Family Affair

Halloween Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:36:00 +0000

Usually, Halloween is not one of my favorite times of celebration. I went a few years, before my daughter was born, of not having to deal with it. However, since she's been in daycare and now in school, she has bugged me for the past month about "going to Halloween".

In Petula's post "What are you going to wear?". The first thing that came to mind was during my high school years when Petula and I dressed up and went trick or treating. It brings back some good memories! During this particular Halloween, I believe it was 1985, we dressed as fast food workers. It was easy to pull off because we both worked at a fast food joint. I know there's a picture of us floating around, I'll have to check to see if I still have it.

Usually, I don't dress up for Halloween but this year I may reconsider. I've had some ideas floating in my head but nothing concrete, yet. Just earlier today, I thought about doing something from the 60's or 70's. I am fond of these years especially the music and style of dress. I'm contemplating doing something cool and funky nothing risque!

The Princess has selected her costume of choice...HANNA MONTANA. I'm truly excited to see the first ever African-American version of Hanna Montana. Our last trip to Walmart yielded a costume and a blonde long-haired wig. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures--I'm anxious to see how this one turns out.

Down to the Wire

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:18:00 +0000

Well, it's down to the wire and about two weeks left until the Presidential election. I'm not one that talks a lot of politics, except with family and close friends. Please know it's not my intention to force my political views on my readers. However, I have to share an exciting little story about Kyle and our right to vote.

Prior to Kyle becoming an adult on his birthday, he mentioned several times of his desire to register to vote. He had periodically been checking out the news for updates on the political arena. I have to say that in past years, I hadn't heard of a big push for voter registration until this election. Also, you don't hear of many teenagers being excited about voting. Well, needless to say, I have one excited teen in my home.

To make my story short, since I wasn't able to get Kyle to our election office due to timing, he proactively went to the Rock the Vote website. He filled out the form and I mailed it for him along with a copy of his ID. Within ten days, he was holding his first official voter registration card.

I say, "WAY TO GO KYLE". I'm proud that he has taken the initiative to exercise his voting rights.

Adopt-a-Highway

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 01:15:00 +0000

Since the loss of my nephew, Vaughn, we (his family) felt there was more we could do to keep his memory alive. As of October 7, 2008, we have become the "adoptive parents" of two miles of Delaware's Route 300 from Everett's Corner Road to Downs Chapel Road. This is the stretch of road where Vaughn lost his life.

According to Delware's Department of Transporation website, to adopt-a-highway the individual, organization or business is responsible for keeping that stretch of the highway clean for two years. We have the option of reapplying every two years, if we wish. In addition, signs will be posted along this stretch of road advertising that it's in memory of Vaughn Harris. My sisters, Carolyn (Vaughn's mother) and Arlene thought that this could be something we can do in Vaughn's name for the years to come. In addition, we are giving back to the community at the same time.

So, with that being said, if you are local and wish to be a part of the cleaning crew, let one of us know. We will schedule the cleaning days when possible and make sure that everyone knows when they will be. Please know that you are not obligated to participate. There will be signs posted on Delaware 300 to let you know exactly what part we are to keep clean. Please pass this along to whomever you think might want to be a part of this wonderful endeavor.

Wanna Know My "Real Age"?

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 23:03:00 +0000

As usual, I visited my good friend Petula's blog over at It's a Woman's World and she's interested in knowing your "real age". I, too, have had instances where someone was mistaken about my "real" age. Allow me to briefly tell...

When I was about 32, I went into a liquor store to purchase beer for my husband. We're in a small town and some of the workers in the store know me by name. This particular day, the worker didn't know me nor did I know him. I thought I was going to make my purchase and high tail it out but noooo. I went in the store with only my form of payment and no identification--thinking I didn't need it. I put the beverage on the counter and the sales person asked to see my ID. I politely laughed and said I was old enough to purchase the item. I cooperatively ran out to the car to grab my purchase and handed him my ID. He apparently looked at my DOB and said "you look like you're no more than 19". I said, "WHAT", smiling the entire time. I was truly flattered and have told this story ever since.

Anyway, getting back to the subject at hand. I took the RealAge Test and my results are...drum roll please...my "realage" is 43.6, 4 years more than my original age. I don't think that's bad at all. The reason for my increase is because, I don't do any type of physical activity AND my weight is an issue. Other than that, I'm fine. I need to get it movin' and really increase my physical activity.

Happy 8th Anniversary!

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 02:22:00 +0000

(don't take any stock into this photo, it was taken 4 years ago)

Well, the day has come and almost gone. Today is my 8th wedding anniversary and I'm as happy today as I was October 7, 2000. I thank the almighty for each day I have with my husband, Pete. Nowadays, many married couples are making the decision to go their separate ways. I'm not passing judgment because I know working at a marriage is very hard work. I'm lucky I have a spouse who sticks it out for better or worse and we are able to compromise when it's needed.

Usually, on our anniversary, we go out to dinner (gotta love the food!) and that's what we did! However, we had to take the Princess with us. It's not easy finding a sitter, so we just tag her along. Don't even mention my 18 year-old keeping her for a few hours. We don't even go there...

Please enjoy this song anniversary song by 80's group Tony Toni Tone'. I loved this group when I was in school.

Falling Behind

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 22:53:00 +0000

At least a week ago, I received 2 awards from my friend Petula. I have to say that I truly apologize for not posting these sooner. I did do the Passing It One meme that I was tagged with. However, since time has passed, I'm even embarrassed to tag anyone else due to my lack of attention to detail.

1. Where is your cell phone? entertainment center
2. Where is your significant other? watching football
3. Your hair color? black
4. Your mother? witty
5. Your father? heaven
6. Your favorite thing? food
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your dream/goal? live comfortably
9. The room you’re in? office
10. Your hobby? surfing the 'net
11. Your fear? dying
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? retired?
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. What you’re not? gay
15. One of your wish-list items? Laptop and vacation away from home
16. Where you grew up? Maryland
17. The last thing you did? talked to mother
18. What are you wearing? clothes
19. Your TV? ancient
20. Your pet? None
21. Your computer? laptop
22. Your mood? good
23. Missing someone? yes
24. Your car? Ford
25. Something you’re not wearing? shoes
26. Favorite store? Super Wal-Mart
27. Your summer? good
28. Love someone? yes
29. Your favorite color? blue
30. When is the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? 1 month ago

Hunk a Burning Love

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:16:00 +0000

Hubba, hubba! How sweet it is to look at one of Hollywood's handsome men on television. Yes, I'm married but heck, I'm still human. This is Dennis Haysbert one of the main characters on CBS The Unit.

Sunday night I watched the season premiere of The Unit. I enjoy watching movies or television shows that involve government espionage, spying, the military, and of course some action. The Unit is one of those shows. You can also find Mr. Haysbert on the Allstate Insurance commercials.

Saving Money

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 22:42:00 +0000

Woo Hoo! Yesterday, I was truly elated to have something exciting come in the mail. I received coupons from one of the world's biggest manufacturer of household products, P&G (Proctor & Gamble). About a month ago I checked out their website P&G Everyday Solutions. I completed a survey online and weeks later I get coupons for money off some of my favorite products. Their website has an awful lot of information on saving plus a wealth of other information.

In our time of a weakening economy, families such as mine are finding ways to save in every facet of our lives. Before I do any shopping I always make a list and compare coupons with the sales. I get complete satisfaction by clipping coupons from the Sunday paper or printing them online.

So, head on over to P&G Everyday Solutions and check it out. I don't think you will be disappointed.

Going for Gold

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 01:56:00 +0000

A week ago Renee at Cutie Booty Cakes wrote a follow-up post, Do Something, to her original post, Making a Difference. Her posts were about getting involved and making a difference in the lives of others. She challenged blog readers to do something, get involved or volunteer. Although I'm fashionably late, a tad bid more than a week, I felt compelled to share what I will be doing.

I mentioned briefly in a previous post that my 9 to 5 job is working for the State's social service agency within my county. I am one of 50 people who know what making a difference means. I know you've probably heard about vulnerable children & adults falling through the social service cracks but you don't hear about the success stories.

Recently, my Assistant Director came to me and asked if I would co-chair the Maryland Charity Campaign for our agency. For a minute I hesitated, thinking...hmmmm, I've never done anything like this before. My AD asking me to co-chair also came from the request of our Director. Knowing this, the circumference of my head got a little bigger. Eagerly, I replied that I would. The theme for this year's campaign is "Go for the Gold: Champions Give in a Winning Way".

Maryland's Charity Campaign allows State employees the opportunity to give to over 700 charitable non-profit organizations. The over 700 charities serve the citizens of the State. State employees have the choice of selecting which charities they would like to donate. As co-chair for my agency, I will be responsible for coordinating "special events" to raise additional monies.

After getting an overview of the campaign from our liaison, I'm really gung-ho and ready to get started. My co-chair and I will make this year's events fun and memorable. This will also be a learning experience for me to do this more often.

Cup of Tea.....

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:16:00 +0000

From time to time, I receive non work-related emails from co-workers. I know you're probably saying, 'no personal business on government time', right? I only get these about twice each month, no more than that. I received this email a few days ago and thought I would share. I clearly pictured my daughter doing this with her dad and got a really good chuckle out of it. ENJOY!

Cup of Tea .....

One day my mother was out and my dad was in charge of me.

I was maybe 2 1/2 years old and had just recovered from an accident.

Someone had given me a little 'tea set' as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys.

Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news when I brought Daddy a little cup of 'tea', which was just water. After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea, my Mom came home.

My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was 'just the cutest thing!' My Mom waited, and sure enough, here I come down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy and she watches him drink it up.

Then she says, (as only a mother would know.. :)

'Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet'?

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 03:29:00 +0000

Mamma's little helper

Coupon Organizer Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 01:03:00 +0000

Head on over to Moms Helping Mom Save Money! There's a giveaway for a pretty nifty looking coupon organizer. If you're a Mom that saves, like me, having a coupon organizer makes life a bit easier.

So, head on over for more information on how to enter. Have fun and good luck!

What's In My Purse

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:03:00 +0000

My friend Petula tagged me with this and I couldn't resist. I have to say that I'm not embarrassed to reveal the contents of my purse. I know there are a lot of other women like me who tend to "throw" things in their purse. I consider my purse to be a catch all or basket for...whatever.Here are the rules: Find a safe quiet place free of significant others, nosey meme makers, priests, nuns, all things religious and men in general. (If you're a guy just reverse this process to male and tell us about your wallet, tool box, briefcase or metro sexual accessory.)

1. Dump the contents of your handbag in a pile.
2. Take a photo of your handbag and the contents.
3. Be brave and 'splain to your fellow bloggers what lurks inside the handbag.
4. Tag others who might want to embarrass themselves
5. Answer the questions below.

Describe the contents of your handbag.

When first looking at my bag, you would think it belonged to a hobo. It's out of shape and a bit flimsy. Believe me when I say, it was a stiffer shape than what you see above. I haven't changed purses in months 'cause this one seems to carry everything I need...even the kitchen sink. In my purse I have my monstrous sized wallet, keys for home & work, work ID badge, PDA, spare pair of socks for the Princess, frequent gambler club card, many many papers, items for dental care on the go and many other items (too many to name here :D).

What's the most important thing in your handbag?

The most important thing in my purse are the keys and wallet. Without each of them I'm totally lost.

What's the most embarrassing thing in your handbag?

There's nothing in my purse that I would consider to be embarrassing.

What's the smallest thing in your handbag?

Besides coins, tiny lint balls. Don't ask me how they got there 'cause I have no idea.

Is there anything illegal in your handbag?

No.

Cable/Satellite TV or Not

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 16:44:00 +0000

With the new digital requirement coming in February 2009, many households are being forced to either obtain the converter box or subscribe to cable or satellite service. My household currently uses cable service but over the last few months I've been trying to find ways to reduce my bill by removing some of my TV services. Now, I do have my phone & internet service with the same company but the TV service is the biggest part of the bill.

I made the decision to reduce the TV service to a value package. We still have our local channels, cartoons, etc--just not all the perks. To supplement our movie watching, I signed us up for Netflix. We had this service a year ago and loved it to smooches! I can't recall why I stopped using it.

Netflix has many plans that cater to all types of styles and the monthly plan fees are extremely competitive. Running to the brick & mortar video store can become a hassle and time consuming. The movies from Netflix come in your mailbox. There are no late fees, you can keep a movie as long as you like (within reason, of course) and never any postage to send the movies back.

How 'bout we try Netflix together? Click on the above link to get started...It'll be fun!

3's About Me

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 15:48:00 +0000

I received this meme from a relative of mine. It's short and sweet, thought you might enjoy doing it. I'm tagging a couple of my friends, Petula and Renee.

Three jobs I've had in my life: account manager, fast food worker, enforcement specialist

Three places I have lived: Maryland, Florida, South Carolina

Three shows that I watch: Bones, House, Sex and the City
Three places I have been: Canada, Georgia, Florida
Three places I have been this week: work, Easton, Annapolis
Three people who e-mail me regularly: my sisters, zita, shanta
Three of my favorite foods: chicken, flounder, baked potatoe with the works
Three places I'd rather be right now: tropical island, in bed with no distrations, traveling

Three things I am looking forward to this year: a vacation, making more money, lose some weight

Now, here's what you're supposed to do...(and please do not spoil the fun). The theory is that you will learn a lot of little known facts about the person. HAVE FUN!

Moving Right Along

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 03:45:00 +0000

Here's Kyle coming home from work tonight. I'm sure he's hating me right now and to know I've posted it here. I just wanted to report that things are going well for Kyle at his "new job". He's been there for nearly three weeks and seems to be enjoying it.

When he got his first paycheck, we both knew right away what he was going to do with it---open his very own bank account. He got his first check last Thursday and I took him to the PNC Bank the next day. Since he's now 18 he doesn't need me to be on the account with him. It's time that he takes care of business himself, however, I will be there when he needs me. It was a joyous occasion to see my baby open his own checking account. 'Checking account' you say? Yes, but without the checks. He wanted to be able to utilize the debit card feature and this can only be done with a checking account.

Kyle was happier than a pig in slop (how you like the analogy). He did it all by himself and within days received his Visa debit card. I have "schooled" him along the entire process on how to handle his newfound wealth to thwart off identity theft or just plain out THEFT. He is a good student when it comes to matters of money and credit. I wish him all the luck in the world, now that he's a part of the "working class".

Please enjoy this song about money from the O'Jays. Just a bit of ol' skool that I like!

Miss Sassy Pants

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 23:10:00 +0000

I know I'm not delusional but The Princess has really been sassy lately. Since she started "Big School" (pre-k), her mouth seems to run a mile a minute. She was always a talker but the content of the conversations are just a bit more advanced. When I was growing up my mother would say I was "showing-off" or "being smart".

For instance, today, we were taking Kyle to work and on the way back we stopped to the grocery story to pick up a few items. We get back in the car and before I move the vehicle I tell the Princess to make sure she's buckled in her booster seat. Well, this evening she let me know that 'I know what I'm doing, mother, don't I know what I'm doing daddy'. Hubby and I just looked at each other. He, of course, thought it was funny. I did too but I didn't let her know it.

There have been many other instances where the Princess has absolutely caught us off guard. She learned what I call "playground lingo"--those words or phrases that elementary school children use with each other. However, there's nothing bad or harmful about them. I do make sure I understand what she has said. If I don't agree with it, I will let her know and ask that she not say it again.

I talked to my sister today and told her how the Princess had changed since going to "big school". Her words of encouragement were.....

BETTER YOU THAN ME

Please share your child's growing vocabulary or use of words/phrases they picked up at school.

Missing Link

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:51:00 +0000

For those of you who had not read last week's posts (here, here and here), we lost a member of our family on September 6 in a tragic accident. As a family, our faith is strong and we will get through this horrible tragedy. I titled this post "Missing Link" because I feel a link is missing from the family chain. We are a close and tight family and when one grieves, we all grieve.

My sister has lost her only son; my mother has lost her first grandchild. Please continue to keep my family in your thoughts.

My Family

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:35:00 +0000

I was checking out my friend Petula's blog today, as usual, and found a cute characterization of her family. I had seen this before but never tried it. It's really fun! Click on the link under my picture and it will send you to the site to make your own. I would love to see how you create your family--please share when you're finished.

Create your own family sticker graphic at pYzam.com

In Remembrance

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 20:02:00 +0000

Today I received a comment from another new blogging friend Soulsearcher (sorry, don't know the real name) expressing condolences for my family's loss. I just wanted to say thank you!

Anytime I receive a comment from a "friend" I hadn't heard of before, I tend to click on their link to visit their blog or website. In doing so, I reached one of three blogs that "Soulsearcher" created. The first one I clicked on brought me to today's post about remembering those that died or were injured on September 11, 2001. This made me stop and think how significant this day is for everyone--this day will never be forgotten.

Although this is a day of remembrance for those lost on 9/11, it's also a day of remembrance for my family. I've included a video of the towers prior to 9/11.

Poem "A Friend"

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 19:40:00 +0000

I haven't mentioned in my previous posts that I have 3 sisters--Jeannie, Carolyn & Arlene. I mention this to give you an idea who I'm referring when I just mention their names. I don't want you to be confused as to who they are.

Ten years plus when my father passed away, Arlene expressed herself through a poem, "A Friend", she wrote in his honor. Because this poem means a lot to her, she legally owns the copyright to the poem. Arlene has decided to pull out the poem, after 10 plus years, and dedicated it to Carolyn and her daughter Charlese to be read at Vaughn's funeral. I have obtained Arlene's permission to share her poem here for your reading pleasure.

To my sister "Annie"

I sat down today
With heavy thoughts on my mind
I couldn't seem to focus
But had to make the time

Sometimes we must play
That dreadful had we are dealt
I knew that if I told Him
He would know just how I felt

A friend can sometimes see
Just what you have to bare
He can even solve the problem
Without being there

So when that cloud arises
And you think there's no way out
Just call the one who knows all
And He will help you...without a doubt

With much love to you and Charlese,

Your sister Arlene

Many Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 19:22:00 +0000

I would like to take the opportunity to say many, many thanks to my new blogging friends for your comments: Petula, Renee, Ann, Heather and Tisha (sorry, I didn't add links to your names, in a bit of a hurry ;D). I'm sure I will be adding more friends in the coming months. And thanks for expressing your condolences.

Also, I wanted to say thanks to my family & friends that have visited this blog and expressed their thoughts and memories of Vaughn. I felt using my blog as a wonderful avenue to reach out during our time of grief. For the rest of the week, I will be posting thoughts, memories and just general stuff about Vaughn. Keep the comments coming, I love reading them and pass the link to my blog along to others.

Kick Ass Blogger Award

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 23:56:00 +0000

I'm pleased to announce that I have received the "Kick Ass Blogger" award from my friend Petula. I have to admit that I'm ecstatic because it's my first award. This couldn't have come at a better time.

Here are the rules for the Kiss Ass Blogger award:
* Choose 5 bloggers that you feel are "Kick Ass Bloggers"
* Let them know in your post, email or blog comments that they've received an award.
* Share the love and link back to both the person who awarded you and back to Mammadawg.
* Hop on back to the Kick Ass Blogger Club HQ to sign Mr. Linky then pass it on!

I am passing these on to...
1. Petula
2. Renee
3. Ann
4. Heather
5. Tisha

Dedication

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 11:14:00 +0000

I dedicate this post to my nephew, Vaughn Harris. My family found out late last night that Vaughn was killed in an auto accident. Right now, I'm not totally clear on exactly what happened. Vaughn was the 29 year-old son of my sister Carolyn. He was married only six months ago to Jennifer Hobbs. Vaughn leaves behind not only his wife but two children, Jordan age 9, Jasmine age 8 months and three step-children, Brittany, Zachary and Anthony.

Here are the details of how events transpired...

Kyle entered my room around 1:45 AM today and woke me because my oldest sister Jeannie was on the phone. Here's how our conversation went...

Jeannie: "Vaughn is dead". (she didn't say hello, how are you, nothing)
Me: "Vaughn who"
Jeannie: "What Vaughn do you think?"
Me: "What happened"
Jeannie: "We don't know all the details but I think you need to be here".
Me: "I'll be there as soon as I can. I'll meet you at Carolyn's house".

My understanding is that by the time Jeannie was able to get a hold of me, Vaughn's body had been removed from the vehicle and taken to the medical examiners office. During my conversation with her, my husband had awoke and Kyle was still standing by my bed. Kyle knew something had to be wrong because of the time of the call and the fact that Jeannie wouldn't tell him anything until she talked to me.

Apparently, my mother and sisters had been trying to call me for nearly 3 hours. When I checked the caller ID's on the home & cell phones, I could have kicked myself that I had missed a total of about 18 calls. After I hung up the phone I told Pete and Kyle and that we all needed to get dressed. We didn't go to the accident site--we just made a beeline to Carolyn's house. This will be a tough week for all of us. Please keep my family in your thoughts and prayers.

Being Green

noreply@blogger.com (Tina F) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 18:21:00 +0000

I don't know about you but for quite sometime there has been much buzz, and still is, about "going green". What I mean by this is finding ways to be more eco-friendly, saving the environment, saving energy---you catch my drift?

For a number of months I have been making a good faith effort to join the cause. I have had conversations with my family to get them involved as well. First, I did some 'net research on the various wattages on the florescent light bulbs then I started my search to find the ones that would work best for my home. I was able to purchase about 12-15 bulbs for one price. WHAT A DEAL, considering these bulbs are a bit pricey. Rather than immediately change all of my light bulbs, I waited until my regular bulbs blew out then replaced them with the florescent ones.

The county where I live is a part of the Midshore Regional Recycling Program in MD. I went to my local Public Works office and scooped up a couple of recycling bins. The county picks up your recycling at your curb FREE OF CHARGE. The service will pick up anything that's recyclable. Since we have been doing this for a few months, it has become a way of life. I've even gotten The Princess involved!

You know...we have never been a society to whole heartedly concentrate on saving energy or our environment. But times have changed and we all must start changing the way we do things. I know it will take my family a long time before we can say 100% that we are an eco-friendly family.

Please share your stories of being eco-friendly or how you are trying to save energy or the environment.