Summer mix & tie-dye

Hello Dears,
Happy Sunday. What a lazy weekend for me. Chile, don’t get me started. I haven’t blogged since last week and I’m trying not to fall into that habit again. Recap from last week was of my son’s bday to now. We went out and shopped a little and later went to a family cookout. Food galore, my stomach still fat from that spread. Hehe.. DJ had a great birthday even though I purposely didn’t give him a party. This school year hasn’t been his best and I know he has the best in him. This kid has brains for days. He has been in GT (gifted and talented) classes for english and math for a while but this school year after much debate from last year and present, he has been dropped. I don’t know what’s going on, maybe the adolescent thing is playing a part, but for me, a party would have rewarded him and I just couldn’t do it. I know he got the lesson. He gets it. Although he didn’t have big blowout party, he was still celebrated. I couldn’t not celebrate my child. It was a good day. He was pleased. Check him out getting his GQ on.. Hahaha

13 is wearing:
Graphic T- American eagle
Cardi- American eagle kids
Jeans- Abercrombie and Fitch
Shoes- Vans
Happy 13th Birthday

If you follow me on instagram, then you may have already seen this tie-dyed shirt my daughter “15” made for me. It is so comfortable and fashionable and I love it. Her DIY moments have been awesome lately. And tie dye is trendy this season and the perfect summer mix of fun, and cuteness. She is so creative and really following her creative passion. She ended up with so many orders that day when I wore the shirt. I’m even thinking about letting her set up shop right here on my blog because this creativity has to be shared.
peep her process -BEFORE

AFTER:

I just threw on some Jeans from old Navy, cuffed the bottoms, green pumps and done! I really was comfy as a couch in this cut up free flowing tie-dye shirt. So what ya think? Cute right. Here are. A few other things she’s created
Baby tie-dye

Tie-dye socks for her brother

Bead action

at 15 it’s so many negative things she could be doing and since she isn’t I’m celebrating that. I was buying supplies and the whole 9. Since she is making her own money now, she has been buying her own supplies. Yay!! She can use the summertime as more creative time. Speaking of summer, woosah, it has been hot. I been having flashes or something. I’m. Not the type to sweat, but lately I’ve been having my moments of pure insanity. Can you say early change of life. Idk, but maybe. Our pool opened last weekend and we’ve been taking a dip every since. I can’t swim a lick but it’s an excellent way to cool down. The kids love it. Earlier in the week, I took lil miss number 5 and big miss number 5 her favorite cousin. These two little pieces of work are just that, a piece of work!

cuties on duty!
I have to wrap this post up, but speaking lil miss five and the incident at the school. Here’s an update. I tapped on every door at that school and still wasn’t getting the answers or the resolve I was looking for concerning the “juice in the bottle found on the playground” incident. I demanded a meeting with the director and all parties involved. Instead, the director called me and wanted me to discuss the issues with her over the phone. She basically slid past my wanting a meeting and still down played the situation of J and the other kids finding the bottle and drinking from it. She said many things that let me know she wasn’t willing to take responsibility, nor was she even acknowledging that something foul had occurred. I faded to black when she told me, “I have the bottle on my desk and it has been here for a while now, and it hasn’t changed in color and it hasn’t bubbled up or nothing has happened so it appears that it’s just juice”.. Are these people really stupid? What does she take me for? I told her I wanted answers. How did this happen? What was the teacher really doing that distracted her? What measures have been put in place to insure this NEVER happens again. I wanted to see a new action plan on paper to reassure me that my child is safe there. I want an acknowledgement, an apology, something to let me know, you guys realize you fouled up. Yes, I want an admission of guilt. You know what I got, nothing. So you know what I did, something! I got I touch with the department of childcare and licensing and I told them of the incident. They were not pleased. They even asked me, was the bottle sent off for any type of analysis to determine what the contents were. Absolutely not. I had several phone calls that day from that office and even one from child protective services. That’s right, they are involved because now, it’s a child endangerment and neglect situation. I didn’t feel bad, or even that I had taken it too far. As far as I’m concerned, I didn’t take it far enough. I would fight anybody anywhere for anyone of my children the same way. Oh, you don’t want to talk to me, you don’t want to give me answers, ok, now other people are involved and lets see if you can ignore them. J has been going to school less and less. Thank God for my grandmother who has kept her while I’m still sorting out this incident. I don’t know what has taken place in the school, but the teachers involved have been MIA. I see new teachers, and it’s just a mess. I had previously signed J up for the summer session, and I’m even under contract, but that contract is not binding me. After graduation, it’s a wrap! She is out of there. I just can’t do it with that school anymore.
So that’s basically how it has turned out. Thank God that my child and the others weren’t injured by this incident. Thank God they are all ok. Even still, I want to be certain that this never happens to anybody else’s child again.

Mommy with the fire, mommy with rage signing off!

(Post ran long, sorry)

Peace and Blessings
Dee

Condense it

*Picture Heavy*

Hello Dears,
This is going to be a condensed post. My week has been hectic, let me tell you, my job tires me to no end and challenges me immensely and… I love it! I’m just that kind of girl, I love a challenge.

Speaking of challenges, lack of sleep, whoa, what a challenge. I was so tired the other day (thursday). All I thought about was going home and getting in my bed. I literally had visions of it. Then, the calendar on my iPhone alerted me that I had an event that day. I had tickets to take the kids to the UniverSoul Circus. Oh no, say it ain’t so. Of all days. Today? Really? I completely forgot. I purchased those tickets well over a month ago and it slipped my mind. To top that off, Thursday was my late day at work. I wasn’t getting off until 6. The circus started at 7:30. How could I make this go over well at this point. After work I began a mad dash from one part of town to the next. The twenty- year old picked up the five year old from school. I called home and told the older kids to go in the closet and get an outfit for J, black shorts, black shirt, black sandles. I rushed in the house a sweaty and tired hot mess. J was bathed and dressed. Wonderful! I jump in the shower, with not a clue of what to wear. I ran to the closet and just picked out something that looked comfortable. I really didn’t put any thought into my clothes. Who had time to think. Clothes on, and we’re off.

Lil miss number #5 J wore:
Black tee- Walmart
Black shorts-Walmart
Cardigan-Target
Sandles- the shoe dept
Purse and jewelry- Burlington’s

this pose and the cardi wrapped around her waste was strictly generated by her, foreal, she is such a fashionista. Lol..

I wore:
Brown Jumper- Wet Seal
Cardigan- Old Navy
Sandles- Target
Bangles-thrifted
Earrings, Necklace- JCPenny
Watch- Michael Kors

(I just threw on anything)

We were speeding down the highway, and made it at 7:30 on the dot. First off, if you’ve ever been to the Universoul circus then you’ll know that when I say it was like a big huge party, I’m not joking. This was my first time going and I was not prepared for all the partying, music, dancing, audience participation, line dancing, soul train line, constant interaction. On a Thursday night, after work, dead tired, I was ill prepared. Overall, it was nice. I think the kids were in a state of shock at first. Then they started enjoying it. J was dancing it up, because that’s her thing but after a few hours it was just wearing on us all. At 10:15 pm, the circus was still running strong. I grabbed my kids and said we out! Nobody hesitated because they were all just as tired as I was. It was fun, but heart pumping, screaming excited kids, loud music, foot stomping was just too much for this Mommy on a Thursday night.

my Son jumped up there and started doing the stanky-leg.. Haha!

I wish I had better pictures 😦
Me and my clan

After the circus, as a unit we came home, and straight crashed! Lol..
Friday morning, I had to get up for work (still tired) and even managed to somehow look cute! 🙂
I wore:
Silk top- Old Navy
Silk Pants- Forever21
Lace Cardigan- ?
Nude Pumps- Marshall’s
Purse- TJMax
Necklace- JCPenny
Watch-Michael Kors
Bracelets- thrifted

Off work, and ready for the long weekend. Yes! No work til Tuesday. After work, I hooked up with a friend I hadn’t seen in a while. We ended up going out for crabs and just chilling at my house eating crabs and talking trash. It was a fun evening. And now today!!!
I gotta set this one up.
Thirteen years ago my head was so cloudy, my spirit was low and my faith was shattered, because my Mom had just died. Then on May 26, 1999, God blessed me with a wonderful gift that would stretch me in new ways, resurrect my faith, and lift me higher. DJ came into my life and reminded me that I had so much to live for..
He irritates me often, even challenges my intelligence at times, but the one constant is that he is unconditionally my son. My only son DJ is thirteen years old today, and I’m still his mom. What a blessing!
Happy Birthday to my son. Isn’t he so handsome:

he was wearing his little suit on Easter!

DJ wears- Suit from grandparents
Button down- the Children’s Place
Cardigan- American eagle kids
Jeans- Abercrombie & Fitch kids
Shoes- Vans
Geek glasses-?

Well folks, that’s it. Sorry for the looonngg post, and the heaavvvyyyy pictures, I was trying to get it in. I’ve got a long day of cookouts, and birthday hoorays, so let me get to it.
I pray everyone has a wonderful memorial day weekend with family, friends, and definitely be safe.

Peace and Blessings,
Dee

Hidden Talents

It’s amazing the talents that our kids posses and we don’t have a clue. Well. I’m guilty of not knowing a few things. Me, with all my probing and utter nosiness, still managed to be completely unaware that my son is a baby poet. He has a small book that he’s been working on since the beginning of the school year. His teacher sent it to me, with an inclosure detailing how great his writing and poetry had become. It was graded A++ and I was grinning from ear to ear! He got it from his Momma. Finally, one of them takes a little bit of what I have to offer. He was shy about it, but I could sense he really enjoyed the attention, and the acknowledgement of his work. Now I’m in his ear, like hey son, let’s write some poetry! Ha!

There are several tidbits of loveliness in his poems and he agreed to let me post a few of my favorites from his little book.
Birth
As the flowers were blooming, so was I. Born in a busy hospital room.
My Mom crying tears of joy.
My Dad, patiently holding her hand.
I came too fast for the doctor, the the way I am- sudden.
To hear my Mom tell it, I was full of life and very happy.
They named me Donte’ Julian. Donte after my uncle and Julian after my great-grandad.
They had a plump baby boy that was smiling 24/7.
They got me just the way I was supposed to be, with a fondness for laughing at the silliest things and being excited and hopeful for the future.
————————————————-
I am
A skipping pebble, hopping off the water.
I am a small swift chipmunk, weaving through the trees.
I am a growing 12 year old boy at the peak of my prime, like the glowing orange sun
I am the busy New York City
I am a speeding cyclone, wrecking the world with my wit and intelligence.
Like an extravagant fireworks show on the 4th of July
I am Donte’
———————————————–
Happiness
I dream that I was in a place where everything was exciting, colorful, and bright.
Like a huge rainbow
Everywhere I looked I saw children playing and Popsicles melting.
I could forever hear the sound of laughter and joy.
Everything felt so happy and joyful.
Like a breezy summer day.
This land was everyone’s comfort place, an adventure, a wonderland.
———————————————–

Awwww, weren’t those poems adorable. I just love them and all the potential. I ask him if he enjoys writing and he tells me, it’s ok. Naturally, I want him to love it as I do. Anyway, this situation just reminds me that I need to dive a little deeper into the minds of my children. You never know what secret talents they may be harboring. I know that my oldest daughter is an excellent artist, I mean can draw like nobodies business, but she isn’t passionate about it. I use to encourage her in it, and had her in all types of activities geared towards the arts, but as she got older, she strayed away. Lately, I’ve been nagging her about drawing me a cheap fab mom logo. I’m still waiting. Lol..
I know that my 15 year old is very creative in the arts and fashion. She alters almost every piece of clothing she owns in some way or another and it’s always easy on the eyes. The stuff she comes up with is fabulous. Extremely creative. The five year old told me she wants to be on the stage and I believe her. She can dance and sing very well. For those of you who have children, do they have any hidden talents? Some that maybe you weren’t aware of? Perhaps you already know and have been sleeping on it, or you are unaware like I was. As my grandmother would say, “one things for certain, and two things for sure”, It’s time we tap into these young minds and roll out the carpet to carry them to their fullest potential.

Oh yea, notice anything? Anything? Well let me help you out. I have been consistent with my post this past week. Yay me!!! I think it has to do with the fact that my stress level is down a thousand since I left that place I use to work at. I’ve had a lovely week. I’ve been settling nicely into my new role and doing a lot of compliance training and such. A lot of cleaning of my new office as it was truly dusty. I love my new office space though. Next week, I’ll start to hang pictures and artwork so it can start feeling a little more like me. Here are a few pics of the space:

The view from my window

Here’s what I’m wearing today:
Top- TJMax
Pants- Kohl’s
Shoes- Target
Earrings- Shoppers World
Rings- thrifted
Bracelets- payless, shoppers world

Lil Miss 5 had a winter program in school today. She had to wear blue/white, but I didn’t feel like the frilly dress or a skirt, so she wore:
Top- Target
Denim Jacket- Target
Leggins- Old Navy
Shoes- Harijuku Mini by Gwen Stefani

and last but not least, the poet, wrecking the world with his intelligence and wit, and avoiding the camera as usual. I love my one and only son.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Peace and blessings,
Dee

What a room, what a view

Hello Dears…
Happy Monday. I’m so terrible lately that I hope it’s still Monday when this finally gets posted. Shame, shame… Let me get right to it. I started my new job today. It was such a pleasant surprise to have a supervisor whose demeanor appears to be relaxed, calm, positive, and professional. I instantly like this woman. The morning started with orientation and I felt so bad for dozing off right in the faces of the facilitators. I mean boring! Some of the presentations were lively with an upbeat facilitator. Others were as dry as the Sahara desert and that’s when I started feeling like I had drank a gallon of sleepy time tea. And me, why did I have to be so obvious. I sat front row..Humph! Dumb move Dee, dumb move. Lol.. Later I went over to my department and I received the most awesome welcome from the new co-workers. I took a tour and walked into my new office and fell in love. The space was empty while the desk, chair, and computer lay on the floor awaiting tomorrows assembly. I opened a door that I assumed was a closet and it was a bathroom. My own personal bathroom inside my office. Yes!!! What a room, what a view. I’m totally stoked and loving this. The ice machine in the break room has me feeling like it’s Christmas. Anybody who knows me, knows that ice is my thing. Crunch, crunch.. 🙂
The view from the window is breath taking and I’ll definitely have to take pictures to show you once I am settled in. I am really happy with the way things have turned out for me. I had intentions on taking outfit pics. Taking pictures outside hasn’t been an option since it’s been so cold. The mornings are usually a rush move for us, and in the evening, I either forget, or have taken my clothes off and it’s then too late. Anyway, my son who is my do it yourself photographer hasn’t been feeling well and his skills were off today. Only a small few were decent enough to post.
I wore:
Pleated blouse- TJ Max
Cardigan- Thrifted
Slacks- Ross Dress for Less
Shoes- not shown
Name Necklace- Jay Lorai
Earrings, watch- Shoppers World
Purse- Valentines gift 3 years ago

This name necklace is quickly becoming my new favorite item. It was was given to me this past weekend by my co-worker/friend from the job I just left. Love it. If anyone is interested in purchasing, let me know.

Another new favorite item is my hat and scarf that was made for me by a lady who takes custom and special orders. I fell in love with her scarf sets and have purchased a few since the first one. Again, if anyone is interested, let me know and I’ll give you her information. My cousin and I hung out this past Saturday and she had her custom made scarf and hat on too.

We look happy as ever in those scarf sets. Lol..

Yesterday I took baby girl, Lil Miss number 5 and my lil cousin Big Miss number 5 to see Disney on Ice. They had a blast. These two are the tightest little cousins. They are two peas in a pod and so addicted to each other that it seems unreal. They are equally fire crackers in their on right, and together they are too much for TV. Cute as all get out though!

They wore these matching yellow shirts

They are something else!

We had great seats. Third row, and they had a great time seeing all their favorite characters and interacting along with the show.

My chile, my chile

The vest she is wearing was a denim jacket that got to small, so I cut the sleeves off. She loves this vest and tried to wear it everyday during the summer.

Since we were so tired from our busy time yesterday, I’m just gonna keep it real. I didn’t feel like doing Lil Miss #5’s hair this morning, so I just found her something else yellow to wear to match the hair balls. Yep! I’m terrible.. *grins*
Dress- Bday gift from grandparents
Leggings- children’s place
Suede booties- 77 kids by American Eagle

I know it’s been a while since fifteen has agreed to take a picture. She is a trip! Avoids the camera at all cost.
Sweater- purchased from vendor in NY
Denim Jacket- thrifted
Jeans- idk, but ripped and fringed by herself (she loves to alter her clothes)
Boots- Target

————-
My poor son hasn’t been feeling well. This is the child who never, ever gets sick. He has now developed sinus and allergy issues and he has been going through it. Just look at his face. Awww son!

Well peeps, that is the just of my weekend- today. Sorry, I had to pile it all on, but had to get it in where I could. I hope to post again tomorrow.
I pray you all had an amazing weekend and will have a great week ahead.
Peace and blessings,
Dee

A star is born

WARNING: picture heavy

Hello Dears,
I hope you guys don’t mind, but I wanted to have a celebratory post in honor of my baby girl. Five years ago today I was blessed with a wonderful surprise (and I do mean surprise). Looking back, I can’t imagine my life with out this irresistible, charming, beautiful, fashionable, wise, and spunky little momma.
Happy 5th bday to my baby girl. She is truly a blessing. In celebration of her day, I wanted to do an outfit post of her from the past to the present which shows, this mini diva has been fashionable and chic since her humble beginnings  Lol..

Please enjoy

Everything she is wearing came from baby gap, gymboree, walmart, thrifted, target, old navy, and the children’s place.

Peace and blessings
Dee

Don’t take it personal

Ho hum bum

It’s just one of them days…

Yea, that’s right! It may sound cliche-ish and a few other articles could have possibly started a post off the same way. Well… sue me. Don’t take it personal, but I feel like belting out Monica’s popular and very relevant tune. That’s right, just five days into the New Year and here I go with my stuff. Well, I’m having a “me” moment, all up in my head. It started as I was sitting at my desk working and minding my own business. My co-worker comes in and starts having life chat with me. The chat was flowing well, we chuckled a little, talked about our kids, and our lives, our age and hitting the next big milestone since were both the same age. And it dawned on me, just as sure as I mouthed the words out loud, that I will be turning the big “40” in about 8 months. Not that I didn’t know this, but it’s something about 2012 that makes it more real. At first, I was good saying, I’ll be forty next year, no worries. But somehow saying, I’ll be forty THIS year makes it feel….different.

This is a new feeling, I’ve never experienced before. I’m slightly panicked. Lawdy Jesus, what is wrong with me.

A story comes to mind.

Some years back, a close friend had turned forty. We are exactly 10 years apart so I was thirty at the time. Well, she appeared to be embracing turning forty very well. She planned a party, had excitement and then when her birthday came, she woke up in a funk! She wouldn’t answer any calls; she stayed in bed and would not get up. Later in the day, she finally answered me after I rang her phone off the hook to the 10th power. When I asked her what was going on, she sounded like she was having some sort of breakdown. I told to cut it out and get out of the bed. She told me that she could not. She was explaining how she felt, how her youth was gone, and I just didn’t understand. I kept saying, you are beautiful, you still look young, and it just wasn’t working. She was even talking about not showing up to her own party. I didn’t know what to do, but I knew I had to get her out of bed and back to reality. I sat down and wrote her a beautiful poem about how important her life was, telling her all the wonderful things about herself that she had somehow managed to forget. I framed the poem, took it to her. She read it, cried, hugged and thanked me and just like that, her funk was over! She jumped up, began to prepare for her party and did the thing hard like a rock star! We had a blast. I never understood why my friend had those feelings or the mini breakdown until… NOW.

By nature, I’m analytical, and have been known on occasion to over analyze. In any event, I want to know why I’m feeling like this. I’m eight months shy of my birthday and already, I’m feeling some type of way. I know it sounds like craziness! Don’t judge me.

There could be a few reasons why I’ having a bit of anxiety about it. I can’t over think it, let me just say it:

1. My mom passed away when she was young. (44)

2. My mom’s mom passed away in her early forty’s.

3. My mom’s grandmother also passed away in her early forty’s.

4. I’m not married

5. I’ve never been married

6. The fear of running out of time.

Well, there you have it. I think these factors are key components of my feelings towards my next birthday. Don’t get it twisted, I’m not trying to end it or anything, and I thank God for my life thus far, and for my youthful look and feel. Such a blessing. I am human though, and I wonder how many others have felt like this, and how they coped. I’m pretty sure I’ll snap out of this craziness by tomorrow or something, but for now, it’s just one of them days.

Enough of that…

I do have an outfit or two to post. My New Years eve outfit was nothing spectacular. I kept it simple, as I’ve been finding myself leaning towards the simple lately and liking it . We went to a kiddie party earlier in the day, and spent the evening at watch night service. Church service was awesome, and just the perfect way to spend my last night of 2011. What a praise fest we had.

I wore:

Sweater- Target

Faux leather pants- Amsterdam Boutique

Shoes- Burlington

Clutch- shoppers world

Earrings- Rashidagurl

Bracelets- Forever21

Necklace- Lori’s

#4 is the only one who doesn’t mind posing for the camera. She’s a natural. Four is wearing:

Sweater dress- gift from G-ma

Tights- H&M

Faux Leopard Jacket- Children’s place

shoes- Target

I know Miss Thing is a mess!!

Hope you all are having a good new year thus far.

Until next time, Peace and Blessings,
Dee

Ode to twenty eleven

(WARNING: PICTURE HEAVY)

Ode to 2011

It’s so hard, To say goodbye to yesterdayyyy-eeee. Not!
I’m glad as ever it’s 2012. However, I can never forget some of the things that 2011 brought me. I’ve had some bad days, but I came through. Some pretty monumental times came too. Amazing experiences that I can never forget. Reflecting back on the year, it wasn’t so bad at all, for I had some of the best joys of my life. Take a trip with as I tell a 2011 story through pictures and words.

The 2011 photo-story lookbook.

Disclaimer: I am not a professional photographer, nor is my camera of the highest quality. Most pics were taking with my kodak or iPhone. My quality lies in my content.

It’s me- prior to natural hair
I’m wearing:
Tank- Walmart
Leopard sweater- Forever21
Necklace- Forever21
Jeans- not shown

I’ve had some proud Momma moments. One of my proudest 2011 memories was when my daughter (15) and son (12) were baptized. (Twenty was baptized when she was twelve and my four year old isn’t ready yet) Gee, was I proud, and oh so happy. Seeing my kids get baptized, it was an awesome feeling.

I’m not proclaiming that I’m the best mommy but,

it is my best joy.

After morning service, this is what we usually do:

Sunday breakfast. WE EAT!!

I usually have way more camera time with Miss thang #4. That’s mostly because she is always picture ready and eager to pose for the camera. Those other three avoid the camera like the plague!
Easter Sunday Four is wearing:
Dress- The Children’s Place
Purse- The Childen’s Place
Shoes- Target
Ruffle socks- ? Gift from G-ma

Son Twelve is wearing:
Graphic Tee- The Children’s Place
Khaki Blazer- The Children’s Place
Jeans- The Childrens’s Place

Another highlight and proud moment I was blessed to have was being able to buy my daughter (twenty) her first car. Happy, happy, happy. She needed it! Working, college, deserving!

Here’s a cute outfit post. I’m wearing:
Denim Top- Walmart
Pencil skirt- Forever21
Belt- Arden B
Purse- Burlington
Cable knit tights- Marshalls
Necklace- Burlington
Boots- ?

Watching your kids grow up right before your eyes is definitely a humbling experience. I’m such a punk, and surely shed a tear as my daughter, then age 14 went off to 8th grade prom

This girl been clicking around in my heels since she was a tot

and she certainly rocked in these pumps
She wore:
Dress- Macy’s
Shrug, Necklace, Earrings Forever21
Clutch- From cousin
Shoes- Barefeet

Four went and had an eye exam, and walked out with a pair of glasses. Looks adorable in them too!

Leaving church

school picture

When twenty first went off to college, she was living on campus. During that time, her hair was unkept. I have always done the girls hair, we don’t do hairdressers/stylist,etc. Who can afford that? Certainly not a single mom of four on a budget. I’ve always done their hair. Well, my college bound kid couldn’t so much as put a ponytail in her hair, nor wrap it. A curling iron…. Forget about it. She has been natural for three years, so it wasn’t chemicals that killed it. It broke off really bad and eventually we just made some decisions about it. She went from this:

to severely chopped and screwed hair so, I cut it to this:

well, that worked out for a while, but she went back to school and couldn’t maintain that either, so I cut it to this

and this has been working for her. Soon after, she decided she didn’t want to stay on campus anymore and she came back home! For all that, I coulda bought her tresses back to life… Kids, kids, kids.. Moving right along

I’ve had a hair journey of my own. I big chopped in June 2011 and have not had any creamy crack(relaxer) on my hair since then. This hair journey is not easy at all. So many nights I fingered my hair thinking, I should just relax it now. I miss my straight hair atleast once a week, but I’ve stuck it out. This natural hair has given me freedom. It certainly was a big move for me in 2011 because I change my hair like all the time. Check the before and the after

My first and only hair weave(so far) lol..

my hair has always been super super thick and pretty healthy.. So anyway, natural journey begins-the big chop.. Yikes

it’s growing back now! I’m about ready for those protective styles like braids or a even a weave.

Ok, I know I’ve said this a few times, but this has got to be one of the best experiences of 2011. The day me and my daughter met rapper/actor/my husband 🙂 Common. I was leaving work, and riding through downtown and their he is. Filming a movie. I called my daughter and told her what and who I just seen and to get their immediately. She arrived and I told her to park the car. Not only did we meet him, but the producer guys asked me and my daughter to be extra’s in a scene. He was so nice and humble. So willing to talk to the mob of people who were their. He signed autographs, shook hands, and his energy was just.. Em… saying something to me! All those people out there, and they just happened to choose me and my child. I couldn’t believe it. I’ve never been like starstruck or anything because afterall, they are just people. But I was going gaga. Mesmerized. That is one beautiful man.

peep how constipated me and my daughter look while posing with Common

LOL.. STARSTRUCK!!!! You just never know what may happen, or when. We weren’t expecting to meet a celebrity and see him filming a movie in our city, and then get asked to be an extras in that movie. That was favor! That is one experience my daughter and I will always have and never forget.

(ALMOST DONE WITH THIS POST)

For my 2011 birthday I had a small
impromptu party. I had such a great time and felt so much love as friends just kept showing up. We had a blast!

Line dancing.. And Yes!!! I was getting it in!

More family fun

At the airport waiting for a flight

Fifteen be looking like she on the runway sometimes. Ha!

This concludes my 2011 photo lookbook. If you stuck around to the end of this post, I commend you because it’s extra long. Forgive me, I was getting carried away. The point wasn’t to brag or glory in anything, but to remind myself and others that even in the midst of our storms, (and I did have some 2011 storms) We are still blessed. The year wasn’t as bad as I thought, and it was surely better than 2010. God is good!

I hope you all enjoyed it. Have you done any reflecting over the past year? If you haven’t, please do and recognize, you’ve had more good times than bad.

Now, let’s get this 2012 party started right! The year of new beginnings! I’m excited for you, and for me.

Peace and Blessings,
Dee

Blessings and Giveaways

(This post is picture heavy)

Hello everyone. Happy Holidays to you all. This was such a blessed time with family and friends. It’s the most wonderful time of year. People genuinely seem more caring, loving, and thoughtful. I also understand that for some, this time of year brings great sadness because of the lost of their loved ones. My heart goes out to those, as I know all to well the ache that resides in your heart out of missing someone who has left this life. A co-worker was having a serious emotional blow, as she had just lost her Mom three months ago. All week, I saw a sadness in her eyes and when she finally did breakdown, I was right there. I believe God wanted me by her side at that moment because I happened to be the only other co-worker that had lost a mother. I walked, talked, laughed, cried, and prayed with my co-worker. It was very emotional and healing. I thank God for giving me the strength to be there for someone else and for allowing her to release what she’d been holding in all week. Lord knows, I miss my mother in ways I cant even express, but I also know, it has gotten easier to deal with over the years. I always imagine my mom’s radiant smile watching my kids opening presents on Christmas morning. I find comfort in that.

I was on a mission this season to really expound on the true meaning of Christmas to my kids, and I feel extremely good about that. I’ve had these chats with all my kids over the years, but I drilled it hard this time. The four year old was the most challenging to convey the message to. I’m telling her their is no Santa and her classmates have told her differently. I didn’t want her to go back and ruin it for them because that’s not my place. I told her, Santa doesn’t visit us, maybe he does visit your friends but God blesses Mommy so that she is able to buy you nice presents. I think she got it. I told her all about the birth of Jesus, his parents, the manger, and the sacrifice he made so that we could live. She said, “and now he’s in the sky right Mommy”? “Because he died for you and me right Mommy”? Ah ha! Don’t underestimate small children. They listen, and soak up knowledge like a sponge and they remember. They watch us and they mimic our actions, and learn our behavior. Her concepts are a little fuzzy, but still her understanding is brilliant for a four year old. I keep quizzing her periodically and for the most part, she is on point.

The birth of Jesus is the most important contribution known to man. When I think about it, I always get overwhelmed and my heart leaps for the birth of Christ. To be born so that I could live. So that I could be saved. I can never articulate my true feelings about this, because the feelings are too great for words. All day long, I just said out loud, Happy Birthday Jesus! Thanking God for his son. My pastor preached an awesome message on Christmas morning.

I ate a little more than I should have over the past few days. It’s alright though, because I feel fine about it. We went to visit a few different family members, and the food was great. Day #2 and I look like I should move away from the table. After I’ve had my fill, now I’m sick of eating it, I’ve had enough! Lol..

We were truly blessed this holiday season. I received some nice gifts. Very loving and thoughtful gifts. My kids were triple blessed. I love watching their faces light up with excitement while ripping their gifts apart. I love receiving, but also enjoy giving. My four year old ended up with six coats.

That’s right six really nice coats. I was very happy, but also knew she didn’t need six coats. Two were purchased by me, and the other four were gifts. I thought, this is a great time to teach her the value of giving to someone else. She was all for it, and picked out a coat and a recipient right away. My son also ended up with three coats. I’m telling you, we were blessed! When your blessed, you have to bless someone else. So, I figure it’s the perfect time for a giveaway. I’ve already given away one coat, and still have two size 5 girls coats both are fitting a little too snug, and one size 10/12 boys coat that is too small for my son.. Their are no rules, or no follow guidelines for this giveaway, I just feel compelled to share our blessings. I don’t have gift receipts and have no clue where the coats were purchased so return options are out. If any of you, my readers know anyone in need, direct them here. Just tell me the coat you want and whoever does that first will have it. It’s that simple. I will leave my email address at the end of this post so that the winner can give me their contact info, and I will mail the coat through united states postal service within 10 days.

Here are the coats up for grabs. Aren’t they adorable?

Here are a few pics I snapped of the kids throughout the last few days. I took not one outfit picture of myself. It’s been so much excitement going on for the past few days, I honestly forgot.

She had a ball on her new scooter and looks fashionably cute in here dinosaur helmet(walmart)

she loves this pillow pet, a gift from great-gma.

I hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed holiday. So tell me, Did you get any good gifts?

Peace and blessings,
Dee
cheapandfabmom@gmail.com

Caught up..

Hello Dears.. I’ve missed you, as well as my blog. I have been doing so much that I just needed to breathe. Someone gave me great advice to recharge and refuel, so I’ve been trying to practice that principle. I think I’m good to go now so, leggo. Forgive me if this runs long, but I gotta catch you guys up. (warning: this post is kinda picture heavy)
Ok last week, I was a tad bit preoccupied. My guest post over at soshewrites had been been birthed, and I was excited about it. The piece I wrote was so much a part of me, that I was a little nervous to reveal it. I had to be true about it though, so fears had to be pushed to the back. I’ve had good responses about the post and I’m grateful for all the lovely comments folks left me. The blog host Miss Dre was very good about the whole thing and encouraged me tremendously. I appreciate her giving my ideas a voice on her blog. It’s not often that you see women truly in support of other women and their work so this was a refreshing breath of air. Thanks Dre!!
My week at work was a doozy. I was blown on so many levels. All I can say is, the devil be busy! All week long. I almost gave in to exactly what my flesh was feeling but then, I wouldn’t have had a job. I thank the holy spirit for putting me in check. I began to realize what was going on. My spirit was under attack. We would be here all day if I start on that story, so that will have to be for another day. Don’t get it twisted, I’m thankful that I have a job and I don’t want to spend time complaining since I’m gonna get my job-working behind right up tomorrow and punch that clock! Lol.. I took several outfit pics through the week and wasn’t happy with them, so I won’t upload those. Well this one doesn’t look so bad.
I wore: Stripped tank- Target, Cardi- Old Navy, belt- thrifted, Skirt- old thrift, Tights- Target, Boots- Target

Yesterday, I went on a shopping trip to New York. I had a fab time, and we kinda shopped til we dropped. I didn’t buy a whole lot, but everybody else on the trip acted like I bought the whole town. I left with three tops, a coat, one dress, one pair of pants, and a pair of shoes. See, not alot at all. Of course I purchased a few gifts for friends and fam, and a few for the kiddies too. Forever21, Old Navy, and H & M were totally different and so much better than the ones in my city. I even got to visit the the beautiful Zara store. Aaaahhh, it was all so awesome. We went to Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and China Town. It was sooooo crowded. New York is widely overpopulated like, nobody should be single. Ever. It’s so many choices, that I just don’t see it happening. Anyway, it was an entire day of shopping and I got back home about midnight. Here are a few pics of me and my shopping gear. (gotta be dressed comfy for long shopping)

For the past several weeks my pastor has been teaching this series on faith, finances, and family. I didn’t want to miss out on that message today, so I made sure that I was getting up no matter how tired I was. I decided to shop my closet for an outfit. I’m learning through this series that I don’t always have to buy a new outfit, or wear new clothes. Trust me, I have more than enough choices in my wardrobe, so I’m gonna try this shop my closet approach for a while. True, I did purchase some new items yesterday, but I didn’t go ham like I’ve been known to do in the past. I’m gonna try to keep my purchases to a minimum. I need to gain financial freedom. When I do purchase, I want it to be smart purchases. I shop thrift stores, and clearance racks, and I will discount to the end of time. But even still, that can add up. The fact of the matter is, I have some debt, and I need to gain freedom over that. I’m so on this Family Finance series because it is so where I am right now. I’m noticing a shift in my life in so many areas and I am gladly open to receive the change. It’s good to evolve, and I’m ready. So on to my blog. It’s going to be so diverse and I just hope you all stick with me through my ramblings, motherhood woes, life lessons, and other things according to Dee. Buckle up guys, it’s gonna be an interesting ride. Now on to my outfit for the day. I shopped in the archives for everything except the coat and $1 scarf from new york. Yep $1 and I love it

I’m wearing:
Denim Top- Ross dress for less
Denim skirt- Old Navy (5 yrs old)
Blazer Anne Taylor- thrifted
Belt- Forever21
Tights- Target
Booties- Bare Feet
Coat- New York
Shades- D & G
Bag- TJMax
Necklace- Lori’s
Bracelets, rings- H & M, F21
Watch- Thrifted
Earring- Rashidagurl (luv,luv, luv them)

These indoor pics might be a little blurry or dark. (sorry)

Terrible me didn’t snap any pics of the kids either. Here’s one I took of baby girl at school.

And another of twenty doing what she does all the time, heading to work. Poor child is a full time college student and recently just down graded from two jobs to one. I can’t say I don’t admire her hustle because I do. She’s determined and hardworking. I’m glad she cut back to just one job though, cause she be looking worn out.

Forgive me for the long post and ramblings, but this is what happens when one doesn’t post for a week! Next week, I’m challenging myself to post everyday or atleast every other day. You guys, my readers are everything to me. Stay tuned.

Peace and blessings,
Dee

The proof is in the pudding

Hello Dears,
Just wanted to stop in a do a quick outfit post. Today is my one of my daughters 15th birthday. I’m devoting my time to celebrating her, so I’m gonna make this quick. I have so much to talk about, but I’ll spread it out over the week. Stay tuned, it’s gonna be good.

Yesterday, was a glorious day. The kids and I went to 9:30 service yesterday and it was a great service. I had an awesome experience and I rode that feeling all day long. After church, we went out for brunch like we usually do on Sunday. Four was so impressed with her food, and how pretty it was that she asked me to take a picture of it. Ha!

This post will be more pictures than writing and I’m almost done because I have to go and celebrate my bday girl. Here’s a picture I snapped of her this morning. Isn’t she gorgeous, and she is totally a fashionista. She’s creative and makes things and really is in touch with her own sense of style.
Fifteen is wearing:
Shirt- Wet Seal
Skirt-Forever21
Tights- Rue21
Boots- Target
Jacket- Gap/thrifted

My kids aren’t into taking pictures like that. My son ask, is this for your blog, oh no! Lol..
So it’s just me and baby girl, who is always camera ready.
Four is wearing
Shirt- H&M
Pants- Target
Faux leather- Rainbow for kids
Fur Leopard vest- Target
Shoes- Target

I’m wearing a serious bargain outfit. I do not play. Just to prove my barginista ways, I’ll include the prices this time. I love the different variations of green from the skirt, sweater, tights, and shoes.
V-neck sweater- Target $9.99
Skirt- Old Navy $3.98
Tights- Target $5
Patent leather belt- thrifted $1
Green patent leather shoes- old thrift were brand new- $6
Pearls- old
Pearl earrings- beauty supply $1
Bracelets- F21, H&M, Urban outfitters

So you see, a complete, and fabulous outfit for under $30 bucks.
Also the purse I wore, not shown here was $3 also thrifted. Tsk. Tsk. It is not a game! The proof is in the pudding.
Hope you enjoyed!
Peace and blessings
Dee