While trolling on Twitter I came across @cbadov #warw tag and wanted to know more. WARW stands for Write a Review Wednesday and each week @cbadov and others review and blog about children's books in support of children's book writers and illustrators found using the hash tag #kidlit .
Awesome idea! I am looking for ways to find the best new books to share with The Bee, my patrons, I want to practice writing more and selfishly, I'm a bit behind on some review books that I have to complete for work (Rachee behaving badly!). This idea seemed almost like (dare I say it?) a tiny type of blessing.
Each week I will review books that I either find through our county office, from donations (contact me publishers and authors! I'll review your book!) and those gems that I find when I am browsing book stores, other libraries or the tons of catalogs that seem to be mailed each day. My reviews will consist of my reaction to t he book, the reactions of The Bee and the families at my work and I will crib from the review form that I use at work (unless someone tell me otherwise).
Enjoy and hopefully you can find a new book to share with the readers in your life!
Getting ready to review,
-r
It's the Rachee show!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
All in the Hood
Years ago during the height of Terry Macmillan's "Waiting to Exhale" popularity I used to be an exclusive reader and lover of "Black" books. I would greedily scour the African American section of bookstores and libraries looking for the next great thing that I would be reading. For months all I would read were books that soon seemed to be repeats of themselves:
The main female character (MFC) was burned by love, heart of gold just caught up in some bad situation.
The main male character (MMC) was also burned by love; he either had baby mama drama, hootchie mama drama or something in between.
The main characters would also have best friends. The MFC's best friend would either be the stereotypical hand on her hip, don't need no man, can't stand men, type or the love 'em too much and be a doormat type who would always, always interfere with the relationship of MFC.
MMC's best friend would be some loser who would inevitably degrade some woman, cross his best friend, be henpecked by some woman or just such a caricature that he was almost cartoony.
The plots would either be something so absurd that halfway through I would be able to correctly predict the ending or would just be complete nonsense. Then there was the editing. Ugh! I realize that my blog has glaring spelling and grammar issues but dang! Some of these books would seem like they were the writer's roughest draft just stapled and bound, and presented to the public. So I switched genres declaring that I would never read 'those' books again.
Fast forwards a few years and I am hooked once again. I have discovered that like other genres, Street lit, Urban books and the like have hits and misses. Some are really good and some get the ghost cheer: Boo! Unfortunately, unlike other genres these so called "Black Books" are often overlooked and not given a second chance because people tend to think that they perpetuate a stereotype, promote a gangster lifestyle and glorify drugs. And, to speak for myself, the books would seem so negative that it was almost a must to separate myself from the life of Pookie and 'nem*
When Vanessa asked me to be in her book group I was just flattered to be thought of as a colleague. When I found out that we were reading Street Lit, I thought I would just roll with it; as one of two I am often asked about "our Books" and I felt like I needed to get out of my rut of fantasy, mystery and wimpy kids.
Again, like some genres I found myself wondering how in the world some folks were published. I pondered who the audience some of the books were and I was exposed to K'wan. K'wan has written and published 13 books, is a motivational speaker and the CEO of Black Dawn Inc. He not only writes, he discovers and encourages up and coming writers to develop their talent and enter into successful writing careers.
My library didn't have any of his books. Any type of Street lit, Urban lit, novel by popular Black authors unfortunately disappear within weeks of being catalogued so I had to request his book from member libraries. Hoodrat arrived first and after forgetting to take it with me, finishing up my other book and just being a bit intimidated, I picked it up. From the first page I was hooked! I felt like I was in Harlem right along with Rhonda, Yoshi, Billy and Reese as they loved, fought, lived. As I read, I found myself taken by just how wonderful the book was as well as wanting more. The characters seemed so real; they were vividly described and introduced and I found myself literally laughing out loud at some of the scenes or gasping during others.
When the book club met K'wan, I wasn't sure what to expect. Most authors I have met are regular Joes and Josephines: people who's job just happens to be putting pen to paper. There have been a few who love themselves but hey, if you don';t believe in yourself then why should we? K'wan was neither. He was funny, shared himself and made me eager for more. He answered all of our crazy library questions and also shared some freebies from two of his new authors.
A young patron and I have been reading the books together. Eagerly she comes in to ask me about my progress and we discuss the characters. I am so happy to have been introduced to his works. Due to my past prejudice as well as my own stubbornness I would have missed a fantastic author, a fabulous series and an opportunity to connect with a patron.
Not hood but totally digging it,
-r
*I've not read a book about anyone named Pookie but that seemed like a perfect example
The main female character (MFC) was burned by love, heart of gold just caught up in some bad situation.
The main male character (MMC) was also burned by love; he either had baby mama drama, hootchie mama drama or something in between.
The main characters would also have best friends. The MFC's best friend would either be the stereotypical hand on her hip, don't need no man, can't stand men, type or the love 'em too much and be a doormat type who would always, always interfere with the relationship of MFC.
MMC's best friend would be some loser who would inevitably degrade some woman, cross his best friend, be henpecked by some woman or just such a caricature that he was almost cartoony.
The plots would either be something so absurd that halfway through I would be able to correctly predict the ending or would just be complete nonsense. Then there was the editing. Ugh! I realize that my blog has glaring spelling and grammar issues but dang! Some of these books would seem like they were the writer's roughest draft just stapled and bound, and presented to the public. So I switched genres declaring that I would never read 'those' books again.
Fast forwards a few years and I am hooked once again. I have discovered that like other genres, Street lit, Urban books and the like have hits and misses. Some are really good and some get the ghost cheer: Boo! Unfortunately, unlike other genres these so called "Black Books" are often overlooked and not given a second chance because people tend to think that they perpetuate a stereotype, promote a gangster lifestyle and glorify drugs. And, to speak for myself, the books would seem so negative that it was almost a must to separate myself from the life of Pookie and 'nem*
 |
K'wan stayed and chatted and signed books for all of us! |
When Vanessa asked me to be in her book group I was just flattered to be thought of as a colleague. When I found out that we were reading Street Lit, I thought I would just roll with it; as one of two I am often asked about "our Books" and I felt like I needed to get out of my rut of fantasy, mystery and wimpy kids.
Again, like some genres I found myself wondering how in the world some folks were published. I pondered who the audience some of the books were and I was exposed to K'wan. K'wan has written and published 13 books, is a motivational speaker and the CEO of Black Dawn Inc. He not only writes, he discovers and encourages up and coming writers to develop their talent and enter into successful writing careers.
My library didn't have any of his books. Any type of Street lit, Urban lit, novel by popular Black authors unfortunately disappear within weeks of being catalogued so I had to request his book from member libraries. Hoodrat arrived first and after forgetting to take it with me, finishing up my other book and just being a bit intimidated, I picked it up. From the first page I was hooked! I felt like I was in Harlem right along with Rhonda, Yoshi, Billy and Reese as they loved, fought, lived. As I read, I found myself taken by just how wonderful the book was as well as wanting more. The characters seemed so real; they were vividly described and introduced and I found myself literally laughing out loud at some of the scenes or gasping during others.
When the book club met K'wan, I wasn't sure what to expect. Most authors I have met are regular Joes and Josephines: people who's job just happens to be putting pen to paper. There have been a few who love themselves but hey, if you don';t believe in yourself then why should we? K'wan was neither. He was funny, shared himself and made me eager for more. He answered all of our crazy library questions and also shared some freebies from two of his new authors.
A young patron and I have been reading the books together. Eagerly she comes in to ask me about my progress and we discuss the characters. I am so happy to have been introduced to his works. Due to my past prejudice as well as my own stubbornness I would have missed a fantastic author, a fabulous series and an opportunity to connect with a patron.
Not hood but totally digging it,
-r
*I've not read a book about anyone named Pookie but that seemed like a perfect example
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Blog Tour
Since so many people have been to visit my little piece of cyber space I wanted to return the favor. As I posted on Best Post of the Week I came across this blog which had me literally laugh out loud! LLOL!
Wrestling with Retirement has decided that we bloggers should Go Green and make use of the capshas that are there to guard against spammers.
Effin Guy started blogging and it's about time too. We always have phenomenal conversations, can sit and chat for hours about everything and nothing and he can wax enthusiastically about a plethora of things. I was a tad embarrassed about this post; I can't take a compliment. However after I blushed, squeeed and blushed some more I felt ready to share.
Where would I be without my friend Vanessa? We met at a conference and then through Facebook. She invited me to her book club and we have been cool ever since. Every time I start feeling like I can't she rings in with words of advice, encouragement and just makes me want to do better. She even has me reading and digging Street Lit, something I had swore off because some were guilty of tired plots, horrific grammatical and spelling errors and just awful. Her first book is coming out and here is a preview about why she rocks.
Of course I can't forget my sister! She is one of the reasons that I write today. When we were kids we shared a room and would tell each other stories instead of taking our butts to bed. (If only I had an assigned bedtime these days...) When we were a bit older we were always writing stories about misfit kids, crushes, and fashion faux pas. You know, teen aged angst. Now we both blog about whatever and it's fun. Here is my favorite post from her blog: Girl in the 'Hood.
Last for today (cause it's almost time for me to boogie!) is the Field Negro. He lives in Killadelphia (Filthydelphia or Philadelphia) and writes about issues that I wish I had the balls to tackle. His latest post is on Terry Gross and her treatment of Jay-Z. I haven't had the opportunity to listen to the interview or completely read his post but in the past he has been fair, entertaining and has inspired me to read and research to get more information.
Most of these are linked to my page. Check them for yourself, don't forget to leave a comment and stop back next week for more Blog Tours!
Surfin' for your pleasure,
-r
Wrestling with Retirement has decided that we bloggers should Go Green and make use of the capshas that are there to guard against spammers.
Effin Guy started blogging and it's about time too. We always have phenomenal conversations, can sit and chat for hours about everything and nothing and he can wax enthusiastically about a plethora of things. I was a tad embarrassed about this post; I can't take a compliment. However after I blushed, squeeed and blushed some more I felt ready to share.
Where would I be without my friend Vanessa? We met at a conference and then through Facebook. She invited me to her book club and we have been cool ever since. Every time I start feeling like I can't she rings in with words of advice, encouragement and just makes me want to do better. She even has me reading and digging Street Lit, something I had swore off because some were guilty of tired plots, horrific grammatical and spelling errors and just awful. Her first book is coming out and here is a preview about why she rocks.
Of course I can't forget my sister! She is one of the reasons that I write today. When we were kids we shared a room and would tell each other stories instead of taking our butts to bed. (If only I had an assigned bedtime these days...) When we were a bit older we were always writing stories about misfit kids, crushes, and fashion faux pas. You know, teen aged angst. Now we both blog about whatever and it's fun. Here is my favorite post from her blog: Girl in the 'Hood.
Last for today (cause it's almost time for me to boogie!) is the Field Negro. He lives in Killadelphia (Filthydelphia or Philadelphia) and writes about issues that I wish I had the balls to tackle. His latest post is on Terry Gross and her treatment of Jay-Z. I haven't had the opportunity to listen to the interview or completely read his post but in the past he has been fair, entertaining and has inspired me to read and research to get more information.
Most of these are linked to my page. Check them for yourself, don't forget to leave a comment and stop back next week for more Blog Tours!
Surfin' for your pleasure,
-r
Finally FInished...NOTHING!
Gah!
The task of making Christmas gifts for everyone has not even begin. My ambitious dreams were just that: a dream. Instead of starting somewhere (say, pick out a pattern or go through my stash of yarn) I've been self sabotaging myself by exercising every right as the Queen of Procrastination.
The days are ticking down (27 to be exact) and not a single stitch has been stitched.
Deep breaths.
Regrouping I am starting again.
This week's hooking goals:
Three squares for Warm Up America (two down, one to go!)
A scarf for The Bee's bus driver. He's always pleasant when I call him
Wrist warmers for Beergeekgirl. Cause she bought the yarn and it's kinda tacky for me not to.
Finishing the hat for Veronica. It's only two months late.
Will check in tomorrow.
Gotta get to hooking.
-r
 |
| Holy time is flying Batman! The holidays approach! |
The days are ticking down (27 to be exact) and not a single stitch has been stitched.
Deep breaths.
Regrouping I am starting again.
This week's hooking goals:
Three squares for Warm Up America (two down, one to go!)
A scarf for The Bee's bus driver. He's always pleasant when I call him
Wrist warmers for Beergeekgirl. Cause she bought the yarn and it's kinda tacky for me not to.
Finishing the hat for Veronica. It's only two months late.
Will check in tomorrow.
Gotta get to hooking.
-r
Excuse me, I was told Zachary Levi would be here?
In which The Bee and I watch the newest princess in Tangled.
My first thoughts when I heard about Tangled, the story of Rapunzel were a tad on the pessimistic side. The Bee and I had read and loved Shannon and Dean Hale's awesome graphic novel, Rapunzel's Revenge and both agreed that THIS was the movie to be made. Golly knows that while there may be one little girl who hadn't had her fill of princesses this Wild West adaptation of the fairytale was not to be missed. Alas, as Disney advertised it's newest movie ad-nauseum during The Suite Life, Hannah Montana and Sonny with a Chance The Bee eagerly declared that we should see the movie. Of course after hearing that Zachary Levi, he of Chuck fame*, was voicing the thief Flynn Rider, I was ready to go.
My grumpiness against the lack of wild west aside, I enjoyed the movie somewhat. Unlike last year's The Frog Princess** there wasn't that obvious Disney cookie cutter mold available when the movie was being made. That did nothing but spotlight the that the Disney magic is waning and alas, there will be no Rapunzel gear to decorate the homestead.
Points for the movie:
Twins, evil but twins nonetheless. Being a twin I loved the Stabbington Brothers voiced by Hellboy himself, Ron Perlman. One even had an eye patch and they were delightfully evil!
Zachary Levi as Flynn Rider. Sigh! How adorable is TVs Chuck? Add lovable scoundrel and this blogger is all a gaga! He was great as the crook with a heart of gold and I so enjoyed his smoulder.
Now for the nitpicky Rachee stuff.
The evil mother figure. What is the deal? The pseudo feminist in me screams at the idea of a woman so obsessed with remaining young that she kidnaps and emotionally abuses Rapunzel. And that Mother Knows Best song! I am calling shenanigans Disney for that line about Rapunzel being chubby (Yes, I am having a fat girl week).
The lackluster songs. Boo! The songs didn't feel organic to the movie. Usually there is some scene to set the songs buts here there were none. There was the I need to change something in my life song, the bad guy song, the villain song (the passive aggressive Mother Knows Best...SHENANIGANS!) and the oh! we're falling in love song but none had me ready to hop on iTunes to download them. The Bee really liked the songs but I chalk some of that up to the videos that play on Disney Channel and Radio Disney. When I asked her about them earlier today she was unimpressed but did say she wanted to see the movie again.
The violence. I know Disney will kill a mother (Nemo, Bambi) but Flynn was whacked repeatedly by Rapunzel's fry pan, Flynn himself whacked a few guards with the pan. But not the horse. Which is some type of commentary on our society that telling. Yes, it's OK for HUMANS to get their butts kicked but an animal? Call PETA!
The obvious toys to be sold. The baby Rapunzel looks like a doll that Arboo already owns! I can see the wigs, castle and Flynn Rider gear already.
The fact that the movie was only available in Disney 3D. This is more my bitch than a legitimate gripe about the movie but dang! There was some cool moments; water splashing, things falling from the sky but for the most part it was like looking at the movie through a viewmaster. Some scenes did pop off of the screen but that still does not excuse the 25 bucks we paid to experience the movie in 3D.
I tried not read reviews but the few I did waxed poetically about the return to Disney at its best (what?) and mentioned that this was the 50th animated release. Ghost cheer!
My rating from my oh so awesome scale: Fair. While overall the movie was cute, I think I'll watch an episode of Chuck and wait for Cars 2.
Really good: Would see in a theater, full price
Good: Would see in a theater, matinee with smuggled in snacks
Fair: Will wait until it comes to the library (cause I can rent for free for a week in Philly or a buck in Delco for three days)
Poor: Will wait until it comes to premium cable
Awful: Will wait until it comes to regular cable (aka TNT, USA, etc)
God awful: Will wait until it comes on network television and I am too lazy or impaired to find the remote to change the channel
-r
*I may not care for Chuck the show but I love me some Chuck the actor.
**Which still makes me wonder why the princess had to be turned into a nasty frog but whatever.
My first thoughts when I heard about Tangled, the story of Rapunzel were a tad on the pessimistic side. The Bee and I had read and loved Shannon and Dean Hale's awesome graphic novel, Rapunzel's Revenge and both agreed that THIS was the movie to be made. Golly knows that while there may be one little girl who hadn't had her fill of princesses this Wild West adaptation of the fairytale was not to be missed. Alas, as Disney advertised it's newest movie ad-nauseum during The Suite Life, Hannah Montana and Sonny with a Chance The Bee eagerly declared that we should see the movie. Of course after hearing that Zachary Levi, he of Chuck fame*, was voicing the thief Flynn Rider, I was ready to go.
My grumpiness against the lack of wild west aside, I enjoyed the movie somewhat. Unlike last year's The Frog Princess** there wasn't that obvious Disney cookie cutter mold available when the movie was being made. That did nothing but spotlight the that the Disney magic is waning and alas, there will be no Rapunzel gear to decorate the homestead.
Points for the movie:
Twins, evil but twins nonetheless. Being a twin I loved the Stabbington Brothers voiced by Hellboy himself, Ron Perlman. One even had an eye patch and they were delightfully evil!
Zachary Levi as Flynn Rider. Sigh! How adorable is TVs Chuck? Add lovable scoundrel and this blogger is all a gaga! He was great as the crook with a heart of gold and I so enjoyed his smoulder.
Now for the nitpicky Rachee stuff.
The evil mother figure. What is the deal? The pseudo feminist in me screams at the idea of a woman so obsessed with remaining young that she kidnaps and emotionally abuses Rapunzel. And that Mother Knows Best song! I am calling shenanigans Disney for that line about Rapunzel being chubby (Yes, I am having a fat girl week).
The lackluster songs. Boo! The songs didn't feel organic to the movie. Usually there is some scene to set the songs buts here there were none. There was the I need to change something in my life song, the bad guy song, the villain song (the passive aggressive Mother Knows Best...SHENANIGANS!) and the oh! we're falling in love song but none had me ready to hop on iTunes to download them. The Bee really liked the songs but I chalk some of that up to the videos that play on Disney Channel and Radio Disney. When I asked her about them earlier today she was unimpressed but did say she wanted to see the movie again.
The violence. I know Disney will kill a mother (Nemo, Bambi) but Flynn was whacked repeatedly by Rapunzel's fry pan, Flynn himself whacked a few guards with the pan. But not the horse. Which is some type of commentary on our society that telling. Yes, it's OK for HUMANS to get their butts kicked but an animal? Call PETA!
The obvious toys to be sold. The baby Rapunzel looks like a doll that Arboo already owns! I can see the wigs, castle and Flynn Rider gear already.
The fact that the movie was only available in Disney 3D. This is more my bitch than a legitimate gripe about the movie but dang! There was some cool moments; water splashing, things falling from the sky but for the most part it was like looking at the movie through a viewmaster. Some scenes did pop off of the screen but that still does not excuse the 25 bucks we paid to experience the movie in 3D.
I tried not read reviews but the few I did waxed poetically about the return to Disney at its best (what?) and mentioned that this was the 50th animated release. Ghost cheer!
My rating from my oh so awesome scale: Fair. While overall the movie was cute, I think I'll watch an episode of Chuck and wait for Cars 2.
Really good: Would see in a theater, full price
Good: Would see in a theater, matinee with smuggled in snacks
Fair: Will wait until it comes to the library (cause I can rent for free for a week in Philly or a buck in Delco for three days)
Poor: Will wait until it comes to premium cable
Awful: Will wait until it comes to regular cable (aka TNT, USA, etc)
God awful: Will wait until it comes on network television and I am too lazy or impaired to find the remote to change the channel
-r
*I may not care for Chuck the show but I love me some Chuck the actor.
**Which still makes me wonder why the princess had to be turned into a nasty frog but whatever.
Clowning Around
 |
| A couple of swells |
The e-mail read:
'Things to do with your kid in the Philadelphia area: Volunteer for the oldest parade in the country!'
As I read through the message I remembered fondly my time as a balloon handler (a score ago!) and duly signed myself and The Bee up to volunteer in the 6ABC/Ikea Thanksgiving Day parade. I waited for our assignments and forgot about the parade until I got an e-mail of our assignments:
Clown Group Two. I told The Bee and happily she was ready to participate instead of watch this year's festivities.
The weeks before The Bee would call from The Dad's to ask what how she needed to prepare, what we would be expected to do, and other questions that the she felt begged to be answered leading up to the parade. She would talk about clowning techniques (she would dance and I could juggle), she would wax enthusiastically about overcoming her fear of clowns now that she was going to participate as one and she worried about whether people would recognize her.
The night before the parade she harassed me into setting alarms as well as demanded to know when I was going to bed, laid our her clothes for the next day and then fell asleep in that coma like manner that always terrifies me. Soon after I drifted off and awoke to The Weather Girls proclaiming, "It's Raining Men" and kid who jumped up and quickly dressed and then demanded I hurry.
Driving along I was told to "stop acting like Miss Daisy" and get there faster, to get gas on the way back and tsked when I took the wrong exit on 676 (sorry!).
 |
| Registration. Less than three minutes to check in! |
The behind the scenes of the parade were run like a well oiled machine! Signs in the lobby directed us towards registration, the complimentary breakfast as well as where we were to go for costumes and makeup.
Total all about me (AAMA) aside: The many moons ago that I participated I remember chaos as Buffy and I tried to find our assigned captain and costumes, being cold and being cold. The use of the Sheraton was excellent as we had a warm place to stay, a warm breakfast, coffee (!) and a relaxing place to wait as we ate.
It was so mush fun! The crowd was great, the energy was positive and I was so proud to be a Philadelphian! I can't wait for next year; The Bee has already decided that she will get confetti to throw as well as some little toys for kids.
Here are some pictures from the day. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday! We sure did!
 |
| The Bee sipping apple juice, the only thing she would eat that morning |
 |
| Such a reserved and polite breakfast |
 |
| A kid from clown group 1 and The Bee |
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| The Bee after makeup |
 |
| Getting my makeup |
 |
| Some kids waiting for the bus |
 |
| The professional clowns. Lit like a match though |
 |
| Our view from 20th and JFK as we waited for our start |
 |
The Bee and me waiting to start |
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| CJ, she does this every year! |
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| Us being silly |
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The crowd LOVED Brandy! |
 |
| Brandy was so nice to The Bee. She has a new fan. |
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Scott, he was in charge of getting us out on time. |
 |
On the Parkway near the end of the parade route |
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| What a 4AM wake up looks like at 3PM |
Friday, November 19, 2010
Five for Friday
...cause I didn't do this on Tuesday.
Yes, yes. I am biting off of some other blogs weekly wrap up. Not that I feel the need to justify myself but Tuesday the thing I wanted to blog about was so boo-hooey that I got on my own nerves and a bunch of stuff happened in the last two days that I need to mull over.
1) Middle School Madness continues.
Sigh!
It seems that my child has gone mad! The Bee has declared that whilst her homework was completed, she just 'didn't feel like turning it in'.
The Dad and I met with her teacher who is just as puzzled. The Bee said all of the right things (I will turn in my homework, I want to do well, I will ask for help) yet the blase attitude seems to be in full effect.
I swear I don't remember being like this in school. I suppose with the threat of an a$$ kickin' from my mom, aunt and grandmother I blindly did what I was told. I am not a parent who believes in corporal punishment but I am at my wits end! Of all of the things to screw with school is not it.
I've no solution at this point in time. All I know is that I want the best for someone who seems to think that she's fighting an uphill battle alone.
Help!
2) I lost a co-worker.
A former co-worker was diagnosed with leukemia about six months ago and while preparing for my crazy summer, preparing to move, getting caught up in the thing that is me I let days, weeks, months slide by without a single thought. As cliched as it sounds I am glad that she won't have to suffer anymore but I wish I had found time to pick up a phone and call her, finish the hat I was to make for her, send a card something that let her know I was thinking about her and rooting for her.
She always reminded me a bit of my mom. Not the they were both sick thing but the way the both of them love, love, love their grand children. She would wax happily about spending time with them and share stories of how she'd surprise them at school or would order books that they would enjoy.
When I was first offered the job as Children's Chick she pulled me to the side and asked if I were really ready for the position. Me, being me, was a tad put off but in hindsight I could see that she wasn't being negative; she was making sure that I knew the job wasn't all storytimes and turkeys to cut out. I hope she rests in peace and that her family can remember her.
I think I'll eat a cookie in her honor.
3) The Hatfields and McCoys aka Mom and Buffy are at it again.
Despite being ten deep, my family stays mixed up in some type of nonsense. My sister and mom are fighting about missed/mixed messages; a soured perception and frankly it's exhausting. So close to the holidays, a stressful time in itself that I am ready to wave a white flag.
It's not mine to fight but if either of you read this: be the bigger person and please let that go.
It's a royal pain in the tuckus.I hate being in the middle of family drama.
Without being gross I'll just say the older and more out shape I am, the more unpredictable my body seems to be. All week long I have been feeling weepy, hopeless and dumpy. The big ass* pimple on my nose is the reason why.
Screw you Mother Nature!
5) A High note:
Spent some time with Arboo this week. As she read through a "teach your kid to read book" she ran across what I would call sight words: 'the', 'he', 'and' et cetera.
"Hey!" She exclaimed. "These are some of my high frequency words!"
Love it!
Later gators.
-r
*I cussed cause I look like effin' Rudolph!
Monday, November 15, 2010
New Blog!
Hi Friends!
I've decided enough is enough and will be chronicling my weight loss, fitness and nutrition efforts on a new blog: Look Better Naked. The change has come because I want to use Say it Rah-shay in a more professional way. Forreals!
Pop over, let me know what you think, and wish me luck!
-r
I've decided enough is enough and will be chronicling my weight loss, fitness and nutrition efforts on a new blog: Look Better Naked. The change has come because I want to use Say it Rah-shay in a more professional way. Forreals!
Pop over, let me know what you think, and wish me luck!
-r
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
I may have been born at night...
...but it wasn't last night.
On the real, I am not sure what time I was born.
I received this gem in my work e-mail:
Idiot!
-r
On the real, I am not sure what time I was born.
I received this gem in my work e-mail:
REWhy oh why does this clown think that not only am I stupid enough to fall for this, that I would contact someone who is offering me a million dollars on a g-mail account? I mean, Google rules the cyberworld but dang! Wouldn't this person have it more together?
This is to notify you of a payment Order of $11.5m into Atm Card in your
name from the
Ecobank plc,advice to reconfirm us 1 your Name 2Address 3
Phone
Contact our Head of Shipment payment Ecobank plc and make sure you
Contact us on this email address eco.bnigeria220@gmail.com for the Shipment.
Dr.John Adams
Cell +2348087675079
Idiot!
-r
Yarn things
Um, the 'Finally Finished' button on my blog was designed to spur me on and (judgement free) encourage me to finish lingering UFOs and the like. So far I have done none of the waiting to be done projects and started a new one:
The College Girl Hat (aka Vickie Howell's Urban Beanie)
I changed the name as I am working it up while working at my college gig and I'm a girl.
Get it?
I also came up with the bright idea to have a creative, handmade holiday! No one would get store bought gifts except for the kids cause
1) I'm broke
2) I don't feel like thinking about all of that shopping (effin' mall traffic!)
3) I've got yarn let me use it.
Oh and and 4) cause I don't put enough pressure on myself normally, crafting 10 plus items is certainly the way to go. (Tongue firmly pressed in cheek!)
So driving in I listened to the Yarncraft podcast hosted by Liz and Zontee and was inspired. While they are not foolish enough to commit to making gifts for everyone they did supply some wonderful ideas that could be worked up quickly.
So far I am digging:
The Crochet Tote.
Pop and her friend have been begging for a bag so here it is!
Chili Pepper Cowl
While I am no fan of cowls (I think of Batman) I think Mom and Charleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeene would love one since they are always cold.
For the men I found a new stitch on the Knit and Crochet Today website (I swear I can't find the link now! Boo!)
This particular square looks masculine enough that I am going to make a scarf with it. My friend completed a square and it looked wonderful. I am going to give it a go and see what I can make with it.
I heard today there were 45 days until Christmas.
So my hook is my mate.
-r
The College Girl Hat (aka Vickie Howell's Urban Beanie)
I changed the name as I am working it up while working at my college gig and I'm a girl.
Get it?
 |
| The Tangled Yarn represents my mind... |
 |
| A WIP that I started to avoid UFOs |
I also came up with the bright idea to have a creative, handmade holiday! No one would get store bought gifts except for the kids cause
1) I'm broke
2) I don't feel like thinking about all of that shopping (effin' mall traffic!)
3) I've got yarn let me use it.
Oh and and 4) cause I don't put enough pressure on myself normally, crafting 10 plus items is certainly the way to go. (Tongue firmly pressed in cheek!)
So driving in I listened to the Yarncraft podcast hosted by Liz and Zontee and was inspired. While they are not foolish enough to commit to making gifts for everyone they did supply some wonderful ideas that could be worked up quickly.
So far I am digging:
The Crochet Tote.
Pop and her friend have been begging for a bag so here it is!
Chili Pepper Cowl
While I am no fan of cowls (I think of Batman) I think Mom and Charleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeene would love one since they are always cold.
For the men I found a new stitch on the Knit and Crochet Today website (I swear I can't find the link now! Boo!)
This particular square looks masculine enough that I am going to make a scarf with it. My friend completed a square and it looked wonderful. I am going to give it a go and see what I can make with it.
I heard today there were 45 days until Christmas.
So my hook is my mate.
-r
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Not Another Lazy Facebook Post!
My friend Deb tagged me in this note and it's actually pretty fun.
The Rule of Three
Here goes:
THREE NAMES I GO BY
1. Mommy
2. Missy
3. Moooooommmmyyyyy!
THREE JOBS I HAVE HAD IN MY LIFE
1. Library Chick
2. Customer Service Rep
3. Unit Clerk (although if I honestly look back I could call it Unit Jerk!)
THREE PLACES I HAVE LIVED (only 3??)
1 Philly
2. Upper Darby
3. No where else (sheesh! I need to get out more!)
THREE TV SHOWS THAT I WATCH
1. America's Next Top Model
2. The Simpsons
3. Law & Order
THREE PLACES I HAVE BEEN
1. Aruba
2. Kissemee, FL
3. Long Island, NY
THREE PLACES I WANT TO GO
1. Scotland
2. California
3. Back to Aruba
THREE OF MY FAVORITE FOODS
1. Pepperoni Pizza
2. Tacos
3. Sushi (thanks Effin Guy!)
THINGS I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO
1. financial security
2. My mom getting a kidney
3. Finishing School
THREE PETS THAT YOU HAVE HAD
1. Cat (Buttons, Hooks and Socks)
2. Multiple GOldfish
3. Does a mouse running through the house count?
THREE FAVORITE BANDS/SINGERS
1. Nina Simone
2. Alice Russell
3. Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings
THREE FAVORITE TEAMS TO WATCH
1. Philadelphia Eagles
2. Washington Redskins
3. Phillies (sorta)
THREE FAVORITE DRINKS
1. Coffee
2. Pepsi Max
3. Water
What's your three?
The Rule of Three
Here goes:
THREE NAMES I GO BY
1. Mommy
2. Missy
3. Moooooommmmyyyyy!
THREE JOBS I HAVE HAD IN MY LIFE
1. Library Chick
2. Customer Service Rep
3. Unit Clerk (although if I honestly look back I could call it Unit Jerk!)
THREE PLACES I HAVE LIVED (only 3??)
1 Philly
2. Upper Darby
3. No where else (sheesh! I need to get out more!)
THREE TV SHOWS THAT I WATCH
1. America's Next Top Model
2. The Simpsons
3. Law & Order
THREE PLACES I HAVE BEEN
1. Aruba
2. Kissemee, FL
3. Long Island, NY
THREE PLACES I WANT TO GO
1. Scotland
2. California
3. Back to Aruba
THREE OF MY FAVORITE FOODS
1. Pepperoni Pizza
2. Tacos
3. Sushi (thanks Effin Guy!)
THINGS I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO
1. financial security
2. My mom getting a kidney
3. Finishing School
THREE PETS THAT YOU HAVE HAD
1. Cat (Buttons, Hooks and Socks)
2. Multiple GOldfish
3. Does a mouse running through the house count?
THREE FAVORITE BANDS/SINGERS
1. Nina Simone
2. Alice Russell
3. Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings
THREE FAVORITE TEAMS TO WATCH
1. Philadelphia Eagles
2. Washington Redskins
3. Phillies (sorta)
THREE FAVORITE DRINKS
1. Coffee
2. Pepsi Max
3. Water
What's your three?
Good Will Hillenbrand
Or artistlust begins.
Please to note: I am going through and updating some drafts that I never finished. The level of suck, erm quality may vary.
I cannot tell a lie. Art is something that intrigues and harasses me. Since I can't draw a lick I tend to hold artists up along with doctors and nurses: Gee they are awesome but I'm a little envious at their awesomeness. So a few months ago I was able to meet artist/illustrator Will Hillenbrand and all of my artist envy flies out the door for he is a wonderful, wonderful man!
Anywho, what a nice guy! He was adorable, dancing along to the What a Treasure song that the UD Kindergarten kids made up and sang for him, he was kind enough to pose for a plethora of photos with me, other Delco librarians and some random staffers who popped in. And he told me that I can draw.
Yes, me who screws up a stick figure and makes tress that look like varying levels of fluff, can draw.
Since I lost my notes from that day (I had a whole 'thing' planned) I will just go with my favorite Will Hillenbrand illustrated books.
Sleep Big Bear, Sleep (But Big Bear doesn't hear very well...)
What a Treasure!
Down on the Farm by Merrily Kutner
Fiddle-I-Fee
T'was The Fright Before Christmas by Judy Sierra (who is also awesome!)
Kiss the Cow by Phyllis Root
Down By The Station by Will Hillenbrand. (Dill had gone through a train stage and well, this was one thing that we could read together)
The Last Snake in Ireland: A Story About St. Patrick (Throwing a bone to Effin Guy)
The Biggest, Best Snowman, by Margery Cuyler.
-r
Please to note: I am going through and updating some drafts that I never finished. The level of suck, erm quality may vary.
I cannot tell a lie. Art is something that intrigues and harasses me. Since I can't draw a lick I tend to hold artists up along with doctors and nurses: Gee they are awesome but I'm a little envious at their awesomeness. So a few months ago I was able to meet artist/illustrator Will Hillenbrand and all of my artist envy flies out the door for he is a wonderful, wonderful man!
 |
| At the time I didn't realize he was the artist for my new favorite Bear book! Squee! |
He was the illustrator of 2010's PA One Book, Every Young Child's "What a Treasure!". The book, illustrated by his wife, is the sweet story of a mole digging for treasure.
 |
| Will and I! |
Yes, me who screws up a stick figure and makes tress that look like varying levels of fluff, can draw.
Since I lost my notes from that day (I had a whole 'thing' planned) I will just go with my favorite Will Hillenbrand illustrated books.
Sleep Big Bear, Sleep (But Big Bear doesn't hear very well...)
What a Treasure!
Down on the Farm by Merrily Kutner
Fiddle-I-Fee
T'was The Fright Before Christmas by Judy Sierra (who is also awesome!)
Kiss the Cow by Phyllis Root
Down By The Station by Will Hillenbrand. (Dill had gone through a train stage and well, this was one thing that we could read together)
The Last Snake in Ireland: A Story About St. Patrick (Throwing a bone to Effin Guy)
The Biggest, Best Snowman, by Margery Cuyler.
-r
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Thoughtful Tuesdays: What next
Each time I return from a workshop, conference or similar I bottom out. I am high from the ideas crashing through my head and giddy at the possibilities of what I can and will do however, reality rudely comes in and BOOM! I am feeling grumpy, whiny and ready to chuck it all for that age old question: Would you like fries with that?
Anywho, before the negative thought patterns could creep in, a few things happened:
1) The Bee got 'sick' which delayed me returning to work right away
2) This year I finally feel like I know what it is I am doing thus somewhat easing the fear that I am going to screw up some kid's mind and life due to a bad book recommendation
3) I stopped thinking about things and just did it.
The Bee's 'ailment' caused me to rethink what I expect from her and what I accept from her. She is a bright child and seems way older than her tween age but she is just that: a tween. I cannot expect more from her while I wallow in more of the same. I cannot demand that she be responsible when I am Queen of Procrastination, Empress of UFOs. I have rethought my position of negative attention (punishing her until she was in high school) and decided to focus on her positive (not letting her slide but acknowledging that she screwed around but will get a do over...everyone gets one!).
So far she seems on board. It's been two days so the jury is still out. However I am confident that we will get through Middle School Madness and happily move on to High School Antics.
My confidence level has been raised from some wonderful librarians from Pittsburgh and of course Dewey Decimal Dude. The Pitt librarians kept joking that I should come work with them, and that they were excited to see me again. DDD was ever helpful as he chatted me up with ideas for next year's conference, cause, like, he thinks I can do it (SQUEE!) Seriously, I felt like I was on par with most of the people there and I had a blast! I don't have any regrets, worries or that stupid feeling that lingers in my head telling me what I did wring each step of the way.
Lastly, just doing it.
Not thinking about it, talking about it, pondering. Putting words into action and things got done.
November is going to be good; I am not stalling and just going forth. Some things may be awesome, some may be a woomp, woomp, woomp! Either way I want to say, yes, I did it, no one was harmed and it will just be.
Doing thoughts I thunk before,
-r
Anywho, before the negative thought patterns could creep in, a few things happened:
1) The Bee got 'sick' which delayed me returning to work right away
2) This year I finally feel like I know what it is I am doing thus somewhat easing the fear that I am going to screw up some kid's mind and life due to a bad book recommendation
3) I stopped thinking about things and just did it.
The Bee's 'ailment' caused me to rethink what I expect from her and what I accept from her. She is a bright child and seems way older than her tween age but she is just that: a tween. I cannot expect more from her while I wallow in more of the same. I cannot demand that she be responsible when I am Queen of Procrastination, Empress of UFOs. I have rethought my position of negative attention (punishing her until she was in high school) and decided to focus on her positive (not letting her slide but acknowledging that she screwed around but will get a do over...everyone gets one!).
So far she seems on board. It's been two days so the jury is still out. However I am confident that we will get through Middle School Madness and happily move on to High School Antics.
My confidence level has been raised from some wonderful librarians from Pittsburgh and of course Dewey Decimal Dude. The Pitt librarians kept joking that I should come work with them, and that they were excited to see me again. DDD was ever helpful as he chatted me up with ideas for next year's conference, cause, like, he thinks I can do it (SQUEE!) Seriously, I felt like I was on par with most of the people there and I had a blast! I don't have any regrets, worries or that stupid feeling that lingers in my head telling me what I did wring each step of the way.
Lastly, just doing it.
Not thinking about it, talking about it, pondering. Putting words into action and things got done.
November is going to be good; I am not stalling and just going forth. Some things may be awesome, some may be a woomp, woomp, woomp! Either way I want to say, yes, I did it, no one was harmed and it will just be.
Doing thoughts I thunk before,
-r
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