A Big Sisterlocks Surprise!

Our next Sisterlocks gather is only a week away. I'm so anxious to see my fellow Sisterlockers and meet some new friends. Someone brings a friend or invites a friend and each gathering has grown larger and larger.

Once you're in the presence of these vibrant, intelligent, optimistic and talented women - feel their positive energy and spirit you know you've come home. You begin anticipating the next opportunity to be in such a positive environment. Come once and you're hooked.

In honor of Black History Month Karen has requested everyone bring a Soul Food dish. I'm bringing collard greens and cornbread and A BIG SISTERLOCKS SURPRISE! And I mean, big! You won't want to miss this gathering.

I have already received emails from my fellow Sisterlockers after yesterday's posting. I can't tell you how good it has made me feel and how my spirit has been lifted. Thank you all for being such beautiful and supportive friends. There is something special about the spirit of a locked sistuh. We share a common bond and it shines through every time.

Maya said it this way...

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
and the palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me...

From Maya Angelou's Phenomenal Woman

Why Hasn't Blaq Posted - True or False

Why hasn't Blaq posted? I know y'all been thinking that. Take this true or false test for the answer(s)...

T or F - She's been so busy with her demanding job and anal boss

T or F - Her hair hasn't changed much other than length, so no need to post

T or F - Her digital camera had to be sent away for repair and she just got it back

T or F- She started to go through menopause and life turned crazy and unfamiliar and scary

T or F - She's been developing and implementing a plan to escape corporate America

T or F - She was in one of those moods, and just didn't feel like writing

T or F - All of the above

If you answered "All of the above," give yourself a prize!!!!!!!!!

Life has thrown me a curve ball that I didn't expect - menopause - and suddenly I'm blatantly aware of my age. I won't bore you with the details, but anyone wishing to discuss the issue, or can offer counsel, please feel free to write me.

I called a month ago for a doctor's appointment and I'm just getting in to see her on February 15. The wait has been driving me crazy!!!! Menopause is not a subject openly discussed. It's almost taboo. I know some of yall are reading this thinking, "why the hell is she writing about this on her site.?" Call it cathartic writing. If I put it out there, then it is reality and I have to deal with it and perhaps even gain some much needed support and strength from those who may be familiar with it.

Yesterday I went to good ole Barnes & Noble and purchased a book on menopause. Whew! I'm not going crazy and my body isn't falling apart. It's just changing - thus the old phrase "going through the change." But the experience is changing my entire outlook on life.

Meanwhile...back in Sisterlocksville..

I know something that will make me feel much better and that is being with my fellow DFW Sisterlockers. Yep it's that time again, the DFW Sisterlocks Gathering III, February 19! Karen is hosting the group in Allen, Texas which is about an hour drive from me. In celebration of Black History Month, we're having a soulfood menu. Our group continues to grow and I can't wait to see all of my friends and make new ones.

So look for lots of great pics and anecdotes coming soon! Blaq is back!!!!

P.S. Wouldn't you know it! The first time I've felt like writing in months and the Blog site all of a sudden shut down for maintenance last night right in the middle of this post! All I could do was laugh out loud :-)

Here's what Mayo Angelou says, "On Aging"

When you see me sitting quietly,
Like a sack left on the shelf,
Don't think I need your chattering.
I'm listening to myself.
Hold! Stop! Dont' pity me!
Hold! Stop your sympathy!
Understanding if you got it,
Otherwise I'll do without it!

When my bones are stiff and aching
And my feet won't climb the stair,
I will only ask one favor:
Don't bring me no rocking chair.

When you see me walking, stumbling,
Don't study and get it wrong.
'Cause tired don't mean lazy
And every goodbye ain't gone.
I'm the same person I was back then,
A little less hair, a litt less chin,
A lot less lungs and much less wind.
But ain't I lucky I can still breathe in.

My Son Turns 30!

I've shared pics of my youngest son, Kory. But check out his big brother, Donnell who turned 30 years old today. Yes, I have a 30 year old!

I asked him, all the time knowing the answer, "Donnie, are you sure you're not 27 or 28 or 29...he said, "no, mom I'm 30."
Isn't he beautiful, all 6 ft 4 of him! He's always been tall and me being a petite, 5"2, we've become accustomed over the years to people asking us questions, (i.e. is he your natural son? how long have you guys beeen dating? etc.)...it just makes us laugh.

I'm a proud mom. I've raised two sons alone and they're both wonderful, strong and productive Black men. I can't ask for anymore than that.

Happy Birthday Donnie!!!!