Yup, that is definitely a different song you hear. It's Amerie's song Touch of her latest album of the same name. I've just recently become an Amerie fan. I listened to a friend's copy of her latest cd and decided to downlo...er...buy my own copy. It's really great. There's another song I wanted to have play, but I figured I'd give the slow songs a break. I was told by someone once that they preferred upbeat songs. Can't get more upbeat than a Lil' Jon produced song. Heck, he's a flipping genius!!! How else can you explain him being able to sell the same beat to like 7 artists (Usher, Amerie, Peety Pablo, and Ciara to name a few)????
Moving on...
While reading through my latest edition of Business 2.0 I came upon some interesting facts. These four facts are from the book, Freakonomics A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner.
Money can replace morals. To deter parents from picking kids up late, a day-care center fined them $3 per child for each infraction. But the number of latecomers doubled, because "parents could buy off their guilt."
Legalizing abortion lessened crime. Levitt presents compelling evidence that Roe v. Wade-in reducing the number of potential criminals born-had a far greater impact on the early-1990s drop in crime than gun control, the strong economy, or improved police tactics.
Semantics sells. In real estate ads, specific words like "granite" and "gourmet" fetch higher home prcies, while vague descriptions like "charming" and "great neighborhood" drive values down.
Drug dealing is harder than you think. A crack dealer earning a paltry $3.30 an hour has a higher chance of being killed (1 in 4) than a Texas death row inmate (1 in 20).
Wow, Okay, I was playing Splinter Cell with my TV on and heard Rosie O'donnell. She was promoting her new TV movie. Well, I also caught that she has a blog. So I decided to do a google search, and sure enough, Rosie's blog was right here on blogspot! I added the link to the right there ---> under LINKS. Her blog has moved to rosie.com as of two weeks ago. You can reach it by clicking on the link I have for you. I'm only 10 entries in and am impressed. She seems to make at least on entry a day. She speaks from her heart and it is completely unedited. Her own words: "*the unedited rantings of a fat 43 year old menopausal ex -talk show host * -married mother of four- read at your own risk - my spelling sux (add * ocd * adhd * lmnop * suv * dvd * y not me)" I've teared up 3 times already. She is an amazing woman. I've always thought so, but this blog of hers reaffirms my opinion. I loved her when she was in the closet and I love her even more now that she's out. Fighting for what she believes in. Fighting for other's out there who may not have found their voice yet. I challenge each and every one of you to visit her blog, and just read the first 10 entries and then try and say anything bad about her as a human being. Forget that she's gay and in your eyes it's wrong and you believe its wrong in the eyes of your God. Strip every religion down to its core and the universal message is to love one another. If 10 entries scares you, then please read these three: GAY FOSTER MOM, TEXAS, and MARVEL. I've actually been slapped in the face with something that shames me a little to say I am from Texas. Shame on TEXAS and those who stood behind the bill...you know who you are! I'll end this with another Rosie quote: "gay is ok - it's factory installed - like a sun roof - not much one can do about it - lefty, blue eyed, short, gay, freckles - it just is"
~Lady Musiq~
Pressed by a Fairie // 2:49 AM
It has been brought to my attention that I have once again lapsed in my blogging. I understand and recognize that my last entry was four days ago. I'm just in a really weird place right now. I am trying to figure out the things and people in my life. What purpose do they serve? Are they really necessary? How would my life be w/o the things/persons in my life? I am a bit torn between wanting to keep my blog as real as I am and wanting to keep what I am dealing with out of a public spectrum. Translation: I've been writing in my "real world" journal. I just feel that through me, visitors to my blog are indelibly linked. I wouldn't want what may be going on between me and someone else to become public fodder. Especially when it really doesn't pertain to others...I will say that I am definitely selfish. I don't need others to point it out, because I am (thankfully) well intune to myself. I know me better than others know themselves. With that said, I'm interested in going into police work. I've been juggling and taking classes that will lead towards a degree in Criminal Psychology or that could branch off into Field Forensics. I enjoy the process of figuring what is inside a person's head. What makes them tick, and what their weaknesses are....Being in any law enforcement capacity would demand a lot of my time. Time I wouldn't be able to spend with my loved ones. Where is this going? Well, I am no good on the receiving end of a situation like that. One where I'd be at home, w/o the other person around. What's worse is that I see both sides of it. I can understand a person has a job to do. I also understand that if that job is stressful, when they do find themselves w/ a few minutes, they'd want to relax or do something alone. Yet, I also get pissed and feel like if all you have is a few moments, I'd want to get in as much "together" time as we could. Rather than you going off and play a game or read or something else. Especially if getting to speak is a rarity in itself. Hence where my selfishness comes into play. I understand all too well about solitude, because I am that way myself. I've been an introvert since...well...birth really. I'm most happy when I am doing single-person things. By single, I mean one. I am an avid reader, writer, and music fan. I'm happier at home, surrounded by the familiar. My own mother is awed by the fact that her daughter (actually) enjoys going out to eat by herself at times. I also enjoy going to movies by myself every once in a while. I think it is fun to sit down and enjoy a meal, without having to worry about holding or carrying a conversation. I like to go and people watch. I enjoy overhearing conversations while wonderful food plays havoc on my palate and tastebuds. When others were discovering a mall for the first time, I was in my room, reading, writing, or listening to music. When girls and boys were discovering girls and boys, I was playing softball, working harder than anyone, to make it onto the All*Stars team. When guys and gals, at 17/18, started sneaking into clubs and drinking illegally, I was coaching little league and enrolled in dual-credit classes. Aw heck, I don't even know what my point is anymore... Life back home seems to be moving right along. I found out that Vince is no longer w/ my former employer. He's decided to focus on the business he and his wife began a few years ago. They have a specialty store in a mall. Ida is looking to move ahead in the company, and I will be welcomed back with open arms. I'm excited because one of my fave managers, Sylvia, is now heading up my area. It should be fun working with her. She has the cutest Spanish accent! She's a fellow Islander. Ronnie and Manny are on baby number two. They've been together for a longtime now. They were married in Mexico (where Manny is from), but didn't do the full-on wedding until 2 years ago. It seems that that signaled the opening of the baby-making factory! I can't wait. I'll actually be there for the birth of this one. We're hoping for a girl, to go with the boy they already have. Either way, we're all really just hoping for another healthy baby. Oh, and Victoria, the quintessential cow, finally got her boyfriend of double-digit years, to pop the question. Thank goodness. When I go back, I won't have to hear about how she can feel the proposal coming. It took us all by surprise actually. All this time he's been getting it all for free...And no, that statement wasn't me passing judgment on pre-marital sex. If you know me then you know that too. It's just that if you've been dating, having sex, and then you move in together, what's the point of marriage? Most guys would be happy with the situation as it were. Others could also argue, that if he'd be happy either way, then he shouldn't have a problem making her happy and going through the motions and expenses of a wedding. Which I agree with also. For all the feminist (and those in training *wink, wink*), I know there are those of you who don't think marriage is a necessary step and I know there are men who actually push for marriage. I'm merely speaking about one couple and one woman I know. Also, those who might think I am ballsy or heartless for putting Vicky out there like that, no one connected to Victoria reads this blog or even knows about it, except for Ida. I don't have to worry about her because she and I are one in the same. Whether it's Vicky, friends, shopping, men, and all that's in between. I'll be in Tampa beginning today through Sunday, possibly Monday. So I don't know when I'll be able to update the blog. When I do, yall'll (<-country grammer for: yall will) be the first to know. ~~Anaeli~
Pressed by a Fairie // 5:29 AM
I had THE best time today!! I surprised my dad with tickets to the Devil Rays vs. Red Sox game today. He thought we were going to an art exhibit! LOL. As a matter of fact, as we're approaching the exit for Tropicana Field, I see a billboard advertising for an exhibit and the exit was the same...so it helped me play it off! After driving around for 45 mins. looking for parking (cause the lots filled up), we found a nice free spot within walking distance. The place was packed. The only other times I've seen the seats filled like that were when the Yanks were in town!! The crowd was straight up rowdy too. I thought Yankees fans were loud and aggressive. We have NOTHING on Dead Sox fans. Any way, the game started off great with 3 runs in for the Sox before the 3rd inning! What happened in the bottom of the 6th inning (which carried over to the 7th) is something all sports fans hope to see...The freaking benches cleared out! D. Rays pitcher, Carter, threw the ball right by the head of David Ortiz. Thus causing Ortiz to fall on his butt. He gets up and begins to charge the mound and then EVERY PLAYER was on the field. MAN OH MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hats were thrown off and in all directions. Gloves were tossed aside, forgotten, even before they hit the dirt. Apparently the pitch (which was the 2nd pitch thrown AT the batter) was (still) in retaliation for the Sox pitcher, Arroyo, hitting one of our guys. Arroyo was given a warning in the 6th inning and when Carter threw at Ramirez he too was given a warning. Since this was now his second offense, our pitcher was ejected from the game, along with manager Lou Pinella. Trot Nixon from the Sox was ejected for pointing at the pitcher after they had calmed everyone down. Okay, we get our 3 outs and we're due up to bat. First pitch from Arroyo almost BEANS one of the D. Rays. Both benches clear out AGAIN. E-X-C-I-T-I-N-G I tell ya! Arroyo is now ejected from the game as well as the Sox manager Terry Francona. Also ejected was one of the D. Rays pitchers, Brazelton. Everyone get that? That's 6 players ejected from the game. I have it all on film...well...digi cam card thingie...Oh, I also got to witness my FIRST, live, GRAND SLAM! Bases loaded, after the fiasco with the pitchers, and up walks a Sox batter. He knocks the CRAP out of the ball. I was completely mesmerized. My team was losing, miserably, but that was seriously cool. The VERY next batter hits a solo-home run. So the Dead Sox won, 11-3, but the game was still fantastic. Everything I could ever ask for...well, almost. I was hoping that when our pitcher was ejected, and the new one was brought in to pitch to Ortiz, that he would've HIT HIM!!!! Could you imagine the riots? LMAO!!! I was sitting on the hometeam's side and was (still) surrounded by Sox fans. YUCK. Any way, my dad had a great time too. He was just as stoked as I was about the entire game. Can't wait until next week. I get to bust out my Yankees cap, jersey, and glove. They'll be here May 2-5. I'll be seeing 2 of the 4 games live. YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY! K, I'm off to give my undivided attention to the 1st game of the Western conference. Yes folks, that means the Spurs are playing. Peace.
~Baseball's Lady~~Basketball's Mistress~
Pressed by a Fairie // 8:32 PM
I was going to go ONE week without updating the blog, so that those who visit my blog at random would see the message, but I've changed my mind. Someone has signed me up for Astrology.com daily emails and I believe it might have been my sister...She has been all about the .com place for the last week. Yes, I read my horoscope every once in a while. Though, I never read it at the start of my day. I read it at the end, so I can see if anything matches up. It's usually right on point. Any way, this is what I found in my box today:
"Dear Isla,
This Sunday, we're seeing the first of 2005's two lunar eclipses. Very early in the morning, the Earth's silhouette will pass in front of the Moon, shadowing out its light, but you'll begin to feel the effects 24 hours earlier. This eclipse is focused on Scorpio, the sign of sexuality and the paranormal -- quite the exciting combination! Scorpio is the most secretive and ambiguous sign of the zodiac, and you'll certainly feel a sense of mystery this weekend. You'll also feel a detached focus on yourself, as the illumination of the Moon, which rules our emotions, will be blocked. It's an excellent time to take a step back from the details of your life to see the whole picture."
Just thought I'd post that for any other Scorps out there who may happen upon this entry.Well, The Beast's 25th birthday is coming up. May 1st to be exact. I've been trying to decide on a gift for him. He and I only exchange gifts on milestone birthdays, i.e. 18th, 20th, 21st, 25th, 30th, etc... Why? Because we tend to splurge when it comes to one another and it would get pretty darn expensive. We do give cards every year though and on occasion a gag gift or a small one...So for his 21st B.Day I bought him this L.E. Kenneth Cole watch and since it's been a good four years, I'm thinking about getting him this amazing, tan, Kenneth Cole suit I saw in the men's mag, Cargo. It's featured as one of the Summer's Suitables for warm-weather. I figure it's a practical gift, considering he doesn't own a suit, for one. And two, now that his cd is finished and he'll be shopping it around, he'll need to look sharp. And three, it's the absolute best thing (not to mention a turn-on) to see someone* wear something you picked out! If we go shopping and I put together an outfit for you and you/I end up buying it, the next time you wear it, I'll be cheesin' the entire time. I don't care if you're a man or woman. *Turned-on only by a man* Had to throw that disclaimer out there :) What I am chewing on is that the suit will barely cost more than the watch! Any way, Beast is an excellent dresser. I think in all the years I've known him, he's only disappointed me twice. Thank goodness I got my hands on those TH Overalls!!! LOL, come to think of it, I still have them...packed in storage somewhere...I know Rayne, neither the watch or the suit can compare to the COACH watch AND matching wallet you received for Christmas...LMAO!!!! Had to take that shot. Forgive me. BTW, I guess "X" took the hint. He hasn't checked my blog again nor has he emailed me. YAAAAAAAAAY!
Any way, I heard from a little birdie that some of my friends in SA are pooling their money and getting me a welcome home gift. One that I've been dying to get too! We'll see... I've been making CDs all day. I've got this Reggaeton Mix CD that I put together, and it's pretty hot! Ciara, 50, Usher, J.Lo, Alicia Keys. Actually, A. Keys' Karma (Reggaeton mix) is going to be my next song. I've kept Mariah's song playing even though my mood has been in another area for a min., but I LOVE the song! Oh yeah, who knew or would've thought, that Brooke Valentine, of Girlfight fame, could actually sing?? I'm not saying ALL of her songs are great, just that I am pleased to have found that she can really blow. Well, that's it from me for now. I'll be posting a poem a little later.
~Lady Musiq~
Pressed by a Fairie // 9:08 PM
If you've sat in front of a TV lately, then you may have seen the Public Service Announcement for the ONE Campaign. It's a campaign to get Americans to lend their voices and to bring awareness and hopefully change in the fight against global AIDS , extreme poverty, and education, to name a few of the many causes. If you scroll down a bit and look to the left, I have posted two banners in support of the ONE campaign. If you'd like to learn more and see what your voice can do, click on either banner and it will take you to the website. There's a Take Action check list of things we as Americans can do to become fully involved in the ONE Campaign:
1. Sign The Declaration ( lending your voice to the fight...an electronic signature) *CHECK*
2. Email Your Friends (once you've signed the declaration, it'll give you the option to pass it along to your friends) *CHECK*
3. Wear The Wristband (white wristband w/ the word "ONE" on it, ala Lance Armstrong's yellow one (which I also have) you may order it online) *CHECK*
4. Get Local (Get involved in the ONE campaign in your community) *Currently looking into projects here in Florida and in Texas, so when I move I can just jump right in*
5. Host A Banner (Add an ad banner for the ONE Campaign to your website) *CHECK x's 2*
I know we all feel like there isn't enough time in the day as it is, but I bet if we skipped something we deem as a necessity, i.e. a hair/nail appt. or if we didn't indulge in a trip to the movies, we could find the time to contribute to this cause. To any cause really. It's about prioritizing and making a commitment and sticking to it. There are so many people in need and so much that can be done. Educating those around us is the first step. Most people will sit back and think their voice or opinions won't make a difference. Here's something that says otherwise...
I first heard the name, Kassandra Okvath, while watching an episode of the abc show Extreme Makeovers: Home Edition. What made this episode more special than the others was that Kassandra, an 8 year old who's battled cancer, is the one who made the video. Only, she wasn't asking for her home to be made over. In the video she sent to the show's producers, Kassandra's simple, selfless request was that she wished that the children struggling with illness at the University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona -- where she has been receiving treatment -- might be given something very special. She asked if the walls of the hospital could be painted for sick kids because, as she said, "Sometimes that's the last things they see." Throughout the show while a crew was working at the hospital, a secret crew was redoing her very own home. It would be a surprise to her and her family. Also in the episode was background information on Kassandra and her fight against cancer and what she's been doing to help other children. She created the Love Comes First Foundation. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Her heart, and mission, is to enhance the quality of life for children fighting cancer.
Kassandra was diagnosed with High-Risk Stage III Neuroblastoma, a deadly form of cancer. Throughout her treatment, Kassandra has hand-crafted her beaded necklaces. Kassandra assigned meanings to specific beads to symbolize love, courage, the cure for cancer, and growth and transformation. The beads became a way for a young girl to work through very difficult circumstances. She crafted her Butterfly necklace as a tribute to Hanna, her friend and neighbor at the children's hospital, after she lost her battle with cancer. With her cancer in remission, Kassandra wants to offer her signature pieces to others, dedicating the money to benefit other children with cancer. Kassandra's has received about 25,000 requests for the beaded jewelry so far, and can make about four a day on her own. Her local church has opened the doors of its community center, Mon.-Fri. from 1pm-5pm, inviting the public to join in the necklace-making. Beads Galore International Inc. in Tempe donated $25,000 in beads to Kassandra and said it hopes to eventually sell some of the jewelry as well. I can't remember the name, but a local jewelry store also decided to lend a hand in helping Kassandra's fight against cancer. They've offered to display and sell her beaded jewelry in their store. All proceeds going to her foundation, of course.
If an 8-year old can make four beads per day, imagine what can be done on a weekend when the community gets involved...
For more information about Kassandra and her beads you may visit:
http://www.lovecomesfirst.com/
*Information about Kassandra, her life, and her cause was found on several sites and are not all my own* Had to throw that in there...just in case... :)
~ONE voice~
Pressed by a Fairie // 4:51 PM
WoW, here I am wishing you a Happy Birthday for the 15th time already. I simply can't believe it. While I am happy and enjoy seeing you become a young man, it also saddens me. Gone are the days when I could just pick you up and bounce you around or tickle your hurts away. Soon your childlike innocence will make way for life and all of it's (sometimes) harsh realities. Enjoy being young Estevan. Revel in your youth and push yourself beyond what you think are your limitations. Try new things and make plenty of mistakes. That way when life comes to collect, you'll be ready. You'll have gained much knowledge and insight into what life has in store for you through trial and error. Knowledge is power, remember that! We've always said you are wise beyond your years...How many 12 year olds do you know wished they were old enough to...VOTE?!?!?!?!? You wanted to vote in the election for the new Texas Governor. You even made arguments as to why. You may very well be the closest thing to a son I'll ever have, and let me tell you, I'd be okay with that. The absolute pleasure and joy I've had watching and being a part of one of God's creations is truly something I'll treasure forever. Some people reading this may think I am acting like the one who birthed you. That won't bother me because you and I know what we've been through together and as a part of our family. I love you so much. Please know that I will always be in your corner, should you ever find yourself in need! Love Always,IllP.S. 1 year you can drive, 2 years you can get into "R" rated movies (legally), 3 more years you can join me in San Antonio and VOTE, Nothing major happens at 19...at 20 either, except the fact that you're now in your 20's. 21, I can introduce you to my friend Jose Cuervo! (JK)
Pressed by a Fairie // 6:03 PM
It is Sunday, April 17th and I spent the day in Tampa. We had family in from Miami. Actually my 70 something year old Grandmother's AUNT, her son and his wife were the ones visiting. After all the hugs and kisses were out of the way, our great-great cousin got down to asking us each about ourselves. He asks my brother how things are going and how goes school. What does he ask my sister and me...????? You ladies have boyfriends? Of course one of us replied yes and the other (me) replied no. His response was: Good for you, and you why not? What are you waiting for? My parents both laughed and stated that I'm the daughter who least wants to get married, heck that I don't even want a bf right now. He huffs about that and then turns to telling jokes.
Finally we are on our way to do tourist stuff. To be honest, there was only one mission...to visit the Jose Martin garden/stature area. Jose Martin was a very important Cuban man, thus the reason for my Cuban grandmother and her Cuban relatives wanting to go and visit. The statue is located in Ybor city, which was the number one cigar making city in the nation back in the old days. It was home to Cuban, Sicilian, and Romanian immigrants....Any way, so now that we've seen the statue and taken pictures its time to eat. During the 2 hours we spent mosying around Centro Ybor I was asked repeatedly about why I have no boyfriend. Since I didn't feel it was really any of his, or anyone elses business, I just skirted around the questions...There were 9 of us so we were going to go to this Chinese Buffet place, but later learned it closed down...off to Golden Corral we went. During dinner my g-g cousin brings up the fact that there is no man in my life...AGAIN! He asks me how old I am and I replied 23. He replies, TWENTY-THREE?? You need to get on the ball. Soon you'll be 25 and you're not even close to being married which means no kids in the near future yet either. I look to my parents for help and find nothing but absolute humor on their faces!! Then I explain that there is no need for me to get married or have kids because between my sister and brother, there will be enough offspring to go around. Not to mention the fact that since I am not a man (thank God) I don't have to worry about preserving and passing down our last name. I told my parents that I think my g-g cousin might walk away thinking I am a lesbian because I wouldn't answer on any guy-related questions. They both erupted in laughter, which of course made me laugh. Hey, I am totally fine if that's the conclusion he walks away with.
It's hard being a young woman in a male dominated family. Because all of my uncles are from the old school. Where the only things a woman should do is tend the house, kids, laundry, and cook. I can't fault them really because that's the way their generation grew up. It was the way of life. What sucks for me is that not only are they from the "old school" era, but they're Latin too. Latin men are the most machismo men you'll ever encounter. What I said before goes double, if not triple for them. To this very day, in 2005, not ONE of my 13 uncles cooks dinner! Most of my aunts now have jobs, but they still make it home in time to have their man's food ready for them. I will say this though, my uncles have learned to fend for themselves should their wife be out during the day or busy with the kids...but dinner is still the wife's duty. I remember one holiday, it may have been New Year's Eve, that when it was time for dinner, the women served the men and they ate first. Then it was the women and us children. I am glad to say that that sh*t has definitely changed. We cook the night before and pretty much all of the next day and food is setup buffet style. Everyone serves themselves!
Oooh, I just found something out...I was telling my mom about this entry and she just relayed a story to me. Apparently we have a relative that is in the hospital and just woke from a week long coma. During the convo my mom was asked about us. She told them that one of us is moving to Texas and the other to NY and that the baby is about to turn 15 *yada yada*. The response she got was, "Aixa, you're still a step behind as usual. We all have Grandchildren now." That comment seriously hurt my mom's feelings which of course then pissed me off. I'm not one damn bit sorry that her daughters have chosen a different life for themselves. That we've decided not to follow the traditional Latin way and get married at 17/18 and have a family by 20. I'm not sorry that we have plans and goals and enjoy the freedom that our parents have enabled us to have. I am glad that I was able to witness my parents as a couple and now as a divorced couple! I watched my mother go from being "happy" and "secure" to down right desolate when her husband, her "world", decided he didn't want her or his family any more. In the 15 years she was with him, he took care of the bills and doled out the money for groceries and entertainment and for the misc. When he up and walked out she didn't have a flipping clue as to where she had to go to pay the water, electric, or phone bill. I watch my mother drag herself up from the ground and pick up the pieces of her life. She didn't do it for her, she did it for us. Her children. Had it not been for us, I'm not sure if she'd still be around...Nowadays my mother owns the house she lives in and is the only person I know who enjoys doing her bills. She sits down with her pen, pad, and calculator and does them with a sense of pride. She sees where her money is going and she revels in that small fact...it's her money. Call me a cynic, but to lose myself in the shadows of a man, I'd rather be on my own. I've never said that I don't want to have a man in my life, I just don't want a man who will expect me to make him my life. It won't work that way. What I am pretty sure of is that I don't want to be married. *Gasp* Yup, I'll be living in sin most likely...*Double Gasp* Even the most God fearing man sins...heck just the other day I was reading somewhere that a man, who was picked up at his house by a friend, threatened to strangle her to death if she didn't go back because he forgot his Bible. Oh man, I can hear the emails already being typed. Here's the deal...I'll live my life and you live yours. Who knows, my opionion (on marriage) might change. Life is neither black or white...
~Happily Single~
Pressed by a Fairie // 11:45 PM
The song I've chosen is one that reflects my mood, more or less, for the last few days. It sometimes frustrates me that life can be so perturbing at times and at others be so predictable. I would like it if just once, the stars can align, so that the universe and I can be on the same plane. So that what I am feeling inside can be brought to the outside and shared with those around me. I was in the middle of writing a story about a young woman. Normally I can sit down and just start writing and bang out some pretty good stuff that has nothing to do with me or my experiences in life. When I went to read over what I had written, I realized the young woman was me. The story closely resembles what the song that is playing says...so here I am, trying to figure out what all this means. Life is never easy. This we all know. Matters of the heart are even more unforgiving!
~Stargazer (L)Illy~ We Belong TogetherI didn't mean itWhen I said I didn't love you soI should have held on tightI never should've let you goI didn't know nothingI was stupidI was foolishI was lying to myselfI could not fathom that I would everBe without your loveNever imagined I'd beSitting here beside myself'Cause I didn't know you'Cause I didn't know meBut I thought I knew everythingI never feltThe feeling that I'm feeling Now that I don'tHear your voiceOr have your touch and kiss your lipsCause I don't have a choiceOh, what I wouldn't giveTo have you lying by my sideRight here, 'cause baby[Chorus:]When you leftI lost a part of meIt's still so hard to believeCome back baby pleaseWe belong togetherWho else am I gonna lean onWhen times get roughWho's gonna talk to me on the phoneTill the sun comes upWho's gonna take your placeThere ain't nobody thereWe belong togetherI can't sleep at nightWhen you are on my mindBobby Womack's on the radioSinging to me'If you think you're lonely now'Wait a minuteThis is too deep, too deepI gotta change the stationSo I turn the dialTrying to catch a breakAnd then I hear BabyfaceI only think of youAnd it's breaking my heartI'm trying to keep it togetherBut I'm falling apartI'm feeling all out of my elementI'm throwing thingsCryingTrying to figure outWhere the hell I went wrongThe pain reflected in this songAin't even half of whatI'm feeling insideI need youNeed you back in my life baby[Chorus Out]
Pressed by a Fairie // 6:43 PM
The day was supposed to go as follow: Wake up. Gather beach stuff. Drive to Clearwater. Tan, swim, tan some more while drying off. Head back home. Well, yesterday we went to Home Depot and bought a good amount of flowers, plants, soil, and mulch. My mom decided that she wanted to change the front yard (again). I woke this morning and on my way to check the weather, saw my mom gathering her gardening tools. There was a light chill in the air and so the trip to the beach was nixed. I decided to get down and dirty with mom. Some of you may laugh at the thought of Miss Priss getting dirty, but it was minimal. Well, compared to my mother. I actually taped the wrists of my gardening gloves as tight as I could while still allowing for movement. Why? So that dirt didn't get inside and get on my hands. Just got chill bumps at the thought. HEHEHEHE. We began around 11:30 and didn't finish til almost 8pm. Thank goodness for daylight savings...The flowers look beautiful in their new home. We have white and yellow Tiger Lilies (a fave of mine), red Snapdragons, and Gerbera Daisies in BRIGHT fuschia and also orange. We've ordered some Scorpion Orchids (can you guess which November baby picked those?) and Stargazer Lilies (my FAVES!!!) We're into the exotic/tropical flowers in this family. I know Rayne, it's because we ARE a tropical family. For those that don't know I come from a full-blood Puerto Rican mother and a Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Cuban father. In essence, I make up a good portion of the Caribbean Islands.
Let me tell you, if you like to workout, but hate being indoors, find a yard that needs raking and get to it! WOW. I got the best triceps and shoulders workout in my life while raking the front yard. And I've been working out like crazy for the last 2 months! Forget the squats, lunges, glute exercises and pull weeds for about half an hour. All that up and down and side to side movement combines stretching and toning. No need to even pop in my dvd workout video tonight! I'm thinking about going into landscaping...
Good news to report. It seems that whenever I find myself going through problems in one relationship, another one strengthens. Bubbles and I are back on speaking terms. It's so good to have her back. We've only known each other for 2.5 years, and most of the time was spent not speaking. There were issues that just couldn't seem to be resolved on her side (and she knows it, so please don't act like I am putting her on blast). The whole point of me bringing this up is to say that she's finally resolved her issue(s) and has offered the olive branch, so to speak. I have accepted it, again, and hopefully for the last time. The few times that we were speaking, we managed to have a really great, deep, friendship. She actually sat here for hours going over EVERY single pic and blog entry last night and into the early morning! Talk about catching up. Our friendship actually included a third person, LJ. Here's the great thing, We are all (3) Scorpios. You'd think that there's no way 3 of the same sign could be great friends, and women on top of that, SHOOT! It was hard. Scorps have many traits and we each have a few that define us to the T...Me-Introvert, loyal, and secretive, LJ-The peacemaker and emotional, and Bubbles-jealousy and mysterious. The one trait that binds us all is that as long as you're straight with us, you'll always have a friend in your corner. It just took one of us a little longer to figure that out...(LOL)! We're hoping that we can get "The Gang" back together and hang out like we did before. We all worked together at a dinner theater and when it closed down, everyone kinda went their own way. We all still talk to each other, but its more like...hmm...Ryan and I remain great friends and so I would know about what D-Train is up to through him. Ryan and Bubbles remained good friends so...ha, I guess Ryan now the commonality we all share!!! Amazing huh Ryan? You went from being the outsider/new guy at work and are now the center link. Must feel great huh? Sure as heck am glad that when our boss pulled me to the side and asked me how you were doing and left the decision of keeping you around up to me, that I felt bad and decided to give you "One More Chance." Especially glad that I didn't let D-Train try and kill you your first week at work. Man was he pissed! LMBO, can't remember what it was that you did, but sheesh. Lucky for you, that one guy...what was his name...Ha, all I remember is that he drove a red car and that he was Jewish. Any way, luckily he came around and not one person wanted him there. At least you had people fighting for you. Remember when I asked everyone how they felt about him and should we give him a second chance? It was a unanimous NO! When I asked about you, everyone was a little hesitant...well, except Big D (aka D-Train). LOLOLOLOL. The best time I've ever had at a job were with you all.
Well, it is 11something and my body is starting to feel the days work. If there is no entry tomorrow, it's because I was not able to move a muscle! LOL
~Stargazer Lily~
P.S. Tomorrow, 4.15.05, is an important day. No, not because that's when your taxes have to be post marked, but because it is officially Jackie Robinson Day! That's right. The first African-American man to enter into baseball, breaking the color barrier, has his own NATIONAL holiday! **Side note** A couple of years ago the Commissioner of MLB, Allan H. (Bud) Selig, honored Jackie Robinson by retiring his jersey # 42. I know, you're thinking so what? He didn't just retire the # from the team he played for, he retired it permanently THROUGHOUT the league. That means NO MLB team can EVER use the # 42 again. I applaud you Commissioner!
Pressed by a Fairie // 11:16 PM
Today started out a pretty crappy day. I have a visitor in town for the next 5-6 days. Oh joy. So I spent the day in bed watching reruns of The District and the new Kojak with Ving Rhames. Both shows are fantastic! I remember watching The District every Saturday night, before it went into syndication. I would actually wait until AFTER the show to go out! Yeah, I know, I watch waaay too much TV. Eh.
Any way, then around 2ish FedEx knocked on my door with a package for me. It's a straightener that was ordered from shopathometv.com. If you don't know already, well, I have extremely tight curly hair. When I was younger all I wanted was to have straight hair. My hair was to my butt and sooo thick. We moved to Texas and I thought I would die from the heat under all my hair. So my parents finally let me cut it. Next I started working on getting them to let me straighten out my hair. I received the same answer every time, 'Women pay $100's to get curls like yours!' Me, being the quick-witted smart ass that I am, responded that they shouldn't complain then because they still come out better, since it would only cost between $50-$75 to straighten my hair. Finally I wore them down and we went to a salon and straightened my hair. It was great until a humid day hit, then I was a mass of frizz. I was in the 6th grade the first time I had my hair done. We continued to do relaxers on and off until I was a freshman. By that time all of my tight ringlets had turned into loose wavy "s" curls. It wasn't until I graduated that I decided to return my hair to its natural state. I walked into Sergio's and asked the lady to chop off every piece of stringy hair she saw. She told me it would leave my hair in a curly bob type look. I didn't care, I wanted my curls. My hair never looked better. My friends LOVED the new (old) hair. So I've kept it up. There are times though when I'd like to straighten my hair w/o the chemicals, but normal straighteners don't work, they only seem to mat my hair down, not really straighten it. This straightener has a built-in comb thing, so it actually separates the hair and straightens evenly. Of course, I took pics of it. I'll put them up in my Y! photo album in a sec. And yes, I am painfully aware of the fact that I need a trim!!! Heck, I need to color my hair too. It's naturally dark brown, but I'd been a nice, warm, med. brown for the longest until last year. I decided to redo the blonde highlights before my trip back home. As you'll see, they're still there!!! My stylist said that because we bleached my hair last time, that he's sure he can dye it the color I want, but that I'll have to sign a waiver, "just in case." Um, HELL NO!!!! My hair is a lot longer than I thought. Those of you who have only seen me in curly hair will be shocked too. The link to the new pics: http://photos.yahoo.com/islabonita_pr. The hair and newest pics are in the folder titled: Newest Pics.
I took advantage of AOL's first listen option and checked out Mariah Carey's new cd. I have to say that I am impressed and pleased. The only album I ever had of hers was the the 2nd one, Emotions, I think...It was so long ago that not only did I receive it as a gift, but it was in tape format! Her last few albums all seemed like she was trying too hard to be mainstream and not herself and she failed. Even her image has changed a bit...gone is what Rayne deemed "Being-her-own-video-hoe" image. In her latest 2 videos there are no daisy dukes, barely there tops, and most of her skin is covered. She actually looks her age now. Kudos to you Mariah! Any way, the cd doesn't have the overload of party anthems one would expect from her lead single, Its Like That. The cd actually sounds more like 70s soul on a few tracks, and back are some powerful ballads. All in all, I'll probably still wait for Rayne to DL the cd and send me a copy :P...
Well, it's almost 11pm and that means it's almost my bedtime. Off I go, to upload the pics and then hit the bed. Night. ~Isla Del Encanto~
Pressed by a Fairie // 10:21 PM
Well here I am sitting in my room, staring at this blank entry page. I don't really know what to write, because life hasn't been all that exciting lately. Yesterday was pretty eventful. I met Ryan, Erica, his mom, and her friends at Golden Coral for dinner. I quickly remembered why I stopped going. The Dessert bar and Soup and Salad bar selections are greater than the entire buffet. So I grabbed a spoonful of mac n cheese and a few pieces of the grilled, boneless pork chops, oh, and a dinner roll and headed back to the table. Another thing I've noticed out here in Florida is that there isn't a restaurant/buffet that cooks with salt. I've NEVER had to add salt to my food when I lived in Texas. I actually can't stand to add salt to anything. Since most people ALREADY ADD SALT during the prep/cooking portion! Any way, afterwards I went to the movies with my lil' bro. Guess Who? Was hilarious! I LOVE Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher just keeps proving himself. If you don't already know, Guess Who? is a remake of the 196(something) film, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. It starred Sidney Poitier and Katharine Hepburn starred in it. I remember watching it when I was about 13. Great movie. Well in the updated version the female is African-American and the guy she's bringing home to meet the family is white. We laughed and laughed, and I teared up twice. My brother (14) said, "Are you serious? Tears?" Youngins what do they know about matters of the heart????
I am about to watch the Yankees vs Red Sox game that I recorded earlier today. They played in Boston today and also received their World Series Rings (Dead Sox). Peace.
iLEAna
Pressed by a Fairie // 7:42 PM
Just a quickie update: We arrived back home around 6:30 p.m. We're both exhausted. We pretty much ran ourselves on empty Friday and then again today (Saturday). I'm still not back to 100% yet (healthwise), so I'm sure that contributed to my fatigue. I said hello to my Father when we walked through the door, then I bent down and gave Sebastian a hug, and then I came to my room and hugged my bed. Which is what I was still doing until now. I had to wake up and take my meds, so here I am...with one eye closed (so I can see better against the brightness). That's it for now, cause my bed is still crying out for some TLC.~Sleeping well in Florida~
Pressed by a Fairie // 11:43 PM
Well, the Sox beat my Yanks. We may share the same last name, but Yankees go-to closing pitcher Mariano and I are NOT related to one another. It's a good thing too, because I might be getting death threats after his last two outings!!!!!! I won't abandon him and boo him like other Yankee fans because he's been an important staple to the team and their previous successes. The problem is that they play the Sox so many times that he has become ineffective against them. They've figured him and his pitches out. Now he needs to regroup and figure out how to stun them with new pitches...
Moving on...it seems like surgery is rapidly becoming my only option where my Crohn's disease is concerned. I've spent the last four days in bed. The first two days were filled with severe pain in my lower, right ab area, then the pain lessened by the third day, but dizziness kicked in like a mofo! Today I've only felt the pain when I've strecthed the right side of my body, but nausea has been present. ICK! I haven't given in though, because once I do it will be non-stop and then the fevers will come...
In other news, I am on my way to Naples tomorrow. I didn't even know I was going. My mother gave me a telephone number and told me to call. It turned out to be a number to a hotel. I booked us a room and am in the middle of packing. I love impromptu trips! I'll have my ogo with me, so I can chat and send emails and texts back and forth on the way there.
~Lady~
Pressed by a Fairie // 10:55 PM
Man oh Man how I LOVE the month of April. Why? Because not only is basketball season just reaching it's peak, but BASEBALL season is just beginning. I am a baseball babe! I love everything about baseball; the smell of the clay dirt after its been raked and sprayed with a light mist, the smell of the fresh cut grass, the stark contrast of the white chalk against the burnt orange dirt, the way a hot dog tastes completely different when you're sitting in the stands--the list is endless really...The Yankees opened the season with a win over the Dead Sox on Sunday. The score, a lovely 9-2. Randy Johnson pitched a hecka of a game too! I bet the Yanks were so excited to have (finally) acquired him. "Say hello to our little friend..." HA!HA!HA!HA! Maybe the Sox forgot that the Yanks are still the better team. Alas, they had a chance to redeem themselves on Tues. and fell short again; 4-3 (thanks to the hunky and oober athletic and talented Derek Jeter and his bottom of the 9th walk-off home run). Maybe the Sox forgot to actually work on their game during spring training this year. Did they think that just because the "curse" has been broken, that things would be easy for them? HA! Today at 1pm we'll get to witness the Sox get YANKed again...Can't wait!!! While I am die-hard NYY fan, I will admit to rooting for other teams. That doesn't make me disloyal, just goes to show how avid of a fan I really am. Since the Yanks don't play every day, and some games won't be aired, I have to fill my viewing schedule with something. There are a few players I am interested in. Juan Pierre, who plays for the Marlins, is a treat to watch. He is an all around player. Bats well, plays D well, and runs like lightening. Seriously, I watch just so I can see him steal bases off of pitchers and catchers as if it were nothing. Then there's his teammate Miguel Cabrerra. This kid (21) can play. His at bats can be either quick or drawn out! He will get his bat on anything that crosses the plate. I've seen him hit sooo many homers it's ridiculous!! Again, this list is endless too...I will be attending the Tampa Bay Devil Rays game on Sunday, April 24. They're hosting the Dead Sox. My parents, both of whom are die-hard Sox fans, actually cried when they won last year. When I saw they'd be here, I quickly placed an order for 3 tickets. I figured, why not let them see their World Champions in person (while it lasts). They have no idea though. It's a little surprise I put together for them. the seats are freaking SIC!!! Better be for how I much I spent. We'll be taking out digital cams, so I'll be sure to post some pics. Which reminds me, I still haven't posted the pics I took when the Yankees were in town last year. Jeter's butt...er...I mean at bat was awesome!
Moving onto basketball...My Spurs are currently #2 in the Western conference! YAY!!! Also headed to the playoffs are the 76ers and the Mavericks. Again, while I am loyal to the Spurs, I can't help but root for these other two teams. They work so hard and play so well. The whole sport is exciting to watch. I love the competitiveness involved, the hustle and bustle. The physical effort it takes to win. Winning without having to work for it, to me, is an empty win. The harder you work, the more it pays off. The more deserved it feels. There isn't anyone who has played harder the A.I. I would love to see him and his team become the world Champs. Yes, even though it would mean they'd have to take out the Spurs. We've been there and done that. All my opinion of course. Here is the biggest dose of karma to come around in quite a while...Crybaby Kobe Bryant and his Lakers won't be entering into the post-season this year. That's right, "Mr. This is my team, I run this mother, and I want Shaq gone", won't get a shot at another ring. Wait for it...this is only the 5th time in their 45 years in LA that they DON'T participate in the post-season. Startling, I know. Who cares? Definitely not me...until I think about the #1 team in the Eastern Conference, the Miami Heat. Then I take it a step further and think about who plays for that team, SHAQ. Oh how he must be reveling in the fact that he was traded because he was hated (on) and now he'll be traveling the road that Kobe and his cohorts won't be...possibly becoming the '05 World Champs. Karma, isn't it grand?
Well that's all for now from me. The game is about to start and I have hot dogs to make, a Pepsi to pop open, and a nice, comfy spot to sink into. Have a great one all...I am! Ileana
Pressed by a Fairie // 12:42 PM
The most destructive habit............................Worry
The greatest joy...............................................Giving
The greatest loss..............................................Self-respect
The most satisfying work...............................Helping Others
The ugliest personality trait...........................Selfishness
The most endangered species........................Dedicated Leaders
Our greatest natural resource........................Our Youth & Our Elderly
The greatest "shot in the arm"......................Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome...............Fear
The most effective sleeping pill......................Peace of Mind
The most crippling failure disease.................Excuses
The most powerful force in life.......................Love
The most dangerous outcast...........................A Gossip
The worlds most incredible computer...........The Brain
The worst thing to be without........................Hope
The deadliest weapon......................................The Tongue
The two most power-filled words.................."I can"
The greatest asset............................................Faith
The most worthless emotion...........................Self-pity
The most beautiful attire.................................A Smile
The most prized possession.............................Integrity
The most contagious spirit...............................Enthusiasm
Our greatest teacher.........................................Experience.
The most powerful channel of communication........PRAYER
Pressed by a Fairie // 7:51 AM
This was on the page of a guy who sent me a note recently. If you've read my blog from the beginning or happened to see the first entry, then you know how I feel about music.
"Whenever I feel out of place within the world, I always turn to music. Its amazing how I can be in my room, turn on some music, and be taken to another place. Music can take you back to the happiest moment of your life or the saddest. It can bring a smile to your face on your worst day or bring a tear to your eye on your happiest one. Its amazing how music can tell your life story or convey the EXACT thing that you are feeling right at that moment without you even having to say a word!"
I just thought it was cool to run into someone who has found another way to articulate how they feel about music. Especially since it so closely mirrors mine...~Musica~
Pressed by a Fairie // 2:59 AM
A Samurai warrior came to a Zen master for instruction. "Master, I would like to know if Heaven and Hell really exist," asked the Samurai.The teacher heard his request and broke into mocking laughter. "You would like to know about Heaven and Hell?!...Don`t be ridiculous! Just look at you: you smell, you`re uneducated, and your mother dresses you funny! What teacher in his right mind would invest his time in the likes of you?...Go back to your camp and practice your silly exercises!" With that, the teacher turned his back on the man and ignored him.The Samurai became enraged. His face turned red, he began to breathe heavily, and drew his sword, ready to chop off the master`s head with his next breath. Just as the sword was about to fall, the master turned around smoothly, and calmly told him, "That, sir, is Hell."The Samurai stopped cold and realized the profundity of the master`s teaching. He saw instantly how he had created his own hell through pride and anger, Immediately, he fell at the master`s feet in humble reverence.The master looked down at him, lifted the Samurai`s head, and quietly said, "And that, sir, is Heaven."Nothing is more important than to look within, only there, you`ll find the secrets of life.*Just thought the story was nice and one that had a great message.*~Lea~
Pressed by a Fairie // 12:26 AM
One Day
The long, sought out promise
Of wedded bliss
All that is needed
Is to seal it with a kiss
We take our first steps
Into the unknown
Husband and wife
Together we’ll grow
God has blessed us
We’ve created His child
Soon we’ll be a family
Isn’t this wild?
Doing your ‘manly’ duty
You were on the road
Fulfilling our hopes and dreams
Locating us a new home
We spoke that morning
You were so excited
On your way back
We three would be united
Later that night
I received a call,
“A freak accident” they said
I lost all resolve.
So many questions
How can this be
We’re so much in love
Expecting our first baby
The day finally came
We laid him to rest
The doctor called
With the results of the test
“Please have a seat
I’m sorry to have to tell you
You’ve lost the baby
There’s nothing more we can do.”
My husband died
Making our dreams a reality
Our baby died
Because I couldn’t keep my sanity
I walked away
Three parts dead
All of the events
Still fresh in my head
Every day I’ll work hard
To live up to their memory
We’ll be together again
One day, I’ll have my family
Pressed by a Fairie // 6:03 AM
This is my response to a letter I received from someone I used to be involved with. He and I are still very much friends. Our friendship is actually so much more fulfilling now that we've gone and emptied our plates, so to speak. We've realized how much we depended on eachother and how we've grown together and separately. We appreciate the foundation we have now and are thankful for the past mistakes, because they've made us aware of what we need to do to remain a part of one another's future. The letter may read a little harsh, but those who know me and who've kept up w/ the blog, no I rarely mince words so...When we take on new friends and cultivate new friendships, we are in essence, making a vow...for better or worse...
Just can't help but wonder why I received a letter from you. Your MO is to call once or twice a month and to return calls at your leisure. Quickie overview, exchange of small talk and pleasantries and then we're back in our respective worlds. Maybe the letter itself isn't what surprised me, but its content. Have you been thinking more and more about my pending move back home? Is that why now you hope to see where things stand and where they may possibly lead? Are you freaking serious??? After all the ups and downs we (mostly me) have been through? Being in love with you left me raw on so many levels. It wasn't healthy for me at all. Loving someone wholly, who doesn't love you back is a slow, agonizing death. I'm not a cat with nine lives that I can just blow through. "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." You're the reason for the walls I have strategically erected and use to keep myself from getting hurt. Granted, I do believe you loved me, but it wasn't the same love I held for you. Yours was a selfish love. You loved me for the things I did for you and the way I made you feel. I knew something was keeping you around and it wasn't my sex, because that I would not give to you or anyone else and you never pressed for that part of me. But you took from everywhere else. I fed you the love and stability you've yearned for when you were growing up. I've grown up quite a bit ********. I've always been up on the game you played, but I decided I wanted to play it too. I figured that since I knew what you were up to, I could pick and choose what I let you get away with, all the while having you to myself. Sure, I manipulated and steered the ship, but you were the anchor. Even now. You and I haven't had a steady relationship (w/ others) in what...4 years? Want me to tell you why? Because you and I feed off of each other. As long as we have each other to share all of our emotional ups and downs with, we don't need to find someone on the outside. When things are screwed up and we need advice or just a place to vent, we call each other. It's a relationship, w/o the commitment. It's what every guy and some ladies dream about. Having the cake and eating it too! When you need to satiate your sexual appetite you find someone to lay with, someone who won't demand more from you...I've always said, even to this day, that you and I are the would be perfect couple. The problems that stand in the way are that I've discovered me. I don't feel I can trust you enough to share my(new)self with you. We're basically part of a puzzle. Since we are the pieces to the puzzle, we can't put ourselves together. We can't step outside of ourselves and dictate what goes where and how best to fit into each others lives...Our history runs deep. Our past is a colorful one. Every step has made me who I am today, so I won't say I wish things were different, only our situation. It didn't take me long to fall in love with you back then. You opened me up to so many new and wonderful experiences, but somewhere the lines blurred and I wasn't (still aren't) sure if I continued to be in love with you, or if it was just something I got used to doing. I think I was just used to loving you and being in love, that I never stopped to evaluate my feelings. I did that when I went back home a year ago. Those two nights that we hung out I realized that while I do love you, it's love that is borne from a history together, and not on the hopes of a future together. Since then, I've relied less and less on you and way more on me. I've severed the emotional dependency I had. I hope you understand and find that I am not trying to hurt you because you (unknowingly) hurt me back then. I would hope you know me better than that. If after this, you feel we can't remain friends, then so be it. I won't lie and say it won't hurt, but I'd prefer to cut the ties now rather than find myself entangled in them later.
Forever your Lady Friend, Ileana
Pressed by a Fairie // 5:57 AM
