Category Archive

The littlest Tali will be 3 on Saturday. Three years old. *sigh*

It seems like just yesterday I was holding him for the very first time. He had me at hello. From the moment we brought him home our little family felt complete.

He was the sweetest little baby. He slept on schedule (unlike his older brother who refused to sleep through the night until he was two years old.) He was a good eater. He was the easiest baby ever. A perfect little angel.

Little did I know that my little angel baby would turn out to be a HIGHLY OPINIONATED AND SPIRITED little boy. Ahem. He really did set me up. I fell for the okey doke big time LOL.

I am out tomorrow throwing a fabulous pizza party birthday celebration at Little Tali’s school. I will post pictures in the afternoon. Until then, Happy 3rd Birthday to my little sweetheart. The Taurus. My little HULK. Mommy loves you.

1. I know the real way to say WATER ICE (In Philly, it’s WOODER ICE).

2. I know what really goes on at the Plateau.

3. I know what a “Mummer” is.

4. I can pronounce all of the following words: Bala Cynwyd, Wilkes-Barre, Bryn Mawr and Schuylkill.

5. I can eat a cold soft pretzel for breakfast.

6. I know what a “State Store” is.

7. I have accepted that people keep Holiday decorations up all year long.

8. I know what Summer Sausage and Scrapple are.

9. Despite my intense dislike of their team….I know all of the words to the EAGLES song. UGH!

10. I know what “going down da shore” means.

Yesterday was one of those days. Not only was it Monday, our entire Regional team was in town for one of those “state of the Market” meetings. Our team pulled together a great deck and we each reported out on our areas. Some were more fluff than substance, but they seemed pleased with the overall results.

Today, my babysitter failed to show up. Tali 1 is on Spring Break and I will be working from home on Thursday and Friday but we were counting on her for today and tomorrow. So after calling in some favors, we found a backup and I will try and leave early.

My life is STILL CRAZY.

In other news, my home state of NYC welcomed our new Governor. Despite his backing of Hilary Clinton, I am proud that he gets to run the State. I just hope he’s prepared for the media spotlight that will now be all over him. NY is a tough town when you have enemies. Hell, it’s a tough town when you’re liked!

And in closing, I leave you with THIS.

It’s me…..the day after the conference. I am so exhausted. As the host city and chapter….it was our responsibility to make sure things were running smoothly. I was in charge of doing everything from Food to Flowers and I probably went to bed around 2am and woke up at 5:30 for the last four days.

I finally fell asleep yesterday at 3pm when I got home. I woke up and made dinner for the kids and fell asleep at 9:30pm. Only to wake up and drag myself into work….late. Damn that hour of time we lost.

I will post pictures tonight but for SIP…..here is a picture of Tali 1 from last weekend when I took him to see the Star Wars Exhibit here in Philly.

I am back in Philly and working today before I disappear for my Sorority conference tonight and through the weekend.

I was so happy to see my hubby and the boys last night despite the fact that I had to pack all over again. This week has been crazy.

I just wanted to stop through and give you guys some shou outs:

SIP…..I am saying prayers for you today. Best of luck!!!

Miss B and Nina….I’ll see you both later today. Can’t wait.

Fresh…..If you could see some of these beautiful sorors….man oh man….That’s all I’m gonna say about that. LOL

Roycee & Pro…I wish you were here!

Ms. Lee & BK……What’s up? We have to catch up.

and to Erica B, Los Angelista and Jameil…..GO TEAM PCS (Prince Christian the Small)!!!! My favorite elf did it. He won!!!!!

The haircut is complete. Told you there would be pictures. And forgive the lack of makeup and tired look. Your girl is beat!

One of the very best Valentine’s Day’s I ever had was when I was a sophomore in College. I had just broken up with my cheating boyfriend. I was depressed. I was going crazy from listening to my roommate drone on and on about her new boyfriend and all of their plans.

As I lay on my bed, my phone rang. It was Mama 1969. She called to wish me a Happy V-Day and she asked me what I was doing. “Absolutely nothing.” She laughed and told me that the day was about love. Why couldn’t I go out and love myself?

When I hung up the phone, I called my friend C and told her to get dressed.

“Why, did you find some men?”

“Nope. It’s Valentine’s Day and we love ourselves. We are going out.”

“What?”

“You heard me. We are going out. Get dressed and I mean dressed.”

So we got cute and ventured out into the city. We treated ourselves to a great dinner and laughed at all of the couples. We sat there trying to figure out who would break up in the next six months. We laughed at all of the awkward couples. More than anything, we had fun.

Today is a commercial holiday. The flower, chocolate and card industry will make a killing. The diamond people will inundate you with sappy ads.

Real love starts with self love. And that doesn’t cost anything.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

“We’re up against the conventional thinking that says your ability to lead as president comes from longevity in Washington or proximity to the White House.

But we know that real leadership is about candor and judgment and the ability to rally Americans from all walks of life around a common purpose, a higher purpose.”

photo courtesy of Rhymes with snitch*

I ate my son’s bag of cookies and told him Mr. 1969 did it.

I am calling out sick Tuesday….shhh.

Whenever a certain co-worker calls me…I let the phone go straight  to voicemail.

I had to “Cla.ire Hu.xta.ble” my boss for a brief moment and I think it scared her….cause an hour later, she was in here apologizing. LOL

I just bought the cutest white tuxedo shirt.

I hate when folks are arrogant for NO DAMN REASON…..hmmmpmh….a freakin “legend”in his own mind.

Why can’t my mom ever call and listen to what I am actually saying? Bless her heart

They are so wrong for “sies”. LMAO

Uh….I won a Clar.isoni.c face brush on Afrobella’s site and I can’t wait to get it! Thanks Bella!

And this is for Mingo.

Happy Friday.

Mr.1969 offered to take Tali to the park. It was Sunday, May 8th, 2005. I was scheduled to deliver our second child that Tuesday. I was grateful for the quiet time and looked forward to an afternoon on the couch.

Two hours later, I started to make dinner when the phone rang. As soon as I picked up, I heard the sound no mother ever wants to hear……her child screaming in pain.

“What happened?”

“Tali fell down and I am taking him to the emergency room.”

“Is he hurt?”

“Everything’s okay. I don’t want you to worry. I’ll call you when I get to the hospital.”

The next two hours were unbearable. I was tempted to “do me” and just drive my pregnant self over to the hospital. Mr.1969 called and kept telling me that everything was okay. I could tell that he was trying to not upset me while understanding that I was already upset.

I said a silent prayer and waited. When the key finally turned in the door, my son came in with his tiny three year old arm in a sling. He looked utterly exhausted and scared. As pregnant as I was, I picked him up gently and hugged him.

“Are you okay?”

“I broke my arm.”

I fed him and put him to bed. I made my husband dinner and kept quiet. I resisted every urge I had to blame him for the fall. It is no one’s fault when an accident occurs but the mother instinct was telling me that he should have protected my baby. I looked at my husband and I could tell in his face that he had suffered enough for one day. I kissed him and gave him a hug too.

Two days later, I delivered Mr. Tali the Second.

His big brother came to the hospital that afternoon, we sat him on the bed carefully and he held his brother for the first time.

He was so excited to hold his “baby”, even with one good arm. For the first time since he started talking, he was rendered speechless.

When I finally saw my boys, my sons together for the first time…I knew my life was exactly as it should be. Any doubts I had were promptly replaced by this overwhelming knowledge that all roads were leading me to this point. I had found my purpose.

When your purpose finds you, I hope you are ready to accept it with all of your heart and soul, whatever it may be.  It may not be something expected. It may not be what you asked for. It will however be exactly what you need. I hope you find it in 2008.

I would be remiss if I didn’t bring you the first officially crazy person of 2008. Please READ THIS…go ahead, I’ll wait.

*cue the Jeopardy music*

Okay are you done? Close your mouth.

Let’s go through some of the finer points of this case.

He’s 21 years old with an estranged wife and a girlfriend.

Ladies, if you meet a married man……why are you entertaining any type of relationsip with him? Why, why, why? Run Forrest Run.

He killed her, filleted her and was boiling a pot of ears? He had the rest of her on a plate with a fork stuck in her? WHAT KIND OF CRAZY DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO FILET SOMEONE  OR MAKE EARS SOUP? *sigh*

He then ran back to his estranged wife’s place and attacked her new man.

Who are these people?

I am not taking anything away from the viciousness and sadistic nature of this crime or the poor victim but erra…….

Never mind. Just take your medication in 2008, okay? (You hear me Brit Brit?)

It was an extremely busy weekend for your girl. I did fit in the gym time (OSAG, WHAT?) but probably didn’t eat as well as planned. I baked lemon poppy seed muffins for breakfast and they were GOOD. *sigh*

We ended up with a crew of menfolk at our house for both the Re.dski.ns and Ste.el.ers games. Unfortunately for both teams….they didn’t win and the fans in my house were NOT happy. Poor Tali was waving his terrible towel to no avail.

I informed all of the men that I was sorry for their losses but I was gonna need all of them to not come over on Sunday. My Giants did not need any LOSER VIBES in the 1969 household. LOL

And yes, those New York Football Giants handled Je.ff Ga.rci.a (the so-called Giant killer) on Sunday (sorry Pro). Bye Bye Bucs.

Next up….the C.o.wboys. Now that’s a game!

Anyway, yesterday was my sorority meeting. We are gearing up for a whole lot of celebrating in 2008. As the costs for everything started racking up….I decided that I may need a part time job to wear the pink and green this year. *Sigh* Roycee and Nina….holla at your girl regarding Founders weekend at Howard. I might be planning to attend incogNegro.

Other than that, I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Monday’s question: I am trying to stop procrastinating on work projects What are you trying to stop doing in 2008?

It is cold in Philadelphia. I mean, hats, gloves, scarf and the Nor.th F.ac.e cold. I strolled in to work yesterday in my Pea Coat. It was about 50 degrees. I walked out and the HAWK was in full effect. Wind and down in the 20’s. I guess winter is finally showing it’s behind.

When it’s cold, the strange come out in Philadelphia. The especially eccentric flock to my hotel. It’s typically quiet in January as far as business goes. There aren’t too many conventions that flock to the Northeast in January.

However, our homeless population goes into overdrive and gets extra creative in the Winter. You can stroll in to the bathroom on any random day and find someone trying to take a bath in the sink. No, really. IN THE SINK.

You may catch someone walking by a coffee break and trying to steal all of the food. A big city hotel, with lots of entryways takes lots of cameras and extra security.

Our Sta.r.bu.cks has an individual that stops in daily. We can’t tell the gender but they appear to be female. She has candy red lipstick all over her face, not just on her lips. She wears a matted, dreadlocked blonde wig. She looks very similar to this:

but hey, she needs her latte every morning to face the cold streets. I don’t understand how you can be homeless and spend $4 on a coffee daily but for all I know….she’s sitting on millions.

Then there are the individuals that try to sneak into rooms when the housekeepers are cleaning them. Always fun to bust them and have them removed. 

What’s sad is….I don’t blame them. If I was homeless, I might attempt the same thing. Who doesn’t want to sleep in a nice warm bed?

This weekend, our hotel is donating our used linens and mattresses to a homeless shelter. If we can’t have them stay here, we are going to bring the beds to them. Now if only the shelters were safe….

There is only one thought that consumes me as this weekend approaches. That thought is football. Yes, FOOTBALL.

The Ne.w Engl.and Pat.riots are one game away from completing an unbeaten season. This feat has not been accomplished since the Miami Dolphins did it back in 1972. They went undefeated in the regular season and then again in the playoffs, winning the Superbowl.

The Patriots are a dominating force to behold. Their arsenal of weapons include arguably the best Quarterback in the league and the always dangerous, Mr. Moss at wide receiver.

The last team that has a chance to stop this Juggernaut? You guessed it. My beloved New York Football Giants. *sigh*

Now our season has been good. Not great. Our quarterback is always suspect. Our offense, sketchy. So it’s gonna come down to a prayer and a dream but I don’t know……I have to believe that it can be done. The Giants can do this. If our defense can get to Brady early and often……anything is possible. This is the game to end all games. Osi, Strahan, Plaxico…….let’s get it popping on Sunday.

So don’t call me this weekend. I will need all of my energy to focus on a Giant Victory.

We can do this BIG BLUE!

Just wanted to wish everyone reading this a Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Feliz Navidad and an overall happy and blessed Holiday Season.

Thank you for reading the blog and for all of the wonderful friendships fostered throughout the year.

Enjoy your Holiday and be safe!

and I am sleepy.

I was woken up by my oldest son at 2am. He was struck by a serious stomach virus and without sharing the grimy details…..we were up until 4am. It’s not fun watching your baby hugging a toilet bowl and crying. So after a 3am trip by Mr. 1969 to pick up some Children’s Mylanta…..we all fell asleep at 4.

Only to be woken by the little Tali promptly at 6:30am. Demanding breakfast. *sigh*

Technically, I am working from home today too but our office closes at noon. I have so much to do today. Food preparation. Cleaning. Baking cookies for Santa. Sick child.

I am trying to nurse him back to health. You just can’t be sick on Christmas!!!! If anyone has stomach virus remedies, holla at your girl.

So today, I went to my oldest Tali’s Winter Festival at school. He played the role of narrator and did a great job!

He was so excited to have me in his classroom and we plan to have a great “Mommy and Son” day today. Enjoying the sights and sounds of the Season!

We hope you are all gearing up for a great Holiday and spending it with people you love! We certainly are. Happy Holidays.

Work Habits                                          98

Reading List Book Reports                     98

Overall Reading Performance                  99

Phonic Awareness                                 99

Sight Words                                          99

Overall Writing Performance                    92

Overall Handwriting Performance             95

Overall Social Studies Performance         98

Science                                                99

Mathematics                                         99

French                                                  94

Spanish                                                96

Computer                                              94

Music                                                   95

Health/Physical Education                      95

Yeah…..he takes after his momma

So as I wait for the “yes or no” call from work, I figured I would share some things you may not know about me.

1. I am a fountain of useless information.

I could probably win Jeo.pardy or the Tri.v.ial Pursu.it National Championship. Facts, Trivia, etc…..I know WAY too much.

2. I know the entire roster of the 86 Mets.

What can I say, I was obsessed. I even had a Mets Starter jacket. LOL. (Shouts out to Rafael Santana and Mookie Wilson)

3. I love underwear.

I used to work in Bloo.min.gdale’s in college and developed a taste for fine undergarments. To this day, I would probably buy some nice underwear over clothes. I have to feel cute underneath. And they need to match.

4. I can fix things and build things.

Don’t ask where I get this from but I can make stuff and build stuff. I can even put together things with difficult directions. It’s a skill people!

5. I can eat all seafood and love all seafood except clams.

I am deathly allergic to clams for some reason. Oysters, Mussels…no problem but a clam might kill me.

6. I am terrified of mice.

For real. Jumping on a table terrified. I could probably deal with any other animal. I don’t know why.

7. I embezzled funds from Jun.ior Ach.ieve.ment in High School Economics Class when I was theTreasurer.

I actually confessed this fact to my old Eco Teacher at the reunion and he said “No wonder you’re a business success.” LMAO

Still no word on the job.  Fingers crossed.

Dear Mr. Ke.lly:

May I call you R? Well, R….it seems that you are in the spotlight, once again, for your behavior. One would think that after dragging out and avoiding your trial for a few years now, you would want to lay low and remain undetected.

Not you Sir. No, you decide to go on tour. During this tour, your Divo-like antics have already caused one of your headliners to leave. Did you really need seven dressing rooms, causing Mr. Lipgloss N.e.e-y.o and his dancers to have to resort to dressing in trailers despite the fact that he has had more hits than you this year?

All divo-ness aside, now your longtime publicist has resigned from working for you. In her resignation, she states that you “crossed a professional line” causing her to sever ties with you immediately. What did you do? Allegedly, you had relations with her 19 year old daughter. An individual you had known since she was 4. One who referred to you as ”Uncle”. *insert pearl clutching*

Now the parents of that child either REALLY turned a blind eye to your past behavior or they believed in you wholeheartedly. Either way, they probably regret both right about now.

Nineteen is not illegal, despite you being shy of your 40th birthday.  However, her growing up knowing you as Uncle but now thinking of you as “Daddy” is wrong.

To put it short, you got issues. The kind that only a few showers with “Bubba” at the State Pen will fix.  A few words of advice? Don’t drop the Soap.

Cordially,

Nineteen Sixty Nine

pictures courtesy of Go Fug Yourself and Stereohyped

I was watching an episode of T.im Gu.n.n’s show where he takes someone in desperate need of style help and revamps them.

He has a top ten list of items every woman should have in their closet. Here is his list:

Tim’s 10 Fashion Essentials,

• Basic Black Dress
• Trench Coat
• Classic Dress Pants
• Skirt
• Blazer
• Classic White Shirt
• Day Dress
• Cashmere Sweater
• Jeans
• Sweatsuit Alternative
• Bonus: One Indulgent Trendy Item Under $20

Ladies, do you have these items in your wardrobe? Do you buy investment pieces? Things that will continue to look good season after season? When purchasing these items, you should always buy quality. These are the key pieces that you can build a wardrobe around.

Fellas, here is a list of basics for your wardrobe:

1. A suit (navy or gray) -
2. Black shoes and belt
3. White dress shirt
4. Solid tie or a classic vertical stripe
5. Blue blazer
6. Khakis and jeans
7. Overcoat
8. Briefcase - A briefcase does not necessarily mean a hard case. It can be soft, or messenger bag style.
9. Athletic wear
10. Casual shirt
11. Deconstructed suit - A deconstructed suit is a relaxed look but is pulled together. The pants and blazer can be worn separately.

Are we all venturing out of our college attire? Are we now investing in our look, our style? Are we walking away from the $99 suit and purchasing a quality one that will last a few years?

How many items on these lists are you lacking?

I love my sorors.

Last night was our annual fundraiser, Phi.lly’s M.en Are C.ook.ing.

Our chapter raises money for scholarships for the young people in inner city Philadelphia. Many kids want to go to college but need a little help to get there.

The event was fabulous. We had over 200 gentlemen cooking for the event and it was a lovely display of culinary skills and yes, charm. Those cooks will charm the pants off ya.

So today I am totally recuperating but I want to congratulate my Soror Ta.ryn, who followed in my footsteps and chaired last night’s event. Not only did she do a great job, she looked fabulous doing it. Of course, she’s a number ten like me, so there was never any doubt!

Here’s the annual picture of the Perfect Tens (Jacky Jack, 1969, Ta.ryn and Ms. Cooper)……..enjoy the weekend.

Morning Neighbors.

I am at work and the “M” button on my keyboard just popped off. It could be worse right? It could be the “E” button. Let’s see how long it will take my I.T. Professional (who isn’t even in yet) to come up and fix this. Let’s also count how many “M”’s I end up typing during that time. ( We’re already at 9…see?)

Anyway, this week is Thanksgiving week. We are all going to be forced to think of things we should be thankful for. Now I know you all say thanks everyday for what you have. Some of you, it may be harder to tell cause you always seem a tad bit angry (love you Zed) but I am sure that you realize, despite the daily trials and tribulations….your life beats a lot of other folks.

You already know the things I am thankful for so instead I want to name my current favorite TV shows that make me happy. My small pleasures if you will that keep me sane.

1. Pr.oject Run.way

I couldn’t love a show more if I tried. Every episode amazes me.

From the first episode where they had to make a cocktail dress  out of things in the supermarket. (I give you Au.stin Sca.rlett’s winning corn husk dress)

To the fierceness of Mi.cheal Knig.ht’s dress made out of coffee filters…

This show is about talent and skill. Creativity under pressure. If you love Fashion….this one is for you.

2. De.xter

If you have Showt.ime, you have got to check this show out. Dexte.r is a Crime Scene Investigator in Miami. His department is trying to find a serial killer named the Bay Harbor Butcher.

The catch? De.xter is the Bay Harbor Butcher. He’s a serial killer.

Does it get any better than this? Great writing, outrageous plots and can he continue to thwart his colleagues as they get closer to finding out who he is? Great TV.

3. LO.ST

I can’t even explain how long I will wait for the return of the best show on TV. All I can say is get your DVD’s and catch up while you still have time. L.OST is unlike anything else on tv. A show I can’t even explain…..LOL

What are your tv obsessions?

Wednesday’s are my busiest days in the office. I have to attend various meetings and report out on where we stand, how we did, etc. It gets pretty hectic.

My 10am meeting ran until 11:45am. UGH. After that, I breezed through the cafeteria trying to grab something quick and I hear this loud voice shouting my name from across the room. I turn and the General Manager of the Hotel is calling me. He asks me to come and talk to him after I eat.

My whole meal is ruined. I am on edge trying to backtrack and think if I did something wrong. After my soup and salad, I walk over to his office.

Me: Hey boss, you wanted to see me?

GM: Come on in……”shut the door”. (The words every employee hates to hear from the boss.)

Me: What’s up?

GM: I don’t know if you heard but Ann is leaving. Would you be interested in her job?

Me: Absolutely.

GM: I thought about it and you are my pick. If you want it, the job would be yours. It’s not officially posted yet. Think about it and let me know tomorrow.

So folks, a new opportunity has fallen in my lap. I’ve only been in this job for a year. I don’t love what I do but I took it as a step towards the next job…..I just didn’t think it would happen this quickly.

I am scheduled to talk to the RVP today about the position. After that, I will probably post for it. Pray for your girl!

So on Friday, Tali 1 got his month end report. My son “the Genius” scored eight 99’s, three 95’s and one 92. I am so proud of him.

He also scored 7, yes, I said seven, goals in his last soccer game on Saturday and participated in the All Star game on Sunday.

I am so proud of my little man for all of his hard work.

As for Tali 2, he is following in his brother’s footsteps. He is counting by threes, tens and fives. He can spell his name and he can say his birthday. All this for a two and a half year old. Big stuff.

Needless to say, we ran around all weekend.

The highlights:

Discovering that the RED cups are back at Starbucks which means one thing for 1969…..the return of Gingerbread. I love Starbucks Gingerbread. It’s an obsession.

Working out and seeing my eye candy at the gym but returning home to my hot husband. LOL

Buying two of my sons Christmas presents and hiding them.

How was your weekend? Getting ready for Thanksgiving? Holiday shopping? What did you do?

**and since I just heard. Rest in Peace to Kanye and his family for the loss. So sorry to hear this.”

and lastly, for Brooklyn…..and I’m OUT! LOL

Since the crew is on a dedication roll today….I’mma smooth it out on the R&B tip….   

For Fresh…..REST IN PEACE C!

It’s Friday and I am feeling like vibing out in my office. Here is the song of the day.

This one’s for you Roycee! Enjoy the weekend people.

You ever wake up, feeling good? Step out of bed with a smile….workout early, get dressed in a cute outfit, kids wake up in a good mood….

Everything seems to be going your way. You are early for a change, walk out to catch your bus and it is on time! Life is good on this beautiful Monday morning.

Just as you board the bus and catch your favorite seat

SSSSCCCCCRREEEEECCCCCHHHH.  *Dead Stop*

Your sunshine turns to rain.

To the lovely woman who got on the bus this morning. Dressed impeccably in a business suit, power heels and a sharp azz trench coat…..only to have THIS on her head. Thanks….thanks for ruining my day.

So yesterday, we wake up for Tali’s soccer match. The game starts at 9am and I ended up being in charge of snacks. What the heck do you bring to a 9am game? Anyway, I picked up pumpkin, cranberry nut and apple mini muffins, fresh fruit and juices and made it to the field by 8:45am. Did I mention it was cold as heck and raining? Yeah, exactly.

I come back home and start cooking because the hubby’s relatives will be showing up to drop off the baby he volunteered us to babysit and I have to have some lunch prepared. I make cabbage, macaroni and cheese and fry some chicken. I also end up baking cupcakes for the kids. The relatives show up and drop off the baby.

Now folks, this baby is my Brother in law’s first grandchild. The daughter lives with them so you can imagine how spoiled the baby is. Nothing wrong with that….love is love. But it ain’t cute that the baby “can’t” sleep unless he is in the bed with someone. He “likes” his formula to be a certain temperature, he likes to eat every hour…etc. When they gave me their list of rules….WHEW. Now, I try to adhere to all parents rules but damn….this is a 4 month old baby. Who’s in charge here?

So needless to say, last night, little Mr. Man slept quite soundly in Tali’s crib…ALONE. He did not stay in somebody’s arms all day and he was as pleasant as could be. He ate more food every three hours and slept all night long. No hourly feedings in the middle of the night.

At 3pm today, I have a sorority meeting and guess what? I think I may miss my first meeting for the year. 1969 needs a minute to breathe. So don’t tell anyone but I will be home watching football eating the rest of my cupcakes and eating some seafood jambalaya.

Even the Big Guy upstairs rested on the 7th day.

Happy Halloween to my spooky friends.

I am rocking the black slacks with an orange cowlneck turtleneck today. We are eating candy miniatures for breakfast. You know, regressing back to when we were kids.

My tiny Ninja left the house this morning. He was NOT in a good mood. LOL

The big Ninja is having a “Fall Festival” at school today. No costumes until tonight so pictures will be up tomorrow.

Leaving work early for trick or treating so no posting today.

Enjoy and remember, if you don’t have a costume, you get NO CANDY from the 1969 house!

I got an email from a blogger who says that she likes all of the latest looks but can’t afford the big named brands. I decided to do a “Look for Less” post for her with things under $150 bucks for the Fall. This one’s for you Mama…..

I am loving this coat from the G.A.P. for $128. How perfect is this as a car coat? Love the funnel neck!!!

Loving the wide legged Ol.d N.A.vy jeans. $34.50? Can’t beat em.

Ma.xx N.Y Patent Leather Bowling Satchel in Honey…$65.

Psst….the Cobalt Patent is sharp too…

Calvi.n K.lei.n dolman sleeved cardigan…$79 bucks. Cute with jeans.

 Top that off with your new suede pumps from B.a.n.dolino at $69 bucks.

So Mama….I say all this to say that you don’t have to spend a lot to rock the latest looks. If all that fails, head to TJ. Ma.xx or Loehm.ann’s or Stein.Mart and you can find all of the latest on the low. Good luck with the fall shopping.

By far, the most interesting job to have in the building is in Hotel Security. Our security officers have military or police experience. These guys are phenomenal and handle their business like no one’s business.

This morning the hotel is buzzing about a minor incident we had yesterday. It seems a gentleman called Hotel security to complain that his laptop had been stolen from his room while he was out attending a conference. Now the electronic keys that we use enables security to run a report of anyone that has utilized the guest keys at anytime. So they ran the key report for his room and the only person that had been in during the day was him. Housekeeping had not yet entered the room to service it.

The guest, Mr. uh…Smith insisted that his laptop was stolen and that he would be calling the police and getting his corporate office involved after he was done attending the day’s meeting.

Our security team went into action.

They began reviewing the hotel surveillance cameras. For those that don’t know, we have camera’s everywhere except the guest rooms. EVERYWHERE. The camera’s were able to pick the guest up, leaving the hotel for the evening.  Mr. Smith returned to the hotel with a male companion. Once they entered the elevator, they were observed in the HEAVY stages of making out. Mr. Smith and his companion then entered his guest room for several hours. The companion was seen leaving the guest room at approximately 3am with the laptop under his arm.

Mr. Smith contacts the head of security at 5pm to demand payment for his lost laptop. Security once again asks Mr. Smith if he had any overnight guests in his room that could have possibly taken the laptop.

He assures them that it had to be a hotel employee. Security lets Mr. Smith know that they were able to retrive the security footage from the previous night and it seems that Mr. Smith had a male companion that he seemed to know extremely well based on the elevator footage.

Mr. Smith starts to look nervous.

They ask him if he would like to view the footage because the gentleman in question did leave the room with the laptop in hand.

Mr. Smith breaks down. Tells Security that he picked up a gentleman at a bar and brought him home. He was scared to report the laptop stolen to his company for fear of having to explain.

See…..and this man would have had an innocent housekeeper charged for his shenanigans. Thank God for Security.

Rapper NAS is about to release his new cd entitled “Nigga”. Nas, the very same person who discussed the death of Hip Hop with his last release.

I am sure that he will have placed a spin on this creative title by the time he is doing press, but damn…..I expect more from Nas. One of the best lyricists in the game and this is the best that he can come up with?

I am sure he is trying to make some sort of point, or at the very least, get folks outraged so he can sell more units. Is he forgetting that a large group of his fans consists of young whyte kids? And who is going to walk up in the store and say “Let me get that Nigga CD”? *sigh*

And yes, I grew up with NWA and BWP and folks throwing around these phrases hoping to empower or outrage. As you can see, it hasn’t really worked.

So maybe NAS will have a new spin to put on **yawn** being called a Nigga. Whatever it is, I ain’t buying it. He was right…HIP HOP is dead.

Many of you may know this individual. Highly intelligent, slightly feisty, down to earth.

She travels the blogosphere….doing meetups, dazzling folks with her sense of style and her wit. Always has a few wise words to share. A valuable opinion on the topic at hand.

Yes, you KNOW who I am talking about.

Well, as of today, we bloggers are uniting behind this cause…..

OnefromPhilly……………..it is about damned time you got yourself a blog. No more comment freeloading. You are far too interesting a creature for us to not be all in your business.

Who’s with me?

(C) This has been another 1969 Public Service Announcement

We lost another sister.

This young lady graduated college, was starting her career as a Pharmaceutical Sales Rep. Bright, charming and living a life ripe with opportunity.

A few weeks ago, she filed for a restraining order against a man she had dated. Today, her body turned up. Another life possibly lost to violence.

Ladies, if you are in a relationship and you don’t feel safe. Your heart is restless. You walk around on eggshells. Please sit down and think about what you are doing. Is your life worth it?

You are probably living a life bright with promise and opportunity too. Don’t allow someone else to extinguish your flame.

Rest in Peace Ms. Franklin.

The morning unfolded as it usually does. I arrived at work, coffee in hand and logged on. I struggled to find something to write about.

I clicked on my blog only to find that the entire template had vanished. I was left with just my words . Words in black and white.

I tried in vain to find a new template but everytime I cut and pasted, it wouldn’t work in Blogger. Several bloggers called me and tried to assist but it still wouldn’t save.

Perhaps it’s a sign. A time to change my surroundings and start fresh? Maybe God is telling me to branch out and do something a little different?

Whatever it is, I have found some new space. I’m learning a new set of rules and trying to get cozy in new surroundings.

I hope you will continue to stop by and check on my crazy life.

You know what they say…..the Grass is always Greener….

Welcome to the future of Nineteen Sixty Nine. 

Bear with me. My whole template is out of whack and I may be changing the scenery.
I have to go find a background I can live with.

This has been an interesting week.

*I have had to deal with a Shawty at my job.

*I have been chosen to plan and execute a Regional Meeting in three weeks.

*My son started Kindergarten and his soccer schedule starts tonight.

*Two rappers with huge egos faked a rivalry to sell lots of records.

*We learned that Ms. Porter was not the only chick in D.iddy’s arsenal that was sitting around for over ten years making babies. (go.ogle Sar.ah Cha.pman) They both fell for the okey doke. That man is a P.I.M.P

*A former pop star watched her star fade.

*I decided to not wear anymore babydoll shirts after the coffee lady asked me if I was pregnant.

Yup, it’s a wrap. Have a nice weekend.

I want to have the class of Michelle

The Clout of Opra.h

The Classic Beauty of Iman

The Intelligence of Lani

The Will of Assata

The voice of Heather

The Iconic Style of Naomi

Disclaimer: This post may offend the vertically challenged. Any thoughts or observations are strictly the tainted views of Ms. 1969 based on her personal experiences. Any resemblence to you or your life are purely coincidental.

I work with a lot of men. In my past 8 years with this company…I have come to make certain observations regarding men of a “shorter” stature. I would now like to share these with you.

1. Short men in the business world tend to overestimate their importance.
It’s almost like they need to let you know their existence is vital to make themselves feel taller. **reference: Napoleon**

2. Short men in the business world tend to speak down to everyone around them.
Talking down to co-workers = Ego Boost
Since their height can’t get a boost, why not their egos? **reference: Ka.nye W.est**

3. Short men in the business world seem to be experts at EVERYTHING and delight in sharing their knowledge depsite a lack of interest from related parties.
Perhaps the further distance from the quality air over time has made their brains evolve slightly ahead of their taller counterparts? **reference: George Jefferson, of The Jeffersons**

4. Short men in the business world are angry at women.
Perhaps hearing “You’re cute but too short.” in their personal lives have made them bitter? **reference: John L.egend**

5. Short men in the business world can be ruthless and will do anything to get noticed.
Perhaps constantly being looked over in other arenas has forced them to develop their other senses and skills. Watch your back. They will do what it takes to win and get what they want. **reference: Jermain.e D.upri**

1969 works with a short man.

This has been a 1969 public service announcement (c)

There is nothing I could write that would be as important as remembering our loved ones that perished on this day six years ago.

I was pregnant with my first child when the attacks happened. I watched when the second plane crashed into the Towers. I watched as people jumped out of the windows.
I watched as the plane crashed into the Pentagon, in the field in Pennsylvania.
I saw the towers, once the symbols of fortitude, collapse and disappear from the New York City skyline.

I gasped when I realized the towers were collapsing on top of one of our Hotels, where we ended up losing three brave individuals who had gone back after the evacuation to make sure all the guests were out safely.

I waited all day to hear from my mother, my brother. I rejoiced that they made it home safely. My brother walked from midtown Manhattan all the way to Brooklyn. He practically carried an old woman across the Brooklyn Bridge and it took him 8 hours, but he made it home.

And lastly, I can never forget, my wonderful and brave New Yorkers. On that day, we solidified our status as the greatest city in the world. Magnified by our actions and the strength we displayed. I have never been more proud to be a New Yorker.

Rest in Peace to the casualties, the victims of 9/11.

I will never forget.

9/11/2001

Just got into the office. I am happy to report that no tears were shed as we left our oldest son in the hands of total strangers now responsible for his daily well-being

I did fight off a few tears as I helped my son get dressed in his new uniform. I thought about the fact that this may be one of the last times I actually help him get dressed. The tears started to form, but I fought them off and was victorious.

He walked into his new school a little anxious but extremely excited. We’ll see how he feels at 4pm when I pick him up.

As for the rest of the weekend, I attended my favorite cousin’s wedding on Saturday.
It was a beautiful wedding and I got to spend time with my entire family (without kids). We danced, consumed lots of alcohol and ate way too much. A good time indeed.

Sunday…football and lots of it. I knew going into the season that my Giants were going to have an uphill battle and so…*gasp* I did not pick them to win against Dallas. Yes, we may have lost our running back too. This is going to be one tough season for us. The loss of Tiki is going to really be felt. The good side? Eli had a good game

As for those EAGLES? LMAO. I love coming to work after an Eagles loss….everyone is quiet.

Oh yeah….and Britney S.pears is DONE. Whatever she called that performance last night was HORRIBLE. Her career is done. And Sarah S.ilver.man? Okay, I get it. Her comedic schtick is all about insulting people. However, to say that Brit.ney’s two kids are “mistakes” was so not appropriate. If a b.lack com.edian had made that joke???? Yup…..we would all be reading about it this morning on CNN.

PEACE!

Me: Son, you know Christmas is coming right?

Tali: It is?

Me: Yup. Do you know what you want for Christmas?

Tali: YES!!! I want a Tempurpedic.

Me: **crickets** A What?

Tali: A Tempurpedic.

Me: The Mattress?

Tali: Yes! Mom, it’s so cool. I can jump on it and my juice won’t fall. And you can sleep on one side and I can jump on the other side and you won’t wake up.

Me: OH-KAY. Uh, is there anything else you want?

Tali: Um…a big Transformer?

Me: **wipes forehead in relief** okay…that’s more like it.

Dear Kim:

May I call you Kim? I may not know you, but your story strikes a chord with me. I know so many women that are caught up in a similar situation and I feel that it must be addressed.

Over the weekend, you were spotted back in the arms of your ex-boyfriend at his annual party in the Hamptons. In addition, a close friend of mine who is also a close friend of yours claims that you have taken him back due to his current promise of marriage and you were seen “canoodling” with him throughout the party and then spent the night with him “allegedly”.

Now I know folks going through this same situation and yes, at least you stand to gain some money.

However, it seems that you have sold your self-respect to the highest bidder. As a mother, I implore you to think about the message you are sending to your children. To continually allow a man to cheat and then take him back leads to a dead end.

The man obviously has lost respect for you. You can lie to yourself but you have damaged your own self-worth.

Make that clean start, don’t allow him to throw in the claims of “marriage”. You were good enough to sit up in the house and make babies for him. To look pretty at the parties in your nice dresses. To play house with. But he has proven time and again that he is not willing to stop living the single life for you. Your feelings are not at the forefront of his mind when he is spending time at the Riviera.

Even if he does marry you, what then? Like I said, I don’t know you, but I know that enough is enough. Start over and live your life. Leave for good, leave for your children. Teach them that mommy is putting herself and their happiness before the money. Good luck….you’re gonna need it.

I have been waiting for this day for YEARS.

Maxwell just released a snippet of one of his new songs on his myspace page.

If you are a fan, check it out.

And I have lyrics:

Pretty Wings Lyrics

written and produced by
hod david and musze

time will bring the real end of our trial
one day they’ll be no remnants
no trace no residual feelings within ya..
one day u won’t remember me

yo face will be the reason i smile
but i will not see what i can not have forever
i’ll always love ya i hope u feel the same

oh u played me dirty your game was so bad
u toyed with my affliction had to fill out my prescription
found the remedy i had to set u free

away from me
to see clearly the way that love can be
when u are not with me
i had to leave, i have to live
i had to lead, i had to live

if i cant have u let love set u free
to fly yo pretty wings around
pretty wings your pretty wings
your pretty wings around

8:31-1:38-8:31

For me, the Summer is officially over. Back to re-focusing on the rest of the year.
All of my activities and personal committments reconvene and I have to dust the Wonder Woman crown off and get ready to leap tall buildings and save the universe.

Next Monday, my big Tali goes back to school. My sorority meetings enjoyed a nice summer break but we are off our hiatus and I will be chairing a few new committees.

Work starts to get busier, more projects due as we start to focus on 2008. I also have projects to do at home that fell by the wayside months ago.

Sometimes, I need to feel like I am under pressure because then I will actually get things done. You know, that college feeling. Like when you waited all semester and slacked off and then had to pull an all-nighter to hand in that last minute paper that was like 70% of your grade? LOL

I think I thrive under pressure and deadlines. I really should be more proactive with my life. However, when I do plan something, my plans always get cast aside by some unscheduled turn of events. I now leave well enough alone and just prepare for the onslaught.

No real post today…just feeling the turn of the tides as fall approaches. Hope you enjoyed a great Labor Day weekend.

Today is the day that my home, the beautiful twin islands of Trinidad & Tobago celebrate Independence Day. Big Up to Da Trini Massive

Enjoy the day and to all of my family back home….I love you. Enjoy de jump up for meh.

When next we speak, the fall will be upon us…the kids will be back in school and before we know it…cold weather.

Enjoy the weekend, make the most of the three days off. Swim, Eat, Lounge.

A few housekeeping notes….

Best of Luck to my Soror Royce’s Daughter as she prepares to run her marathon. Because she is a strong woman and has trained hard for this….I know she will emerge victorious. Good luck Roycee!

I also want to shout out a very special individual. HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the beautiful, dynamic, sassy and sweet MISS LEE. I can’t even begin to put into words how much I love me some Miss Lee. She is a talented writer and a bad azz Brooklyn chick. Enjoy your special day and this one’s for you Missy! They Can’t Knock The Hustle…keep shining!

I was a new employee at my hotel and I had recently left one major Hotel chain and had started at another. Same stuff but the corporate climate was very different.

I had been in the job a month and so far was enjoying the change.

Coming down the hallway, I see the General Manager. I stop and say hello and he starts walking with me. We both get on the elevator and as we descend to the Executive offices he says….

“So, How is your period looking this month?”

**CRICKETS**

For a solid minute, I was dead quiet. In my head, I was like…WHAT THE FUDGE DID THIS MAN JUST ASK ME? Then my mind started racing and I started thinking….IS THIS SEXUAL HARRASSMENT, DAMN, I JUST GOT HERE?

Finally a lightbulb went off and I remembered that at my old company, we called the end of the booking cycle “Month End”. Here at XYZ Hotels, they call it “Period End”.

Whew.

“My Period looks like it’s turning out to be a good one.”

I went downstairs and told my Director of Sales what happened and she was in tears…”At least you didn’t smack him.” LOL

No post today. My team at work is headed to see the TUT exhibit followed by lunch and lots of cocktails.

Have a fabulous day and I will holla at you tomorrow blog fam.

All along I kept saying that Michael Vick needed Jesus, now he says he has found Him.
Problem solved.

Senator Larry. Cr.aig from Idaho, a staunch Republican who voted against same sex marriage and several other gay rights issues was found engaging in same sex activities in a men’s restroom. Ahem. To quote Mama Sixty…..GOD DON’T LIKE UGLY.

Scott B.aio is 45 and single but his girlfriend is knocked up so he better get over those committment issues fast.

If arsonists set that fire in Greece, they need their azzes locked the eff up.

Both Se.rena and Ve.nus won their matches after the tribute to Althea Gibson at the US Open. How appropriate.

AND THE METS BETTER NOT LOSE TO THE PHILLIES TONIGHT.

I woke up on Sunday morning with a goal. It was 6am and I got dressed. I laced up the sneakers, slathered on some sunscreen and got in my car. I drove to East. F.alls and parked my car and from there I hit the ground running.

I ran alongside my favorite stretch of road in Philadelphia. I was determined to tackle “The Drive”.

I love K.elly D.rive. The drive stretches all along the Sch.uyll.kil River and winds next to Boathouse Row and ultimately leads to the Art Museum (you know, where Rocky runs up the stairs). It is serene and peaceful and on this day….I decided to talk myself out of the “I Can’t Do it” attitude and force myself to try.

My IPod was playing and I stopped thinking and just ran. Up to now, I had only run maybe two miles at best….and always on a treadmill at the gym.

On Sunday, I ended up doing a personal best for me….4 miles. I was utterly exhausted. But I felt great. Sometimes, I have to stop thinking so much. I think myself out of situations I can physically handle. I need to trust myself to just live. Just do it (as the sneaker giant says).

I need to just run.

My friend Liz tagged me (not THAT kind of tag) and I will now present to you:

TEN THINGS I LIKE ABOUT ME

1. I am a great cook. Yes, 1969 can throw down in the kitchen. I am one of those people that cooks without recipes. I go to restaurants, taste something and come home and make it. Friends always want to come over to eat or they ask me to teach them how to cook. It’s one of my most favorite things about myself and I have to thank my Grandmother, My Mother and my five aunts and one uncle….all great cooks.
(I am not a baker though….shhh!)

2. I am great with people. I can walk into a room with all different kinds of people and make myself at home. I love meeting new folks, talking to them and can probably strike up a conversation with almost anyone.

3. I am a “boy” mom. Some moms are perfect for girls. They shop, get their nails done, etc. I am most definitely meant to have boys. I love football, I play in the dirt and I wrestle. My son learned to play baseball from me taking him out every night and teaching him how to hold a bat and pitching him balls. He can now hit like a champ.

4. As much as I like being a tomboy, I love getting girly. I love shopping, pedicures, new purses and shoes. I live for fashion and love to talk style. I think women that can be sophisticated and elegant but still rock a ponytail and some sweats are the hotness.

5. I can fix things. I can put things together. I can hang drapes, install drywall, etc. I am great with electronics and gadgets. I am the female Bob Villa.

6. I love the fact that I am healthier than ever at 38. I take care of myself. I plan to be around, GOD WILLING, for a long time.

7.I love my nose. It’s cute.

8. I love my ability to roll out of the Boardroom and then roll through the hood. Many people would never meet me and know where I come from or what I am capable of.
I am proud to be from brooklyn….that tough upbringing has grounded me and prepared me for almost any challenge I could ever face.

9. I love being Caribbean. Our people are beautiful. Our culture is diverse. Our food is extraordinary. Our history is proud. I love going home to Trinidad and feeling that sense of pride and HOME.

10. The thing I love about myself the most is my ability to persevere despite any obstacle. I am so hard on myself but somehow I manage to wake up everyday and keep trying. I have faith in God and in myself that I will do my best. Sometimes my best isn’t good enough. Sometimes, it downright sucks…..but I can’t stop, won’t stop. I enjoy my life. I love my family. I am grateful for every single day that I get to breathe. I never let the negative forces take over. I stay out of those holes. It’s so easy to be “woe is me”. I am like most of you….a product of a single mom, no father, financially unstable upbringing, nearly evicted more times than I can count, struggled through bad relationships, fell in love only to have that person die, etc….I could go on and on….but I am here. I never gave up. I always believed that God has a plan. No matter what has been thrown at me….I keep the faith and keep it moving. Thanks me, I love you man!

I returned to the office only to be thrown in the middle of some office drama. WHY ME?

Why can’t people just come to work and do their jobs? I don’t feel like having to write anyone up on my first day back. I don’t feel like spending half the day dealing with childish, petty shyt. Just focus on the task at hand. For me, trouble always comes when you are focused on everything BUT your job.

So, because I work for more than one hotel (as do my team members), our review gets sent to our shareholders and they can comment on the survey anonymously. After that, we sit down and review their feedback.

Well, one employee wants to tell me who her survey should be sent to. Uh….no.
I am going to select who gets the survey. I know you are buddy, buddy with the Director of Sales over there but I am sending your review to the General Manager. I want objective feedback not all praise and hugs. I want to hear what kind of job you are doing and not just from a friend of yours.

So she goes behind my back and calls corporate to get some folks added to the survey without my authorization…..so uh….corporate calls guess who? ME.

It ain’t rocket science sister. Someone is going to have to authorize it. Who did you think they would call?

So anyway, 1969 is over here dealing with some “issues”. After I kick some butt, I will get a real post out tomorrow.