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.
*Yes your honor, I understand she can no longer taste the candy she consumes, but she so deserved it!
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.
*Really, 3 pairs of capris are the only summer clothes I have. Last year, I wasn't into summer too much.
I bought myself 4 pairs of flat sandals at the first store for a total of $21. Nice!!!
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!!!
I went to another store and bought myself one of those fake leather bomber jackets in caramel for $25. Nice again!
I bought myself a nightie with thong and 2 bra & panty sets from another store. Nice indeed!
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.
*We'll talk about how I have no job now but have more disposable cash another time! God is good!
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).
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.
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.
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.
See, good things do happen when God is working for your good!
xoxo
Charisse
Monday, April 18, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Oh How The Tides Have Turned
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.
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.
Here is what I was being told by the Father:
-It's time for a change.
-Work on your appearance, presentation is everything.
-Tie up the loose ends at work so that everything will be organized when you leave.
-If you want a managerial position, you have to act like a manager, so do the work.
-Go back to school.
-The change will take a year.
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.
I COULDN'T HOLD IN THE SMILE!!!!! 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!
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.
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.
So the tides have turned in my favor and will bring in more and more blessings! I am sure of it!
Charisse
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.
Here is what I was being told by the Father:
-It's time for a change.
-Work on your appearance, presentation is everything.
-Tie up the loose ends at work so that everything will be organized when you leave.
-If you want a managerial position, you have to act like a manager, so do the work.
-Go back to school.
-The change will take a year.
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.
I COULDN'T HOLD IN THE SMILE!!!!! 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!
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.
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.
So the tides have turned in my favor and will bring in more and more blessings! I am sure of it!
Charisse
Monday, February 28, 2011
I made it through week 1
Today 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.
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.
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.
Have a blessed day!
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.
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.
Have a blessed day!
Friday, February 25, 2011
It's A Beautiful Day - Week 1, Day 5
Day 5 is a great day. My Love drove me to work today, which means he also has to pick me up! :) I like.
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!
taken in the M&M store, April 2008.
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!
taken in the M&M store, April 2008.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
I'm On a New Mission
Hey 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!
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?
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.
Day 1:
Taebo 1 - done
Hip Hop Abs - Fat Burning Cardio - done
I can and will do this!!!
Day 2:
TaeBo 1 and Fat Burning Cardio - done
Day 3:
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!
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 :)
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! :)
That's all for now! Talk to you later!
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?
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.
Day 1:
Taebo 1 - done
Hip Hop Abs - Fat Burning Cardio - done
I can and will do this!!!
Day 2:
TaeBo 1 and Fat Burning Cardio - done
Day 3:
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!
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 :)
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! :)
That's all for now! Talk to you later!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
HAPPY 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!
Things are great! Life is great. God is AWESOME!
I like how I look in this picture. Alive and enjoying life!
So what's good with you?
Things are great! Life is great. God is AWESOME!
So what's good with you?
Monday, August 16, 2010
The Random
I didn't have any deodorant to put on today. I will rectify that right after work.
I want a career change. I've prayed on it and will update my resume this week.
I painted on canvas for the first time in months this past weekend. I missed it so.
I love my iPhone and want to upgrade to the 3Gs. I will not get #4. Too many problems.
My son broke my camera this summer. I am sad about it.
But I will get the new Nikon CoolPix 4000 something. Yes I will!
I am still decorating my house but I am in no rush.
I ordered Hip Hop Abs because I wanna have fun in the AM with Shaun T.
Yes, I really ordered it. I can't wait to start.
I wanna quit my job and recharge for a few months but I can't.
I need to go back to school but really can't afford it.
This may sound bad to some, but I finally blasted into my oldest daughter and it felt good to finally let it out.
I have prayed and will continue to do so and speak to God about the next steps in that situation.
God is awesome and I am so glad He loves me!
I miss you all! That is who all is still checking my blog to see if I post before they delete me altogether!
Peace!
Charisse
I want a career change. I've prayed on it and will update my resume this week.
I painted on canvas for the first time in months this past weekend. I missed it so.
I love my iPhone and want to upgrade to the 3Gs. I will not get #4. Too many problems.
My son broke my camera this summer. I am sad about it.
But I will get the new Nikon CoolPix 4000 something. Yes I will!
I am still decorating my house but I am in no rush.
I ordered Hip Hop Abs because I wanna have fun in the AM with Shaun T.
Yes, I really ordered it. I can't wait to start.
I wanna quit my job and recharge for a few months but I can't.
I need to go back to school but really can't afford it.
This may sound bad to some, but I finally blasted into my oldest daughter and it felt good to finally let it out.
I have prayed and will continue to do so and speak to God about the next steps in that situation.
God is awesome and I am so glad He loves me!
I miss you all! That is who all is still checking my blog to see if I post before they delete me altogether!
Peace!
Charisse
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Because 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.
All three of my kids graduate this month (high school, junior high and elementary)
My oldest invited me to her graduation in Delaware on June 6th.
I called my sister and wept right into the phone from happiness.
I thanked the Father for his blessings.
I drove straight there after we moved from the old apartment to the new one.
My oldest let me hug her and give her a big kiss (my heart was over the moon!)
This morning, she sent me a friend request on Facebook and we are now "friends".
Today is my son's 15th birthday.
He is so handsome and smart.
He was offered a summer job with my company.
He graduates on June 23rd.
My youngest is growing up great too.
She is so pretty and smart.
She is graduating on June 24th.
I wish she could get a job too but 10-1/2 year olds only get to go to camp! LOL
My Love is awesome to me and my children and I am happy.
The dog is doing well too :)
That's the glory in my days so far this month.
Talk to you later,
Charisse
All three of my kids graduate this month (high school, junior high and elementary)
My oldest invited me to her graduation in Delaware on June 6th.
I called my sister and wept right into the phone from happiness.
I thanked the Father for his blessings.
I drove straight there after we moved from the old apartment to the new one.
My oldest let me hug her and give her a big kiss (my heart was over the moon!)
This morning, she sent me a friend request on Facebook and we are now "friends".
Today is my son's 15th birthday.
He is so handsome and smart.
He was offered a summer job with my company.
He graduates on June 23rd.
My youngest is growing up great too.
She is so pretty and smart.
She is graduating on June 24th.
I wish she could get a job too but 10-1/2 year olds only get to go to camp! LOL
My Love is awesome to me and my children and I am happy.
The dog is doing well too :)
That's the glory in my days so far this month.
Talk to you later,
Charisse
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Return of Real Women and Singing
This 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 "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!" Thanks Toni.
That's it for now. Enjoy!
That's it for now. Enjoy!
Monday, May 3, 2010
Goodbye Projects
Guess 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.
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!
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?
Anyway, so I just wanted to let you all know what is going on. Well whomever still reads my blog! LOL
Have a blessed day!
Charisse
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!
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?
Anyway, so I just wanted to let you all know what is going on. Well whomever still reads my blog! LOL
Have a blessed day!
Charisse
Friday, April 16, 2010
My 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.
Peace and blessings,
Charisse
Peace and blessings,
Charisse
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Pole Party Fun
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!
Pole Installation in progress.
This one here is a hot mess. I just met her that night. LOL
This is my girl, Romanetha.
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!
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!
xoxo
Charisse
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Time for Some Art Love
I 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.
Browsing My Art Journal
Talk to you all soon!
xoxo
Charisse
Browsing My Art Journal
Talk to you all soon!
xoxo
Charisse
Thursday, February 18, 2010
I took a break...
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!
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!
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!
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!
That's all for now. Hope you all are doing well and putting a little bit of spice in your own lives!
Love ya, Charisse!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Goings 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.
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?
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!
I havent gotten back to the Ailey Center yet but I will. Trust me, I will.
I am going to scrapbooking crop this Friday night. I am looking forward to it.
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.
That's it for now.
Talk to you all soon!
xoxo
Charisse
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?
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!
I havent gotten back to the Ailey Center yet but I will. Trust me, I will.
I am going to scrapbooking crop this Friday night. I am looking forward to it.
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.
That's it for now.
Talk to you all soon!
xoxo
Charisse
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Liars, Thieves and a Child's Heartbreak
Let's get right to it, shall we?
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."
Um, who was it that said if you have to tell someone don't do something, you know they WILL do it?
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!
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.
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!
Needing some prayers, please
xoxo Charisse
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."
Um, who was it that said if you have to tell someone don't do something, you know they WILL do it?
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!
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.
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!
Needing some prayers, please
xoxo Charisse
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
My Word for The Year
Pursue
Verb
1. Carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in; "She pursued many activities"; "They engaged in a discussion".
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".
3. Go in search of or hunt for; "pursue a hobby".
4. Carry further or advance; "Can you act on this matter soon?".
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!
Here's to Twenty Ten!!
xoxo
Charisse
Verb
1. Carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in; "She pursued many activities"; "They engaged in a discussion".
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".
3. Go in search of or hunt for; "pursue a hobby".
4. Carry further or advance; "Can you act on this matter soon?".
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!
Here's to Twenty Ten!!
xoxo
Charisse
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Happiness is....
Eating homemade baklava at work *yum*
The kids at their families' for the holiday week :)
Getting the Wii Active Personal Trainer for Christmas
New candle and soap purchases from Patrice
Love and I talking and sharing this week, and realizing that, at the end of our everyday, it's all about us.
Going to the club around the corner from my house on New Year's and being able to walk home afterwards
Having the next four days off of work (and last week too!)
Knowing I will be moving out of the projects in the spring!
Deciding that losing 5 pounds a month for the next year sounds much more achievable than saying 60 pounds
Having Love ask me if I want to work out with him in the new year to reach our fitness goals.
Envisioning myself in a bikini on the beach with my Love and his matching six-pack.
Reaching for each one of my goals for my life and being more willing to participate in it!
Sending hugs and kisses to my online friends!
Enjoy the holiday, see you in the new year!
xoxo
Charisse
The kids at their families' for the holiday week :)
Getting the Wii Active Personal Trainer for Christmas
New candle and soap purchases from Patrice
Love and I talking and sharing this week, and realizing that, at the end of our everyday, it's all about us.
Going to the club around the corner from my house on New Year's and being able to walk home afterwards
Having the next four days off of work (and last week too!)
Knowing I will be moving out of the projects in the spring!
Deciding that losing 5 pounds a month for the next year sounds much more achievable than saying 60 pounds
Having Love ask me if I want to work out with him in the new year to reach our fitness goals.
Envisioning myself in a bikini on the beach with my Love and his matching six-pack.
Reaching for each one of my goals for my life and being more willing to participate in it!
Sending hugs and kisses to my online friends!
Enjoy the holiday, see you in the new year!
xoxo
Charisse
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Glimpses of My Weekend....
- Being in NYC early on Saturday morning before the hordes of tourists arrive.
- 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!)
- Remembering that walking around NYC is one of the best exercises you can do for my mind, body and spirit.
- Realizing again that the subway is your friend, no matter how much I hate going underground.
- Eating at a restaurant which serves healthier, Greek-inspired food and wishing I was eating at Zoe's Kitchen 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!
That's all for now.
xoxo Charisse
- 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!)
- Remembering that walking around NYC is one of the best exercises you can do for my mind, body and spirit.
- Realizing again that the subway is your friend, no matter how much I hate going underground.
- Eating at a restaurant which serves healthier, Greek-inspired food and wishing I was eating at Zoe's Kitchen 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!
That's all for now.
xoxo Charisse
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Catching Up With My Life....
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
4. Scrapbook at crops once a month - because I need to get out and be inspired by others who share my interests.
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.
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
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!
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.
Love y'all
Charisse
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
4. Scrapbook at crops once a month - because I need to get out and be inspired by others who share my interests.
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.
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
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!
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.
Love y'all
Charisse
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