Sunday, November 29, 2015

Go anyway

I was exhausted.  I was fighting a cold. I didn't want to go.

But I did anyway.

Sometimes you really don't want to do something and everything is conspiring to keep you from doing it.

Such is what happened to me last night for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Xi Nu Omega chapter fundraiser.

I put in so many excuses.  But, in the end, I fought them and went.

It was cold. Driving was a tad frightening. And it was an adventure finding my parking spot.

But I went.

To see Gloria Winston's smile when I got to the table was worth the hassle.

Sometimes you've got to go anyway.

And, like I did -- you might have a good time.

Monday, November 16, 2015

Adventures…adventure..and leaving with a smile

Last night, I had another adventure:

I went to the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge on North Broadway.

It was the first time I'd been there.

It was fun!  They had an Open Mic where poets delivered their best renditions.  It was different.

What made it fun was the eclectic crowd:  Young, old, black, white, straight gay.

It took me awhile to find it but, once in, it was uplifting.

I left with a smile.

Sunday, November 15, 2015

Back to your roots

Last night, I attended my high school (Harlan) reunion -- my 50th.  I hadn't planned to go -- after all, I wasn't very popular in high school and didn't flower until college.

But then, someone bought me a ticket and I was committed.

Despite my reluctance, I had fun.  It was great to see fellow classmates who roamed the halls with me.  The popular ones are now weighed down by life but they attend these events to revisit the glory days..before..well.

The high school days represent a distant future…and I was in my total Geekdom there.  But, the years wash away that type of resentment and I greeted, hugged, laughed and had fun with my classmates.  We mourned those who didn't make it and there was an impressive sideshow that brought everyone to quiet.

In the end, I was happy I came.  Why? because at this event, I had returned to my roots -- and that is always uplifting!

Friday, November 6, 2015

Worth the trip

I love "different" types of movies but they often aren't shown at my neighborhood theater.  And, really, a lot of my friends don't like my taste.

But I own it.

Recently, I wanted to see "The Walk" about Philippe Petit's Walk across the Twin Towers as a wire walker. Problem is it was showing at a theater over 50 miles away.

I pondered it but I was moved by the reviews.  So, I jumped in the car and made the trek.  I got a little lost but I had given myself a cushion so I arrived exactly on time.

I was so glad I made the trip because the movie is great!  I was even given those 3D glasses, which made me look kinda cute. Because it is a true story, you felt triumphant as the story unfolded.  At times, I was in tears…at other times, I was jumping up and down with laughter.  And, at the height of the walk, I had to turn away so I wouldn't see how far he was from the street, and the real possibility of a fall -- and death.  With his team of accomplices, he did it and that was so uplifting.

I left the theater so exhilarated and so happy I made the journey.  Why?  Because it was worth the trip!

Monday, November 2, 2015

Treat yourself…it's a worthwhile investment

I recently attended a dinner dance. Because it is far from my home, I decided to spend the night at the hotel.

Pricey?  Yes.  Worth it.  Also yes.

I was able to luxuriate in a four-star hotel with a view of Lake Michigan.  So tranquil and serene.

In the morning, I walked over to the lake at sunrise and did some yoga breathing.  With the backdrop of the lake and the city’s beauty, I felt totally uplifted.  Walking back, I marveled at the tableaux of Chicago and got a renewed sense of appreciation for the city.

Later, I had brunch at the signature restaurant.  With omelete stations and an airy atmosphere, I was pleased to enjoy a full menu of breakfast delights.  I always check out the bacon and was happy that it was nice and crisp.


My coffee cup was constantly filled and I made too many trips for refills.  I checked out with a smile on my face and happy to have made the investment in ME.  It was worth it and I vowed to do it again…SOON!

Sunday, November 1, 2015

Embrace your quirky "likes"

I admit it.  I like certain television shows…especially the "Judge" shows.

I like Judge Mablean, Judge Karen, Judge Lynn Toler, Judge Judy.

I'm guilty.

I have decided not to deny these little fetishes.  I like them, learn from them, love the witticisms of the judges and the put downs.

Yea.  I like the shows and I embrace them.