Southern Baptist Sissies

Some good lady friends from the Tampa Bay area are going to go see this production this week. Gypsy Productions is a non profit and the Artistic Director, Trever Keller, has done much for the Tampa Bay area community.
This production seems appropriate to me right now, since there have been some "Christians" on the Beach preaching intolerance and condemning all passers by. ( I guess they forgot about forgiveness and reconciliation and that Jesus hung out with the outcasts and those on the fringes) "Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being" "I will, with God's help." Book of Common Prayer (Baptismal Covenant)

Southern Baptist Sissies by Del Shores
January 19 thru February 11, 2007
Suncoast Theater (at the Suncoast Resort), St. Petersburg, FL

Follow the journey of four gay boys in the Baptist Church. Storyteller Mark Lee Fuller tries to create a world of love and acceptance in the church and clubs of Dallas, Texas, while desperately trying to find a place to put his own pain and rage. The world Mark creates also includes two older barflies, Peanut and Odette, whose banter takes the audience from hysterical laughter to tragedy and tears. With a theme of religion clashing with sexuality.

http://gypsyproductions.org

www.suncoastresort.com

Take Time to Regenerate

I took these pictures on Jacksonville Beach last weekend. It was chilly out (well, 40's-50's is chilly for Florida). My room was right on the beach, I left my curtains open, so my wake up call was the sunrise. I had some regeneration and meditative time just walking by myself. The beach was basically empty, so it was me, the wind, waves, birds and the occasional person walking their dog.

During the conference, some Wellness Seminars were offered, so I got to take care of some of my physical, emotional, spiritual and professional needs. My life isn't always in balance, but at least I was able to refocus a bit and just take care of myself. So, my recommendation: Take some time to regenerate, it helps.

Officer Friendly and the Estrogen Bus

Just got back from the NAECED Conference. The trip up was eventful. Was me and 5 women (some menopausal) in a Thrifty Rental Van. Took us 13 hours to get to Jacksonville from Miami (had to stop to pick up the other passengers).

On the way up, we stopped at a "Flying A" truck stop, just near St. Augustine, to fill up for gas. Just as we got back on I-95, the van began to sputter and shake, so we pulled off the road and the vehicle died. (Yes, we did put in the right gas, and no, it was not diesel) We were at mile marker 306.

We called the road service assistance, and during the course of our wait we spoke to Lawanda, Keisha, Eric and Connie. We had to wait for a flat bed tow truck to pick up a new van at the Thrifty lot in Jacksonville (50 miles away) and deliver it to us at the side of the road.

While we were there, hunky Officer Friendly (Florida Highway Patrol) stopped to render some assistance. I immediately got out of the van. He suggested we move the van off the road a little more, so he and I pushed it forward and off to the side. The ladies, of course, took a shining to this nice young man. So, what do you do when you have a nicely packaged officer assisting you at the side of the road? You cop a feel (or is that feel a cop?). I quickly asked him to get in a pose for a picture. I did tell the officer that if he was down in South Beach to stop by the Palace and that I'd treat him (more like treat "The Court") to a "special interactive shot". He smiled and shook my hand. He spent about a 1/2 hour with us, but we could not convince him to get into the van while we waited. I guess it's because he was alone and had no back up......

We waited for 4 hours before the new van arrived. In that time the temperature had dropped, which enhanced the need for "nature's call". At least we had a small flashlight and tissue for the ladies to use in the great outdoors. The grass was a little tall, so they had to be careful not to get any burrs on the carpet. No snakes or insects around.

We had many silly conversations about different topics. I was told I was to be awarded a Medal of Valor for not running away screaming from the ladies and their questions and comments. This just marked the beginning of a good weekend. Will blog about the conference later in the week.

Will definitely be out and about for a bit on Sunday. Will be looking forward to meeting up with Jerry this week while she is in town.

....Reconnecting with Family...

Had some cousins from my dad's side come to the house Wednesday evening. Cousin Lucy was the one who introduced my mom to my dad when they were attending Ponce High School. My great aunt, Candice (we call her Candy) gave us some stories of my grandmother and dad. The other cousins and I have known each other through pictures, cards and letters and telephone conversations, but had never met face to face. Also ends up that Candy's husband and my dad used to hang out when they were younger.

The group all met here for a quick get away from the cold weather. Candy and her husband are now in Omaha, Nebraska with her daughter. Lucy and her husband Peter are moving around. They are currently in North Carolina, but are moving to Vero Beach. Candy's daughter is also named Lucy and her brother inlaw is now on SOBE (Hmm?, late 20's, single, school teacher from Nebraska living in SOBE...he did not attend the gathering).

Some other family friends were invited to drop by, so of course, we had to prepare the usual Puertorican feeding: garden salad, pasteles, arroz con gandules, alcapurrias, guineos escabeche, shimp cocktail, assorted cheeses, finger sandwiches, chicken nuggets (for the little ones), fruit (mango, pineapple, water melon, papaya, bananas) and top it off with home made flan and a key lime pie.

What made my evening was Candy's stories of my dad and her recollections of his kindness and caring for her when other's in the family were not willing to do so. She brought a bag full of old photographs that I have never seen. There was some laughter and tears, but it really uplifted me to know that dad is still remembered fondly by friends and family. (My dad's side had conflicts, so my generation is the one that has been getting us all back together.) We ended the evening watching some DVD's of Puerto Rico and I gave them all copies of a song book with the Spanish standards my parents and grandparents loved.

and next.....

Am travelling Thursday with 5 women to the Annual Conference of the National Association of Episcopal Christian Education Directors (I'm a member) in Jacksonville, FL. Good thing is I get to meet up with 3 good friends who will be attending (one from New York, one from Seattle, and one from Tampa). So, will update the blog when I get back.

I do believe I will be needing some 'Spanish Court" therapy on Sunday after I get back.....

Darfur ... A Call To Your Conscience....

President Shrub in his "State of the Union" address mentioned Darfur (very briefly and near the end). Surprised me a bit and got me out of the coma he put me in earlier. This administration has done very little to assist Darfur and inaction has led to the loss of many lives (genocide) and the mistreatment of many people (especially women).

I recently attended an interfaith rally for Darfur. It was to be held at the Holocaust Memorial in Miami Beach, but due to rain, it was moved to Temple Emmanuel. It was a good, diverse crowd. I was glad to see many young people there (high school and college). The main speaker was Kendrick Meeks (a Florida politician, who is now on the Ways and Means Committee). There were speakers representing many faiths and denominations (Christian, Jewish, Muslim).

I was very proud of my Bishop (The Rt. Rev Leo Frade). He did not hold anything back and showed passion and condemned the current administration's lack of foreign policy. Just because they don't have oil, does not mean we have to let them die......

For those of you who do not know what is going on in Darfur or would like more info:

www.SaveDarfur.org

...Photographic Evidence....

I have always taken pictures...some published, and some not. I have only been digital since October 2006, so am still getting the hang of it. 2G and 1G of memory gives me much room to play with. I was speaking to someone about my Miami history and my "real" age. The photos shown here were taken with a Kodak instamatic camera. Date: August 12, 1973 Location: Miami Beach Convention Hall. It is of a little known group called the "Jackson 5" and their opening group was the "Commodores" with some singer named Lionel Ritchie .....






FYI: I have stated this publicly, but will state it here in writing.....I will not publish "incriminating or inappropriate" images without the consent of those in the subject. I will only publish images to support or enhance my entries. Any questions? e-mail me.

Happy Re-Birthday Mom!!!

Mom with Guest during Christmas




Mom in Puerto Rico



Mom in Tennessee

My mom was born in Puerto Rico. She is the youngest of nine sisters (only 6 made it to adulthood). My uncle is number ten and the only boy. She was raised in a time that you chose a career to study and did not have so many majors and choices. She decided to become an nurse.

I am very proud of her. Now that I am older I get to hear the stories of when she was younger from her friends. There are many adventures that I was surprised to hear about. Now I understand where I get some of my "instigator", need to care for people and practice charity characteristics/examples from.

Mom's first time ever off the island was to attend The Nursing School at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. Now, this was in the 1950's.....Can you imagine? A Puertorican in Tennessee in the 50's?! She was quickly accepted and made a good group of friends, some of which we still see and hear from.

So, she arrives in Tennessee in the Fall. There is a reception for the new students. What does she do? She puts on her best dress and heels. How do you find her in the sea of women dressed in black, gray, and brown? Easily, she wore a bright pink dress with the matching high heels. Needless to say, she did make an impression. Her comment is "Well, we don't have the change of seasons in Puerto Rico." ( I guess I also get the "I'll wear what I wanna" gene from her too.)

Mom did learn the rules of fashion, but has always worn colors. After my father passed away in the summer of 2000 (after 43 years of marriage, not including the courtship), she went into a deep mourning. For the next few years, she wore only black, gray, white and the occasional dark blue. She did continue working and is still working administering immunizations for the Health Department.

I am very glad to say that in the last year and a half, she has blossomed again. She has gone from a size 16 to a size 10 and has burst into all kinds of colors (including shoes, purses, jewelry and any kind of acceptable accessory). My sis, cousins and friends look at her and see her more alive than she's been in awhile. She really enjoys entertaining friends and family at the house. During Christmas when I was in a slump, she greeted people at the door with marracas, a guiro and tambourine and made them sing and dance before entering the house. So today, Mom, I am wishing you a Happy re-birthday! Love ya!

A bit cliche........but, Just Do It!

Sunday, March 25, 2006 is the 5K Celebrity Run for the Homeless. (www.celebrity5k.com) I am ready to register this week to participate. (I did participate in the Susan Komen Race for the Cure for Breast Cancer in the Fall on the Barcardi Team; and was going to do the ING Marathon next week, but I will be out of town.) The Celebrity 5k will take place in the morning and the course is basically going over the Mac Arthur Causeway(Children's Museum) up to South Pointe, Miami Beach.

I am encouraging all the friends and family that made the resolution to get"healthy" this year to get up and join me. Whether you do it for the cause or for yourself, get up and move....

Other events:

2007 Aids Walk/Run, South Beach - April 22, 2007 (www.aidswalk.kintera.org)

www.footworksmiami.com
This site has all upcoming walk/race events and also has resources for training, including the
Tribute to the Military, Merrick Park - February 25, 2007

Hospitality is Never Out of Style

Always provide for your guests, no matter what their age.....


Recovering from the first of my sis and her friends' "Celebration of the 40's" events. Though, this was also celebrating all the January Birthdays (including my Mom). Not all invited were in attendance, but they had the manners to R.S.V.P. approriately. The house was full with old friends and not so old friends. All ages were covered from 3 years old to 88 years old.... An "international" group with backgrounds from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Chile, Iran, Germany/Switzerland, The Bahamas, and the USA.

What I have always grown up with and love about having any type of "get together" at the house is that EVERYONE is welcome. Both my grandmothers had the reputation and tradition of welcoming and feeding anyone that graced their doorsteps. Our home has gained the same reputation. It is almost a lost art of hospitality. It could also be considered a ministry of hospitality. Everyone who is in our home is made to feel part of the family and accepted... We run the gambit of enjoying music, conversation, good food and drink and letting things run their course....sometimes the spontaneous sing along, prayer, dance in the street and even some "raunchy" jokes and stories (the octogenarian has the best stories). If someone is too tired or had a little too much "hospitality", there are always extra pillows, clean sheets and a new toothbrush handy.

I know many people are separated from family (either emotionally or physically) and some only share part of their lives with them. It is difficult. Some have moved to new locations and are making new friends, also difficult. Connections are sometimes hard to make, so when you do find them, do what you can to nurture them. So, as has been part of my upbringing, anyone who is in my home is welcomed unconditionally.

Note:Some rules apply to being a guest, but that is another topic.

....leave no Bush seedlings behind....

Our new republican, single, silver haired, tanned, well dressed Florida governor is Charlie Crist. He replaces Jeb Bush (brother of Shrub). I was disappointed that the Democratic candidate lost, but we gotta work with what we've got. He has stated that he wants to be the "people's governor".

It is not unusual for a new governor to enact changes, but Crist is definitely "rustling some feathers" (especially of those who gave a$$i$tance to his campaign). Last Thursday, he announced that he has cancelled all the nominations of 283 persons that ex-governor Bush made for persons to sit on various state boards and regulatory commissions. On Friday, he was pushing for legislation to lower our insurance rates (that have continued to increase dramatically over the last two years). A republican/politician keeping his word? Might he be a democrat in disguise? Visions of an independent thinker?

We did have a sigh of relief in Florida when Jeb was finally out.....can not wait until the country has it's collective sigh of relief when Shrub is out. (It's been stated by several people that Jeb was looking to purchase at a certain building on Miracle Way.)

As a note: When Crist was campaigning, he refused to appear with the increasingly unpopular President Shrub. This did upset some Whitehouse advisors. As another rumor has it, we are secretly waiting for the official Governor's Mansion White Party....

Happy Birthday Miss Tiffany!!

This week is Ms. Tiffany Fantasia Phillip's Birthday.

You can catch her in South Beach at:

Funkshion on Friday evening,

The Palace Food Bar on Saturday afternoon,

and Twist on Monday evening.

She is an energetic entertainer and will never disappoint you.

She is also a great person to know.

Wishing you much health, success, and

the joy of friends and family for your birthday!

....the celebrations have begun....

This year my younger sis and about 9 other friends are celebrating their thirty-ten birthdays (40th). There is a planned event every month, beginning this weekend with a get together at the family home (I'll be cooking). Here are just some quick quotes to get them thinking/started. Feel free to repeat them..... Enjoy!

"Age and treachery will triumph over youth and skill"

"Youth is a gift of nature. Age is a work of Art."

"You must be open to receive in order to be able to give..."

"You are only young once, but you can be immature forever."

...so many thoughts...I should smile more...

I was told by several people Monday evening that they enjoyed my smile and that it gave them some good energy. This definitely made my evening and so the post I was going to do today will be saved for another evening. It will be entitled "Emotional Currency....Are You Ready to Gamble?"

I met an attractive and nice lady,Jerry, from Provincetown. She and I connected in an intellectual and emotional way that is uncommon in these superficial days. She is a photographer and gave me some pointers. We discussed the range of subjects that one can find in this city, especially the interesting faces. We especially discussed the displaced people (emotional and physical) of the area. She really connected with the shopping cart lady that would not accept money from her. Her heart really goes out to these beautiful and sometimes abandoned people....everyone has a story. I'm sure we will keep in touch and maybe meet up again. I think she will be around now during "Season".

Ever since my younger sis got her own camera for Christmas, I have been hiding (at times) behind my camera. I'm attempting to be brief and light, but too many thoughts are stuck in my head and too many emotions are making it difficult to breathe easily (no, not asthma).

All the good people were out on Monday. Some to watch the football game for the National Title between Ohio State vs U of FL (yes, I do like sports....UF Gators won) and some for the casual conversation and fellowship. I was told that sometimes I am too nice (is there such a thing?). Thanks, C and D in Columbus (very cherished friends), for the quick phone conversation, sorry we got cut off..... Will touch base with you later in the week....
Mr. R: Am looking forward to reading your final product (FYI: I did the "Walk for the Cure" and "The Corporate Run" on the Barcardi Team).

Some random questions I do not necessarily need the answers to.

• If you give a personal gift, is reciprocation or "favors" implied or expected?
• Should you be a friend to have a friend?
• What does Mona Lisa's smile really hide?

I thank you Dr. Glenn, Dr. Grussmark (a.k.a. Superman) and Dr. Diamond for your professional dental services. FYI: All my dentist have been women and the orthodontist was a man, can you figure out which one is which?

Will take a break now. Thanks to those who have given me feedback and advice..... Gonna be a busy week........

Thanks for the opinion, but it's a family decision....

This weekend I was unable to frequent some of the regular places or do some of the things I had planned. I did receive an e-mail and some calls asking me if I was not out because of this reason or that person. I say this in writing...."They were all misguided and incorrect". I had some family, church and work business to take care of...the main of which was family.

Some of you might know or know of my older sister, Irma. She was diagnosed with "Degenerative Brain Disorder" when we were younger. This caused a progressive loss of her hearing, sight, and muscular control (to the point of spasticity/rigidity and difficulty swallowing). She became wheelchair bound with limited mobility by the time of High School. She was always an avid reader, keeping up to date on all the current news, scandals and Danielle Steel novels. She was a big fan of Donny Osmond and Dirk Benedict. She has read every single Hardy Boy mystery in print. She was intelligent with a bookish memory and had a good sense of humor. Her frustrations would lead to bouts of anger and tantrums. She was particular and detail oriented to the point of being obsessive compulsive. She knew what she wanted and was not satisfied until it was done to her liking. She loved rings and bracelets, especially if they were silver, diamond or blue sapphire.

I apologize if I am misguiding you into thinking that she is no longer present. She is still here, but not the way she used to be. On an evening in April of 2004, upon my return from a trip to Puerto Rico, Irma was listless and unable to communicate. An emergency room visit to Jackson Memorial Hospital and a month's stay in the hospital later, she returned home in a Permanent Vegetative State (A Schiavo State). She receives nutrition, fluids and medications through a feeding tube attatched through her abdomen. The family decision is to keep her at home as long as she is comfortable and we are able to care for her properly. If her condition worsens or we are unable to keep up the quality of care, then we will make another family decision at that time.

This week, Irma is having some respiratory distress and on an antibiotic treatment which has the side effect of (putting it nicely) many messy diapers. My mother is a registered nurse and I have the practical skills to handle some of the medical issues and daily care of my sis. We have some paid assistance, but that is on a limited basis. None of the regular home help persons were able to come in this weekend.

Part of the reason I am writing about this is that an acquaintance decided to spew his opinion and personal beliefs about "Right to Life", "Quality of Life", and what my responsibilities really should be. (He thinks I do not need to be involved in the care of family at all.) This was very difficult to listen to, being a Miami born Puertorrican in a close knit family that has always cared for one another. My anger is in someone giving their unsolicited views without offering any assistance or solutions. An educated opinion or view is always appreciated, but personal rantings are not.

There are many people, besides myself, that have to deal with illnesses, disabilities, or other issues with people they care about. Any support is always appreciated, both to the person in distress and the care taker or giver. It does take a toll on a person. What is not appropriate and not appreciated are comments and rantings that do nothing to help the situation. It only makes those involved more stressed than they already are. One needs to honor the decisions made at these times. They are difficult to make and no one is ever 100% sure they are making the right one. I am lucky that there are people in my life that offer prayers and support.

To family, friends, acquaintances and others that are dealing with any type of care giving or support: May your compassion never fail. Thank you for giving your loved one relief from pain and the hope of health renewed or peace. May you have the strength to continue and be able to take time to nurture your body and soul.

You're so vain, you probably think this blog is about you...

Two good friends that gave me perspective this week....





Received a call from an old friend this week asking if some of my references this week was about him. My answer was "if the shoe fits, wear it ..., but no, it was not about you." I am trying not to mention names in my blogs in order to protect the innocent, or at least to keep the breath of scandal and rumor away from prying ears that do not have good intentions.

Those that were around me and interacted with me this week (socially, professionally, casually, etc.) can identify with some of the references or experiences of the week. Of course, it is all my opinion, observation, point of view. If anyone thinks that I am really off base, please let me know.

If I do decide to write specifically about any particular person, I will attempt to keep it above board and positive. If not, then no names will be used. If I have a particular problem or difficulty with a person I believe in going to them directly.....otherwise it would be cowardly to speak behind their back or in a public forum. In return, I do ask the same of family, friends and acquaintances to do the same if they have any sort of questions about or difficulty with me.
Communication is important in all relationships.

On the news front: Will be in London, United Kingdom February 15-21, 2007. Any advice will be appreciated. Will also be taking some "wellness" time at the annual conference of the National Association of Episcopal Christian Education Directors in Jacksonville, FL at the end of this month. So am on target with some of the things I said I'd do this year.

Enjoy your day, and if you think this blog is about you ...... hmmm?

Full Moon Residual Effects

This week we had the first full moon of 2007. The moon in the Miami sky always mesmorizes me. It shines like an additional street lamp hanging by the clouds and brightens up the city. I do believe in the "Full Moon Effect". My emotions and actions were all over the place this week....from pensive and professional, sad and depressed, happy and spontaneous, angry and pouting to caring and nurturing (no, I am not bi-polar and do not have a personality disorder). I always try to (as a good friend says) "Survive with dignity."
People, including myself, tend to act in ways they normally would not as a usual part of their nature during this celestial event....the spontaneous, instigated belly shot, the stolen kiss, the lover's quarrel, ignore people, dance under the stars........ Though the good thing is that I also see good, caring people surround those in need or distress and help them with what they have in their power to do. The core of the person remains unchanged, they do not do anything hurtful or spiteful. So, feel free to Howl at the Moon!!! Peace.

Bright New Day....

The New Year has started off with a bang. Family, old friends, new friends and friends to be were all part of an excellent start to the merriment.... I made dinner for family that was in town for the holidays. Had some "children" time with the 8 year olds, then headed out to South Beach for adult time and celebrated within the crowds and warm breezes of Ocean Drive at the Palace. It was great to be in the midst of a mixed crowd that was joyful, pleasant and all inclusive. There is a light that shone brightly in the evening when I could see that all could coexist regardless of beliefs, personal preferences, backgrounds, etc. Does give me hope and increases my optimism in people.


New Year's day I was able to spend with my godson before his departure the following day. The evening found me back at the Palace and later on to Twist for a bit, again running into old and new friends. A smile can cure many things and this evening it did for me.

I am back into the swing of things at work. The piles of work didn't seem so daunting after having had a full week off for the holidays (Though I did go into the office on and off during the week). I am able to focus again and get things done. Have been able to make my plans to be in London,UK in February (Will have my birthday there). Will most likely also be in Toronto in the Spring or Summer. Some tentative plans for New York, Dudley(in Massachusetts), and the Dominican Republic.

A spirit of gratitude came over me this morning. It was cloudy and rainy as my sister and I took my godson and his mom to the airport. They will be back in a few months but, the honesty, hug and spirit of a child sure makes the adult things not so important. Connecting with people...all people...is a good thing and can nurture your soul as well.....

Until next time...... Peace.

My first blog.....Ever!

2007 - A year to rediscover my passions

2006 was a great year for me. I have been blessed with a job that I like with people and opportunities that have opened many doors for me. My family and friends continue to be a source of support and stress. (It happens when it is your nature to try to protect and nurture people.)

I was very fortunate to meet some great people this year, forming some new friendships that I hope will continue to grow. The best thing that happened this year is that I learned I can be open to love again, to feel, to lose love, to go through the highs and lows and still be able to go forward. No resentments. Some sadness, but very thankful for the joy. I live with the optimism and hope that all relationships are open to change and growth.

So, now, 2007!!! It is the year to rediscover my passion for life and wonder. I will travel. I will take on projects with a purpope. I will cherish friendships and nurture the ones I have. I will take time to do some introspection and feed my Spirit. I will take care of the body that has been given to me. I will take action and not sit by and let things just happen to me. I will speak up, stand up and take the time to care.

Until my next posting.....Have a great New Year and discover or rediscover your passions!!!