Thursday, August 28, 2008

TT #3 - Thirteen Traits

So I recently put my ad on a single's site. So far it's been quite disappointing, though to be fair, I've only been on there a few days. I'm impatient like that. ;-)

When I say disappointing, I am referring to the conversations (or lack thereof) for the most part and just the types of responses I receive. One guy has no picture posted but asked for my e-mail to send them to me... then said, "if you like me, you can call me at work". What the Hell - you don't know me and you'd bloody give me your private info? That just screams desperate and mildly psycho to me. Another guy sends his introductory message to me saying, "do u like black guys?????????". Yes, he used that many question marks. I was going to respond and enlighten him to the fact that I see no colors in love or life, but that I did see stupid when people make assumptions (an ASS out of U and Me) about racial issues. I decided to just ignore him and carry on my marry, Mexican way. (*^_^*)

In creating my profile, it brought to light all of the traits I look for in a date/partner/future spouse (and love-slave). It's not that I am Hell-bent on the perfect man, but I've been burned and let down *so* many times that I know precisely what I need in my life. Most guys just don't seem to fit the shoes needing to be filled. Even sadder, my list isn't so far-fetched or unattainable that it is a decathalon just trying to be that *great* man.

Here I'll list 13 traits I seek in a guy (actually most of this carries on over into friendships, too):

1. Honesty - Be it brutal or subtle, I need someone who is honest with me at all times, not when it is convenient or suits them best.
2. Solid, open communication - If we can't talk about our problems, our successes, and so on, then we are simply acquaintances.
3. Sense of humor - Okay, I'm a big goober and a gigglebox. Me and Mr. Serious just won't work, LOL. Tried it before and it made me feel like doing something totally random and off the wall everytime a conversation was so serious... which was ALL the freaking time.
4. Ability to be serious when needed - see the post above. Just because I want someone funny, doesn't mean I should have to tell him when it is time to be serious.
5. Faithfulness - I can't even believe this has to be explained but some folks don't even understand this concept anymore. I believe in 2 people in a loving relationship... not 3 or 4 or whatever tickles your fancy during your "moment".
6. Strength - both physically and emotionally strong. I am extremely strong and independent, moreso because I've had to be. I've never had anyone to help support me in any way, even emotionally. I'm always the pillar, the solid foundation... and because no one is that strong spotter for me, when I fall - I fall hard. I want to know that someone has my back through it all and that if I feel weak or let down, I can be lifted back up and carried if needed.
7. Spiritual - I don't care what religion or belief set he holds, but I do need someone with a spiritual nature to them. Even an atheist/agnostic is alright, so long as they aren't doing it out of spite or constantly angry with religion.
8. Family man - Having two kids, this is a huge must. He has to love children and love them blindly and unconditionally. He has to always keep the family in mind when making decisions or choices. A good family man does whatever it takes to be there for his family.
9. Balanced - This one is a bit more general. I like a man who is balanced, not too dominant and not too submissive; not too funny to where he can't be taken seriously, nor too serious where there is no laughter; responsible, yet can let loose and have fun; and just overall comfortable with who they are and able to balance all of the positives and negatives in their lives.
10. Compassionate - not only towards me and my children, but towards everyone. Someone who isn't afraid to help someone out or rise to the occasion without being asked to assist.
11. Childlike - not childish. To be childlike, you must love unconditionally, easily forgive, be carefree and hopelessly happy, enjoy the little things in life, and get right up after you've falled down... over and over again.
12. Affectionate - I'm very touchy-feely so it is a requirement that I have someone who enjoys the same and reciprocates equally. This also carries over to the children - I worry about people who shy away from physically expressing their love for someone, especially children.
13. Passionate - This applies to all areas of life, not just in the bedroom. *smiles* I need someone who gives it their all, tries their best, and never lets go of their desires.

Do you know this guy? If so, send him my way... you may even get a finder's fee. *winks*

Thursday, August 21, 2008

TT # 2 - I Want It and I Want It NOW!!!

I'm feeling very antsy this morning and thought I'd be rather selfish in this week's Thursday 13. These are somewhat realistic things that I want right now, dang it!

1. For my unemployment appeal to be approved.
2. To be all moved into my new house.
3. To reach that point where I can work at home full-time.
4. To have my next tattoo.
5. I want to be in Michigan right now!
6. I want *her* to be as far away from me now (and always, actually).
7. I want a certain visiting aunt to be gone, vanquished until next time.
8. I want to be in love... madly in love.
9. I want to sleep better and stop needing a nap during the day.
10. I want to be finished with my diet and weight loss.
11. I want my nose pierced again.
12. I want high speed internet and cable at my new home.
13. I want to feel appreciated, at least just for today.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

I Want You To Know...

I want you to know how BEAUTIFUL you are. You have this radiance about you that is irresistable. Your smile can instantly brighten up anyone's mood... and I can only imagine how everyone instantly grins as they see that smile spread across your lips.

I want you to know how INTELLIGENT you are. I sense you already know this, but you need to be reminded of it. I am so proud of you for finishing up school and working towards your goals and dreams.

I want you to know that I admire your OPTIMISM. It's nothing like I've ever experienced before - it almost deserves a new word to describe it. How about TajOptimism? *giggles* You are so goal-driven and successful. Hearing you being so positive is always so inspiring for me. I know that the road will only continue to get easier for you... you will move forward and all of your dreams will come true.

I want you to know how FUNNY you are! I crack up anytime we chat online or talk on the phone. Factor in that sweet little voice of yours and that Southern drawl - it's the perfect combination.

I want you to know how ADORABLE you are. I'm referring to inside and out - you're especially so cute with your little mannerisms! You are so SWEET and KIND - often times moreso than folks may deserve. I can't possibly imagine you not fitting in anywhere - everyone is drawn to you, attracted by your magnetic personality.

Most importantly, I want you to know that you are WONDERFUL as YOU. Please don't ever change - you'd not only do yourself a disservice, but you'd greatly dissapoint those of us who love and appreciate you.

Hispanic Heroes

I want to take a moment and blog about two of my all-time heroes, who both happen to be Hispanic and dear to me - Cesar Chavez and Jaime Escalante.

Cesar Chavez was a Mexican-American labor-leader and civil rights activist. He and Dolores Huerta created the National Farmworker's Association back in the late 50's/early 60's. Chavez helped lead several strikes for migrant workers in California and eventually into Texas and other areas.

Chavez was a believer of Ghandi's passive resistance measures. He'd often fast for weeks, sometimes months, to help his cause and draw public attention. It worked! Sales would drop of the boycotted produce and completely wipe out profit margins. The "big dogs" were forced to take notice and corrective measures.

Most Hispanics, escpecially us Mexicans, see Chavez as the "Hispanic MLK". He did so much for not only the Hispanic community in general, but for all migrant workers.

My dad and his family were migrant workers. They moved to wherever the crops were and all of the kids, spare my uncle who suffered some minor brain damage, would all work in the fields once old enough. My dad grew up in Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Louisianna, and Michigan - shuffled about anytime they needed to move to pick new crops. This is one of the many reasons he is one of my personal heroes, too... but that's for another post, someday.

My dad also was able to meet Chavez back in the 70's when he attended a UAW convention out in California. He was amazed at how little he was, yet, how his presence completely filled the room! He was an amazing man with a remarkable energy about him.

For more information on Cesar Chavez, click here.

As for Jaime Escalante, he was a math teacher in Los Angeles who brought about massive change and reform in Garfield High School. It was a school where most students cared little to nothing about education - a tough place to be a teacher.

But he found a handful of students wanting to take an algebra class from him and the transformation began. He'd work long hours, raise funds for Advanced Placement testing fees, and often got involved in the students' lives to help them succeed. With each year his class sizes increased, as did the students who passed the Advanced Placement exams.

Several times during his teaching term, he was threatened by school officials, administrators, etc. He rarely sought out permission for fund-raising or changes in the curriculum, knowing his ideas would be shot down due to the lack of concern for the students at Garfield.

There was a movie that came out back in the 80's, based on his story, called Stand and Deliver. This movie is what introduced me to him and made me want to learn more. In 9th grade, I did a report about him and can still remember how proud I was to stand up and teach the class (and teacher) about this wonderful man.

You can read more about Escalante here.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

TT #1 - A Thankful Thursday

One of the things I noticed about my new friends at Plurk.com was TT or Thirsday Thirteen. Each Thursday, several bloggers post a 13 item list of their choice to their blog. It gets rather ineteresting to see what folks choose to post about every week. Here's my first go at it. *smiles*

13 Reasons Why I Am Thankful:

1. I am thankful for my children - I would be nothing without them.
2. I am thankful that I am creative and artistic.
3. I am thankful for my dad and all that he does to help me in life (while teaching me, too).
4. I am thankful that I am provided for - I am rich according to the world's standards.
5. I am thankful for the many friends I have met at Plurk recently - you guys rock.
6. I am thankful that I am fortunate enough to live each day without being in famine, war, destitution, or political upheaval.
7. I am thankful for the many blessings that come my way during the darkest hours.
8. I am thankful that I am strong and resilient.
9. I am thankful that I love who I am and no one will ever bring me down.
10. I am thankful for my intelligence.
11. I am thankful for my abilities, while made humble by my disabilities and downfalls.
12. I am thankful that I can learn from my mistakes and see a lesson being taught during rough times in my life.
13. I am thankful that I am live today.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Because of You...

You're such an inspiration for the person I will never, ever choose to be.

Because of you, I know I am a better parent. I don't hit my children, much less even lay a finger on them - I never have nor will I ever. I don't call them names or try to belittle them. I've never ignored my children when they cry or are in need of comforting. I've never became angry at them when they were ill or needed medical attention. I've never made ugly remarks about my children's friends - their appearance, their background, their parents, or anything of that sort. I will also never make distasteful and hateful remarks about the people that my children will date someday - I will not call them ugly, dirty-looking, stupid, ghetto, or worse. I will never play favorites with my children or border on neglecting a child while seemingly worshipping the other child.

Because of you, I know I am a better person. I am positive and optimistic, though realistic, and have hopes and dreams. I help others whenever possible without broadcasting it to everyone in search of praise and glory. I always strive to treat everyone equally and without judgement.

Because of you, I know I am a better relative to my family members, outside of my immediate family of me and my children. I will never be cold or unwelcoming to my mentally handicapped uncle simply because he can be annoying at times. I will never turn my back on my brother simply because I don't agree with his actions or decisions he makes in his life. I will never pick and choose which nieces or nephews I will acknowledge come holidays or special times - I will love and honor them equally.

Because of you, I know that I was a better wife (when married) and that I will be a better wife once re-married some day. I would never say nasty things about my spouse's family or friends. I would never order my spouse around or try to control the relationship. I would cherish every moment with my husband, enjoying time spent together, and always be supportive of his decisions. I would never tell him to "shut up" or "go to Hell", or worse. I would "fight fairly" and never pull any low blows in an argument, no matter how heated. I would give and take equally in the relationship and not have the scales tipping too much to either side.

Because of you, you will lose me. I know at some point in my life I will completely rid myself of you. I know that right now is not the time due to my current circumstances, but I also know that I will triumph and fly far above what anyone expects of me, possibly even exceed my own expectations. I know that you will eventually understand and regret the way that you treated me all of these years... yet I know that you would never apologize or admit this to me or anyone, for that matter. I know that I could eventually forgive you someday, but am reminded that forgiving you would never go hand-in-hand with wanting to reconcile with you.

Because of you, I am thankful that I am not you... I am nothing like you.

Friday, August 8, 2008

Tag - I'm It!!!

So, my dear one over at Mean Girls Need Not Apply tagged me for this meme. Enjoy (*^_^*)

What was I doing 10 years ago?
1 month away from the worst mistake in my life - marrying a complete asshole.

What are five things on my to-do list today?
1. Take the kiddos to school
2. Go down to CSS and raise Hell
3. Go to the new house and start cleaning
4. Go home and do more packing
5. Plurk

Snacks I enjoy:
Cool Ranch Doritos, fresh coconut, tortilla with butter, pickles, sesame sticks, olives, peanuts and rice crackers.

Places I’ve lived:
Michigan, Tennessee & New Mexico.

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Pay off all debts. Build my dream home and possibly a couple of vacation homes. Build a dream home for my parents and pay off all of their debts. New vehicles for us all. First investments would be to build apartments. Start several businesses - mostly online biz types. Put up plenty for a rinay day and for kids. Start businesses for kids so that they can earn their own money, too. Donate to multiple charitable foundations.

I am specifically tagging ALL OF YOU! Go on, then!

Whoa, Time Flies!

I can't believe how long it has been since I last posted. Wait - yes I can. Read my first post on here and you'll see that I *knew* going in that my past track record with blogs has been this way. Oh, by the power of fudge, I want to change!

Great... now I am hungry for fudge.

I've been spending *lots* of time on Plurk lately. I've met some FANTASTIC friends so far and have really enjoyed my time there! Several of them actively blog and I was urged to get mine up and shared with others.

So, here I am. More to come soon... (*^_^*)