What Would You Do???

Let's say you've married the love of your life. In front of God, your family and a licensed minister you make your vows to love and cherish FOREVER. Let's skip forward 3 or so years. Your spouse comes in the door and says that they need to tell you something. You feel the presence of a storm. Something is wrong. What is it? Your spouse tells you they've been unfaithful.

So the question is today, could you forgive them? More importantly, could you save your marriage?

I ran this question through my head this evening after being asked by one of my friends what I would do in this situation. I can easily state that I could forgive my spouse. I don't believe in harboring any resetment towards anyone. It's unhealthy. Could I stay... would I stay?

Honestly I don't know. I have always held on to the notion that I want to get married and stay married, period. My belief has always been that we can work through anything. I believe I could get over the hurt and the humilitiation. I've got to be honest though and say that I would be scared straight to go down that road again. I would be afraid of being hurt and with good reason, don't you think?

I don't have the answer here or one that is remotely close to it. Only thing I can imagine is needed is forgiveness, time, patience, honesty, commitment and lots and lots of PRAYER.

Lunch with Edna and Sarah

Life it never boring... this I know for sure. So EP (coworker/friend) and I leave the office to run a few errands and grab lunch while we are out (sorry SS and EA). We end up to Matthews in Tucker. They serve good soul food if you are looking. I cleaned my plate (nothing really new).

So EP suggests that we sit in the bay seats at the window. Ok, cool. We get to grubbing. A few minutes go by and we see an old man staring into the window and grinning at us. OH GOODNESS. I tell EP that he better keep it moving. He comes in, stops right in front of EP and smiles. “How you ladies doing?”, he asked. Here we go…

The old man ends up grabbing the chair by EP and having himself a seat. “Ya’ll look good… no matter how you put it. Ya'll in school. You look like you in school. I got kicked out of this place. Ya’ll come see me. Let me have your number. I get numbers. One of you can be on my right and the other on my left.” Granddaddy would not let us eat our food in peace. He kept looking at EP’s hips (which she has much of) and licking his lips. EP said she kept waiting on him to lean over and pinch her.

Thomas Jefferson III (that's what he claim) ended up sitting with us throughout the duration of our meal. He persisted that we give him our numbers and that he would take care of us. Free pool. Dinner. Lord knows what else!! Did I mention that Thomas graduated college in 1967. Thomas now you know we are too young for you. I guess you’re never to old for a little stirring. HA.

EP and I ended up changing our names to Edna and Sarah and writing our new numbers in Thomas’s phone book. I know the fellas are like that is wrong, but Thomas was persistent. We didn’t know what else to do. I don’t think Thomas had it all upstairs though. He kept repeating himself and would occasionally mumble something to himself. God bless him… on the real.

EP and I finished our food and decided it was time to go. Thomas had us boxed in. EP jumped up and slid by. I was in the corner. By the time I was out my seat, Thomas was up with arms open. “Give me a hug”. Dude don’t you know it’s flu season!!! LOL. So I ended up hugging an old man today.

This may not be that funny on screen but I tell you Thomas had us rolling in Matthews today. I haven’t been that entertained in weeks. I wish TJIII the best of luck and God’s blessings.

Desperate Times...

So did you hear about the 23 year old in Indianapolis??? Gregory Smith walked into an Advance Cash Store and pointed a gun at the clerk. Angie Montez, the clerk, begged Greg not to do “this” and said that she didn’t want to die. And what did Gregory do? What does he say? “I don’t want to do this either!”

So are you wondering why Greg was there. Times are hard and Greg and his 2 year old son were going to be put out on the street later that afternoon. Greg goes on to talk with the clerk telling her that he has been looking for a job for months. Angie talks with Greg and they end up crying and praying together. Greg took the bullet out of the gun, told Angie to stay in the bathroom for 20 minutes, took 20 dollars and left. Later on Greg turned himself in and returned the money.

This story got me. We all have the choice to do good or bad but I can’t help putting my feet in this man’s shoes for a moment. I’m not a parent, but I imagine I would do anything for mine. This young man was at then end of his rope and felt he didn’t have a choice. And they prayed together?!? Where are my tissues???

So what do you think about this? Economic times have been unbearable. I was unemployed this past summer and if it had not been for my mother, I’m not sure what I would be doing. People are starting to do things they would never do otherwise. I mean if I had a small child at home, no job, no money and was about to be kicked out of my home, I would probably do some crazy things. I don’t condone what Greg did but I can understand where he was coming from. I don’t think he is some ruthless criminal. He ended up only taking 20 bucks and never assaulted the clerk. Desperate times call for desperate measures.

So what now? Greg is being charged. I don’t think jail time is what this situation needs. This makes me ponder a frequently asked question, “Do you send a man to jail for stealing bread when he’s hungry?” What Greg needs is some community service, counseling and assistance in finding employment. Placing him in jail and his son in this system will probably only result in making him a REAL criminal.

Sandman Come Back...

I got tired of looking out into the darkness and decided to turn on my computer and blog.

I can't get back to sleep. I drove back to Atlanta this afternoon. I got back to the house, unpacked a few things, got washed up, and ran my mouth on the phone. When I got done I was so tired. Great... I can go to bed and get a good start on the work week. I went to sleep around 10:30. About 2 hours later I started tossing around the bed and now I'm up. SIGH. So much for being bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in the morning. My alarm is going to go off in just a few hours.

So it's starting to get a little chilly in the city. I could be attempting to cling on to the warm weather just a little longer, but it seems to be that it's too cold too early this year. Granted, it's not Boston weather, of which I am grateful, but it doesn't feel like GA weather to me.

Ok... I think I heard the Sandman sneak into the house. I'm going to go catch him before he runs off again. Wish me luck...

Peanut Changed Her Status to Patient

Hello stranger… I know that is exactly what you are thinking. It has been forever and a day since I have graced Peanut’s Pod. Some folks were wondering what happened to me… I’m still alive.

There has been a lot going on since the last time I wrote. I spent my last night in Boston with A1, talking and making plans for future get-togethers. She stayed with me the night, helped me drag my bags downstairs, caught a few of my tears as I cried goodbye and saw me off in my last taxi ride from 682 Massachusetts Ave to Logan Airport.

Everything after that was a rush up until August. My main goal between June and August was to complete my thesis. That was a headache within itself and then there were added personal issues on top of that. There is not enough space for me to go through all that stuff and honestly I don’t think I’d like to. Some things are just better left in the past. So I finished my thesis, graduated (HOORAY) and since then have been sitting at the house (SIGH). The first couple of weeks were great and then the insanity set in. I attempted to return to the blog then, but realized I had absolutely nothing to say. There was nothing to tell. My daily activities were wake up, feed myself, don’t spend any money, search for jobs, watch tv, wash and go back to bed. Oh yeah, and pray for a job.

Well thank goodness that time period is over. I return to work on Monday and I am ready. Bored and broke doesn’t look good on me.

Aight that’s a very light recap and now on to other things…

I realize that I am starting to want a little more out of life. For the most part whenever I considered the near future I thought about my career and financial stability. As far as love and family were concerned, “it’ll come in time” would be my response. I’m finding more and more that I want that time to be now. I want to be married or at least know that I’m with the one who is the one. Hell, who am I kidding? I’d settle for just a meaningful relationship with a man even if he isn’t the one. It can be difficult entering FB land to read all the posts of “happy with him”, “can’t get enough of him”, such and such “status now in a relationship, engaged or married”. I am beginnning to feel like the last kid picked for kickball. PICK ME, PICK ME (hand waving in the air)!!! I wanna change my little pitiful single status to something else.

Now of course I understand that what God has for me is for me and that he will deliver it in HIS own time. I also know that I must be content with the blessings that I have, which are many. I know this and understand. It’s still hard to fight back those desires of wanting more. In some way, shape or form I do believe everyone wants to be in a relationship. Of course we can all stand on our own. Even so, isn’t life just lovely when you have a significant other? Isn’t it nice having someone who genuinely cares about you and wants to make you happy. A FB friend of mine points out the feelings associated with not having a significant other: an empty apartment, less phone rings, cooking for one, and movies alone. Am I wrong for wanting this to change?

And so many will respond, “get out there and meet people”. I do and I’ve got enough “friends” to start a small country. I just wonder when and how a man decides that he wants to build on a friendship and why hasn’t anyone decided that they want to explore this option with me. What am I doing wrong? No I’m not bombarding any man with these thoughts of mine; that’s a sure way to get him to run. I do the normal... go out, have fun, converse and offer myself as a true and genuine friend. Where is the glitch? I mean recently I meet a guy. I think he is pretty cool. He’s got some nice things going for himself and I’d like to learn more. One day he seems interested and as the days continue, it seems as if his interest is fading. What da hell did I do?

We now return you to normal programming, already in session. Ok, I had to vent momentarily. What was I saying?? Awww yes… I must be content. I must be patient. I must remember it's not my time, but HIS. Keep on living and maybe one day God will decide it’s my turn to change my FB status. LOL. Now I must go pray for patience…

Dos (That's Two)!!!

Since it is officially Monday, I have 2 more full days after today in Boston. Can you feel my excitement?!!?!

I'm officially going through some "senioritis" over here. Oh wait... should I have said "freshioritis" (please refer to May 2nd post if you are lost). I've got my last exam in nine hours and I'm TIRED of looking at this stuff. Will I give up? Of course not... I just feel like *itching.

I'm excited to get the celebratory portion of this week started. After the exam, I'm going to a graduation get together. After that, M and I are going clubbing. Tuesday and Wednesday, A1 and I hit the town. We've got a lot to swallow in a couple of days but we shall try to get it all in. I've got my camera charged and ready.

Of course there is always going to be someone trying to spoil the fun. My landlord (cannot wait to get rid of her) has been refusing my calls/emails for over a month now. I think I'm going to have to beat her in her head for my security deposit (and yes I will if I don't get my money back)! Moving on... I will deal with her after the exam.

Ok... gotta go. I forgot that I'm supposed to be arranging some paperwork for a couple of my professors. I can wait and turn it in Tuesday, but I'd rather go ahead and get it done now.... and then, back to studying. Later.

Grateful I Took the Time...

How many days left? Ooooohhh, I know the answer (hand waving). Pick me!! I've got five more days left. My little kitty is helping me display this lovely number (I think). Maybe he's just raising his hand to answer the question. Moving on...

So I went and had my last lab quiz this morning covering the placenta and mammary glands. What fun... Afterwards I ran into FedEx to get a small box. I thought I could pack everything in the boxes I had. WRONG. I wanted some coffee (actually needed) but didn't want to drag the box to the Dunkins up the street. I stopped by the house to drop the box off.

Coming out the door and down the steps, I notice this man looking up at me. I give my normal, polite, half smile and look down so I don't bust my butt going down the steps. Then I realize the man is still looking at me. Ohhh geez!!! I know this scenario. I'm going to have to beat this old man off with a stick. He approaches me and starts talking. DUDE... I really just came out here for some caffeine. Please don't block me!!!

It turns out that the man originally was going to hit on me but when he found out we had a 40 year age gap, he left the idea alone. So I talk to this guy for awhile cuz I realize that he is super intelligent and I'm actually enjoying the conversation. Apparently he used to work in the hospital assisting in surgery (not sure the title), but he knew all kinds of stuff. I told him I was attending the med school and he just opened up like a budding flower (couldn't think of a better analogy). I wonder what happened to his life though. He looked rough. I won't go into details but my first inclination was to run with my feet and not my mouth.

I talked to the man for about 15 minutes on the street and at the end he said he just wanted to thank me for taking the time to talk with him. He said most would look at him and take off (my first thought) but I didn't. He said people are always so busy and sometimes he just wants someone to chat with. He went on to say that people just aren't nice these days, especially to the older folks. That tugged at my heart strings. Instantly I was ashamed for wanting to railroad the guy for coffee. He just wanted someone to talk to. I pray when I get old there will be someone around who will listen to my butt. I mean we all get busy in our lives (normal and expected) but we should remember to slow down and call loved ones (old and young). Makes you really appreciate those people you have in your life, doesn't it???? Where's my cell phone? I got some folks to call!!!

Wrapping Up Things in Boston

I'm still in Boston, but not for long. 7 days and counting. I can't even believe it. I remember crying at the thought of moving this far and bout died when I realized this would be my home for a while, but it all worked out. My time here has come and gone. I'll do the whole sentimental post probably next week. I'm too tired for all that now.

Last week was RIDICULOUS. I had a paper and two exams. By the time Friday came along I was just barely moving. I finished my exam, got some food and FELL OUT. I didn't know where I was when I woke up (the next day). I don't even remember getting into bed. I was a bum most of the weekend and then I realized that I have one more exam. I finally started showing signs of life around Monday and am in full gear now. ONE MORE EXAM. Whoopee!!! I don't even know what I'm going to do Monday after the test, but I can guarantee it will be a celebration for the entire year.

Did everyone enjoy their Mother's Day? This was my very first Mother's Day without my Mom. Wait... she's not dead, she's still on this earth. I just meant I have always gone home for the holiday and this year was the first one in which I hadn't. I was told she cried quite a bit. My poor mother misses her baby!!! :-) Hold on Peg... I'm coming back!!!

Well that's about it. I have to remember to fill you in on M and his proposal and the homeless guy whose sweet on me. I'm off to bed now. Later.

I'd Like to Order the Fish: Filet of Mignon

So it's exam time around here. Everyone looks hagged out and ready for it all to end. I'm included but I don't look too beat up. I hope not... some of these people around here looking rough.

I've got 3 more exams and a project paper due. 3 of those 4 happen next week. What a busy week to anticipate. So what do you think I'll be doing this weekend? SIGH. Holding my books tight!! I just keep telling myself... ALL MOST DONE!!!! 16 MORE DAYS!!!! (I'm jumping right now; at least in spirit).

So I have got to share this story. I was hesitant about sharing. I try to tone down my talking about people; however, if it makes me laugh, all bets are off.

So A1, her cousin (E) and E's friend went to Match. We are still killing their $5 Thursday entrees!!! Just can't beat that. Well anyway... E's friend... She was just a little off. You know how you meet someone and instantly you feel something but you just can't put your hand on it. As always I greeted the girl with a smile and a handshake, but inside I was thinking, "something is off". And something was. You ever meet those people who claim to know so much but really don't know shit. This was home girl.

Beginning... We are looking at the menu and A1 and I are explaining what items we've had before and what taste best and so on. E's friend asks me whether of not I had the filet mignon there before. I tell her no and mention that out of the two STEAK cuts available, filet mignon was at the bottom of my list. She goes on to say that she hasn't had it in five years and really enjoyed it the last time and can't wait. Ok... So food is coming to the table. She looks at her food, then to waitress and says, "I ordered filet mignon". I look up from my plate (I was already salivating and ready to attack). I think, "oh geez they gave her the wrong food". Neglecting my plate (sigh), I look to see what's on her plate... FILET MIGNON. Huh? Did I hear right? E's friend goes on to explain that she ordered fish (now pointing to my plate). NO BABY, EVERY FILET IS NOT FISH!!!! LMAO. So I try explaining this to the girl and she asks me whether or not I'm sure. I'm done!!! I've got a "filet mignon" on my plate that I am ready to enjoy. Inside I was laughing so hard... I imagine not everyone is as well versed in food as others but at her ripe age, I just figured she would know the difference between the two items. She ended up eating her cow despite her desire for fish.

Next... E's friend asks me what I do. I told her that A1 and I are in the graduate program at BUMS. "So what do you classify yourself as?" I know I've got my WTF face on now. I'm lost. What do I classify myself as? Black. American. Student. Christian. Woman. What are you asking? She instantly reads my confused face and asks whether or not I consider myself to be a freshman or a senior or what. Ummm.... I tell her we really aren't broken down into classes like that. Graduate school isn't necessarily 4 years so typical classifications don't work. This is my first and last year so if you wanna call me a freshior... go for it. HOME GIRL gives me this look and begins to dispute. Are you kidding me? She goes on with her explanation of how I should still classify myself within one of the groups. By now I'm in shock. It it really this important. I got a classification for you... DONE.

I kept my mouth pretty much closed for the rest of the evening and observed. She was pretty quiet for a while. She was killing that cow like it was her last supper. I won't talk about that. LOL. After inhaling her food and some of E's she went on to talk about affirmative action. Well at least that's what she said she was talking about. In reality... I have no idea. She had me so confused listening to her and she was so confident with every wrong statement that came from her mouth. How nice!!! Always have confidence girl.... I should have done like A1 and just turned my ears off. I looked over to A1. She had her glazed look on and the "NOT HOME" sign posted up. I was just dying inside. What a night?!?!

A1 and I departed from E and her friend and cracked up!!! We couldn't even keep track of all the things that needed to be laughed at concerning the evening. I felt like I had stepped off a movie tapping. All of it was a part of a script. It had to be. Like A1 ones says all the time... "the more I live... the more I see".

Short Weekend Recap

Hey folk. What's up??? I'm still around, just looking at slides like the one above. They are all starting to look the same now. So what's been going on? I have to make this short but I'll try to throw in as much as possible.

This weekend? Was gorgeous! The weather was in the high 70s and low 80s; just beautiful. It all reminded me of home and that made me smile. A1 and I were in the streets the entire weekend, soaking up the sun. M and I went car racing on Saturday. It was so fun. I thought we were going to do the goat carts/bumper car type racing. NAW. We had the mini cars type racing. I had to put on a suit, with a helmet and neck brace. I had my Nascar game face on!! I kept praying... LORD, let me see another day. I did. I enjoyed every minute of it and I beat M. This is the 3rd sport type thing I've beat him in. He needs to work on his skills or maybe he's being a gentleman and letting me win. Whatever. I'll let him think that... I'm kicking his butt.

My time is winding up in the city and I'm trying to balance seeing everything and getting my work done. I now travel with my camera everywhere. I can't miss a moment. Despite the occasional down while being here in the city, I've had some good moments. I intend to create more of those good times on my way out and need to document every minute. I think A1 would disagree with me. She's tired of the camera. LOL. Oh well...

Ok. I've gotta go. I'm up for the next 3 hrs getting some work done and then it's class at 8:30am. Tomorrow... same schedule all over again. I'll try to come and say hello sometime during the day. PEACE OUT!!!

Code One Eight Seven: Killer On Campus

I actually had a few ideas for posting running through my head this morning when I woke up. I also got some ideas in Behavioral Medicine, but AS SOON as I got a special BU email I knew exactly what I was going to be talking about.... MURDER.

So check this. I attend Boston University School of Medicine (in case you haven't been reading my blog from the beginning). Well anyway... Our school sent out their own little news article this morning about a current situation. How about a second year medical student got picked up for murder. Supposedly he shot/killed a woman he had meet via Craiglist (advertising massage services) at a local Marriott. He is also a suspect in an attack two weeks ago at the Westin, where a woman was robbed of her debit card, cash and gift cards.

So I didn't know Philip (suspected KILLA) but some of my BH classmates recalled meeting him. Everyone states that he was just a really nice, funny and smart guy. Not that smart apparently... they grabed him a week after the incident; usually takes a little longer to "crack the case". I tell ya though... you just never know people. They got surveillance pictures of this boy all in the area around the time of the murder. Some of the pictures you can't tell (at least I can't), but in others... YEAH THAT'S HIM.

And it's so backwards... you are training to be a doctor, a professional that dedicates their life to SAVING people and in your space time you KILLING them. Maybe he missed the whole point of becoming a physician in orientation or something. I know there has never been a better time to be applying to BU medical school. It's unfortunate for them, but the school will be looked down upon because of this incident and they'll probably see a slight decline in applications for the 2010 entering class. Maybe I should apply!! NAWWWW. Hell no. I got to get out of Boston and I'm too close to achieving that goal.

Aight I'm gone. I've been gone from the house all day and I'm ready to relax a little. I'm going to watch a few scenes from MY FAVORITE MOVIE EVER: POLLY. I searched high and low for this movie on DVD for years and finally Disney (yes I said Disney, lol) released the thing a little while back. I could not wait to get my copy and it came today. I am sooooo geeked up. Going to watch it right now. I still know ALL the songs. :-) Later...

You Smell That?

I've actually had some time to post the last couple of days but have just been in a FUNKY mood. I've got some things going on in my personal life that are making my head hurt and to be honest I have no idea what to do. SIGH. Part of me wants to share that stuff with you, but you know what? Some things you just gotta keep to yourself or share over the phone or in person. So with that stuff and histology study, I haven't been able to think of anything interesting to come and post about. Maybe tomorrow. It's a big day in the city so maybe I'll venture out, take some pictures and come back and educate ya on New England's Patriots day. Later!

One Month

Short one today.... I just had to come on here and say that TODAY marks ONE more month for me here in Boston. Can I get an AMEN????!!!!! Ok... can't stay because if I don't attack this LONG list of things to do before the month goes by, I won't be going anywhere AND THAT would be the END of the world!!!

Another Song Maybe...

This is why you should not straddle a pole while getting yo gospel on... LOL.

How Sweet IT Is...

So we brought up the conversation in Behavioral Medicine the other day... when do you have the TALK with your kids and how much should you disclose?

We started this topic after someone asked whether or not any of us had seen last week's Oprah. One of my classmates mentioned that Oprah had some doctor on the show that suggested you introduce "aids" to your children (approximately age 10) to help in self gratification and to deter them from the actual act. So wait a minute here? Are you telling me that instead of getting my 10 year old princess a Barbie for her birthday, I have to look forward to giving her a vibrator??? Oh hell no... not in my household. I'm 25 and I don't even want my mother giving me that for a gift.

So I went out and looked for information on the show. I had to find out if the above was true before I talk junk. Here's what I found...

The doctor that Oprah had on her "Having the Sex Talk With Kids" episode was Dr. Laura Berman. Doc says that waiting to talk to your kids about sex until 13 or 14 is too late. I agree but I hate that. My mother is a middle school teacher, more specifically a 6th grade teacher, and she has had more than one pregnant student. Kids are 11 or 12 in the 6th grade. So when should we have the talk? In 4th???? Kids are moving too quick these days. By the time I have kids, I may need to sit my offspring down at age 6 for this dreaded conversation. Geez!!! Having a heart palpitation right now....

I think back to my own TALK. I didn't get one. My mother had long before given me the don't-let-anyone-touch-you-inappropriately-talk, but we never had the what-if-I-wanna-be-touched- talk. LOL. What was sex??? How'd I learn? I had sex ed at school and the encyclopedias at home. All my mother told me was, "don't bring nothing in this house". I knew what that meant and the sheer thought of pregnancy and my mother's wrath kept me away from exploring for a long time. Although it worked for me, I am sure my talk will be more than this simple threat.

So back to the show... O brings on Amy, a Tennessee mother, who wants to have the talk with her 10 year old daughter, Jordan. Why now? Jordan is asking questions constantly. So... Dr. Berman tells Amy the main three topics to cover are the "male and female anatomy, the mechanics of making a baby...and becoming familiar and comfortable with your genitals". Say WHAT??? Doc goes on to say, "It's about soothing... It's not about sexual arousal and the sexual connotations that we put on it. It's just about normalizing it for them and setting the seeds that this is normal." Normal when you get out my house!!

Dr. Berman goes on to say that by the time a female child reaches high school you should talk about self gratification and the big O (not Oprah, lol). "You're teaching them about their own body and pleasuring themselves and taking the reins of their own sexuality so that they don't ever have to depend on any other teenage boy to do it for them," Dr. Berman says.

And the piece de resistance... Straight form Oprah's website "To teach your 15- or 16-year-old daughter the concept of pleasure, Dr. Berman recommends a product many mothers may not think of getting for their daughters—a clitoral vibrator". HOLD THE PRESSES!!!! So instead of a set of earrings and your driver's permit or license (what I got), girls around the world can look forward to receiving a "jumping bean" and batteries for their Sweet Sixteen. Have your child running round the house singing this!! LOL. Just joking!! Ok, all seriousness, how you feel about this one????

Randomness of Week

So I went to the doc today and got my bag of drugs like I knew I would. Apparently I have trachetis and sinusitis; basically a bunch of bacteria in my upper respiratory tract. No bronchitis though... whoopee. I had that in September. Always got something...

So gotta back track a few days and update ya on some things.

Friday... went to the movies with M, a guy that I met up here. So I think it is important that I point out that this was only the second time that I've been anywhere with M. I should also point out that I have never spoken with him on the phone. With that being said, M hands me a blue bag within the first few minutes of seeing him. Now ladies, if you don't know the famous blue bag, hit me up so we can tell yo SOs that's where it's at. The man bought me something from Tiffanys. I can't take this I tell him. I give him all the rational reasons of why I shouldn't and he persists. Says to take it as either a late birthday gift or an early graduation gift. I was thinking in my head... "You bet not think you getting ANYTHING because of this". I'm not one of them. So anyway... I've got a nice lil bracelet. I'm starting to wonder if this man's got money. I looked up the price of the thing and I know men who've been WITH a woman for years and ain't trying to buy no gifts like that. Ummm... don't know bout all this yet. Living and learning....

Food... so M and I and then A1 and I went to Kaze, a Shabu Shabu restaurant in Chinatown. So what's Shabu Shabu? It's a Japanese variant on the hot pot. Plates of meat and veggies are dipped in broth and then eaten with a side sauce (delicious). I had the surf and turf with a bunch of seafood and prime rib in the Korean Kimchi broth. The prime rib was off the chain. I could eat this thing like once a week. I'm going to have to find a good Shabu Shabu restaurant in ATL or I'll be coming back up here now and then just for that. LOL

Religion... so A1 and I spent the majority of our Easter in the bookstore studying. The life of a graduate student is none at all. Anyway, we were sitting on a bench outside waiting on our always-late-number-10. Another bus on a different street had stopped to drop and pick up and off came a gentleman in a tan suit. He starts walking in our direction but to the side... he is about to cross through the park sitting behind us. He looks up and changes direction. "A1... he's coming our way; grab your purse". The man (minister) approached us with greetings of Easter and asked if we had a church. We both explained that we were Christians with church homes and other basic conversation. THEN the man completely turns towards me and says that God had sent him there for me. He wanted me to know that I was destined for great things and that God knows what I'm going through but that I shouldn't be afraid to seek counsel. This is the short version. The man kept going on for a minute. I was like why is he just looking at me? I started to ask him where A1 blessing and prophecy was. LOL. It was just interesting. Almost every other day, there is something happening here in the city and I've got a front row seat to it all.

Come Down Madelilne... So I Can Sleep

There is a woman downstairs screaming in the middle of the street. She is sooo drunk. She is screaming all kind of obscenities at OUR door. Who is this heffa and where are the police? She keeps screaming for Madeline and called someone on her cell phone to come down to the "24 store to help her beat a b*&^% a^%". She has been screaming at our building for like 20 minutes now.

A few minutes have passed and now her two little friends are here. You would think they would tell her to get her drunk tail home. No. Now she beating on next home's door. Her friends are holding her jacket and jewelry. Are these people crazy? I promise I'm in the twilight zone.

I turned my lights off in the room and pulled the chair up for the action. Why did the police just happen by, ask if she was fighting with the other two people and after they said no, just left? He didn't even get his lazy butt out the car. This girl is wobbling back and forth across the street and you just left her. She stayed calm for about 2 minutes and then picked it all back up again. She grabbed on every body part God gave her and screamed every cuss word in English and Spanish at least 10 times. I even went and got me a few pretzels to watch the show...

She is now out there sitting on the bench cooling off. Got on a tank top in this freezing weather. She gon feel all that in the morning when she come out of her drunken stupor.

I tell ya boy... entertainment. That's it for now. I have to come back and tell you about the street preacher with my prophecy and Kaze (Japanese place M and I went to the other day and that A1 and I went to today). Oh yeah... FYI. I have LOST my voice. I'm going to the doctor tomorrow. This will be my third week in a row with SOMETHING. Apparently I can't fight this battle alone. Give me the REAL drugs.

Happy Easter

So you ever wondered how Easter became the holiday filled with thoughts of bunnies and painted eggs hiding in the grass? How'd we get from Christ's resurrection to long-eared hopping mammals and undeveloped chicken offspring? Here's a little Easter history for you thanks to the History Channel.
Concerning the egg...
"As Christianity spread throughout Europe, different pagan customs blended into the holidays. In fact, the actual word Easter may have come from Eostre, the goodness of spring and fertility; which brings us to the Easter egg. Eggs have been a mythological symbol of birth for thousands of years. Christians adopted the egg as a Easter custom sometime around the 13th century. The yolk inside a shell represented Christ's emergence from the tomb. Eggs were painted red to represent the blood Christ shed on the cross. The colorful Easter egg soon hatched its own traditions."

Concerning the bunny...
"The fertile rabbit had long been a symbol of new life in European pagan celebrations. Beginning around the 16th century, parents told children that if they behaved, on the eve of Easter the Osterhase would come and lay colorful eggs. Children built nests in their homes to entice the rabbit to visit and so began the customs of Easter hunt and the Easter basket."

So I went on Wikipedia to check out the Easter bunny story especially since I wasn't sure on the spelling of the big bunny that brought eggs. Wiki goes on to say that the bunny would brings eggs, toys and candy to children, sometimes hiding them within the house.

So can we say the Easter bunny is Santa Claus for the summer? LOL. Just joking... sort of.

There are lots more theories and such about Easter traditions and how they came about, but I would be here all day if I were to share it all with you. That's what I found initially, backed it up in 2 other places and that's all I'm giving ya.

So what does Easter mean for me? I mean most of us know what the day symbolizes but how do I apply that to my life? I think of Easter as a time of renewal. Jesus died and was resurrected. I don't think I would quite use the word resurrected and apply to my life, but RESTORE. I've got my own things in my life (in all aspects) that I would like to restore; that I would like to put some life into. For me this year, that what I'm going to take out of Easter. Ok... I'm out.

So yeah... have a BLESSED EASTER!!!!

Can't Match That

I have been off and on sick for two weeks now. I just thank the Lord that I didn't have any exams sitting in my lap. I started feeling sick the day of my last exam. I've got another next week so it's time to shake whatever is in my system. So I've been locked up in my room most of the week sleeping like a bear in hibernation and overdosing in cold medicine. Today I felt somewhat decent and when A1 texted me and suggested Match, I thought what the hell.

So Match... A1 and I first ended up at the spot after an evening of searching for a soul food restaurant that turned out to be a closed down shack. I guess their [Match] main speciality are mini burgers. The first time we went I got a lamb burger and beef brisket burger (if my memory serves me correctly)... oh and some macaroni and cheese. So anyway, when we received our check we got a little flyer that said Tuesday night was $1 burgers and Thursday nights was Ladies Night with $5 entrees. Yeah right we thought. Our portion will probably no bigger than my palm.

So back to tonight... A1 texted me and suggested we check out the $5 entree spectacular at Match. OH MY GOODNESS... the food was excellent and if you haven't read it by now, it only cost me FIVE DOLLARS. There isn't much these days you can get for $5, let alone a REAL MEAL. I ordered the 12 oz Delmonico Steak which was soooo juicy. It was just perfect (flashback). Ok I'm back with you now. With 5 more entree items on the menu, I think A1 and I will be finding 5 more Thursdays to go visit Match. Now if only they put a discount on drinks...

Look Who Can Post Two Days in A Row

I'm back another day. The crowd goes wild...

I'm sitting here surrounded by papers, mostly endocrinology and histology. I have got to get back into the groove and start the grind, but I'm having a difficult time. The main reason is my head. I've had a cold off and on now for two weeks and it just doesn't seem to want to go away. I thought I was better this past weekend (I felt great) but Sunday night my ears started ringing again and my throat closed up. SIGH. I really need the drugs to completely take over and rid my body of this craziness. I've got things to do beside sleep, which is mainly ALL I want to do. 8 hrs just isn't enough.

Well I'm keeping it short, cuz guess what? I'm sleepy!!!! I'm going back to bed after I fight to finish reading about the adrenal glands and its secretion of mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids. I figure if I type it, I might remember it. LOL.

Night!!

This Weekend

Hello strangers!!! I'm not going to say to much about where I've been and what I'm been doing AND how I've just disappeared from cyber world. I'm just going to try and just right back in.

Miss me? I certainly missed posting. I actually have pieces of paper with thoughts that I wanted to bring to you guys that I scribbled down during class all over the place. I'll try to pick the most intriguing topics and bring em to ya in the future.

So this past weekend... R came and visited me (smile). Its was so refreshing having one of my folks up here with me. Thanks R. Love ya.

So what'd we do? We didn't do as much as I had hoped for... the weather was crappy, but I had fun nonetheless. R got here about a quarter to midnight on Friday. We dropped of his bag and made our way to Stella, a little Italian spot up the street from me. It was pretty good. I had the Orecchiette, which is basically small scoop-bowl pasta with sausage and tomatoes. It was good. I'll have to go back during dinner hours and try the Spicy Cioppino or one of their pizzas.

After our midnight snack, we headed back to what R calls the "haunted house" and called it a night. We talked for a while and then fell out.

Next day looked promising but around 2 or 3 the rain came. Afraid of wet clothes and sickness we left the streets of Faneuil Hall Market Place and went to the movies to see Knowing.

Ok here... Has anybody seen this movie yet? I don't want to say too much without giving the thing away, but I was not feeling this movie. In the beginning the story had me. It actually kept me through the middle too. I kept asking myself, "how are you going to end this?". The more the movie progressed towards the end the more my face turned downwards at this thriller or sci-fi or religious movie. I'll leave it there. Go check it out. What'd you think?

After the movies, R and I, found a bar with a television, sat down for a couple of beers and cheesy fries and watched the Michigan State and UConn Final Four game. Not that exciting... neither of the final four games were edge-seat performances. Maybe we'll see some action in the final.

Ok... I guess this is getting lengthy. R, A1, her cousin, her "friend" and I went out to a party (that's what they called it) later that evening. We had a decent time and ended up getting some BANGIN breakfast at South Street Diner in the end. We went home, slept and R left me in the morning. My place immediately felt quiet. (SIGH) I focused on the fact that my time is soon ending here in Boston and tried putting a smile on my face. Onward I go...

Oh like my picture up there? Sunday's weather was gorgeous and A1 and I made our way out into the world. That's a picture I took of the Holocaust memorial here in Boston.

My Weekend

Hello all. Didn't think I was coming back huh? Fooled ya. I avoided most everything yesterday in celebration of Valentine's Day. Like one of my friends said, "Valentine's day is the new Groundhog's day. I am the groundhog and I'm not coming out". That was my motto, sort of. I did leave the house and drown my loneliness in fashion. Not too much though. I saw Confessions of a Shopaholic on Friday night and it had my shopping reserved all day. I'm scared of unnecessary debt as I should be. Anyway.... What else did I do Friday? A1, her cousin, and I went to eat at Toro, a tapas restaurant up the street. Want to know what I had? Check out the pic below.So as you have read by now I had pork belly, crispy to be exact. Wondering what those three little things are in front of the pork? Those are snails. Yes, I decided to try escargot. I was pleasantly surprised. I don't know if I was delusional or what, but I liked the taste. I'll have to try them one more time before I make my final decision.

Ok. I can't stay. I'm studying for my respiratory physiology exam that takes place Wednesday. This is my first exam of the semester and I have to set a pattern.

Peanut... Is That You?

Hello. Yes it's the ghost of Peanut. LOL. I would like to say that my presence her today means I'm back in full swing, but I've said that before.

This semester has been CRAZY. I have been juggling a million things and when I get a break I usually go to sleep. Wanna hear bout what I'm juggling. Well first I have to say that I put down one item today and I'm so thrilled. My graduate program department hands each student a little packet of questions at the beginning of the program. I glanced the first page and said, "hey this won't be so bad, I'll do this later". The department encourages you to start and finish the packet over your Winter break. I looked at the thing, but honestly who wants to do anything on their BREAK. I broke. That's what you are supposed to do. Anyway, THIS PACKET, has some of the most indepth questions anyone can ask you. I struggled with it a little and at times felt like throwing it in the trash. Anyway... to wrap it all up. It's done. I turned it in 20 minutes ago and now I can put that energy into something else.

Where's that energy going? I wish playtime. I haven't narrowed down the topic for my thesis and the deadline for that is fast approaching. I'm not doing squat today but when I resurface tomorrow I will start trying to figure out what I'm going to write on.

In addition to that I got the normal stuff: projects for Behavior Medicine, 4-5 hrs of studying everyday for Histology, physiology, stats and a library research course that is actually giving us work (how dare them).

What else is going on? Let's see. I'm trying not to overwhelm you here. I mean I have been gone for a minute. Worries this week... I'm starting to think about what life is going to be like in May when I pack my ish and head home. So during this summer I need to study for the MCAT, take the MCAT, apply to schools and write my thesis. Our department recommends that you not work during this time, which I would prefer; however, I'm starting to get realistic over here. How am I going to live this summer? I still have bills that I need to pay. Do I get a part-time job and just get by? Do I go back to the CDC (if they will take me)? What if they don't? Where am I going to work? The job market is the pits right now. I have no idea what to do here. I will technically be registered for 4 credit hours during the summer but I don't think that will be enough to get a loan. Move to Augusta? Hell no. I would be crazier than a tick. What's a girl to do? I'm going to try and avoid this issue until mid March or early April. Right now it's just giving me a headache. I was going to talk to my advisor and see what he recommends. I mean it was there suggestion not to work; tell me your plan on how I'm supposed to survive.

Ok... I'm done for the moment. I'll probably be back tomorrow. That's the plan. I'm going to the movies tonight so I'll tell you about whatever it is that we're going to see. Anyway... peace and blue hair grease.

Superbowl Sunday

So did you watch the game? You gotta admit that was good. When the 3rd quarter came around I was ready to turn the channel cuz I was getting bored and then all of a sudden... it got good. I was on the edge of my seat at the end. I wanted the Steelers to win and for a second I thought it was over. I gotta give the Cardinals their credit. They played a good game... it just wasn't enough. About the commercials... they sucked, right along with the half time show. I mean c'mon?!?! They have got to get better. The best part besides the game were the movie trailers. Maybe they will be better next year. So before I go... there was one commercial that made me really chuckle. Check it out below.

Words From B

As you can see I am having some difficulties getting back into the groove of posting. Give me a few more days while I learn how to juggle my new and overwhelming schedule. In the meantime, check out this video from B. It's got a good message. Listen and learn...

A Page in History

Today at noon the world stood still. Today Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America.

It was such a treat... just awesome. I went to campus around 11:30am to park in front of the diner's flat screen at have my taste of history. The area was crowded; people were packed in every corner. I found a little spot on the floor and soaked up every moment. The next hr and a half was just amazing. Everyone was silent and still with their eyes glued to the television. The last time I remember things at a standstill like this was during 9/11. This of course was a much happier occasion.

On the television you saw what was estimated between 1 and 2 million people waiting to hear Obama's speech.

"This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive ... that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America."

Rev. Joseph Lowery gave the benediction and added a little humor in closing. Some found it offensive. My mouth dropped slightly but hey... it is what it is. Here's what he said in closing...

"Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around... when yellow will be mellow... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen."

That's just a piece of the day. I would take up a lot more space if gave all the details. Wherever you were today, whatever your political views, I hope you took the time to watch this monumental moment in history. I am so proud to be here and to have been able to experience this day.

Thankful

You ever find yourself lost for words? This occassion is seldom for me and yet I find myself there tonight. I had someone special to me pass away a few hours ago and I have no idea what to say. It does make me thankful for those that are still around. Sigh. Night.

Back From Hiding...

Some people were beginning to think I had fallen off the face of the earth...

It's time for me to start blogging again. The holidays came and I disappeared. I made my way home and that was it. I got caught up in hanging out and sleeping (boy did I sleep). I was in my own little world (not quite the kitten up there, but you get the point). As a result, the blog got pushed to the back-burner. I'm back though.

Without going into a million details, I have to say that my break was FANTASTIC. I enjoyed every single second of it and would give one of my pinkie toes (I think) to do it all over again. Coming to Boston was more difficult this time that it was the very first time. I started thinking about my return about a week before it happened and each time felt compelled to cry. I held the tears back until the night before and the day of my return. I cried in the security line and during the first ten minutes of the flight. I miss home.

I'm good now. My friend let me know I needed to be a big girl. I think I'm going to try that on for a while. :-) On the real, I've got a million things to get done in the next few months. If I concentrate on all the things that need to happen, the time will fly by and before I know it I will by flying back to Southern USA.

So what's up this semester??? Classes include Histology, Human Physiology B, Elementary Biostats, Endocrinology, Behavioral Medicine and Biomedicine Information. Heavy plate, isn't it? I'm going to do it and at the same time I'll be studying for the MCAT and PCAT. Beyond that I don't think I'll be doing much else this semester. That's ok.

I've got lots more to update you on. I'll get to it before the week is out. I just wanted to stop in and HOLLA!

Hello 2009

As we are fast approaching the year 2009, I thought it was appropriate for me to find some time to reflect on the things that transpired in 2008. Starting a new year means reflecting on your successes and failures and planning for the future. While I refuse to go in details about some things (a little too personal), I have decided to share some... Here's a recap of 2008: my life and the a little outside world action.

~ I lost 29 lbs. WOOOOO HOOOOO.

~ I quit my job at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No more tubes and cholesterol! I miss my coworkers though!

~ Against a lot of fear and anxiety, I moved everything I own into storage (except some clothes)and moved to Boston.

~ I've completed one semester of the graduate program. ONE MORE TO GO!!!

~ I began and ended a relationship that I had hoped would have been much more.

~ My girlfriends and I started what we hope to be an annual girlfriend's getaway tradition.

~ I lost a few loved ones: Tony, Uncle John and Uncle Charlie.

~ We elected Illinois senator Barack Obama as the 44th President of the U.S.A.

~ California legalized same-sex marriage and then had it overturned by voters.

~ Unemployment rates spiked... still going.

~ The Senate passed the Bailout Plan. Bailout who? Many have asked...

~ I managed to get even closer to those I love: family and chosen family (friends)... great stuff!

Overall the year as been a good one. It has definitely been very significant and one that won't be easily forgotten for a lot of reasons. I've learned a lot this year and can only hope to continue learning from not only my mistakes, but my victories. Onward 2009...