Attitude Refreshed.

In my new role at my job "it" involves many meetings, notes on top of more notes, and a willingness to do homework. There was a time in my life where once the end of the business day comes so do my efforts towards "it." I'm now in a position where I really want maximize my professionalism.

I always want to know what I'm doing and to be able to perform tasks with high efficiency. "This" is a first where I actually want to do the homework necessary to become more competent in my role. As tired as I feel right now, I'm going to study accordingly and be as ready as I need to be for the meeting tomorrow morning.

My mom used to say I had a very bad attitude. Sometimes I do, but it's not something I'm proud of so "it" is being checked daily as I remain aware of my need to improve in "this" area. I'm so grateful and appreciative for the faith, that my colleagues have in me, "that" I refuse to just float with the workflow. I plan to grow personally and professionally with "this" opportunity.

More than a splash I am. I'm a wave of new energy with a renewed spirit fit for regal crowning. 

Got my new bag. 

Next, I'm getting new shoes to go with my new walk. 

#strut

I Love. My Friends.

...just when I'm feeling down with my back against the wall, "something" special happens, which reminds me, that I am fine just as I am and everything will fall into it's proper place at the right time!

Nineteen Years Ago. "This" Date.

I was 19-years old. I almost accidentally checked out of life due to personal lack of self-control and rage during a moment... which eventually passed. The experience changed me. I'll have to say for the better. Had I not gone through suffering the consequences of such behavior "that" day; there's no telling what today for me, would be.

"It" may have been around "this" very hour on March 11, 1997. I remember waking up in the intensive care unit at Daniel Freeman Memorial Hospital, hooked up to monitors with my family surrounded around me. I remember exactly what my mother and brother said to me. My mom said, that I had been in surgery a long time. My brother asked me who was involved and told me he would go blow up the spot...

###

Time really does fly by.

 I love & miss them... They each equipped me with the strength and courage to stand. As I do now.  

Life checked me.

GOD Saved Me!!!

#LessonsLearned

*Daniel Freeman Memorial Hospital's emergency staff were on task, highly-skilled in their medical professions and helped to save my life. They also helped me give birth to new life and assisted with saving hers. How could a place like "this" close?

It's all about the money.

My Black History: Day 16.

My Lovely Little Family!!!

"This" is our Black Present.

My Black History: Day 10.

I'm so glad that I didn't miss "this" moment with my mother. It was her retirement party at work.

I certainly miss her physical presence now...

Thank you LORD for blessing me with a mother who did her best raising me and my brother!!!

 Kiss him for me. 

My Black History: Day 6.

Today, I'm remembering those who've influenced me most, but have gone on to glory.

My Black History: In Memoriam

Granny (My mama's mom) - I was only able to spend 7-years with you before you were called, but I'm forever grateful for the sweet memories, that just don't leave my mind and heart.

Mrs. Smith (6th grade gifted/choir teacher) - I know that love exists in the hood and not everyone stereotypes because you allowed me to be the person GOD designed me to be without judgement.

Spook (My big brother) - I believe in myself and my abilities because you reminded me, that I'm important.

Kristen (My classmate from Pasadena City College) - I can laugh at time because of you. I only knew you for a short period, but you shared some special moments and insights about family with me, that I'll cherish forever.

Mrs. Mary & Jimbo Swift (Caretakers of my eldest daughter/substitute parents) - I was able to pursue my goals of completing college because the two of you allowed me the break from time, that I needed as a young, single-parent trying to build a stable foundation for my little family.

Ma (My biological mother) - I possess the strength you instilled within me and I maintain because you taught me how to survive.

These seven individuals made a huge impact on my life. I remember them everyday. I will forever treasure the stories of our lives together and continue to honor you with thoughtful action. May all of your souls continue to rest peacefully with our Lord, Savior and Father!!!

#MyRockAngels4Life

Get One. A Mentor.

I am so incredibly privileged to be mentored by a woman who is such a beautiful and dedicated person. We were paired together by the Student Support Services Program (SSS) at CSUDH and Women and Philanthropy of Carson, California. Her name is Alison Bruesehoff, Director of Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum.

We were introduced in Spring of 2010, but not in person. There was a luncheon that took place on campus where students and the organization (Women and Philanthropy) could get acquainted. It was in the evening that day and I had a class that I couldn't miss so I arrived at the luncheon when it was almost over.

A few weeks later, my SSS advisor told me that I had been paired with Alison and that she thought we'd do well together. It took a few more weeks before we met. Since meeting, we've become friends and I cherish the wisdom she shares with me.

Not only does she make herself available to meet with me, but she invites me in. She includes me and my children to attend and participate in various special events that are held at the museum. We go out to lunch and I can volunteer whenever I want. There are no walls in between our relationship and it's apparent that we come from two different backgrounds.

What we have in common is a drive to succeed and an unselfish desire to help others.

Alison is a wealth of knowledge for me on so many levels. She is an established professional and a wife. So much more, but those two titles are positions that I'm (currently) curious about holding myself. I'm so grateful to have her in my life to answer the inquiries that I have.

It's like having an educated and experienced big sister who does not judge my actions. Rather, she listens to my thoughts and helps me sort through them. She observes my actions while helping me to find balance with the paths that I've chosen. She encourages me to follow my passion(s) and to pursue my dreams. I love her! :)

This is my first experience with a mentor and I can't imagine not having one now.