I will admit that it’s been some time since I’ve written a blog entry. While my intentions were always to write something on a regular basis, this did not happen. Even though I don’t blog regularly, I am still writing nonetheless and for that I am thankful. Right now, I’m just trying to get myself more organized so that I can write even more than I do now. I’ve realized that being organized is essential to productivity in all aspects of my life.
On another note, the pastor’s sermon topic at this morning's worship service was, “God is not through with you yet” and this was a great message that was right on time for me. The sermon was centered on Philippians 1:6 (NKJV) – Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. I know without a doubt that God intends to do some more awesome things in my life. However, I have to be committed to doing the things that God asks of me in this season of my life in order to prepare me for the next.
As I look back over my life, I know that God has always been with me through the good and the bad times and for that I am forever grateful. If it's God's will, this time next week my daughter will turn 24 years old. And, it seems just like yesterday when I was a frightened and confused teenaged mother. I’m thankful that I knew God then and that I know God now. Most importantly, I’m grateful that “God is not through with ME yet.”
Peace!
Carla J. Curtis
Enjoyed the Concert
To start the show off, there was a local comedian from Chicago. Unfortunately, I can’t remember his name, but I do know that he was funny. After he did his comedic routine, he then introduced Fantasia and she made her grand appearance. All that I can say is that Fantasia can SING! Whew!! She’s got some vocal chords on her. Although she’s in her early twenties, she truly sounds like a veteran singer. She sings good enough for the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up. She’s truly got a long singing career ahead of her.
After Fantasia graced us with her presence, Jamie came on stage and started doing one of his comedic routines. He had the crowd laughing at his jokes as well as screaming, dancing and swaying to his music while he played the piano and sang. Jamie is truly a creative genius. Toward the end of the concert, Kanye West, made a guest appearance and they sang together the ever popular song, Gold Digger.
Overall, this was a great concert and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to go. Although I don’t watch American Idol on a consistent basis, I’m glad that in spite of the naysayers that Fantasia pressed her way through the competition. She’s a talented singer who deserved to win this competition. As for Jamie, I’ve been a fan of his for many years and it’s exciting to see this Oscar winner’s career blossom.
The Closing of 2006
As 2006 comes to a close, I’m thankful that God allowed me to live another year. Although I’ve experienced various trials, I now know without a doubt, that what won’t kill you, will make you stronger. I’m truly a living witness. In spite of the valleys, I know that I’m blessed and that no matter what, God has not forsaken me.
This year was not only filled with trials, but also some great times. One great thing that happened in 2006 that I’m reminded of right now is the birth on January 8 of my second granddaughter, Laila. She’s now walking and saying a few words--mostly shouting the name of her big sister and my oldest granddaughter, Jayden every chance she gets. Speaking of Jayden, I’ve been hanging out with her this weekend. Jayden and I are going to bring in the New Year watching movies and eating popcorn. It’s a blessing to be able to spend quality time with her.
In reference to writing, I've completed a new motivational book, which will be available in February for sale as an eBook. I also became a columnist on Blogging in Black (www.blogginginblack.com), with my posting date being the 21st of each month. I'm honored to be a part of this great blogging community.
On another note, last week, my aunt, cousin and I went to go see Dreamgirls. This movie is awesome! I do agree that Jennifer Hudson did her thing, but I feel that every actor and actress in Dreamgirls did a spectacular job. This movie is indeed a classic and I can’t wait until the DVD is released. I also saw the Pursuit of Happyness recently with my nephew, niece and Jayden. I must say this is a great and thought-provoking movie.
It is my hope and prayer that everyone that reads this blog entry has a Happy New Year.
Peace!
This year was not only filled with trials, but also some great times. One great thing that happened in 2006 that I’m reminded of right now is the birth on January 8 of my second granddaughter, Laila. She’s now walking and saying a few words--mostly shouting the name of her big sister and my oldest granddaughter, Jayden every chance she gets. Speaking of Jayden, I’ve been hanging out with her this weekend. Jayden and I are going to bring in the New Year watching movies and eating popcorn. It’s a blessing to be able to spend quality time with her.
In reference to writing, I've completed a new motivational book, which will be available in February for sale as an eBook. I also became a columnist on Blogging in Black (www.blogginginblack.com), with my posting date being the 21st of each month. I'm honored to be a part of this great blogging community.
On another note, last week, my aunt, cousin and I went to go see Dreamgirls. This movie is awesome! I do agree that Jennifer Hudson did her thing, but I feel that every actor and actress in Dreamgirls did a spectacular job. This movie is indeed a classic and I can’t wait until the DVD is released. I also saw the Pursuit of Happyness recently with my nephew, niece and Jayden. I must say this is a great and thought-provoking movie.
It is my hope and prayer that everyone that reads this blog entry has a Happy New Year.
Peace!
Cherish the Memories
What are some of your cherished memories? Is there a time in your life that sticks out more than the others? I recently had the pleasure of re-living some cherished memories when I worked on the staff of Senator Alan J. Dixon (D-IL) from 1987 to 1992 in Washington, D.C. The Senator served as a United States Senator for the state of Illinois from 1981 to 1993.
These great memories were rekindled on Friday, September 29, 2006, through an Al’s Pals, as the Senator’s former staff members are affectionately called, reunion held at d.s. Vespers Sports Pub & Eatery (www.at-the-edge.net) in Belleville, Illinois. This business is owned and operated by Mary Dahm-Schell, a former Washington, D.C. staff member, and her husband, Keith Schell. If you’re in the Belleville area, do yourself a favor and check out this fine establishment.
At this event, I engaged in many great conversations with people that I knew and with those whom I met for the very first time. Persons traveled from the Washington, D.C. area, Chicago and Springfield, Illinois, and a few other places within the Midwest to attend this event. There were many hugs, kisses, pictures taken and fond stories shared. The moment the guest of honor, none other than Senator Dixon, and his lovely, kind and sweet-spirited wife, Jody arrived, they were given a standing applause. The Senator and Mrs. Dixon made their way through the crowd and happily greeted everyone.
Some of the highlights of the evening included the Senator’s eloquent speech and the viewing of two tapes. All those in attendance seemed to enjoy these moments as well as the entire reunion just as much as I did. As the evening came to an end, everyone was still in high spirits, and glad to have had the opportunity get together for such a grand occasion.
Although it has been fourteen years since I’ve walked the halls of the Hart Senate Office building, I can honestly say that I’m thankful and blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such dedicated, positive and genuine people in my professional career. I gained a lifetime of knowledge in just five short years. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t be where I am today without having had this opportunity. I will always cherish the memories of my time working on the staff of Senator Alan J. Dixon. The Senator is one of the greatest politicians to have ever graced the halls of Capitol Hill.
Jody Dixon (Senator’s wife), Ann Callahan (Wife of Senator’s former WDC Chief-of-Staff,
Gene Callahan), Me and Britta Brackney (WDC office) in background talking with
Charlie Smith (WDC office)
Jimie Wheeler (Chicago office) in background, Senator Alan J. Dixon and Mark Schell
(Brother-in-law to Mary Dahm-Schell) clapping hands
Joanne Whitley (Former Secretary), Maria Petaros (Chicago and WDC offices),
Me and Barb Buscher Jacobsen (WDC office)
These great memories were rekindled on Friday, September 29, 2006, through an Al’s Pals, as the Senator’s former staff members are affectionately called, reunion held at d.s. Vespers Sports Pub & Eatery (www.at-the-edge.net) in Belleville, Illinois. This business is owned and operated by Mary Dahm-Schell, a former Washington, D.C. staff member, and her husband, Keith Schell. If you’re in the Belleville area, do yourself a favor and check out this fine establishment.
At this event, I engaged in many great conversations with people that I knew and with those whom I met for the very first time. Persons traveled from the Washington, D.C. area, Chicago and Springfield, Illinois, and a few other places within the Midwest to attend this event. There were many hugs, kisses, pictures taken and fond stories shared. The moment the guest of honor, none other than Senator Dixon, and his lovely, kind and sweet-spirited wife, Jody arrived, they were given a standing applause. The Senator and Mrs. Dixon made their way through the crowd and happily greeted everyone.
Some of the highlights of the evening included the Senator’s eloquent speech and the viewing of two tapes. All those in attendance seemed to enjoy these moments as well as the entire reunion just as much as I did. As the evening came to an end, everyone was still in high spirits, and glad to have had the opportunity get together for such a grand occasion.
Although it has been fourteen years since I’ve walked the halls of the Hart Senate Office building, I can honestly say that I’m thankful and blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such dedicated, positive and genuine people in my professional career. I gained a lifetime of knowledge in just five short years. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t be where I am today without having had this opportunity. I will always cherish the memories of my time working on the staff of Senator Alan J. Dixon. The Senator is one of the greatest politicians to have ever graced the halls of Capitol Hill.
Jody Dixon (Senator’s wife), Ann Callahan (Wife of Senator’s former WDC Chief-of-Staff,
Gene Callahan), Me and Britta Brackney (WDC office) in background talking with
Charlie Smith (WDC office)
Jimie Wheeler (Chicago office) in background, Senator Alan J. Dixon and Mark Schell
(Brother-in-law to Mary Dahm-Schell) clapping hands
Joanne Whitley (Former Secretary), Maria Petaros (Chicago and WDC offices),
Me and Barb Buscher Jacobsen (WDC office)
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