My time away...
Well kids. I finally got away from my understandably dull life. As an approaching graduating senior in college (might I addd.... I'm 34 years old..but still a cute black princess!), I'm down to the bear minimum boring classes and hating every minute of it! My life consists of..going to work at 6:30 am, leave for class at 9:38am (this is the time I need to clock out.. don't ask!) sit in a class full of idiots who feel it necessary to prove their intelligence by YELLING out answers before the teacher even asks. I just sit and wonder..."why Lord? There's a reason for this right? It's gonna be "greater later" right?" This is my daily prayer/questions. Sometimes I think he's laughing at me! Anyway, class ends at 11:20 and I run back to my car to get back to work by 11:30am. I work (a.k.a. cruise the internet) until 5pm and then make the journey home. Most days I go directly to my bedroom and do homework then sleep until it starts all over again. Wednesdays I have church choir rehearsal from 8-10pm... Friday..occasional drinks with the girls..Sunday.. two church services. Yeah...that's about it. Anyone feel sorry for me yet??
Thursday, July 24, 2008
No one knows how excited I was to visit my oldest sister Anissa in Washington DC. Just a chance to get away was exciting, but to add to the fun, I would be landing on her 37th birthday. I asked my ex-boyfriend Ugunda to drop me off at the airport so I didn't have to pay for 4 days of parking. He graciously agreed. (as if he had a choice! I told ya'll I was cute! He' s still smitten!.....LOL....I have never used the word 'smitten' before! I crack myself up!)
Normally I have issues flying because of severe ear pain, but I decided I would wing it since it was only a 45-50 minute flight. My plan worked. Aside from a few pops, I was fine. I got off the plane secretly hoping a flock of men were awaiting my arrival... but I was disappointed. I got toothless grins and looked up and down by some men older than my father. No thanks. I had to immediately pee (as usual) once I got off the plane, even though I peed twice before I got on it! One day, I gonna bribe a doctor to insert a permanent catheter to alleviate all this 'toilet usage'.
Ok... fluff the hair, straighten the fit.. (short for 'outfit') and lick the lips. Now I'm ready to see my public. I make my way down to the baggage claim area and hear a familiar calling."Heeyyyy Diva!" I turn around to find my big sis braided up and looking cute! She's holding a sign that says "Diva Lolly". She used to call me Lolly when we were younger. It was cute. I immediately spot my ONE suitcase...(can you believe I only packed ONE suitcase?? No carry-on or nothing! Yeah... it weighed 62 pounds but still! ONE BAG!) and ran to retrieve it before it went back around the belt.
We made our way to the escalator and the car. Now.. I'm officially on vacation!!! WOO HOO!!!! I let out a scream, but neglected to put the windows down, so Anissa didn't appreciate this. Oh well!
First stop? Charm City Cakes. Every seen this show on the Food Network channel? You know.. Duff the cake guy? I wanted to see the shop since I had flown into Baltimore Airport and this is the city in which the show is based. So we ventured out to find it. Now I wanted to take pictures and had 2 cameras with me. A digital and a 35mm. The problem? The digital needed batteries and the 35mm needed film! I obviously wasn't prepared. So I asked her... "can you stop at the nearest Drug Store so I can get batteries, film or both?" No problem right? WRONG! WHERE WERE ALL THE DAMNED STORES??? We got lost for about 30 minutes when we ran into a 7-11 and they didn't have either. Nissa asked a man parked next to us for directons to a store or the Charm City Shop, and he told us there was a store on the next corner. I should have known better. It already seemed like we were in a weird ghetto area, but that store took the cake! (No pun intended!)
Let me just say...the store? We almost missed it. It was a dirty little side store but we went in anyway. She opened the door and I felt like we should have run in the other direction. She saw ice cream and I saw a dirty ass cat that looked anorexic sitting in the corner. I asked the guy behind the layers of glass (you heard me...layers) and asked him if they sold batteries. He asked.."what size?" I answered.."Triple A. I need a four pack if you have it." At that moment, the door opened and another patron came in and the nasty ass cat quickly ran out. The patron said "oh shit! I'm sorry!" and the nice man behind the layers said.."It's ok!" I paid for Anissa's ice cream (after all.... it was her birthday!) and the packs of batteries ($4.78 I think) and he handed me a small black plactic bag with my purchases in it. I decided to immediately give her the ice cream since it was SOOOOO HOT when I noticed something strange. Where were the pack of batteries I had just purchased? The bag was awfully light so I looked into the bag, didn't see them and turned around to say "excuse me..I didn't get the batteries." when I noticed something even stranger. I just asked Anissa to go to the car...before I died of laughter. We got outside and I showed her what looked like an empty bag to find out that I DID get the batteries. Where were they? At the bottom of the bag...NOT IN A PACKAGE!!! THIS NIGGA SOLD ME WHAT LOOKED LIKE 4 LONELY USED BATTERIES HE HAD SITTING AROUND!!!! I began laughing so hard I was almost crying! I was just saying...they better work! Fortunately they did! Great first impression of Baltimore huh? lol!
5-8 minutes later I noticed what looked like the Charm City building... and it was! Right smack in the hood diagonally from the Police Department. A filming crew was actually outside getting shots, so we parked and got out. We asked one of the flunkies to take our picture but he acted like he didn't want to, so Anissa took one of me in front of the building and I took a few of my own. Unfortunately Duff didn't come out, so we left after about 15 minutes.
Second stop was the Baltimore Harbor. NICE! Aquariums, restaurants, water, big boats..it was great. We looked around the shops and decided this was a good place for lunch. Now, since I've never been, we decided to eat at Hooters. I just wanted chicken folks. No interest in watching ladies trounce around with their tits and asses hanging out, but our waitress was nice and sat down to talk to us. Lots of men wishing they weren't married I guess. The table next to us was so busy looking at the show, they didn't realize we had received our order and was ready to leave and they hadn't received their order! Sad. So sad. The vagina is a powerful thang!!!! LOL!!
We left and were on out way back to the car when I saw the Chessy Dragon Paddle boats and decided I needed to get in one. $16 for a 1/2 hour. We only did it about 20 minutes. It was a big green floating dragon that you pedal like a bike. We both had pedals but I didn't want her to do it since her legs tend to bother her from time to time since she has MS. (KEEP THE PRAYERS GOING YA'LL! THERE'S A CURE OUT THERE SOMEWHERE!)
Anyway...again...we floated in this murky stinky dirty water for about 20 minutes. We had our fill. It was fun though. She was on the phone and I was trying not to run into other people. This was crazy but I was glad I did it!
Now it's time to make it to her apartment. First we need to stop at her grocery store to get...eggs or something. We run into a older man in the back of the store dancing to Gladys Knights "Midnight Train to Georgia" (this store's music was jammin!! You gotta love black folks!) He then held his hand out to Anissa to dance and she did. He busted a SPLIT straight to the ground and I yelled " OKKKKAAAAYYYY!!!!!" I felt like I was in the club!
Now, at the checkout, we are just waitng in line when we looked to the right to see the SAME DANCING MAN cashiering!!! We were like "WTF ARE YOU DOING BACK THERE DANCIN IF YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE UP HERE WORKING??" He just shrugged and laughed. It was hilarious!
Now Anissa had warned me saying she lived in the "lightweight hood" but I didn't think so. Lots of blacks but the whole city has a lot of US!!! Really cute apartment. It was time to deliver gifts to her, so I sang "Happy Birthday" and presented her with gifts. It was silly. We then decided we were PAST DUE for cocktails! So we made drinks and went out to her balcony to chit chat and tell sisterly secrets! Sorry... I can't share those, but ...WOW!!! That's all I'm saying about that!
After a few drinks and mosquito bites, we decided to get "re-cute" go to a late dinner since it was after 11pm. We went to a place called Jasper's which was excellent! I loved everything about it. The look, the menu and the type of people it had attracted. I was really impressed. I would love to own someplace like that one day! Back to her place to settle in for some rest. And boy did I need it!
Friday, July 25, 2008
I can't believe I woke up so early on my second day of vacation! I SUCK! It was like 7am and I was tying to get back to sleep. I gave up, and got up. So did she. She started cooking breakfast (eggs and sausage)and telling me what was on the agenda for the day. She told me that we were expected at a Pool Party and Crab Fest later that weekend and she was responsible for bringing deviled eggs, cole slaw and homemade crab sauce. I did the deviled eggs for her so we could get our day started.
We got dressed and decided against taking a bus to catch the train (which was right next door to the U.S. Census Bureau!). She drove instead so that we didn't have to wait too long in case we were late coming back. (We were expected to do Happy Hour at a club called H2O around 5pm) Catching the train was scary at first because we were casually walking, I was whistling, she was on the phone..when all of a sudden she yelled "RUN!!" So I did. Why? I had absolutely no idea! But as black folks... we don't ask questions until later! She later told me that if we didn't make that train we would have to wait 17 minutes for the next one. 17 MINUTES??? Whatever. We made it and I tried to act like I had done this a million times before so that I didn't look like a tourist. I think it kind of worked. I was causing quite a stir obviously due to my attire. I had on a Obama t-shirt that said CHANGE on it. EVERYONE LOVED IT!! I got sooo many stares and people saying "I like that shirt!" so, I felt like I was doing my part in trying to get him elected. Cool! "Obama in 08/09...It's about time!" Ya'll like that? I just made it up! Don't hate!
As soon as we got off the train, we ran into the Farmer's Market on the Department of Agriculture lawn. It was very nice. Again...folks loved the shirt! We walked down the street to the National African American Museum. Beautiful building! I even found some items from MY PEOPLE from Sierra Leone Limba tribe! I was excited. But best of all in this place?.... Wait for it......wait for it.... THE JIM HENSON MUSEUM ON THE BOTTOM FLOOR!!! I mean it had everything! Enclosed puppet replicas, old movies, and some of his first actual drawings etc. It was great and very interesting! I'm still trying to figure out why his stuff was in the National African American Museum. Was he secretly black?I wonder what his mama looked like. Whatever. I went to the gift shop and purchased an African dance DVD so I can get all ethnic on ya'll at the club!
We then went to the Smithsonian Castle to see the "American Treasures" exhibit. It was ok.... I guess. Back to the Farmer's Market so she could buy this squash that looked like a round soap blossom, and then back on the train to the next stop.
We were trying to find the National Aquarium, and found it eventually, but I think we walked 6 miles trying to find it in 98 degree heat and 100% humidity! (ok... it probably wasn't 6 miles, but... it was at least 2! It was hot!) The aquarium was in the basement of the Department of Commerce and was dark. Weird looking fish and they had an alligator feeding 10 minutes after we got there. Some of those things are still on my mind! Creepy!
We sat and rested for a few minutes (Hey Nis!..."Not You!" LOL!! Sorry.. inside joke.) and they we ventured back out in the heat to find the train home and some WATER!!! Dehydration was setting in fast! I was starting to see my life flashing before my "pretty brown eyes"! (Mint Condition follks! Get the CD's!) OH GOD!!!! HELP!!!
Help arrived about 20 minuted later in the form of a banana/pineapple smoothie. We made it to the Ronald Reagan building food court. HUGE! Anissa decided to eat a loaded baked potato and chicken wings...which she enjoyed thoroughly! This girl was hungry the entire time I was there! I'm surprised she's not a porker! Must be the meds making her have the munchies..ALL DAY LONG! Yeah...that's it! Am I hating? Absolutely! How is it I can probably count the calories I ate the ENTIRE trip and I still look like I'm bloated...from being in the damned womb from all that umbilical fluid?? Again... I suck!
We saw the Lincoln Monument, Capital Building, EPA Building, Customs and Borders building, Freedom Plaza (soldier monuments) but it was now time to catch our train back home. I enjoyed that ride. I think I like the train system! (although it can be expensive!)
Unfortunately, we were late getting back to her spot. It was after 4 and we were supposed to be at Happy Hour at 5. I needed time to get fabulous! I did the best I could in 45 minutes. I hate being rushed! Oh well... I was still sexy!
We made it there by 6 and had to pay $10 to park down the street. I guess this was "lucky"? So I was told. Nice club though. Nice size and they had free vittles and free wine until 7pm. I had my usual Jack Daniels and Coke for a mere $8. I wasn't shocked... just irritated by the PLASTIC GLASS I received for 8 bucks! Nissa and I settled into a couch by the door so we can see the people entering. We were expecting friends and family. My cousin Kim and her friend (Milen??..Sorry, I forgot her name) were next through the door. We all sat and chatted for all of 3 minutes before being accosted by a old man (we called him Deacon... cause he looked like he could be one!) flirting with all of us. His opening line to Anissa was "Do you work for Ebony magazine?" Yeah... that was it. He looked and me and tolds me I was sexy with bedroom eyes. Kim was sensuous dark chocolate and her friend received another stupid line. "Your eyes are as beautiful as the starts above!" And I responded..."Not the stars below? Just the ones above!" He said "Yeah!" Whatever. Came to find out his name was "Dancin' Buddy" and he was quoting those lines all over the club! He was kind enough to invite us to his HOTEL room for drinks since he was too CHEAP to purchase any at the club! LOSERS are all over the globe! I swear! LOL!
My cousin Tiffany popped up shortly after and we all went outside. STILL HOT!!! I couldn't stand it. Kim and I went back in to watch the steppers dance when my cousin Marlon showed up. YEA MORE FAMILY!!! So good to see everyone. Anissa's other friends Noni and Erica and another young lady (Adrienne maybe?? sorry... I was drinking) also came to party. Kim's friend decided to walk her out and I was alone watching drinks. Some DJ lady was broadcasting from the club and she asked who was NOT from the DC area and about 6 of us gave shouts out to our perspective cities. CLEVELAND!!! After that, she wanted folks to get out on the floor. Since I was watching drinks, I didn't go. She then called me out! "Cleveland! Why aren't you dancing??" I told her why, so she asked her husband to watch all of our drinks! LOL! So I proceeded to get my line dance on! Tiffany ended up behind me somehow and we got crazy for a bit. For the rest of the night... I was known as Cleveland by all the fellas. Too funny!
Kim and I ended up back on the couch talking for awhile when I was told by Erica that I was being summoned by Anissa. Back outside to the table in the still 90+ heat! On my way out there, I was asked by 3 gentlemen to dance. I said no to all, but the last freak was relentless!! I said.."ok..let's hurry up!" He was so close and all up in my face! Grinding on my leg, and behind, and back so hard, I had to push him off of me! AND HIS BREATH!!!! DAMN! My eyes are still watering! And I believe I'm missing a few eyebrow hairs! He just kept staring at me and singing in my ear... "...*murder she wrote, murder she wroooottttteee!!*..." Over and over while his eye or eyes(I couldnt tell which one was the good one!) were glued on me! YUCK!!! I had to cut that mess short! On ,my way off the dance floor, all I heard was "CLEEEEVELAND!!!!!" by a few brothas wanting to kick it. I just tossed up my hands and chopped it up with them for a minute. I saw folks waving in my direction so I made my way outside to see what was going on.
And there she was.... My sister. Drunk as all hell! Flirting with folks who didn't want to flirt. Talking to folks not talking to her. And running her mouth...TOO MUCH! Telling all her damned business! At first it was funny, cause I haven't seen her drunk in A LONG TIME but then I realized I was in trouble. SHE WAS MY RIDE! I DIDN'T KNOW WHERE I WAS! HOW WOULD I GET HER HOME!! She soon passed out..... in Tiffany's purse when she went to dance with a young man named Dennis. That's right! I turned around to talk to a guy and he was like.."Damn...is she ok?" I turned to find her head in Tiffany's purse and I gently lifted her head, saw she was breathing, and put it back in the purse. "Yeah... she's fine!" We talked for a few more minutes and then Tiff and Kim were back. Tiff seemed tipsy as well so I had to look to Kim for help. Marlon had left because he had a game to play at and now I was wishing he stayed. LOL!!!
After awhile, we figured out a plan for everyone to get home safely. Kim would go with Tiffany and I would follow Erica in Anissa's car back to Anissa's house. But first... we had to get her to the car! I grabbed one side of her and Tiff grabbed the other and away we went. This guy yelled out.."Cleveland...you gone???!!" I just said "Sorry baby! Maybe next time!"
Nissa's eyes were open, but that's just about it. We (Kim and I) sat her outside while Tiff and Erica went to locate their trucks. A staff guy said " Oh no...we can't have her out here like this!" I informed him I was waiting for the cars. Then an owner or something came and said "We're gonna need to get her off of our premises. Bad for business!" Now, I'm thinking....damn! What now?!! So I decided to use my feminine wiles and flirt with him until the cars came. It worked! LOL! He helped us load her in Erica's truck and the staff guy asked me "Can I go with you baby??" LOL! Yeah Nat.... you still got it!!
Erica drove me down to the car and we decided to leave Anissa where she was. I got out and began to follow behind her all the way home. WHEW!!! We made it! I don't think it was even 11pm! Not at all what I expected! We unloaded her and managed to get her upstairs to her apartment. She was barefoot now so it was a bit difficult. We dumped her in the bed and tried to give her some form of comfort. Took her bra off of her and that was it. I thanked Erica for her help and tried to give her $20 bucks for the waste of her gas but she wouldn't take it. She was really cool about the whole thing. She left, I got undressed and watched TV until I fell asleep. Oh Lord! What a day!!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
After a "interesting" night out on the town last night, and new back pains from sleeping on Anissa's couch, (I slept in her bed the night before, but I was NOT sleeping with her last night in case she got sick. And she did!) I think we both woke up earlier than expected. All that was on the agenda for the day way the Pool Party and Crab Fest. So we had until 3pm to hang around and rest. I did mention to her that I had never gotten any souvenirs or many pictures so we decided to go shopping. After getting ready though, Erica stopped by to check on her and give her a birthday gift. She hung around for a bit and then Anissa and I went shopping for...whatever we could find actually.
We went to cousin's Marlon's neighborhood and she showed me where they lived. We stopped at Tiffany's old house (which is being turned into a rental property now) and she wasn't there but her neighbor was (some guy..named "D" something who is also a friend of Anissa's...you know what I mean?? LOL!) so I sat in the car after a brief introduction and waited for them to talk, then we went around the corner to Marlon's house. He and Kim were home but we didn't stay long. We had shopping to do!
We made it over to a shopping center and went to one of my favorite places... PAYLESS! That's right! Anissa found 2 pairs and I bought a cute pair of flip flops to run around in for just a couple of bucks. Stopped at Wendy's for a snack and back to her house to change for the Pool Party. She took me downtown DC and we tried to find a spot to park and look for souveniers, but no such luck. So I got out while she circled and circled and circled while watiing for me to find a few momentos.
I struck paydirt with a cheap vendor on a corner under a tent. A nice Asian woman standing there looking bored so I walked up to see what she had to sell. I said "hello" and she replied the same. I somehow broke my sunglasses at that moment, but oddly enough she had some to sell. I asked how much they were and she said $5 each. I found two pair I liked as well as 2 cute t-shirts and 4 keychains. The lady asked (in her accent).."Where you from?" I told her "Cleveland" She grinned and said "I can tell you not from heah. You too nice!" I laughed and she proceeded to take a bottle of Dasani and stuck a toothbrush in it and began... BRUSHING HER TEETH!!! I just watched and looked around to see if anyone else was watching this mess! She said .."People here..not nice." And her face was dead serious! " I replied "well, it's easier to be nice than to be mean." She must of liked that, because she stopped brushing her teeth and said "Cleveland huh? I may move!" Her facial expressions were priceless! Then Nissa called to see if I was done and I told her I was ready to pay. She only charged me $28 for the stuff and gave me some free 'Obama for President' magnets. I ran to catch Anissa so she didn't have to circle again or get a ticket.
Now it was time to find our way to the Pool Party. We passed a few historical spots and I took some pictures while looking for the correct highway. In order to get where we were going, we had to cross over into Alexandria VA and I found it hilarious how they have 3 different states within short distances of each other. Maryland, DC and VA. I went on a bigger vacation than I thought! After feeling lost for awhile, we got on the right track. She went past, what is going to be the brand new Washington Harbor. It's already looking good so once it's completely finished it's going to be a nice place to kick it!
Well... now we are really late for the pool party! It was from 3pm-6pm but it was 5pm by the time we got there! We stayed long enough to see the host family's BEAUTIFUL home and of course.. we ate! Not alot since we were expected at the Crab Fest at 7pm. Anissa had her bathing suit on, but she choose not to go in the water. She did tell the host family that she would be back though! It was a beautiful home. They should be proud. I love to see black people making it and doing Big Thangs! Gives me hope! lol!
We soon left and got back on the highway for a quick change of clothes and went over to the Crab Fest. We grabbed the cole slaw and crab sauce and a few old t-shirts to put on so that we didn't get crab juice on our clothes, and then we were off. Anissa's friends kept calling asking what was taking so long. I asked..."wow. They are in that much of a hurry for some cole slaw?" We were making great time until... BAM! Traffic stopped! And I do mean completely stopped! We were almost there! We saw like 2 fire trucks and 4 ambulance trucks so we knew that it wasn't good...whatever it was. A few people got out of their cars and tried to see what was going on, so of course... I did the same. I walked around the highway (while she stayed in the car) and talked to a few folks, flirted with a group of bikers and then started making my way back to the car. At one point I looked over the side walls to see what was down there and could have sworn I saw a FOOT! Not connected to anything...just a foot! So...I ran back to the car. Anissa thought that was funny! LOL! Now traffic began moving and again... we were off. More calls from her friends and she assured them the crab sauce was just minutes away! ( I guess that was a necessary staple to eating whole Crabs!)
We made it and I noticed there was another party right next door! I guess it was an engagement party. We pulled up to ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL HOUSE! Wow! We were greeted at the door by some wonderful ladies! Anissa had talked about them since I got there. And she was right! They were all soooooo nice and funny! They hugged and took me in as if I was a part of their family. I loved them! There was about 10-13 of us so I don't want to forget any names so I won't mention any of them but... these ladies have it going on!! Great jobs, great lives and great friends and family. What's better than this? The ladies were all older than us, (Anissa is the youngest of their group) but I would kick it with them anytime! It turned out that this was also a surprise party for Anissa. They gave her a few cards and we all sang, danced (they crashed the next door party to line dance), drank and ate cake...as well as cole slaw, ribs, corn, crabs, etc. It was very nice.
Ok... now let me tell ya'll about the whole 'crab' thing. Wow! These folks are SERIOUS! They had purchases a bushel (everyone chipped in), coved the tables with newspapers and dug in to whole crabs. I was nervous since I had all these eyes on me... the ladies and the crabs! I've never eaten any more than crab legs, so this was a new experience. There was a techniques of what to eat, what NOT to eat etc, so I was trying to pay attention. They did give me a few and I sat down to learn. ALOT of work for A LITTLE crab! But I still had a ball!
We all talked and laughed and then we made a few toasts and I thanked the ladies for treating me so well and always being there for Anissa. They said "We've got her back!" and I totally believe them! Mom mom should feel better knowing Anissa has such a great group of ladies on her side. I did!
Now it was getting late and we helped clean up and began to head home. Another busy fun packed day was under our belts. She went straight to bed and I stayed up to watch a few of my shows... then I drifted off to sleep.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Time for church! We got up and got dressed fast so we wouldn't be late for the 8am service at Mt Enon. This is Anissa's church. Nice people and a great Men's chorus. Church was pretty big. Her pastor was in the middle of a marriage series about "Givin Suga". It was nice.
After service we went to Sunday School class. We went to the class for women. It was awesome! We talked about relationships, sex and what God want for us and from us. The funniest part was when we were in the middle of listening when the young Reverend woman running the group stopped the class to ask... "Are you two related?" I looked us to see who she was talking to and it was US!!! LOL!! We just said said "yes, we're sisters." Everyone was turned around staring at us and a few people asked if we were twins! LOL! It was hilarious! After about an hour or so, it was time to leave. It was almost 11am and we had reservations for a Champagne Brunch. FABULOUS!!!! Mimosas non-stop!! I loved it! Food was great with a lovely atmosphere. I could do that every week! I loved the fact that black folks have so many classy places to experience here.
After stuffing ourselves as much as possible, we were on our way to see another cousin Dwight (a.k.a. "Doc") as well as Tiffany's brand new house. It was so good to Dwight and his wife Vicky and their two girls. So cute! Again... ANOTHER FABULOUS HOUSE!!!!
Dwight gave me a tour and we talked for a bit about a lot of stuff. I was impressed as hell but he said..."This is nothing! Wait until you see Tiffany's!" Again we were on a tight schedule so we didn't stay too long. Dwight told me I should think about moving down there and I told him I was. I kidded about working for him so I could get some of that "Dwight money" and we laughed but he did tell me to send him my resume. TRUST! IT WILL BE SENT!! We said our goodbyes and moved to the next stop.
Got lost for a few minutes but Tiff's new house was not far from Dwight's. It started raining as soon as we pulled up to her mini mansion (YES...this is what I'm calling it! If you saw it, you would agree!) so I couldn't take a picture of the outside of the house. We went in and I got my first glance of my new little cousin Kennedy. Tiff's daughter who is almost 2 years old now. A little cutie! But not shocking since the entire Hunter clan is absolutely gorgeous! It's a fact. Don't Hate! Attempt to emmulate! LOL! Again... I JUST MADE THAT UP! Boy am I talented!
Anyway... she gave me the grand tour. It was indeed grand. But all this space for 3 little people? Like 4 or 5 bathrooms, 4-5 bedrooms... laundry room, Kennedy's play room, big kitchen, formal and informal dining and living room areas, third floor recreation/party/family room..and a recording studio on the way! WOW! I definitely wouldn't want to make this payment! lol! She can have it! Definitely 'baller' money! "One day Diva....one day!" (sorry... I talk to myself somtimes!) It was definitely too much house for me, but Dwights's? I'll take it! LOL! I could definitely make that one happen! YA'LL GO!!! MAKE THAT MONEY HONEY!!!
I took a roll of pictures of her crib in case I could use something in one of my PR Brochures one day, and of course... to show everbody! My only word to describe it... "Opulent!"
We had to go after about 45 minutes because it was time to go back home to Cleveland soon. We made our way back to Anissa's crib so that I could re-pack and prepare to go. Unfortunately on the way back, more stopped traffic. Damn! What's up with this city?? It's Sunday! She tried to take a detour but still got stopped! We finally found out why. Bush was back in town or some other dignitaries were in the area. I saw a number of secret service people. Held up traffic for like a 3-5 mile radius! Crazy! She was unsure of where to go, but things started to look familiar to her. I heard some rumbling outside so I looked up to see a huge airplane landing CLOSE! So close I could read the name. I think it was Airforce One! Very impressive aircraft. Finally we made it to our destination. Back to her spot.
After re-packing, I fell asleep while Anissa re-warmed the crabs that were left from the night before and devoured them. LOL. I had my fill of those! Too many rules!
She woke me at 6pm and said... "It's time to go." Awww...... vacation was officially over.
We prayed for no traffic and God must have heard our prayers. A smooth ride. After arriving at the airport and waiting in a line so long I was afraid I was gonna miss my flight, (my flight was at 8:10 and it was now 7:45pm) I finally checked in and it was time to say "Goodbye" to my big sister. The part of the trip that I was dreading the most. We hugged and as I was going through the ropes, the tears came. I knew it! I absolutely hate saying farewell to my siblings. She must have knew because she handed me tissue. (Damn! I'm crying right now as I type this! Ahhh!!!!! I hate that!) I had to bring out the big glasses so I didn't look soft! I made it to Gate A and something told me to look at the Arrivals/Departure schedule. WTF??? Why was my flight moved to 10:10pm?? I asked one of the workers what happened, then I called o tell Anissa, my mom and Ugunda (he was picking me up) the bad news.
I tried to make the best of my time and went shopping. After looking again at the schedule, it was moved again to 10:40!!!! WHAT!!! Now, I'm getting irritated. But nothing I could do but sit, read and wait. So that's what I did. Met some nice people who were in the same predicament. We laughed and talked to pass the time. It worked. Time to go!
Finally, I got on the plane and was barely strapped in when I felt extreme thirst and exhaustion! Boy was I tired! Fortunately, I didn't have to wait for that watered down ginger ale and peanuts! A brief 10 minute nap and we were landing around 11:30pm. I hurried up and made my way to baggage claims and Big U was waiting for me. Awww! He missed me! I could tell. In about 45 minutes I was back at home. We talked for a few minutes, read the mail and it was time for me to lay it down. I was glad to be home but missed DC already. Hmmm..... I think it has made it to the list of possible moving spots after graduation!
I felt the smile on my face...until I realized that I had a big test in less than 8 hours! Damn! I still needed to study! Back to life as usual. Boring yet lightly stressful. All I could do is think about my next vacation. I need another one quick!
Oh well........ Move over Farrah! GET READY ATLANTA! HERE I COME!!!!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
No one knows how excited I was to visit my oldest sister Anissa in Washington DC. Just a chance to get away was exciting, but to add to the fun, I would be landing on her 37th birthday. I asked my ex-boyfriend Ugunda to drop me off at the airport so I didn't have to pay for 4 days of parking. He graciously agreed. (as if he had a choice! I told ya'll I was cute! He' s still smitten!.....LOL....I have never used the word 'smitten' before! I crack myself up!)
Normally I have issues flying because of severe ear pain, but I decided I would wing it since it was only a 45-50 minute flight. My plan worked. Aside from a few pops, I was fine. I got off the plane secretly hoping a flock of men were awaiting my arrival... but I was disappointed. I got toothless grins and looked up and down by some men older than my father. No thanks. I had to immediately pee (as usual) once I got off the plane, even though I peed twice before I got on it! One day, I gonna bribe a doctor to insert a permanent catheter to alleviate all this 'toilet usage'.
Ok... fluff the hair, straighten the fit.. (short for 'outfit') and lick the lips. Now I'm ready to see my public. I make my way down to the baggage claim area and hear a familiar calling."Heeyyyy Diva!" I turn around to find my big sis braided up and looking cute! She's holding a sign that says "Diva Lolly". She used to call me Lolly when we were younger. It was cute. I immediately spot my ONE suitcase...(can you believe I only packed ONE suitcase?? No carry-on or nothing! Yeah... it weighed 62 pounds but still! ONE BAG!) and ran to retrieve it before it went back around the belt.
We made our way to the escalator and the car. Now.. I'm officially on vacation!!! WOO HOO!!!! I let out a scream, but neglected to put the windows down, so Anissa didn't appreciate this. Oh well!
First stop? Charm City Cakes. Every seen this show on the Food Network channel? You know.. Duff the cake guy? I wanted to see the shop since I had flown into Baltimore Airport and this is the city in which the show is based. So we ventured out to find it. Now I wanted to take pictures and had 2 cameras with me. A digital and a 35mm. The problem? The digital needed batteries and the 35mm needed film! I obviously wasn't prepared. So I asked her... "can you stop at the nearest Drug Store so I can get batteries, film or both?" No problem right? WRONG! WHERE WERE ALL THE DAMNED STORES??? We got lost for about 30 minutes when we ran into a 7-11 and they didn't have either. Nissa asked a man parked next to us for directons to a store or the Charm City Shop, and he told us there was a store on the next corner. I should have known better. It already seemed like we were in a weird ghetto area, but that store took the cake! (No pun intended!)
Let me just say...the store? We almost missed it. It was a dirty little side store but we went in anyway. She opened the door and I felt like we should have run in the other direction. She saw ice cream and I saw a dirty ass cat that looked anorexic sitting in the corner. I asked the guy behind the layers of glass (you heard me...layers) and asked him if they sold batteries. He asked.."what size?" I answered.."Triple A. I need a four pack if you have it." At that moment, the door opened and another patron came in and the nasty ass cat quickly ran out. The patron said "oh shit! I'm sorry!" and the nice man behind the layers said.."It's ok!" I paid for Anissa's ice cream (after all.... it was her birthday!) and the packs of batteries ($4.78 I think) and he handed me a small black plactic bag with my purchases in it. I decided to immediately give her the ice cream since it was SOOOOO HOT when I noticed something strange. Where were the pack of batteries I had just purchased? The bag was awfully light so I looked into the bag, didn't see them and turned around to say "excuse me..I didn't get the batteries." when I noticed something even stranger. I just asked Anissa to go to the car...before I died of laughter. We got outside and I showed her what looked like an empty bag to find out that I DID get the batteries. Where were they? At the bottom of the bag...NOT IN A PACKAGE!!! THIS NIGGA SOLD ME WHAT LOOKED LIKE 4 LONELY USED BATTERIES HE HAD SITTING AROUND!!!! I began laughing so hard I was almost crying! I was just saying...they better work! Fortunately they did! Great first impression of Baltimore huh? lol!
5-8 minutes later I noticed what looked like the Charm City building... and it was! Right smack in the hood diagonally from the Police Department. A filming crew was actually outside getting shots, so we parked and got out. We asked one of the flunkies to take our picture but he acted like he didn't want to, so Anissa took one of me in front of the building and I took a few of my own. Unfortunately Duff didn't come out, so we left after about 15 minutes.
Second stop was the Baltimore Harbor. NICE! Aquariums, restaurants, water, big boats..it was great. We looked around the shops and decided this was a good place for lunch. Now, since I've never been, we decided to eat at Hooters. I just wanted chicken folks. No interest in watching ladies trounce around with their tits and asses hanging out, but our waitress was nice and sat down to talk to us. Lots of men wishing they weren't married I guess. The table next to us was so busy looking at the show, they didn't realize we had received our order and was ready to leave and they hadn't received their order! Sad. So sad. The vagina is a powerful thang!!!! LOL!!
We left and were on out way back to the car when I saw the Chessy Dragon Paddle boats and decided I needed to get in one. $16 for a 1/2 hour. We only did it about 20 minutes. It was a big green floating dragon that you pedal like a bike. We both had pedals but I didn't want her to do it since her legs tend to bother her from time to time since she has MS. (KEEP THE PRAYERS GOING YA'LL! THERE'S A CURE OUT THERE SOMEWHERE!)
Anyway...again...we floated in this murky stinky dirty water for about 20 minutes. We had our fill. It was fun though. She was on the phone and I was trying not to run into other people. This was crazy but I was glad I did it!
Now it's time to make it to her apartment. First we need to stop at her grocery store to get...eggs or something. We run into a older man in the back of the store dancing to Gladys Knights "Midnight Train to Georgia" (this store's music was jammin!! You gotta love black folks!) He then held his hand out to Anissa to dance and she did. He busted a SPLIT straight to the ground and I yelled " OKKKKAAAAYYYY!!!!!" I felt like I was in the club!
Now, at the checkout, we are just waitng in line when we looked to the right to see the SAME DANCING MAN cashiering!!! We were like "WTF ARE YOU DOING BACK THERE DANCIN IF YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE UP HERE WORKING??" He just shrugged and laughed. It was hilarious!
Now Anissa had warned me saying she lived in the "lightweight hood" but I didn't think so. Lots of blacks but the whole city has a lot of US!!! Really cute apartment. It was time to deliver gifts to her, so I sang "Happy Birthday" and presented her with gifts. It was silly. We then decided we were PAST DUE for cocktails! So we made drinks and went out to her balcony to chit chat and tell sisterly secrets! Sorry... I can't share those, but ...WOW!!! That's all I'm saying about that!
After a few drinks and mosquito bites, we decided to get "re-cute" go to a late dinner since it was after 11pm. We went to a place called Jasper's which was excellent! I loved everything about it. The look, the menu and the type of people it had attracted. I was really impressed. I would love to own someplace like that one day! Back to her place to settle in for some rest. And boy did I need it!
Friday, July 25, 2008
I can't believe I woke up so early on my second day of vacation! I SUCK! It was like 7am and I was tying to get back to sleep. I gave up, and got up. So did she. She started cooking breakfast (eggs and sausage)and telling me what was on the agenda for the day. She told me that we were expected at a Pool Party and Crab Fest later that weekend and she was responsible for bringing deviled eggs, cole slaw and homemade crab sauce. I did the deviled eggs for her so we could get our day started.
We got dressed and decided against taking a bus to catch the train (which was right next door to the U.S. Census Bureau!). She drove instead so that we didn't have to wait too long in case we were late coming back. (We were expected to do Happy Hour at a club called H2O around 5pm) Catching the train was scary at first because we were casually walking, I was whistling, she was on the phone..when all of a sudden she yelled "RUN!!" So I did. Why? I had absolutely no idea! But as black folks... we don't ask questions until later! She later told me that if we didn't make that train we would have to wait 17 minutes for the next one. 17 MINUTES??? Whatever. We made it and I tried to act like I had done this a million times before so that I didn't look like a tourist. I think it kind of worked. I was causing quite a stir obviously due to my attire. I had on a Obama t-shirt that said CHANGE on it. EVERYONE LOVED IT!! I got sooo many stares and people saying "I like that shirt!" so, I felt like I was doing my part in trying to get him elected. Cool! "Obama in 08/09...It's about time!" Ya'll like that? I just made it up! Don't hate!
As soon as we got off the train, we ran into the Farmer's Market on the Department of Agriculture lawn. It was very nice. Again...folks loved the shirt! We walked down the street to the National African American Museum. Beautiful building! I even found some items from MY PEOPLE from Sierra Leone Limba tribe! I was excited. But best of all in this place?.... Wait for it......wait for it.... THE JIM HENSON MUSEUM ON THE BOTTOM FLOOR!!! I mean it had everything! Enclosed puppet replicas, old movies, and some of his first actual drawings etc. It was great and very interesting! I'm still trying to figure out why his stuff was in the National African American Museum. Was he secretly black?I wonder what his mama looked like. Whatever. I went to the gift shop and purchased an African dance DVD so I can get all ethnic on ya'll at the club!
We then went to the Smithsonian Castle to see the "American Treasures" exhibit. It was ok.... I guess. Back to the Farmer's Market so she could buy this squash that looked like a round soap blossom, and then back on the train to the next stop.
We were trying to find the National Aquarium, and found it eventually, but I think we walked 6 miles trying to find it in 98 degree heat and 100% humidity! (ok... it probably wasn't 6 miles, but... it was at least 2! It was hot!) The aquarium was in the basement of the Department of Commerce and was dark. Weird looking fish and they had an alligator feeding 10 minutes after we got there. Some of those things are still on my mind! Creepy!
We sat and rested for a few minutes (Hey Nis!..."Not You!" LOL!! Sorry.. inside joke.) and they we ventured back out in the heat to find the train home and some WATER!!! Dehydration was setting in fast! I was starting to see my life flashing before my "pretty brown eyes"! (Mint Condition follks! Get the CD's!) OH GOD!!!! HELP!!!
Help arrived about 20 minuted later in the form of a banana/pineapple smoothie. We made it to the Ronald Reagan building food court. HUGE! Anissa decided to eat a loaded baked potato and chicken wings...which she enjoyed thoroughly! This girl was hungry the entire time I was there! I'm surprised she's not a porker! Must be the meds making her have the munchies..ALL DAY LONG! Yeah...that's it! Am I hating? Absolutely! How is it I can probably count the calories I ate the ENTIRE trip and I still look like I'm bloated...from being in the damned womb from all that umbilical fluid?? Again... I suck!
We saw the Lincoln Monument, Capital Building, EPA Building, Customs and Borders building, Freedom Plaza (soldier monuments) but it was now time to catch our train back home. I enjoyed that ride. I think I like the train system! (although it can be expensive!)
Unfortunately, we were late getting back to her spot. It was after 4 and we were supposed to be at Happy Hour at 5. I needed time to get fabulous! I did the best I could in 45 minutes. I hate being rushed! Oh well... I was still sexy!
We made it there by 6 and had to pay $10 to park down the street. I guess this was "lucky"? So I was told. Nice club though. Nice size and they had free vittles and free wine until 7pm. I had my usual Jack Daniels and Coke for a mere $8. I wasn't shocked... just irritated by the PLASTIC GLASS I received for 8 bucks! Nissa and I settled into a couch by the door so we can see the people entering. We were expecting friends and family. My cousin Kim and her friend (Milen??..Sorry, I forgot her name) were next through the door. We all sat and chatted for all of 3 minutes before being accosted by a old man (we called him Deacon... cause he looked like he could be one!) flirting with all of us. His opening line to Anissa was "Do you work for Ebony magazine?" Yeah... that was it. He looked and me and tolds me I was sexy with bedroom eyes. Kim was sensuous dark chocolate and her friend received another stupid line. "Your eyes are as beautiful as the starts above!" And I responded..."Not the stars below? Just the ones above!" He said "Yeah!" Whatever. Came to find out his name was "Dancin' Buddy" and he was quoting those lines all over the club! He was kind enough to invite us to his HOTEL room for drinks since he was too CHEAP to purchase any at the club! LOSERS are all over the globe! I swear! LOL!
My cousin Tiffany popped up shortly after and we all went outside. STILL HOT!!! I couldn't stand it. Kim and I went back in to watch the steppers dance when my cousin Marlon showed up. YEA MORE FAMILY!!! So good to see everyone. Anissa's other friends Noni and Erica and another young lady (Adrienne maybe?? sorry... I was drinking) also came to party. Kim's friend decided to walk her out and I was alone watching drinks. Some DJ lady was broadcasting from the club and she asked who was NOT from the DC area and about 6 of us gave shouts out to our perspective cities. CLEVELAND!!! After that, she wanted folks to get out on the floor. Since I was watching drinks, I didn't go. She then called me out! "Cleveland! Why aren't you dancing??" I told her why, so she asked her husband to watch all of our drinks! LOL! So I proceeded to get my line dance on! Tiffany ended up behind me somehow and we got crazy for a bit. For the rest of the night... I was known as Cleveland by all the fellas. Too funny!
Kim and I ended up back on the couch talking for awhile when I was told by Erica that I was being summoned by Anissa. Back outside to the table in the still 90+ heat! On my way out there, I was asked by 3 gentlemen to dance. I said no to all, but the last freak was relentless!! I said.."ok..let's hurry up!" He was so close and all up in my face! Grinding on my leg, and behind, and back so hard, I had to push him off of me! AND HIS BREATH!!!! DAMN! My eyes are still watering! And I believe I'm missing a few eyebrow hairs! He just kept staring at me and singing in my ear... "...*murder she wrote, murder she wroooottttteee!!*..." Over and over while his eye or eyes(I couldnt tell which one was the good one!) were glued on me! YUCK!!! I had to cut that mess short! On ,my way off the dance floor, all I heard was "CLEEEEVELAND!!!!!" by a few brothas wanting to kick it. I just tossed up my hands and chopped it up with them for a minute. I saw folks waving in my direction so I made my way outside to see what was going on.
And there she was.... My sister. Drunk as all hell! Flirting with folks who didn't want to flirt. Talking to folks not talking to her. And running her mouth...TOO MUCH! Telling all her damned business! At first it was funny, cause I haven't seen her drunk in A LONG TIME but then I realized I was in trouble. SHE WAS MY RIDE! I DIDN'T KNOW WHERE I WAS! HOW WOULD I GET HER HOME!! She soon passed out..... in Tiffany's purse when she went to dance with a young man named Dennis. That's right! I turned around to talk to a guy and he was like.."Damn...is she ok?" I turned to find her head in Tiffany's purse and I gently lifted her head, saw she was breathing, and put it back in the purse. "Yeah... she's fine!" We talked for a few more minutes and then Tiff and Kim were back. Tiff seemed tipsy as well so I had to look to Kim for help. Marlon had left because he had a game to play at and now I was wishing he stayed. LOL!!!
After awhile, we figured out a plan for everyone to get home safely. Kim would go with Tiffany and I would follow Erica in Anissa's car back to Anissa's house. But first... we had to get her to the car! I grabbed one side of her and Tiff grabbed the other and away we went. This guy yelled out.."Cleveland...you gone???!!" I just said "Sorry baby! Maybe next time!"
Nissa's eyes were open, but that's just about it. We (Kim and I) sat her outside while Tiff and Erica went to locate their trucks. A staff guy said " Oh no...we can't have her out here like this!" I informed him I was waiting for the cars. Then an owner or something came and said "We're gonna need to get her off of our premises. Bad for business!" Now, I'm thinking....damn! What now?!! So I decided to use my feminine wiles and flirt with him until the cars came. It worked! LOL! He helped us load her in Erica's truck and the staff guy asked me "Can I go with you baby??" LOL! Yeah Nat.... you still got it!!
Erica drove me down to the car and we decided to leave Anissa where she was. I got out and began to follow behind her all the way home. WHEW!!! We made it! I don't think it was even 11pm! Not at all what I expected! We unloaded her and managed to get her upstairs to her apartment. She was barefoot now so it was a bit difficult. We dumped her in the bed and tried to give her some form of comfort. Took her bra off of her and that was it. I thanked Erica for her help and tried to give her $20 bucks for the waste of her gas but she wouldn't take it. She was really cool about the whole thing. She left, I got undressed and watched TV until I fell asleep. Oh Lord! What a day!!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
After a "interesting" night out on the town last night, and new back pains from sleeping on Anissa's couch, (I slept in her bed the night before, but I was NOT sleeping with her last night in case she got sick. And she did!) I think we both woke up earlier than expected. All that was on the agenda for the day way the Pool Party and Crab Fest. So we had until 3pm to hang around and rest. I did mention to her that I had never gotten any souvenirs or many pictures so we decided to go shopping. After getting ready though, Erica stopped by to check on her and give her a birthday gift. She hung around for a bit and then Anissa and I went shopping for...whatever we could find actually.
We went to cousin's Marlon's neighborhood and she showed me where they lived. We stopped at Tiffany's old house (which is being turned into a rental property now) and she wasn't there but her neighbor was (some guy..named "D" something who is also a friend of Anissa's...you know what I mean?? LOL!) so I sat in the car after a brief introduction and waited for them to talk, then we went around the corner to Marlon's house. He and Kim were home but we didn't stay long. We had shopping to do!
We made it over to a shopping center and went to one of my favorite places... PAYLESS! That's right! Anissa found 2 pairs and I bought a cute pair of flip flops to run around in for just a couple of bucks. Stopped at Wendy's for a snack and back to her house to change for the Pool Party. She took me downtown DC and we tried to find a spot to park and look for souveniers, but no such luck. So I got out while she circled and circled and circled while watiing for me to find a few momentos.
I struck paydirt with a cheap vendor on a corner under a tent. A nice Asian woman standing there looking bored so I walked up to see what she had to sell. I said "hello" and she replied the same. I somehow broke my sunglasses at that moment, but oddly enough she had some to sell. I asked how much they were and she said $5 each. I found two pair I liked as well as 2 cute t-shirts and 4 keychains. The lady asked (in her accent).."Where you from?" I told her "Cleveland" She grinned and said "I can tell you not from heah. You too nice!" I laughed and she proceeded to take a bottle of Dasani and stuck a toothbrush in it and began... BRUSHING HER TEETH!!! I just watched and looked around to see if anyone else was watching this mess! She said .."People here..not nice." And her face was dead serious! " I replied "well, it's easier to be nice than to be mean." She must of liked that, because she stopped brushing her teeth and said "Cleveland huh? I may move!" Her facial expressions were priceless! Then Nissa called to see if I was done and I told her I was ready to pay. She only charged me $28 for the stuff and gave me some free 'Obama for President' magnets. I ran to catch Anissa so she didn't have to circle again or get a ticket.
Now it was time to find our way to the Pool Party. We passed a few historical spots and I took some pictures while looking for the correct highway. In order to get where we were going, we had to cross over into Alexandria VA and I found it hilarious how they have 3 different states within short distances of each other. Maryland, DC and VA. I went on a bigger vacation than I thought! After feeling lost for awhile, we got on the right track. She went past, what is going to be the brand new Washington Harbor. It's already looking good so once it's completely finished it's going to be a nice place to kick it!
Well... now we are really late for the pool party! It was from 3pm-6pm but it was 5pm by the time we got there! We stayed long enough to see the host family's BEAUTIFUL home and of course.. we ate! Not alot since we were expected at the Crab Fest at 7pm. Anissa had her bathing suit on, but she choose not to go in the water. She did tell the host family that she would be back though! It was a beautiful home. They should be proud. I love to see black people making it and doing Big Thangs! Gives me hope! lol!
We soon left and got back on the highway for a quick change of clothes and went over to the Crab Fest. We grabbed the cole slaw and crab sauce and a few old t-shirts to put on so that we didn't get crab juice on our clothes, and then we were off. Anissa's friends kept calling asking what was taking so long. I asked..."wow. They are in that much of a hurry for some cole slaw?" We were making great time until... BAM! Traffic stopped! And I do mean completely stopped! We were almost there! We saw like 2 fire trucks and 4 ambulance trucks so we knew that it wasn't good...whatever it was. A few people got out of their cars and tried to see what was going on, so of course... I did the same. I walked around the highway (while she stayed in the car) and talked to a few folks, flirted with a group of bikers and then started making my way back to the car. At one point I looked over the side walls to see what was down there and could have sworn I saw a FOOT! Not connected to anything...just a foot! So...I ran back to the car. Anissa thought that was funny! LOL! Now traffic began moving and again... we were off. More calls from her friends and she assured them the crab sauce was just minutes away! ( I guess that was a necessary staple to eating whole Crabs!)
We made it and I noticed there was another party right next door! I guess it was an engagement party. We pulled up to ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL HOUSE! Wow! We were greeted at the door by some wonderful ladies! Anissa had talked about them since I got there. And she was right! They were all soooooo nice and funny! They hugged and took me in as if I was a part of their family. I loved them! There was about 10-13 of us so I don't want to forget any names so I won't mention any of them but... these ladies have it going on!! Great jobs, great lives and great friends and family. What's better than this? The ladies were all older than us, (Anissa is the youngest of their group) but I would kick it with them anytime! It turned out that this was also a surprise party for Anissa. They gave her a few cards and we all sang, danced (they crashed the next door party to line dance), drank and ate cake...as well as cole slaw, ribs, corn, crabs, etc. It was very nice.
Ok... now let me tell ya'll about the whole 'crab' thing. Wow! These folks are SERIOUS! They had purchases a bushel (everyone chipped in), coved the tables with newspapers and dug in to whole crabs. I was nervous since I had all these eyes on me... the ladies and the crabs! I've never eaten any more than crab legs, so this was a new experience. There was a techniques of what to eat, what NOT to eat etc, so I was trying to pay attention. They did give me a few and I sat down to learn. ALOT of work for A LITTLE crab! But I still had a ball!
We all talked and laughed and then we made a few toasts and I thanked the ladies for treating me so well and always being there for Anissa. They said "We've got her back!" and I totally believe them! Mom mom should feel better knowing Anissa has such a great group of ladies on her side. I did!
Now it was getting late and we helped clean up and began to head home. Another busy fun packed day was under our belts. She went straight to bed and I stayed up to watch a few of my shows... then I drifted off to sleep.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Time for church! We got up and got dressed fast so we wouldn't be late for the 8am service at Mt Enon. This is Anissa's church. Nice people and a great Men's chorus. Church was pretty big. Her pastor was in the middle of a marriage series about "Givin Suga". It was nice.
After service we went to Sunday School class. We went to the class for women. It was awesome! We talked about relationships, sex and what God want for us and from us. The funniest part was when we were in the middle of listening when the young Reverend woman running the group stopped the class to ask... "Are you two related?" I looked us to see who she was talking to and it was US!!! LOL!! We just said said "yes, we're sisters." Everyone was turned around staring at us and a few people asked if we were twins! LOL! It was hilarious! After about an hour or so, it was time to leave. It was almost 11am and we had reservations for a Champagne Brunch. FABULOUS!!!! Mimosas non-stop!! I loved it! Food was great with a lovely atmosphere. I could do that every week! I loved the fact that black folks have so many classy places to experience here.
After stuffing ourselves as much as possible, we were on our way to see another cousin Dwight (a.k.a. "Doc") as well as Tiffany's brand new house. It was so good to Dwight and his wife Vicky and their two girls. So cute! Again... ANOTHER FABULOUS HOUSE!!!!
Dwight gave me a tour and we talked for a bit about a lot of stuff. I was impressed as hell but he said..."This is nothing! Wait until you see Tiffany's!" Again we were on a tight schedule so we didn't stay too long. Dwight told me I should think about moving down there and I told him I was. I kidded about working for him so I could get some of that "Dwight money" and we laughed but he did tell me to send him my resume. TRUST! IT WILL BE SENT!! We said our goodbyes and moved to the next stop.
Got lost for a few minutes but Tiff's new house was not far from Dwight's. It started raining as soon as we pulled up to her mini mansion (YES...this is what I'm calling it! If you saw it, you would agree!) so I couldn't take a picture of the outside of the house. We went in and I got my first glance of my new little cousin Kennedy. Tiff's daughter who is almost 2 years old now. A little cutie! But not shocking since the entire Hunter clan is absolutely gorgeous! It's a fact. Don't Hate! Attempt to emmulate! LOL! Again... I JUST MADE THAT UP! Boy am I talented!
Anyway... she gave me the grand tour. It was indeed grand. But all this space for 3 little people? Like 4 or 5 bathrooms, 4-5 bedrooms... laundry room, Kennedy's play room, big kitchen, formal and informal dining and living room areas, third floor recreation/party/family room..and a recording studio on the way! WOW! I definitely wouldn't want to make this payment! lol! She can have it! Definitely 'baller' money! "One day Diva....one day!" (sorry... I talk to myself somtimes!) It was definitely too much house for me, but Dwights's? I'll take it! LOL! I could definitely make that one happen! YA'LL GO!!! MAKE THAT MONEY HONEY!!!
I took a roll of pictures of her crib in case I could use something in one of my PR Brochures one day, and of course... to show everbody! My only word to describe it... "Opulent!"
We had to go after about 45 minutes because it was time to go back home to Cleveland soon. We made our way back to Anissa's crib so that I could re-pack and prepare to go. Unfortunately on the way back, more stopped traffic. Damn! What's up with this city?? It's Sunday! She tried to take a detour but still got stopped! We finally found out why. Bush was back in town or some other dignitaries were in the area. I saw a number of secret service people. Held up traffic for like a 3-5 mile radius! Crazy! She was unsure of where to go, but things started to look familiar to her. I heard some rumbling outside so I looked up to see a huge airplane landing CLOSE! So close I could read the name. I think it was Airforce One! Very impressive aircraft. Finally we made it to our destination. Back to her spot.
After re-packing, I fell asleep while Anissa re-warmed the crabs that were left from the night before and devoured them. LOL. I had my fill of those! Too many rules!
She woke me at 6pm and said... "It's time to go." Awww...... vacation was officially over.
We prayed for no traffic and God must have heard our prayers. A smooth ride. After arriving at the airport and waiting in a line so long I was afraid I was gonna miss my flight, (my flight was at 8:10 and it was now 7:45pm) I finally checked in and it was time to say "Goodbye" to my big sister. The part of the trip that I was dreading the most. We hugged and as I was going through the ropes, the tears came. I knew it! I absolutely hate saying farewell to my siblings. She must have knew because she handed me tissue. (Damn! I'm crying right now as I type this! Ahhh!!!!! I hate that!) I had to bring out the big glasses so I didn't look soft! I made it to Gate A and something told me to look at the Arrivals/Departure schedule. WTF??? Why was my flight moved to 10:10pm?? I asked one of the workers what happened, then I called o tell Anissa, my mom and Ugunda (he was picking me up) the bad news.
I tried to make the best of my time and went shopping. After looking again at the schedule, it was moved again to 10:40!!!! WHAT!!! Now, I'm getting irritated. But nothing I could do but sit, read and wait. So that's what I did. Met some nice people who were in the same predicament. We laughed and talked to pass the time. It worked. Time to go!
Finally, I got on the plane and was barely strapped in when I felt extreme thirst and exhaustion! Boy was I tired! Fortunately, I didn't have to wait for that watered down ginger ale and peanuts! A brief 10 minute nap and we were landing around 11:30pm. I hurried up and made my way to baggage claims and Big U was waiting for me. Awww! He missed me! I could tell. In about 45 minutes I was back at home. We talked for a few minutes, read the mail and it was time for me to lay it down. I was glad to be home but missed DC already. Hmmm..... I think it has made it to the list of possible moving spots after graduation!
I felt the smile on my face...until I realized that I had a big test in less than 8 hours! Damn! I still needed to study! Back to life as usual. Boring yet lightly stressful. All I could do is think about my next vacation. I need another one quick!
Oh well........ Move over Farrah! GET READY ATLANTA! HERE I COME!!!!
Leave a Comment
FARRAH on
|
LOL @ Smitten Glad you were entertained. Well deserved vacation. U know black cities are always entertaining (so know before you come that ATL is pure comedy). I'll be waiting for you!!! Hopefully you dont expect the same royal treatment that you received there, from these locals...cause it wont happen. But Im sure you'll have something else to talk/laugh about. Shout out to Nis for being such a good hostess. (and waiting for your visit too, ma'am!) And hell, shout out to me for supplying you with the Obama shirt that brought the diva more fans! U BETTA WORK IT NAT! CLLEEEVELLLAAAAANNNDDDDD!!!!!!!!!! |
