I'm Back!

I've been gone for a minute now I am BACK!!! I checked my counter and was surprised to see that I still have a lot of people who actually check my blog. I get visits from all over the world. And I get weekly visits from viewers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Rehoboth Beach, DE, Maryland, New York, etc. Therefore, I figured it was time to post an update on what is new in Shana's world.

Most of my reader's know that I have experienced hardships lately. But through everything you learn and you grow from it. My daughter, Weslee Olivia, made me a better person in her short time on this earth. I have grown as a woman and matured as a person. I am so grateful that God blessed me with such a gift. I know my beautiful baby is looking down on us from heaven.

I must acknowledge all of those people who have been there for my family with phone calls, visits, emails, texts, and random acts of kindness. These people were truly put into our life for a reason and a purpose and we am so incredibly grateful. I really don't want to forget anyone, so if I do, blame my head and not my heart. But special thank you to my girls--Meron, Dena, Kim, Nina, Tenesha, Wura, Courtney, Cheri, Mia, Cacia, Ceanethia, Laquisha, Quintina, Marcel, Maurene--You guys travelled all over the eastern seaboard to be by my side.....I love you forever. Huge Thank You to Francine and Micah Edwards and your family. Words cannot express what your kindness means to me. I am forever grateful to you all and cannot imagine my life without meeting you....I love you! And big thank you to the Wilmington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and Connections Community Church for your continued outreach and concern. And Thank You to a host of neighbors, friends, pageant friends, etc who supported me as well!

So what have I been up to? Well.....took a couple months off from work to regroup, but went back early this year. I thought it would be challenging. But the reception I received when I returned was just what I needed.

I also poured myself into helping my Local Miss America Titleholders achieve their pageant dreams. Last month, my teen winner, Tanee DeCosta, placed 3rd Runner up in Delaware's Outstanding Teen. She was a 1st time competitor and did an amazing job. I was so proud. In such a short time, she grew so much. Her platform was very personal to her--Anti-Bullying! Big things ahead for Tanee! Next up....Miss DE in June! Expect Atlantic Coast Pageants to have another great showing through Becky Albini. She is working extremely hard and will no doubt be a shining star in her competition as well.

Tanee in Gown

Reflections

By now, most know that my Angel went to the Lord. Her stay on earth was brief. However, the mark that she has made on the world is everlasting. I will not detail my every thought, feeling, and emotion regarding my baby on this blog post. Everything that I feel has already been said, written, thought, and prayed and is very personal between myself and my child. And know that there will never be a moment that I am not thinking of her and thankful for the honor of being her mother. I have no idea why this happened. But I trust in God that there is a reason and a purpose.

In the aftermath of her loss, I was so blessed to have a solid “sisterhood” of women to step up and show me how much they cared and loved my family. I will however say that it was disappointing that my pageant sisterhood did not do the same. On the day of my baby’s passing, I was supposed to give up the title of “Mrs. Delaware 2011”. Grief-stricken, I was unable to attend the event. I say that this “sisterhood” let me down because not only did a very small percentage of the "sisterhood" reach out with words of condolences, but the Mrs. Delaware Organization/Directorship has yet to reach out as well. No cards. No texts. No emails. Nothing. As wives and mothers, I honestly expected some form of communication from an organization that prides itself on being a family.

My year as Mrs. Delaware was very special and I truly used the year to make a small difference in any way that I could. I was not the type of Mrs. Delaware that aspired to attend Galas and Parades and enjoy the local celebrity status. While I did a limited number of those things, they were not the events and causes that I personally championed and set up for myself. I was the kind of Mrs. DE that got my hands dirty. My husband often poked fun at the fact that he would have to force me to put on my crown (some appearances, it just wasn’t appropriate) and to slow down long enough to merely take a picture. One of my Mrs. America pageant sisters put things in perspective when she expressed to me that my service and dedication to my platform was widely known across the country and that I was a “highly visible” Mrs. DE. I didn’t expect or care if people noticed because my work was for a higher purpose. But it did in a way make me feel good that my outreach efforts were admired.

Unfortunately, the Mrs. Delaware Organization was never an advocate of supporting my reign. In fact, the organization made it very clear from the beginning that they would not support me and did not desire me as their queen. I have no idea why this is the case. Because any personal issues were never brought to my attention like professionals do. Instead, I received retaliation with no basis. No need to go into every detail and tell every story of all of the things that exemplified the organization’s disdain, because in spite of the organization, I had an AMAZING time and am still to this day humbled and grateful for the experience! As a professional, no matter what is going on behind the scenes, you do your job and you do it well. But as a person, no one was going to stop me from enjoying every moment of something that I rightfully earned.

My farewell video says that this year was the “best year of my life”. And it was. But my last day as Mrs. Delaware will always be the darkest day of my life. The hardest thing most women will ever endure is the loss of a child. Despite personal feelings towards me, a simple “I’m sorry this happened” would have sufficed. Instead……silence! As a mother for only 12 hours, I can’t understand how another mother could be so dismissive. But in my month of reflection, I can truly see that some people do not have the ability to step outside of themselves and truly care for those around them. Character isn’t defined by how you treat your friends. But it is how you treat your enemies when they are down as well.

I am blessed to have learned some major life lessons through this loss. So many people have exceeded all expectations and been there for my family in ways that are so humbling. And some people have not lived up to expectations. Just as I had so many plans for my baby here on earth, I learned that life can defy your plans and expectations. I always held the belief that all people are good. I still believe that. But now I see that some aren’t at a stage in life where they are capable in showing their goodness and grace no matter what. All I can do is pray for them and be thankful that I am constantly growing and learning through all of life’s experiences.

My blog has always been a way of me sharing my so-called “random thoughts” and this is one of them. Some may wonder, why not just call the Organization and tell them how you feel. But in my eyes, why even dignify them with a phone call? I am purging all ill-feelings and all malice through my written word. Harboring these feelings keeps you emotionally stagnant and is not a God-like way to live. As I publish this post, all of these feelings are released from me and I can move on and continue to be the best professional, wife, mother, friend, advocate, volunteer, and former Mrs. Delaware that I can be!

I wish you all Love and Light!

Baby On Board!!

For all of you who don't know, Geoff and I are expecting our first baby in early March 2012! We just found out this week that we are having a baby girl!!! YAY!!! So watch out world, another "Shana" is in the works. I guess I was a little off in my July "Circle of Life" post. I guess the new life that was coming into our lives was our own little baby.

So far the pregnancy has been uneventful but full of emotion. I feel Excited....Nervous....Overwhelmed...Anxious.....Elated....and so Blessed! Our baby girl is truly a precious gift and I cannot wait to meet her. We are starting to prep for her arrival and visited Babies R Us for the first time as parents today. My previous trips to the megastore have never lasted longer than 8 minutes. Grab the first thing I see on the registry and high tail it out of the store. But today was different! We spent about 45 minutes analyzing cribs and cribs alone, 3o minutes in bassinets, 15 minutes in the comfy chair section, and about 20 minutes in regular gear. I think the visit to the store really showed us both how this little lady is going to change our life in so many ways.

Keep you posted on my little diva!

What do you get out of all this?

I can't tell you how many times people ask me that on a daily basis. When they inquire, they are usually referring to some sort of monetary or tangible prize. The answer always comes easy. Quite frankly, I get an opportunity to do something big! I know that is clique. Pageant girls want to change the world!! I get it! While that would be great, it is probably a bit unrealistic. But putting a smile on someone's face, encouraging a child of their potential, or just lending a helping hand can go along way towards changing the world. Every appearance and every organization has touched me so deeply. Every email, Facebook comment, and warm wishes keep me motivated to continue on and work harder. And every single time I see how proud my husband is of me, I melt!!! This is my opportunity....to work with my family, showcase our love, and use that to HELP to change the world. We have to start somewhere.....why not in Delaware?? The prizes....they are tools of the trade. The real prize is priceless! Like on New Year's Eve when I met a teenage girl who recognized me from the paper. It was up on the bulletin board at her school and she told me that she swiped it. LOL! When I shook her hand, she said "I will never wash my hand again....I just shook hands with Mrs. Delaware". I will remember that moment for the rest of my life! That showed me the true influence the crown can bring. And those are the moments that are the best gifts ever.

OO-OOP!!!

January 13, 2011 marked 98 years of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Founded on the campus of Howard University, Delta Sigma Theta is committed to Scholarship, Service, and Sisterhood. And believe me, DST has brought all of that and more to my life. I joined in 1999 with the beautiful women pictured here. Meron, Dena, and Kim are my line sisters and the best friends anyone could ever have. Because of women like them, I am challenged to do more and to be more! Thousands of women across the world are members of this elite organization and wear Crimson and Cream with distinction. But when I think about what DST has brought to me, I think of my sisters!!! Happy Founders Day to all of the Devastating Divas of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc!!!!!

The New 20!

Today, I had a milestone birthday! And so far, 30 is everything I expected it to be....FABULOUS!!! It started out with a killer Crossfit workout and had friends over to help with Miss Delaware and Miss Delaware Teen Prep for Emily and Tierra. The night before my birthday, I had a great dinner with a fabulous group of people.

Thank you everyone who made this birthday special! Geoff....wow....I am so blessed. Everyday is like my birthday. I am truly in the arms of an angel. All of my friends who celebrated with me...Hilary, Kevin, Angie, Tierra....thank you!!! You helped make my 30th even more fabulous. All of the family and friends who sent messages, texts, called, brought gifts....thank you! I am so overwhelmed at the outpouring of love. And for all of the surprise gifts from the postman and florist....woo-hoo!!!! And I look forward to celebrating even more tomorrow. Spending the day with the uber-fabulous Laquisha Hall!

I really believe 2011 will be my best year. I am so thankful for all that I have and the wonderful people supporting me in all of my endeavors. I am also thankful for all of the experiences that have made me the woman that I am. I am grateful for the good, the bad, and the ugly. Because of these experiences, I can look in the mirror at the age of 30 and say "I am so proud of the person that I am and all that I will be".

Backstage Pass to the Young And The Restless! I can't

believe I am going to Genoa City! Thanks Geoff!

Dream come true!

Pre-Bday Dinner!

After losing my eyelashes from crying!

Your Love Is King

Your love is king,

crown you in my heart.

Your love is king,

never need to part.

Your kisses ring,

round and round and round my head.

Touching the very part of me.

It's making my soul sing.

Tearing the very heart of me.

I'm crying out for more.

Today is my 3rd wedding Anniversary with the best man I have ever known. People always say in movies "you complete me". And when I listen to that, I always think "shouldn't you already be whole". I pondered this for months before our wedding. And when I really thought about it, Geoff doesn't complete me, but is his the very best part of me. He is that part of me that is pure, loving, kind, purposeful, open, joyous, etc. His light and his goodness awakens those things in me and I love him for that. For some, life ends at marriage! But for me, marrying Geoff was when I truly started to live. He encourages me! Relishes in my successes! And is my soft place to fall when things get me down. I only hope that I am all of those things to him.

In my vows, I said "I hope people will look at our relationship and feel comforted in possibilities!" I never thought I would deserve all of this. But God has blessed me with my perfect match. It can happen for anybody!

This morning Geoff gave me tickets to a Sade concert. Lyrics are above from one of our favorite songs. He is truly my King and makes me feel like a Queen every single day!

First Anniversary at NINETEEN in Philadelphia

Second Anniversary--Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Best Gifts I Ever Received!

Each Holiday Season, we all scramble to find the latest and greatest for our family and friends. We like to see their eyes light up! We like to feel as though our gift brought someone great joy. And truly, that is what the Holidays are all about....Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ through giving to others. But those gifts only need to come from the heart. It doesn't need to be expensive. It actually can be free! It can be time, encouragement, thought, etc. I heard a quote recently on one of my favorite shows, The Bold and the Beautiful (yes....I am a soap junkie). Stephanie Forrester, the Matriarch of the show, simply said "giving is living". It is such a simply statement, but it has so much meaning. Showing kindness, love, and tenderness to others is essential to living a fulfilling life. And when you receive that gift from others, you are more apt to pay it forward.

This Holiday season, I am reflecting on all of the wonderful gifts that I have received over the years. First and foremost, the unconditional love and support of my husband. Every morning I am greeted with a smile, breakfast, the dogs fed, and the car started. And honestly, some mornings I wake up on the wrong side of the bed and don't deserve it. But he does it anyway. I am blessed to have a man that let's me fly and relishes in my individuality. Secondly, the kindness of friends and family. I remember an issue arising many years ago when I was purchasing my very first home at the age of 24. At the last minute, closing costs shot up well beyond my budget. While venting to a dear friend, who was in the process of planning her wedding, she said "what's your account number" and loaned me the money without a second thought. This act was selfless and is still so touching to me. And lastly, my Late Aunt Sylvia travelled by bus to several thrift stores across Virginia and presented me with every pair of size 11 women's shoes she could find. She even purchased me a clear pair to wear in pageants. Brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it! While I may not have even worn all the shoes, the care and thought makes this one of my all time favorite gifts.

So this Christmas Eve, I'm not running around from store to store. I'm spending it with my little family....Geoff, Passion, Winston, and Lucy! We are going to spend Christmas Morning making Breakfast and watching movies. We will spend Christmas Day giving back to our community. And we will spend Christmas evening having a small dinner with friends.

Merry Christmas from the Williams Family!!

November 10th!

November 10th, 2010 was a a bitter sweet day for me. First, I was super duper busy! I travelled down to the beach area. Had breakfast, lunch, and dinner with docs and didn't get home until very late. I also worked with a potential new hire as part of her interview process with my company. But enough about work, 1 year ago yesterday, my Aunt Sylvia passed away. She was an amazing source of encouragement and love in my life and always told me that I was special. I miss her unconditional support, phone calls, long talks, visits....just everything. But I know that I am blessed beyond measure to have a feisty, no-nonsense woman looking out for me today. November 10th also marks 6 years that Geoffrey and I have been together. We didn't get to celebrate because of my schedule. However, Geoff gives me anniversary gifts everyday. It's those little things that matter most. The fact that he brings me oatmeal every morning in bed and allows me to sleep in. The way he ensures I have a full tank of gas before I head to work. The way he remembers to charge my work computer every single night. I'm truly blessed.

Growing up, I was always somehow different that other people. The way I approached life and situations was always a bit unique. I also looked different than others. Taller than most, and sometimes awkward. My Aunt Sylvia always instilled in me to be EXACTLY who I am....no matter what....and to never, ever apologize for being unique. She gave me confidence! Geoffrey, on the other hand, helped me to love the person that I am in ways that I never imagined. He showed me that I am truly deserving of all of life's blessings and for his love. In life, we have opportunities to change other's lives and we often don't realize that we have that power. It just so happens that November 10th is a very significant day that surrounds 2 people who changed my life in 2 different ways. I hope that I did the day proud and changed the life of someone else!

Atlanta Housewives!

I am a Real Housewives Fanatic! And my favorite group of them all would have to be the ATL. I was recently asked which Housewife I would be out of all of the ATL housewives. However, the extreme personalities of these women make it impossible to just choose one. I consider myself to be more of a combination of them all.

First, Phaedra....she calls herself a Southern Belle and is also an attorney. I can definitely relate to the ladylike and demure qualities that Phaedra attempts to show. I can also relate to her drive and determination to succeed. However, I cannot relate that that baby shower...a mess!

Second, Nene....Nene is the type of friend everyone needs to have because she will always be honest with you. I pride myself on that very quality. If your friends ask your opinion, it is your duty to tell the truth and to be direct. But like Nene, I can be a little too honest at times. I have learned quite a bit of tact over the years. She still needs to work on that. Nene is also an organizer. In a group setting, her personality is unifying and I find myself taking on a similar role in groups.

Next, Sheree....She has over the top confidence and is her own biggest fan. While I am more humble than Sheree, I do truly believe in myself. If I don't believe in myself, others will not either. And who can forget "Who Gon' Check Me Boo"? I know I can't. Sheree never allows people to walk over her and neither do I. Especially in business. No matter the circumstance, I always remain assertive.

Up next is Kim! Wow....what can I say about Kim? She really tries her best to stand out in a crowd. For me, I've always been taller than most people so standing out wasn't an option. Instead of running from it, I embraced my uniqueness and attempt to stand out even more. I may be the girl in a leopard pencil skirt while everyone else is wearing a black suit. I honestly enjoy the attention that being different attracts. Once I have your attention, you have the opportunity to see the person I am on the inside and that is important me!

And Lastly, Kandi! I play her song "Fly Above" on my IPOD whenever I need motivation. Kandi never seems to allow the female drama to affect her and always flies above it. Like Kandi, I loathe drama and pettiness and never allow it to take my energy. I simply remove myself from negative situations and don't associate with any drama. She is also very helpful. She elevated "Tardy for the Party" for Kim and was not compensated for that work. More importantly, she is willing to help her on future projects. And that's me! When I friend is in need I will do anything I can to help them. However, neither myself or Kandi will allow ourselves to be used.

I don't know much about Cynthia yet, so I can't relate to her at the moment. I'm hoping to see more from her this season. So far she seems like a beautiful, classy lady and a wonderful addition to the cast.

So which Real Housewife are you?

What is Love?

Love is patient, Love is kind,

It does not envy, it does not boast,

It is not proud, It is not rude,

It is not self-seeking,

It is not easily angered,

It keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil,

but rejoices with the truth.

Love always protects, always trusts,

always hopes, always perseveres.

Love bears all things, believes all things,

hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never ends.

L o v e N e v e r F a i l s.

Corinthians 13 : 4 - 8

Yesterday, Geoff and I attended the wedding of Alyson Golkin and Ryan Mang. Alyson and I competed together in Miss NJ USA in 2005 and were both in the Top 5. She was the sweetest and kindest girl at the pageant. And out of 145 contestants, she and I became fast friends. Her wedding was absolutely beautiful and Alyson was a stunning bride who partied the night away (in 6 inch heels I might add)!

The Bible verses above were read at the wedding. Of course I have heard them 1000 times before. But yesterday it took on a renewed meaning. I'm not that type of woman who pretends that my marriage is perfect and that we never argue or bicker. Because we do! But that's life. And on the way to the wedding, I was in a foul mood. Geoff was late (as always) and I can be a bit OCD when it comes to my schedule. When I heard the words "it is not easily angered, it keeps no records of wrongs", I thought about our car ride to NJ. Yeah, Geoff was late....again! But I got far more upset than I should have over being 10 minutes late to a wedding. Not only that, I reminded him of ALL the other times that he caused us to be late. And at the end of the day, my reaction was worse than his offense. When you are married, you must learn to work with the person that they are, as they are. And if you know Geoff, you will know that he is an amazingly kind, thoughtful, and selfless person. To me, that's more important than being timely! So the next time Geoff is late, I will remember the verses above and try not to be easily angered.

We ended up having a fan-ta-bu-lous time at the wedding! And it was great seeing Aly! I am sure Aly and Ryan will have a beautiful life together. They are truly made for each other.

First Day of School

Man...looking at all of these cute kids heading to school makes me long for the day when I get to post my own. My favorite this year is this little heartbreaker. He is the cutie pie son of one of me besties. Isn't auntie shana's nephew a handsome devil?

Please keep posting the pics because they really make me smile. I have a killer work week this week. And little things like this put things into perspective. Life isn't about that next sale. It's about balance, family, and moments. And for me, the joy of seeing a small child just starting out on a this journey towards his or her life path is so heartwarming. Who knows what this cutie pie will be in life? I just want him to always have that smile, that joy, and that love for life! Auntie Loves You!!!!

VMAs!

Now I know what I want to be for Halloween! Nicki Minaj! I just need a pink wig, a bright unitard, and super duper padded panties to achieve the entire look. The VMAs this year were entirely lack luster. I feel as though we are starving for true artists who put talent before making a splash. For example, I love Lady Gaga! But I do believe that much of this persona is just an act to illicit attention and shock value. But she is an amazing talent. I would love to see that talent highlighted more than her image. And apparently, Nicki Minaj was a hardcore female rapper who actually had something to say at one point. But just like most artists, her true essence has been flipped and she has morphed into some barbie cartoonish character.

Now....on to WillIam. Apparently he dawned "blackface" in his performance with Nicki Minaj. This caused a lot of Twitter uproar. To understand the reasons behind this uproar, you must understand the history behind blackface. It began as a form of mocking african americans and portrayed us as "coons", ignorant, etc. White performers were the first to wear the disguise. However, in later minstrel shows, african americans themselves performed in blackface and some were not allowed to perform without it. It is a sensitive topic that elicits criticism from many. WillIam said that the naysayers should "let it go" and to leave the past in the past. But when I think of the historical connotations behind the practice, I understand how it is impossible for many to just let it go. The origin of blackface is intended to mock and make fun of african american culture. Granted, I am sure WillIam was doing it for fashion and he did not mean any harm. But he should have been more cognisant of the decision. As African Americans, we do and say so many things (like certain words) that may cause others to think that certain practices are socially acceptable for everyone. We have to be the example! While I wish WillIam had made a better decision, his actions have opened the doors for discussions about blackface to take place. Maybe learning about it will enlighten those that think it is ok.

The City!

This weekend we celebrated Geoff's 33rd Birthday in Style! We drove up to NYC. Stayed in the Sofitel Hotel. Went to a Lion King Matinee (AMAZING!). Had a Fantabulous Dinner with Mari and Chris at Delfrisco's--my new favorite restaurant! Mucho Dinero, but ridiculously yummy! I am so glad there is another location in Philadelphia. After dinner we went to Caroline's on Broadway and saw an Eddie Griffin stand up show. While I love my life, I miss "the city"! Eddie Griffin said that New York City is the only place that you can truly call "The City". Other places may have a metropolitan area and they can be referred to as "A City". But NYC can solely claim the title of "The City". Anyhoo, I miss that environment! It is so invigorating and energizing. Last night, I felt young, empowered and ready to take on the world. I felt like I felt when I was fresh out of college. While I lived in North Jersey, and not exactly in "the city", being 15 minutes away wasn't too bad. Coming from Virginia, NYC was my land of opportunity. Living in that area molded me into such a confident, self-assured, and exposed person. Who knows what the future holds. Maybe "the city" is in our future! But right now, the market is in shambles so the Williams Family is staying put! But we will be visiting more often.

The Girl Fight--The New Video Vixens

While driving home through Wilmington (minding my own business), I witnessed the most horrible act of teen violence that I had ever seen in my life. I see 2 girls fighting in the middle of the road, others about to join in and gang up on 1 girl, and a host of witnesses egging it on and taping it with their camera phones. In situations like this, I can't in good conscience walk away. I pulled my car up very closely to the fighting girls, beeped my horn, and screamed. Eventually, they were distracted enough to break for a second. I yelled "get in" to the young girl getting beat up. She jumped in my car and we drove away while others were shouting "i'm gonna get you worse next time".

Unfortunately, incidences like this are very common. I personally feel that taping the fight and posting it on youtube is almost worst than getting beaten. The aim is to humiliate to the ultimate degree. Furthermore, it seems that when camera phones are brought out, the fights become more brazen. It's as if the participants feel compelled to put on a good show. Quality YouTube Entertainment equals bragging rights.

I could never stand idle as a friend is getting beat up and encourage this behavior. When I was younger, we tried at all costs to prevent fights. I guess things are different now. But I still don't get it! Who is to blame? Is it the parents? Often they are in shock when they see their children performing for the cameras. Believe it or not, some of these children do come from good homes. Is it access to technology? Is it causing our children to get too much too fast and ultimately stunting their maturity? The government believes that children are not responsible enough to drive until the age of 16 or 17. Perhaps they aren't responsible enough to use all technological advancements that we have at our disposal. Maybe they only need Cell Phones that dial 3 numbers--home, school, and the police!

It is important to note one good thing that comes out of taping these fights. They can help aid in the prosecution of wrongdoing. It is a shame that these children don't even realize that they are essentially documenting evidence that can send them to jail.

So, would I ever stop and break up a fight again, even if it puts me in harms way? Absolutely!!! Not doing anything is as bad as videotaping it.

Why does this always happen?

Why does everything seem to go wrong the minute Geoff goes out of town? He is away for the week at a sales meeting in Chicago and things are so hectic. You never realize the impact your partner has on making life run smoothly until they are gone. It all started on Sunday. My car had been having some issues with cutting on. To make a long story short, we had it towed to the dealership on Sunday night. Thank goodness it is still under warranty. As a result, I dropped Geoff off at the airport and used his car. Most of you also know that I am starting a new job. New jobs can be stressful. But with Geoff gone, things have been beyond stressful. Usually we are able to effectively manage our 3 dogs by working together. However, I couldn't do it alone this week. Thank goodness I have a wonderful neighbor with teenage kids who are always willing to jump in and help. So all dogs have hour walks this week (thanks to Drew)! I also have a bird flapping around my chimney. Our young neighbor is also pitching in and meeting the "critter countrol" guy while I am at work! This bird noise is annoying me and frustrating the dogs. Even Angie Hionis-Bell is pitching in! She is picking up Passion (aka Diva Dog) from the Hair Salon on Friday. Thanks girl! This is so helpful! To top the week off, I catch a major bug! I got sick at about 11pm last night and I stayed up til morning. Fever, chills, headache, and a little bit of cleaning up after myself (if you know what I mean...ewww). To make a bad situation worse, I had to call out sick on my first day working with my manager. What an impression!!! And now, my phone is ringing off the hook with potential renters for a rental property. Ugh! I will be so glad when Geoff returns.

Fake Housewives of NJ

I started the day doing what I usually do...perusing celebrity gossip sites. LOL! And I was just outraged. You all know how much I love reality TV. It is one of my many guilty pleasures. However, I must say that this season's cast of the Real Housewives of New Jersey is totally disappointing. Sure they behave like teenagers and are full of drama. I can live with that. But Teresa (aka the Table Flipper) takes the cake. Her blatant consumerism is quite sickening. She spends thousands of dollars on kiddie clothes, bday parties, marble furniture, etc. and are currently facing multiple foreclosures, tax liens, bankruptcy, etc. We all hit hard times. I think we have all been there. But when entering these times, you cut back. You don't continue the facade of fabulosity. And you definitely don't do this for TV. At the end of the day the check she receives from Bravo cannot cover her immense debt. Furthermore, the example she sets for her daughters is quite disheartening. A couple of weeks ago, her home was featured in In Style Magazine and she was quoted saying that "you can never have enough marble". Seriously! And now, 2 weeks later, everything in your home is being auctioned off because of lying to the IRS. (Click here for pics of the merchandise for sale and the article) Your children's comfort is being taken away. They are even taking the crib and bedroom sets. I am sad for the kids. They are the real losers in this situation. Their parents behaved irresponsibly, passed on this bad behavior, and are now being stripped of basic comforts. Again, everyone hits hard times. Our economy is in shambles. But this particular family really makes my blood boil.

A Born Leader

Hey guys! Most of my readers know that I have had a stressful, few weeks. In fact, I just returned home from a week and a half away (work trip). While away, I started researching numerology and became very intrigued with my Life Path Number. Below you will find info pertaining to my number. Be sure to Calculate Your Own Life Path Number! My assessment is below! I want to put it all out there. The good, the bad, and the ugly! We all have our cross to bear. Not surprisingly, my life path is that of a "leader". Note to self: Include Life Path info on resume! Anyway, enjoy my info and commentary!

Life Path Number 1

If you are a 1, you are motivated by a need for soul freedom and personal attainment. Your prime directive is to learn how to be independent from others in all ways, but especially emotionally and financially. Very True!

Number 1s often have the potential to be great leaders but the often abysmally fail when it comes to teamwork and cooperation. For this reason, they make great entrepreneurs, freelancers, generals, commanders, CEOs and producers. Love This! Just call me “The Donald” from now on!

Usually number 1’s spend at least two thirds of their life trying to shake of the emotional and financial shackles imposed on them by others. I can see this! Insanely independent (emotionally, financially, etc) However, it would be nice to learn to depend on others. They are usually self-made individuals who, like salmon swimming upstream, have to overcome great odds in order to succeed. They innovative and inventive personalities usually end up changing the world for the better in some way. That’s the plan…changing the world while seeking personal and professional success!

A person with a number 1 Life Path is usually blessed with motivation, enthusiasm, creativity and inspiration. They tend to be physically healthier and mentally stronger than most people are. Their good looks vitality and lust for life is a source of awe for others who often admire their stamina and ability to get their act together. Go Me!!!

However sometimes a person travelling the number 1 Life path can be self-absorbed, pushy and overwhelming. Their aggression and ambition is often interpreted as hostility and selfishness. Most number 1’s learn hard lessons about the value of good timing and tact during their life journey. I can definitely see this! Do I think I am self-absorbed? Absolutely not. Pushy? Yes! Can be overwhelming? I guess. I would like to think that I am not, but I know that my personality can be a lot for some people. Hopefully, once they get to know me this “overwhelming” impression changes. I definitely think that I have developed lots of tact and timing over the years. Like everyone else, I am still growing!

Many who try to have relationships with number 1s cannot stomach their driving ambition and social climbing, which is indicative of their lust for success (especially material) at any cost. They tend to see people as objects and are possessive, jealous and obsessive. You’ll have to ask Geoff! They are also not beyond entertaining an infidelity that will advance their career. Not! We all have our boundaries!

Number 1s who stray from their paths often end up in clingy codependent relationships with mentally ill or addicted partners. Haha!!! If you are a number 1 and experiencing this kind of situation, it is a definite message that you are failing your life’s purpose to become self-sufficient in life.

Young Hollywood

Is it just me or has Hilary Duff blossomed into a stunning young woman? The thing I love most about Hilary is her ability to stay grounded while living the life of a young, Hollywood starlet. She manages to simultaneously enjoy a successful career and personal dignity... I love that! I am sure it's hard. I am sure there are temptations. Just look at Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton. Like Hilary, Lindsay is also beautiful and very talented. I remember watching her in a remake of the Parent Trap when I was younger and Lindsay was a true star back then. But somehow fame and stardom got the best of her. Look at her now....unable to get future acting roles because of her diva behavior and wild antics, a second jail sentence coming up, drugs, reckless behavior...the list is endless. And Paris Hilton....the world was her oyster. Sure she built a lucrative brand created around her persona of a "ditsy heiress", so she must have some smarts. But again....jail, sex tapes, and 2 recent marijuana busts. Come on Paris! And let's not talk about her influence on young women. Two words..."that's hot"! Because of Paris (and others like her), we live in a culture where young girls expect fame for nothing, pretend to be dumb, and can't see past the goal of carrying a Chihuahua in their Pink Louis Vuitton Bag. The problem with these starlets is simply getting too much too fast. Some people, like Hilary, are blessed with maturity and self-awareness and can handle the spotlight with ease. However, when you aren't quite sure who you are as a person, you can't possibly attempt to be a role model for others. Side note: Isn't Hilary the picture of health? You don't have to be a size 0 to be beautiful! She looks fantastic!!!! And those shoes are to die for!

It's just cheesecake! Relax!

Last night, Geoff and I stopped into the Cheesecake Factory for a quick dessert. Our waitress was extremely nice, but extremely stressed. The tables around us were running this girl around like a chicken with her head cut off. One table in particular really upset me. As soon as she put the food down, the nasty faces appeared and the random demands were blurted out. They stressed her out so much that she couldn't remember to bring me a glass of skim milk to accompany my Apple Crisp (Yum)! She appeared back at their table with a tray full of condiments in small containers. Then someone needed silverwear. Then someone didn't like their water. The list goes on and on! This poor girl was trying so hard to make them happy but she was fighting a losing battle. And worst of all, I am sure they gave her a horrible tip.

So I am writing today because I don't want to be that person and I truly hope that I am not. I have a mild case of (self-diagnosed) OCD. When I go to a restaurant, I have to eat the things that I like in the way that I like them. For example, if I have a burger, it must be cooked Medium with American Cheese, Bacon, Ketchup, Mustard, Pickles, Lettuce, 1 Tomato, and BBQ Sauce on the side. I never give attitude to my waitstaff though. But even though I don't give attitude, the special requests are a little much at times. So this week I will try an experiment. I will be away at training for work and will dine at a bunch of restaurants. I will not make ANY special requests this week. We will see how it goes! I just don't wanna be like the diners last night!