2,268 Sundays To Go

My Truth

I'm sitting back in a corner, trying not to be seen. To be seen would mean having to be who I came here to be. It would mean facing the world. Facing parts of the world that aren't as kind, open, and understanding as I'd like them to be--I'm trying not to be seen out of fear. There are times when I come out of the corner, toss fear to the side, and live up to my potential. Then there are times, like now, when I contemplate moving into this corner for good. Setting up shop, decorating, and never leaving. Whatever I decide, things keep moving. And even in my quiet corner, change takes place--even if I try not to notice. While I still have breath, there is only one option: To Live. Whether it be in a corner or in my truth, there is only one option. To Live.

Miss Nikki Ann

In The News: Be Afraid: Powder-Sized RFID Chips : Tom Samiljan : Yahoo! Tech:

"Everyone's so paranoid about the RFID chips that are already in place in so many parts of our lives, so here's an item (via Engadget and Pink Tentacle) about Hitachi's new powder-sized RFID chips to make us even more scared of Big Brother (or little-Brother-ID thief). RFID chips are tiny microchips that use radio waves to do everything from conduct credit card transactions (as on those little key-fob-Paypass MasterCard thingies) and pay for tolls (EZ Pass and its ilk) to keeping track of your devices and travel (U.S. passports).

Hitachi plans to start marketing these new chips—seriously no bigger than a speck of dust at 0.05 x 0.05 mm—in two to three years. The company says this super-tiny chip can be used in paper, currency, gift certificates, and the like, but as some sites have pointed out, today's chips are already small enough for those uses. So, as Engadget cracked, does this mean we should be watching what we eat in case of some James-Bond-style pepper-shaker swap?

Maybe, but is the terror around RFID over-hyped? According to most proponents of the technology, and my own experiences paying with PayPass at my local drug store, you really need to physically tap the RFID chip to something for the transaction to go through. And yet, when I go through a toll booth, my RFID-enabled EZ Pass box is only about ten feet away from the sensor. So maybe it is time to watch what you eat, lest Big Brother starts to track you wirelessly (or you spill some RFID powder from which evil ID thieves can extract your vital stats!)"

By: Be Afraid: Powder-Sized RFID Chips : Tom Samiljan : Yahoo! Tech

A Healthful Reminder

Refusing to forgive is just as bad as eating one too many pieces of cake. Forgiveness is apart of a healthy lifestyle. Got Forgiveness?

My Truth

It's easier to be mad and pissed at other folks than to stay centered--taking stock of your contribution to the situation--and move forward without uttering a nasty word or harboring a negative thought.

Difficult to accomplish.

But...

Possible.

Just Chatting...

It'd be wise of me to keep a closer eye on Isom as he's destroying all of my hard work--I'm getting rid of old clothes so that new ones can come in. What was once organized has now found itself on the floor--or on his head or foot. And he's chewing on something. The problem? I haven't given him anything to eat. I should check on him...

Y'all have a good one!

Miss Nikki Ann

The Fireman

In The News: Lead-laden lunchboxes OK'd by government - CNN.com

Lead-laden lunchboxes OK'd by government - CNN.com:

Story Highlights

"• Study found one in five vinyl lunchboxes tested contained unsafe amounts of lead
• CPSC statement indicated 'no instances of hazardous levels'
• FDA sent a letter to manufacturers warning of possibly dangerous lead levels
• Experts say elevated levels of lead in blood a significant health hazard for children

(AP) -- In 2005, when government scientists tested 60 soft, vinyl lunchboxes, they found that one in five contained amounts of lead that medical experts consider unsafe -- and several had more than 10 times hazardous levels.

But that's not what they told the public."

Read the entire article...

In The News: Man wins $25,000 lottery two days in row - Yahoo! News

Man wins $25,000 lottery two days in row - Yahoo! News:

"MAPLEWOOD, Minn. - An airline pilot from Maplewood won a $25,000 lottery jackpot — two days in a row. Raymond Snouffer Jr. matched the winning numbers 11-14-23-26-31 to win Saturday's Northstar Cash drawing with odds of about 170,000 to 1, Minnesota Lottery officials said.
ADVERTISEMENT

On Sunday, Snouffer stuck with 11 and switched to 3-7-19-28 — and won again.
Lottery officials said such a sequence was so farfetched that the odds against it were 'virtually incalculable.'"

2,269 Sundays To Go

Up For Grabs: Bald Britney gets new tattoo in L.A. - Yahoo! News

Personally, I think the bald head looks really cute on Britney (being bald headed myself and all). What I thought was rude was an interviewee's comment: "It looks terrible."

It's funny to me how easy it is to spend time bringing other folks down; folks whom you don't know and have never met. And these types of folks can give you a complex, make you second-guess yourself. And what you may fail to realize is that these are the same folks who sit at home berating themselves or their family members because they don't feel good enough.

Often I get the comment: "That short hairdo fits your face, but not everyone can wear it."

Who in the hell says so?

And I always reply: "That's not true."

One woman even had the audacity to tell me that she knew a woman who looked really ugly in her short hairdo.

Years ago, a friend of mine cut off her long dreadlocks after hearing one too many negative comments. Years later she went with her instincts, set aside her doubts and fears, and grew them back. That time she got lots of positive comments. Goes to show you that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And I bet she wished she hadn't cut them the first time around--I bet she even dreamt of how long they would have been if she hadn't cut them the first time.

So, who knows what in the hell folks think about us. What's important to remember is that you are your own "beholder" every second of your life. Be sure that the image that is reflected back in the mirror is one that you like and not what someone else thinks you should look like.

Here's to women who are brave enough to go bald headed, whether it be for health reasons (hair falling out from chemotherapy) or because they fucking felt like it.

My Truth

When I check the stats on my blog, I am overwhelmed by how many of you come to this page to see how my life is going--even more faithful visitors come during times when I haven't blogged in weeks.

I no longer seek to be great or special. My desire is that I be and do what I came here to be and do. It is all of you who keep me going. Without your attention I would be different. You are my mirrors. You give me a good look at and into my SELF. Without your reflection it would be difficult to gauge my growth. All of you are in my life for a reason. There is no coincidence. And some of the things I have to learn from you aren't easy on me, but they make me wiser and more grounded in GOD, FAITH, Love, and patience.

Thank you for visiting. Thank you for helping me to see myself. It's priceless.

Miss Nikki Ann

Housecleaning

My friend Ang sent me this email (Thanks Ang!). Many of you have probably received this one too. Enjoy!

Housecleaning

Last Week I threw out Worrying. It was getting old and in the way.
It kept me from being me; I couldn't do things God's way.

I threw out a book on MY PAST (didn't have time to read it anyway).
Replaced it with NEW GOALS, started reading it today.

I threw out hate and bad memories. (Remember how I treasured them so?)
Got me a NEW PHILOSOPHY too; threw out the old one from long ago.

Brought in some new books too, called I CAN, I WILL, AND I MUST.
Threw out I MIGHT, I THINK and I OUGHT. WOW, you should've seen the
dust.

I ran across an OLD FRIEND. Haven't seen him in a while.
I believe his name is GOD. Yes I really like His style.

He helped me to do some cleaning and added some things Himself.
Like PRAYER, HOPE AND FAITH.... Yes, I placed them right on the shelf.

I picked up this special thing and placed it at the front door.
I FOUND IT- its called PEACE. Nothing gets me down anymore.

Yes, I've got my house looking nice. Looks good around the place.
For things like Worry and Trouble there just isn't any space.

Its good to do a little house cleaning, get rid of the things on the
shelf.

It sure makes things brighter; maybe you should TRY IT YOURSELF.

In The News: Peter Pan/Great Value Peanut Butter Alert

Officials search for salmonella source - CNN.com:

"Story Highlights

• Outbreak has slowly grown to nearly 300 cases in 39 states since August
• CDC: Outbreak thought to be first in U.S. history linked to peanut butter
• About 20 percent of the 288 infected people have been hospitalized
• FDA: Don't eat Peter Pan or Great Value with product code starting '2111'


ATLANTA, Georgia (AP) -- Government scientists struggled Thursday to pinpoint the source of the first U.S. salmonella outbreak linked to peanut butter, the kid favorite packed into millions of lunchboxes every day.

Nearly 300 people in 39 states have fallen ill since August, and federal health investigators said they strongly suspect Peter Pan peanut butter and certain batches of Wal-Mart's Great Value house brand -- both manufactured by ConAgra Foods Inc.

Shoppers across the country were warned to throw out jars with a product code on the lid beginning with '2111,' which denotes the plant where it was made.

How the dangerous germ got into the peanut butter was a mystery. But because peanuts are usually heated to high, germ-killing temperatures during the manufacturing process, government and industry officials said the contamination may have been caused by dirty jars or equipment."

Read entire story

Sir's Valentine's Day Delivery

Sir made a beautiful Valentine's Day card for Aunt Theldra. We traveled all the way around the block to give it to her. The snowfall couldn't stop us and Sir was thrilled about wearing his boots and snowsuit. I told Sir to holdup the card so that I could take a picture of it. Poor fella thought I meant for him to hold it up to his face! Anywho, he's wearing the Valentine's Day outfit that Aunt Theldra (or Mother Superior, as he calls her) gave him.



Leaving the house...

Knocking on Aunt Theldra's door...

The delivery's a success!

Happy Valentine's Day

There's a wintry mix outside, which makes for great cuddling weather. For those who reside Up North and can't make it out to dinner due to the weather, find someone special to spoon with. For those living in warmer climates, enjoy a nice dinner out with your special someone.

As for me, I'll have to snuggle with Sir. We have plans on baking a German Chocolate Cake and visiting his Valentine--Aunt Theldra. She bought him an adorable Valentine's Day outfit; I plan on dressing him in it and walking him around the corner in this icy weather so that he can hand deliver it to her.

Hugs and kisses to you all.

Miss Nikki Ann

Come To Find Out...

Man: "So, why do you want to work at this hotel?"

Nikki Ann starred blankly in amazement. Again she surveyed the low rate of pay and made no comment.

Man: "So, why do you want to work at the front desk?"

Nikki Ann blinked her eyes in amazement. Her mouth wide-open.

The man shut up and thought to himself for a minute, obviously surveying Nikki Ann's extensive resume and credentials.

Man: "You just need money, don't you?"

Nikki Ann: "What in the hell do you think?"

**Actually, Nikki Ann only shouted that to herself, but it would have been a great comeback.**

Here's what really happened:

Nikki Ann and the man looked at each other, both had a hearty laugh.

And she hasn't heard from him yet.

To be continued...

Housekeeping

I made a few changes...

In The News: Yahoo! Health News: Male sweat can boost arousal in women

"Male sweat can boost arousal in women

February 13, 2007 04:55:11 PM PST

A chemical in male sweat can boost mood, brain activity and sexual arousal in heterosexual women, according to a new study released just in time for Valentine's Day.
The study offers the first direct evidence that humans secrete a scent that can affect the physiology of the opposite sex, said researchers at the University of California, Berkeley. Their findings were published this week in The Journal of Neuroscience.

'This is the first time anyone has demonstrated that a change in women's hormonal levels is induced by sniffing an identified compound of male sweat,' said study leader Claire Wyart, a postdoctoral fellow at UC Berkeley. 'There is much more going on than we think when we are smelling body odor.'

The study conducted last year involved 48 undergraduate women who took 20 sniffs from a bottle containing androstadienone, a compound found in male perspiration and other bodily secretions.

The researchers measured the women's levels of the stress hormone cortisol and compared them to the women's responses to a control odor. Cortisol levels in the women rose within about 15 minutes of inhaling the androstadienone scent and remained elevated for more than an hour, UC Berkeley researchers found.

They also discovered that blood pressure, heart rate and breathing increased, mood improved and sexual arousal was boosted.

While the compound can make women feel more positive and sexually aroused, it's still unclear how it affects their behavior, Wyart said.

'Humans are more complex,' she said. 'You cannot expect them to have stereotypical responses like rodents.'"

In The News: Valentine roses hit with toxic chemicals - Yahoo! News

Valentine roses hit with toxic chemicals - Yahoo! News:

"BOGOTA, Colombia - It's probably the last thing most people think about when buying roses — by the time the bright, velvety flowers reach your Valentine, they will have been sprayed, rinsed and dipped in a battery of potentially lethal chemicals.

Most of the toxic assault takes place in the waterlogged savannah surrounding the capital of Colombia, the world's second-largest cut-flower producer after the Netherlands. It produces 62 percent of all flowers sold in the United States."

Up For Grabs: List of Grammy Award winners - Yahoo! News

List of Grammy Award winners - Yahoo! News

Come To Find Out...

That newspaper is still on top of Neighbor's house.

2,270 Sundays To Go

And after find 3 new grey hairs, I am cherishing every day of my early thirties.

Dang!

Forty, here I come...

The Cries And The Screams

Isom and I are on our way on a field trip with his playgroup to Chuck E. Cheese. I haven't been since I was a child, and right now I am having chilling memories of lots of screaming children, which will be a perfect fit for Mr. Bizzy Bee who couldn't contain himself, rubbing the top of some bald headed man at church last night. Speaking of church, the preacher spoke about Loving You Neighbor As You Love Yourself... It's something I know and am trying to implement in ways that I haven't before. I'd love to chat more about it, but a room-full of screaming lads seem to be awaiting me.

Latas...

Miss Nikki Ann

Up For Grabs: Anna Nicole Smith lived in glare of tabloids - Yahoo! News

For those who don't know, I am a big Anna Nicole fan. I always thought she was a sweet and unique soul. Yes, she was weird...and strange...and far from normal... But aren't most folks? Aunt Theldra and I both agree that Howard K. Stern (her lawyer and new husband) has something to do with Anna and her son's untimely death. Then again, Aunt Theldra and I watch way too many soap operas and listen to gossip-diva Wendy Williams. We probably need to find better interests! I hope that it wasn't Howard. And with that paternity issue and Anna not being in a good relationship with her mom, who knows what will happen with her baby. Anywho, here's a piece of the story for those who aren't in-the-know.

Anna Nicole Smith lived in glare of tabloids - Yahoo! News: "LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - From her first Playboy centerfold and marriage to an 89-year-old oil tycoon to the mysterious death of her adult son, Anna Nicole Smith lived her life in a special corner of America -- the often garish world of supermarket tabloids.

Few figures in modern pop culture have garnered as much publicity as the buxom, blond Texas native, whom the media alternately painted as a bubble-headed naif and a cynical gold-digger with the soul of an adding machine.

Smith, 39, still enmeshed in disputes over the paternity of her 5-month-old daughter and the circumstances of her son's death in the Bahamian hospital where she had just given birth in September, died on Thursday in Florida.

Her sudden death bore an eerie parallel to the demise of Smith's personal idol, screen legend Marilyn Monroe, who died in 1962 at age 36. Like Monroe, Smith rose from a troubled background to gain worldwide fame as a sex symbol."

Just Chatting...

It's after midnight and I should be sleeping. Sleeping... I like to sleep with my fan on. Yes, 365 days a year, below zero weather. It's blowing in my face now. The sound of it lulls me to sleep. When I go "fanless" it just isn't any fun. I'm a beachgoer, and the fan's white noise transports me back to the Caribbean. Boy, I need a vacation.

So, Sir and I have been babysitting once a week. I spend that time telling Sir to stop hitting Aaron and telling Aaron that it's okay to share. It takes Sir a good 2 hours to warm up to Hudson the dog, but after that, I catch him trying to yank off the poor doggie's tail. But it keeps me busy and Sir is excited every time we pull into Aaron's driveway. The other day Anna (Aaron's mom) called and thanked me for the great job I did on cleaning the microwave. No, it's not in the job description, but Sir and Aaron are so busy playing together that I actually have time to do stuff (that never happens when Sir and I are home alone; I become his entertainment.). I've found that having two kids is better than one... As long as I can send the other back to his mom!

That's it for now...

~Miss Nikki Ann

2,271 Sundays To Go

2,272

Hmmm...

I wouldn't even know what to say...

Quotable

Over the years, the more material and physical possessions I lose, the more I experience this truth:

"You have imagined that there is so much you need in order to be happy, and even to survive. You have made this all up."

~Home With God by Neale Donald Walsch

Come To Find Out...

So...in August 2006 the newspaper carrier threw the morning paper on top of Neighbor's house.

Today's Date?

January 25, 2007.

That newspaper is still on top of Neighbor's house.

The end.

Man Up The Street Update

As we know, Man Up The Street was on People's Court with his ex-girlfriend. She'd kicked him out of the house and had vowed to never take him back again. **Nikki clears her throat** It has been reported (Neighbor told my mom) that Man Up The Street was spotted at his mother's house with ex-girlfriend. It just goes to show you that old habits are hard to break and that both of them are full of it! Full of what? Maybe lust, love, stupidity, foolishness... Whatever it is, if I ever hear of them having another court date, I will be there to enter my verdict: GUILTY (both parties).

Monday, January 22, 2007

My computer crashed in October 2006--everything was wiped out but a few important files, thank God. It took me awhile to get the thing out (December 2006). And after much deliberation and uneasiness, I've finally started the long and tedious task of reinstalling SOME of my programs--looking back, half of that stuff I didn't need. Things seem to be running smoothly. But let's face it, I got this thing in 1998 and it's still running on Windows 98. The techs at the computer place are amazed at this machine, it keeps going and going. It runs really fast and smooth, and up until October 2006 it hadn't given me any real trouble. But we'll see how it goes. My main problem is that I can't play any of the newer games on this thing (most programs require Windows 2000 or higher). But I so want to play the Sims 2 game I begged my mother to buy me, knowing damn well my computer couldn't run it. Man, I'm a piece of work!

Shout outs:

Ang, I'm proud of you!

Tunisia, Happy Birthday!

Paul, how you get a job first?

Crystal, I owe you big time for making fun of me.

LuCiana, girl, if you leave me one more message! (LOL, just kidding. I appreciate the love).

I gotta go...

~Miss Nikki Ann

It's Me!

Thanks to everyone who keeps dropping in even though I haven't been posting. Your support means a lot. I'll chat with you all soon...

2,273 Sundays To Go

2,274

Quotable

To imagine that you will do everything in a different way is to assure escalating personal and social chaos. To imagine that you will do many things the same way, but with greater understanding and integrity, is to produce a stable ground for transformation.

~From Letter To Earth

2,275 Sundays To Go

2,276
2,277

Isom...

Thanks for an amazing 20 months! I look forward to many more.

Love,

Mom

A Healthful Reminder

It only takes five minutes out of your day to schedule a doctor appointment.

FIVE.

You probably spend more than that gossiping with coworkers.

Please take care of yourselves.

Don't put it off another day...

And put that extra Christmas cookie down! After January 1st, you'll be glad you did!

Quotable

Nikki laid back with her legs up in the stirrups, informing her doctor that she is neither sexually active or in a relationship.

Doc said (with much seriousness and sincerity):

"Oh no! You have to do something about that."

Nikki laughed--and then had the audacity to reply (with much seriousness and sincerity, like she'd just had an awakening):

"I know!"

Doc then informed his patient:

"Well...if your situation changes, give the office a call..."

Nikki drifted into her thoughts and wondered if it would ever change...

LOL!

Matter of fact--hours later--she's still wondering!

BESOS!

Come To Find Out...

I had a gynecological appointment today. It was very refreshing--I love my doctor--and it was good to know that I'm in great shape. But... I watched as my poor doctor--a really young and handsome dude, my God!--struggled with the new computer technology that's inside the examination room. He's a very thorough doctor who asks many questions, so he spent tons of time trying to transcribe every single detail into his computer. For those who don't know, I love keeping up with my health, so I see doctors very frequently. I've probably had 20 doctor visits this year, and this was the first time I saw this type of technology inside the examination room. Come to find out... Times are still changing... Hopefully this change will mean better preventive care.

~Miss Nikki Ann

2,278 Sundays To Go

My Truth

I'm trying to follow

Serendipity

and

Synchronicity.


Today those things led me to two individuals who, once I opened up, gave me exactly what I needed.

I must be willing to move the way each moment directs me to.

Spotlight: James Redfield

I've read a third book of his: The Secret of Shambhala. It only took me a few days and I could hardly put it down. I love his writing and his open ideas. His words echo through my mind as I try to stay conscious of my higher self and the higher self of those around me. Here's to the Dakini!

2,279 Sundays To Go

Just A Hello!

It's that time of year, again. And things around here are very busy and will be that way until after January 1st. I hope all is well with everyone. At this moment, I am doing some eBaying, trying to find a specific item for Sir. Wish me luck!

My Artist Space

I have received so many kind words and thoughts from you guys. I am humbled by your belief in me. Today I was rambling on and on to my mom about the next step in this "becoming a published novelist" process. It's something I've never done before, and I'm looking for as much support as I can get.

It's my feeling that the SECOND step in this process is to believe in myself. The FIRST step is to be willing to go forward with it. I believe that being willing is first, and most important, because there may be many days when I don't believe in myself. But on those days, I'll still be willing to go forward in order to see what the end will be.

As I wrote this novel, there were days I had little faith in my talents (something similiar to the "faith of a mustard seed") but I did have strength, and the will, to move forward.

Willingness first...

And then...

Belief in my talents.

Strange, but true for this situation.

Once again, I am grateful for your kind words.

Besos!

Miss Nikki Ann

Spotlight: Anika Noni Rose

Today I received many email about a person a attended high school with. This young lady is in the new Dreamgirls production. She is co-starring along with other female singers Beyonce and Idol winner, Jennifer Hudson. This woman is Anika Noni Rose (we knew her as Anika Rose). Here's a little anecdote...

There year was 1989. Me, my girl Maia (who's now in the Broadway production of The Color Purple) and some more of our friends had plans on performing an EnVogue song for our high school talent show. **Hey, LuCiana, were you supposed to perform with us?** We were freshman at the time and Miss Anika, who was a senior, had decided to do the same song. What we couldn't understand was why she'd want to perform this song solo when it was made for a group performance. In the end, her seniority won out. I can still remember how disgusted I was over it. And if I'm not mistaken, I think, in the end, she decided on doing some other song; but it was too late for us to switch back.

Hey...Miss Anika was always driven. I guess that's the reason why she is now a Tony Award winner from some Broadway play she was in. I can't hate on the woman for having drive, even if that drive caused her to run over me and my pals.

Miss Anika, my hat's off to you. Live your dream, girl. **Nikki Ann ponders a moment** Anika probably wouldn't know me if she passed me on the street. LOL! Goes to show you how silly old grudges can be. I mean, that stuff happened 17 years ago! LOL!

I'm out!

Miss Nikki Ann

My Artist Space

As of 7 a.m. this morning, I have officially finished editing my novel! Wooo! And I had to stop for a minute and savor the moment. This process has gone on for years and I didn't want to underappreciate it. When I first wrote this book, I was a childless woman. I didn't have a job and I spent an entire month just typing away, bitching about the life as a writer. Boy, if I only knew then what I know now. But life is much richer and fuller for me today. And because of everything that has transpired over the years, I believe the rewrite of my book is better than its original version, the book has grown as much as I have.

And so, right now, I pause..............Sir is upstairs running around, mom is yelling at him, Thembi's computer is humming, the heater is humming, a school bus is passing by outside...I'm in the moment. For in this moment, I realize all that my life has become and all that I still have to look forward to. And not just the things that we think are easy and good, I'm also looking forward to the more complicated and frustrated things about life.

But, for now, I have evolved into who and what I am in this moment. And right now, I am enough. And right now, I am proud of myself. A completed novel. Thank you God...

~Miss Nikki Ann

My Artist Space

Only 3 pages left to edit...

My Artist Space

Only 36 more pages to edit...

And then...

I start a new novel...

Or...

Finish one of the others I started long ago...

We'll see.

But still...

Only 36 more pages to edit.

2,280 Sundays To Go

A New Feature

I have added a link to the left of the page to Miss Nikki Ann's House: A Guide; it's a guide that gives brief descriptions on the various types of posts I do here. Nothing major or earth shattering, but, do run and tell the Pope, President and anyone else you know.

Up For Grabs

It has been confirmed that Actress Lindsay Lohan, 20, is attending Alcoholics Anonymous. I don't know if y'all know, or even care, she's been spotted getting her party on with panty-less new mother of two, Britney Spears.

Pamela Anderson and Kid Rock are divorced. Pam stated, "I'm very concerned with the press on mine and Bob's divorce. I know I have people who want to defend me or people who want to defend Bob, but my children can read -- and I'd like to resolve this amicably -- not fueling fires -- and with dignity." Um, Pammy Spammy, if you know your children can read, stop doing things that wind up in the press.

Eddie Murphy will be filming Beverly Hills Cop 4. Um, come on, Eddie! It's been reported that he did a fabulous job in Dreamgirls, why can't he leave it at that? While the first two "Beverly Hills Cop" films, released in 1984 and 1987, made more than $600 million worldwide, the third entry in 1994, made slightly more than $40 million domestically.

My Artist Space

Fifty-two more pages to edit. I can't believe I've made it this far. I've been editing my buttocks off, usually from 8 PM to about midnight. And then I wakeup and edit at 6 AM. And during the day, I spend time mentally editing (I've been working on this novel for so long that I practically know it by heart). Actually, as I'm typing this, I'm doing some mental editing, which I probably spend at least two hours doing each day. All of it together amounts to a good 7 hours a day of some form of editing. Right now, if I say the word editing one more time, I might hurt myself.

Welcome To December 2006...

Just a reminder, this is the first and last time, generally speaking, you will ever live through December 2006. Let's make this year's December memorable and enjoyable, regardless of what illusionary hardships we may be facing. Here's a great big, sickening HOORAY-HOORAH for...

DECEMBER 2006: The Best December Ever.

LOL!

Come To Find Out...

You should always go with your first instincts...

I attend block watch meetings and try to keep in contact with my local police department. I know officers by name and often stop and talk to them on the street. The other week I called my favorite officer about a suspicious looking car that was parked across the street; and he took down all the available information. Just the other day I was out front talking to Neighbor when my favorite officer pulled up. We chatted and I complimented him on the great job I saw them doing in town to stop drunk drivers and speeders over the Thanksgiving Holiday. He then informed me that they had arrested the guy I'd phoned in about the week prior--some woman phoned in that she'd spotted him smoking weed in the park and they were able to catch him in the act.

Fine.

When the officer left, Neighbor said, "I wouldn't let him know where I live." I said, "Well, I prefer he knows who I am, just in case I need some help."

Now...

Yesterday Sir and I were leaving his Godparent's house (which is around the corner). Thank God I'd driven because it was dark when we left. I looked out and saw the boys in blue searching through all the neighbor's backyards. Come to find out, someone had just robbed one of our neighbors and had tried to rob another (and these are neighbors we know).

My point? I don't sit and wait for shit to go wrong. I don't call the cops to rat folks out, I call the cops to keep my family and my neighbors safe. And as much as I love Neighbor, she is ignorant as to how important it is that the police know us and receive our help in protecting us. We live in this neighborhood and we know it best. We can be better protected by being able to supply these officers with what they need to catch criminals.

FYI: If you call the cops and make an anonymous call and they get to the so-called scene of the crime and don't see anything going down, they don't have a right to arrest anyone. You have to give your name. Withholding that information doesn't do anyone you care about any good.

Second FYI: The internet is packed with videos showing people how to pop locks--I just saw it on the news yesterday.

I'm not the baddest chick (I wanted to put the B word there), but I will not sit, afraid, in my home as some punks ruin a beautiful neighborhood. Yes, I am thankful for the work the Police Department does, but my neighborhood is as quiet, friendly and nice as it is because we work hard to keep it that way. It takes work. And sometimes you've got to put your fears aside to lookout for yourself and those you love.

Miss Nikki Ann

Dr. Oz Update

Another great show with the Doc. Again he spoke about how an optimal waistline measurement is 32.5 inches for women and 35 for men; or, you can determine your ideal waistline figure by dividing your height in half.

Example:

I'm 5 feet 5 inches

5 feet x 12 = 60 inches + 5 inches = 65 inches

65 / 2 = 32.5 inches optimal waistline measurement

Easy enough, right? I love how Dr. Oz makes information clear and easy to use. And I really love how he's not just into prescribing things, he wants what you put into your body, and how you treat it, to do the healing for you. Here's to Dr. Oz and finding out more and more about how our bodies function for us. Genius.

Man Up The Street Update

Yup, another Man Up The Street spotting, but with a twist. Yes, I have seen him on the streets, but this spotting was on TELEVISION--The People's Court, to be exact. He was on there with that girlfriend I told you all about. Actually, she's now his ex-girlfriend. And I learned way more about them than I needed to know (like how she's had a hysterectomy). Man Up The Street was claiming that when he did his last stint in prison, the ex-girlfriend was supposed to take care of his outside business. He receives disability and wanted her to pay his bills with that money. He claimed that she'd stolen over $2,000 of that money. She claimed that she did as she was told to do with it and had kept a written record of all transactions. She also claimed abuse by both the hands of Man Up The Street and his 16-year-old son (and she had police reports to prove it). He stated, "Your Honor, I didn't know we was having problem until now." Um, excuse me Man Up The Street, you've been abusing this woman and lazying around on her couch (as she called it); and you didn't think y'all were having problems. For real? Un-huh. Man Up The Street... **Nikki sighs** Okay, The People's Court is filmed in New York, so he went out of state to lose this case when he could have stayed home (away from TV Land) and lost with dignity. Now e'erybody knows his business. I knew he was on TV because Neighbor rang my phone and told me to turn the channel. I was so excited that I packed Sir up (hair uncombed and all) and went across the street to view it with them. Man Up The Street. Other information that the judge got from him was that he'd been arrested for DUI 8 times. The judge pondered as to why they kept letting him go from prison early. And after his last stint, he was released under the care of the ex-girlfriend. Now why would she let this dude come back to her place? Especially when she told the judge that after she'd had her hysterectomy, he'd threatened to kick her in her stomach. What? Maybe a month ago Man Up The Street and Sir had the kindest and most gentle moment when they'd spotted a rabbit in his mother's yard and he proceeded to show Sir its beauty. **Nikki Ann shakes her head** Anywho, Miss Nikki Ann must go. I've talked enough about Man Up The Street. Latas!

Quotable

“And if your friend does evil to you, say to him, 'I forgive you for what you did to me, but how can I forgive you for what you did to yourself?'”

-Friedrich Nietzsche

2,281 Sundays To Go

Dr. Oz...

Will be on Oprah today. He's the guy whom I got the information from about the body's four needs. I can't wait to hear what he's talking about today.

The book is coming along; it has now been edited down from 400 pages to 215 pages. And I am now editing page number 110 of 215. I'm almost there! At this point, it's about getting it done. Phew! Thanks to Kimani and Paul for keepin' it real with me; I focus on your words of wisdom as I near my deadline.

Thanksgiving was great. Shout out to my cousins, Wallace and Gia, for the invite. Sir had a great time--twice he was caught playing in the toilet.

Some funny stuff is happening to me. And I'd like to thank LuCiana and Crystal for laughing with me along the way! And, also, Paul for laughing at me.

Ang--I hope your computer issue is resolved.

Let's keep it moving y'all. Our dreams are in arms reach; we just gotta keep reaching!

Ciao!

Four Things The Body Needs...

Water

Food

Sex

Sleep


**Nikki Ann clears her throat. She's about to get personal.**

So I'm missing one of the things from that list.

Love Youz Guys!

Miss Nikki Ann

A Healthful Reminder

Fall is here and winter is coming. During the summer, it is easy to remember to drink water when your body is craving and needing it the most. But during these colder seasons, when we're not sweating as much, or, sometimes, not exerting as much energy, we have a tendency to forget to drink water. So please watch your water intake. You may not need to drink as much as you did in the summer months, but you still need a good amount to run on.

I love to drink my water hot, warm or at room temperature all year long. But winter is a great time to drink it that way, when it's so cold that drinking colder water can be a turn off.

And let's not forget our fresh, uncooked fruits and veggies, another thing that we tend to not consume lots of during colder months.

Here's to our health!

2,282 Sundays To Go

Forgot to post it!

Come To Find Out...

Sir's playgroup teacher is friends with an ex-therapist of the 22-year-old stabber. The therapist reported that the stabber is indeed mentally unstable. The therapist voiced that she knew that the stabber could be capable of harming someone. When the therapist spoke of the stabber, she to referred to her as a friend.

My point: Even those whom we judge as evil or crazy have, at one point in time, shown a side of themselves that would make someone call them a friend. The stabber is just a woman. A woman who obviously had a past that led her to her current situation and condition. Maybe she was raped or molested as a child, maybe abandoned. Maybe her parents were abusive. Whatever it was, at one point in time, this crazy woman was a whole and sane being.

My other point: If we could only help folks before situations go this far.

How to help? My belief is that we were all born with a purpose. Along with that purpose, we were given talents to help execute the tasks that we need to accomplish to fulfill our purpose. We all have a common, running theme to our reason for being here: Reconnecting to who we truly are. And we do that by using our talents to help others. By helping others, we remember who we are.

The stabber is a woman who is lost and can't find her way home. And how easy it is for any person to lose themselves--just think about your life path.

Miss Nikki Ann

What?

Okay, so, allegedly a 22-year-old woman stabbed her 3 children (2-year-old twins and a 7-month-old baby). The children are alive but remain in the hospital.

Here's my issue, her children's grandmother (the children's father's mother) stated: "They're saying that she's crazy. She's not crazy. She knows what she did and she called and told people what she did."

Um, pardon my silly insight here, but any humanbeing that can stab their children is what one might call, for lack of a more accurate word, crazy. And if she is crazy, why hadn't anyone sought her any help. Her public defender said that she has a history of mental health problems and has been a repeated victim of domestic violence. So it is clear that she has issues.

The grandmother stated: "My son never hit her, not even once. I raised him with good moral values and he would never do something like that. She is the abuser. She used to hit him and the children."

Okay, maybe she did beat on this man and their children. But, I don't know of one guy who'll sit around and just take a beating without dishing out a can of whoop-ass himself. I'm pretty sure he hit her as well. And if all these folks knew the kids were being physically abused, why hadn't they reported this ill woman? The courts and the police officers stated that they don't have any records of any abuse or calls for help to the couple's home in the past year. But there have been reports that postpartum depression may have been a factor in the alleged crime.

*Nikki sighs*

People, we have to take care of new moms. Being a new mother is a very fragile and delicate position--hormones are out of wack, can't get enough sleep, can't get enough support from a significant other...

Also, let's not assume that we know what's going on in somebody else's home (i.e. the grandmother's assumption that her son is a perfect angel).

Sometimes we're too angry to see the truth--anger/fear will never lead us there.

Let's not be so quick to judge. I often find myself understanding how people snap. All it takes is a moment to completely loose it and fall apart. I am never shocked by violence, just saddened by it. Saddened by the fact that we humans have a long path ahead of us. Sad that we're not evolving at a faster pace. Sad that women's issues (like postpartum) are still being treated as non-issues.

Try to lend a hand to a mother in need. I don't care if she's a married mom, teenage mom, single mom, mom of 3 kids... Help and understanding might have prevented this incident from happening.

Tid bit: The photos posted of this young mother are so heart wrenching. You can view the photos and more of her story at: WFSB.com. The story's title is: Mom Accused Of Stabbing Children Appears In Court.

I'm out!

Greatness

I am aware that I am great. I am aware that I am great because I was born.

Do you know how great you are?

Entertainment Update

Okay, the truth? I am looking forward to all of the news coverage of the TomKat wedding. I think Katie Holmes is a genuine sweetheart. And Tom Cruise... Ya' gotta love Tom--unless you're Brooke Shields.

If anyone finds any cool web pictures of the event, please do email them to me.

Hello!

I'm here and I haven't forgotten about you all. I do stop in, but then, the thoughts I want to write down are a little too long for the little amount of time I have to post. I'm spending each night editing my novel, and thanks to someone, I've had to set a stricter finish date; which means all my extra time is consumbed by writing. For those people I usually communicate with by phone, I'll chat with y'all when I'm done.

Anywho, lots of you have significant things happening in your lives. And I feel blessed that many of you find that I'm a great friend and confidant; hopefully it means I'm doing something right. I love hearing about your lives, and it helps to make me a more well-rounded and understanding person.

So....

Congrats to those who've had big accomplishments. And here is a burst of "GOD-GIVEN STRENGTH" for those who are struggling with some things. In the end, and after some time and hardwork, our struggles become our accomplishments.

I love y'all...and I pray that you still love me!

Miss Nikki Ann

2,283 Sundays To Go

Seventy-five, here I come!

Two Special Celebrations In One

Happy Birthday Gianetta!

AND

Happy First Anniversary to both you and Wallace!

Yesterday we ate Gia and Wallace's year-old wedding cake. Woo! It tasted just as fresh, moist and delicious as it did last year. And Sir thought it was good, too.

I wanted to post pictures, but I'm still not working from my computer.

Gerald Levert Dies at age 40

For those who are against swearing, please move on now. I am about to have a super "sista' gurl" moment...

Aw shit! Hell-to-the nawh, Gerald. Naw, Gerald...Naw!

I'm gonna miss that big, chocolate hunk of a man. I never thought he got enough recognition for his talents. Here was a man who's voice could melt like milk chocolate, but all these non-singers were at the top of the charts for making "cookie cutter" songs, with matching hooks.

Damn, Gerald!

Aunt Theldra says: Goodbye, Man!

Gerald, Gerald, Gerald.

This is as tough to handle as Marvin Gaye's death.

Woo!

My God!

"Baby I'm ready, to give you all of my love."

Sing it Gerald.

"Baby not just a little bit, I want to give you all of it."

What!

"All my kisses belong to you.....

Take my heart in your hand....

And do whatever you want to do with it baby...

My love, my love, my love, my love...

Goes deeper than the eyes can see.

I made mistakes before, but won't you please forgive me...

Baby I'm ready, to give you all of my love..."

R&B star Gerald Levert dies at 40

The singer, who was the son of O'Jays vocalist Eddie Levert, first found fame with the R&B trio LeVert, and scored a UK top 10 single with Casanova in 1987.

He also recorded as a solo artist, and worked with soul legends such as Anita Baker, Barry White and Patti LaBelle.

"Nobody was prepared for this," said LaBelle. "It's not for real to me that he is gone."
LaBelle, who said Levert was "like a son" to her, added that she hoped to perform at the singer's funeral.

Pop royalty

Levert was born in Philadelphia, and often accompanied his father on tour.

He set up his first band in 1986 with brother Sean and childhood friend Marc Gordon, naming it LeVert.

The trio were particularly successful in the US, scoring two gold albums in 1987 and 1988 before Levert left to pursue a solo career.

In 1992, he had an unexpected number one R&B hit, Baby Hold On To Me, with his father, which led to an entire album of duets, Father And Son, in 1995.

Levert also received a Grammy nomination for writing Barry White's comeback single, Practice What You Preach, in 1994.

"He was one of the greatest voices of our time, who sang with unmatched soulfulness and power," said record company Atlantic in a press statement.

"It's very sad," his friend and fellow R&B singer Will Downing told the Associated Press. "Gerald was a hard worker... He would touch the people, and that's really what it's all about."

Levert's family, including his four children, released a statement asking for privacy "at this very difficult time".

--BBC News

Sir Isom's A Big Boy Now

It's official! As of yesterday, November 10th, Sir is now One AND a Half Years Young!

There's only six more months until the big day.

Food?

Food.

Some of us (I'm one of 'em), not all, treat food as if it's gonna run out tomorrow.

Food.

So far, I've never gone hungry.

Food.

On days when I say, "There's nothing here to eat," there's usually a kitchen full of stuff.

Food.

Why do sweets have to be so delicious?

Food.

Why do restaurants serve such huge portions?

Food.

Why is fast food so addictive?

Food.

Why are these "dine-in" restaurants nothing but expensive fast food?

Food.

Why is it so hard to just skip the bread?

Food.

Why won't these restaurants pay the servers what they're worth so that folks won't have to tip?

Food.

McDonald's?

Food?

Burger King?

Food??

Wendy's?

Food???

That's not food!

Greasy diner food?

Food?

Okay, that's food!

Carrots, broccoli, avocado, eggplant, spaghetti squash, sauteed shrimp, flame broiled chicken.

Food.

Hot dog, hamburgers, greasy fries, extra mayonnaise...

Food?

Tonight I'm having fried fish, hush puppies and much more.

Whatever I'm eating, I try and eat it with a smile on my face.

Hooray for FOOD!

Buried In A Book...

My Book!

Trying to finish the editing process before I'm 75. Hey, I don't have but 2,284 Sundays to go!

So I spend my nights chopping, inserting, reading, reading and reading.

No phonecalls to friends at night.

No TV.

No late night snacking.

No kickin' it.

Just editing.

I promised I'd finish this, and dog's foot, I will.

That "dog's foot" was a "damnit", but then I changed it. Trying to tone potty-mouth down just a bit. Don't want to overdo it, though. A swear word here or there releases so much stress.