My daughter is full of surprises!
Christmas 2006: Her gift to me was a grandchild. Mind you, it wasn't something I asked for or wanted from my 16-year-old but she gave it to me anyway.
Christmas 2007: Her gift to me was an ATTITUDE. She was still upset over the fact that I was upset overher decision to keep her baby. I tried desperately to push adoption as the best alternative. She couldn't see that I was thinking of the best interest of the child of an unwed teen.
So here we are Christmas 2008. After spending a year of repairing our feelings of hurt and anger, my daughter decided to give me a series of gifts by making her MESS -- her MESSAGE.
1) She graduated from high school ON TIME. She pulled it off even after discovering five months before graduation that she was one Math credit short and had to re-arrange her whole schedule in order to make up the Math class. She did all of this while holding down a part-time job.
2) She was determined to go to college and did what was necessary to make it happen.
3) She potty trained her son. I told her if she expected me to keep him while she was away, I wasn't going to be changing dirty diapers. Jarod was potty trained at 18-months.
The best gift of all---
She made the Dean's List during her first semester at North Carolina A&T University.
There is a blessing in every storm.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
A Charlie Brown Christmas Tradition Lives On
Earlier this week, A Charlie Brown Christmas came on television. Ever since my daughter was a little girl, we used to sit and watch it together---the same as I did with my parents when I was little. This year, however, my daughter was away at college so I completely forgot about that particular mother-daughter holiday tradition. (My two-year-old grandson was spending the night with his other grandparents so he wasn't available).
But while on Twitter, one of my followers, Carla Nix, announced that she was watching it with her daughter, which sparked some memories.
So in keeping with the tradition, I called my 18-year-old college freshman and we sat on the phone and watched it together. She knew the part I would cry on and we laughed together as we reminicsed about the Charlie Brown Christmases of the past. She reminded me of the crazy dances I would do during the Charlie Brown gang rehearsal scene and the times I used to call her from work when the show was on.
As a baby boomer parent, I am discovering there are some traditions that should live on no matter how old we get. Those traditions live on even unto death.
What traditions do you still celebrate with loved ones?
But while on Twitter, one of my followers, Carla Nix, announced that she was watching it with her daughter, which sparked some memories.
So in keeping with the tradition, I called my 18-year-old college freshman and we sat on the phone and watched it together. She knew the part I would cry on and we laughed together as we reminicsed about the Charlie Brown Christmases of the past. She reminded me of the crazy dances I would do during the Charlie Brown gang rehearsal scene and the times I used to call her from work when the show was on.
As a baby boomer parent, I am discovering there are some traditions that should live on no matter how old we get. Those traditions live on even unto death.
What traditions do you still celebrate with loved ones?
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Teaching Your Child to Walk Your Talk
On Friday, I went to visit my daughter in college. Actually, it wasn't a formal visit. Her step-dad and I went there to bring her computer home in advance of her returning home next week for Christmas break.
One of the things I immediately noticed was her snack ration was seriously depleted. Since the beginning of the school year (August), we have spent a few hundred dollars in keeping her supplied with lots of goodies for her late night munchies and those days when the cafeteria food "sucks" as she says.
When I inquired about where her supply was, she told me she had been sharing her food with others in her dorm. Of course, my first reaction was, "Why are you sharing YOUR stuff? These kids have parents! Don't they send them anything? What makes you think it's your responsibility to feed everyone else? Besides, they have a meal plan--just like you!"
My daughter, very calmly said, "Mom, I don't see what you're getting so bent out of shape about. Haven't you been teaching me all of my life to share? I thought I was doing a good thing. I feel blessed to be in a position to share with others who are a little less fortunate."
OK...this was MY DAUGHTER talking. This is the same "only child" who cried when we gave her leftover food to a homeless man while we were on vacation---food, we knew she would never eat. This is the same person who had a job (in high school) but preferred you spend your money on her.
But then I got to thinking: I spent 18 years doing my best to "train up a child in the way that she should go..." (Proverbs 22:6) and many times I thought I was just talking to myself. But lo and behold, she was listening.
Is your child walking your talk? The better question might be: Are you saying anything worth listening to?
One of the things I immediately noticed was her snack ration was seriously depleted. Since the beginning of the school year (August), we have spent a few hundred dollars in keeping her supplied with lots of goodies for her late night munchies and those days when the cafeteria food "sucks" as she says.
When I inquired about where her supply was, she told me she had been sharing her food with others in her dorm. Of course, my first reaction was, "Why are you sharing YOUR stuff? These kids have parents! Don't they send them anything? What makes you think it's your responsibility to feed everyone else? Besides, they have a meal plan--just like you!"
My daughter, very calmly said, "Mom, I don't see what you're getting so bent out of shape about. Haven't you been teaching me all of my life to share? I thought I was doing a good thing. I feel blessed to be in a position to share with others who are a little less fortunate."
OK...this was MY DAUGHTER talking. This is the same "only child" who cried when we gave her leftover food to a homeless man while we were on vacation---food, we knew she would never eat. This is the same person who had a job (in high school) but preferred you spend your money on her.
But then I got to thinking: I spent 18 years doing my best to "train up a child in the way that she should go..." (Proverbs 22:6) and many times I thought I was just talking to myself. But lo and behold, she was listening.
Is your child walking your talk? The better question might be: Are you saying anything worth listening to?
Friday, December 05, 2008
Your and Your Child's Teacher on Facebook
Teachers on Facebook has generated quite a bit of discussion over the past few weeks here in North Carolina. At least one teacher has been fired and several others suspended for posting comments and pictures unbecoming of an Educator.
I asked this question before. What difference does it make what a teacher does in his or her spare time as long as it isn't directly affecting his/her job? Now when a teacher posted a comment on her Facebook page that she hated her students--that was, in my opinion, just cause for her dismissal.
But what about those teachers out there who are looking for a love connection. If you're a single parent and the teacher just happens to teach your child--do you see any harm in "hooking up"?
I posed this question to my husband and his answer surprised me. He said he saw nothing wrong with it. He said "parents and teachers need love too."
What do you say?
I asked this question before. What difference does it make what a teacher does in his or her spare time as long as it isn't directly affecting his/her job? Now when a teacher posted a comment on her Facebook page that she hated her students--that was, in my opinion, just cause for her dismissal.
But what about those teachers out there who are looking for a love connection. If you're a single parent and the teacher just happens to teach your child--do you see any harm in "hooking up"?
I posed this question to my husband and his answer surprised me. He said he saw nothing wrong with it. He said "parents and teachers need love too."
What do you say?
Monday, December 01, 2008
Your Teacher Hates Your Child
As a baby boomer parent, I am disturbed to read more and more stories about teachers and students connecting on social networking sites for purposes other than school work. But what is equally as troubling is the fact that some teachers are using their web pages to say derogatory things about the kids they teach. Recently, a high-school special-education teacher was suspended for using a Facebook “mood box” to post “I'm feeling p----- because I hate my students!”
In another NC case, the Superintendent has recommended firing a Thomasboro Elementary teacher whose page said she was “teaching in the most ghetto school in Charlotte” and described her students as “chitlins.” Her lawyer said his client intended no offense to her students and was simply telling the truth about resegregated schools in CMS.
Some teachers say what they do on their own time is their business and as long as it doesn’t affect the way they teach, it shouldn’t matter. Is this a generational thing?
What do you say?
In another NC case, the Superintendent has recommended firing a Thomasboro Elementary teacher whose page said she was “teaching in the most ghetto school in Charlotte” and described her students as “chitlins.” Her lawyer said his client intended no offense to her students and was simply telling the truth about resegregated schools in CMS.
Some teachers say what they do on their own time is their business and as long as it doesn’t affect the way they teach, it shouldn’t matter. Is this a generational thing?
What do you say?
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Your Children, Their Teachers and Social Networking
Should your children be allowed to interact with their teachers through social networking web sites such as Facebook and MySpace?
A new policy is being considered by the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education in North Carolina on Tuesday, Dec. 2. This policy strongly recommends that school-system employees not communicate with students through such sites.
The policy also strongly recommends that employees not list students as "friends" on their personal pages unless the student is a relative and warns that any communication between employees and students should be appropriate.
Some teachers say they see social networking as helpful for creating connections with struggling students who might be afraid to speak up in class or in person.
So what do you think? Is there harm in students connecting with their teachers online? Should there be guildelines?
A new policy is being considered by the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education in North Carolina on Tuesday, Dec. 2. This policy strongly recommends that school-system employees not communicate with students through such sites.
The policy also strongly recommends that employees not list students as "friends" on their personal pages unless the student is a relative and warns that any communication between employees and students should be appropriate.
Some teachers say they see social networking as helpful for creating connections with struggling students who might be afraid to speak up in class or in person.
So what do you think? Is there harm in students connecting with their teachers online? Should there be guildelines?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
When a Mother's Love Goes Too Far
What mom hasn't gone above and beyond for her child at some point? If the truth be told, some of us could be accused of doing too much for our children. But just like with everything else, you must draw the line when it comes to protecting or standing up for them.
What kind of love drove 49-year-old Lori Drew to pose as a 16-year-old boy on MySpace to harass a 13-year-old girl who had a falling out with her daughter? What message was this woman sending by conspiring with two others in creating and maintaining a MySpace profile for a non-existent 16-year-old boy named "Josh Evans" in the summer of 2006. This baby boomer "ought to know better" mother used the account to flirt with and befriend 13-year-old Megan Meier, who later committed suicide after being told by Drew/Josh told Meier the world would be a better place without her.
Sadly, there is no law on the books that can charge her with anything more than computer hacking for allegedly violating MySpace's terms of service with the intent of inflicting emotional distress.
So what do you think? Is Drew a sicko mom who is guilty of causing this young girl's death or is she just a mother whose over-protective nature got out of control? And how would you go about protecting your child from the likes of a Lori Drew or any other cyberspace bully?
Meanwhile, Drews guilt or innocence will be determined by a jury in a trial that began today.
What kind of love drove 49-year-old Lori Drew to pose as a 16-year-old boy on MySpace to harass a 13-year-old girl who had a falling out with her daughter? What message was this woman sending by conspiring with two others in creating and maintaining a MySpace profile for a non-existent 16-year-old boy named "Josh Evans" in the summer of 2006. This baby boomer "ought to know better" mother used the account to flirt with and befriend 13-year-old Megan Meier, who later committed suicide after being told by Drew/Josh told Meier the world would be a better place without her.
Sadly, there is no law on the books that can charge her with anything more than computer hacking for allegedly violating MySpace's terms of service with the intent of inflicting emotional distress.
So what do you think? Is Drew a sicko mom who is guilty of causing this young girl's death or is she just a mother whose over-protective nature got out of control? And how would you go about protecting your child from the likes of a Lori Drew or any other cyberspace bully?
Meanwhile, Drews guilt or innocence will be determined by a jury in a trial that began today.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
The New First Grandma is Going to the White House
There's a report out on the Politico website that the White House might be getting its first "First Grandma."
According to the article, 71-year-old Marian Anderson, mother of First lady Michelle Obama and mother-in-law of President-Elect Barack Obama, will be moving to the Nation's Capital to offer some much needed assistance to the family.
Throughout the past two years, it was Grandma Marian who made sure the Obamas' daughters, Malia and Sasha, were well taken care of while mom and dad were on the campaign trail. She was quoted in the Boston Globe saying, “If somebody's going to be with these kids other than their parents, it better be me."
The First Grandma is just doing what any grandmother who wants the best for her family would do. I applaud Marian "Grandma Diva" Anderson for playing such an important role in her grandchildren's lives.
Certainly she doesn't need any tips from me--but hopefully Michelle will let her read the book I gave her, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age, so she can have a laugh or two during the "trying" times.
One thing for sure, when my grandson becomes President--I'll be right there with him. But I'll be serving in a different role. I think I'll be his Chief of Staff.
According to the article, 71-year-old Marian Anderson, mother of First lady Michelle Obama and mother-in-law of President-Elect Barack Obama, will be moving to the Nation's Capital to offer some much needed assistance to the family.
Throughout the past two years, it was Grandma Marian who made sure the Obamas' daughters, Malia and Sasha, were well taken care of while mom and dad were on the campaign trail. She was quoted in the Boston Globe saying, “If somebody's going to be with these kids other than their parents, it better be me."
The First Grandma is just doing what any grandmother who wants the best for her family would do. I applaud Marian "Grandma Diva" Anderson for playing such an important role in her grandchildren's lives.
Certainly she doesn't need any tips from me--but hopefully Michelle will let her read the book I gave her, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age, so she can have a laugh or two during the "trying" times.
One thing for sure, when my grandson becomes President--I'll be right there with him. But I'll be serving in a different role. I think I'll be his Chief of Staff.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Take an Aids Test for College Extra Credit
College sure has changed a lot since I went more than 30 years ago. I recall earning extra credit in my political science class by going to see the movie Casa Blanca and then writing an analysis of the movie as it related to a topic given to the class by the instructor.
Well, it seems that in my college daughter’s Health Studies class the students have been given the opportunity to earn extra credit by going to their Student Health Services Center and taking an aids test. God forbid that some of those young people discover they have the deadly disease. But it doesn’t matter because they will still get extra credit.
So what has college come to when students are being coaxed into taking an aids test? And why would a health class be MANDATORY for all incoming freshmen?
What’s next? When she takes Economics will she have to come up with a bailout plan for Wall Street?
Well, it seems that in my college daughter’s Health Studies class the students have been given the opportunity to earn extra credit by going to their Student Health Services Center and taking an aids test. God forbid that some of those young people discover they have the deadly disease. But it doesn’t matter because they will still get extra credit.
So what has college come to when students are being coaxed into taking an aids test? And why would a health class be MANDATORY for all incoming freshmen?
What’s next? When she takes Economics will she have to come up with a bailout plan for Wall Street?
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Change My Grandson Can Believe In
When I was growing up, my parents always told me I could be whatever I wanted. I always believed that inspite of living in a nation where the color of your skin plays more of a factor in your success than your knowledge and education.
I have passed on that same message to my daughter who, in spite of being a teenage mom, is striving to beat the odds by pursuing her college education in order to live out her goals and aspirations.
As a 51-year-old baby boomer, I never thought I would live to witness the events of November 4, 2008. That is the day the majority of America voted to elect the first African-American man as President of the United States. So now when I tell my grandson, who is as smart as a pistol and already wooing people with his charm and personality, that he can be anything he wants---I will say it with conviction. YES, HE CAN!
Thank you President-Elect Barack Obama and 51 percent of the American voters who gave my grandson the change he can believe in!
I have passed on that same message to my daughter who, in spite of being a teenage mom, is striving to beat the odds by pursuing her college education in order to live out her goals and aspirations.
As a 51-year-old baby boomer, I never thought I would live to witness the events of November 4, 2008. That is the day the majority of America voted to elect the first African-American man as President of the United States. So now when I tell my grandson, who is as smart as a pistol and already wooing people with his charm and personality, that he can be anything he wants---I will say it with conviction. YES, HE CAN!
Thank you President-Elect Barack Obama and 51 percent of the American voters who gave my grandson the change he can believe in!
Friday, October 24, 2008
House Rules are House Rules
Last Friday my college daughter came home for her Fall Break. During her four-day stay, she stepped back into the role of mommy again to her two-year-old son Jarod--giving me a much needed break. She also went to work at her Burger King job. Burger King keeps her as an active employee and welcomes her back anytime she comes home for an extended period.
THANK YOU BURGER KING!
But also during the course of her stay, my daughter got the idea that the same rules that applied when she was living under my roof were now null and void. For her, that meant didn't have to adhere to a curfew. After all, she's a college student--living away from home and can stay out as long as she wants. As she told me, "I can stay out all night if I want."
Funny, I told my mother that same thing when I was in college--and guess what? I told my daughter the SAME thing my mother told me: "As long as you are technically still under my roof, you're going to have to live by the house rules. That means you will be home by a certain time." (Instead of the 11pm curfew, I did extend it to 1am).
I did let her know there was an escape clause.
"You can take over the mortgage and the other bills and have free reign. No problem!"
THANK YOU BURGER KING!
But also during the course of her stay, my daughter got the idea that the same rules that applied when she was living under my roof were now null and void. For her, that meant didn't have to adhere to a curfew. After all, she's a college student--living away from home and can stay out as long as she wants. As she told me, "I can stay out all night if I want."
Funny, I told my mother that same thing when I was in college--and guess what? I told my daughter the SAME thing my mother told me: "As long as you are technically still under my roof, you're going to have to live by the house rules. That means you will be home by a certain time." (Instead of the 11pm curfew, I did extend it to 1am).
I did let her know there was an escape clause.
"You can take over the mortgage and the other bills and have free reign. No problem!"
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Parents, Help Me Raise My Grandchild
This is an urgent plea to parents everywhere. I really need your help in raising my grandson.
I have been spending the last year of Jarod’s two-year-old life teaching him manners and respect. He knows to say “Thank you” when you give him something or do something nice for him. He is learning how to say “Yes ma’am/No sir” as a show of respect for his elders. He gives generous hugs to family members and his daycare friends and will even try to console you if he senses you are sad. He can even say “excuse me” if he bumps you accidentally or walks in front of you.
But the problem is he is being raised in a world where children seem to have NO CONCEPT of what morals, values, respect and manners mean. What’s even worse is adults seem to be clueless as well. Case in point: Yesterday, we went to the Post Office. Jarod was trying to hold the heavy door open for a lady who was coming out. Instead of acknowledging his effort, the woman seemed annoyed and forcibly pushed the door open and hurried past us. I said “thank you” to my grandson because I wanted him to know his efforts were appreciated.
I have seen children totally out of control and disrespectful in front of their parents and I am always baffled that the child isn’t jacked up and given a beat down. I’m not talking about teenagers either. I’m talking about those three-to-eight-year-olds who, obviously, were never taught proper behavior.
Parents, the world is counting on you to bring up the next generation of responsible and respectable adults. But how will your children learn how to act and survive if you haven’t given them the tools necessary? How can they differentiate between good and bad behavior if all they ever see if a loud, foul-mouthed parent who is always right, never listens and dares anyone to chastise their child for wrong behavior?
Do your part. Raise your child so my job will be a little easier.
I have been spending the last year of Jarod’s two-year-old life teaching him manners and respect. He knows to say “Thank you” when you give him something or do something nice for him. He is learning how to say “Yes ma’am/No sir” as a show of respect for his elders. He gives generous hugs to family members and his daycare friends and will even try to console you if he senses you are sad. He can even say “excuse me” if he bumps you accidentally or walks in front of you.
But the problem is he is being raised in a world where children seem to have NO CONCEPT of what morals, values, respect and manners mean. What’s even worse is adults seem to be clueless as well. Case in point: Yesterday, we went to the Post Office. Jarod was trying to hold the heavy door open for a lady who was coming out. Instead of acknowledging his effort, the woman seemed annoyed and forcibly pushed the door open and hurried past us. I said “thank you” to my grandson because I wanted him to know his efforts were appreciated.
I have seen children totally out of control and disrespectful in front of their parents and I am always baffled that the child isn’t jacked up and given a beat down. I’m not talking about teenagers either. I’m talking about those three-to-eight-year-olds who, obviously, were never taught proper behavior.
Parents, the world is counting on you to bring up the next generation of responsible and respectable adults. But how will your children learn how to act and survive if you haven’t given them the tools necessary? How can they differentiate between good and bad behavior if all they ever see if a loud, foul-mouthed parent who is always right, never listens and dares anyone to chastise their child for wrong behavior?
Do your part. Raise your child so my job will be a little easier.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Baby Boomer Divas Reach Out and Touch
You know, there's something special when grown-ups can connect with young people in a positive way. That's what Bern Nadette Stanis did today when she spoke to the drama class at Hillside High School in Durham, NC. I arranged to have her speak there because of my admiration and respect for their drama teacher Wendell Tabb.
Even before we could get inside the school a student spotted her from a distance and started yelling "Thelma! Thelma!" How she could see that far away is beyond me. Before I knew it we we swarmed by excited teenagers. These are teens who weren't even born when Good Times was on the air! Still, they were starry-eyed and anxious to get up close and personal with someone they've seen on the TV Land re-runs.
The crowd became so large at one point, sheriff's deputies had to be called in because they thought there was a big gang fight going on! Once they realized it was Thelma they, too, became star struck and starting pulling out camera phones to get a picture.
For more than an hour, the students sat attentively as Bern Nadette told them about her journey in the world of acting. She even did an improvisation with some of the students.
Watching Bern Nadette in action today makes me honored to have her as a member of Boomer Diva Nation. Our motto is: Women on the Move and Making a Difference---and that she certainly did!
NOW HERE'S THE REST OF MY DAY.......
9am: Phone rings. I'm dead asleep. It's Bern Nadette's Publicist, Sheila. She asks me if I'm coming to pick her up from the airport (she missed her flight yesterday). I'm not sure what I mumbled, however, she decided it would be best if she took the shuttle and allowed me to get some more sleep. Bless her heart!
10:00am: Get dressed to go to the airport to pick up Dr. Stan Fine (author of Business Boot Camp for Women) and his wife, Bethany. I had trouble finding him but there was no way he could miss me with my Diva green jacket on. We went to lunch at Quiznos.
12:15pm: Picked up Bern Nadette to go to Hillside H.S.
3pm: We had lunch at Blue Coffee Cafe---yes, I had two lunches :)
4:30pm: Picked up Debbie Zipp from the airport
Friday: 6:32pm EST
I'm finally home after spending ALL DAY on the road here and there and everywhere. After dropping Thelma--I mean Bern Nadette--off at the hotel last night, I went home and continued making final preparations for Saturday's Business Boot Camp for Women's Event. I didn't get to bed until about 3am.
working.
Even before we could get inside the school a student spotted her from a distance and started yelling "Thelma! Thelma!" How she could see that far away is beyond me. Before I knew it we we swarmed by excited teenagers. These are teens who weren't even born when Good Times was on the air! Still, they were starry-eyed and anxious to get up close and personal with someone they've seen on the TV Land re-runs.
The crowd became so large at one point, sheriff's deputies had to be called in because they thought there was a big gang fight going on! Once they realized it was Thelma they, too, became star struck and starting pulling out camera phones to get a picture.
For more than an hour, the students sat attentively as Bern Nadette told them about her journey in the world of acting. She even did an improvisation with some of the students.
Watching Bern Nadette in action today makes me honored to have her as a member of Boomer Diva Nation. Our motto is: Women on the Move and Making a Difference---and that she certainly did!
NOW HERE'S THE REST OF MY DAY.......
9am: Phone rings. I'm dead asleep. It's Bern Nadette's Publicist, Sheila. She asks me if I'm coming to pick her up from the airport (she missed her flight yesterday). I'm not sure what I mumbled, however, she decided it would be best if she took the shuttle and allowed me to get some more sleep. Bless her heart!
10:00am: Get dressed to go to the airport to pick up Dr. Stan Fine (author of Business Boot Camp for Women) and his wife, Bethany. I had trouble finding him but there was no way he could miss me with my Diva green jacket on. We went to lunch at Quiznos.
12:15pm: Picked up Bern Nadette to go to Hillside H.S.
3pm: We had lunch at Blue Coffee Cafe---yes, I had two lunches :)
4:30pm: Picked up Debbie Zipp from the airport
Friday: 6:32pm EST
I'm finally home after spending ALL DAY on the road here and there and everywhere. After dropping Thelma--I mean Bern Nadette--off at the hotel last night, I went home and continued making final preparations for Saturday's Business Boot Camp for Women's Event. I didn't get to bed until about 3am.
working.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way from the Airport
I GOT LOST!!!
What was supposed to be a ten minute ride from the RDU airport to the hotel ended up being more than 30 minutes. I even had to stop at a gas station to ask someone for directions and I STILL GOT LOST.
Why did this happen? Because I was looking to cut down on expenses for my Business Boot Camp for Women Event. Here's the deal: Instead of hiring a limousine service to pick up my celebrity guests for this weekend's Business Boot Camp for Women Event, I decided to save on expenses and become the "celebrity chauffeur."
First guest to arrive is Bern Nadette Stanis. Most people know her as "Thelma" from the 70s hit TV show Good Times. She had to fly from Los Angeles to Atlanta and then to Raleigh-Durham. She was up at the crack of dawn to get here. The plane was about 30 minutes late. So instead of getting here BEFORE 11pm--she arrived closer to 11:45.
I waited patiently to see her come down the escalator. But instead of being one of the first off the plane, she was practically last. That's because we Baby Boomer Divas need to make a grand entrance--and that she did with her dark sunglasses on and bright pink luggage.
It was good to see her again. The last time was in Daytona Beach back in April. She still looks fabulous!
Now it's my job to get her to the hotel. You would think that someone who has lived in this area for more than 20 years would know how to get from point A to point B, but not me.
During this confusion, I learned something interesting about Bern Nadette. She's afraid of the dark---and let me tell you it was pitch black on some of those streets I was traveling on.
But we finally made it after I decided to use my house as my starting point :)
Be sure to stay tuned to this blog to find out more about the behind the scenes stories of my Business Boot Camp for Women Event.
What was supposed to be a ten minute ride from the RDU airport to the hotel ended up being more than 30 minutes. I even had to stop at a gas station to ask someone for directions and I STILL GOT LOST.
Why did this happen? Because I was looking to cut down on expenses for my Business Boot Camp for Women Event. Here's the deal: Instead of hiring a limousine service to pick up my celebrity guests for this weekend's Business Boot Camp for Women Event, I decided to save on expenses and become the "celebrity chauffeur."
First guest to arrive is Bern Nadette Stanis. Most people know her as "Thelma" from the 70s hit TV show Good Times. She had to fly from Los Angeles to Atlanta and then to Raleigh-Durham. She was up at the crack of dawn to get here. The plane was about 30 minutes late. So instead of getting here BEFORE 11pm--she arrived closer to 11:45.
I waited patiently to see her come down the escalator. But instead of being one of the first off the plane, she was practically last. That's because we Baby Boomer Divas need to make a grand entrance--and that she did with her dark sunglasses on and bright pink luggage.
It was good to see her again. The last time was in Daytona Beach back in April. She still looks fabulous!
Now it's my job to get her to the hotel. You would think that someone who has lived in this area for more than 20 years would know how to get from point A to point B, but not me.
During this confusion, I learned something interesting about Bern Nadette. She's afraid of the dark---and let me tell you it was pitch black on some of those streets I was traveling on.
But we finally made it after I decided to use my house as my starting point :)
Be sure to stay tuned to this blog to find out more about the behind the scenes stories of my Business Boot Camp for Women Event.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
What a Difference College Life Makes
It's funny how college can change the relationship between a parent and child. It certainly has changed mine.
Since my daughter went away to school, we talk EVERYDAY. She calls up and says the same thing:
"Whatcha doin'?"
My standard response is, "On the computer."
Then she says, "Guess what?"...and proceeds to tell me a story about something that happened in one of her classes or on the campus.
It's so funny because when we were living in the same house,there were times when we would go without speaking for days. Menopause and PMS ruled our worlds!
But now it seems there is less stress and anxiety to deal with. We're getting along very nicely from a distance. The truth of the matter is, I believe we have come to a point where we are really learning to respect each other. My daughter is finally starting to see there has been a method to my "You better get your butt in gear!" madness for the past four years. I, meanwhile, am seeing a caterpillar begin to break out into a beautiful butterfly.
Yeah, both of us are still a little rough around the edges with even more growing to do----but we now know we have a purpose----and it's a little boy named Jarod.
Since my daughter went away to school, we talk EVERYDAY. She calls up and says the same thing:
"Whatcha doin'?"
My standard response is, "On the computer."
Then she says, "Guess what?"...and proceeds to tell me a story about something that happened in one of her classes or on the campus.
It's so funny because when we were living in the same house,there were times when we would go without speaking for days. Menopause and PMS ruled our worlds!
But now it seems there is less stress and anxiety to deal with. We're getting along very nicely from a distance. The truth of the matter is, I believe we have come to a point where we are really learning to respect each other. My daughter is finally starting to see there has been a method to my "You better get your butt in gear!" madness for the past four years. I, meanwhile, am seeing a caterpillar begin to break out into a beautiful butterfly.
Yeah, both of us are still a little rough around the edges with even more growing to do----but we now know we have a purpose----and it's a little boy named Jarod.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Aids & College Students
Why is it that some people never give a second thought to diseases like cancer or aids until it hits home?
Aids came up on my radar this morning when my daughter called from college to tell me some shocking news. Apparently there is information circulating on her campus that two-thirds of the students who tested for aids/HIV recently found out they were positive.
Granted, the number of students tested was low—a little over 100—in comparison to the student enrollment of more than 11,000---but what raises a more serious question for me, as a parent, is why does aids still seem out of control---especially for young African-Americans? Where is the education? Why have we failed in stressing the point about the fatal results of aids?
I did some research and found these startling facts. North Carolina, the state where my daughter goes to school, ranks in the Top Ten of NEW aids/HIV cases.
As of 2006, these were the reported numbers of new aids cases:
Ages 15-19, 5626
Ages 20-24, 36,225
Ages 25-29, 117,099
Ages 30-34, 197,530
Ages 35-39 213,573
When I mentioned this news on Twitter, one of my followers suggested I remove my daughter from the school. I have a better idea. Make it mandatory for EVERY prospective student take an Aids/HIV test before being allowed to be admitted.
What do you think needs to be done to stop this ever-increasing epidemic?
Aids came up on my radar this morning when my daughter called from college to tell me some shocking news. Apparently there is information circulating on her campus that two-thirds of the students who tested for aids/HIV recently found out they were positive.
Granted, the number of students tested was low—a little over 100—in comparison to the student enrollment of more than 11,000---but what raises a more serious question for me, as a parent, is why does aids still seem out of control---especially for young African-Americans? Where is the education? Why have we failed in stressing the point about the fatal results of aids?
I did some research and found these startling facts. North Carolina, the state where my daughter goes to school, ranks in the Top Ten of NEW aids/HIV cases.
As of 2006, these were the reported numbers of new aids cases:
Ages 15-19, 5626
Ages 20-24, 36,225
Ages 25-29, 117,099
Ages 30-34, 197,530
Ages 35-39 213,573
When I mentioned this news on Twitter, one of my followers suggested I remove my daughter from the school. I have a better idea. Make it mandatory for EVERY prospective student take an Aids/HIV test before being allowed to be admitted.
What do you think needs to be done to stop this ever-increasing epidemic?
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
How to Stay Young
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. An idle mind is the devil's workshop. And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Make that laughter bring you to tears.
6. Learn how to cry sometimes: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to another county---but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. An idle mind is the devil's workshop. And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Make that laughter bring you to tears.
6. Learn how to cry sometimes: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to another county---but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Like Mother, Like Daughter
It happens in many mother-daughter relationships. Sooner or later, you're going to realize you've turned into your mother. I vowed early in life that I would never, ever be like my mom but, for some reason, it just got passed on in the genes.
I discovered my "I'm just like my mother" behavior when I became a parent. I found myself acting like her in terms of how I disciplined my child and dealt with her peers. My mother was a no-nonsense kind of woman. You clearly understood your boundaries as a child. There was no "I'm your mother and your friend" relationship." I wasn't allowed to associate with certain children because my mother knew their parents and if she didn't know the parents, she had to know them FIRST before I was given permission to associate with their children.
So what prompted me to write this today? A phone call from my college daughter. She told me about an encounter she had with one of her Instructors. As she told me the story of how she challenged her, I smiled as I reflected on a few of my own challenges at Ohio University. I thought to myself, "dear, this is just the beginning."
Then she said something that sounded so familiar, "I can't believe it...I'm turning into you!"
Well, maybe that gene pool wasn't so bad after all :)
I discovered my "I'm just like my mother" behavior when I became a parent. I found myself acting like her in terms of how I disciplined my child and dealt with her peers. My mother was a no-nonsense kind of woman. You clearly understood your boundaries as a child. There was no "I'm your mother and your friend" relationship." I wasn't allowed to associate with certain children because my mother knew their parents and if she didn't know the parents, she had to know them FIRST before I was given permission to associate with their children.
So what prompted me to write this today? A phone call from my college daughter. She told me about an encounter she had with one of her Instructors. As she told me the story of how she challenged her, I smiled as I reflected on a few of my own challenges at Ohio University. I thought to myself, "dear, this is just the beginning."
Then she said something that sounded so familiar, "I can't believe it...I'm turning into you!"
Well, maybe that gene pool wasn't so bad after all :)
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Happy Grandparents Day
I am a baby boomer. I am also a grandmother. Today has been designated as a special day for me and millions of others who walk in similar shoes. This is Grandparents’ Day
Grandparent's Day is celebrated in September, on the first Sunday following Labor Day. The idea to create the special day was originated by a woman named Marian McQuade. The West Virginia homemaker and mother of 15 children believed there should be a day to celebrate and honor the lonely elderly in nursing homes. She also hoped to encourage grandchildren to inherit the wisdom and heritage from their grandparents.
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter made it a national holiday. National Grandparents Day was first celebrated on Sunday, September 9, 1979.
Some Grandparent facts:
According to the Census Bureau, there are 6.1 million grandparents who have children under 18-years-old living with them. I am a part of that statistic.
Thirty percent of all children are cared for by grandparents whose parents work outside the home.
The average age of a boomer grandparent is 53.4 years old.
Data shows nearly 40 percent of boomers are grandparents. In real numbers, that translates to roughly 30 million.
More than three-quarters (76.5 percent) of boomer grandparents own their homes, and 46.4 percent generate more than $50,000 in household income.
So, if you’re reading this and you’re a grandparent, Happy Grandparents Day and may God continue to give you the strength to persevere.
Grandparent's Day is celebrated in September, on the first Sunday following Labor Day. The idea to create the special day was originated by a woman named Marian McQuade. The West Virginia homemaker and mother of 15 children believed there should be a day to celebrate and honor the lonely elderly in nursing homes. She also hoped to encourage grandchildren to inherit the wisdom and heritage from their grandparents.
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter made it a national holiday. National Grandparents Day was first celebrated on Sunday, September 9, 1979.
Some Grandparent facts:
According to the Census Bureau, there are 6.1 million grandparents who have children under 18-years-old living with them. I am a part of that statistic.
Thirty percent of all children are cared for by grandparents whose parents work outside the home.
The average age of a boomer grandparent is 53.4 years old.
Data shows nearly 40 percent of boomers are grandparents. In real numbers, that translates to roughly 30 million.
More than three-quarters (76.5 percent) of boomer grandparents own their homes, and 46.4 percent generate more than $50,000 in household income.
So, if you’re reading this and you’re a grandparent, Happy Grandparents Day and may God continue to give you the strength to persevere.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Parenting 101: The First Semester
As a new college parent, I am learning how to step back and allow my daughter to take control of her own. Just like any parent, I want the best for her but I understand my parenting needs to be different.
When you "hover" over your child you build a barrier between you and your college student. You give them the message that they cannot do anything on their own without their mother and father.
Here are some tips I found useful from an article I read recently:
1. Avoid too many phone calls during the week. Establish a once a week time to talk. Use this time to catch up with everything that has happened. It may be 15, 20, or 30 minutes. The point is, you are not there constantly hovering over your new college student. Let them know that if they need to talk, you are available. But don't just call to be calling. You may make them feel as if you're checking up on them.
2. Encourage your college student to seek available resources at school. Make sure your child knows who their academic advisors are and encourage them to seek them out for the advice they need. Other resources include student affairs, career centers, medical clinics and other counseling centers. Your student should be familiar with these resources available to college students.
3. Encourage your child to get involved. Throughout their college years, your child should engage in their college's ongoing student activities. You can also suggest that they volunteer for charitable activities. Healthy activities help to combat some of the loneliness your new college student child may feel when they first go to college. And, it's a perfect opportunity for them to meet a diverse group of friends.
4. Let them be in charge of their own finances. Credit cards are disasters waiting to happen. Adults have issues with credit cards. How can we expect a college student to do better? Instead, you should be clear about their monthly living expenses. Use a debit card and each month deposit a set amount. Do not give ANY additional money, unless there is an emergency. This gets your child in the rhythm of budgeting and will teach them how to become more independent.
When you "hover" over your child you build a barrier between you and your college student. You give them the message that they cannot do anything on their own without their mother and father.
Here are some tips I found useful from an article I read recently:
1. Avoid too many phone calls during the week. Establish a once a week time to talk. Use this time to catch up with everything that has happened. It may be 15, 20, or 30 minutes. The point is, you are not there constantly hovering over your new college student. Let them know that if they need to talk, you are available. But don't just call to be calling. You may make them feel as if you're checking up on them.
2. Encourage your college student to seek available resources at school. Make sure your child knows who their academic advisors are and encourage them to seek them out for the advice they need. Other resources include student affairs, career centers, medical clinics and other counseling centers. Your student should be familiar with these resources available to college students.
3. Encourage your child to get involved. Throughout their college years, your child should engage in their college's ongoing student activities. You can also suggest that they volunteer for charitable activities. Healthy activities help to combat some of the loneliness your new college student child may feel when they first go to college. And, it's a perfect opportunity for them to meet a diverse group of friends.
4. Let them be in charge of their own finances. Credit cards are disasters waiting to happen. Adults have issues with credit cards. How can we expect a college student to do better? Instead, you should be clear about their monthly living expenses. Use a debit card and each month deposit a set amount. Do not give ANY additional money, unless there is an emergency. This gets your child in the rhythm of budgeting and will teach them how to become more independent.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Parenting a College Student
The other day I came across an interesting article about parenting and college students. Since I am now the baby boomer mom of a college freshman, I took note of what it had to say.
The Professor from Emory University offered some tips on Parenting Your College Student.
He says “you won't be able to wait for them to come home – or leave.” Boy, was he right about that! She’s only been away from home for two weeks and she’s come home both weekends. Some people might be starting to question if she’s really in college.
• Don't change your child's room. The student's room is 'home base' – try not to change it very much during his or her first semester away. Freshmen in particular can go through some very difficult times, passing exams, establishing new friendships, surviving in a setting where they are not 'top dog,' and often fearing that admissions has made a mistake – that they do not really belong at college. Give them a 'safe haven.”
I guess that means I won’t get to have that office I was planning on!
• When a problem arises, "move like your feet are stuck in molasses." The temptation is to intervene when a child calls home with a problem. Remember that many resources exist at college to help students cope with various situations.
That's good to know because I did enough "intervening" for the first 18 years of her life!
• Don't expect the same grades in college that the students got in high school. All I have to say to that is, SHE’D BETTER NOT!!!
The Professor from Emory University offered some tips on Parenting Your College Student.
He says “you won't be able to wait for them to come home – or leave.” Boy, was he right about that! She’s only been away from home for two weeks and she’s come home both weekends. Some people might be starting to question if she’s really in college.
• Don't change your child's room. The student's room is 'home base' – try not to change it very much during his or her first semester away. Freshmen in particular can go through some very difficult times, passing exams, establishing new friendships, surviving in a setting where they are not 'top dog,' and often fearing that admissions has made a mistake – that they do not really belong at college. Give them a 'safe haven.”
I guess that means I won’t get to have that office I was planning on!
• When a problem arises, "move like your feet are stuck in molasses." The temptation is to intervene when a child calls home with a problem. Remember that many resources exist at college to help students cope with various situations.
That's good to know because I did enough "intervening" for the first 18 years of her life!
• Don't expect the same grades in college that the students got in high school. All I have to say to that is, SHE’D BETTER NOT!!!
Friday, August 22, 2008
I Survived the First Week of College
I've been reading quite a few blogs this week written by parents whose children have gone off to school for the first time. Many parents express sadness that their little ones are growing up and beginning to leave the nest.
On Monday, my daughter began her freshman year at North Carolina A&T in Greensboro. She's an "Aggie"---whatever that is. Her first class on Monday was at 8am---Math---a subject she not only hates but hasn't done well in since elementary school. She says it's remedial math so all of the students are on the same level---which she finds refreshing. But she did tell me she's starting out with a 4.0 average so I should be proud.
She's also taking some other courses that seem to have nothing to do with her major but that's how it seems to be for incoming freshmen. Get them acclimated to college life before you stick it to them in the classroom.
She called me every day this week to give me an update on her campus experience. The food in the cafeteria is terrible; there are parties EVERY night; she needs a computer; she hates walking everywhere and her room mate loves watching The History Channel.
Although she would never admit to being homesick, today's she's back home with her dirty laundry. (Since she has no car, I had to drive up to get her).
It looks like we both survived the first week.
On Monday, my daughter began her freshman year at North Carolina A&T in Greensboro. She's an "Aggie"---whatever that is. Her first class on Monday was at 8am---Math---a subject she not only hates but hasn't done well in since elementary school. She says it's remedial math so all of the students are on the same level---which she finds refreshing. But she did tell me she's starting out with a 4.0 average so I should be proud.
She's also taking some other courses that seem to have nothing to do with her major but that's how it seems to be for incoming freshmen. Get them acclimated to college life before you stick it to them in the classroom.
She called me every day this week to give me an update on her campus experience. The food in the cafeteria is terrible; there are parties EVERY night; she needs a computer; she hates walking everywhere and her room mate loves watching The History Channel.
Although she would never admit to being homesick, today's she's back home with her dirty laundry. (Since she has no car, I had to drive up to get her).
It looks like we both survived the first week.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
If Your Child Isn't Talking by Age Two...
I just read an interesting report on children and speech. According to the study 80 percent of children with language delays at age 2 will catch up by age 7. But this also means that for one in five late-talking toddlers, language delays will persist.
By age 2, children should have a vocabulary of about 50 words and be starting to combine those words in two- or three-word sentences.
The researchers found that boys are three times as likely as girls to be late-talking toddlers. Yet when the children were 7 years of age, no differences were found between girls and boys.
For children who are still late talkers in school, the researchers say it is very important to provide early intervention and enrichment. Parents may even want to contact a speech pathologist if they have any concerns.
The data collected in the research also indicates that a mother’s education, income, parenting style and mental health does not predict when a child will start to talk. This seems to debunk the widely held belief that parents or a poor home environment are to blame for a late-talking toddler.
Based on this information, it appears my 21-month-old grandson is way ahead of the curve. He has been speaking for at least four months. As a matter this morning, when he was on the potty, he said something I had never heard him say before. He called to me and when I went to see what he wanted, he said, “Never mind.”
He has it honest though. After all, his baby boomer diva grandmother is a journalist who loves to use words.
By age 2, children should have a vocabulary of about 50 words and be starting to combine those words in two- or three-word sentences.
The researchers found that boys are three times as likely as girls to be late-talking toddlers. Yet when the children were 7 years of age, no differences were found between girls and boys.
For children who are still late talkers in school, the researchers say it is very important to provide early intervention and enrichment. Parents may even want to contact a speech pathologist if they have any concerns.
The data collected in the research also indicates that a mother’s education, income, parenting style and mental health does not predict when a child will start to talk. This seems to debunk the widely held belief that parents or a poor home environment are to blame for a late-talking toddler.
Based on this information, it appears my 21-month-old grandson is way ahead of the curve. He has been speaking for at least four months. As a matter this morning, when he was on the potty, he said something I had never heard him say before. He called to me and when I went to see what he wanted, he said, “Never mind.”
He has it honest though. After all, his baby boomer diva grandmother is a journalist who loves to use words.
Monday, August 18, 2008
When Grandma Becomes Ma
I have joined the ranks of a growing number of baby boomers who have taken on the task of raising their grandchildren.
No, I'm not doing it because I want to. I'm doing it because it's necessary. I'm doing it because I want my daughter and her son to have a chance to beat the odds and the stereotypes placed on them by the "do-gooders" of our society.
My daughter started college this week in another part of the state. She had the option of taking her soon-to-be-two-year-old with her or leaving him here with me. I chose option B. My daughter is still trying to get her own life together and having her son with her would only get in her way from accomplishing her goals.
The way I see it, my role of being a grandparent is more important than ever. My grandson is among a number of children being raised in single-parent households and as a young black male, the odds are already stacked against him before he can talk.
Being a good grandparent today requires all the wisdom, understanding, patience and love I've acquired throughout my lifetime.
It means grandma wears another hat: "MA"
No, I'm not doing it because I want to. I'm doing it because it's necessary. I'm doing it because I want my daughter and her son to have a chance to beat the odds and the stereotypes placed on them by the "do-gooders" of our society.
My daughter started college this week in another part of the state. She had the option of taking her soon-to-be-two-year-old with her or leaving him here with me. I chose option B. My daughter is still trying to get her own life together and having her son with her would only get in her way from accomplishing her goals.
The way I see it, my role of being a grandparent is more important than ever. My grandson is among a number of children being raised in single-parent households and as a young black male, the odds are already stacked against him before he can talk.
Being a good grandparent today requires all the wisdom, understanding, patience and love I've acquired throughout my lifetime.
It means grandma wears another hat: "MA"
Saturday, August 16, 2008
What Position Do You Play in Your Child's Life?
This week, many baby boomer parents, like me, have been going through the experience of sending their children off to college for the first time. We are becoming something called “empty nesters.”
I would like to say helping my daughter enroll into college for the first time was a wonderful and teary-eyed experience---but it wasn’t. My greatest disappointment is the fact that she didn’t even consider my alma mater—but instead, chose to go to the school her father and my WAS-band went to. This decision was made in spite of the fact that he offered no support and no consultation. In hindsight, it’s probably better that he didn’t because that probably would’ve made matters worse!
Unlike my daughter, all I had to do when I arrived on the Ohio University campus was find my residence hall and move in. My daughter, on the other hand, was ill prepared for what was to come on her orientation day because she had not taken care of certain things in advance. She had no housing assignment and no class schedule. Her immunization records had not been turned in.
Some things have definitely changed. Unlike when I was in college, incoming freshman have to take an English and Math exam to see what level they’re on. I though that’s what the SAT’s were for. The good news is she scored a perfect 100 in English but failed miserably in Math. She may end up changing her major from Business to something else since she will be required to take a few Math courses along the way.
While my husband (her step dad) and I were waiting for her to finish with her testing, I stepped up to try to close some of the gaps by trying to get her a room assignment and request her immunization records from her doctor.
Then it hit me. The reason my daughter was so laxidasical with this process is because she had been so accustomed to me doing everything for her. In the football game of life, I was her linebacker. I blocked for her time after time when she was faced with challenges. As her quarterback as I called plays for her to make sure her transitions were smooth. I would also tackle for her if someone was trying to keep her from excelling—especially her teachers.
I have become the type of baby boomer parent I have written about and been critical of. I made it too easy for my daughter to get through life up to this point.
After 12 hours of walking around on campus trying to handle things, once again, on her behalf, I have decided the buck has to stop here. It’s time she learned about struggles and heartaches, success and failures on her own—without my interference. I just hope and pray that I’ve taught her enough that she will stand on her own and rise to the challenge.
I would like to say helping my daughter enroll into college for the first time was a wonderful and teary-eyed experience---but it wasn’t. My greatest disappointment is the fact that she didn’t even consider my alma mater—but instead, chose to go to the school her father and my WAS-band went to. This decision was made in spite of the fact that he offered no support and no consultation. In hindsight, it’s probably better that he didn’t because that probably would’ve made matters worse!
Unlike my daughter, all I had to do when I arrived on the Ohio University campus was find my residence hall and move in. My daughter, on the other hand, was ill prepared for what was to come on her orientation day because she had not taken care of certain things in advance. She had no housing assignment and no class schedule. Her immunization records had not been turned in.
Some things have definitely changed. Unlike when I was in college, incoming freshman have to take an English and Math exam to see what level they’re on. I though that’s what the SAT’s were for. The good news is she scored a perfect 100 in English but failed miserably in Math. She may end up changing her major from Business to something else since she will be required to take a few Math courses along the way.
While my husband (her step dad) and I were waiting for her to finish with her testing, I stepped up to try to close some of the gaps by trying to get her a room assignment and request her immunization records from her doctor.
Then it hit me. The reason my daughter was so laxidasical with this process is because she had been so accustomed to me doing everything for her. In the football game of life, I was her linebacker. I blocked for her time after time when she was faced with challenges. As her quarterback as I called plays for her to make sure her transitions were smooth. I would also tackle for her if someone was trying to keep her from excelling—especially her teachers.
I have become the type of baby boomer parent I have written about and been critical of. I made it too easy for my daughter to get through life up to this point.
After 12 hours of walking around on campus trying to handle things, once again, on her behalf, I have decided the buck has to stop here. It’s time she learned about struggles and heartaches, success and failures on her own—without my interference. I just hope and pray that I’ve taught her enough that she will stand on her own and rise to the challenge.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Baby Boomer Worshipper Wants Money for His Pain
Fifty-seven-year-old Matt Lincoln is suing the church where he worshipped for having a Holy Spirit experience.
Lincoln says he was so consumed by the spirit of God that he fell and hit his head. Now he wants Lakewind Church in Knoxville, Tennessee to pay $2.5 million for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. He decided to sue the church directly after the church's insurance company denied his claim for medical bills,.
The baby boomer worshipper says he's had two surgeries since the June 2007 incident but claims he still feels pain in his back and legs.
He said he was asking God to have "a real experience" while praying.
Lincoln said he has fallen from the force of the spirit before but has always been caught by someone.
Lawyers for the church said other congregation members allege they saw him on the floor laughing after his fall. They said he failed to look out for his own safety.
Lincoln says he was so consumed by the spirit of God that he fell and hit his head. Now he wants Lakewind Church in Knoxville, Tennessee to pay $2.5 million for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. He decided to sue the church directly after the church's insurance company denied his claim for medical bills,.
The baby boomer worshipper says he's had two surgeries since the June 2007 incident but claims he still feels pain in his back and legs.
He said he was asking God to have "a real experience" while praying.
Lincoln said he has fallen from the force of the spirit before but has always been caught by someone.
Lawyers for the church said other congregation members allege they saw him on the floor laughing after his fall. They said he failed to look out for his own safety.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Working without Air Conditioning
What do you do when you are working in an environment with NO air conditioning?
I’m a work-at-home baby boomer mom. Last week, the air conditioner went on the blink. It just stopped working for no reason at all. At first it wasn’t so bad because the house was really nice and cold. It had to be because I’m a baby boomer mom in menopause and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Unfortunately, when the temperature continued to rise, the cool air started drifting away. Even my dear, sweet husband---who ALWAYS complains about how COLD it is in the house—was feeling the heat. I went outside to have a talk with the thing. I asked it did it not care that I was a woman in menopause and I could flip out at any moment and throw it down the embankment next to my home. I could also go on a rampage in my neighborhood forcing my unsuspecting neighbors to call 9-1-1 to have me committed.
But during these hot times, I must keep a cool head so here are some of my tips to share on how to keep working without air conditioning:
1) Reduce heat gain by closing your drapes and window blinds during the daylight hours.
2) Use portable fans or ceiling fans and the "Fan Only" setting on your heating system's thermostat to keep the air moving. By doing so, you will feel comfortable in a room that is 2 or 3 degrees warmer than a still room. If your home has a whole-house fan, turn it on to extract warm air.
3) Use heat and electricity sparingly in your home during the day. Cook outside if possible. Dry clothes outside on the line, and run a fan or vent while showering. Keep lights turned off in rooms you aren't using.
4) Once the sun goes down, open all windows to let in the cool air. Certain rooms will be cooler due to airflow and insulation, and these are the best rooms to sleep in.
5) Don’t drink alcohol or eat spicy foods. Both are bound to make you feel hotter than you already are.
6) Take a long, cool bath or shower. Also, use cool washcloths and put on skin moisturizers to keep your body feeling rejuvenated.
7) Stay Hydrated. Keep your body well hydrated. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink water and other fluids to keep your body well hydrated to replace fluids as your body perspires. Try drinking beverages with electrolytes and avoid those with tons of sugar.
8) Work in the nude. This tip might be a little extreme for some but if you’re home alone all day, why not?
Living without air conditioning has shown me how spoiled we can be. Air conditioning is a luxury---not a necessity. Maybe it’s just better to grin and bear it.
I’m a work-at-home baby boomer mom. Last week, the air conditioner went on the blink. It just stopped working for no reason at all. At first it wasn’t so bad because the house was really nice and cold. It had to be because I’m a baby boomer mom in menopause and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Unfortunately, when the temperature continued to rise, the cool air started drifting away. Even my dear, sweet husband---who ALWAYS complains about how COLD it is in the house—was feeling the heat. I went outside to have a talk with the thing. I asked it did it not care that I was a woman in menopause and I could flip out at any moment and throw it down the embankment next to my home. I could also go on a rampage in my neighborhood forcing my unsuspecting neighbors to call 9-1-1 to have me committed.
But during these hot times, I must keep a cool head so here are some of my tips to share on how to keep working without air conditioning:
1) Reduce heat gain by closing your drapes and window blinds during the daylight hours.
2) Use portable fans or ceiling fans and the "Fan Only" setting on your heating system's thermostat to keep the air moving. By doing so, you will feel comfortable in a room that is 2 or 3 degrees warmer than a still room. If your home has a whole-house fan, turn it on to extract warm air.
3) Use heat and electricity sparingly in your home during the day. Cook outside if possible. Dry clothes outside on the line, and run a fan or vent while showering. Keep lights turned off in rooms you aren't using.
4) Once the sun goes down, open all windows to let in the cool air. Certain rooms will be cooler due to airflow and insulation, and these are the best rooms to sleep in.
5) Don’t drink alcohol or eat spicy foods. Both are bound to make you feel hotter than you already are.
6) Take a long, cool bath or shower. Also, use cool washcloths and put on skin moisturizers to keep your body feeling rejuvenated.
7) Stay Hydrated. Keep your body well hydrated. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink water and other fluids to keep your body well hydrated to replace fluids as your body perspires. Try drinking beverages with electrolytes and avoid those with tons of sugar.
8) Work in the nude. This tip might be a little extreme for some but if you’re home alone all day, why not?
Living without air conditioning has shown me how spoiled we can be. Air conditioning is a luxury---not a necessity. Maybe it’s just better to grin and bear it.
Monday, July 28, 2008
A Twist of Fate
My mama always used to say when you do bad things to people it comes back to you.
That may be the explanation for syndicated columnist and former "Crossfire" host Robert Novak, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Novak issued a statement today saying the tumor was found Sunday after he had been rushed to Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital from Cape Cod, where he was visiting his daughter.
You remember him. He was the first to publicly reveal the name of CIA operative Valerie Plame.
And just last week, The 77-year-old post baby boomer was given a $50 citation after he struck a homeless man with his black Corvette in Washington. Novak kept going until he was stopped by a bicyclist. The fact that he kept going should've landed him in jail but it didn't.
The Chicago Sun-Times columnist also said in his statement that he is suspending his journalistic work for an indefinite, "but God willing, not too lengthy period"
Now is as good a time as any for Mr. Novak to ask for forgiveness, don't you think?
That may be the explanation for syndicated columnist and former "Crossfire" host Robert Novak, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Novak issued a statement today saying the tumor was found Sunday after he had been rushed to Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital from Cape Cod, where he was visiting his daughter.
You remember him. He was the first to publicly reveal the name of CIA operative Valerie Plame.
And just last week, The 77-year-old post baby boomer was given a $50 citation after he struck a homeless man with his black Corvette in Washington. Novak kept going until he was stopped by a bicyclist. The fact that he kept going should've landed him in jail but it didn't.
The Chicago Sun-Times columnist also said in his statement that he is suspending his journalistic work for an indefinite, "but God willing, not too lengthy period"
Now is as good a time as any for Mr. Novak to ask for forgiveness, don't you think?
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Share Your Emergency Room Experience
Yesterday, my daughter and I finally decided it was time to go to the hospital because our conditions weren't getting any better. We ended up in the Emergency Room at Duke Medical Center. I brought excerpts from my upcoming book, my cell phone and some writing materials to keep me occupied for what was sure to be a LONG wait.
I've blogged about going to Duke's ER before. Going there has never been pleasant. I always get the feeling there are never enough people on staff to handle the onslaught of people who need their care. Yesterday, one lady was complaining that she had been waiting for four hours and still hadn't been seen. Another woman claimed she had once come to the ER and waited 14 1/2 hours!
Maybe we looked really sick or the staff recognized me from previous visits because we were in an out of the ER in less than four hours---and on top of that---everyone was exceptionally nice and attentive. I'll be the first to tell you that has never been my experience in the past (11/23/07).
The attending nurse even commented on how some people had to wait up to eight hours just the day before so, in spite of the fact, that the ER was busy on the day we came, we got lucky this particular time.
So what has you ER experience been like? What do you think the overall problems ER staff members are faced with? How can they improve?
I've blogged about going to Duke's ER before. Going there has never been pleasant. I always get the feeling there are never enough people on staff to handle the onslaught of people who need their care. Yesterday, one lady was complaining that she had been waiting for four hours and still hadn't been seen. Another woman claimed she had once come to the ER and waited 14 1/2 hours!
Maybe we looked really sick or the staff recognized me from previous visits because we were in an out of the ER in less than four hours---and on top of that---everyone was exceptionally nice and attentive. I'll be the first to tell you that has never been my experience in the past (11/23/07).
The attending nurse even commented on how some people had to wait up to eight hours just the day before so, in spite of the fact, that the ER was busy on the day we came, we got lucky this particular time.
So what has you ER experience been like? What do you think the overall problems ER staff members are faced with? How can they improve?
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Men Do Suffer Through Menopause and Sometimes It's Funny
I'm trying to understand what the hoopla is over a so-called joke comedian Bernie Mac made about menopause during a fundraiser last week for democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.
Many of the media headlines read: The star of "The Bernie Mac Show" joked about menopause, sexual infidelity and promiscuity, and used occasional crude language.
His exact comment was: “I can’t take it. My house is so doggone cold all the time.” Men, like Mac, do suffer through menopause and sometimes they just have to laugh at it or they'll end up in divorce court.
So let's get real. What man in America doesn't have something to say about his wife in menopause? It's either too cold in the house, or she's acting like a B**** or if he chooses to ignore it, it might mean he has another chick on the side.
Furthermore, sexual infidelity and promiscuity are REAL ISSUES. Ask Lynne Spears mother whose 16-year-old daughter Jamie Lynn recently had a baby out of wedlock. Or what about CBS News Chief Foreign Affairs correspondent Lara Logan, who cheated on her husband WITH TWO men (one married) while on assignment in the Middle East.
Granted, Bernie Mac is NOT one of my favorite comedians. He is crass and vulgar at times. Obama's people should've known that in advance and asked him to tone it down or not had him perform at all.
Once again, the media is grasping at straws to make a mountain out of a mohill. Let's stand up for the purity of America.
My mother used to say "the pot can't call the kettle black if they're on the same stove!"
Many of the media headlines read: The star of "The Bernie Mac Show" joked about menopause, sexual infidelity and promiscuity, and used occasional crude language.
His exact comment was: “I can’t take it. My house is so doggone cold all the time.” Men, like Mac, do suffer through menopause and sometimes they just have to laugh at it or they'll end up in divorce court.
So let's get real. What man in America doesn't have something to say about his wife in menopause? It's either too cold in the house, or she's acting like a B**** or if he chooses to ignore it, it might mean he has another chick on the side.
Furthermore, sexual infidelity and promiscuity are REAL ISSUES. Ask Lynne Spears mother whose 16-year-old daughter Jamie Lynn recently had a baby out of wedlock. Or what about CBS News Chief Foreign Affairs correspondent Lara Logan, who cheated on her husband WITH TWO men (one married) while on assignment in the Middle East.
Granted, Bernie Mac is NOT one of my favorite comedians. He is crass and vulgar at times. Obama's people should've known that in advance and asked him to tone it down or not had him perform at all.
Once again, the media is grasping at straws to make a mountain out of a mohill. Let's stand up for the purity of America.
My mother used to say "the pot can't call the kettle black if they're on the same stove!"
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Death Brings Back Memories
I learned yesterday that a woman who served as my high school Forensics Speech Coach my senior year passed away. My first reaction was shock because she wasn't that old--only 59--which means she was barely out of college when she began teaching at my high school.
Then I started thinking about how she treated me at McKinley. She wasn't very nice to me and even though I was a state and national champion, she made it obvious that she preferred another student over me. If it hadn't been for her assistant (Ms. Harriet Weaver), I would've quit the team and gave up any opportunity to receive scholarship money to continue on the Forensics Team in college.
Now, this is where I could throw out the race card and say she was prejudiced. I don't know that for sure but I can tell you I made no effort to contact her over the years to tell her of my progress in life.
I do believe it is wrong to speak ill of the dead so all I have to say is "may she rest in peace somewhere."
Then I started thinking about how she treated me at McKinley. She wasn't very nice to me and even though I was a state and national champion, she made it obvious that she preferred another student over me. If it hadn't been for her assistant (Ms. Harriet Weaver), I would've quit the team and gave up any opportunity to receive scholarship money to continue on the Forensics Team in college.
Now, this is where I could throw out the race card and say she was prejudiced. I don't know that for sure but I can tell you I made no effort to contact her over the years to tell her of my progress in life.
I do believe it is wrong to speak ill of the dead so all I have to say is "may she rest in peace somewhere."
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Baby Boomer Jesse Drama
There’s an old saying in the black community: God looks after babies and fools. Well, we know Jesse Jackson is NOT a baby……
I, just like the majority of black America, am stunned over the comments the reverend made about democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama during a conversation with a Fox & Friends guest before a live interview Sunday from Chicago. Thinking his mic was turned off, Rev Jackson whispered to a fellow panelist , "See, Barack been talking down to black people on this faith based ... I want cut his nuts off ... Barack ... he's talking down to black people."
Now Jackson claims he was reacting to the fact that he felt Obama's speeches "can come off as speaking down to black people" and that there were other important issues to be addressed in the black community, such as unemployment, the mortgage crisis and the number of blacks in prison.
Irregardless of what he was reacting to, Jackson ought to know better. First of all, he should’ve been smart enough to know anything you say can and will be used against you in front of a mic and in the media’s presence. Secondly, Jackson should be one of the last people to criticize anybody on the issues of faith and morality. Isn’t he the aging baby boomer who had an affair with a woman 20 years younger and fathered a child with her while married?
Now, to Jackson’s credit, he did issue an apology right away---even before the news media got a chance to blast it. He issued this statement:
"My appeal was for the moral content of his message to not only deal with the personal and moral responsibility of black males, but to deal with the collective moral responsibility of government and the public policy..."
There’s another saying that goes: Open mouth, insert foot---but in this case---how about a Choc Full of NUTS!
I, just like the majority of black America, am stunned over the comments the reverend made about democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama during a conversation with a Fox & Friends guest before a live interview Sunday from Chicago. Thinking his mic was turned off, Rev Jackson whispered to a fellow panelist , "See, Barack been talking down to black people on this faith based ... I want cut his nuts off ... Barack ... he's talking down to black people."
Now Jackson claims he was reacting to the fact that he felt Obama's speeches "can come off as speaking down to black people" and that there were other important issues to be addressed in the black community, such as unemployment, the mortgage crisis and the number of blacks in prison.
Irregardless of what he was reacting to, Jackson ought to know better. First of all, he should’ve been smart enough to know anything you say can and will be used against you in front of a mic and in the media’s presence. Secondly, Jackson should be one of the last people to criticize anybody on the issues of faith and morality. Isn’t he the aging baby boomer who had an affair with a woman 20 years younger and fathered a child with her while married?
Now, to Jackson’s credit, he did issue an apology right away---even before the news media got a chance to blast it. He issued this statement:
"My appeal was for the moral content of his message to not only deal with the personal and moral responsibility of black males, but to deal with the collective moral responsibility of government and the public policy..."
There’s another saying that goes: Open mouth, insert foot---but in this case---how about a Choc Full of NUTS!
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Where do people like Jesse Helms go when they die?
I'm a baby boomer woman who believes in God. I believe in Heaven and hell. I believe in the Ten Commandments---one being “Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself.” Now I’ll be the first to admit that’s not always easy to do because there are some people who do everything in their power to get on my last nerve. But then I think they probably don’t know any better so I just forgive them and move on.
So here we have former North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms who died on July 4 at the ripe old age of 86. He spent his entire political career as a hate monger and he was never ashamed or apologetic about it. He was a master at creating fear in the hearts and minds of white, rural North Carolinians by pointing out the fact that if he weren’t in Congress to fight for their “white rights” black people would take over and take away everything they rightfully owned.
Many of the people he catered to were white baby boomers and seniors.
Today, as I watched a portion of his funeral on TV, I heard the minister called him a good, decent man who loved God and loved the people he served for thirty years. But what about the people he didn’t love?
Does loving God—but hating minorities—give him a free pass into Heaven? My pastor always says “How can you love a God whom you never see and despise your fellow man here on earth?” That’s what Jesse did all of his life.
And no, he didn’t have a come to Jesus moment right before his death---where he apologized for any past sins he may have committed. He didn’t come out and issue a statement saying he loved everybody and was just playing the political game of the times.
So tell me, where do people like Jesse go when they die? Does he think he’ll enter a segregated Heaven? Oh, and wouldn’t it be something if God didn’t look anything like some churches paint Him out to be?
So here we have former North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms who died on July 4 at the ripe old age of 86. He spent his entire political career as a hate monger and he was never ashamed or apologetic about it. He was a master at creating fear in the hearts and minds of white, rural North Carolinians by pointing out the fact that if he weren’t in Congress to fight for their “white rights” black people would take over and take away everything they rightfully owned.
Many of the people he catered to were white baby boomers and seniors.
Today, as I watched a portion of his funeral on TV, I heard the minister called him a good, decent man who loved God and loved the people he served for thirty years. But what about the people he didn’t love?
Does loving God—but hating minorities—give him a free pass into Heaven? My pastor always says “How can you love a God whom you never see and despise your fellow man here on earth?” That’s what Jesse did all of his life.
And no, he didn’t have a come to Jesus moment right before his death---where he apologized for any past sins he may have committed. He didn’t come out and issue a statement saying he loved everybody and was just playing the political game of the times.
So tell me, where do people like Jesse go when they die? Does he think he’ll enter a segregated Heaven? Oh, and wouldn’t it be something if God didn’t look anything like some churches paint Him out to be?
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
A Black Baby Boomer with No Rhythm
Despite popular belief, not every black person has rhythm. Today I discovered that despite the fact that I USED to be a "shake your booty" cheerleader and dancer, I have lost some of my stride now that I'm older.
I went to my first Step Class at the gym where I work out. I set up my step in the back of the room so I wouldn't be noticed just in case I couldn't handle the routine. But when you have big mirrors plastered everywhere, there's no getting around not being noticed. So there I was trying to keep step to the music without looking like a complete idiot!
Now, this story wouldn't be so bad if all of the other class members were young twenty and thirty-something babes, but everyone in the group was a baby boomer. Even the men were on beat with the step!
I couldn't get mad---but I will get even. I'll be taking that class until I get that pep back in my step and make my race proud! :) Beverly Mahone---also known as the Baby Boomer Diva---never gives up that easily.
I went to my first Step Class at the gym where I work out. I set up my step in the back of the room so I wouldn't be noticed just in case I couldn't handle the routine. But when you have big mirrors plastered everywhere, there's no getting around not being noticed. So there I was trying to keep step to the music without looking like a complete idiot!
Now, this story wouldn't be so bad if all of the other class members were young twenty and thirty-something babes, but everyone in the group was a baby boomer. Even the men were on beat with the step!
I couldn't get mad---but I will get even. I'll be taking that class until I get that pep back in my step and make my race proud! :) Beverly Mahone---also known as the Baby Boomer Diva---never gives up that easily.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Are You a Kept Woman?
You see, there were a few times when I thought I would lose my mind,
But GOD kept me sane. (Isa. 26:3)
There were times when I thought I could go no longer,
But the LORD kept me moving. (Gen 28:15)
At times, I've wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong,
But the LORD kept my mouth shut. (Psa. 13)
Sometimes, I think the money just isn't enough,
But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc.., (Matt. 6:25 -34)
When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong! (I Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30)
I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you hear me!
I'm blessed to be "kept ."
I'm Kept by the Love and Grace of God!
But GOD kept me sane. (Isa. 26:3)
There were times when I thought I could go no longer,
But the LORD kept me moving. (Gen 28:15)
At times, I've wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong,
But the LORD kept my mouth shut. (Psa. 13)
Sometimes, I think the money just isn't enough,
But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc.., (Matt. 6:25 -34)
When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong! (I Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30)
I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you hear me!
I'm blessed to be "kept ."
I'm Kept by the Love and Grace of God!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Do Not Try This on the Road
"Expect the best but be prepared for the worst." It's a statement my parents reminded me to be conscious of as I moved into adulthood. So you would think at 51-years-old that message would've sunk in by now.
OK, here's the story: I knew I had to co-host a show on WBO Radio on Wednesday. At the last minute, my daughter decided to schedule an interview 20 miles away. I had the option of letting her drive herself or taking her in hopes of making it back home in time for the show. I chose option B because I just haven't gotten to the point where I trust my 18-year-old enough to drive long distances---especially out of town and to a location she had to mapquest.
When she got to the interview, we learned it would take about 90 minutes--which meant I would have to conduct the interview with the guest over my cell phone. No problem. I had my cell phone. Oh, but there was one problem. The cell phone had one cell left and as soon as I got on the call, I kept getting signals that the battery was dying. And then it DIED. I left interview guest Dr. Sally Witt hanging in the balance. Fortunately, the primary host, Anna Campbell of WBO, was there to pick up where I left off.
LESSONS I LEARNED:
1) Learn to be more trusting of my teenage daughter.
2) Don't drive your 18-year-old to a job interview--let her figure out her own directions.
3) Hot flashes & heat DON'T mix!
4) Keep my cell phone charged at all times
5) Keep a charger in the car that WORKS!
OK, here's the story: I knew I had to co-host a show on WBO Radio on Wednesday. At the last minute, my daughter decided to schedule an interview 20 miles away. I had the option of letting her drive herself or taking her in hopes of making it back home in time for the show. I chose option B because I just haven't gotten to the point where I trust my 18-year-old enough to drive long distances---especially out of town and to a location she had to mapquest.
When she got to the interview, we learned it would take about 90 minutes--which meant I would have to conduct the interview with the guest over my cell phone. No problem. I had my cell phone. Oh, but there was one problem. The cell phone had one cell left and as soon as I got on the call, I kept getting signals that the battery was dying. And then it DIED. I left interview guest Dr. Sally Witt hanging in the balance. Fortunately, the primary host, Anna Campbell of WBO, was there to pick up where I left off.
LESSONS I LEARNED:
1) Learn to be more trusting of my teenage daughter.
2) Don't drive your 18-year-old to a job interview--let her figure out her own directions.
3) Hot flashes & heat DON'T mix!
4) Keep my cell phone charged at all times
5) Keep a charger in the car that WORKS!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
A Baby Boomer Birthday: Another Day Older....
Back in 1955, Tennessee Ernie Ford sang a song that would go on to be a huge hit for him. It was called Sixteen Tons.
"....Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store..."
As I read the words to the song, I couldn't help thinking how some things just NEVER seem to change. If you're a baby boomer sharing a birthday with me today, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. If you're a baby boomer deeper in debt, welcome to the club---there's plenty of us out here!
According to an AARP Sponsored study:
* The rate of bankruptcy filings among those ages 65 and older has more than doubled since 1991.
* Americans age 55 or older have experienced the sharpest increase in bankruptcy filings.
* Americans age 34 or younger have experienced the greatest decrease in bankruptcy filings.
"....Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store..."
As I read the words to the song, I couldn't help thinking how some things just NEVER seem to change. If you're a baby boomer sharing a birthday with me today, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. If you're a baby boomer deeper in debt, welcome to the club---there's plenty of us out here!
According to an AARP Sponsored study:
* The rate of bankruptcy filings among those ages 65 and older has more than doubled since 1991.
* Americans age 55 or older have experienced the sharpest increase in bankruptcy filings.
* Americans age 34 or younger have experienced the greatest decrease in bankruptcy filings.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Black Actresses in Hollywood: Lethal Combination
I read an interesting post from actress Terri Vaughn last week, which prompted this post. She wrote about the struggles of black women in Hollywood. It's a conversation I had recently with actress Bern Nadette Stanis (better known as Thelma from Good Times).
Just like Bern Nadette said, Terri echoes the notion Hollywood executives don't have a clue about what Black America wants to see on the big screen. They think giving us Halle Berry or a look-a-like will make us happy. Why? Because she's what they consider an "acceptable black woman." She's light enough to appeal to white America--but the bottom line is she's still considered black.
It's tough being a black female actress in Hollywood---and the older you get, the worse it gets. Being a white, female baby boomer in Hollywood has its challenges also.
By the way, anybody seen Cicely Tyson or Sheryl Lee Ralph lately?
I invite you to read the entire Terry Vaughn interview.
Just like Bern Nadette said, Terri echoes the notion Hollywood executives don't have a clue about what Black America wants to see on the big screen. They think giving us Halle Berry or a look-a-like will make us happy. Why? Because she's what they consider an "acceptable black woman." She's light enough to appeal to white America--but the bottom line is she's still considered black.
It's tough being a black female actress in Hollywood---and the older you get, the worse it gets. Being a white, female baby boomer in Hollywood has its challenges also.
By the way, anybody seen Cicely Tyson or Sheryl Lee Ralph lately?
I invite you to read the entire Terry Vaughn interview.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Baby Boomer Journalist is Dead
Tim Russert, Washington Bureau Chief for NBC News and host of Meet the Press, died today of coronary embolism at the age of 58, NBC has confirmed.
He was apparently at work when it happened. According to Tom Brokow, Russert and his family had just returned from a vacation in Italy where they were celebrating the graduation of their son.
Not to make light of his death, but as a fellow journalist I can tell you the newsroom is a VERY STRESSFUL place. It's a wonder more journalists don't succumb as a result of the daily grind.
Russert's untimely death hits home because he wasn't that old. He was a baby boomer, like me, in the prime of his life. I'll never forget the Meet the Press episode where he pointed out the "lie" Hillary Clinton told about her 1996 trip to Bosnia. Clinton had said, on multiple occasions, that her plane had to make a "corkscrew" landing due to danger and that she had to run off the plane because there could be sniper fire. These statements were false, and Russert produced video of Clinton repeating these statements four different times.
Unlike many journalists who are only out to make a name for themselves, I felt Russert was trying to make a difference and was fair-minded. These days journalists like that are hard to find. He will be missed by those of us who appreciate good, quality journalism.
He was apparently at work when it happened. According to Tom Brokow, Russert and his family had just returned from a vacation in Italy where they were celebrating the graduation of their son.
Not to make light of his death, but as a fellow journalist I can tell you the newsroom is a VERY STRESSFUL place. It's a wonder more journalists don't succumb as a result of the daily grind.
Russert's untimely death hits home because he wasn't that old. He was a baby boomer, like me, in the prime of his life. I'll never forget the Meet the Press episode where he pointed out the "lie" Hillary Clinton told about her 1996 trip to Bosnia. Clinton had said, on multiple occasions, that her plane had to make a "corkscrew" landing due to danger and that she had to run off the plane because there could be sniper fire. These statements were false, and Russert produced video of Clinton repeating these statements four different times.
Unlike many journalists who are only out to make a name for themselves, I felt Russert was trying to make a difference and was fair-minded. These days journalists like that are hard to find. He will be missed by those of us who appreciate good, quality journalism.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Barack and Michelle Bumpin' Fists--So What!
Once again, the media is grasping at straws to come up with a story on Barack Obama. Why is the bumping of fists between the democratic presidential nominee and his baby boomer diva wife a BIG DEAL?
It says two things: Some journalists don’t seem to have a clue as to what real news is anymore. It also points out the lack of experience many reporters have when it comes to reporting. Instead of focusing on the admiration Michelle Obama was showing for her husband, they chose to focus on bumpin’ fists between the two as something mysterious and a possible code for something else. WHATEVER! Get a clue---take a racial interpretive language class. And while you’re at it, attend a black church on occasion to get a sense of what really goes on there.
#2: Newsrooms in America lack some serious diversity---especially when it comes to management. I know this from first hand experience because I never worked in a newsroom that had an African-American News Director.
If Michelle clicks her heels three times the next time we see her on stage, will this be interpreted as her desire to go to Kansas or is that a hint that she’d like to be “knockin’ boots” with her husband?
It says two things: Some journalists don’t seem to have a clue as to what real news is anymore. It also points out the lack of experience many reporters have when it comes to reporting. Instead of focusing on the admiration Michelle Obama was showing for her husband, they chose to focus on bumpin’ fists between the two as something mysterious and a possible code for something else. WHATEVER! Get a clue---take a racial interpretive language class. And while you’re at it, attend a black church on occasion to get a sense of what really goes on there.
#2: Newsrooms in America lack some serious diversity---especially when it comes to management. I know this from first hand experience because I never worked in a newsroom that had an African-American News Director.
If Michelle clicks her heels three times the next time we see her on stage, will this be interpreted as her desire to go to Kansas or is that a hint that she’d like to be “knockin’ boots” with her husband?
Sunday, June 01, 2008
The Legacy of Hillary Rodham Clinton
When the Democratic Presidential Primary campaign began more than a year ago, I was excited over the idea that America had a chance to make history. In spite of the number of candidates in the race, I was certain Hillary Clinton would be in the running. In spite of the rumors that circulated about her as First Lady, I was still rooting for her as a fellow baby boomer woman. I have shown her no ill will.
BUT---
With the help of the media, Senator Clinton has turned into a ruthless, vindictive, politician. Riding on her husband’s coat tails, she attempted to pimp the Black vote. When that didn’t work, she turned her backs on them and went for the whites with no education. (That’s how she referred to the reason why she won in West Virginia and Kentucky)
She has been a chameleon throughout this campaign---changing her campaign strategy to whatever will win her votes. And what is alarming even more so is the way some fellow baby boomer women are behaving about this campaign. I have read nasty posts from women who threaten to vote for the Republican or not vote at all if Hillary doesn’t win the nomination.
Yes, I do believe she has been unfairly depicted on occasion. There have been some awful things said about her by the male press but when she turns around and gives them more ammunition to work with, what is one to think? To bring up the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy as a reason to stay in the race is ludicrous and suspicious.
So what will be the legacy of Hillary Rodham Clinton after this campaign is over. I’m sure her supporters will say she was a fighter right down until the very end. That may be true but that fighting spirit has done more in the past several months to destroy the image of women and the Democratic Party than the Republicans could ever do. I’m sure Rush Limbaugh, Pat Robertson and the good old boys are thanking her for her tenacity.
But the bigger picture here is: What does this really say about the baby boomer generation? You don’t see young people (under 35) running around acting as hate mongers over a presidential primary. Yes, baby boomers are the generation who took a stand on many causes like civil and women’s rights, and the war in Vietnam----but what are we now?
Take a look in the mirror and you might see YOUR PARENTS.
BUT---
With the help of the media, Senator Clinton has turned into a ruthless, vindictive, politician. Riding on her husband’s coat tails, she attempted to pimp the Black vote. When that didn’t work, she turned her backs on them and went for the whites with no education. (That’s how she referred to the reason why she won in West Virginia and Kentucky)
She has been a chameleon throughout this campaign---changing her campaign strategy to whatever will win her votes. And what is alarming even more so is the way some fellow baby boomer women are behaving about this campaign. I have read nasty posts from women who threaten to vote for the Republican or not vote at all if Hillary doesn’t win the nomination.
Yes, I do believe she has been unfairly depicted on occasion. There have been some awful things said about her by the male press but when she turns around and gives them more ammunition to work with, what is one to think? To bring up the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy as a reason to stay in the race is ludicrous and suspicious.
So what will be the legacy of Hillary Rodham Clinton after this campaign is over. I’m sure her supporters will say she was a fighter right down until the very end. That may be true but that fighting spirit has done more in the past several months to destroy the image of women and the Democratic Party than the Republicans could ever do. I’m sure Rush Limbaugh, Pat Robertson and the good old boys are thanking her for her tenacity.
But the bigger picture here is: What does this really say about the baby boomer generation? You don’t see young people (under 35) running around acting as hate mongers over a presidential primary. Yes, baby boomers are the generation who took a stand on many causes like civil and women’s rights, and the war in Vietnam----but what are we now?
Take a look in the mirror and you might see YOUR PARENTS.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Sex and the City Review: "Idolizing Four Sluts"
I guess I should say right off the top that I didn't actually see the movie. But even if I wanted to, I couldn't have because all three shows were sold out last night. My husband and I went to see Iron Man with Robert Downey, Jr., Terrence Howard and Jeff Bridges. (If you want to read my review of THAT movie, go to Boomerworld.
I was never a fan of the HBO Series. I may have seen an episode or two but it didn't appeal to me. Maybe it was because I couldn't identify with who the characters were and what they were all about.
Anyway, as my husband and I were leaving our movie, we saw a line out the door for the next showing of Sex and The City. There were young girls standing anxiously to get inside the theater. (Yes, there were actually two young men in the line as well). What was surprising to me was the way they were dressed. Many of them wore sexy and revealing outfits with spiked heels. I thought that was rather odd but then I overheard a woman, about my age, walking in front of us commenting to her husband on the attire. She thought it was crazy that those young girls were so into the characters that they chose to dress like them. She said, "How sad that they would want to idolize four sluts."
I think I have to agree with that.
I was never a fan of the HBO Series. I may have seen an episode or two but it didn't appeal to me. Maybe it was because I couldn't identify with who the characters were and what they were all about.
Anyway, as my husband and I were leaving our movie, we saw a line out the door for the next showing of Sex and The City. There were young girls standing anxiously to get inside the theater. (Yes, there were actually two young men in the line as well). What was surprising to me was the way they were dressed. Many of them wore sexy and revealing outfits with spiked heels. I thought that was rather odd but then I overheard a woman, about my age, walking in front of us commenting to her husband on the attire. She thought it was crazy that those young girls were so into the characters that they chose to dress like them. She said, "How sad that they would want to idolize four sluts."
I think I have to agree with that.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
What's Menopause Got To Do With It?
I'm not 50... .
I'm 18 with 32 years old experience
I don't have hot flashes.....
I have short, private vacations in the tropics
I'm not overweight.....
I'm just big-boned
I may be a Boomer---but I'm certainly not your BABY
If I forgot what you said, could it be possible I wasn't listening?
If Viagra's all you've got---don't bother!
Beverly Mahone
I'm 18 with 32 years old experience
I don't have hot flashes.....
I have short, private vacations in the tropics
I'm not overweight.....
I'm just big-boned
I may be a Boomer---but I'm certainly not your BABY
If I forgot what you said, could it be possible I wasn't listening?
If Viagra's all you've got---don't bother!
Beverly Mahone
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Christian Women and Sex
I’m a Christian, a wife, mother, grandmother, baby boomer---and I enjoy sex! I can just hear someone reading this say “What?! Yes, I’m a baby boomer woman who enjoys intimacy and I’m not embarrassed to say so.
It’s not a topic I openly discuss because, quite frankly, my fellow, married baby boomer girlfriends aren’t interested in sharing details of what goes on in their bedrooms. And my girlfriends, who are single, don’t want me to know if they’re committing a sin. Of course, I would never provide explicit details of my love life but I have no problem letting anyone, who asks, know I love my husband in every possible way.
If you’re a baby boomer, Christian and married, I encourage you to read the Song of Solomon. I think this book of the Bible may have been a revelation by God of the way real love between a man and a woman should be and that sex in a marriage is to be celebrated.
If you’re a baby boomer, I also invite you to tune into my internet radio show on Monday, May 26 when I discuss Christian Women and Sex with other married women who share my sentiments. That’s on BlogTalk Radio at 12pm EST.
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine.” Song of Solomon 1:2
It’s not a topic I openly discuss because, quite frankly, my fellow, married baby boomer girlfriends aren’t interested in sharing details of what goes on in their bedrooms. And my girlfriends, who are single, don’t want me to know if they’re committing a sin. Of course, I would never provide explicit details of my love life but I have no problem letting anyone, who asks, know I love my husband in every possible way.
If you’re a baby boomer, Christian and married, I encourage you to read the Song of Solomon. I think this book of the Bible may have been a revelation by God of the way real love between a man and a woman should be and that sex in a marriage is to be celebrated.
If you’re a baby boomer, I also invite you to tune into my internet radio show on Monday, May 26 when I discuss Christian Women and Sex with other married women who share my sentiments. That’s on BlogTalk Radio at 12pm EST.
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine.” Song of Solomon 1:2
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Maxine is NOT a Baby Boomer Mom I Identify With
Every Mother’s Day someone is always sending me a card. This year I received several from girlfriends around the country.
One card stuck out. It was one of those “Maxine” cards. They’re a part of the Hallmark Shoebox Greeting Card collection. As I stared at the character on the front of the card I asked myself, “Why would someone think to send this to me?” Maybe she thought I had a “Maxine-like” personality or that I would just get a kick out of what the card had to say.
The Maxine cards were created 1986 by a man named John Wagner. The Hallmark artist said the crabby character was inspired by his mother, his maiden aunts and his grandmother.
Now that may have been OK 20 years ago, but things have changed since then. When a group of bloggers, which included myself, were invited to the Hallmark Headquarters last year to offer input, a few of us tried to tell them that Maxine needed to be updated. Many Baby Boomer women don't see themselves in that image. Don't they know 50 is the new 30? Maxine can still be sassy---but you could add some classy to that as well.
Let this blog serve as notice to my friends: Next Mother’s Day, send money instead and don’t worry about the card.
One card stuck out. It was one of those “Maxine” cards. They’re a part of the Hallmark Shoebox Greeting Card collection. As I stared at the character on the front of the card I asked myself, “Why would someone think to send this to me?” Maybe she thought I had a “Maxine-like” personality or that I would just get a kick out of what the card had to say.
The Maxine cards were created 1986 by a man named John Wagner. The Hallmark artist said the crabby character was inspired by his mother, his maiden aunts and his grandmother.
Now that may have been OK 20 years ago, but things have changed since then. When a group of bloggers, which included myself, were invited to the Hallmark Headquarters last year to offer input, a few of us tried to tell them that Maxine needed to be updated. Many Baby Boomer women don't see themselves in that image. Don't they know 50 is the new 30? Maxine can still be sassy---but you could add some classy to that as well.
Let this blog serve as notice to my friends: Next Mother’s Day, send money instead and don’t worry about the card.
Friday, May 09, 2008
Judy Davids: Rocker Mom & True Baby Boomer Diva
On March 7 of this year, Judy Davids became an official member of the Baby Boomer Diva Web of Fame. Why was she selected? Because she's a woman over 40, who's on the move and making a difference!
I first came in contact with Judy when she wrote to nominate herself for a Boomer Diva Award (given out during the First Annual Baby Boomer Girlfriend's Spring Break in Daytona Beach last month. She told me her story. She was 42 when she picked up a guitar for the first time and decided to take guitar lessons. From there, a rock band called The Mydols was formed. Don't you love love that name??? The group consists of four Midwestern housewives/mothers who are capturing the heart of young rockers around the country.
What has impressed me so much about Judy is her level of commitment and passion. She made 40 a turning point in her life and she's proving that you can make positive things happen in your life if you dare to dream. She has a book she's promoting: Rock Star Mommy: My Life as a Rocker Mom and it's one I endorse wholeheartedly!
Judy Davids is a Baby Boomer Diva in every sense of the word!
I first came in contact with Judy when she wrote to nominate herself for a Boomer Diva Award (given out during the First Annual Baby Boomer Girlfriend's Spring Break in Daytona Beach last month. She told me her story. She was 42 when she picked up a guitar for the first time and decided to take guitar lessons. From there, a rock band called The Mydols was formed. Don't you love love that name??? The group consists of four Midwestern housewives/mothers who are capturing the heart of young rockers around the country.
What has impressed me so much about Judy is her level of commitment and passion. She made 40 a turning point in her life and she's proving that you can make positive things happen in your life if you dare to dream. She has a book she's promoting: Rock Star Mommy: My Life as a Rocker Mom and it's one I endorse wholeheartedly!
Judy Davids is a Baby Boomer Diva in every sense of the word!
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Michelle Obama--A True Baby Boomer Diva
Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle Obama. Now for those of you who have been living in a cave over the past 15 months, Michelle is the wife of Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama.
Michelle came to Durham, NC to campaign for her husband. She was supposed to speak at 12:30pm but due to bad weather in the Midwest, she arrived and spoke more than two hours later. But her tardiness didn't seem to matter to the standing room only crowd. While waiting, we actually sat around and talked to each other---black, white, hispanic, young and old. It was a refreshing site to see. Not one hate monger in the crowd.
Michelle is even more impressive in person than she is on television. She is poised and assertive. She has a sense of humor and she can deliver a speech without NOTES. It's so obvious she and Barack have a REAL relationship and not something they have to make up for the cameras. She is also a beautiful example of what it's like to grow up in humble beginnings---unlike the way she and Barack have been depicted by some media as "elitists." She reminds me a lot of myself.
Following her speech I had a chance to actually meet her and gave her an autographed copy of my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age, along with a T-shirt donning the face of my grandson wearing an OBAMA hat.
It gives me great pleasure to welcome this dynamic baby boomer diva into the Baby Boomer Diva Web of Fame.
Michelle came to Durham, NC to campaign for her husband. She was supposed to speak at 12:30pm but due to bad weather in the Midwest, she arrived and spoke more than two hours later. But her tardiness didn't seem to matter to the standing room only crowd. While waiting, we actually sat around and talked to each other---black, white, hispanic, young and old. It was a refreshing site to see. Not one hate monger in the crowd.
Michelle is even more impressive in person than she is on television. She is poised and assertive. She has a sense of humor and she can deliver a speech without NOTES. It's so obvious she and Barack have a REAL relationship and not something they have to make up for the cameras. She is also a beautiful example of what it's like to grow up in humble beginnings---unlike the way she and Barack have been depicted by some media as "elitists." She reminds me a lot of myself.
Following her speech I had a chance to actually meet her and gave her an autographed copy of my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age, along with a T-shirt donning the face of my grandson wearing an OBAMA hat.
It gives me great pleasure to welcome this dynamic baby boomer diva into the Baby Boomer Diva Web of Fame.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Barbara Walters had an Affair
On Tuesday, May 5 Barbara Walters will tell Oprah and her audience all about her affair with former United States Senator Edward Brooke. She called him "exciting" and "brilliant."
For those of you who don't know, Brooke was a Black Republican from Massachusetts who took office in 1967. He was the first black man to be popularly elected to the Senate. According to the talk show queen, her affair with Brooke lasted for several years during the 1970's.
The sit-down with Oprah is part of the release of her memoir called "Audition," which covers her long career in television, as well as her off-camera life.
Is it me or don't you see the hypocrisy in this? I mean Barbara chastised Monica Lewinsky back in 1999 for her affair with former President Clinton when, in essence, they both did the same thing---they cheated with a married man.
I guess when you're pushing 80-years-old you may feel the need to come clean with the darker side of your life. But you know what, I have a feeling she isn't telling the REST of HER story.
I guess in my next book I'll share my affair with another public official from Massachusetts. But I think I'll give him the courtesy of being dead before I do.
For those of you who don't know, Brooke was a Black Republican from Massachusetts who took office in 1967. He was the first black man to be popularly elected to the Senate. According to the talk show queen, her affair with Brooke lasted for several years during the 1970's.
The sit-down with Oprah is part of the release of her memoir called "Audition," which covers her long career in television, as well as her off-camera life.
Is it me or don't you see the hypocrisy in this? I mean Barbara chastised Monica Lewinsky back in 1999 for her affair with former President Clinton when, in essence, they both did the same thing---they cheated with a married man.
I guess when you're pushing 80-years-old you may feel the need to come clean with the darker side of your life. But you know what, I have a feeling she isn't telling the REST of HER story.
I guess in my next book I'll share my affair with another public official from Massachusetts. But I think I'll give him the courtesy of being dead before I do.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Star Jones Getting a Divorce
For those of you who said it would NEVER last--you were right. Star Jones has filed for a divorce from her husband of three years, Al Reynolds.
In a statement to Entertainment Tonight, The baby boomer diva said, "Several years ago I made an error in judgment by inviting the media into the most intimate area of my life. A month ago I filed for divorce. The dissolution of a marriage is a difficult time in anyone's life that requires privacy with one's thoughts."
Is there anyone reading this who thought it would last? This brings me to a point. Women who reach middle age shouldn't be so eager to get married that they end up making the wrong choice. What's more important---your biological clock or your happily-ever-after?
Sadly, too many sisters feel the need to be married by a certain age and some of them are even pressured by family and friends to take that trip down the aisle---and I do mean "trip!"
You need to read chapter two of my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age. The chapter is titled, "Lordy, Lordy, Are There Any Good men Still Left Over 40" to gain some perspective on what to look for in a mate at middle age.
I found it interesting that Star was quoted as saying this in People Magazine shortly after she and Al married:
"Every single wedding fantasy I ever had was fulfilled, down to the most handsome groom in the history of the world."
What she failed to mention was a keyword called LOVE. And as my mama once told me, "It's better to be alone and happy than married and miserable!" It's some of the best advice she ever gave me.
In a statement to Entertainment Tonight, The baby boomer diva said, "Several years ago I made an error in judgment by inviting the media into the most intimate area of my life. A month ago I filed for divorce. The dissolution of a marriage is a difficult time in anyone's life that requires privacy with one's thoughts."
Is there anyone reading this who thought it would last? This brings me to a point. Women who reach middle age shouldn't be so eager to get married that they end up making the wrong choice. What's more important---your biological clock or your happily-ever-after?
Sadly, too many sisters feel the need to be married by a certain age and some of them are even pressured by family and friends to take that trip down the aisle---and I do mean "trip!"
You need to read chapter two of my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer's Journey Into Middle Age. The chapter is titled, "Lordy, Lordy, Are There Any Good men Still Left Over 40" to gain some perspective on what to look for in a mate at middle age.
I found it interesting that Star was quoted as saying this in People Magazine shortly after she and Al married:
"Every single wedding fantasy I ever had was fulfilled, down to the most handsome groom in the history of the world."
What she failed to mention was a keyword called LOVE. And as my mama once told me, "It's better to be alone and happy than married and miserable!" It's some of the best advice she ever gave me.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Baby Boomer Girlfriend's Spring Break
If you weren't there, no words will truly describe the emotional impact of attending the First Annual Girlfriend's Spring Break in Daytona Beach.
Let me just say this: My purpose was to Educate, Entertain and Empower women throughout the weekend. As opposed to me explaining it, why don't you read what one of the attendees had to say:
Hi Sisters!
I don't even know where to begin to describe this weekend to you. No words can explain what was experienced by each of us. From the moment that Beverly and I met at the airport until the tears and the final goodbyes this morning, the love for each other and the love of God permeated the atmosphere among the sisters.
I have no question in my mind that we are all truly Divinely Inspired, Vivacious, and Anointed. All of you who couldn't come were continually in thought and very much a part of us here.
I've been to many women's retreats in the past, but nothing that could ever rival this one. Each and every lady is beautiful in mind, body, and spirit. There was never an awkward moment when meeting anyone. It was more like a reunion of old friends. It was exciting as each woman appeared.
We laughed, cried, played, and prayed together. I enjoyed getting to talk with each one on a one-to-one basis. I felt a connection with each and every one of them.
Friday started with a briefing prior to leaving for the TV station. We loaded up on the van and headed for the station. If that driver only knew what precious cargo he had on that van! The taping went well. Beverly had put together a very distinguished panel of experts on women's issues. A few of us got to comment or ask questions. Bev was the consummate professional as she moderated the panel.
Saturday morning breakfast was fab! There weren't that many people here, so with all the options for seminars, we were spread a little thin, but the quality was certainly there. Rhea Becker, Debra Shively Welch, and Kathryn Little and I did a little Zumba workout outside, after which Growing Bolder interviewed us.
Bern Nadette Stanis came in a day late, because she had gotten food poisoning. She is a beautiful lady! She shared with us the importance of not wasting our precious time. She was definitely one of us and she had a great time at the P.J. party last night.
I can't wait for you to hear Jennifer Evans sing! Can that girl wail! She brought us to our feet and tears to our eyes. I hope that Bev got her on video, but if not...I did. When I get back home, I will download my video clips so that you can see them.
The dinner and pageant on Sat. night was so much fun! The comedian was hilarious. I laughed until my sides hurt and I thought the corners of my lips were going to split open. When Silky Waters took the stage, it was evident that this DIVA had stage experience. What a voice! I could have listened to her all night long. She is a character...and does this lady ever know how to dress!
The DIVA pageant was so fun! Each Diva strutted her stuff on the stage. Each with her own dignity, grace, and personality. It was informal and so much fun! I took pictures of each one as they took the stage.
A definite highlight of the event was the pajama party. I haven't had that much fun in I don't know when. Our inhibitions were left at the door and we danced our feet off. I'm telling you, these girls had some moves!
We found out it didn't take long to spend the night at the Hilton last night, because there wasn't much time between 2:30 am and 7:15 this morning.
Following breakfast on Sunday, we heard a stirring testimony from the very gorgeous and sweet Jo Kelly. What a sweetheart she is!
Jennifer graced us with more inspirational music and gave us all an autographed CD.
The pinnacle of the weekend was the one and only Rev. Ora. This is a woman who has the gift of the spoken word. I cried throughout her message to us of our place in Christ. At the end of her sermon, she recited her Divinely Framed poem. She had us to say aloud each letter of the ABCs. With each letter, she spoke a word of empowerment. She had a specific word from the Father for Kathryn. She ministered directly into her eyes and several of us gathered around and prayed for her.
Ladies...we had church this morning! The presence of the Holy Spirit was palpable. How awesome is His name above all others. Shirley Mitchell spoke truth when she said that she could see flames of holy fire coming from Ora. Shirley did the concluding comments and prayed a beautiful prayer. She is a beautiful lady, too.
In a nutshell ladies, be ready...because this group is going to grow in strength and numbers. We have much to accomplish. Please, please, please, begin today by setting aside a few dollars each week toward next year's retreat. You do not want to miss it!
To all of you who didn't get to come, you were missed.
To all of you who were here, you are missed.
Love to all of my sisters,
Pam
Let me just say this: My purpose was to Educate, Entertain and Empower women throughout the weekend. As opposed to me explaining it, why don't you read what one of the attendees had to say:
Hi Sisters!
I don't even know where to begin to describe this weekend to you. No words can explain what was experienced by each of us. From the moment that Beverly and I met at the airport until the tears and the final goodbyes this morning, the love for each other and the love of God permeated the atmosphere among the sisters.
I have no question in my mind that we are all truly Divinely Inspired, Vivacious, and Anointed. All of you who couldn't come were continually in thought and very much a part of us here.
I've been to many women's retreats in the past, but nothing that could ever rival this one. Each and every lady is beautiful in mind, body, and spirit. There was never an awkward moment when meeting anyone. It was more like a reunion of old friends. It was exciting as each woman appeared.
We laughed, cried, played, and prayed together. I enjoyed getting to talk with each one on a one-to-one basis. I felt a connection with each and every one of them.
Friday started with a briefing prior to leaving for the TV station. We loaded up on the van and headed for the station. If that driver only knew what precious cargo he had on that van! The taping went well. Beverly had put together a very distinguished panel of experts on women's issues. A few of us got to comment or ask questions. Bev was the consummate professional as she moderated the panel.
Saturday morning breakfast was fab! There weren't that many people here, so with all the options for seminars, we were spread a little thin, but the quality was certainly there. Rhea Becker, Debra Shively Welch, and Kathryn Little and I did a little Zumba workout outside, after which Growing Bolder interviewed us.
Bern Nadette Stanis came in a day late, because she had gotten food poisoning. She is a beautiful lady! She shared with us the importance of not wasting our precious time. She was definitely one of us and she had a great time at the P.J. party last night.
I can't wait for you to hear Jennifer Evans sing! Can that girl wail! She brought us to our feet and tears to our eyes. I hope that Bev got her on video, but if not...I did. When I get back home, I will download my video clips so that you can see them.
The dinner and pageant on Sat. night was so much fun! The comedian was hilarious. I laughed until my sides hurt and I thought the corners of my lips were going to split open. When Silky Waters took the stage, it was evident that this DIVA had stage experience. What a voice! I could have listened to her all night long. She is a character...and does this lady ever know how to dress!
The DIVA pageant was so fun! Each Diva strutted her stuff on the stage. Each with her own dignity, grace, and personality. It was informal and so much fun! I took pictures of each one as they took the stage.
A definite highlight of the event was the pajama party. I haven't had that much fun in I don't know when. Our inhibitions were left at the door and we danced our feet off. I'm telling you, these girls had some moves!
We found out it didn't take long to spend the night at the Hilton last night, because there wasn't much time between 2:30 am and 7:15 this morning.
Following breakfast on Sunday, we heard a stirring testimony from the very gorgeous and sweet Jo Kelly. What a sweetheart she is!
Jennifer graced us with more inspirational music and gave us all an autographed CD.
The pinnacle of the weekend was the one and only Rev. Ora. This is a woman who has the gift of the spoken word. I cried throughout her message to us of our place in Christ. At the end of her sermon, she recited her Divinely Framed poem. She had us to say aloud each letter of the ABCs. With each letter, she spoke a word of empowerment. She had a specific word from the Father for Kathryn. She ministered directly into her eyes and several of us gathered around and prayed for her.
Ladies...we had church this morning! The presence of the Holy Spirit was palpable. How awesome is His name above all others. Shirley Mitchell spoke truth when she said that she could see flames of holy fire coming from Ora. Shirley did the concluding comments and prayed a beautiful prayer. She is a beautiful lady, too.
In a nutshell ladies, be ready...because this group is going to grow in strength and numbers. We have much to accomplish. Please, please, please, begin today by setting aside a few dollars each week toward next year's retreat. You do not want to miss it!
To all of you who didn't get to come, you were missed.
To all of you who were here, you are missed.
Love to all of my sisters,
Pam
Thursday, April 10, 2008
How to Love a Baby Boomer Diva Part II
Give Her Something to Smile About
Come up with creative ways to do something different for your baby boomer diva everyday. Let her know you’re thinking about her throughout the day with an email or a phone call (leave a message if she doesn’t answer). She will appreciate the fact that you took time out of your busy day to think of her.
Just because you aren’t together all the time doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do things to let her know how much you care for her. Remember, intimacy has to leave the bedroom sometimes in order to be totally effective. What does that mean? It means you can do other things to connect with your baby boomer diva emotionally:
1) Why not send her flowers as a token of the love you feel for her along with a “love note.”
2) Take a day off from work and be her “maid for a day” where you handle all of the household chores including her “personal needs.”
3) Take her out for a night on the town and treat it as a first date.
4) Send her flowers at work just because . (even if she’s a work-at-home-mom). It doesn’t have to be connected to a special day. Just let her know you love her and want her to know it.
5) Run her bath water complete with candles and then have a nice, warm towel waiting for her when she gets out of the tub. (A personal favorite of mine.)
Come up with creative ways to do something different for your baby boomer diva everyday. Let her know you’re thinking about her throughout the day with an email or a phone call (leave a message if she doesn’t answer). She will appreciate the fact that you took time out of your busy day to think of her.
Just because you aren’t together all the time doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do things to let her know how much you care for her. Remember, intimacy has to leave the bedroom sometimes in order to be totally effective. What does that mean? It means you can do other things to connect with your baby boomer diva emotionally:
1) Why not send her flowers as a token of the love you feel for her along with a “love note.”
2) Take a day off from work and be her “maid for a day” where you handle all of the household chores including her “personal needs.”
3) Take her out for a night on the town and treat it as a first date.
4) Send her flowers at work just because . (even if she’s a work-at-home-mom). It doesn’t have to be connected to a special day. Just let her know you love her and want her to know it.
5) Run her bath water complete with candles and then have a nice, warm towel waiting for her when she gets out of the tub. (A personal favorite of mine.)
How to Love a Baby Boomer Diva Part I
Loving a Baby Boomer Diva isn’t easy but if you do it right, it’ll be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. I’ll be sharing some tips on how you can keep the Baby Boomer Diva in your life happy 24/7.
Be Understanding
It is important to note that if your Baby Boomer Diva is 40 or over, she is probably going through some emotional and physical changes in her life. She may be entering into what is known as perimenopause or menopause. This is a phase of life where women can experience a multitude of symptoms including:
1. Hot flashes, night sweats and/or cold flashes, clammy feeling.
2. Bouts of rapid heart beat
3. Irritability
4. Mood swings, sudden tears
5. Insomnia
6. Irregular periods; shorter, lighter periods; heavier periods, flooding, phantom periods, shorter cycles, longer cycles.
7. Loss of sexual drive
8. Vaginal dryness
9. Crashing fatigue
10. Anxiety
11. Feelings of depression
12. Difficulty concentrating, disorientation, mental confusion
13. Disturbing memory lapses
14. Incontinence, especially upon sneezing, laughing;
15. Dry Eyes
16. Aching, sore joints, muscles and tendons.
17. Increased tension in muscles
18. Breast tenderness
19. Severe headaches
20. Gastrointestinal distress, indigestion, flatulence, gas pain, nausea
21. Bloating
22. Exacerbation of existing conditions
23. Increase in allergies
24. Weight gain
25. Hair loss or thinning, head, pubic, or whole body; increase in facial hair.
26. Dizziness, light-headedness, episodes of loss of balance
27. Changes in body odor
28. Electric shock sensation under the skin and in the head
29 Gum problems, increased bleeding
30. Burning tongue, burning roof of mouth, bad taste in mouth, dry mouth, change in breath odor
31. Osteoporosis (after several years)
32. Changes in fingernails: softer, crack or break easier
33. Tinnitus: ringing in ears, bells, 'whooshing' buzzing etc.
There may be days when you are the target of her anger and frustration or you may even get the silent treatment. Don’t take it personal. It’s not you. It’s her hormones. If she needs space, give it to her but continue to support her. There may also be times when you’ll have to show her how good you are at dancing on eggshells. And be sure to go the extra mile in helping out around the house.
Be Understanding
It is important to note that if your Baby Boomer Diva is 40 or over, she is probably going through some emotional and physical changes in her life. She may be entering into what is known as perimenopause or menopause. This is a phase of life where women can experience a multitude of symptoms including:
1. Hot flashes, night sweats and/or cold flashes, clammy feeling.
2. Bouts of rapid heart beat
3. Irritability
4. Mood swings, sudden tears
5. Insomnia
6. Irregular periods; shorter, lighter periods; heavier periods, flooding, phantom periods, shorter cycles, longer cycles.
7. Loss of sexual drive
8. Vaginal dryness
9. Crashing fatigue
10. Anxiety
11. Feelings of depression
12. Difficulty concentrating, disorientation, mental confusion
13. Disturbing memory lapses
14. Incontinence, especially upon sneezing, laughing;
15. Dry Eyes
16. Aching, sore joints, muscles and tendons.
17. Increased tension in muscles
18. Breast tenderness
19. Severe headaches
20. Gastrointestinal distress, indigestion, flatulence, gas pain, nausea
21. Bloating
22. Exacerbation of existing conditions
23. Increase in allergies
24. Weight gain
25. Hair loss or thinning, head, pubic, or whole body; increase in facial hair.
26. Dizziness, light-headedness, episodes of loss of balance
27. Changes in body odor
28. Electric shock sensation under the skin and in the head
29 Gum problems, increased bleeding
30. Burning tongue, burning roof of mouth, bad taste in mouth, dry mouth, change in breath odor
31. Osteoporosis (after several years)
32. Changes in fingernails: softer, crack or break easier
33. Tinnitus: ringing in ears, bells, 'whooshing' buzzing etc.
There may be days when you are the target of her anger and frustration or you may even get the silent treatment. Don’t take it personal. It’s not you. It’s her hormones. If she needs space, give it to her but continue to support her. There may also be times when you’ll have to show her how good you are at dancing on eggshells. And be sure to go the extra mile in helping out around the house.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
What is a Baby Boomer Diva? Part I
What is a Baby Boomer Diva? She’s a woman who has spent her entire life taking care of herself and others and appreciates the finer things the world has to offer.
She’s never settled for second best and believes in living life to its fullest. She may be a mother, grandmother or possibly even a great-grandmother but there are no visible signs of the wear and tear from the stress and strain that comes with that role.
Some may call her “needy” and one who thrives on attention but baby boomer divas like to describe themselves as “classy, sassy and sophisticated women who exhibit outstanding and rare talents.
They are graceful and poised under pressure. They’ve lived long enough to recognize the difference between a genuine diamond and cubic zirconia.
Meet Beverly Mahone and other fabulous baby boomer divas at the First Annual Girlfriend's Spring Break in Daytona Beach April 18,19 & 20.
She’s never settled for second best and believes in living life to its fullest. She may be a mother, grandmother or possibly even a great-grandmother but there are no visible signs of the wear and tear from the stress and strain that comes with that role.
Some may call her “needy” and one who thrives on attention but baby boomer divas like to describe themselves as “classy, sassy and sophisticated women who exhibit outstanding and rare talents.
They are graceful and poised under pressure. They’ve lived long enough to recognize the difference between a genuine diamond and cubic zirconia.
Meet Beverly Mahone and other fabulous baby boomer divas at the First Annual Girlfriend's Spring Break in Daytona Beach April 18,19 & 20.
Friday, April 04, 2008
National Girlfriend's Day
I received an email today informing me that it was National Girlfriend's Day. I thought to myself, what makes this day different from any other day? I celebrate my friendships with my fellow baby boomer divas EVERYDAY!
Why?
Well, what would most of us do without our sisters, confidants and shopping, lunching, and traveling buddies? What would we do without the wonderful and powerful online connections we've made? I say let's celebrate each other for each other's sake!
So here's to my fellow baby boomer divas in celebration of this special day!!!
Someone will always be prettier.
Someone will always be smarter..
Their house will be bigger.
They will drive a better car.
Their children will do better in school.
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go, Be Happy!
And love yourself and your circumstances.
Think about it. The prettiest woman in the world can have
trouble in her heart.
And the most highly favored woman on your job may be
unable to have children.
And the richest woman you know, she's got the car,
the house, the clothes....might be lonely.
And the Word says if "I have not Love, I have nothing."
So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say "I'm too blessed to be stressed and to anointed to be disappointed!'
I like that!
Winners make things happen.
Losers let things happen
There are no LOSERS in my circle of friends. We are the fabulous women of Boomer Diva Nation.
Why?
Well, what would most of us do without our sisters, confidants and shopping, lunching, and traveling buddies? What would we do without the wonderful and powerful online connections we've made? I say let's celebrate each other for each other's sake!
So here's to my fellow baby boomer divas in celebration of this special day!!!
Someone will always be prettier.
Someone will always be smarter..
Their house will be bigger.
They will drive a better car.
Their children will do better in school.
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go, Be Happy!
And love yourself and your circumstances.
Think about it. The prettiest woman in the world can have
trouble in her heart.
And the most highly favored woman on your job may be
unable to have children.
And the richest woman you know, she's got the car,
the house, the clothes....might be lonely.
And the Word says if "I have not Love, I have nothing."
So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say "I'm too blessed to be stressed and to anointed to be disappointed!'
I like that!
Winners make things happen.
Losers let things happen
There are no LOSERS in my circle of friends. We are the fabulous women of Boomer Diva Nation.
Friday, March 28, 2008
My First Blog Tour
It's really cool when bloggers come together to support each other. I've seen it done on other blogs but didn't know how it actually worked. That's where Virtual Assistant Teresa Morrow stepped in and offered to help me promote my upcoming Baby Boomer Girlfriends Spring Break in Daytona Beach. She found bloggers who were more than willing to offering some helping fingers and blog space. To all of you, I say THANK YOU and I look forward to returning the favor:
Heidi Richards http://www.virtualwomansday.blogspot.com/ 28-Mar
Karen O Bannon http://www.solspeaks.com/karens-joint 29-Mar
Mary Eileen Williams http://feistysideoffifty.wordpress.com/ 30-Mar
Vicki Taylor http://www.vickimtaylor.com/blogs/ 31-Mar
Debbie Zipp www.inthetrenches.com 1-Apr
Lisa Fredette www.lisafredette.com/blog 2-Apr
Karyln www.yeahmom.com 3-Apr
Corrie Peterson www.virtualfreedom4you.blogspot.com 4-Apr
Rosie Horner http://www.rosiehorner.com/ 5-Apr
Judy Davids http://mydols.com/judydavids.htm 6-Apr
Kathie Thomas http://www.vadirectory.net 7-Apr
Heidi Caswell: http://www.connectsimply.com/blog 8-Apr
Pam Archer www.archerfitpress.wordpress.com 9-Apr
Karyln www.wahmbuds.com 10-Apr
Judy Davids http://www.mydols.com/judydavids.htm 11-Apr
Heidi Richards http://www.virtualwomansday.blogspot.com/ 28-Mar
Karen O Bannon http://www.solspeaks.com/karens-joint 29-Mar
Mary Eileen Williams http://feistysideoffifty.wordpress.com/ 30-Mar
Vicki Taylor http://www.vickimtaylor.com/blogs/ 31-Mar
Debbie Zipp www.inthetrenches.com 1-Apr
Lisa Fredette www.lisafredette.com/blog 2-Apr
Karyln www.yeahmom.com 3-Apr
Corrie Peterson www.virtualfreedom4you.blogspot.com 4-Apr
Rosie Horner http://www.rosiehorner.com/ 5-Apr
Judy Davids http://mydols.com/judydavids.htm 6-Apr
Kathie Thomas http://www.vadirectory.net 7-Apr
Heidi Caswell: http://www.connectsimply.com/blog 8-Apr
Pam Archer www.archerfitpress.wordpress.com 9-Apr
Karyln www.wahmbuds.com 10-Apr
Judy Davids http://www.mydols.com/judydavids.htm 11-Apr
Friday, March 21, 2008
Baby Boomer Selling His Life on eBay
A man in Western Australia has announced plans to sell his "life" on eBay -- an auction he says will include his home, car, other personal belongings and his job.
Ian Usher says he decided to put his life on the auction block after he split with his wife of five years. The baby boomer says the auction will include his $400,000 home, his Mazda 929,a two-week trial at his job in a rug store and an introduction to his friends. The only thing he says he isn't selling is his name.
Usher says the auction is planned to June 22 and last for seven days on eBay. He says he hopes to net at least $500,000 from the sale.
Now, I have to say I'm curious about a few things here. Did his ex just walk away without asking for a dime? Whatever happened to something called a pre-nuptial agreement? If my fellow baby boomer was so upset over the break-up of his marriage, why didn't he do everything he could to work things out? Re-creating the honeymoon magic in a place like St. Lucia could do the trick! Besides, five years isn't long enough to REALLY know each other.
My other thought here is, maybe his life really wasn't worth much beyond the material things.....so why not start anew?
You know as well as I do that there are always two sides of every story---and then there's the TRUTH. I'd love to hear his ex wife's version of this.
Oh well, if you're interested in the auction click here: A Life 4 Sale
Ian Usher says he decided to put his life on the auction block after he split with his wife of five years. The baby boomer says the auction will include his $400,000 home, his Mazda 929,a two-week trial at his job in a rug store and an introduction to his friends. The only thing he says he isn't selling is his name.
Usher says the auction is planned to June 22 and last for seven days on eBay. He says he hopes to net at least $500,000 from the sale.
Now, I have to say I'm curious about a few things here. Did his ex just walk away without asking for a dime? Whatever happened to something called a pre-nuptial agreement? If my fellow baby boomer was so upset over the break-up of his marriage, why didn't he do everything he could to work things out? Re-creating the honeymoon magic in a place like St. Lucia could do the trick! Besides, five years isn't long enough to REALLY know each other.
My other thought here is, maybe his life really wasn't worth much beyond the material things.....so why not start anew?
You know as well as I do that there are always two sides of every story---and then there's the TRUTH. I'd love to hear his ex wife's version of this.
Oh well, if you're interested in the auction click here: A Life 4 Sale
Saturday, March 08, 2008
National Procrastination Week
The week of March 9 has been designated as National Procrastination Week. I wonder who in the world came up with that one?
OK, let's see. What can this baby boomer diva put off during the week?
1) No laundry
2) No housework
3) No sex
4) Don't do any work on the computer
5) Don't pay bills
6) Don't exercise
7) No cooking
8) Don't take any phone calls
9) Don't do Bible study
10) Stop eating
WHATEVER!
OK, let's see. What can this baby boomer diva put off during the week?
1) No laundry
2) No housework
3) No sex
4) Don't do any work on the computer
5) Don't pay bills
6) Don't exercise
7) No cooking
8) Don't take any phone calls
9) Don't do Bible study
10) Stop eating
WHATEVER!
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Here's to all of the Fun, Fabulous, Fancy-Free Women Over 40
This is from my In Case You Missed It File:
60 Minutes Correspondent Andy Rooney (CBS) had this to say about my fellow baby boomer divas:
As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why:
A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, "What are you thinking?" She doesn't care what you think.
If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting.
Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it.
Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated.
Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40.
Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart.
Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her.
Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize.
For all those men who say "Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?" here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!
Andy Rooney is a really smart guy, isn't he?!
60 Minutes Correspondent Andy Rooney (CBS) had this to say about my fellow baby boomer divas:
As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why:
A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, "What are you thinking?" She doesn't care what you think.
If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting.
Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it.
Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated.
Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40.
Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart.
Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her.
Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize.
For all those men who say "Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?" here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!
Andy Rooney is a really smart guy, isn't he?!
Friday, February 29, 2008
The Life of a Useless Negro
As I was flipping through the channels today, I came across a re-broadcast of the State of the Black Union on TV 101.
I wanted to see the “Who’s Who” of Black America. There were the same old familiar faces with a few new ones mixed in. I wonder what’s going to happen when these familiar faces start dying off. Will there be no more State of the Black Union? That’s another blog for another day.
What caught my attention during the forum were the comments made by Rev. Al Sharpton. He said one of the hardest jobs of a black preacher is to give the eulogy of a “useless Negro.” As the casket is being rolled down the aisle to the front of the church and the family is crying, Sharpton said the preacher’s job is to create a fantasy of the life of the deceased. He went on to express the importance of making your life mean something while you’re alive so preachers don’t have to work so hard to re-create something out of nothing when you’re dead.
Say what you want about my fellow African American baby boomer brother Al---but he often speaks a truth many people---both black and white---don’t want to hear. But I, for one, was listening to that message and I totally agree! The question is how many of the folks (young people) who really needed to hear what he said were listening? They probably were out gang bangin' or involved in some other type of criminal activity preparing for their early visit to the grave.
I wanted to see the “Who’s Who” of Black America. There were the same old familiar faces with a few new ones mixed in. I wonder what’s going to happen when these familiar faces start dying off. Will there be no more State of the Black Union? That’s another blog for another day.
What caught my attention during the forum were the comments made by Rev. Al Sharpton. He said one of the hardest jobs of a black preacher is to give the eulogy of a “useless Negro.” As the casket is being rolled down the aisle to the front of the church and the family is crying, Sharpton said the preacher’s job is to create a fantasy of the life of the deceased. He went on to express the importance of making your life mean something while you’re alive so preachers don’t have to work so hard to re-create something out of nothing when you’re dead.
Say what you want about my fellow African American baby boomer brother Al---but he often speaks a truth many people---both black and white---don’t want to hear. But I, for one, was listening to that message and I totally agree! The question is how many of the folks (young people) who really needed to hear what he said were listening? They probably were out gang bangin' or involved in some other type of criminal activity preparing for their early visit to the grave.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
I'm a Baby Boomer Mom Working for the Kingdom
It's one thing to toot your own horn, but it's humbling and wonderful when someone else chooses to put you in the spotlight.
When I was younger I loved having my time to shine! That's the "ego" that stems from being a TV journalist. You love for people to recognize and say good things about you. But as we age and the spotlight fades, we must live and work on our own merits and not the "image" we created in our minds.
I am fascinated with how online connections are made---especially since it wasn't that long ago that I was a clueless baby boomer computer illiterate. But I am thankful that God knows how to connect the dot.coms as He did when he connected me with a wonderful woman named Sherri Walker and her organization, Moms Working for the Kingdom.
She selected me for an interview and here it is: MomsWorkingforthekingdom
When I was younger I loved having my time to shine! That's the "ego" that stems from being a TV journalist. You love for people to recognize and say good things about you. But as we age and the spotlight fades, we must live and work on our own merits and not the "image" we created in our minds.
I am fascinated with how online connections are made---especially since it wasn't that long ago that I was a clueless baby boomer computer illiterate. But I am thankful that God knows how to connect the dot.coms as He did when he connected me with a wonderful woman named Sherri Walker and her organization, Moms Working for the Kingdom.
She selected me for an interview and here it is: MomsWorkingforthekingdom
Thursday, February 14, 2008
My Baby Boomer Valentine
Honey, even though you’re getting older with signs of gray
I want you to know I love you more and more each day.
My sexy handsome husband, you’re so worthy of my attention
'Cause you still know how to crank up that old engine.
Your love, your kisses are pure delight
And it’s a joy to snuggle up to you every night.
Thank you for coping with my menopause day after day after day
And finally figuring out that sometimes it’s just best to get out of my way!
Yes, even today you still make me hotter than a hot flash and that’s no lie
My Baby Boomer Valentine, I’ll be yours until the day YOU die.
Original Poem written by Beverly Mahone
I want you to know I love you more and more each day.
My sexy handsome husband, you’re so worthy of my attention
'Cause you still know how to crank up that old engine.
Your love, your kisses are pure delight
And it’s a joy to snuggle up to you every night.
Thank you for coping with my menopause day after day after day
And finally figuring out that sometimes it’s just best to get out of my way!
Yes, even today you still make me hotter than a hot flash and that’s no lie
My Baby Boomer Valentine, I’ll be yours until the day YOU die.
Original Poem written by Beverly Mahone
Friday, February 08, 2008
We're Fun, We're Fabulous & We're Grandmothers
This week two of my friends became grandmothers. One of them is Carine Nadel. Some of you may know her from her blog: carine-whatscooking.blogspot.com The other is author, Vicki M. Taylor: vickimtaylor.com Both women are members of Boomer Diva Nation---a group I created where boomer women rock, roll, rule and unite!
As I read the announcements from Carine and Vicki, I could feel the excitement in their spirits! I could also feel their sense of relief that their little girls had made it through a successful delivery. That's because they both lived through nine anxious months and had to cope with their daughter's health issues.
In September 2006, I went through a similar experience when my daughter gave birth.
So here we all are preparing to lend our support and a little (or maybe ALOT) influence to our new little ones. We will love them, spoil them and silently hurt when they hurt.
People may look at us and say we're too young to be grandmothers. I, personally, take that as a compliment. I'm excited to have my health and strength to be able to deal with my grandson as he gets older. I'm sure Carine and Vicki share my sentiments.
So in this blog I am saluting Carine, Vicki and all of the Fabulous Diva grandmothers out there! It's a true blessing indeed!!!
As I read the announcements from Carine and Vicki, I could feel the excitement in their spirits! I could also feel their sense of relief that their little girls had made it through a successful delivery. That's because they both lived through nine anxious months and had to cope with their daughter's health issues.
In September 2006, I went through a similar experience when my daughter gave birth.
So here we all are preparing to lend our support and a little (or maybe ALOT) influence to our new little ones. We will love them, spoil them and silently hurt when they hurt.
People may look at us and say we're too young to be grandmothers. I, personally, take that as a compliment. I'm excited to have my health and strength to be able to deal with my grandson as he gets older. I'm sure Carine and Vicki share my sentiments.
So in this blog I am saluting Carine, Vicki and all of the Fabulous Diva grandmothers out there! It's a true blessing indeed!!!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Turn Up the Heat for Super Bowl Sunday
I don’t about you but I refuse to be a baby boomer sports widow on Super Bowl Sunday. I am not going to sit at home alone while my baby boomer husband decides he wants to be around “like-minded” individuals (who just happen to be all men) to watch the big game.
Actually, I won’t be alone because my husband actually enjoys watching sports with me. Why? Because I’ve studied the games over the years---and being a cheerleader certainly helped! I can sit and intelligently discuss first downs and offside penalties and referee calls that should’ve or should not have been made. I’ve also learned how to make watching the game interesting in the romance department.
I guess you're asking yourself, how can sports possibly be romantic especially if you hate it. Well, why not look at it this way. If you love your husband (mate), why not take a sincere interest in his love for the game---whether it be football, basketball, tennis or WHATEVER! If it's something your husband really enjoys, wouldn't you rather learn about it, and share the common bond of sports than to have him watch it alone or always leave to watch it with his buddies? I prefer to be a sports wife rather than a sports widow.
Here are a few of my tips to help you get your husband prepared and in the mood for Super Bowl Sunday and any other sports championship game:
Start out by having your own pre-game show. The two of you can toss a football out in the yard. When he lets you tackle him, you can sneak in a kiss. Or why not be the quarterback and instead of hiking a 'real' ball, just pretend there's a ball there, between his legs, and turn it into a game of touch football. After an hour or so of fun, fantasy and sweat, you can go inside--take a shower--and relax while getting ready for the Big Game.
No matter what you plan, if you do it with excitement and enthusiasm, it'll be a treat for him. And, the next time you're watching an episode of Desperate Housewives, don't be surprised if you find your husband sitting next to you preparing to make some moves of his own.
Remember this: Just because we're getting older doesn't mean the fire has gone out in the romance department.
Actually, I won’t be alone because my husband actually enjoys watching sports with me. Why? Because I’ve studied the games over the years---and being a cheerleader certainly helped! I can sit and intelligently discuss first downs and offside penalties and referee calls that should’ve or should not have been made. I’ve also learned how to make watching the game interesting in the romance department.
I guess you're asking yourself, how can sports possibly be romantic especially if you hate it. Well, why not look at it this way. If you love your husband (mate), why not take a sincere interest in his love for the game---whether it be football, basketball, tennis or WHATEVER! If it's something your husband really enjoys, wouldn't you rather learn about it, and share the common bond of sports than to have him watch it alone or always leave to watch it with his buddies? I prefer to be a sports wife rather than a sports widow.
Here are a few of my tips to help you get your husband prepared and in the mood for Super Bowl Sunday and any other sports championship game:
Start out by having your own pre-game show. The two of you can toss a football out in the yard. When he lets you tackle him, you can sneak in a kiss. Or why not be the quarterback and instead of hiking a 'real' ball, just pretend there's a ball there, between his legs, and turn it into a game of touch football. After an hour or so of fun, fantasy and sweat, you can go inside--take a shower--and relax while getting ready for the Big Game.
No matter what you plan, if you do it with excitement and enthusiasm, it'll be a treat for him. And, the next time you're watching an episode of Desperate Housewives, don't be surprised if you find your husband sitting next to you preparing to make some moves of his own.
Remember this: Just because we're getting older doesn't mean the fire has gone out in the romance department.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Can Baby Boomers Find Their Soul Mate Online?
If you had asked me this question 10 years ago, I would've said "No way!" but less than five years ago, I met the man I eventually married on the internet. Well, actually HE found ME.
I met my first husband in an apartment complex. Funny, how times have changed. With the introduction of this relatively new technology called the “internet,” baby boomers, like myself, are finding another innovative way to hook-up.
These days, the internet offers an interesting way to meet similar-minded people and make a connection. Regardless of a certain stigma attached to meeting people online, there is no denying the fact that there are literally millions of people out there using cyberspace hoping to make a connection.
Looks and physical appearance are more likely to take a back seat as we age and we tend to look at other more important qualities such as personality, spirituality and goal-oriented interests.
There is a disadvantage of internet dating though. You could end up wasting your time connecting with someone who is pretending to be someone else. Just like every other generation, some baby boomers like to play games because they never grew up.
Oh, but you don't need to be online to have that experience, do you?
Be sure to check out my show on BlogTalk Radio on Thursday, January 31 when I discuss "Internet Love for Baby Boomers." BlogtalkRadio/Whateverlive
I met my first husband in an apartment complex. Funny, how times have changed. With the introduction of this relatively new technology called the “internet,” baby boomers, like myself, are finding another innovative way to hook-up.
These days, the internet offers an interesting way to meet similar-minded people and make a connection. Regardless of a certain stigma attached to meeting people online, there is no denying the fact that there are literally millions of people out there using cyberspace hoping to make a connection.
Looks and physical appearance are more likely to take a back seat as we age and we tend to look at other more important qualities such as personality, spirituality and goal-oriented interests.
There is a disadvantage of internet dating though. You could end up wasting your time connecting with someone who is pretending to be someone else. Just like every other generation, some baby boomers like to play games because they never grew up.
Oh, but you don't need to be online to have that experience, do you?
Be sure to check out my show on BlogTalk Radio on Thursday, January 31 when I discuss "Internet Love for Baby Boomers." BlogtalkRadio/Whateverlive
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