About a week ago, the Forbes Billionaires list was announced. New to the list this year and the youngest female to be included is 41 year old Susan Blakey, the creator of Spanx. Unbelievable. At the age of 27 she worked in retail and was a stand-up comedian. She wanted to wear a pair of cream pants to a party one evening and needed an undergarment that simply didn't exist. So, she cut the legs off of control top pantyhose and there was the birth of Spanx. She wore the same cream pants every day for 3 years because she couldn't afford advertisement. She was her own walking commercial. Her big break came when Oprah included Spanx on her "Favorite Things" list and that was all she wrote. She was Oprah'ed. I have rigged up and created so many things in my day, but never imagined I could sell any of it.
Another story I love is that of Bethenny Frankel from the Real Housewives of NY. She was a personal chef/caterer in NY and struggling. There were times she couldn't even pay her rent. At the age of 39 she created a company called "Skinnygirl Cocktails". That same year she wrote 2 cookbooks and released an exercise DVD. The next year she wrote a book called, "A Place of Yes: 10 Rules For Getting Everything You Want Out of Life." It sat on the NY Times best sellers list for several weeks. 40 seemed to have been her year. She got married, gave birth to her first child and sold her "Skinnygirl Cocktails" company to Jim Beam reportedly for $120 million! She now has a spin off show called "Bethenney Ever After" and we get to see her purchase her first home, deal with the challenges of marriage, raising a toddler and new success and money. As if that weren't enough, she will be hosting a talk show airing this summer.
Bethenny was one of the original cast members of RHW of NY and I can't believe that in the time I've been watching her, she's created a brand and gone from one extreme to the other...and I'm STILL watching her (insert a kick to my own ass). There was a time when this woman struggled to stay in a relationship and now she's a married millionairess with a daughter and 3 books under her belt. I feel like a serious underachiever right about now. I say this because there is nothing Bethenny has done or is doing that I haven't thought of or dreamed about doing myself. She just actually DID it. All while I watched. SMDH
It comes down to having a real passion and love for what you're doing. It's the ultimate motivation because you truly believe in "it". It's not just a dream or something that feels good to think about like winning the lotto. You want it so badly you pursue it with tenacity, conviction and the right attitude. There are certain things in life that I have gone after in this manner and I have gotten them. Each and every time. I just need to reach further, jump higher and widen my lens because my talents haven't even touched the surface of their abilities. It's much more comfortable to push towards an easy mark, but if you set your sights further imagine the joy of seeing possibilities become reality.
There's a Maya Angelou quote I often reference. "Don't make money your goal. Instead, pursue the things you love doing and do them so well that people can't take their eyes off you." This should be every body's motto. No matter what it is you love, do it to the fullest and best of your ability. I love to cook and feed people. It is a true extension of my heart and satisfies my creative appetite like nothing else. If I could, I would spend my day in the kitchen and let people come in and eat, whether they could pay me or not. I express myself in food and in word and love to write. Often I don't even intend for it to be read. Writing is actually one of the only times I'm selfish. Most of what you read is merely a conversation I'm having with the woman in the mirror. I am so delighted when friends reach out and actually compliment me on something I've written. It's always a pleasure to know I've touched someone in some way.
Speaking of touched. The other day I had dinner with a friend. On the way to the restaurant we both talked about job stress, relationship challenges and over-all life frustrations. During our meal the convo continued on the same topics but also included money, health issues, the weather, etc. With our bellies satisfied we rushed to valet complaining of the cold weather. The valet attendant that took our ticket greeted us with a gigantic, warm smile. As he called out the numbers of our ticket over his walkie talkie, he never lost his smile and spoke so zealously. He joked around with his colleagues and his every move seemed to be made with pure enthusiasm. We were waiting near where the car would arrive, but I couldn't take my eyes off of this man. I turned to my friend and noticed he was doing the same. We looked at each other and both expressed our awe and shame for all the complaining we just did. My friend is a recruiter for USC. He plays an amazing role in providing education to people. I've been working in HR at a major entertainment company for 10 years. The both of us earn way more than that valet attendant. I have an office with at TV in a building that houses a cafe and a gym on a studio lot that has theaters, a dry cleaner, car wash, store and so much more . My friend gets to travel the country as a job requirement and meet new and interesting people on a daily basis. Yes we both deal with job stress, expectations and difficult people, but we don't stand all day, in a parking garage and meet people who barely say 2 words to us before going about their business. We got in the car feeling extremely blessed and fortunate for what we do.
Susan Blakey, Bethenney Frankel and that valet attendant all inspire me despite how different their lives are. I woke up Monday morning dreading a dental appointment, the commute to work and the issues I had to deal with once I got in, but then I remembered the attendant and his amazing attitude. It all starts with the right attitude. Life would be so much richer if each day was met with that kind of enthusiasm. Each challenge should be delicious and sweet because it pushes us closer to our goals. Oprah may never try my cooking and catapult me to the billionaire's list. Bravo may never play out my love life and business successes on national TV. However, all eyes will be on me because I'm doing what I love and doing it well. And when this life is over, I intend on meeting my Maker with empty hands because I will have used all the gifts He has blessed me with.
As always, wishing you Peace, Blessings and Dee-licious Fun!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
For Dee
It's happened. I've entered a new decade of my life. I don't know what I was dreading or anticipating, but there were no police knocks at the door, no fireworks that lit up the sky, no magical light bulbs that suddenly appeared over my head and no bells or whistles. I spent my birthday exactly how I wanted to. I was where the sand was white and the waters were blue, in a bathing suit, no makeup and my hair in a ponytail. I sat in a swing at a bar on the beach in Cancun and did several tequila shots with people that were beyond my 40 years. Everyone kept offering to buy me another shot, which was funny considering we were at an all-inclusive resort! I had some extremely insightful tequila spiced conversations with people that have retired, seen the world and had so much to talk about. I felt like a sponge soaking up the stories and libations. I met a dairy farmer who bought into the timeshare at the resort so he can give his wife 2 weeks of lovely vacation a year. It was so sweet to hear him talk about his wife and just wanting to make her happy. I met a retired narcotics investigator from Chicago and we talked about marijuana, the millennials in the workplace and the lack of common sense in the world. I met another retired woman whose advice to me was, "travel, enjoy life and date young men." I. Love. Her.
I realized that youth is really in the heart and age is nothing but a number. They out drank me, out storied me, out experienced me, out laughed me and I'm sure I was asleep before them, even though I have less years under my belt than they do! As I stumbled to the buffet to try and counter all the tequila with some tacos, they were running off with their wives to probably continue drinking and sex all night! I was jealous.
A little while back I wrote about how I imagined my life to be quite different at the age of 40. I'm so very hard on myself and I often feel like an underachiever. I honestly felt by 40 I should have the husband, 2 sons, a daughter, 2 family dogs, a house large enough for everyone to have their own room and bathroom and still guest rooms, an office and a kitchen to die for because I would come home from work, cook and we'd all sit down, eat together and discuss our day. Clearly I've watched too much television. I don't even know anyone my age or older that lives like that?!
Here's my reality show: I've never been married, but I did spend 15 years in love with someone. That was an accomplishment! I also gave birth to a beautiful 9 lbs 3 oz, 21 1/2" baby girl on March 11, 1999. There is NOTHING in this world I can't do after that. I don't own a home and truth be told, I don't desire to. I prefer to call the landlord when something needs to be fixed. I bump Pharcyde, Black Moon and a plethora of other old school hip hop while driving my daughter to school and quote rap songs more than any 40 year old woman should. I laugh every day and usually at myself. The best advice I've ever gotten in my whole life came from my daughter when she was all of 5 years old. Someone upset me and she told me to "use my words". I told her I did and I'm still upset and she said, "Just ignore". I've been blessed to travel and live in places that amaze me to this day. One of my greatest memories was touring Old Jerusalem and walking the same path Jesus did with the cross. I've sipped Red Stripe on the beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica. I've been to the Vatican. I've been in the caves in Puerto Rico. The best filet o fish I've ever had was at the McDonalds in Rome. I was on Taxi Cab Confessions in NY. I've seen mostly all of my favorite entertainers live in concert and the memories are priceless. Many life-changing, special events and parties have been enjoyed with my tasty creations because I season all my food with nothing less than pure love. I've been to countless NBA games, a few MLB games and one NFL game. Phantom of the Opera is still my favorite musical. I've walked the red carpet at the Emmy's, Image Awards and Teen Choice Awards. My first skiing experience was in Vale, Colorado. I've water skiid, surfed, camped, hiked, but you will never hear of me bungy jumping or rock climbing! Also, I'm just fine with the simulated sky diving because I don't see myself ever in a postition to be standing next to an open door on a plane and jumping out. Snorkling is okay, but I prefer to see fish from the other side of thick glass. If you want to kill me, stick me in a room with cats. "40 year old woman dies from the torture of cat allergies." is what the headline would read. I've been to the shooting range and while there I imagined every one of those people to lose control or go postal and shoot me. (why?) I have sought the advice of a therapist on more than one occasion in my life and recommend it to others. I wanted to be a race car driver when I was younger. I own two tool boxes and a drill and I'm not afraid to use them. I used to collect caterpillars, put salt in snails, and Grunion run, but wouldn't think of doing any of those things now. Tacos and french fries are my favorite foods. I will put hot sauce on almost anything and dip almost anything in ranch. (Almost!) I was raised a Catholic and when I was younger if anything bad happened to me, like I fell off my bike, I would pray for forgiveness because I felt I must've done or said something bad to deserve to fall. I still pray and love the Lord, but I've gotten over that Catholicism guilt :) I've loved and lost and I'm not afraid to do it again! There's so many other things that have paved my journey and make up who I am today, but I can't write about them all.
The other day my friend asked me how does 40 feel. I told him 40 still feels like 39, but 39 has always felt like 33, and 33 still felt like 25. So there you have it. I don't know if 40 is the new 30 or whatever the saying is now, but I'm happy I don't have any gray hair, my skin isn't wrinkled, I'm healthy, my daughter is growing up to be a wonderful, young lady, my heart is at peace, my family is solid and my friends are like cups of coffee on tired mornings, warm blankets on cold nights, Patron shots, and smiles all in one. I'm basically a student of life and I love the lessons learned and always eager for the next. I have experience, but I'm not jaded. I keep getting better and I still play as if I don't have to get up and go to work the next day. My journey to 40 might not be what I expected, but oh what I ride and I wouldn't exchange all that I am today for that "dream" of what I thought would be the perfect life. My life is divinely perfect in every way. Every lesson, every experience, every act of love, every smile, every tear, every touch, every pain has been well worth it. It's not 40 years, it's the "For Dee" years and I'm so looking forward to the next "For Dee"! Who knows what's in store...maybe I'll finally make the ultimate commitment and get married. Maybe I'll have another baby. Maybe we'll own a house, with a room for each kid and a spare with the perfect kitchen and two dogs in the backyard chilling next to the pool. Who knows...the possiblities are endless!
As always, PEACE, BLESSINGS and DEE-LICOUS FUN!
I realized that youth is really in the heart and age is nothing but a number. They out drank me, out storied me, out experienced me, out laughed me and I'm sure I was asleep before them, even though I have less years under my belt than they do! As I stumbled to the buffet to try and counter all the tequila with some tacos, they were running off with their wives to probably continue drinking and sex all night! I was jealous.
A little while back I wrote about how I imagined my life to be quite different at the age of 40. I'm so very hard on myself and I often feel like an underachiever. I honestly felt by 40 I should have the husband, 2 sons, a daughter, 2 family dogs, a house large enough for everyone to have their own room and bathroom and still guest rooms, an office and a kitchen to die for because I would come home from work, cook and we'd all sit down, eat together and discuss our day. Clearly I've watched too much television. I don't even know anyone my age or older that lives like that?!
Here's my reality show: I've never been married, but I did spend 15 years in love with someone. That was an accomplishment! I also gave birth to a beautiful 9 lbs 3 oz, 21 1/2" baby girl on March 11, 1999. There is NOTHING in this world I can't do after that. I don't own a home and truth be told, I don't desire to. I prefer to call the landlord when something needs to be fixed. I bump Pharcyde, Black Moon and a plethora of other old school hip hop while driving my daughter to school and quote rap songs more than any 40 year old woman should. I laugh every day and usually at myself. The best advice I've ever gotten in my whole life came from my daughter when she was all of 5 years old. Someone upset me and she told me to "use my words". I told her I did and I'm still upset and she said, "Just ignore". I've been blessed to travel and live in places that amaze me to this day. One of my greatest memories was touring Old Jerusalem and walking the same path Jesus did with the cross. I've sipped Red Stripe on the beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica. I've been to the Vatican. I've been in the caves in Puerto Rico. The best filet o fish I've ever had was at the McDonalds in Rome. I was on Taxi Cab Confessions in NY. I've seen mostly all of my favorite entertainers live in concert and the memories are priceless. Many life-changing, special events and parties have been enjoyed with my tasty creations because I season all my food with nothing less than pure love. I've been to countless NBA games, a few MLB games and one NFL game. Phantom of the Opera is still my favorite musical. I've walked the red carpet at the Emmy's, Image Awards and Teen Choice Awards. My first skiing experience was in Vale, Colorado. I've water skiid, surfed, camped, hiked, but you will never hear of me bungy jumping or rock climbing! Also, I'm just fine with the simulated sky diving because I don't see myself ever in a postition to be standing next to an open door on a plane and jumping out. Snorkling is okay, but I prefer to see fish from the other side of thick glass. If you want to kill me, stick me in a room with cats. "40 year old woman dies from the torture of cat allergies." is what the headline would read. I've been to the shooting range and while there I imagined every one of those people to lose control or go postal and shoot me. (why?) I have sought the advice of a therapist on more than one occasion in my life and recommend it to others. I wanted to be a race car driver when I was younger. I own two tool boxes and a drill and I'm not afraid to use them. I used to collect caterpillars, put salt in snails, and Grunion run, but wouldn't think of doing any of those things now. Tacos and french fries are my favorite foods. I will put hot sauce on almost anything and dip almost anything in ranch. (Almost!) I was raised a Catholic and when I was younger if anything bad happened to me, like I fell off my bike, I would pray for forgiveness because I felt I must've done or said something bad to deserve to fall. I still pray and love the Lord, but I've gotten over that Catholicism guilt :) I've loved and lost and I'm not afraid to do it again! There's so many other things that have paved my journey and make up who I am today, but I can't write about them all.
The other day my friend asked me how does 40 feel. I told him 40 still feels like 39, but 39 has always felt like 33, and 33 still felt like 25. So there you have it. I don't know if 40 is the new 30 or whatever the saying is now, but I'm happy I don't have any gray hair, my skin isn't wrinkled, I'm healthy, my daughter is growing up to be a wonderful, young lady, my heart is at peace, my family is solid and my friends are like cups of coffee on tired mornings, warm blankets on cold nights, Patron shots, and smiles all in one. I'm basically a student of life and I love the lessons learned and always eager for the next. I have experience, but I'm not jaded. I keep getting better and I still play as if I don't have to get up and go to work the next day. My journey to 40 might not be what I expected, but oh what I ride and I wouldn't exchange all that I am today for that "dream" of what I thought would be the perfect life. My life is divinely perfect in every way. Every lesson, every experience, every act of love, every smile, every tear, every touch, every pain has been well worth it. It's not 40 years, it's the "For Dee" years and I'm so looking forward to the next "For Dee"! Who knows what's in store...maybe I'll finally make the ultimate commitment and get married. Maybe I'll have another baby. Maybe we'll own a house, with a room for each kid and a spare with the perfect kitchen and two dogs in the backyard chilling next to the pool. Who knows...the possiblities are endless!
As always, PEACE, BLESSINGS and DEE-LICOUS FUN!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Next Chapter
"You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading the last one."
I also read that this year is penned as the year of creation. Everyone has the ability to make what they want. I have to admit that there is a different feeling about this year for me. I feel excited. It's that feeling you get when you first move into a new place. Ahead of you are wonderful memories yet to be made. You get to explore a new area, create the environment that you will enjoy, meet new people, etc.
I can't say too many bad things about 2011, even though it presented many challenges for me. I cultivated a Love that began at the end of 2010 and learned so much about myself, relationships and heartbreak. I wouldn't change the experience for the world. I made some new friendships last year, learned new things professionally, but also put my health on the back burner.
This year I'm choosing to be selfish. For those that know me, this is new! I tend to put more of my energy into making sure everyone around me is okay, even when I feel like I'm dying inside. I can see everyone in their greatest light, recognize their talents and cheer them on, but I can't do the same for me. I'm way more insecure than I project and I've recognized the issues it has caused in all aspects of my life.
So, with that being said I am going to take my life to a greater level. First I am going to strengthen my relationship with Jesus. I have put so much before Him and caused myself so much unnecessary heartache and stress. I had the faith without the work. This is all part of my plan to work on ME inside and out. I'm turning 40 this month and I want to prove just how fabulous 40 really is! I'm on the path to being in the best health of my life. I'm saying it. I'm seeing it. I will live it!
It all requires vision. We can dream, but can you really SEE what you want for yourself? Sometimes it's even hard to express what you want. Fear of failure kicks in and sometimes it's easier to say you never wanted it in the first place, just in case you don't get it. Trust me, I'm the queen of this. No more!
So, I'm putting it out there. This is what I want and see for myself. I will live it. I will put the work into my faith and trust in God and Jesus Christ. The devil's greatest tool is fear and he will not use this against me. I will study the Word and put Him first. I will take care of my body and health. I will be a better role model to my daughter by doing so. I will create my catering web site and web series. I will cater many more fabulous events this year and teach others how to as well. I will do things that make my soul smile such as giving back to my community. There are families in our own city that don't have enough to eat and adults that can't read! I will nurture my relationships. Text, FB, Twitter and email are relied on too heavily as a means of social connection. I will make more phone calls this year and make time to spend with those I care about. I will grow up and be wiser with my finances. Being a single Mom is challenging. I miss the simple, special times with my daughter. More bike rides, painting and walks are in order! I am going to enjoy every minute of this time we get to spend with my Grandparents. I will write on a weekly basis because I love it. I will update my resume! I will not be afraid to tell people how I feel. I've given all past hurts to God and I'm refreshed and at peace!
Say it. See it. Live it!
Until next time...peace, blessings and Dee-licious Fun!
I just read that quote from a friend's FB page. I can completely understand and I need to listen to it. I am so guilty of re-reading. I re-read, search deep for meanings and lessons, beat myself up over past decisions and always list the woulda, coulda, shouldas. It's not necessarily all bad unless it keeps you from putting one foot in front of the other and moving on. I realize I look back more than I look forward. So, today I'm making the decision to look forward with excitement.
I also read that this year is penned as the year of creation. Everyone has the ability to make what they want. I have to admit that there is a different feeling about this year for me. I feel excited. It's that feeling you get when you first move into a new place. Ahead of you are wonderful memories yet to be made. You get to explore a new area, create the environment that you will enjoy, meet new people, etc.
I can't say too many bad things about 2011, even though it presented many challenges for me. I cultivated a Love that began at the end of 2010 and learned so much about myself, relationships and heartbreak. I wouldn't change the experience for the world. I made some new friendships last year, learned new things professionally, but also put my health on the back burner.
This year I'm choosing to be selfish. For those that know me, this is new! I tend to put more of my energy into making sure everyone around me is okay, even when I feel like I'm dying inside. I can see everyone in their greatest light, recognize their talents and cheer them on, but I can't do the same for me. I'm way more insecure than I project and I've recognized the issues it has caused in all aspects of my life.
So, with that being said I am going to take my life to a greater level. First I am going to strengthen my relationship with Jesus. I have put so much before Him and caused myself so much unnecessary heartache and stress. I had the faith without the work. This is all part of my plan to work on ME inside and out. I'm turning 40 this month and I want to prove just how fabulous 40 really is! I'm on the path to being in the best health of my life. I'm saying it. I'm seeing it. I will live it!
It all requires vision. We can dream, but can you really SEE what you want for yourself? Sometimes it's even hard to express what you want. Fear of failure kicks in and sometimes it's easier to say you never wanted it in the first place, just in case you don't get it. Trust me, I'm the queen of this. No more!
So, I'm putting it out there. This is what I want and see for myself. I will live it. I will put the work into my faith and trust in God and Jesus Christ. The devil's greatest tool is fear and he will not use this against me. I will study the Word and put Him first. I will take care of my body and health. I will be a better role model to my daughter by doing so. I will create my catering web site and web series. I will cater many more fabulous events this year and teach others how to as well. I will do things that make my soul smile such as giving back to my community. There are families in our own city that don't have enough to eat and adults that can't read! I will nurture my relationships. Text, FB, Twitter and email are relied on too heavily as a means of social connection. I will make more phone calls this year and make time to spend with those I care about. I will grow up and be wiser with my finances. Being a single Mom is challenging. I miss the simple, special times with my daughter. More bike rides, painting and walks are in order! I am going to enjoy every minute of this time we get to spend with my Grandparents. I will write on a weekly basis because I love it. I will update my resume! I will not be afraid to tell people how I feel. I've given all past hurts to God and I'm refreshed and at peace!
Say it. See it. Live it!
Until next time...peace, blessings and Dee-licious Fun!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Stop and Remember
This past July I took my daughter to NY for a month long stay with her Grandma, two Aunts and cousin, Sole. I have such a love affair with NY. The city is so full of energy and at every corner and in between there is something to see, something to laugh at, something to ponder and something to talk about. In my past trips there, I would usually go with my girlfriends. We'd sleep until noon and even though we brought suitcases full of clothes, we'd still shop all day long for outfits to wear out that night . When the night would fall, we'd eat at amazing restaurants and then party, party, party. The nights always ended with a stop at Cafeteria and cab rides back to our hotel in the wee hours of the morning, still drunk and giggling. Usually by the time we hit the elevator our heals came off and we would stagger back to our hotel rooms. The next day, our game would rewind.
This July visit was quite different. It had been awhile since I've had a summer experience in the city. It was hot, sweaty and sticky. The first couple of days, I stayed in Jersey City to get my daughter situated and spend some long over due time with her Grandma. I have to take a moment to give all praise to this woman I affectionately still call, Ms. Stewart, after almost 20 years. She is retired and spends much of her day on and off the train into the city to take her granddaughter, Sole, to camp, karate, dance lessons, etc. I don't know how she does it because I was totally exhausted. I'm very much accustomed to LA living and being able to hop into my air conditioned car with my heals on, hair down, water bottle at my side and getting to where I need to in that fashion. On day one, I thought I'd be cute in my sundress and wedges. By the time we got to the train, I quickly switched out my wedges for flip flops and my hair went up in a bun because I was sweating like I had just finished two spin classes in a row. Hot mess! After getting the girls to camp, we shopped and then went back home to rest for what seemed like 10 seconds before we were off to Target for groceries. As I pulled the cart full of bags back home, sweating like a pig,tired and dirty, I wondered if I could do this day in and day out. After putting the groceries away, we had to head back out to pick the girls up from camp and that moment, my love for NY dropped to a "like".
I spent the rest of my stay in the city at Kisha's house. Kisha is Keona's aunt, my sister and great friend. I absolutely love her Upper East side Manhattan apartment. She previously asked me to give her some cooking lessons and help her prepare a meal for her friend while I was out there. I really didn't have any "plans" beyond that and was just going with the flow. While she was at work, I did a little walking around her neighborhood and then planned to meet her for a drink. She told me we were going to a get together at a friend's house afterwards, but I didn't know much besides that. Kisha is a breast cancer survivor. Over the past almost 4 years, I've heard about her "support group", listened to details about her treatments, how she was feeling and other things that I just couldn't really appreciate over the phone, 3000 miles away. I was naive and detached about it all. I had no idea I would meet an amazing group of women at that get together that evening. Even more, I didn't know the meal she asked me to prepare would be for the most amazing couple I would ever meet in my life.
We arrived at the most beautiful home and I sat at the end of a long table filled with vegan dishes surrounded by a diverse group of cancer survivors. You could feel the love in that room. There was a sisterhood like no other. I was in awe at how this deadly disease bound such beautiful women who otherwise might not even know each other. I felt so privileged to be there. I wished I could sit one on one with each of them and just listen to their stories. The guest of honor that evening was a woman named Jennifer. When I met her I remember thinking, there's no way in hell I'd look that stunning without hair. What a shallow thought, but for those that know me, my hair is my "thing". For those women and Jennifer most of all, living and surviving is their "thing". It was a special night to say the least. I left with feelings I hadn't ever recognized before and still cannot articulate.
The organic, vegan meal I was to prepare was for Jennifer and her husband, Angelo. The other day I was talking to my friend, Roshan. She's told me this before, but two days ago she again mentioned that I show my love through my cooking. If it's just a grilled cheese or a bowl of cereal, I love to feed people and see them taste and enjoy something I've made. It's very hard for me to give someone a recipe because I never follow any. I don't even think I make the same thing, the same way each time. I go with how I feel. When I've prepared food for someone, it's not easy for me to eat it myself either. I've tasted it so much along the way and in the end, I just want you to enjoy each and every bite. When you do, that is what fills me up. The meal for Jennifer was the first time I was limited to vegan only, organic if possible and no soy. I knew I had to thoughtfully season every layer that went into the dish and I wanted so much for meat eating Kisha to enjoy it. Most of all, knowing the grueling treatments Jennifer had to endure, I hoped my little meal would give her palette something to dance for.
Kisha and I went to Jennifer's apartment to bring the dinner. I met her husband, Angelo, and we enjoyed wine, talk, food and dessert with them and Janiece who I had met at the get together. I don't think they know how overjoyed I was that they ate every bite of what I made. I don't think they know that when I got their "thank you's" on FB, it made me feel good about myself and what I enjoy doing. For whatever reason, I always question my worth and while I always feel everything I make could be better, I was so proud of that meal. It was my favorite meal and while my entire trip to NY was wonderful, that was my favorite time as well. In TV terms, it was high definition, uncut, unscripted, true, reality. They have a strength that is immeasurable. I only got to spend a couple of hours with them, but that feeling, that time, is tattooed in my heart.
I remember balling my eyes out after watching The Notebook for the first time. I wondered if I would ever know a love like that and because I can be cynical when it comes to affairs of the heart, I thought it's only in the movies. This was until I met Angelo and Jennifer. I know every couple has their ups and downs and no relationship is perfect by any means. I also didn't get to spend much time with them, but from what I observed, from what I felt as an outsider looking in, they have that real, unconditional, true and deep love/friendship and I'm so grateful to have seen it. They have made me believers again. Through their fight for life, I have learned some lessons.
I'm currently healing from a broken heart. I have to stop and remember no matter the outcome the time we shared was special. While there are days I want to curse life out for being so unfair, I have to stop and remember there are people who are fighting every minute just to live. When, I wake up in the morning and dread getting ready to go to work, I have to stop and remember there are people looking for jobs who desperately need the benefits I take for granted. When I'm upset at the traffic, I have to stop and remember I am blessed that I have a car to take me where I want and need to go because just this morning I saw a woman huddled under an umbrella with her kids at the bus stop. When I complain that I'm fat and need to diet, I have to stop and remember there are millions of children in THIS country who are suffering from hunger. When I want to complain about the Christmas shoppers, the money spent, and all the hoopla of the holidays, I have to stop and remember that I have the most wonderful family and friends to share this time with and being able to spread love and joy is worth it.
Wishing everyone peace and blessings always. Please keep those that are suffering in any way in your hearts and prayers. LIFE IS A BLESSING.
I spent the rest of my stay in the city at Kisha's house. Kisha is Keona's aunt, my sister and great friend. I absolutely love her Upper East side Manhattan apartment. She previously asked me to give her some cooking lessons and help her prepare a meal for her friend while I was out there. I really didn't have any "plans" beyond that and was just going with the flow. While she was at work, I did a little walking around her neighborhood and then planned to meet her for a drink. She told me we were going to a get together at a friend's house afterwards, but I didn't know much besides that. Kisha is a breast cancer survivor. Over the past almost 4 years, I've heard about her "support group", listened to details about her treatments, how she was feeling and other things that I just couldn't really appreciate over the phone, 3000 miles away. I was naive and detached about it all. I had no idea I would meet an amazing group of women at that get together that evening. Even more, I didn't know the meal she asked me to prepare would be for the most amazing couple I would ever meet in my life.
We arrived at the most beautiful home and I sat at the end of a long table filled with vegan dishes surrounded by a diverse group of cancer survivors. You could feel the love in that room. There was a sisterhood like no other. I was in awe at how this deadly disease bound such beautiful women who otherwise might not even know each other. I felt so privileged to be there. I wished I could sit one on one with each of them and just listen to their stories. The guest of honor that evening was a woman named Jennifer. When I met her I remember thinking, there's no way in hell I'd look that stunning without hair. What a shallow thought, but for those that know me, my hair is my "thing". For those women and Jennifer most of all, living and surviving is their "thing". It was a special night to say the least. I left with feelings I hadn't ever recognized before and still cannot articulate.
The organic, vegan meal I was to prepare was for Jennifer and her husband, Angelo. The other day I was talking to my friend, Roshan. She's told me this before, but two days ago she again mentioned that I show my love through my cooking. If it's just a grilled cheese or a bowl of cereal, I love to feed people and see them taste and enjoy something I've made. It's very hard for me to give someone a recipe because I never follow any. I don't even think I make the same thing, the same way each time. I go with how I feel. When I've prepared food for someone, it's not easy for me to eat it myself either. I've tasted it so much along the way and in the end, I just want you to enjoy each and every bite. When you do, that is what fills me up. The meal for Jennifer was the first time I was limited to vegan only, organic if possible and no soy. I knew I had to thoughtfully season every layer that went into the dish and I wanted so much for meat eating Kisha to enjoy it. Most of all, knowing the grueling treatments Jennifer had to endure, I hoped my little meal would give her palette something to dance for.
Kisha and I went to Jennifer's apartment to bring the dinner. I met her husband, Angelo, and we enjoyed wine, talk, food and dessert with them and Janiece who I had met at the get together. I don't think they know how overjoyed I was that they ate every bite of what I made. I don't think they know that when I got their "thank you's" on FB, it made me feel good about myself and what I enjoy doing. For whatever reason, I always question my worth and while I always feel everything I make could be better, I was so proud of that meal. It was my favorite meal and while my entire trip to NY was wonderful, that was my favorite time as well. In TV terms, it was high definition, uncut, unscripted, true, reality. They have a strength that is immeasurable. I only got to spend a couple of hours with them, but that feeling, that time, is tattooed in my heart.
I remember balling my eyes out after watching The Notebook for the first time. I wondered if I would ever know a love like that and because I can be cynical when it comes to affairs of the heart, I thought it's only in the movies. This was until I met Angelo and Jennifer. I know every couple has their ups and downs and no relationship is perfect by any means. I also didn't get to spend much time with them, but from what I observed, from what I felt as an outsider looking in, they have that real, unconditional, true and deep love/friendship and I'm so grateful to have seen it. They have made me believers again. Through their fight for life, I have learned some lessons.
I'm currently healing from a broken heart. I have to stop and remember no matter the outcome the time we shared was special. While there are days I want to curse life out for being so unfair, I have to stop and remember there are people who are fighting every minute just to live. When, I wake up in the morning and dread getting ready to go to work, I have to stop and remember there are people looking for jobs who desperately need the benefits I take for granted. When I'm upset at the traffic, I have to stop and remember I am blessed that I have a car to take me where I want and need to go because just this morning I saw a woman huddled under an umbrella with her kids at the bus stop. When I complain that I'm fat and need to diet, I have to stop and remember there are millions of children in THIS country who are suffering from hunger. When I want to complain about the Christmas shoppers, the money spent, and all the hoopla of the holidays, I have to stop and remember that I have the most wonderful family and friends to share this time with and being able to spread love and joy is worth it.
Wishing everyone peace and blessings always. Please keep those that are suffering in any way in your hearts and prayers. LIFE IS A BLESSING.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Pour Yourself a Glass
Last week I forwarded one of Rev Run's Words Of Wisdom quotes to a friend. It was about figuring out what makes you happy and then simply DOING IT. I loved it. It's simple, but why some of us make it hard on ourselves, I don't know. I'm guilty too! My friend's reply was, "yeah, simple, but money and time are a factor." Jeez, got negative much?! I shared the fact that I feel my happiest moments often had nothing to do with money and took little time.
Some defining moments in my life are obvious. Becoming a mother. Falling in love. Graduating. Learning to drive. Getting promoted. Standing in front of Maxwell at his concert at the Grammy museum. And the list goes on. Those moments certainly deserve value and recognition, but I'll get into detail in another blog. Not today.
Today, I want to pay homage to those priceless moments. The moments that bring me happiness and break my hectic life down to breaths of peace. Despite some rough times, I'm not so jaded and do recognize what makes me happy.
Recently, I've been afforded the opportunity to spend more time with my Grandparents. It's the silver lining to a painful event in my life. Isn't life grand to hand you a little sugar with the salt? My Grandparents are in their 80's and I know I don't have much time with them, so I'm holding on to these moments with both hands. I am blessed. The other night, I walked down the hallway and could see my Grandfather in his room sitting in front of the television watching baseball. I think it's SO cute that my grandparents still bicker at each other, still watch tv together, still eat together. It's amazing. This particular night, my Grandma was washing her face as my Grandpa watched tv. As I neared their room, I said, "Hi Dad" (I affectionately call my Grandparents Mom and Dad). He looked up from the TV and had a very sweet look on his face while he said, "Hi!" He said it in a way that I interpreted as, "I'm happy you're here." Every fiber of my body smiled. It was a moment that I wish I could bottle up and put on a shelf for the next time I need a pick-me-up. It was just what I needed and right on time.
My daughter will be 13 in March. Every day I hope to make it through without having to bitch her out or repeat myself a hundred times. That girl tests all my patience. Since the day she was born to last night, however, when I see her sleep, I want to shed tears of joy. It is honestly the most peaceful sight ever. Often, I end up kissing all over her face because I am so proud to be her Mom. It never fails that when I do that, she doesn’t wake up being mad. She always gives me a sleepy smile and says, “I love you, Mommy.” That girl sure knows how to make me feel guilty for being a meanie during the day.
There is a man that I love. He is simple and complex. Half the time I can’t read him or figure him out, but if I were blindfolded, I could still tell you if he’s in the room. My senses dance when he’s near. I swear I can feel this man in my bones. He’s a man of few words, but there have been numerous times when I would walk into the room and his glance said it all. His eyes tell me I’m beautiful inside and out. His smile makes me feel lucky to know him. It’s in those moments, words are unnecessary. In those moments, nothing else matters.
I have a dear friend who is my rock. She prays for me and lifts me up when I’m at my lowest. We don’t see each other often and don’t need to. We don’t even talk regularly, but when we do, the conversation picks up as if we just got disconnected. There have been countless times during our friendship that I feel like she can hear my soul calling her. I’ll have challenging days and suddenly I’ll get an email from her filled with encouraging words and a note that she was just thinking about me. Her role in my life is priceless. She is a part of my makeup and one of the greatest teachers God has gifted me with. I wish I could gather up all of the words she has shared with me and put them in a song. I would walk about this life with it on repeat and let my soul sing.
It’s a blessing to have the ability to know what makes you happy. While I always believe in striving for better, don’t forget to pay equal attention to the blessings you already hold. I’m certain everyone is surrounded by beauty that doesn’t rob us of precious time and money. For me they are in smiles from strangers. Glances. Random acts of kindness, given and received. Watching elderly couples walk hand in hand. Smelling a baking cake. Looking up at a red light and noticing the sky is painted in beautiful hues. Listening to the radio and an oldie but goodie comes on. Getting a whiff of a perfume or cologne that can awaken memories of precious times. Laughter from babies. Sea breezes, crashing waves and warm sand in my toes. Hellos. Bear hugs. Laughing until you cry. Scratching that itch. Writing. Being still. Singing loudly in the car. Kisses on the neck. Complements about my cooking!
Each day brings new possibilities. I challenge you to identify what brings you happiness. When you do, bottle them up and put them on the shelf. When life gets hectic, pour yourself a glass. You deserve it!
As always, wishing you PEACE, BLESSINGS and Deelicious Fun!
Some defining moments in my life are obvious. Becoming a mother. Falling in love. Graduating. Learning to drive. Getting promoted. Standing in front of Maxwell at his concert at the Grammy museum. And the list goes on. Those moments certainly deserve value and recognition, but I'll get into detail in another blog. Not today.
Today, I want to pay homage to those priceless moments. The moments that bring me happiness and break my hectic life down to breaths of peace. Despite some rough times, I'm not so jaded and do recognize what makes me happy.
Recently, I've been afforded the opportunity to spend more time with my Grandparents. It's the silver lining to a painful event in my life. Isn't life grand to hand you a little sugar with the salt? My Grandparents are in their 80's and I know I don't have much time with them, so I'm holding on to these moments with both hands. I am blessed. The other night, I walked down the hallway and could see my Grandfather in his room sitting in front of the television watching baseball. I think it's SO cute that my grandparents still bicker at each other, still watch tv together, still eat together. It's amazing. This particular night, my Grandma was washing her face as my Grandpa watched tv. As I neared their room, I said, "Hi Dad" (I affectionately call my Grandparents Mom and Dad). He looked up from the TV and had a very sweet look on his face while he said, "Hi!" He said it in a way that I interpreted as, "I'm happy you're here." Every fiber of my body smiled. It was a moment that I wish I could bottle up and put on a shelf for the next time I need a pick-me-up. It was just what I needed and right on time.
My daughter will be 13 in March. Every day I hope to make it through without having to bitch her out or repeat myself a hundred times. That girl tests all my patience. Since the day she was born to last night, however, when I see her sleep, I want to shed tears of joy. It is honestly the most peaceful sight ever. Often, I end up kissing all over her face because I am so proud to be her Mom. It never fails that when I do that, she doesn’t wake up being mad. She always gives me a sleepy smile and says, “I love you, Mommy.” That girl sure knows how to make me feel guilty for being a meanie during the day.
There is a man that I love. He is simple and complex. Half the time I can’t read him or figure him out, but if I were blindfolded, I could still tell you if he’s in the room. My senses dance when he’s near. I swear I can feel this man in my bones. He’s a man of few words, but there have been numerous times when I would walk into the room and his glance said it all. His eyes tell me I’m beautiful inside and out. His smile makes me feel lucky to know him. It’s in those moments, words are unnecessary. In those moments, nothing else matters.
I have a dear friend who is my rock. She prays for me and lifts me up when I’m at my lowest. We don’t see each other often and don’t need to. We don’t even talk regularly, but when we do, the conversation picks up as if we just got disconnected. There have been countless times during our friendship that I feel like she can hear my soul calling her. I’ll have challenging days and suddenly I’ll get an email from her filled with encouraging words and a note that she was just thinking about me. Her role in my life is priceless. She is a part of my makeup and one of the greatest teachers God has gifted me with. I wish I could gather up all of the words she has shared with me and put them in a song. I would walk about this life with it on repeat and let my soul sing.
It’s a blessing to have the ability to know what makes you happy. While I always believe in striving for better, don’t forget to pay equal attention to the blessings you already hold. I’m certain everyone is surrounded by beauty that doesn’t rob us of precious time and money. For me they are in smiles from strangers. Glances. Random acts of kindness, given and received. Watching elderly couples walk hand in hand. Smelling a baking cake. Looking up at a red light and noticing the sky is painted in beautiful hues. Listening to the radio and an oldie but goodie comes on. Getting a whiff of a perfume or cologne that can awaken memories of precious times. Laughter from babies. Sea breezes, crashing waves and warm sand in my toes. Hellos. Bear hugs. Laughing until you cry. Scratching that itch. Writing. Being still. Singing loudly in the car. Kisses on the neck. Complements about my cooking!
Each day brings new possibilities. I challenge you to identify what brings you happiness. When you do, bottle them up and put them on the shelf. When life gets hectic, pour yourself a glass. You deserve it!
As always, wishing you PEACE, BLESSINGS and Deelicious Fun!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
20 Weeks, 40 Years
I remember a time when I thought 40 was "old". Growing up, I figured by the time I'm 40, I would be married with 3 kids, own a home and have a successful career to top it all off. My weekends would consist of shopping at Costco, home projects, driving the kids to their various activities, and date nights with my husband. In reality, my life does not resemble that "dream/vision" whatsoever. Where did I go wrong, or did I?!
God willing, I will celebrate 40 years of life in exactly 20 weeks from today. I've never been one to dread an upcoming birthday, but this milestone is a little harder to swallow. Remember when the year 2000 was approaching and we didn't know what was going to happen? Some feared computers would crash, money in the bank would be lost forever and it would be pure mayhem. I have a similar feeling about my 40th birthday. I always imagined 40 to be the age where you should have your shit together already and since mine isn't, I'll deem myself a failure.
Soon, I can't honestly check the 35-39 box. I'll probably have to start looking into anti aging creams. If I date a 29 year old, will I be considered a cougar? Will gray hair start appearing? Even worse, my biological clock is doing more than ticking. It's straight sounding off right about now. I think that's the hardest part about maturity (don't you like my choice of words?) for a woman. While I've gone through fazes of wondering if I'd want another child, I do want to keep that option. I want to be able to control that choice.
The next 20 weeks will be about re-evaluation. Even though I imagined something else at 40, is that what I really want? Was I measuring success and accomplishment against someone else's ruler? Perhaps. This is what I set out to discover. My life is filled with so much beauty and love as it is and I don't want to discredit all the lessons life has taught me thus far. I want to keep learning. I want to keep the pursuit of happiness alive. What if I had accomplished those things already? Would I feel like, "What now?"
One of my favorite quotes is, "It's not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away." I've had so many breath taking moments in my 39 years and 32 weeks of living. I am blessed and look forward to many more. In the next 20 weeks I'm going to identify and write about those moments. When January 31st comes, I plan on celebrating all of those moments and toasting to those that have yet to come. No failures!
As always, I wish you peace, blessings and deelicious fun.
God willing, I will celebrate 40 years of life in exactly 20 weeks from today. I've never been one to dread an upcoming birthday, but this milestone is a little harder to swallow. Remember when the year 2000 was approaching and we didn't know what was going to happen? Some feared computers would crash, money in the bank would be lost forever and it would be pure mayhem. I have a similar feeling about my 40th birthday. I always imagined 40 to be the age where you should have your shit together already and since mine isn't, I'll deem myself a failure.
Soon, I can't honestly check the 35-39 box. I'll probably have to start looking into anti aging creams. If I date a 29 year old, will I be considered a cougar? Will gray hair start appearing? Even worse, my biological clock is doing more than ticking. It's straight sounding off right about now. I think that's the hardest part about maturity (don't you like my choice of words?) for a woman. While I've gone through fazes of wondering if I'd want another child, I do want to keep that option. I want to be able to control that choice.
The next 20 weeks will be about re-evaluation. Even though I imagined something else at 40, is that what I really want? Was I measuring success and accomplishment against someone else's ruler? Perhaps. This is what I set out to discover. My life is filled with so much beauty and love as it is and I don't want to discredit all the lessons life has taught me thus far. I want to keep learning. I want to keep the pursuit of happiness alive. What if I had accomplished those things already? Would I feel like, "What now?"
One of my favorite quotes is, "It's not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away." I've had so many breath taking moments in my 39 years and 32 weeks of living. I am blessed and look forward to many more. In the next 20 weeks I'm going to identify and write about those moments. When January 31st comes, I plan on celebrating all of those moments and toasting to those that have yet to come. No failures!
As always, I wish you peace, blessings and deelicious fun.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Strong like a Rose
Today is my Grandmother's 82nd birthday! This woman has seen and experienced so much in her 82 years of living. She's kind, sweet, fierce, strong and when necessary, ruthless. She has more energy in her little 5 ft body than I do. I think I'm being kind when I say she's 5 ft tall, however.
I believe I owe a great many of my personality traits to my Grandmother. Some of them are probably by way of my Mom, but we all come from, Rose. She's been married to my Grandfather for 62 or 63 years now and that is an accomplishment in itself. I love that they will still complain about one another! He says she does nothing but nag, nag, nag and she says he gets on her nerves. It's all comical to me.
She raised 5 children of her own and countless neighborhood children. She has 8 grandchildren (me being the oldest) and 2 great grandchildren. She got her first job at the Mervyn's behind their house at the young age of 50. She used to pass out the numbers in the dressing room. She eventually retired from there! Every day she would walk to work and if it was late when she'd get off, my Grandpa would meet her there or their old dog, Tidus. It was the cutest because my Grandpa would tell Tidus to go get "Mom" and he would run to Mervyn's and wait at the side door for her to come out.
Besides the occasional annoyance with my Grandpa, I've never heard this woman complain. She rarely even likes to tell anyone what she wants. For birthdays and Mother's Day, you usually have to pay close attention to what she says to figure out what she wants. She would never ask, though. One year before Mother's Day I remember her saying, "I like the Grove." There it was, the clue that she wanted to go to the Grove.
When she was growing up she's had to endure things that today, I just couldn't imagine. For instance, when the Japanese were taking over Guam, my Grandma and her family hid in caves to save their lives because the Chamorros on the island were being killed off. She told me stories of having to leave the cave at night to search for food to eat. My aunts and uncles have told me stories of them not having much money growing up and my Grandma would always find creative ways to provide, like using rice to glue school projects and lipsticks as crayons. She can grow anything in her garden and it blooms. I recall her bringing what I thought was a very dead orchard back to life. It's her touch...she has that certain magic.
She's had to hold the family together when a gambling addiction threatened to take all they had. She's been by my Grandfather's side through his many heart surgeries and always nurses him back to health, all the while keeping our heavy hearts light. Once I rushed to the hospital when my Grandfather was having an emergency surgery. Everyone looked worried and most of us were crying. She sat there quietly. No tears. No worry. She saw how upset I was and simply said to me, "Just pray." When I was 26, I was so scared to tell her I was pregnant because I wasn't married. See, she is a devout Catholic who has a mini alter complete with statues of Mary and Jesus in her bedroom. Every morning and night she can be found on her knees praying. I finally mustered up the nerve to tell her and to my surprise she said,"It's okay, Dee, you'll get married later." I never did get married, but she never held it against me and Keona loves, loves, loves her Nana.
Today and always I celebrate this special woman. I hope and pray that I can be as strong and resilient as she. I hope I can make lumpia, red rice and carrot cake just half as well as she does. Actually, I hope to do everything with that special touch that she possesses. I am so proud to know I am a part of her and so is my daughter. I could go on and on with stories about this lady, but I think I'll save it for a book. :)
As always, peace, blessings and Deelicious Fun! Happy Birthday, Mom!!
I believe I owe a great many of my personality traits to my Grandmother. Some of them are probably by way of my Mom, but we all come from, Rose. She's been married to my Grandfather for 62 or 63 years now and that is an accomplishment in itself. I love that they will still complain about one another! He says she does nothing but nag, nag, nag and she says he gets on her nerves. It's all comical to me.
She raised 5 children of her own and countless neighborhood children. She has 8 grandchildren (me being the oldest) and 2 great grandchildren. She got her first job at the Mervyn's behind their house at the young age of 50. She used to pass out the numbers in the dressing room. She eventually retired from there! Every day she would walk to work and if it was late when she'd get off, my Grandpa would meet her there or their old dog, Tidus. It was the cutest because my Grandpa would tell Tidus to go get "Mom" and he would run to Mervyn's and wait at the side door for her to come out.
Besides the occasional annoyance with my Grandpa, I've never heard this woman complain. She rarely even likes to tell anyone what she wants. For birthdays and Mother's Day, you usually have to pay close attention to what she says to figure out what she wants. She would never ask, though. One year before Mother's Day I remember her saying, "I like the Grove." There it was, the clue that she wanted to go to the Grove.
When she was growing up she's had to endure things that today, I just couldn't imagine. For instance, when the Japanese were taking over Guam, my Grandma and her family hid in caves to save their lives because the Chamorros on the island were being killed off. She told me stories of having to leave the cave at night to search for food to eat. My aunts and uncles have told me stories of them not having much money growing up and my Grandma would always find creative ways to provide, like using rice to glue school projects and lipsticks as crayons. She can grow anything in her garden and it blooms. I recall her bringing what I thought was a very dead orchard back to life. It's her touch...she has that certain magic.
She's had to hold the family together when a gambling addiction threatened to take all they had. She's been by my Grandfather's side through his many heart surgeries and always nurses him back to health, all the while keeping our heavy hearts light. Once I rushed to the hospital when my Grandfather was having an emergency surgery. Everyone looked worried and most of us were crying. She sat there quietly. No tears. No worry. She saw how upset I was and simply said to me, "Just pray." When I was 26, I was so scared to tell her I was pregnant because I wasn't married. See, she is a devout Catholic who has a mini alter complete with statues of Mary and Jesus in her bedroom. Every morning and night she can be found on her knees praying. I finally mustered up the nerve to tell her and to my surprise she said,"It's okay, Dee, you'll get married later." I never did get married, but she never held it against me and Keona loves, loves, loves her Nana.
Today and always I celebrate this special woman. I hope and pray that I can be as strong and resilient as she. I hope I can make lumpia, red rice and carrot cake just half as well as she does. Actually, I hope to do everything with that special touch that she possesses. I am so proud to know I am a part of her and so is my daughter. I could go on and on with stories about this lady, but I think I'll save it for a book. :)
As always, peace, blessings and Deelicious Fun! Happy Birthday, Mom!!
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