BYOB- Members Only

Good Morning and Happy Hump Day!

I wish I could blog something everyday, but this whole work thing gets in the way sometimes. At least once a day, I think... "I should blog that!" But the day gets away from me, I lose the train of thought and it's another blog down the drain. Today I decided I was just going to start typing and see what comes of it... lol. Luck!

It's not really much going on in Tam World right now (maybe I should take that back after spending a few seconds thinking on it). There are quite a few important family birthdays this month. J's oldest, Jaz turned 13 just yesterday, J has a bday coming up next week, and my SWEET Nae will officially be 16. That in itself is A LOT... but other than that, (and all the thinking and planning that goes into making every one's birthday a joy), I'm just working, loving home, considering a few new crafts, ebay shopping my head off, party planning, reading (as always) *just now I wanted to insert Reading Rainbow theme song here* (so I did, lol). But yea, I am enjoying the direction BYOB (book club) is going in. I love book club! I love the ladies that come and discuss, I love watching it grow, I love the new ideas, the books... everything. I have watched it grow from a small group, sometimes just Jules and I and maybe one other, to filling my living room. But even in the beginning, no matter how many showed up, it was a good time. I am proud of it. And I thank everyone for their commitment to it.

A special shout out to Jules (my partner in BYOB crime), she has always supported it, shown up for it and contributed much to it. I can't even count the number of times I'd forgotten all about discussion questions, but of course... Jules :), always on top of EVERYTHANG! *sighs* And then there's "Bobby", she hasn't missed a meeting since she's started. She's so dedicated to READ or Die (trying)!!! Her commitment to it makes my heart smile. I appreciate everyone who's ever, even if it were just once, shown up to be a part of BYOB. We've lost a few along the way :(, but we're still going strong and I welcome every single last one of you back. To my regulars, those that come when they can, and even those that never read and just show up for the cupcakes... I appreciate ALL of you! And to my newest members, I hope you all enjoy and stay! Everyone has been a welcome addition to the group. I don't think anyone could grasp just how important BYOB is to me. Something I started and it's growing... it's like my baby! :) I just went back to old emails and learned the very 1st book club was December 4th, 2010... we must celebrate our 2 year anniversary this year! Oh, the wheels are turning!

I seriously need to consider making BYOB exclusive, and not continue to allow anymore newbies. I loved seeing it grow, but we are starting to run out of space. I am not against having rotating members, I am aware every one's schedule will not allow them to make every meeting. But I can only imagine the day when more than 15 people show and I wonder just how and where I am going to fit all these folk!  I don't want BYOB to become some Bourgeois "Members Only" club,  but it's looking like it may have to. My manager at work has been in a book club for 15 years, and hers doesn't allow any new attendees unless they vote them in. Maybe I should be on that level LOL! So I really do suggest you get in while you fit in and claim your spot.

Right now we are reading Steve Harvey's Straight Talk, No Chaser. As I'm reading it, I am trying to see if there was any parallels to my dating J. Cause clearly, I found, kept, and (not sure I) understand that man. I plan to interview him before book club meeting on October 13th, just to see what he thinks about Mr. Harvey's take on what all men are thinking.

I hope you all get a chance to experience BYOB in all it's glory... once you go BYOB, you never go back! Maybe that isn't worded too well... LOLOLOLOLOL!!! Ya'll get what I'm saying. Until next time... READ or Die (trying)!!!

That's my (book club) peace! Love, Tam

Spotlight on L.O.V.E.

Hello! And Happy Wednesday World!!! :)

I've decided to do something new... I am going to start "Spotlighting" my friends. A lot of my friends are doing major things. I often sit back and watch in wonderment all the many things people I know are involved in and doing. And although I am admiring from afar, sometimes certain accomplishments, deeds, services, acts (random or otherwise) should go more than noticed... they should be spotlighted! :)

The Ladies of Valor & Excellence Academy, Inc 

Jamel Harris is involved with an organization, The Ladies of Valor and Excellence Academy, Inc. (L.O.V.E.),  a mentoring program for young girls ages 11-18. "The L.O.V.E. Academy's goal is to foster a commitment to young ladies that will promote pro-social friendships, strong interpersonal skills, reassert a sense of self-love and class."
Being a woman and mom of 5 girls, I am well aware of the pressures, issues and concerns young women face through out daily living. From school work, to friendships, to hygiene, and etiquette... overall, learning how to be, and growing into a successful woman is a task in itself. The L.O.V.E. Academy is designed to cover all the bases. They have programs that focus on Life & Social Skills, Cultural Awareness, Community Involvement, Academic Enhancement, Mentoring and Tutoring. It is the perfect opportunity and outlet for a maturing, young lady. Spending time with like minded, growing young ladies, volunteering in the community, exposure to cultural and international differences, strong commitments to learning and central focuses on mentoring and tutoring are all key components of  The L.O.V.E. Academy experience.It is imperative that we sow good seeds into our youth, especially our young women. Too many of our young girls are being mislead by current pop culture on what it means to really be a lady. We need to make sure they are being impacted more positively to counteract today's growing influence on them. We have to take the initiative and guide them in the right direction. I have not had the opportunity to join in any L.O.V.E. activities, but I hope to have the opportunity to support them in the future.
It is programs like these, that young girls need in place to help them succeed in the world today and assist them in becoming "thriving, self-reliant young ladies". I commend Jamel, and all the women involved, for their dedication and sacrifice to these young ladies.

 If you are interested in becoming a member of The L.O.V.E. Academy, or interested in volunteering your time to mentor a young girl, please feel free to visit their website http://www.theloveacademy.org. They are currently reviewing applications for membership... so go sign up! If you know a young girl who you think may be interested in being a part of this incredible organization, please pass on the information.

Visit the website and support this group!

I hope you seriously take a look into The L.O.V.E. Academy, they really deserve this (my very first) "Spotlight". If you SPOT a group or someone making positive changes in the community (big or small, locally or internationally, in private or from the rooftops) let me know and I will be sure to help shine the LIGHT on them...

til next time,, that's my peace!

Love, Tam