tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12594367780475391872024-03-06T02:26:53.311-05:00LIFE MISSIONSWatch me as I take on each mission, each opportunity, that God has laid out for me.Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-61712528626168700982011-04-18T14:42:00.000-04:002011-04-18T14:42:47.634-04:00I Squeemed and I Saw Myself Again!!!Yesterday (Sunday), I decided to ditch the little girl child and go off by myself. I went to take back some pants I had bought for her, but honestly, I did not want to take her whining, moody ass with me. That child is a pain and sometimes I wanna slap the taste out of her mouth. <br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">*Yes your honor, I understand she can no longer taste the candy she consumes, but she so deserved it!</span></i><br />
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Anyway, so I went to pick up some stuff for ME for a change. The kids and I are going to Myrtle Beach this coming Friday with my sister and niece, and I have nothing to wear. <br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">*Really, 3 pairs of capris are the only summer clothes I have. Last year, I wasn't into summer too much. </span></i><br />
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I bought myself 4 pairs of flat sandals at the first store for a total of $21. Nice!!!<br />
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I went to Nine West and bought a pair of every day flat shoes and a pair of sexy caramel sandals with a 4-inch heel. Grand total $28. Score!!!<br />
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I went to another store and bought myself one of those fake leather bomber jackets in caramel for $25. Nice again!<br />
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I bought myself a nightie with thong and 2 bra & panty sets from another store. Nice indeed!<br />
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Then, I went to Fashion to Figure. Now this store is a plus size fashion store that isn't dark, or crowded and I honestly love the layout. Very open and inviting. They carry colorful, trendy clothes that women of different ages can be comfortable in. At first, I was a little overwhelmed because I have only been in there lately to window shop, because I was broke. But yesterday, I actually had money to spend.<br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">*We'll talk about how I have no job now but have more disposable cash another time! God is good!</span></i><br />
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I made my rounds and picked up eight pieces to try on. Only six are allowed in the dressing room so I kept the others outside. I tried on everything and I was utterly disappointed in what I saw. Not in the clothes, but in how sorry I looked in the clothes, in the mirror. When you don't have a full length mirror at home, you can live in illusion (and denial). Not in the dressing room. Nuh uh!! That bad boy shows everything, EVERYTHANG!!!! I made myself mad and walked out and only kept one of the dresses I tried on (because it is a maxi dress and shows nothing).<br />
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But, instead of leaving the store like normal, I decided to make another round and pick up some other styles. The salesgirl, Imani, had asked me if I wanted to try on this "Squeem" thing and I had said yes, but then she went on break. I tried on the new picks and liked them better and decided to get them. Just when I was looking at the jewelry and getting ready to check out, another salesgirl came up and asked if I still wanted to try the "Squeem". I was hesitant but decided to go in the dressing room one more time. She got it and put the darned thing on me and then went to get me some dresses to put on with it. When I tried on those dresses, I looked amazing. That contraption, of course, is a freaking corset but let me tell you, I looked hot and I haven't seen Hot Charisse in a very long time. That heifer has been hiding for so long that I had forgotten all about her. <br />
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I feel in love with her yesterday and she is getting used to me again. LOL Long story short, I bought the corset, and other choices, and put a few of those dresses on layaway. Yeah, that's how good I looked.<br />
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A corset helped me see that I can indeed be sexy and stop acting like my days are numbered. I'm only 40. Sheesh, I've got years of hotness left and I am going to take advantage of them. Shaun T and I had a good workout today and he is my friend again too.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">See, good things do happen when God is working for your good!</span><br />
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xoxo<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-77148974287953285912011-04-06T10:20:00.000-04:002011-04-06T10:20:30.758-04:00Oh How The Tides Have Turned<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Do you know how awesome GOD is? I hope you do but let me tell you, He is awesome indeed! He speaks when you are ready to listen and when you do listen, you must heed His word.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">For the past 3 months, I have been listening to God and the things I have heard have prepared me for a future that I know will be amazing because I trust Him. You all know that I have been working out but what I didn't get a chance to tell you was how my job situation was. That place was getting more and more stressful. I was given 5 new responsibilities in 4 months with little preparation or explanation. I handled them well, but was not given even a "Thank You" or a "Good work". Add to that a $0.24 raise (yes 24 cents) and you have one unhappy camper in me. Now, let me be the first to tell you that there are times when I totally slacked but when God started telling me to step up my game, I listened.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Here is what I was being told by the Father:</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-It's time for a change.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-Work on your appearance, presentation is everything.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-Tie up the loose ends at work so that everything will be organized when you leave.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-If you want a managerial position, you have to act like a manager, so do the work.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-Go back to school.</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">-The change will take a year.</span></i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Now, instead of protesting like I would have done before, I listened. I started working out and eating better. I coordinated my wardrobe better. I pulled most of my loose ends at work together and completely reorganized my desk so that I could function better. I revamped my strategy in handling my work and was well on my way to having it 100% good. But I also knew that the Father was preparing me to leave this place and it happened. On March 23rd, after coming back from lunch, I was called into the conference room and told that because I had been unable to pull together some of my work, and because I was "unhappy", I was being let go. Was I surprised? No because I had been preparing for this. But let me tell you what happened. </span></span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">I COULDN'T HOLD IN THE SMILE!!!!!</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;"> I absolutely started smiling and after breezing through the paperwork and verifying my paycheck and the pitiful one week severance, I just asked if I could leave now! LOL I went to my desk, pulled out my purse, my iPhone charger and a printout of personal stuff I had. My supervisor of 3 years was standing at my desk looking shell-shocked (I'm not sure she knew if would happen because her reaction was too stunned and she said nothing during the meeting). I pointed out all of the things I had lined up on my desk that needed to be taken care of and she responded that she didn't think she would be able to get any of it done. (Um, oh well - said in my head :)) I passed her the company card key, gave her a hug and BROKE THE HELL OUT!!! LOL I couldn't get out of there fast enough. I giggled all the way home, praising God and saying alright, I'm ready for whatever you have planned for me!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Over these last 2 weeks, I have been getting my house in order, literally. I am throwing away unnecessary things, reorganizing and just plain cleaning it up from top to bottom. I am also bringing new life in with plants because honestly, this place is a dead space. We haven't been here a year yet but I know this is only a temporary space and have been treating it as such. I am now making it more comfortable in preparation for the new place that we will be blessed with, in God's time. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Most importantly though, this is the time I need to get back to what makes me ME! I have not been connected to myself in quite a while and so now is the time. I have been blessed that this man is still in my life and able to handle the rent and extras. My unemployment is kicking in and my children are healthy. What more can I ask for that I don't already have or need? Nothing. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">So the tides have turned in my favor and will bring in more and more blessings! I am sure of it!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #fff2cc;">Charisse </span></span>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-90933081246036067722011-02-28T23:59:00.002-05:002011-03-01T12:06:14.668-05:00I made it through week 1Today is Day 1, Week 2. It involves more of the Hip Hop Abs with only 2 days of Taebo. I know I have lost inches but that darned scale hasn't moved. I won't stress it though, because I know better. I will keep doing what I have been doing and look forward to seeing results. <br />
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I did TaeBo 1 and Fat Burning Cardio today. I admit that I didnt go full force because I was worried about my son, who came home sick from visiting his dad. When I woke him up for school, he was burning with fever. Needless to say, he is home. Then baby girl woke up and she wasnt feeling very well either, after coming home from her dad's house too. We did get out of the door but I turned her around and sent her back to bed. So I will be here at work for only another hour or so, then I will go home to tend to my babies. <br />
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After I tend to them, I will get some spring cleaning done. I started some but there are other things that need to be addressed. Nothing like a clean house, and burning calories while I'm at it. <br />
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Have a blessed day!Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-59320678644618212632011-02-25T09:41:00.000-05:002011-02-25T09:41:10.411-05:00It's A Beautiful Day - Week 1, Day 5Day 5 is a great day. My Love drove me to work today, which means he also has to pick me up! :) I like. <br />
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I did TB1 and FBC today and worked up a sweat doing both. During one of the Taebo moves, the crook of my right arm gets sweaty and makes a suction noise while I'm bending my arm. I think it's funny. I also know I will miss that noise because soon the fat will be gone. I'm not trying to get bony by any means, but the extra on top of the healthy fat is what has to go! I'm working on it! <br />
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<img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/3/8/l386007311.jpg" /><br />
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taken in the M&M store, April 2008.Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-69374753088327194492011-02-23T10:16:00.000-05:002011-02-23T10:16:34.786-05:00I'm On a New MissionHey y'all. I'm gonna get straight to the point. I'm on a new mission to tackle the big thing I have been afraid of for a very long time! My FAT ASS! Yeah, it's time. Time to get rid of this weight for real, and for good. I don't want to be on the destructive path of self-doubt, depression, anxiety again. It's too much and such a waste of life!<br />
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I am tracking my intake at Spark People and figured since I'm doing the blog there, just do it in both places! So welcome to my life, right now! I will do the weight loss tracking and I will also do my art and my everyday! Why not, right? <br />
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So here is the catch up: I just started on Monday, February 21, 2011. I am right now on a 4-week schedule doing an old school TaeBo Basic 1 & 2 DVD and Hip Hop Abs. I am following the Hip Hops Abs schedule and adding the TaeBo to make sure I am doing an hour everyday for the four weeks. Today is Day 3.<br />
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Day 1: <br />
Taebo 1 - done <br />
Hip Hop Abs - Fat Burning Cardio - done <br />
I can and will do this!!! <br />
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Day 2:<br />
TaeBo 1 and Fat Burning Cardio - done <br />
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Day 3: <br />
In the evening on Day 2, I got home from work and my son was playing video games in the livingroom. I told him that I had been working out and he said, to paraphrase, "It doesn't matter. You're gonna quit anyway!" WOW....like WOW, you know. But he was absolutely right. There is no way around, over, under it. All that is left for me to do is get through it. And I will. I told him that I needed him to believe in me, to be positive for me, and told him to tell me "You can do it!" He mumbled it a couple of times but it eventually came out clear. Then I started doing the whole "Do you really think I can do it? blah blah blah" crap that I do and do you know what he did? The boy SHUSHED ME! HE SHUSHED ME! Like he was Richie! That was hilarious! I couldn't do anything but laugh! <br />
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Yesterday, also, Richie and I were talking on the phone and he mentioned that he noticed that I had lost weight the other day when I undressed. Nice, he noticed! Me likey :) <br />
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This morning, Day 3, I got up and did TB1 and Ab Sculpt. That damned Shaun T lied when he said you didnt have to get on the floor to do his workouts. But it was fine. I managed and did everything sufficiently. Practice makes muscle! :) <br />
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That's all for now! Talk to you later!Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-10976782031594731392011-01-05T15:44:00.000-05:002011-01-05T15:44:43.242-05:00HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!WOW, it's been a long time since I posted anything here! I am SURE no one is still around but I will post anyway! <br />
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Things are great! Life is great. God is AWESOME! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsS1X2YbUukxzuGekLqy2ioxO96CVAT6gBtgtwcbsFtxKl-AjYQ9X3IiPyG8eQ_40zgjYZIHXc67R-EiYCmkZGLO1JC7BRfVLsAWZ9Tzou_Nyg351LGtCjz6JbmT3Xga8-mSS8AxMmJir/s1600/tracycharacct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsS1X2YbUukxzuGekLqy2ioxO96CVAT6gBtgtwcbsFtxKl-AjYQ9X3IiPyG8eQ_40zgjYZIHXc67R-EiYCmkZGLO1JC7BRfVLsAWZ9Tzou_Nyg351LGtCjz6JbmT3Xga8-mSS8AxMmJir/s320/tracycharacct.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I like how I look in this picture. Alive and enjoying life!<br />
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So what's good with you?Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-75065539671901907962010-08-16T16:49:00.000-04:002010-08-16T16:49:31.356-04:00The RandomI didn't have any deodorant to put on today. I will rectify that right after work.<br />
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I want a career change. I've prayed on it and will update my resume this week.<br />
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I painted on canvas for the first time in months this past weekend. I missed it so.<br />
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I love my iPhone and want to upgrade to the 3Gs. I will not get #4. Too many problems.<br />
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My son broke my camera this summer. I am sad about it.<br />
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But I will get the new Nikon CoolPix 4000 something. Yes I will!<br />
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I am still decorating my house but I am in no rush.<br />
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I ordered Hip Hop Abs because I wanna have fun in the AM with Shaun T.<br />
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Yes, I really ordered it. I can't wait to start.<br />
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I wanna quit my job and recharge for a few months but I can't.<br />
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I need to go back to school but really can't afford it.<br />
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This may sound bad to some, but I finally blasted into my oldest daughter and it felt good to finally let it out.<br />
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I have prayed and will continue to do so and speak to God about the next steps in that situation.<br />
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God is awesome and I am so glad He loves me!<br />
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I miss you all! That is who all is still checking my blog to see if I post before they delete me altogether!<br />
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Peace!<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-33503843992469276012010-06-15T14:32:00.000-04:002010-06-15T14:32:58.973-04:00Because HE Makes It All Good In HIS Time....To The Father, I give all the Glory! He is indeed, a way-maker and a miracle worker.<br />
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All three of my kids graduate this month (high school, junior high and elementary)<br />
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My oldest invited me to her graduation in Delaware on June 6th.<br />
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I called my sister and wept right into the phone from happiness.<br />
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I thanked the Father for his blessings.<br />
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I drove straight there after we moved from the old apartment to the new one.<br />
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My oldest let me hug her and give her a big kiss (my heart was over the moon!)<br />
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This morning, she sent me a friend request on Facebook and we are now "friends".<br />
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Today is my son's 15th birthday.<br />
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He is so handsome and smart.<br />
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He was offered a summer job with my company.<br />
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He graduates on June 23rd.<br />
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My youngest is growing up great too.<br />
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She is so pretty and smart.<br />
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She is graduating on June 24th.<br />
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I wish she could get a job too but 10-1/2 year olds only get to go to camp! LOL<br />
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My Love is awesome to me and my children and I am happy.<br />
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The dog is doing well too :)<br />
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That's the glory in my days so far this month. <br />
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Talk to you later,<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-88800238795216904342010-06-14T10:12:00.000-04:002010-06-14T10:12:30.777-04:00The Return of Real Women and SingingThis weekend I fell in love with Toni Braxton all over again! I am relieved that she has gotten over the "trying to compete with the young girls" phase she was going through and found her niche! To me, this video and this song screams "<em>Yeah, we been together a long time, but I can still put it on you better than them young girls 'cause I am a grown woman who knows you inside and out!!! Now go home to your wife and love her with all you got</em>!" Thanks Toni.<br />
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That's it for now. Enjoy!<br />
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<object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9JpVynh9HWU&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9JpVynh9HWU&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-18097694542346605482010-05-03T16:17:00.000-04:002010-05-03T16:17:59.029-04:00Goodbye ProjectsGuess what? I am moving! Moving! After 12 years in NYC public housing a/k/a Da Projects, I am finally moving out. Now it's not into anything fancy or even into my own house, but I feel like I am stepping back into the real world. Now there are a few things I will miss, like cheap rent and not paying for gas & electric, but I need to make this change. My youngest has always lived here and my son doesnt remember living anyplace since we moved here when he was 3. It is time for them to know different things and experience new things. <br />
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The area isnt far from where I am now but it is busier. There are more people because it is near a major shopping area/transportation hub. I like that the kids will learn how to travel for real now since they will have to take 2 buses to get to their schools, since neither of them wants to transfer away from their friends. It is time for them to grow up and for Mommy to loosen the apron strings j u s t a little bit! <br />
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The move-in date should be June 1st, officially, but we signed the lease for May15th. You know I have to get in there and do my cleaning and some painting, and light my candles and say my prayers for blessings in the new space. That is a MUST!!! I need to go to the botanica and get a candle and some Florida water. Who knows about that, huh?<br />
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Anyway, so I just wanted to let you all know what is going on. Well whomever still reads my blog! LOL<br />
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Have a blessed day!<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-53922837760384874532010-04-16T15:29:00.000-04:002010-04-16T15:29:09.920-04:00My heart is breaking again but it's truly a God thing this time!I don't really want to talk about it. I just needed to say that. <br />
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Peace and blessings,<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-16222970242813546092010-03-13T10:21:00.000-05:002010-03-13T10:21:14.988-05:00Pole Party Fun<div style="text-align: center;">I had a really good time at the pole party. The instructor came in and installed the pole right in the middle of the living room. I have to verify that it was indeed very sturdy! A couple of the girls were talking about getting poles themselves, for their bedrooms. Um, not me though! It is not that serious for me! LOL Here are some of the pictures!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRF9D7wzijka7RGM5bS32rD3QwafPdvjEBO_Z5w7YlAVHrFxRdbcpJ4R2dSfYQnE2ebIKIELN-84e7WH1ISbBH2lVxOReJhJmYQuwRuPxfmzamlPXqyha9ITKTLOfV-11rb7k2tw9OeL9Q/s1600-h/IMG_0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRF9D7wzijka7RGM5bS32rD3QwafPdvjEBO_Z5w7YlAVHrFxRdbcpJ4R2dSfYQnE2ebIKIELN-84e7WH1ISbBH2lVxOReJhJmYQuwRuPxfmzamlPXqyha9ITKTLOfV-11rb7k2tw9OeL9Q/s320/IMG_0124.JPG" vt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdxU8bi89Qdf0DzNZcAUV-cKS_TENXHbwzWbu9SN0mJZJfiyQyIjAt79a1WFwVndAwqngVkJxWZ8Jbs3haBVzag4I1zMBkuvr18ulei_v-U4o-MB7XSZaf4Uozauj9gSKUvxHEB7FHLrT/s1600-h/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdxU8bi89Qdf0DzNZcAUV-cKS_TENXHbwzWbu9SN0mJZJfiyQyIjAt79a1WFwVndAwqngVkJxWZ8Jbs3haBVzag4I1zMBkuvr18ulei_v-U4o-MB7XSZaf4Uozauj9gSKUvxHEB7FHLrT/s320/IMG_0046.JPG" vt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pole Installation in progress.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUggG-S6hfDWCoyim498y8Lv4w6rurqQ534XUrvWQxcLVRyuSY5X5nQYyeDkmLl1xZreqqvZM6nXlmssSWvsUthFZjun7yaQVRQ_EjDv1-VvIFcS_i3bWt7EPwmW-O_yw5aYWLcXnr7vN9/s1600-h/IMG_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUggG-S6hfDWCoyim498y8Lv4w6rurqQ534XUrvWQxcLVRyuSY5X5nQYyeDkmLl1xZreqqvZM6nXlmssSWvsUthFZjun7yaQVRQ_EjDv1-VvIFcS_i3bWt7EPwmW-O_yw5aYWLcXnr7vN9/s320/IMG_0072.JPG" vt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This one here is a hot mess. I just met her that night. LOL</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhroh9iED6WCp5eAxCNOWa4DRdaU_HYxsCccC53-Fklg1gqPzwGaHLNVtXsoXPz0BK_QY3kmAO49c51W239OFNV_Pu5UIaWVTkCj4mAmxwas6UdeKT1sZOJ1xbPqmTykRCFWzzp2CXOGzYh/s1600-h/IMG_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhroh9iED6WCp5eAxCNOWa4DRdaU_HYxsCccC53-Fklg1gqPzwGaHLNVtXsoXPz0BK_QY3kmAO49c51W239OFNV_Pu5UIaWVTkCj4mAmxwas6UdeKT1sZOJ1xbPqmTykRCFWzzp2CXOGzYh/s320/IMG_0065.JPG" vt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is my girl, Romanetha. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was a good time, and kind of awkward too because it was Romanetha's niece who was throwing it and I have known her all her life. She's 24 now with a kid of her own. My, how time flies! </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So there you have it. I am signing off now. I am taking the kids to the American Museum of National History to get the heck out of the house on this rainy, windy Saturday. Have a good one!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">xoxo </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Charisse</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-45303180858454016002010-02-25T08:41:00.000-05:002010-02-25T08:41:53.284-05:00Time for Some Art LoveI want to share some of my art with you so here is a link to my YouTube video highlighting my most recent art journal. I hope you enjoy it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6TmnXB821k">Browsing My Art Journal</a><br />
<br />
Talk to you all soon!<br />
xoxo<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-74183223759955977262010-02-18T12:56:00.002-05:002010-02-18T13:02:45.224-05:00I took a break...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiE3nih-avIWXifrVnJc-MddlSJS-tQOIA8w2xRK58MvitSzRBNTHbJAMChsJw2FJhbvs0Ki4M31QGMsMKWp7-aPrLwszMCph_tcZUs8QPXUkq0_ZJW7WLlCs7E3xvx0LwzCRZlnH9HVN/s1600-h/Hazel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiE3nih-avIWXifrVnJc-MddlSJS-tQOIA8w2xRK58MvitSzRBNTHbJAMChsJw2FJhbvs0Ki4M31QGMsMKWp7-aPrLwszMCph_tcZUs8QPXUkq0_ZJW7WLlCs7E3xvx0LwzCRZlnH9HVN/s320/Hazel.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">and forgot to let you guys know. Sorry. Things have been good lately. I got a car! Yay! Her name is Hazel and she is a 1994 Toyota Camry. She is ol' skool and funky like me, and I am beside myself with joy! It is taking a little getting used to since I have been riding EVERYWHERE with Love for the past 6 months. He was super excited about not having to drive me and pick me up now, and not going to miss me and all of the BS! Yeah right! Since I have been driving, he calls me at work j u s t before I am getting off and keeps me on the phone as long as possible, so he can track my ass! I am hip to it! I ain't no fool! No, no, my man, you will not pin me down! LOL I think it's cute though, and funny as hell! Men are so stupid sometimes!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhS97VRioE_FFjfYcIYakxONAyVaNbZPSCRzZOrOysUeLGVHlhs1vJ-ZgzwrNmi_TIg4x4eWydzZ7EW4d9mqvpcsYTGs0_HCZsEfNlVP5l36Q5iRIoabALIFXQ7LrYY5ocgcciadQ1Hct/s1600-h/Glamour+Pig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhS97VRioE_FFjfYcIYakxONAyVaNbZPSCRzZOrOysUeLGVHlhs1vJ-ZgzwrNmi_TIg4x4eWydzZ7EW4d9mqvpcsYTGs0_HCZsEfNlVP5l36Q5iRIoabALIFXQ7LrYY5ocgcciadQ1Hct/s320/Glamour+Pig.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And then they can be so very sweet and awesome and great! This is what I came home to one day last week. No, it was before Valentine's Day and just sitting on the bed, waiting for me to come home! Love bought her to replace the simple white piggy bank I have on my nightstand. She does look better there than the other one, but I can't let go of the other one, so I have both there! Silly of me, yes I know!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoGK9FG9VKhyphenhyphenYgxSiR1EpIkeyMPm4CWheHG57mmk21nkYFZ92A3g071gN2OFfkbPzA0vKp4CfGkwlq64k7dYGNtuOA3aQl40dpuZoXRkwlPShPwFGPGOxHp38Xe765zcntTnGZMkyxqLkJ/s1600-h/Snow+in+the+Hood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoGK9FG9VKhyphenhyphenYgxSiR1EpIkeyMPm4CWheHG57mmk21nkYFZ92A3g071gN2OFfkbPzA0vKp4CfGkwlq64k7dYGNtuOA3aQl40dpuZoXRkwlPShPwFGPGOxHp38Xe765zcntTnGZMkyxqLkJ/s320/Snow+in+the+Hood.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, you know I live in the northeast and we got hit big time with the snow. There were two storms and the Bronx was missed with the first one, but the second one definitely made up for it! This is what came down the other day and I have to say, I love it. I live in the 'hood and there are good and bad points to it, especially in the projects. But when everything is covered and the trees are all puffy and light looking, I imagine this is Main Street USA with the super friendly and helpful neighbors and all that stuff you see on TV. It definitely warms my heart and makes me think of innocence and being a child again!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On March 6th, I am going to a pole party. What is a pole party, you say? Well, I had to ask the same thing and when I was told it is where you learn how to entertain your man and work the pole, ala strip club, I was like, "I wanna go!" Add to that food and drinks, and I am ready! I'll let you know how that goes, for sure!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's all for now. Hope you all are doing well and putting a little bit of spice in your own lives!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Love ya, Charisse!</div>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-58733319299575849532010-01-18T10:01:00.000-05:002010-01-18T10:01:32.965-05:00Goings on around here....Hey everyone! How are y'all doing? Me, I don't good, could complain about some things, but all in all, I am blessed and happy to have another day to call my own.<br />
<br />
I got back most of the stuff the oldest took from me. Her school sent it back. My little one was happy to get her camera back. She asked if her oldest sister "didn't really take it?", but I did not lie to her. I told her the truth, "she sent it back". Straight to the point and no more sugarcoating. I don't want to dwell on this situation any longer so let's more on, shall we?<br />
<br />
My goals list is being worked on for sure. I have made a workout plan for myself and I am following it. There is room for error and unexpected changes, but all in all, I am following it. I have 5 TaeBo videos that I have to get through. I have to do each of them 3 times a week for four weeks. I just finished week one of the first one. The results are going to take time and I am giving myself time to get the results. It's as simple as that! <br />
<br />
I havent gotten back to the Ailey Center yet but I will. Trust me, I will. <br />
<br />
I am going to scrapbooking crop this Friday night. I am looking forward to it.<br />
<br />
I am still working on my book of the month, Paradise by Toni Morrison. It is kind of dragging but I am determined to finish it.<br />
<br />
That's it for now. <br />
<br />
Talk to you all soon!<br />
xoxo<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-16061005045075743472010-01-06T15:17:00.000-05:002010-01-06T15:17:01.365-05:00Liars, Thieves and a Child's Heartbreak<span style="color: #f1c232;">Let's get right to it, shall we?</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">My oldest daughter saw my youngest daughter at the ex's house over the holiday weekend and tricked her into giving up her housekeys on the promise of new clothes. The ex found out and instead of taking the keys away, he made the oldest promise not to do anything "crazy." </span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<em><span style="color: #f1c232;">Um, who was it that said if you have to tell someone don't do something, you know they WILL do it?</span></em><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">Anywho. So, the oldest comes to my house with her girlfriend and proceeds to STEAL clothes, shoes, boots, money, a camera and most of my handbags. She leaves the keys under the youngest's pillow as promised and proceeded to walk out of the building, carrying 2 large bags of stolen goods, and right past Love with a snide remark, who doesnt realize what has happened until we both get home later that night and put 2+2 together!</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">How do you deal with a 10 year old little girl who loves the ground her big sister walks on and now has her heart shattered by lies? How do you deal with a 17 year old woman who thinks nothing of manipulating and lying to get something that she could have just asked for? If she had been a 27 year old crack addict, then you know how to wrap your brain around it. When it's a 17 year old who wants to do as she pleases but wants to hurt her mother for some unknown reason, I am stumped.</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">I filled out a police report. I called and cursed the ex and told him I would have him charged with accessory to burglary. I spoke her school's principal, guidance counselor and school police officer. Most importantly though, I spoke to God and I need to speak to Him some more because, although I am getting tired of thinking about it, I still need His guidance to make the right decision on what to do next!</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">Needing some prayers, please</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">xoxo Charisse</span>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-18806834880524474472010-01-05T15:28:00.000-05:002010-01-05T15:28:53.048-05:00My Word for The Year<span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;">Pursue</span><br />
<br />
Verb<br />
<br />
1. Carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in; "She pursued many activities"; "They engaged in a discussion".<br />
<br />
2. Follow in or as if in pursuit; "The police car pursued the suspected attacker"; "Her bad deed followed her and haunted her dreams all her life".<br />
<br />
3. Go in search of or hunt for; "pursue a hobby".<br />
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4. Carry further or advance; "Can you act on this matter soon?".<br />
<br />
I am definitely happy in knowing that this word is the closest I could find to explain what I want to do with the rest of my life. I tried 'engage' and 'involve' but they didnt feel right. PURSUE is right!<br />
<br />
Here's to Twenty Ten!!<br />
xoxo<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-70927700164892859802009-12-30T14:31:00.000-05:002009-12-30T14:31:06.670-05:00Happiness is....Eating homemade baklava at work *yum*<br />
<br />
The kids at their families' for the holiday week :)<br />
<br />
Getting the Wii Active Personal Trainer for Christmas<br />
<br />
New candle and soap purchases from Patrice<br />
<br />
Love and I talking and sharing this week, and realizing that, at the end of our everyday, it's all about us.<br />
<br />
Going to the club around the corner from my house on New Year's and being able to walk home afterwards<br />
<br />
Having the next four days off of work (and last week too!)<br />
<br />
Knowing I will be moving out of the projects in the spring!<br />
<br />
Deciding that losing 5 pounds a month for the next year sounds much more achievable than saying 60 pounds<br />
<br />
Having Love ask me if I want to work out with him in the new year to reach our fitness goals.<br />
<br />
Envisioning myself in a bikini on the beach with my Love and his matching six-pack.<br />
<br />
Reaching for each one of my goals for my life and being more willing to participate in it!<br />
<br />
Sending hugs and kisses to my online friends!<br />
<br />
Enjoy the holiday, see you in the new year!<br />
xoxo<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-55797068349191409142009-12-17T09:21:00.000-05:002009-12-17T09:21:11.652-05:00Glimpses of My Weekend....- Being in NYC early on Saturday morning before the hordes of tourists arrive.<br />
<br />
- Falling in love with dance again at the Ailey Extension, even though I was unable to participate because my morning business meeting ran over time. (I did speak with the instructor after class was over, who confirmed that I hadn't missed anything and can start anytime I want to!)<br />
<br />
- Remembering that walking around NYC is one of the best exercises you can do for my mind, body and spirit.<br />
<br />
- Realizing again that the subway is your friend, no matter how much I hate going underground.<br />
<br />
- Eating at a restaurant which serves healthier, Greek-inspired food and wishing I was eating at <a href="http://www.zoeskitchen.com/zoes_menu_new.pdf">Zoe's Kitchen </a> in Patton Creek in Hoover, Alabama, again (Hey Adrienne!). I wish they would open one here in NYC and even wrote to Zoe's a couple of years ago about that. (Yes I did, Adrienne, and they said it wasn't in their forecast! Blah!) They aren't even interested in coming up north! Double Blah!<br />
<br />
That's all for now.<br />
xoxo CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-67053006953056668292009-12-08T18:18:00.007-05:002009-12-17T09:17:15.068-05:00Catching Up With My Life....<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">So, the visit in NC was absolutely great! There was NO drama, if you can believe it. Brother T's wife is very nice and I can see where she may clash with the Love's oldest sister, but it isn't that bad. It really didn't turn out in a bad way at all. I enjoyed myself and really like North Carolina. I may move there in the future.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">Lately, I have been feeling like I have nothing to be passionate about. Nothing to look forward to, nothing to do, period. Oh, I do have my art and I am just now getting back into creating a couple of things in my art journal, but nothing has really moved me. I have been uninspired. That is until, I was watching a commercial for "So You Think You Can Dance", and then it hit me. Well, it hit me AGAIN!!! Let me explain.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">My first love was dance. I found dance in elementary school through a wonderful teacher named Mr. Goode. Mr. Goode taught modern dance after school when I was in 5th and 6th grades and I fell in love with participating in dance. I used to go to the library and check out the same book about The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater over and over because I loved looking at the pictures and dreamed of being Judith Jamison performing "Firebird". I was so into dance that I was able to obtain a full summer scholarship to the Dance Theater of Harlem and even attended after school when school resumed that year. Unfortunately, BOYS entered the picture and there was no real looking back for me. Life came up and grabbed me and I put all aspirations behind me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">I had found out in recent years that the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater offers dance classes for 'regular' folk and have been planning on taking classes since but haven't gotten around to it yet. Every couple of months I check the schedule looking to see what classes I would like to participate in and always make plans to go register, but did not do it. Well, that time has come and I ABSOLUTELY INTEND to take a class this coming Saturday and will continue to do so as a part of living my OWN life for a change! I plan to take the "Beginner West African" and "SharQui Bellydance" classes. I am nervous but I am looking forward to doing something for myself. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">I have decided that I need to make some goals for myself because I feel like I am just existing and stagnating, wasting time that I will not get back. I am inspired by quite a few of you and because you are my friends, I have decided to share that list with you so that I can be held accountable.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">1. Dance classes 2x a month - because I need to follow my core passion and move my body and connect with others who feel like I do about moving and expressing myself with music.</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">2. Workout 3x a week at home - because I have no excuse and I am tired of looking at my body and being unhappy with what I see. I wanna look like Serena Williams and that ain't gonna happen by osmosis!</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">3. Learn to sew - because my mother never let us touch her sewing machine and I really would like to make pretty things, like Adrienne and Patrice.</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">4. Scrapbook at crops once a month - because I need to get out and be inspired by others who share my interests.</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">5. Read at least one book a month - because a lot of times, I feel like I don't have anything to talk about and I think my mind is shrinking.</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">6. Get my face made up professionally at the MAC store once every 3-6 months - just because I wanna see what I would look like all done up and perty!!! LOL</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">I turn 40 next September 22nd and that is the date I intend to accomplish all of these goals listed. I also intend to do other things too but this list is the main one!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">Do you have anything you have wanted to do but havent gotten around to? Well, join me in my quest and let's do this together! Rent Julie & Julia too. It was a really good boost to my motivation.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">Love y'all</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #073763;">Charisse</span>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-426604115014313652009-11-23T16:13:00.000-05:002009-11-23T16:13:05.378-05:00Holiday Travel and Some Randomness for Good MeasureHeading south again but this time, no funerals! The kids, Love and I are heading to North Carolina to surprise Love's brother. Love's brother had gastric bypass surgery some years ago. He, unfortunately, had complications and ended up gaining more weight and dealing with an open wound for a few years now. He went to several specialists and had surgery this past summer to finally repair the trouble spot. Love decided he wanted to go visit him since he has never been to this brother's house before and so we will be there for the Thanksgiving holiday.<br />
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Although I have been around Love's family for about 20 years, I only met this brother "T" when I went to Georgia for their mom's funeral. He is married with 2 beautiful girls and is a good man that I can tell. I have heard rumors about his wife though that give me pause.<br />
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Example No. 1, a neighbor of Love's other brother "C" cooked a spread of food for his home and for visitors for after the funeral. Well brother "T", his wife, their kids, her mom, her sis and her niece were staying at brother "C"'s house. Instead of being grateful for the gift, T's wife went out and bought her family Popeye's chicken. Umm... how you do you say it?<br />
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<em><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">"Houston, we have a problem!!"</span></em><br />
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Now I was there. I ate the food and it was slammin'!! I met the neighbors and they are good people. I saw the Popeye's chicken but didnt put it all together until the above was told to me. <br />
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Example No. 2. I spoke with said wife to finalize our plans to stay her home and sleeping arrangements and such. She was fine with it and made a couple of comments about "that older sister". Love's older sister is an attorney who at most times acts a big "Bourgie" but is alright with me 'cause I really don't care! Older sis is staying at the Marriott. Well, when Older Sis and Love spoke about the arrangements, Older Sis' comment was "Better you than me!"<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: red; font-size: large;"><em>Me feels a bit of dram-uh may be in the works.</em></span><br />
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But I am all for it 'cause I will have a front row seat! I'll give y'all the details when I get back on Monday!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Now the Random: <br />
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- My son has a little girlfriend who has his nose wide open and they are burning up my telephone line! <br />
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- I was thinking about doing the Master Cleanse after reading Sasha's blog and doing some research but I know I will definitely have to ease myself into that because I would go into shock going from super junk food to some damned lemonade! Slow and steady, slow and steady!!! LOL<br />
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- I will be moving out of the projects within the next 3-4 months and I am so excited! Granted we will be paying twice the rent but you know what? Peace of mind in knowing that you don't have a million M-Fers in one building all on top of each other and miserable is what I look forward to for my children. Little Momma has always lived in the PJs and my son was 3 when we moved in. It is time to go!<br />
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- I need to make some crafty friends to hang out and create with because my mojo is out of the window and I can't justify buying art supplies anymore.<br />
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- I might be getting laid off soon. Kind of looking forward to it, to be honest, but I am terrified all the same!<br />
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- I miss my oldest and although she is not speaking to me, I know she misses me too. Even though she "unfriended" me on Facebook, she hasnt blocked me from her MySpace page or her YouTube channel yet, so I take that as a sign of hope!<br />
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- I have found a new spot to get my hair done. The Dominican lady at my old spot was the BOMBBBB!!! But I hated having to be in there first thing in the morning and she wouldnt show up for 4 hours or longer! She is a spirit-filled, lovely person but that is just too long! Plus it was way too far away and that aint working since I don't have a car anymore! There is one much closer to me that just opened recently and they do hair almost as good as her. I will take 2 hours start to finish over waiting 4 hours anyday!<br />
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Make sure you all have a wonderful holiday and be safe, alright!<br />
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Love and kisses and a big Gobble Gobble to you!!<br />
CharisseCharissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-32343711295697033462009-11-11T11:35:00.008-05:002009-11-11T11:39:08.946-05:00Mothering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6oPE7zea9pHfpkqNyO5NOdhQwOIv3pzcK-dypowdl6uNI2JyARNT6aqasdQtlLA6rX6iuLKVoVj6oiAvBPeNDFRmjYgr2vjy8aCONClF2jQTAoOMhdM0Epz7HH8_vbTFuOsfEkmSXRu6/s1600-h/img030-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6oPE7zea9pHfpkqNyO5NOdhQwOIv3pzcK-dypowdl6uNI2JyARNT6aqasdQtlLA6rX6iuLKVoVj6oiAvBPeNDFRmjYgr2vjy8aCONClF2jQTAoOMhdM0Epz7HH8_vbTFuOsfEkmSXRu6/s320/img030-2.jpg" vr="true" /></span></a><br />
</div><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><em>I blame my mother for nothing, but forgive her everything - Mary J. Blige</em></span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">This quote makes my heart sad and hopeful at the same time. Throughout history, all across the world, the general concensus is that whatever problems you may have, it all goes back to your mother! Your mother! My mother! Her mother! Their mother!!<br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">We mothers have so very much to deal with and as we all know, there is no handbook, course or study material for the "real" life of a mother. Oh, we can read all types of books on parenting a healthy child, what to and not to do, but being a mother entails more than helping you learn to tie your shoes and say "please" and "thank you".</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Let me tell you about my mother. Bernice was 36 years old by the time she had me, her first live born child, in 1970. She had 3 miscarriages before me and based on the stories she told me, she really wanted me! I love that! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">My mother was not married to my father and had to contend with him questioning whether I was really his child because I didnt look anything like him, 'cause I was light-skinned with chinky eyes and good hair. He said I looked like the "Chinese laundry man's baby. " Bernice, of course, cursed my dark-chocolate skinned, skinny, older father out about it. My younger sisters, as you can see, came out looking more like him. </span><br />
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</div><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">My grandfather told her that he should have been glad that he could still produce a child as old as he was. My father was 17 years older than my mother. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">She was his mistress for 20 years and had 3 children by him. She claimed she couldn't stand his black ass, but I know that she had to be madly in love with him to stay around for that long. I remember they used to go on dates from time to time. He never lived with us and when I questioned her about that later, she said that he had a very high sex drive. Of course, that made me think that she thought he may try to touch one of us girls inappropriately, but I never asked her outright. It would have dug too deep. I do think, however, that she may have been sexually abused or assaulted when she was younger and so she just didnt trust <strong>any</strong> man around us.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">My mother raised us by herself. I only remember seeing my father 3 times a year, at most. Bernice was a nurse who worked hard to take care of us but was bad at managing money to a certain extent. Looking back, I can see where the money went, but I also see a better way of handling it. She did her best though and I can only respect that. My father didn't give her money for support because he didnt really acknowledge us. It's deep.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">So my mother did her best. She taught us how to handle ourselves as ladies. How to sit on a couch instead of plopping down. How to cook, how to clean, how to be respectful to our elders. She even taught us how to drink by allowing us to drink at age 15, but only in the house with her so she could monitor how each of us would react to alcohol. It was only rum and coke or wine coolers, but she taught us how to handle our liquor and when to say enough is enough. She slow-walked us through make-up and high heels and smoking and boys. She had set ages at which we could do all those important things and it was a good method because by the time we could do all of them, they really had lost their appeal. (Except the boys!!! LOL Boys are always appealing!) </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">She did all of this but now I wonder, who was taking care of her? As I look at my life focused on my children, I see where there are people here and there to pull me out of my own head. My mother had a few but not as many as I do. She didnt go out with her girlfriends. She didnt hang out at the clubs. My mom was always there. ALWAYS THERE! It is amazing how much we cherish as we get older but don't see when we are in the midst of it. I appreciate that she got all of her partying out before she had us (as she put it). I do wish she would have been more active and outgoing when we were coming up but she made her decision and that was that. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">I hope that my children appreciate that I am still learning but doing my very best to take care of them and myself. I have made mistakes and done things I regret but my children always come first, as it was with my mother and as it always should be for all mothers!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Thank you Mommy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">xoxo</span><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Charisse</span>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-43695984769719907462009-10-29T13:12:00.003-04:002009-10-29T13:14:53.308-04:00In Memory of My Friend<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>My friend, my cousin, Ms. Cynthia Berry, lost her battle with cancer on Monday, October 26th, just before her 39th birthday! She was a beautiful, purpose-filled woman who spent her final days how she wanted, at home with her children.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Cindy was so driven to succeed in whatever she set her mind to. She spoke fluent Spanish. She went to college and then law school, graduating at the top of her class each time. She worked in the legal field and when she bored of that, she switched to the real estate field, where she excelled with ease. She also dabbled in the music business in her "spare" time, songwriting and managing musical acts, and organizing fashion shows. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Aside from her professional life, she was a good friend and loved her family most of all. She has been to almost all of the family events for each holiday for the past 7 years, without only a slight glitch, which she was highly upset about. She loved spending time with her cousins, from the oldest to the youngest. Her older daughter and my youngest daughter are inseparable when they are around each other. Cindy made sure that family stayed connected. It was very much her focus in life.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>She was in Stage IV and taking the radiation treatment but that wasn't enough. I kind of knew from our conversation last month that she wouldn't be around to spend Thanksgiving with us this year, but I was hopeful! When Love and I made plans to go down south this year, it was in my thoughts that it would be my first time not being home and not having her around for the holiday. Now I know that deep down we both knew she wouldn't be around for the holiday. I do have to respect the fact that she chose to be home with her kids, and do things on her own terms. The type of person she is would not allow her to be stuck in a hospital bed, not being able to enjoy her last days.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Cindy had my back from the first day we met. She was around when I went through a lot of mess with the ex, Moe but mind you, she is Moe's cousin, not mine! She had no problem telling him when he was wrong and that he messed up. When she met Love last year at Thanksgiving dinner, and Moe called, she let him know that although she was his cousin, it was his fault that he wasnt there, not hers, and that she wasnt going to miss out on my cooking because of his stupidity. Then she told Moe that she liked Love and that it was Moe's loss! That was my girl!!! She pulled no punches. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Ms. Cynthia Berry is preceeded by her father and older sister, both to cancer. She leaves behind her mother Hazel, her 10 year old daughter, 3 year old twin daughter and son, and a very large extended family here in NY.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Kiss your loved ones who are close, and call the ones who are far.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Every day is a present, enjoy the gift!</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>xoxo</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><strong>Charisse<br />
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<strong></strong>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-57482549277719200842009-10-22T16:30:00.000-04:002009-10-22T16:30:14.025-04:00My Favorite Things in Pink<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-J_8WfvF4OmHGGU5_zio-gYGyeq1ZTfAgbrmd2ajnlD-g7X_EucDXwpZDPnlK2xpjoiXPKPDNQ1Q1LisuoBknvDtxC3fmDf0rBVVJLo28vH2zOKspUSZtyPm-XCNqk4s7aAo-Mf1XnR27/s1600-h/my+favorite+pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-J_8WfvF4OmHGGU5_zio-gYGyeq1ZTfAgbrmd2ajnlD-g7X_EucDXwpZDPnlK2xpjoiXPKPDNQ1Q1LisuoBknvDtxC3fmDf0rBVVJLo28vH2zOKspUSZtyPm-XCNqk4s7aAo-Mf1XnR27/s320/my+favorite+pink.jpg" vr="true" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pink Roses!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pretty Pink Girly Bedrooms<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Creating Beauty with My Own Hands!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Charisse<br />
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</div>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1259436778047539187.post-50533128245847379902009-10-16T17:07:00.000-04:002009-10-16T17:07:16.925-04:00My Days Lately-I had to take the day off yesterday to handle some important business with regard to my living situation.<br />
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-I wasnt feeling well this morning and something kept telling me to stay home but I ignored it and got on the bus because Love couldnt drive me. I had just taken yesterday off so why would I take another day, a Friday off, you know. Need to put my best foot forward to keep my job! Well, when I got there, I started feeling worse and my supervisor looked at me and said that I should go home! Um WOO HOO! Thank you! I texted Love and asked if he could pick me up and he came about 45 minutes.<br />
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-Although I can get to work on the bus pretty easily, it is hard during midday because the bus directly to my house only runs during rush hour, morning and night. So good thing Love drives for his job and has different routes and was able to come get me. He dropped me right off and went on his way with only a little delay! I came straight upstairs, undressed and got right in bed. I slept for about 2 hours and felt much better afterwards.<br />
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-I feel like painting and creating something pretty! I cleaned my art area the other day in anticipation of my mojo coming back and I think it worked! Whatever I start, I will show you all.<br />
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-My iPhone is so cool and I enjoy it very much. Here is a picture to share with you all!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is my gynecologist on the fishing boat with us 2 weeks ago! LOL<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH6f508xQ34gwcCmd3DhqmUJv6XiIH5QvX0ZoTolGD68FtCAki5nprDM_I6-i2NEqqC4Xp7QIOYxOH8Ap-s4RQNnFstPukXLD54aHU9d-jXa7565a4yKM2LEwBPKejF8fOpUVN7TtMkdn/s1600-h/IMG_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH6f508xQ34gwcCmd3DhqmUJv6XiIH5QvX0ZoTolGD68FtCAki5nprDM_I6-i2NEqqC4Xp7QIOYxOH8Ap-s4RQNnFstPukXLD54aHU9d-jXa7565a4yKM2LEwBPKejF8fOpUVN7TtMkdn/s320/IMG_0062.JPG" vr="true" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looking pretty to go see Maxwell in concert!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Talk to you all later!!!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">xoxo<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Charisse<br />
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</div>Charissehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00825430564945338706noreply@blogger.com6