanted a weave and not just any weave. If I'm going to be wearing a weave for awhile I want a quality weave. So my stylist suggested I go to the Adorable hair factory. The hair lasts about a year depending on wear and tear and it NEVER tangles. Now anyone who has worn a weave knows how much weaves tangle so a weave that never tangles is worth any amount of money to me. So for almost $200 (and about an hour of my time to get it) I got eight ounces of 12 inch 60% Spanish wavy, 40% French refined. The color actually matches the color I had died my own hair too. So far I'm loving it. I like the mix of the two different curls. If you are looking for a good weave hit up Adorable.
Only in New York City do random people tell you you should be a model as you are on the subway or even in the library doing research.
I swear y'all it's the hair. I stopped counting after the 5th person asked me if I model or if I have ever considered modeling. No one was asking me about modeling before I put the weave in. One guy even asked to take my picture as I was walking to the subway station. My answer to every person that says this, "Thanks for asking but I'm way too short to be America's Next Top Model."
Only in New York City do you almost get jacked as you are getting out of a cab.
Now this is an old tale I just didn't remember to blog about. But back when I was dating Trinidad Brotha he didn't like when I would walk from work to his house late at night. So one night I finally gave in and took a cab. As I paid the cab driver some guy rolled up on the cabbie to jack him. The cab driver immediately tried to speed off as I was still getting out of the cab. I hopped out of the cab so fast. And luckily I had the key to TB's door in my hand. When it's late at night it might be better to walk than to take a cab.
Only in New York City do you almost get in to a fist fight with one of the security guards at your job.
Again this is an old tale I didn't remember to blog about. But again, back when I was dating TB one of the security guards at my job was giving me a hard time about letting him in. The first night I let it go, the second night the New Jersey Drive in me came out and we seriously almost came to blows. I didn't speak to that security guard for months. He finally said, "Happy Easter," to me last night. I know this story may not sound funny, but looking back on it, how it all went down was hilarious. In NYC security guards take their jobs seriously...way too seriously.
Only in New York City does the car service I use every night not know how to get me home.
My job provides a car service for anyone that works the late shift. I have been using the car service more frequently now that I'm working two jobs. Saves me about 30 minutes and that is 30 more minutes I could be sleeping. There are a ton of ways to drive to my apt but there are about 3 solid routes: West Side Highway, Harlem River Drive or Madison Avenue. Why do the driver's never know how to get to my apt and because I have to give so many directions I might as well be driving myself.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Job Junkie
Being in NYC, the media capital of the world, has turned me in to a job junkie. There are just so many opportunities here for freelance, part-time and full-time work.
As y'all know I'm interning at a magazine during the day and working my regular gig at night. Well a few days ago I interviewed for a potential freelance position with a .com and I have an opportunity to do some freelance fact-checking at another magazine.
I know you are thinking how in the hell can you do all this? Well, it's all about time management. My permanent gig is what it is so the days and hours are set. My current internship ends the middle of June. The freelance fact-checking at another magazine would begin the middle of June. And the freelance position with the .com would be from whenever I started (if chosen) until the beginning of September. So that would be just enough time for me to get in to the groove of grad school, if I get in.
As much as I'm trying to do and there really is a method to my madness. I know I can't do it all but I can do quite a few things if I time things correctly and manage my time wisely.
The problem is that almost every single day I find a new opportunity or get sent an email about an opportunity I might be interested in and I'm interested in them all. But there are only 24 hours in a day...168 hours in a week...as much as I would like to do it all I know realistically I can't do it all but it sure is a nice change from Atlanta to have other professional options.
As y'all know I'm interning at a magazine during the day and working my regular gig at night. Well a few days ago I interviewed for a potential freelance position with a .com and I have an opportunity to do some freelance fact-checking at another magazine.
I know you are thinking how in the hell can you do all this? Well, it's all about time management. My permanent gig is what it is so the days and hours are set. My current internship ends the middle of June. The freelance fact-checking at another magazine would begin the middle of June. And the freelance position with the .com would be from whenever I started (if chosen) until the beginning of September. So that would be just enough time for me to get in to the groove of grad school, if I get in.
As much as I'm trying to do and there really is a method to my madness. I know I can't do it all but I can do quite a few things if I time things correctly and manage my time wisely.
The problem is that almost every single day I find a new opportunity or get sent an email about an opportunity I might be interested in and I'm interested in them all. But there are only 24 hours in a day...168 hours in a week...as much as I would like to do it all I know realistically I can't do it all but it sure is a nice change from Atlanta to have other professional options.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
D&B in NYC
I had a pretty good weekend. I know it's Tuesday so why am I talking about the weekend but you know Tuesday is my Monday.
Saturday I went to the open house at Drexel and I was already intrigued by the program and now I'm 100% sure I want to pursue grad school full throttle.
Sunday I got some much needed sleep, watched a DVD, did some unpacking and started on my grad school application. But the highlight of my day was a trip to the newly opened D&B on 42nd between 7th & 8th. It's right in the middle of Times Square. German Girl and Jersey Boy invited me to go because GG has her godbrother visiting this week and she knew that would be a great place to take him and his friend. I was more excited than anyone to be at D&B.
For the first time in months I truly felt at home in NYC. D&B was my regular spot and you best believe it's going to be my regular spot in NYC. I started getting aquainted with various workers, talking to them, etc. Cause I plan to have my face in the place on the regular. Of course the drinks are more expensive. The same $6/7 drink in Atl is $10/12 here. They have happy hour Monday-Friday from 4:30-7pm...just like Atl...BUT the drink special is only $1 off each drink. Not quite the half priced special I was hoping for. They don't have the Power Combo where if you buy certain entrees you get a $10 power card with it. They don't offer late night happy hour and sadly they don't have any pool tables. A D&B without pool tables? Of course the place is not as big as the one in ATL but this is NYC and space is limited and expensive. And the menu is slightly different but I remember in January they were making some changes to the drink and food menu. It's not quite the Atl D&B but it will do. And if I didn't have a conference call today at 4:30 I would be up in there.
Monday of course I worked at my internship but in the evening I took a dance clinic that was kick ass...or should I say it kicked my ass. My body still hurts from the experience. Latin dancing does not require as much use of all the muscles in your body as the class I went too. But it was good for my ego to see that despite no formal dance training I could still hold my own with some of the best. Cause there were some people in the clinic that have been dancing since they could walk. I was just there for fun, the experience and a good workout and I got all three.
So that was my weekend and you best believe I will be in D&B at least two more times before this week is out.
Saturday I went to the open house at Drexel and I was already intrigued by the program and now I'm 100% sure I want to pursue grad school full throttle.
Sunday I got some much needed sleep, watched a DVD, did some unpacking and started on my grad school application. But the highlight of my day was a trip to the newly opened D&B on 42nd between 7th & 8th. It's right in the middle of Times Square. German Girl and Jersey Boy invited me to go because GG has her godbrother visiting this week and she knew that would be a great place to take him and his friend. I was more excited than anyone to be at D&B.
For the first time in months I truly felt at home in NYC. D&B was my regular spot and you best believe it's going to be my regular spot in NYC. I started getting aquainted with various workers, talking to them, etc. Cause I plan to have my face in the place on the regular. Of course the drinks are more expensive. The same $6/7 drink in Atl is $10/12 here. They have happy hour Monday-Friday from 4:30-7pm...just like Atl...BUT the drink special is only $1 off each drink. Not quite the half priced special I was hoping for. They don't have the Power Combo where if you buy certain entrees you get a $10 power card with it. They don't offer late night happy hour and sadly they don't have any pool tables. A D&B without pool tables? Of course the place is not as big as the one in ATL but this is NYC and space is limited and expensive. And the menu is slightly different but I remember in January they were making some changes to the drink and food menu. It's not quite the Atl D&B but it will do. And if I didn't have a conference call today at 4:30 I would be up in there.
Monday of course I worked at my internship but in the evening I took a dance clinic that was kick ass...or should I say it kicked my ass. My body still hurts from the experience. Latin dancing does not require as much use of all the muscles in your body as the class I went too. But it was good for my ego to see that despite no formal dance training I could still hold my own with some of the best. Cause there were some people in the clinic that have been dancing since they could walk. I was just there for fun, the experience and a good workout and I got all three.
So that was my weekend and you best believe I will be in D&B at least two more times before this week is out.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
To Do List for the To Do List
Have you ever noticed that when you make a list of things to do each thing on your list has its own list. And then even some of those things on the to do list for the to do list could have their own to do list. (Try saying that five times fast.) Here's my latest to do list and you'll see what I mean.
Apply to Graduate School by self appointed deadline of May 14
- Fill out online application
- Apply for financial aid
* Fill out Drexel Financial Aid Application
* File a FAFSA
* Search for scholarships
# Register for FinAid site
- Request transcripts
- Request GRE scores
- Write essay
- Get people to write recommendations
Clean and unpack my apartment
- Buy cleaning supplies
* Convince Mother that I am too busy to go shopping and get her to buy cleaning supplies
# If I get Mother to buy cleaning supplies:
+ Clean bathroom
+ Dust
+ Mop hardwood floors
- Take out trash
- Recycle
- Wash clothes
* Sort laundry first
* Try convincing Mother that I am too busy to wash clothes as well
* If Mother doesn't work, try bribing my niece.
- Start unpacking the MISC boxes first and purging
* Be sure to shred EVERYTHING
- Get my nephew to come to apt and put up shelves and blinds
And last but not least and probably the most important, FIND TIME TO DO ALL THIS STUFF!
Apply to Graduate School by self appointed deadline of May 14
- Fill out online application
- Apply for financial aid
* Fill out Drexel Financial Aid Application
* File a FAFSA
* Search for scholarships
# Register for FinAid site
- Request transcripts
- Request GRE scores
- Write essay
- Get people to write recommendations
Clean and unpack my apartment
- Buy cleaning supplies
* Convince Mother that I am too busy to go shopping and get her to buy cleaning supplies
# If I get Mother to buy cleaning supplies:
+ Clean bathroom
+ Dust
+ Mop hardwood floors
- Take out trash
- Recycle
- Wash clothes
* Sort laundry first
* Try convincing Mother that I am too busy to wash clothes as well
* If Mother doesn't work, try bribing my niece.
- Start unpacking the MISC boxes first and purging
* Be sure to shred EVERYTHING
- Get my nephew to come to apt and put up shelves and blinds
And last but not least and probably the most important, FIND TIME TO DO ALL THIS STUFF!
Friday, April 07, 2006
Grad School Dilemma
I'm seriously considering going to grad school...again.
Back in 2001 when I was a senior at UNC-Chapel Hill I applied to grad school because the job market was so bad at the time I thought if all else fails I could go to grad school. Luckily I got a one year internship that turned in to a full time job three months in to my internship. But I did get in to Northwestern for the New Media Master's program and in to UNC for the Master's in Library and Information Science.
I again considered going to grad school around 2004/2005. But I thought I wanted to pursue a Master's in African-American Studies so I could have a degree in something I'm passionate about as well as be able to teach. I could totally see myself teaching a Blacks in Film class or the portrayal of journalism and journalists through film and TV. But I gave that up because I bought a house and there weren't any good programs near me in Atlanta or quality online programs for a degree of that nature.
So here it is, 2006, and I'm SERIOUSLY, like more seriously than ever before considering grad school. I found a great accredited school that has an online master's program in a degree I want. So on Saturday morning I'm going to drive down to Philadelphia (one of my homes away from home) to go to an open house at Drexel University for the Master's in Library and Information Science online degree program.
When I get out of journalism, notice I said when cause I don't plan on doing this forever, I want a solid plan B. I think this particular master's would give me that solid plan B. I wouldn't totally throw away what I have learned from my bachelor's in multimedia journalism. This degree would allow me to incorporate the multimedia skills I have and hopefully take it to the next level or another, different level.
Ten years from now I could see myself working at a library teaching computer courses on everything from how to use Word to how to build a web page. I could see myself designing, maintaining and updating databases. As more and more newspapers are moving to make their websites the standard archive I could even see myself still working at newspapers just not on this side of the fence.
I took the GRE back in 2002 and I think the scores last 5 years so it feels like now or never for me. Because if I don't pursue a higher degree now I probably won't take the GRE again to do it at some point down the road. Plus now is an ideal time. I'm single, no boyfriend or husband and no kids. So the only demands on my time are the demands I create.
I know several of y'all are in grad school both the classroom version and the online version. What has been your experience? What made you decide to pursue a higher degree? What do you plan on doing with your degree? Any advice for me or someone like me who is considering going back to school?
Back in 2001 when I was a senior at UNC-Chapel Hill I applied to grad school because the job market was so bad at the time I thought if all else fails I could go to grad school. Luckily I got a one year internship that turned in to a full time job three months in to my internship. But I did get in to Northwestern for the New Media Master's program and in to UNC for the Master's in Library and Information Science.
I again considered going to grad school around 2004/2005. But I thought I wanted to pursue a Master's in African-American Studies so I could have a degree in something I'm passionate about as well as be able to teach. I could totally see myself teaching a Blacks in Film class or the portrayal of journalism and journalists through film and TV. But I gave that up because I bought a house and there weren't any good programs near me in Atlanta or quality online programs for a degree of that nature.
So here it is, 2006, and I'm SERIOUSLY, like more seriously than ever before considering grad school. I found a great accredited school that has an online master's program in a degree I want. So on Saturday morning I'm going to drive down to Philadelphia (one of my homes away from home) to go to an open house at Drexel University for the Master's in Library and Information Science online degree program.
When I get out of journalism, notice I said when cause I don't plan on doing this forever, I want a solid plan B. I think this particular master's would give me that solid plan B. I wouldn't totally throw away what I have learned from my bachelor's in multimedia journalism. This degree would allow me to incorporate the multimedia skills I have and hopefully take it to the next level or another, different level.
Ten years from now I could see myself working at a library teaching computer courses on everything from how to use Word to how to build a web page. I could see myself designing, maintaining and updating databases. As more and more newspapers are moving to make their websites the standard archive I could even see myself still working at newspapers just not on this side of the fence.
I took the GRE back in 2002 and I think the scores last 5 years so it feels like now or never for me. Because if I don't pursue a higher degree now I probably won't take the GRE again to do it at some point down the road. Plus now is an ideal time. I'm single, no boyfriend or husband and no kids. So the only demands on my time are the demands I create.
I know several of y'all are in grad school both the classroom version and the online version. What has been your experience? What made you decide to pursue a higher degree? What do you plan on doing with your degree? Any advice for me or someone like me who is considering going back to school?
Thursday, April 06, 2006
It's Hard Out Here for a Jersey Chick
Everyone has haters...it's just a fact of life. And most of the time I just ignore the haters but lately it's getting hard to ignore because the hate is coming from all sides, from unexpected persons and for no real reason.
So when all these people are hating do they remember all the things I did for them...the times I was there for them...the little things and the big things I did for them. Of course not...cause they are so absorbed in their hateration they are not seeing the forest from the trees.
I wish someone would have some sense and before they say something wrong, stupid, mean, etc. about me they would stop and think...hmmm...I can't really hate on her cause she did X, Y and Z for me. So if you are mad at me for whatever reason...keep it to yourself or be a man or woman about it and come to me with your beef. But don't start public tirades on me because you really don't want me to say all that I hold within.
And if you are going to hate watch what you say, who you say it to and you best be ready to stand on your word as bond to defend it cause bullshit holds no water. The C.I.A. ain't got shit on me and I have been saying that for years. Anything I really want to know, it's not hard for me to find out. So if you think what you are saying to someone about me is in confidence, think again. People love to talk and they really love to talk when something negative is being said.
If you don't want none, don't bring it, cause I promise you I'm not the one you want to get in to a verbal tirade with. I will cut you so quick and so deep you won't even know what hit you...and that's in the verbal sense not the physical. Although, I don't fight...I don't argue...but I damn sure will clock a bitch in the mouth and beat that bitch with a bottle. Don't let the little size fool you I'm 100% Jersey...all day, every day.... and have 200% Jersey Drive.
To the haters that read my blog...WHY!!??!?! What in the hell is wrong with you? If you don't like me you really have no reason to read my blog. So keep it moving. There are plenty of other spaces on the internet you can park your hate but it won't be here.
So when all these people are hating do they remember all the things I did for them...the times I was there for them...the little things and the big things I did for them. Of course not...cause they are so absorbed in their hateration they are not seeing the forest from the trees.
I wish someone would have some sense and before they say something wrong, stupid, mean, etc. about me they would stop and think...hmmm...I can't really hate on her cause she did X, Y and Z for me. So if you are mad at me for whatever reason...keep it to yourself or be a man or woman about it and come to me with your beef. But don't start public tirades on me because you really don't want me to say all that I hold within.
And if you are going to hate watch what you say, who you say it to and you best be ready to stand on your word as bond to defend it cause bullshit holds no water. The C.I.A. ain't got shit on me and I have been saying that for years. Anything I really want to know, it's not hard for me to find out. So if you think what you are saying to someone about me is in confidence, think again. People love to talk and they really love to talk when something negative is being said.
If you don't want none, don't bring it, cause I promise you I'm not the one you want to get in to a verbal tirade with. I will cut you so quick and so deep you won't even know what hit you...and that's in the verbal sense not the physical. Although, I don't fight...I don't argue...but I damn sure will clock a bitch in the mouth and beat that bitch with a bottle. Don't let the little size fool you I'm 100% Jersey...all day, every day.... and have 200% Jersey Drive.
To the haters that read my blog...WHY!!??!?! What in the hell is wrong with you? If you don't like me you really have no reason to read my blog. So keep it moving. There are plenty of other spaces on the internet you can park your hate but it won't be here.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
To Be an Intern... Again
Remember the good old days of interning at companies we thought we wanted to work at, utilizing skills we had picked up in college and gaining some new ones. Well I am interning...again.
I got an internship at a location I care not to disclose because I haven't exactly told the powers that be that I am in fact interning. I don't want them to think I'm trying to leave...because I'm not. I just want to do something different and get exposure to something else.
What I can tell you about the internship is that it's about 20 hours a week at a magazine and it gives me the opportunity to do research, writing, editing and fact checking. I wanted to do this internship to break up the monotony of my regular job and to get to use and fine tune some skills I already have. This is also giving me exposure to how magazines work. I have always interned at newspapers and their websites so it's nice to see the inner workings of a magazine. Already I noticed that the atmosphere is a lot more laid back except on deadline but deadlines are not every day like they are in newspapers.
My boss is the coolest probably because she is only a few years older than me. They don't treat me like an intern probably because I am a non-traditional intern. I get my own cublicle that is bigger than my desk at the other job. I don't have to share with anyone. They gave me a power book for when I'm out of the office doing research. I have a brand new IMac G5 at my desk. First day they had supplies ready for me and ordered whatever I needed. I have access to a gym that is in the building and my other job does not have a gym nor are they putting a gym in our new building. And best of all I get to spend the majority of my working hours for them at the library. The nerd in me is jumping up and down for joy. It's sad that I like my internship so much more than my regular job but again I think it's largely due to the fact that this is a 180 from what I do day in and day out.
They always taught us in school that the best way to learn and to practice your skills was to intern. So interning is exactly what I'm doing...again.
I got an internship at a location I care not to disclose because I haven't exactly told the powers that be that I am in fact interning. I don't want them to think I'm trying to leave...because I'm not. I just want to do something different and get exposure to something else.
What I can tell you about the internship is that it's about 20 hours a week at a magazine and it gives me the opportunity to do research, writing, editing and fact checking. I wanted to do this internship to break up the monotony of my regular job and to get to use and fine tune some skills I already have. This is also giving me exposure to how magazines work. I have always interned at newspapers and their websites so it's nice to see the inner workings of a magazine. Already I noticed that the atmosphere is a lot more laid back except on deadline but deadlines are not every day like they are in newspapers.
My boss is the coolest probably because she is only a few years older than me. They don't treat me like an intern probably because I am a non-traditional intern. I get my own cublicle that is bigger than my desk at the other job. I don't have to share with anyone. They gave me a power book for when I'm out of the office doing research. I have a brand new IMac G5 at my desk. First day they had supplies ready for me and ordered whatever I needed. I have access to a gym that is in the building and my other job does not have a gym nor are they putting a gym in our new building. And best of all I get to spend the majority of my working hours for them at the library. The nerd in me is jumping up and down for joy. It's sad that I like my internship so much more than my regular job but again I think it's largely due to the fact that this is a 180 from what I do day in and day out.
They always taught us in school that the best way to learn and to practice your skills was to intern. So interning is exactly what I'm doing...again.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Dude, I Killed My Car
My car is a 1997 Mazda 626LX and I have had it for seven years. She has almost 186K miles. I think I have finally killed her.
I thought when I left Philly for ATL about three years ago that my car would never see the north again or do another long road trip. Well three years later I drove her back to NYC. But in an effort to maintain my GA residency I drove her back to ATL. Well I think these road trips have finally killed her.
First, on the trip to NYC at some point the engine cap came off and there was oil all over the inside of the car that I still have yet to get cleaned. My mom was able to get me a new cap.
Then on the trip to ATL the cruise control went out during the last two hours of the ride. Do you know how hard it is to drive when you are tired and pay attention to your speed? The person who invented cruise control must have had people like me in mind who are determined to drive without stopping, except for gas, on long distance trips and who drive on little to no sleep.
So I don't know what to do. Should I get the cruise control fixed? Should I get a new car? I'm tempted to buy another vehicle if all the car companies do that employee pricing program this summer. But then again, I really don't want a car payment. I'm seriously considering going to grad school (that's another blog topic for another day) and a car payment is not in the plan. But the car is not worth more than $1500 so should I really invest any money in to it to get it fixed? I'm also tempted to get rid of the car...just sell it for parts.
The car and I have been through so much. The high mileage and years of ownership tells many stories...my stories. Parking her up here is a pain in the butt but she's my get-around car when I'm in NJ. I'm so torn because I also have an emotional attachment to the car. But I think this was the trip that finally killed her :(
I thought when I left Philly for ATL about three years ago that my car would never see the north again or do another long road trip. Well three years later I drove her back to NYC. But in an effort to maintain my GA residency I drove her back to ATL. Well I think these road trips have finally killed her.
First, on the trip to NYC at some point the engine cap came off and there was oil all over the inside of the car that I still have yet to get cleaned. My mom was able to get me a new cap.
Then on the trip to ATL the cruise control went out during the last two hours of the ride. Do you know how hard it is to drive when you are tired and pay attention to your speed? The person who invented cruise control must have had people like me in mind who are determined to drive without stopping, except for gas, on long distance trips and who drive on little to no sleep.
So I don't know what to do. Should I get the cruise control fixed? Should I get a new car? I'm tempted to buy another vehicle if all the car companies do that employee pricing program this summer. But then again, I really don't want a car payment. I'm seriously considering going to grad school (that's another blog topic for another day) and a car payment is not in the plan. But the car is not worth more than $1500 so should I really invest any money in to it to get it fixed? I'm also tempted to get rid of the car...just sell it for parts.
The car and I have been through so much. The high mileage and years of ownership tells many stories...my stories. Parking her up here is a pain in the butt but she's my get-around car when I'm in NJ. I'm so torn because I also have an emotional attachment to the car. But I think this was the trip that finally killed her :(
Saturday, April 01, 2006
A-T-L
I saw the movie ATL and I'm not going to say it's the best cinema I have ever seen but it sure made me home sick and sentimental for Atlanta. I was tearing up from the start because you know most movies start off by setting the scene. So they showed various places in Atlanta and I just wanted to cry.
I won't spoil the movie but I will point out one HUGE inaccuracy. In one scene they are in a Waffle House and their waitress is Monica (the singer). Her hair is two toned, blond on top and red underneath. As I'm watching this scene I'm like you know nobody that looks that good works in a Waffle House. It's like it is almost a requirement to be busted with a few missing teeth in order to qualify for a position at Waffle House...any position at Waffle House. So that was the biggest inaccuracy that I had a nice laugh to myself about because that was the one thing that was not a true portrayal of Atlanta or of any Waffle House I have ever been too. But what I wouldn't do for a waffle right now...hmmmm.
I have moved around a lot but I have to admit, leaving Atlanta had to be the hardest move I have ever made. It's not like I moved to Podunk, Idaho or something...I moved to the Big Apple BUT home is where your heart is and mine is in Atlanta.
I am so homesick and I was born and raised here. If I could come back to Atlanta every weekend I would but I know that is just ridiculous and unreasonable. I wonder if NYC will ever feel to me like ATL does. I know it's going to take some time because trust I was not immediately in love with Atlanta but it also didn't take me long to fall in love with ATL.
So please go support the movie. Don't bootleg it. Whether you are in Atlanta or not it might make you a little sentimental too.
I won't spoil the movie but I will point out one HUGE inaccuracy. In one scene they are in a Waffle House and their waitress is Monica (the singer). Her hair is two toned, blond on top and red underneath. As I'm watching this scene I'm like you know nobody that looks that good works in a Waffle House. It's like it is almost a requirement to be busted with a few missing teeth in order to qualify for a position at Waffle House...any position at Waffle House. So that was the biggest inaccuracy that I had a nice laugh to myself about because that was the one thing that was not a true portrayal of Atlanta or of any Waffle House I have ever been too. But what I wouldn't do for a waffle right now...hmmmm.
I have moved around a lot but I have to admit, leaving Atlanta had to be the hardest move I have ever made. It's not like I moved to Podunk, Idaho or something...I moved to the Big Apple BUT home is where your heart is and mine is in Atlanta.
I am so homesick and I was born and raised here. If I could come back to Atlanta every weekend I would but I know that is just ridiculous and unreasonable. I wonder if NYC will ever feel to me like ATL does. I know it's going to take some time because trust I was not immediately in love with Atlanta but it also didn't take me long to fall in love with ATL.
So please go support the movie. Don't bootleg it. Whether you are in Atlanta or not it might make you a little sentimental too.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Broken Hearted
What do you do to recover from a broken heart? For me, I focus on me and work on what I'm successful at since relationships I am clearly not successful at. So my latest solution for a broken heart is a new hustle.
That's right, by day I'm working at a magazine and by night I'm working my regular job. I don't have time and I'm far too busy to be lonely or broken hearted. I know y'all are going to tell me that this is probably not the best way to handle the situation and I'm probably going to burn out but it's in my genes.
I was talking to my mom about it and she said I'm just like my dad in that when the going gets tough you work harder and find new avenues to release your energy. That's exactly what my dad would do.
And don't get me wrong, I'm happy for Trinidad Brotha. I'm glad that he has realized his true feelings before things between us went any further. But at the same time, I'm human. I'm not going to say it doesn't hurt...I still miss him...even if in my mind I know it's for the best my heart still yearns to love and to be loved.
I know God is working on me and he ain't done yet. My day of not always being the sacrificial lamb will come...I still have hope...I still believe that God has a divine plan for me.
So for now I'm excited about the new job opportunity. I have never worked at a magazine before so I'll get a chance to see what that is like and gain some experience and also do something I don't do every day in my regular job. I'm also contemplating going back to graduate school and pursing a master's degree online. But that's another topic for another entry.
That's right, by day I'm working at a magazine and by night I'm working my regular job. I don't have time and I'm far too busy to be lonely or broken hearted. I know y'all are going to tell me that this is probably not the best way to handle the situation and I'm probably going to burn out but it's in my genes.
I was talking to my mom about it and she said I'm just like my dad in that when the going gets tough you work harder and find new avenues to release your energy. That's exactly what my dad would do.
And don't get me wrong, I'm happy for Trinidad Brotha. I'm glad that he has realized his true feelings before things between us went any further. But at the same time, I'm human. I'm not going to say it doesn't hurt...I still miss him...even if in my mind I know it's for the best my heart still yearns to love and to be loved.
I know God is working on me and he ain't done yet. My day of not always being the sacrificial lamb will come...I still have hope...I still believe that God has a divine plan for me.
So for now I'm excited about the new job opportunity. I have never worked at a magazine before so I'll get a chance to see what that is like and gain some experience and also do something I don't do every day in my regular job. I'm also contemplating going back to graduate school and pursing a master's degree online. But that's another topic for another entry.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
F.I.L.A.
Forever I Love Atlanta! I'm a FILA all day, every day. I love Atlanta and I don't think I will ever truly be a New Yorker cause my heart is in the ATL.
I'm so excited about seeing the movie. I'm going to be sure to support the film on opening weekend. And I'm not really a T.I. fan but I was so tempted to buy the CD.
When I went down to Atlanta last week I hated to have to leave. I was so excited to get home, cause home is where your heart is, that I made it down there in 12 hours, 30 minutes...no stopping except to get gas. I was beasting the highway. Back in college my friends would call me Richard Petty, Road Warrior, Trooper, Knight Rider, etc. When I'm driven my professional driving skills come out of hibernation.
Two things I had to get when I got down there...some chicken from Harold's and a frosty from Wendy's. You just don't know how hard it is to find a Wendy's up here. And I was so saddened to find out that MY WENDY'S (the one I always went to buy the crib) had closed down. Not like there aren't 5 Wendy's between my house and my old job but that was MY WENDY'S. So I had to pour a little frosty out in honor of the dearly departed.
Surprisingly I didn't make it to Dave & Busters. I didn't even make it to that side of town. But that's aight because when the D&B on 43rd Street opens I will most definitely be a regular.
Unfortunately these trips to ATL have been mainly for business purposes. Although I don't think my friends realize how much I enjoyed our emergency happy hour because I was in town and to watch 24 and TIVO'ed episodes. It felt like I never left. I'll be back this weekend, short business trip again but after this I promise the next visit will be for pleasure.
I would like to fit a visit to the piercing shop and Inserection before I roll out again. I really want my eyebrow re-pierced and possibly my tongue. If I can feasible figure out a way to work and not talk I'll get my tongue done. And the Inserection visit is because I think I'm finally ready to break down and buy some toys...on the real. Cause coming home every night to my DVD's and an adult beverage is just not having the effect it used to have. Might be time to upgrade my leisurely activities. But if I don't get a chance to get the stuff on this trip I'll have Mz.B make a run for me before she comes up for her visit ;) That will be one butterfly and one rabbit, please...and get the crew to put $5 on it.
I'm so excited about seeing the movie. I'm going to be sure to support the film on opening weekend. And I'm not really a T.I. fan but I was so tempted to buy the CD.
When I went down to Atlanta last week I hated to have to leave. I was so excited to get home, cause home is where your heart is, that I made it down there in 12 hours, 30 minutes...no stopping except to get gas. I was beasting the highway. Back in college my friends would call me Richard Petty, Road Warrior, Trooper, Knight Rider, etc. When I'm driven my professional driving skills come out of hibernation.
Two things I had to get when I got down there...some chicken from Harold's and a frosty from Wendy's. You just don't know how hard it is to find a Wendy's up here. And I was so saddened to find out that MY WENDY'S (the one I always went to buy the crib) had closed down. Not like there aren't 5 Wendy's between my house and my old job but that was MY WENDY'S. So I had to pour a little frosty out in honor of the dearly departed.
Surprisingly I didn't make it to Dave & Busters. I didn't even make it to that side of town. But that's aight because when the D&B on 43rd Street opens I will most definitely be a regular.
Unfortunately these trips to ATL have been mainly for business purposes. Although I don't think my friends realize how much I enjoyed our emergency happy hour because I was in town and to watch 24 and TIVO'ed episodes. It felt like I never left. I'll be back this weekend, short business trip again but after this I promise the next visit will be for pleasure.
I would like to fit a visit to the piercing shop and Inserection before I roll out again. I really want my eyebrow re-pierced and possibly my tongue. If I can feasible figure out a way to work and not talk I'll get my tongue done. And the Inserection visit is because I think I'm finally ready to break down and buy some toys...on the real. Cause coming home every night to my DVD's and an adult beverage is just not having the effect it used to have. Might be time to upgrade my leisurely activities. But if I don't get a chance to get the stuff on this trip I'll have Mz.B make a run for me before she comes up for her visit ;) That will be one butterfly and one rabbit, please...and get the crew to put $5 on it.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
That Just Ain't Me
One thing I could never understand was women who let men buy them things...a lot of things...expensive things. That just ain't me.
My feeling is that I don't want to owe no man nothing. I am an independent, financially stable woman that don't need a man to pay for my hair to get done, my nails did, etc. A movie, dinner, date associated activities okay.
But somehow I always date guys that I NEVER try to use for their money but immediately following me they will get with gold diggers that try to take them for their loot. No they don't look like the typical gold diggers but let's look at the logic. Why does a grown ass woman need you to pay for her plane ticket to come and see you? If she really wanted to see you and times were hard she would at least OFFER to pay for half even if you paid for it all. What happened to women offering to pay the tab or at least pay the tip.
I have two exceptions to my own rules. On one occasion when I let a guy pay for a trip. He knew it was a booty trip, I knew it was a booty trip...it was booty, booty, booty, booty, booty rocking everywhere. And the other is my one that got away. I know his financial situation and he means enough to me that I will buy a plane ticket, within a reasonable price bracket, in order to see him because we always have a good time together.
But even when Hurricane would pay for plane tickets for us to visit his family in NOLA or something like that I would pay him back in my own way. Do the laundry, tidy up his apartment, bring home something to eat...I did something...I did my part... whatever it was.
Guys please, open your eyes...do not let these gold digging women take advantage of you. They fugg it up for woman like me who don't want nothing from you but you...meaning 100% of you at your best...your love...your attention...your dedication and devotion...and those things have no monetary value.
My feeling is that I don't want to owe no man nothing. I am an independent, financially stable woman that don't need a man to pay for my hair to get done, my nails did, etc. A movie, dinner, date associated activities okay.
But somehow I always date guys that I NEVER try to use for their money but immediately following me they will get with gold diggers that try to take them for their loot. No they don't look like the typical gold diggers but let's look at the logic. Why does a grown ass woman need you to pay for her plane ticket to come and see you? If she really wanted to see you and times were hard she would at least OFFER to pay for half even if you paid for it all. What happened to women offering to pay the tab or at least pay the tip.
I have two exceptions to my own rules. On one occasion when I let a guy pay for a trip. He knew it was a booty trip, I knew it was a booty trip...it was booty, booty, booty, booty, booty rocking everywhere. And the other is my one that got away. I know his financial situation and he means enough to me that I will buy a plane ticket, within a reasonable price bracket, in order to see him because we always have a good time together.
But even when Hurricane would pay for plane tickets for us to visit his family in NOLA or something like that I would pay him back in my own way. Do the laundry, tidy up his apartment, bring home something to eat...I did something...I did my part... whatever it was.
Guys please, open your eyes...do not let these gold digging women take advantage of you. They fugg it up for woman like me who don't want nothing from you but you...meaning 100% of you at your best...your love...your attention...your dedication and devotion...and those things have no monetary value.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Twenty Years
As I was driving down to Atlanta I had a lot of time to think. And one thing I remembered was Sunday was the 20th anniversary of my father's funeral. TWENTY YEARS...I can't even believe that much time has passed. So much has happened in 20 years.
I think the saddest thing for me is that in 20 years I have not found anyone to love me as much if not more than my daddy. It's just one unsuccessful situation to the next. But as tough as dating and relationships have been I still remain hopeful. God has someone out there for me.
I think the saddest thing for me is that in 20 years I have not found anyone to love me as much if not more than my daddy. It's just one unsuccessful situation to the next. But as tough as dating and relationships have been I still remain hopeful. God has someone out there for me.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Weekend Recap
I actually had a pretty good weekend. It turned out to be way better than I expected it to be.
Friday night I got an email from a friend/former co-worker. He was in town on assignment and wanted to hang out. I was surprised T.B. was kind enough to give him my email address. I really did appreciate that.
After work I met him at a hotel near his to hang out and then we went back to his hotel and talked for hours. It was great. We talked about Atlanta, sports, the future of journalism, etc. We talked so long we didn't even realize how late it was.
He had a rental car so he was kind enough to give me a ride back to my place. As I was getting out the car some guy opens the back passenger door, looks in and then says my bad. We crack up laughing because we seriously thought dude was about to jack us right in front of my building.
Saturday afternoon we met up for a movie...V for Vendetta...and then got something to eat at TGI Fridays before I headed to work.
Saturday night I went home and slept. I was still tired from staying up so late the night before. Actually my body is just tired...mentally, emotionally, physically tired.
Sunday I took my niece to her first Nets game and the Nets blew out the Mavericks so it wasn't as good of a game as I hoped. But at least I got to meet some UNC black alum. It was a black alumni chapter event. Unfortunately the Tar Heels loss...but we can't win them all. I'm still really proud of the team for making it this far. They were a team of freshman and personally the highlight of the season was when we beat Duke at Duke.
After the game I took my niece home and picked up my mom to bring her to my place. She came and spent the night with me. She really helped to get the majority of my unpacking done.
When I took my mom home on Monday I picked up my nephew and brought him back to my apt. He helped me to do some measuring for blinds and for shelves for my closets. And he helped me do some electrical stuff like set up my DVD players and put together some lamps. We watched a movie together and that was cool cause my nephew and I have not chilled or hung out together in years...not really since we were kids. He said he'll help me with more stuff in the coming weeks.
So it wasn't the most eventful weekend but I still really enjoyed it. Just spending time with my family and then getting a surprise visit from my friend.
Next weekend one of my friends from college will be in town for the weekend so we'll probably do lunch on Friday before I go to work. And then Saturday when I get off of work I'm headed to ATL. Unfortunately this won't be a pleasure trip. I'm going to take care of some business pertaining to my house and my car. And I need to get my stuff out of the honey comb hideout as both my sisters are relocating. But I'm still looking forward to the trip.
Road trips always help me to clear my mind and to get things in perspective. It's just me, the car, the highway and my CD's. To be alone with my own thoughts...not sure if that will be a good thing or a bad thing...but I'll be sure to have my paper and pad ready.
Friday night I got an email from a friend/former co-worker. He was in town on assignment and wanted to hang out. I was surprised T.B. was kind enough to give him my email address. I really did appreciate that.
After work I met him at a hotel near his to hang out and then we went back to his hotel and talked for hours. It was great. We talked about Atlanta, sports, the future of journalism, etc. We talked so long we didn't even realize how late it was.
He had a rental car so he was kind enough to give me a ride back to my place. As I was getting out the car some guy opens the back passenger door, looks in and then says my bad. We crack up laughing because we seriously thought dude was about to jack us right in front of my building.
Saturday afternoon we met up for a movie...V for Vendetta...and then got something to eat at TGI Fridays before I headed to work.
Saturday night I went home and slept. I was still tired from staying up so late the night before. Actually my body is just tired...mentally, emotionally, physically tired.
Sunday I took my niece to her first Nets game and the Nets blew out the Mavericks so it wasn't as good of a game as I hoped. But at least I got to meet some UNC black alum. It was a black alumni chapter event. Unfortunately the Tar Heels loss...but we can't win them all. I'm still really proud of the team for making it this far. They were a team of freshman and personally the highlight of the season was when we beat Duke at Duke.
After the game I took my niece home and picked up my mom to bring her to my place. She came and spent the night with me. She really helped to get the majority of my unpacking done.
When I took my mom home on Monday I picked up my nephew and brought him back to my apt. He helped me to do some measuring for blinds and for shelves for my closets. And he helped me do some electrical stuff like set up my DVD players and put together some lamps. We watched a movie together and that was cool cause my nephew and I have not chilled or hung out together in years...not really since we were kids. He said he'll help me with more stuff in the coming weeks.
So it wasn't the most eventful weekend but I still really enjoyed it. Just spending time with my family and then getting a surprise visit from my friend.
Next weekend one of my friends from college will be in town for the weekend so we'll probably do lunch on Friday before I go to work. And then Saturday when I get off of work I'm headed to ATL. Unfortunately this won't be a pleasure trip. I'm going to take care of some business pertaining to my house and my car. And I need to get my stuff out of the honey comb hideout as both my sisters are relocating. But I'm still looking forward to the trip.
Road trips always help me to clear my mind and to get things in perspective. It's just me, the car, the highway and my CD's. To be alone with my own thoughts...not sure if that will be a good thing or a bad thing...but I'll be sure to have my paper and pad ready.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Ultimate Hustler
I met the Ultimate Hustler yesterday. His hustle(s) are so tight that Damon Dash should have had him on his show.
First off it's like this dude doesn't even exist. He claims to have boxed as an amateur and he goes by several alias. I was not able to find anything on this man. Nothing at all under any of the pseudo names he gave me. But I'm not too concerned cause I'm not trying to really be that tight with this guy. Just another interesting person you can run in to in NYC.
So over a fish sandwich and some tea he explained to me how he turned a DVD hustle in to his ultimate empire. I was actually amazed that he was able to turn a slightly illegal hustle (it's not like he's selling drugs) in to some legitimate businesses like a barbershop, a small restaurant and a few properties. He has his DVD hustle, ladies handbag hustle, etc., etc....not trying to give away all the man's secrets. In a way, he is a business man.
But he got me thinking...cause all black people have a hustle. This J-O-B is my legal, taxable hustle but I damn sure wouldn't mind having a hustle on the side to make some of that tax free money that could go straight towards paying down some debts...but there I go being way too money conscious again.
Shout out to all the hustlers striving and surviving...you got your hustle and I have mine.
First off it's like this dude doesn't even exist. He claims to have boxed as an amateur and he goes by several alias. I was not able to find anything on this man. Nothing at all under any of the pseudo names he gave me. But I'm not too concerned cause I'm not trying to really be that tight with this guy. Just another interesting person you can run in to in NYC.
So over a fish sandwich and some tea he explained to me how he turned a DVD hustle in to his ultimate empire. I was actually amazed that he was able to turn a slightly illegal hustle (it's not like he's selling drugs) in to some legitimate businesses like a barbershop, a small restaurant and a few properties. He has his DVD hustle, ladies handbag hustle, etc., etc....not trying to give away all the man's secrets. In a way, he is a business man.
But he got me thinking...cause all black people have a hustle. This J-O-B is my legal, taxable hustle but I damn sure wouldn't mind having a hustle on the side to make some of that tax free money that could go straight towards paying down some debts...but there I go being way too money conscious again.
Shout out to all the hustlers striving and surviving...you got your hustle and I have mine.
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