Editor’s Edict

Have you ever given advice and then realized you didn’t take the very advice you doled out? I’m guilty of that! The other night I was complaining to friends that I was upset the Cabaret wasn’t further along and that I was a bad business woman because I still need funding and blah blah. Now, by telling my friends I needed help, I was able to receive help, but I’m not particularly happy with how the request poured out of my mouth. I was not coming from a place a joy – i.e. I wasn’t rejoicing in how well I’ve done these past three years with the Cabaret…I wasn’t looking at the positive side in what I HAVE, I was looking at what I DON’T HAVE. I forgot to rejoice. So now, I’m gonna take a moment to do just that. I’m at a café (my “office”) working on the Gazette and RUN DMC and Aerosmith’s song, “Walk This Way” is playing…please hold while I dance in the aisles for a moment of rejoicing....! (OK, I’m back. I was too chicken. I got up and strutted to the bathroom to the beat of the song and pretended to dance. Close enough.)

I encourage you to find your own way of rejoicing this month (and beyond). Feel free to start by enjoying this month's Gazette! You'll find all the great stuff, per usual. Our Brown Bettie is LeShay Tomlinson Boyce (a revival in honor of her 1-yr anniversary of marriage); our Bad Boy is funny man, Rodney Perry. Tanya Alexander-Henderson keeps us fluid with her poetry, "My Life, My Way"; our tax advisor, Baadja-Lyne Ouba offers more tips for Home Owners in "Unzipped". My dad tells you throw a party to find work in "Father Knows Best" while my mom reminisces about some fluffy Easter Chicks in "Momma Said". For the Bettie in you, don't forget to check out Tip #3 on how to keep looking for love in all the wrong places in "Brown Bettie Knows Best", and peruse some lovely lingerie in the "Love, Hate, Want, Need" article. Keena Ferguson offers her last installment on her trip to see President Obama in “Brown Bettie Beautifully” and Cecilie Davis Carter tells you look at the bright side "In My Solitude". And if you're feelin' down, take advice from Sidney Gaskin in "Enterprising Bettie". (I did!) After all that, sit back and chill with the tenth fiction installment of "Harlem's Awakening".

Happy April my friends!

xo
The Hot One

peppur@brownbetties.com

A Brown Bettie Becomes Her Dream

by Peppur Chambers

LeShay ("Mad Energy") Tomlinson Boyce
Actor. Newlywed. Bonus Momma

Miss LeShay and I met years ago in Chicago's former upscale hot spot, the Shark Bar where she was a waitress--rather, I'd like to say she was the self-appointed "Maitre'D Mamma-Hostess With The Mostess" of a grand par-tay. Were it not for her required server uniform, I imagine LeShay would have worked the deep mahogany room in a crisp, white Dior party dress with a dry martini in one hand and a delicate mini-quiche in the other...all while graciously smiling at her guests like Mr. Roarke on Fantasy Island. Most times, LeShay was the primary reason my crew and I would return night after night because she made me feel so welcome. LeShay was also one of the first of my Chicago friends to declare that she was moving to LA to act in film. I remember thinking, "Wow! For real?" I, myself, was headed to New York to sing, but to act in LA...now that was somethin'. Today, LeShay, a native of Queens, NY and an eight-year transplant to Los Angeles is a working actor and a newlywed which not only elevated her status to that of "Mrs.", but also placed her on a new throne of motherhood. Even with all these titles that bring on a new set of responsibilities and demands, she remains as gracious and talented as ever. Recently I saw her on stage at the Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) Storyteller Competition where she acted in a scene from Derek Lively's finalist screenplay, "The Nigga", about an out-of-work Shakespearean actor who transforms into a gangsta rapper and becomes a star. While playing a grounded, yet sassy, strong-willed executive who'd been wrongly accused, her graciousness towards the other actor, David Bianchi, as well as the command of her craft had the audience suspended on her every word. (As a result, this screenplay also won the competition!)

Ultimately, Mrs. LeShay Tomlinson Boyce knows how to ENTERTAIN and anyone that knows her, whether professionally or socially, will say the same.

LeShay, I've been wondering something: I tend to pronounce your name Lah-Shay and sometimes I hear you see Lee-Shay. Which is it, please?
It’s technically LeeeeeShay. That’s the name my mother gave me– when I started school my teachers would add the jazzy French pronunciation Lahchez, and I didn’t bother to correct them because I liked that too. LeeeShay is reserved for family.

As actors, we are constantly being defined, undefined, redefined...How do you define yourself these days? If at all?
For the first time in my career, I’m not defining myself as just an Actor. Which is really a nice change – I’m now a real grown up, with responsibilities – it’s really something. So now I define myself as a GAW – a GROWN ASS WOMAN!

What's your next project?
Well now that my former employer’s been acquitted of all charges, maybe “KATHY” from ‘Trapped in the Closet’ will appear in Chapters 50 – 100 of the next installment. :)
KIDDING.

But seriously, I currently have two AFI (American Film Institute) films traveling the festival circuit, the comedy “The Lutheran” and the drama “Stitches”.

Editor's note 4/09: LeShay is in Elite Delta Force 3 also; http://www.elitedeltaforce3.com/

What is your biggest dream?
Receiving the Tony Award for my 1 Woman Show on Broadway directed by Meryl Streep.

Do you have any re-occurring dreams? If so, tell us! If not, why do you think that is?

YES! It’s the one where I start chewing a piece of gum that gets bigger and bigger, and every time I try to pull it out, there’s more and more gum in my mouth. I think it means, I have a lot to say and I NEED TO JUST SPIT IT OUT!

What scared you today - literally or figuratively?
The thought of my in-laws coming.

In my opinion, you are a person that creates synergies --whether you are making your famous tuna salad or whether you are on the big screen. How do you maintain this mad energy?

Wow. Thank you. Actually it’s genetic. And God on the inside of me.

You were married recently (4/08) in Mexico to a wonderful man. Do you remember the day? If so, what stood out the most for you?
The overwhelming feeling of Joy –It was the happiest I’ve ever felt.

I became a stepchild around the same age as your "new kids"; what's the best thing you have learned from them so far?
And I like to say “Bonus”, instead of Step – Step sounds so……not positive.
So you ask, what’s the best thing I’ve learned from my bonus children……PATIENCE.

What advice would you give your step-daughter as she grows to become her own Brown Bettie?
Wait.
Don’t rush in to anything….Think before you act.
And don’t call/text him, if he likes you give him the opportunity to pursue you.

There's a classic Peanuts book titled, "Happiness Is A Warm Puppy" (Charles Schulz' first book). It sites random stuff that makes a person happy, like, "Happiness is a blank piece of paper". Fill in the blank.

"Happiness Is FORGIVENESS."

http://www.leshayonline.com/

Father Knows Best
By Roscoe Chambers

I'm the proud father of (you guessed it) Peppur Chambers. Our family has been in the Human Resources and owners of an Executive Search firm for several years. And because “FATHER KNOWS BEST” I’ve been asked to contribute to the award winning “Brown Betties Gazette”. I will attempt to provide pertinent information pertaining to employment search strategy for job seekers, various employment articles, and postings of open job opportunities nationwide.


Greetings,

Out of work? No worry. In this segment of “Father knows best” I want to give you the 411 on a topic that is never ending when you find yourself unemployed: the personal makeover from the “OLD you to the NEW you”.

1. Give Yourself a Makeover
After a relationship breakup the majority of people lose weight, get in better shape, buy some new clothes and start looking their best in order to attract a new mate. You need to do the same to attract a new job. You need a positive attitude now more than ever. Your day-to-day life is about to change. Start off with this change on the right foot by feeling terrific about yourself. Most people who have been in a relationship or on a job for awhile let themselves fall into personal habits that can degrade their appearance. Get out and have a manicure and haircut – maybe even a new style. Make sure you can dress sharp for meeting people. Spending money is not the first thing to do when you are out of work; yet, if you can afford just a few new shirts or outfits for meetings and interviews, they are an investment and will pick up your attitude. In addition, any old colleagues or associates you might bump into will see the new energized you. Make a new impression and they will keep you in mind when they hear of an opening. Everyone wants to make a good hire recommendation.

2. Get Your Picture Taken
After your makeover get a great head shot or two of yourself and make sure you are smiling. Get copies and place one where you will see it every day -- such as on your refrigerator.

3. Become Searchable
If you don’t already have a MySpace or Facebook page, or a website, get them. Gear your pages to be professional rather than personal. Spell out your skills and accomplishments. Use that new picture of yourself. Make sure people can leave you messages.

4. Create a Hard Copy Portfolio
This is a one-or two-pager about you similar to a resume though with your picture and a bit more pizzazz. Make 25 copies and place them inside a nice simple folder. Again include a picture of yourself and make sure they contain all of your contact information. Also start working on your resume.

5. Write Some Testimonials about Yourself
Write something about yourself that is a testament to your skills and abilities. These can be one or two sentences each. Make a different testimonial for each of your friends and associates. Customize these so that each of them will be aware of what they are attesting to and have them sign a hard copy.

6. Throw a Party
That’s right. Call all your friends and associates and let them know you are having an “unemployment” party. This does not have to be elaborate.
Be the host of the party with a great attitude. Let everyone know you are job hunting and be clear about what types of work you will accept.
Have your guests sign your personal testimonials. Showing everyone that you are not sitting around sulking; this will impress them and they will want to help you.

7. Start Taking People to Lunch
Look for possible employers. Search the companies within travel distance of your home. Contact a relevant manager or CEO and call them with an offer for lunch. Let them know you would like to do a brief interview for a web article you are writing. Get their contact information and have ten questions prepared about their business. Question could pertain to the current climate in their industry, their growth and hiring status, their long term plans, and how long they have been with the company and their background. Make sure you have included copies of each of your testimonials in your portfolio and hand a portfolio to the person at the end of lunch.
Take notes and write a brief few paragraphs about the interview and post them on your website, MySpace, or Facebook page. Send each person a hand written thank you note with an invitation to visit the page and read the article.

Follow up with an email letting them know that you are seeking employment and ask them to keep their ears open. Say in touch with these people every few weeks with a purposeful email for example to let them know what comments you have received on their interview article.
Getting away from staring at the Internet job sites and out of the house into the business world on a regular basis will keep you from becoming a daytime television junkie. Do as many of these lunches as you can afford. If you cannot afford the lunches, ask for on-site interviews and go to them.

This is a great way to connect and network. You will be learning about your industry and specific companies and you will be making contacts that could last you a lifetime and land you a job.

Roscoe Chambers II is also the President of The Kennedy Group, LLC, an executive search firm that takes a broad approach in the staffing of various industries and disciplines covering levels from middle- to upper- management. Please contact him at Rchambers07@gmail.com

Enterprising Bettie
Staying on the Ride of Life
3 Actions to Overcome Circumstances
By Sidney Gaskins

“The people and circumstance around me do not make me what I am, they reveal who I am” Laura Schlessinger

Circumstances are often thought to be the overwhelming factors in decisions and choices. Maybe this will be good news for some, circumstances are simply “accessory facts or details” that we often give undue credence. In the current “economic” state, we are bombarded with circumstances: unemployment rates, high prices, fear of “x” happening. Right now, there are few conversations for having life be a blessing regardless of the circumstances. Life is just one circumstance after another, each day hands us circumstance after circumstance. How do you manage to live through them and come out as a diamond? In this season of renewal, take these 3 actions to heart and repeat them regularly:

1. Relax
Often when we are in the middle of the storm or circumstance the tension is unbelievable, frustration is high, and it is hard to see our way out. Find a place of quiet, which may mean turning off the television, radio, cell phone, computer, and refusing company to gather your thoughts. Relaxing will allow you to let the racing in your mind to slow down, it will quiet the voices, and release any emotions that have been bottled up. Once you allow yourself to relax you can begin to clearly create a plan of action.

2. ReGroove
ReGrooving is the process of planning to do something that is different from what you have been doing. Here you take stock of your abilities, what talents you possess, all of the resources at your disposal. Yes, it includes finances, people, jobs, etc. The new actions you will take may be radical and unexpected; they will take courage and planning, and will move you to a new level of responsibility, freedom, joy, and peace. This is where you begin to purge the old and produce new blossoms. As a part of this process you will begin to see all you have which will lead you into the last, but most important step.

3. Rejoice
In hard times or in circumstances when you do not see the light at the end of the tunnel, the simple principle of Thanks is necessary. Why rejoice last? To rejoice you have to be able to see what you already have, if you never stop to see it, you will never appreciate it enough to “be gladdened”. The word “rejoice” is a verb, which means it is active, you cannot rejoice passively. Be glad that you have the opportunity to move your life to another level, be glad that you have the people around you, be glad that you have a voice to speak, be glad that you have a mind to create, and you will be amazed at how your circumstances become a stepping stone.

Circumstances are a part of Life, let them be a part of building what you want and allow them to reveal the diamond within.

Copyright © 2006-2009
Enterprising Life, LLC. All rights reserved.
Enterprising Life, LLC. is a professional coaching and consulting entity that helps individuals, families, and businesses create fulfillment in life and the workplace, while achieving prosperity and productivity.
www.EnterprisingLife.com

unstoppablelife@gmail.com

Brown Bettie Beautifully

Our Brown Bettie Keena traveled to President Obama’s Inauguration in Washington, DC and kept a small diary. Here is Day 3 of her travels:

Day 3:
My Godmother dropped us off and we were all bundled up with our coats on top of coats, boots, scarves, and small personal items because you couldn’t bring big items into the ceremony. As we got closer downtown the subway filled up so much that we became real live sardines on the subway car. I mean seriously we were all pushed together in closer proximity than you normally want to be, but again everyone’s spirits were in high excitement and there was no complaining, because what…we were going to the Inauguration! When we finally got to our stop and got off the swarm of people was amazing. As Ajamu pointed out it looked like liquid people. We walked to our section and the line was already ridiculous. We got in the midst of the crowd and people were talking and laughing but were definitely feeling the cold weather. They weren’t opening the doors to the actual lawn of the ceremony till like 8:30am and it was just 6:15am. After what seemed like a long time I realized it was only 7:30am and I was literally freezing. I bought some hand warmers from another woman standing in line and at this point everything was freezing on me and all of these millions of people were not creating any type of body heat whatsoever. I looked at Ajamu and said, I’m not sure if I can make it.” I was completely freezing and I still had another hour to wait and then still had to stand outside for the ceremony for another couple of hours. Now let’s see that equals out to at least another four hours and I honestly didn’t know if I would make it. There was no sun just freezing temperatures. There was the comedy of people trying to cut in line and this white girl beside us trying to start her own rally/protest yelling at them, “Don’t cut the line, don’t cut the line,” repeatedly but she herself was too afraid to go over and say anything. Finally, another woman did and she chanted and cheered for her bravery although she only wanted to chant from the sidelines and watched other people actually say something. Needless to say I stuck it out for hope, for inspiration, for history, and for the love of President Obama. (He owes me one) So they finally let us in and because we didn’t get in line the night before like others we had to stand but fortunately the sun came out and was right over us and I started to warm up some. Well now Ajamu was freezing and getting a little irritable but the lady who sold us the hand warmers gave us some foot warmers for free.

The crowd of people was just more than words and everyone was anticipating this moment. One woman passed out in front of us because she had not eaten and was a diabetic but after almost 10 minutes finally the paramedics came but aside from that there were no real issues. (Oh and they only had 500 port a potties for a million people) Finally, the ceremony began with some music and children’s choir (but it honestly wasn’t that interesting) I think they should have a dj for the ceremony so people can dance and it would have kept us warm. Finally government people began to arrive and once Vice President Dick Cheney, President Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush arrived you heard a thunderous Booooooooo. I was almost embarrassed and felt sad for them but then I realized that is the least they deserve after the state of this country. One man even yelled out, “You ruined our country.” I must agree with him on that one. The ceremony itself happened with not much to do but then President Obama raised his hand and took the oath and people screamed, cheered, cried and rejoiced for the new day that was beginning. In that moment everyone for miles around became one voice, one connected spirit as we all were happy to be there to be able to witness this momentous occasion and we knew that we were a part of something that you could never take away from us. That was it; that was all that was written; Barack Obama was officially the President of the United States of America and people of all colors, ethnic backgrounds, and various religious faiths had troubled far and wide to support and put their faith in this man and what he can do for our country. I was so proud that day to be an American and to be a part of something spectacular.

Keena Ferguson is a Los Angeles-based actor who has also co-produced and written her first short film, KAI. She plays "HATE" in Harlem's Night Cabaret. Learn more at www.keenaferguson.com

Love, Hate, Want, Need
By Bettie Brown

Miss Bettie Brown tells us what she loves, hates, wants or needs.

Like many, I’m a girl that likes to be waaarrrm when she goes to sleep. That means I’m jumping into bed in green and yellow flowered flannel PJ’s, a long-sleeved T-shirt and red wool socks. That’s not sexy, and I know it.

Sure I want to wear lacy thongs and demi-bras and garters and such…but really, sometimes it’s all just too much. I need to be a grown up and just STOP IT with the cotton bras, boy shorts and tank tops, even though they are sooo comfortable. “Comfort” is no longer a viable excuse especially since I don’t have any particular aversion to girly stuff; I love how beautiful lingerie looks on me and rejoice in its residual effects. When I realize this, I hate that I don’t even make an effort to treat myself (and my BF) to something nicer!

It’s time to change.

I love vintage and have one night gown I will start wearing at least once a month. It is a long flowing sheer white gown that belonged to my Grams… As she gave it to me and I held it up to her, I remember saying, “Grandma, it’s so see through!” She said, “Doesn’t matter, you don’t keep it on for long!” (Yippeee!)

Next, I went shopping online at my favorite store, Agent Provocateur. These items are in my virtual shopping basket, to be purchased at a later date:

$160 Love demi bra (Gorgeous!)

$170.00 Grace

Nicola Bra $150 (sweet 'n cute)
$90 Nicola Thong

$180 Faran Bra
$250 Faran Waspie (cool!)
$170 Jacqueline –

(would rock this under a wife-beater or a vintage slip!)

I look forward to having a better lingerie life! Good luck with your own.

In My Solitude

I understand
By Cecilie Davis Carter

In my solitude, I understand that it’s not easy in the world right now. I realize that people are losing their homes. I know that money is tight and every month it’s a mystery how the mortgage will be paid. I get how it would be easy to fall into a sorrow-filled river and wonder when you will set your feet on dry land again. Trust me, I understand. But what I don’t understand is how easy it is for us to focus on what we don’t have versus cultivating what we do. We may not have the same financial security that we had this time last year, but we still have friends and family. We may not be able to take a vacation this year, but we have our health. We may not have the career we want, but Faith is free, and if you don’t have that I suggest you start looking for it ASAP. In my solitude, I remind myself that we must remember that the true feelings of love, joy and happiness come from the inside. Once that’s attained, everything else will follow suit. God will never give us more than we can handle. We will all get through this. Let’s just remember what’s REALLY important. And that is: To Rejoice.

Be well.

The Spotlight



My Life, My Way

by Tanya Alexander-Henderson

My Life pursuits of excellence,
Through challenges of social turbulence

With classic renditions of unbending convictions

Wrought by a pure hero with the noblest of missions.

My Way to eleven rings of glory,

Encircling the legend of those before me

Epitomizes that role so many model after

Agonizing to pioneer a trail they cannot capture.

Of the strong and trustworthy a champion is found.

My Life, My Way, Unbound...

Pieces of Tanya...A Spoken Word Project - Available Now!

"The Mirror/rorriM ehT" Music Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXyScAhAv40
"1 Out of 10" Music Video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLGjn6j6d-0
Download: iTunes - http://www.apple.com/search/ipoditunes/?q=pieces+of+tanya
Hard copy: www.cdbaby.com/cd/tanyaalexander
Website: www.supernovaproductiongroup.com

SuperNova Production Group
It's Time to Shine...

Unzipped

IRI Tax tips to help you get through!

Homeowners Rejoice: Tax Breaks Are Here....
Let's be honest: April 15th is/was a day of reckoning, the moment when we find out what we really owe for taxes. In households nationwide wallets are drained and many who were rich on the 14th are greatly impoverished by the 16th.

But for those with real estate the load is made lighter by tax rules which encourage the ownership of homes and investment property. Such rules are not only good for homeowners, they're also good for the country: About 20 percent of all economic activity nationwide is related to real estate, so policies which encourage real estate activity help everyone.

It seems that almost every year changes to the tax code require the production of new forms and a re-education process. That said, the real estate basics remain in place and they're good news for buyers, sellers, borrowers and owners.

(For more detailed information, visit www.1040.com/iri)

1. Mortgage interest is generally deductible.



2. Substantial profits can be sheltered when a prime residence is sold.



3. Points may be deducible by both buyers and sellers.



4. Home offices may be deductible.
   

• Sources and Publications
  As always with taxes, nothing is ever simple or easy. Speak with a qualified tax professional for specific advice -- an enrolled agent, a CPA or an attorney who specializes in tax issues.
  Also, the IRS itself has excellent information at its website, by phone at 1-800-829-1040 and with specialized publications such as those below:
  Publication 523, Selling Your Home
  Publication 527, Residential Rental Property
  Publication 530, Tax Information for First-Time Homeowners
  Publication 535, Business Expenses
  Publication 587, Business Use of Your Home
  Publication 936, Home Mortgage Interest Deduction
  Publication 946, How To Depreciate Property

The information contained in this site is of a general nature and should not be acted upon in your specific situation without further details and/or professional assistance.If you would like more information on anything in "IRI Tax Tips," or if you'd like to be on our mailing list to receive other tax-cutting information from time to time, please contact our office. We're here to help.

IRI TAX/NOTARY
Bankruptcy
PassPort Photos
320 E. South Street
Long Beach, CA 90805
ALL SERVICES ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
562 422-1603 (ofc)562 422-5010 (fax)
www.1040.com/iri

Year around service (24hr Answering Service during off tax season)
Baadja-Lyne OubaOwner/Operator

Brown Bettie Knows Best
by Peppur Chambers

You, my sister, have seen the lows, you’ve rolled around in the ashes of scorched heartache ready to hang yourself with a wet rope soaked in lonely crocodile tears, and yet no one has applauded you on how well you are doing at doing something wrong. Well, because I’ve been through it too, and because everyone needs a pat on the shoulder, I salute you with these tips that will remind you whole-heartedly that you are doing everything absolutely wrong to find love. I hope these little morsels of loveless encouragement will coax you down from that painful chair of desperation, give you the strength to remove your noose and smile through your snotty haze as you nod and say, “Hey! That’s what I do!”

Ready? Let’s begin. And remember, you are not alone, my dear:

TIP 3:

Call him. A lot.

When he doesn’t call you back, be sure to call him at least twenty times a day. When he does finally answer (they always do, especially if you have annoyed them enough), make sure you are really, really mad.

Bad Boy JOE
Each month we feature a wonderful man who has played the lead role of JOE in our Brown Betties & Joe cabaret.

Rodney Perry, Comedian

("JOE" Feb 08)

"What makes you a Bad Boy?"

Rodney is so baaaad, I'm still waitin' for his answer.

Catch up with him here:

http://www.rodneyperry.com/
www.myspace.com/rodneyperry

Facebook

Harlem’s Love Story…
For your reading enjoyment, find the ninth installment of “Harlem’s Awakening”…This is the “True Hollywood Story” (as it were) behind the love affair between Joe and Harlem that plays out in the cabaret, “Harlem’s Night” performed by the Brown Betties.


Chapter 10 – A Manor of Speaking

Harlem ran up the freshly-swept concrete stairs to her Brownstone. Before she could turn the key, the door flew open and there was little Tilda full of smiles and jumpin’ with excitement.

Tilda was tiny and looked much younger than her eighteen years. Her smooth coconut skin glistened as the sun kissed her forehead. Her fingers moved quickly as she tried to tell Harlem something.

“Slow down!” Harlem signed back to her. Tilda had been deaf since birth, but had just learned sign language only eight months ago when Harlem enrolled her in St. Augustine’s School for the Deaf.

Tilda said, “The new costumes have arrived!” Now it was Harlem’s turn to jump with excitement. She and Tilda had spent weeks designing the beaded bodices of the new corsets that would debut with the new numbers for the Brown Betties’ performances.

That reminded her. She had to come up with a plan, or a really good excuse that would not only explain to Cora how Harlem was the owner of a brownstone that took up half a block and was formerly known as Lady Magdalena’s Manor…and how she and Tilda were the outfit behind the sultry Brown Betties who were quickly becoming the hottest dancers outside The Cotton Club.

She and Tilda headed for the drawing room where she could see the corsets laid upon her long maple table surrounded by several high-backed chairs upholstered in dark purple satin – Harlem’s favorite color. Rich magenta curtains complemented the room in a way that always made Harlem smile. She was about to pour herself and Tilda a brandy and soda when the doorbell rang.

Both women looked at each other with hunched, questioning shoulders as neither of them was expecting a visitor this evening. They both walked to the great oak door; Harlem waited while Tilda swung it open. Both their mouths dropped as they stared into the hazel eyes belonging to Honey. She carried two suitcases, a baby, and announced oddly, “I’m home!”

(c)2007 Pen and Peppur LLC

Momma Said

by Vicki Rogers (My momma)

The coming of Easter this year and the memories it evokes once again takes me into the “Way Back Machine” to a time in Lawrence, Kansas when we lived on Mississippi Street.

Mississippi Street was a tree-lined haven with a brick-paved road; this was typical of many streets in Lawrence. Our house was in the middle of the block, placed at the beginning of a small incline. This house seemed huge to me, during my early years in the 1950’s. It had a front porch that covered the entire length of the house and a smaller one in the back. On the left side of our house was a sidewalk leading to the backyard and a similar house to ours. The backyard consisted of a small concrete pad, the entrance to the basement and a clothes line. Beyond that, there was more yard and the alley dividing the neighbor’s house and ours. On the right side was an empty lot filled with trees between us and those neighbors. It was magical there. It made me feel like anything could happen and all things could be discovered.

It was back here one Easter that magic happened, kind of. Easter was one of the few times during the year when my three sisters and I got something new; usually new dresses and shoes for church and maybe a hat and gloves. One year, I was perhaps four, we got chicks for Easter. This was really new for me, because everything that came into our house before that served a purpose and these definitely, in my mind, did not. They were just small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. There were four, thus avoiding any arguing about sharing. The cool thing was they were pastel. I mean, really who takes the time to color a chick? That was an extravagance in the 1950’s world of Vicki Rogers. These fuzzy little balls were pink, yellow, green and blue. I don’t remember where they came from, probably my Grandma Rogers. She liked chickens, so I’m told. Think about it, who in their right mind (even if it is your favorite grandmother) would give four little girls baby chickens, we were just babies ourselves. Just because we had a big yard didn’t mean we weren’t city girls. What were we supposed to do with chickens? They didn’t come with a coop or food. They just dropped in from heaven - or not. Were we supposed to keep them until we could farm eggs or have four chicken dinners? We didn’t even have a fence, for God‘s sake. My mother certainly didn’t have time to bring up chickens along with us.

I just remember being in the back yard as they were suddenly dropped beside me. Like magic. In their box, each one was chirping and spinning like a little wind up toy. Sometimes when you are little and your focused horizons are hem lines and knee caps, voices simply rustle like the crinoline slips you wear beneath starched cotton skirts…often, just an instrumental background to your own thoughts. So things drop before you like manna, without instructions. I remember petting them and trying to corral them as they bounced around the yard, even while the sunset deepened. In that light, they began to glow like fireflies each, still chirping as we played hide-and-seek in the grass. Momma called us inside. I, the last in the yard, finally stopped chasing them and went inside.

It wasn’t until morning when I woke up that I wondered how those little chicks were doing. I went into the backyard but I didn’t see the colored balls of cotton anywhere. I didn’t hear them cheep-cheep either. I looked under both porches thinking maybe they had slept there and no chicks. I wandered out to the alley, no chicks. I searched in the vacant lot around all of the trees. No chicks. I returned home and questioned my sisters. No one had seen the chickens -- they were just gone*. Strangely, we all didn’t seem too concerned about their disappearance either. I never really got an answer to what happened to the chicks. However, by the time I gave up looking for the chicks, I did remember it was time to feed the cats - Soda Pop, Fluffy and Ink Spot - they kept the mice outside.

Editor's note: While searching for a cute pic of chix, I came across another Easter Chix story.