Prose...I suppose...

Back on the job grind

2009-12-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

So I finished my MBA in October (Yay me!). I have decided that I want to work in the nonprofit world. I have volunteered with many, but the light bulb to actually work for one for a living just recently went off. More specifically, I want to work in the area of Corporate Social Responsibility. I'm finding that positions in these departments are far and few in between. Go figure that I finally figure out what I want to do in Corporate America and its a thriving practice! I've been doing hella networking and internet scouring for positions. I'm finding this thing to be extremely overwhelming. There is so much information to soak in. Follow these 30 people on twitter; read these 100 white papers; check out all these sites; connect to these people on Linkedin; listen in to upmteen shows on blogtalkradio; follow these blogs...and the list goes on! I'm by no means complaining. If you know me, you know I love to learn new things. Its just one of those things where the more you know, the more you realize you don't know.

But i'm ready for the challenge! I think i've just about followed everyone @RosettaThurman recommended following. I'm done reading my first nonprofit white paper. I'm sifting through my friend's connections on Linkedin. I have a more identifiable twitter handle (@Akuba_T #Followme, #Imjustsayingthough). I'm applying to all the nonprofit staffing companies in the country. I'm reading, i'm connecting, i'm networking, i'm following. Most importantly, i'm taking it one day at a time! Otherwise, I would be a ball of stress.

Tune in next time for the latest on my adventures! Who knows when that will be...lol

Oh yeah, a congratulations to me is due. I now intern/contract as a grant writer for a group home. Its slow and go...tell you more about it later.

XOXO,

Akuba T

Current Happenings

2009-08-19T21:41:00.000-07:00

Well, i'm in the last semester of my MBA. I will be finished in October! I am currently looking for internships that I can do while i'm in school. I found two that interest me. One is a grants management assistant position with the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy and the other is a fundraising intern with the International Rescue Committee. I think both will give me great experience. We will wait and see what happens.

These last two months are bittersweet. I am happy to finally be at the end of this journey, but I can feel the beginnings of anxiety about getting back into job search mode. If anyone knows me, they know how long it took me to find a job I liked (and that liked me) after graduating. I feel like I am preparing myself and I have a killer resume (if I do say so myself), but time will tell if employers feel the same way! lol

That's all for now. Take care and until next time...whatever you are, be the best one.

XOXO,

AYT

Finally Finished

2009-06-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

Early this morninig I finished reading my book: "Start Your Own Grant-writing business" by Preethi Burkholder. This is a great book! Now on to planning. I have a meeting lined up with a friend who owns her own non-profit. She is looking for grants for her organization, so I plan to make this my first project. Updates coming soon!

Updates

2009-04-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

Just a few quick updates. School is going well, i'm maintaining my 4.0 (thanks to all my tutors). I have four more classes left before I am finished! I have decided that I want to pursue grantwriting and non-profit consulting, so i'm squeezing in the time to learn more about this when I can. I'm chaninging the focus of this blog to a more philantropic focus, so bear with me during the transition. Hello to all my friends I haven't seen or spoken to in a while. I pray that everything is well in your lives. Have a wonderful weekend and i'll be back soon!

Hola!

2009-01-21T07:28:00.000-08:00

Wanna know why I haven't written in a month? My Managerial Accounting and Marketing Management classes are kicking my butt! lol. I haven't had time for much else, but i'm taking it one day at a time. I just keep my mind focused on the finish line: May 9, 2009...Graduation Day. I was insprired to write a haiku about my experiences thus far. Here goes:

#1
Classes are boring.
I continue to press on.
Commencement is near.

#2

Study every day.
Failure is not an option.
Get your 'Michelle' on.

Let me know what you think...lol. Back to studying!

Chronicles of my hair

2008-12-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, so...last week I reached out to my new hair dresser to get a wash-and-set only to find out that she no longer worked at that salon. Needles to say, I was devastated. It took alot of self-constraint not to get in her business and ask what happened as i'm sure if she wanted to share that information with me, she would have done so. My cousin twisted my hair for me to get me by for the next week, but this predicament left me wondering what was next for me and my hair.

Last year was very difficult for me b/c I experienced excessive breaking which I attributed to the stress of job searching, then relocating (and all related stress). Its really bothered me that I have not been ablel to find a hair stylist that I am pleased with since college (2005). This year, I've made extreme progress in recovering from the breakage and even gaining length. I'm not usually big on New Year's resolution, but I have decided to make my spirit, body, and hair my personal priority in 2009.

Of course, this will be my sounding board for the progress of said personal priorities. I can't guarantee that all of it will interest you, but hey, this blog is for me so =P. J/K, but I really would like to share these things with you b/c I found myself being so emotionally attached to these things (and more) over the past two years.

So hopefully 2009 will result in a haeltheir spirit, hair, and body...lol

Love you all!

AYT

I'm a writer

2008-12-17T08:56:00.000-08:00

The past couple of weeks have been extremely rewarding. I claimed that I am a writer and editor, posted my services on Craig's list, and watched as the work poured in. Now, I'm not a paid writer or editor yet, but I'm working on that part. LOL. Lets just say I'm paying my dues. So far, I have had six clients! I'm really searching to find the space I want to write in, and steps to take to move forward with this endeavor. I'm truly excited about having some career aspirations and working towards realizing them.

I will keep you posted on my progress, but for now, I need to get back to editing this manuscript ;)

Ciao!

You don't know what it feels like

2008-11-25T08:41:00.000-08:00

You don't know what it feels like. You don't have the history of disappointment, tears, sadness, and embarassment I have had. You can't relate and I don't expect you to; afterall, its my life. It's mine and I have and will deal with it one step at a time. I don't want your rationalizations, longwindedness or critiques, I want your understanding and emphathy. Is my selfishness in this situation such a crime? Can I lay claim to the time I have put into it beyond listening ears? The tears,the fears, the frustrating years? If you've never carried the burden of third party disappointment in the EXACT same way, I don't expect you to be able to relate. Not today.

Charge it to my heart and not to my head. For if it were my head I would think more and feel less. I wouldn't be emotionally wrapped up in this mess. But out of my heart comes the issues of my soul. And out of this situation comes issues of old. I'm tired and I want to give up, but I cant ignore the ties that bind. So my apologies if my approach you don't find/necessarily appealing...revealing who I really am or what I really believe. Its me.

Who knew love would be my greatest mountain?

2008-11-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

When I was a girl, I lived a life overflowing with love: the love of my parents & family, the knowledge of people who loved me many miles away that I had never met, & the love children generally have for things that bring them delight (candy, June bugs, ice cream & cake, jumping in leaves, & slumber parties to name a few).

When I hit puberty, I became strangely aware that other types of love existed. There was romantic love, crazy love, innocent love, jealous love, true love. I saw guys showering girls with flowers, balloons, teddy bears & kisses on that crazy day in February. I saw a boy (yes, a boy) shoot & kill his girlfriend because she no longer wanted to be with him. I saw girls write anonymous notes to boys revealing their innermost thoughts. I attended a 50-year wedding anniversary & a wedding vow renewal. Each of these events was centered on this idea of love that I knew nothing about nor had I experienced for myself. Which of these was the real deal?

I had my first shot at love in high school. I gave freely of my emotions & my time. I was confident & secure & found joy in each moment with my guy. Time decided that we would not fall IN love, but I will always love him for the person & friend he is to me. I did not fail at my first attempt, I just did not win.

Those co-ed years hit me like a ton of bricks. It was a rush of reality & independence all at once. I met a lot of interesting people, but finally decided to give my full attention to one in particular. He was charming to say the least. I was a snake in a basket mesmerized by his sweet nothings & brown eyes. It was great at first, but let’s just say the train derailed & never got back on track. Though the train was chugging through the dirt of the forest & destined to crash, I dared not get off for fear of walking through the wilderness alone. Needless to say, that rationale did not work either. I stayed on that train through physical confrontation, dishonesty, tears, & unfaithfulness. Was this love? After all, he did tell me those three words.

I walked away from this situation. I finally walked away from this situation. Believe me when I tell you I was bruised by this. Not in a physical sense, but emotionally bruised. I was wronged but nor was I a saint. Yeah, I said those three words. Once. In a jealous attempt to have him to myself though I really didn’t want him. This so-called love began innocently & romantically with serenades & good times. This so-called love was disfigured & warped by craziness & jealously. This so-called love was not true. I did not win my second attempt, I just lost.

Fast forward through a few jerks to my third chance at love. It began innocently & romantically; full of joy and refreshing. Unfortunately, these feelings were soon replaced with future fears. Fears that were born through the poisoning of my past experiences. I began fighting hard, getting nowhere fast & pushed deeper into an abyss of insecurity daily. The woman who seemingly had it all had nothing for she had not love. Hell, i'm still fighting. One by one, day by day, I have been climbing and conquering life's mountains. While I was eating that candy, I never could have told you that...when I was running after those June bugs, I never would have guessed that...when I was eating my ice cream & cake, jumping in those autumn leaves, & heading to my next slumber party, who knew? Out of all the mountains I would face in my lifetime, who knew that love would be my greatest mountain?

Just write...dammit!

2008-11-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hello world!

I'm back and I'm better than ever...sike! (how corny) LOL, seriously...In my decision to try my hand at writing as a profession, I figured I should well...write. You have to actually do something to decide if you like or dislike it right? This site once served as the window into my experience abroad (Washington D.C. & Virginia really..but it felt reely reely far), but it will now serve as the place where I write and publish whatever the heck is on my mind at the time. I figure I could use the practice while I wait on customers to roll in. Currently I have a post out on craigslist offering free editing services to any poor unsuspecting soul. I have decided to focus on grant-writing, editing, and transcribing for the time being. Reply to this blog and I will surely get back with you. Right now, I'm trying to figure out what I will call my business. Please reply with any suggestions as well.

XOXO,

AYT

Quarter Life Crisis & the Pursuit of Happiness

2008-10-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hello world. Sorry to disappoint those who were actually keeping up with me via this blog. I have been busy with school, family, work/business, and personal relationships. In the midst of all that, I have neglected friendships, relationships, God and myself. I got everything I prayed for in ’05,’06 and ’07, but I still feel a void. This just lets me know that I wasn’t whishing, hoping, and praying for the right things.

The year is almost over and I’m ashamed to say that I’m still not 100% at peace with most of the events that occurred this year. I live in constant fear and it’s beginning to wear on me emotionally. I’ve been told that I’m not a very optimistic person and I must say it stung a little. What happened to the Akuba I used to know? The one who wrote poetry, caught June bugs, followed the underground hip hop scene in Athens, Ga., Miss Nonchalant, the aspiring fashion designer foreign diplomat and event planner?

I let the day-to-day wear me down, but I’m determined not to stay down. It’s not in my nature. Sure, I’ve had peaks: the birth of my God daughter, the rush of moving to an unknown place and holding my own, special moments shared with people I love, feeling a sense of accomplishment, reconnecting with old friends, starting a business…and many more…now I’m in search of wisdom and truth.

I am about to embark on yet another endeavor in 2009 that will put a lot of things behind me and prepare me for what’s ahead and I’m nervously looking forward to it. More to come on these changes soon!

Diligently seeking HIM…

AYT

My bad...

2008-08-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

My goodness it has been a while. I've moved back to Atlanta. Im 25 now. I've laughed, cried, and prayed. I start grad school (again) August 27th...online this time. Im not really comfortable with where a majority of the aspects of my life are right now, but im banking on the words of my cousin that 'things just seemed to fall into place at 25.' I have a growing relationship with God. I have felt wronged, been double crossed twice, and had my kindness mistaken for something other than kindness twice. I have moved four times in the last twelve months. I have disappointed people and been disappointed by people. I have fallen in love and im walking in love, learning in love, crying in love, laughing in love...its crazy, but it fules the soul people. Try it. Im waaay more emotional than I used to be as recent as college. No more nonchalant me. I have parasailed, snorkled, and bought my first piece of art all in the same week. I'm on my grown woman.

I've learned to appreciate the fullness and rawness of living a full life, full of love, hurt, pain, joy and everything else. I welcome it all because I yearn to experience life in its rawest form...I cant really explain it. Im trying to find a hustle ya'll, so if a hustle knocks on your door, do me a favor and give it my cell phone number.

I've met some of the most amazing people and feel blessed to have crossed paths with each of them. I've read some really good books and ate some really good food. I have gained a few pounds and slowed down tremendously on my work outs.

But you know what? This is me right now and i'm learning to be ok with that so long as i'm constantly in motion headed upwards towards the next goal in life.

XOXO,

AYT...aka PYT...lol

U-P-D-A-T-E-S

2008-04-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it's been almost a month since I last blogged. So much has happened. I just came back from a two week trip to Ghana. It was a very emotional and bittersweet trip. I was able to see my Grandmother (and namesake, and lovely lady in the picture), I visited Cape Coast (google it), I partied in Accra (the capital), and even got into a confrontation with the son of a family friend. Overall, Im glad I went, but im also glad to be back state-side.

In other news...I FINALLY GOT MY TRANSFER AND I WILL BE GOING BACK TO ATLANTA AT THE END OF THE MONTH!!! God is good, prayer changes things, and EVERYONE needs a 'Prayer Possee.' Thats the circle of ride-or-die friends, family and loved ones that you have that love you and pray for your well-being and happiness. I have been waiting for this for so long that its surreal, but i'll start packing anyway ;)

Im excited and nervous all at the same time. I want to go home, but realistically, time didnt stop while I was gone and I know Im not coming back to the same place. Familiar, yet changed. Its home though, so I will take it. F.I.L.A. = Forever I Love Atlanta...so true =) And forever I love my support group...even the ones who are only around in spirit to share my joy.

Im a ball of emotions!

XOXOXOXO,

AYT

I Hope You Dance...

2008-03-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Akuba,

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder,You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger,May you never take one single breath for granted,GOD forbid love ever leave you empty handed,I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens,Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance,And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

I hope you dance....I hope you dance.

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,Never settle for the path of least resistanceLivin' might mean takin' chances but they're worth takin',Lovin' might be a mistake but it's worth makin',Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter,When you come close to sellin' out reconsider,Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance,And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

I hope you dance....I hope you dance.

(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along,Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone.)

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens,Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance, And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

Dance....I hope you dance.

I hope you dance....I hope you dance.

I hope you dance....I hope you dance..

(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone)

Lee Ann Womack

Rascal Flatts

2008-03-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

"I hope you never look back but you never forget the ones who loved you and the place you left, I hope you always forgive and you never regret and you help someone every chance you get, I hope you find God's grace in every mistake, and you always give more than you take."

My 30 in 30

2008-03-05T21:41:00.000-08:00

Some years ago, I was inspired by a friend of mine to make a list of goals to attain by a certain age. I put my own spin to it and voila! "My 30 in 30" was born. Guess we have 9 more years to see whether I accomplish everything on my list ;)

1. Establish a relationship with God
2. Fall in L.O.V.E.
3. Visit 6 out f 7 continents
4. Jet ski in the carribbean
5. Speak 3 languages
6. Own a home (check)
7. Be debt free
8. Have my first child
9. Be in a happy, committed, monogamus marriage
10. Be financially independent
11. Have a 'mean shoe game'
12. Whiten my teeth
13. Obtain my Ph.D or Masters
14. Eat a real philly cheese steak sandwich
15. Stand in a waterfall
16. Snorkle in the Barrier Reef
17. Meet Oprah Winfrey
18. Swim with a dolphin
19. Skinny dip
20. Visit the Oprah Winfrey show
21. Go n a safari
22. Visit Disney Land
23. Own at least two businesses
24. Parasail
25. Plant a tree
26. Net worth $1 million
27. Take care of my parents financially
28. Be happy
29. Read the entire bible
30. Discover my purpose in life

XOXO,

AYT

Women for Hire

2008-02-28T13:17:00.000-08:00

Not many people know this about me, but I landed the position im currently working in to Women for Hire. Women for Hire is a national resource for job-seeking women. Every year, they host career expos in major cities. At the career expo I attended, I was fortunate enough to make some connections which eventually landed me what I would say is my very first career. Recently, I joined my company's Women's networking group and the opportunity to volunteer at the Women for Hire expo was offered to anyone who was interested. Of course I was more than willing to help out.

For a while, I had been toying with the idea of making a testimonial video to send in thanking W.F.H. for providing me with the opportunity to showcase my skills, but just never got around to doing it. When I volunteered to help out at the career expo, I sent in a written testimonial of my job search and thanked them for their help in that process. Well, soon after, I received an email back from the CEO of W.F.H. herself, Ms. Tory Johnson! She asked if they could publish my story on their website (www.womenforhire.com/career_expo), publish it in their spring magazine, and if I could speak at her early morning seminar. I was more than happy to help out in any way possible.

Well, today was the actual day of the career expo. I had butterflies in my stomach about speaking in front of a large group, but I just kept telling myself to just 'tell my story.' You see, I had two reasons for sharing my story: For one, I just wanted other women to know that despite how they feel, they are not going through feelings of frustration and hopelessness alone. The second reason was really to send a heartfelt thank you to the people who helped me attain a goal that was two years in the making.

It really touched me when I spoke to young women who felt as though I was speaking directly to them and their situation or that my story had inspired them and they now realize that many people go through the same trials and tribulations in their job search. I had the opportunity to meet women from all types of academic and cultural backgrounds which was the most fascinating.

Most of those women just want that one chance to show others what she can do. Although Im no recruiter and was moreso there to answer questions about my company, I hope that every woman I spoke with today walked away with a sence of satisfaction that they just might get that chance, and renewed hope as they continue on in their job search.

XOXO,

AYT

She aint Rusty...

2008-02-10T12:58:00.001-08:00

Hello lovely people. I am about to do something never before done by myself: publish one of my poems. It feels very vulnerable for people to read and know your innermost thoughts, but then again its just as theraputic. Anyway, I used to write a few years ago, then stopped. I dont really know why, but in my stay in DC/Va, Im trying to get back into it. Love.

Bringing the passion back, back from time, back to life, and back to my LIFE.
Life was easier when I put pen to PAPER.
Paper grew dimensions when I epressed mySELF.
Self-examination grew to self-APPRECIATION.
Appreciation of the things that mattered to me most were LOST.
Lost passions lead to lost FEELINGS.
Feelings grew NUMB.
Numb to repeat past MISTAKES.
Mistakes I wont make AGAIN.
Again, I digress to those co-ed YEARS.
Years I wont get back, so why not do like the Robinsons and 'Keep moving FORWARD"?
Forward I must go and upward I must GROW.
Grow into the rose Iknow I can BE.
Be on POINT.
Point to what I want and go after IT.
It seems as though im getting my mo-jo BACK.
Back from those co-ed years.
Again I digress, yet set to be the best, take no mess, reduce stress, fear life and loving less.
I will not rest til I have taken back whats mine: The freedom to trust, love, and grow.
In the words of Ms. Stone...bruised but not broken, my heart is still open.
Back to doing ME.
She aint rusty!

XOXO,

AYT

The landlady from hell

2008-02-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok, I have a really really good excuse for not writing to you since early January. I was doing the whole find-a-place-to-live-then-move-in thing. Since I wasnt going to move in with my cousin, I found a townhouse with a room for rent in Virgina for $350 including utilities WITH month-to-month rent! Doesnt get any better than that right? Thats what I said and I jumped on that opportunity.

As it turns out, the plans that the family member I was supposed to move in with fell through and they asked me if we could get the basement apartment in the same house instead. I asked the land lady and she said that would be fine. So everything was set....move in date was Jan. 26th, U-haul was rented, clothes packed just waiting for the big day. Now I asked the landlady if the furniture that was in the basement could be removed before we moved in and she said she would have that done. The day before we were supposed to move in, she told me that she was unable to remove the furniture. In the same conversation, she brought up the prorated amount of rent for the five days we moved in prior to the first. I thought it was odd because my lease started on the 26th. I paid no never mind to that and offered to bring her the furniture in exchange for the $125 we would have paid for the 26th-31st. When we were finished unloading the truck, I called the land lady to get her address but she didn't answer the phone. I left two messages and started back calling her the following morning at 8am because the truck had to be back by 10a.m. She ended up calling me back as I was approaching U-haul.

Long story short, we agreed that I would extend the truck rental for one day and bring her the bed that day. Once we got off the phone, I realized that I had no one to help me with the bed like I did yesterday. There was a lady who worked at U-haul who was interested in the bed, so I called the landlady back to see if she were willing to give the bed to the lady since at one point she told me to just throw it away. She said it was a really nice bed and she wanted some money for it, so I told her to name her price. She said $50 and thats what I told the lady. She decided she didnt want to pay $50 for a bed that was about to be thrown out. To be honest with you, I didnt blame her. So there we were at a stand still because she wanted the bed, but neither one of us had the resources to get it off the truck. My aunt stepped in and called her to reason with her while I was trying to come up with a solution at U-haul.

Next thing I know, she calls me back yelling and talking over me and told me that I wasnt doing what we agreed on and since we (me, my aunt, and uncle) wanted to be vindictive, then I could just bring the bed back and pay the $125 and hung up on me! She would not answer my calls after that either. (Who was really being vindictive?) So later that day, I ended up calling her again to see if we could just back out of the lease and go our separate ways because I didnt feel comfortable at that point. She said that she didnt feel comfortable either, but she wouldnt be able to find a tenant on such short notice. I understood that and as a result, I gave her a verbal 30 day notice, told her I would pay her the $700 rent for feb. plus the $125 prorated amount and that I was bringing the bed back and I would put it in her back yard. I also told her that she should have been talking in a more respectable tone earlier today. She asked me what was she going to do with the bed, but as far as I was concerned, that was no longer my problem since she would now be able to afford the $50 Home Owners Association fine with the extra $125 she was getting from me. Its a cute, clean place and my roomies are great, but I refuse to give that lady another cent of my money.

So thats it folks! I am moving AGAIN at the end of Februrary. I already told myself in '07 that I would have to get used to traveling and moving in 2008 because I would be doing a lot of that this year. So its back to the drawing board for me.

Told you I was going to have some adventures! lol

XOXO,

AYT

Doing great, and doing good

2008-01-21T19:14:00.000-08:00

I must say, I am very pleased and impressed with the way my company observed King day. It started out with a community-wide (everyone from the Reston, Va. office) meeting in Downtown D.C. They served us breakfast and gave us nice long-sleeved t-shirts with King's image on the back. Then we had 2 speeches and a couple of presentations on topics ranging from going green to one man's personal account of his involvement in the civil rights movement from a white man's perspective.

After about 3 hours we broke out into our pre-assigned groups to perform community service in the D.C./Maryland/Va. area. My volunteer project was at a homeless shelter in D.C. We sanitized the entire building (which was enormous) and painted the walls.

As my group was walking to the shelter, we were accosted by a man on a bull horn spitting religious prose to use. In so many words he told us that we think we are doing something great because we are out here on MLK day donating a few hours of our time. I was thinking to myself: He doesn't know me! Its in my blood...lol

The one thing that will always stand out in my mind is what I saw as I was cleaning one of the sleeping quarters. On one individual's bed, I saw three books. One was the bible, and the other two I cant recall the titles. The titles arent important. What stood out was that person's continued desire for knowledge despite their current situation. That just further solidified my regard for reading and education. They cant take that from you people! Read On!

(Coming to a neighborhood near you once I transfer back to Georgia)

Reading is fundamental and FOR THE MENTALS

I digress...

Overall, I really enjoyed the day and if the powers that be in my company dont give a darn about MLK, I really couldnt tell.

Was MLK day a day off or a day on for you?

XOXO,

AYT

Acknowledge your fear and do it anyway!

2008-01-09T09:42:00.000-08:00

I think that the question mark is the best way to describe how I have been feeling for at least the past week or so. To update you on things: Merry Christmas, Happy New Year! 2008 Started out with me having to make some major decisions. The family member I was supposed to get an apartment with ran into some financial troubles rendering them unable to committ to a lease. I also discovered that the family members that I live with now pushed their move-out date up by a week giving me a little over three weeks to find a place (reasonably priced) on my own.
I will admit, the idea of being on my own in an unfamiliar place caused some anxiety. Its one thing to leave the nest when you're in familiar territory, but im doing this sans familiarity and a tangible support group. After much deliberation, I decided that this was the best opportunity to live out the title of this blog. Acknowledge my fear and do it anyway. You see, I realized that its now or never and if I can make it here, I can make it anywhere.
I supposed I became used to the comfort of knowing there will be food in the fridge and a pillow to lay on whether I decided to be financial responsible that month or not. Dont get me wrong, I feel utterly blessed that my parents, aunts, and uncles allowed me to build a solid enough foundation to stand on my own two feet. Its just that time for me to prove that I have stored all their lessons and advice and will use it wisely.

How do I feel now? Im excited to finally be on my own, making my own money and completely responsible for my own well-being. I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T do you know what that means? (lol). I know that if im alright here in this shit-pit known as the D.M.V, I know I can make it in the A. On another note, I just learned wednesday that I will be in Va. until the end of March with no solid date of return. One of the problems is that there are few jobs in my company's pipeline in Atlanta. So even if I had a solid return date, there is still no work for me down there.

I just want to get back to the life I know. I feel that when I talk to people up here about Atlanta, im so focused on my return that I sound closed-minded about life up here. Its just that I had a life down there that I dropped it in the middle of everything and came up here.
On another note, I was walking around Downtown today and saw a girl who looked familiar. She looked like a girl I remember seeing around campus during college. Sure enough, she attended my alma mater! I just dont forget a face! We exchanged email addresses, but she will be pretty busy until April b/c she is studying for the MCAT...ah well...
Stay tuned for more updates. Oh yeah, for more "pieces" of my life, check out: http://pieces.themakingsofus.com...Holla!

XOXO,

AYT

You can find me in the A! (Im on it)

2007-12-18T14:51:00.001-08:00

Atlanta, here I come!!!!!!!!!!!

The miracle of life

2007-12-07T10:47:00.000-08:00

Alysia, one of my best friends of 11 years just gave birth today to a healthy baby girl. Welcome to the world Amira Charles!

The miracle of birth to me is just one of the many indications that there is a Creator. The time, developmental stages, the end result of two human beings copulating is no accident.

To some the idea of "God" is hard to rationalize. To me, its harder to rationalize that the sweet flavor, succulent juice, and savory aroma of a strawberry (let alone the birth of a child) is the result of a "big bang."

Life events such as these really put things into perspective no matter how much disarray surrounds you. It amplifies the joys of life and brings irrelevance to the negatives.

Births as with deaths are staunch reminders to me that my days are numbered and to make everyone of them count.

So welcome to the world baby girl, and thank you for putting life in perspective for me. I loved you before you took your first breath of air...

All I want for Christmas is...

2007-11-23T10:48:00.000-08:00

Howdy!

For those of you that have been living in a cave, Thanksgiving was yesterday. In light of the holiday, im starting a new tradition this year. Since retailers put out all the Christmas stuff right after Thanksgiving, I figured I would put my Christmas list out right after Thanksgiving as well. Feel free to buy any, all or none of what you see on this list. (I know you think im crazy, but its worth a shot right ? I think so)

1. A white West Highland Terrier (A little white dog)
2. A black 2008 Lexus IS250 (A black car)
3. World peace (Quit killing each other! Dayum)
4. "Ambitchous" by Debra Condren (A book)
5. My teeth whitened (pearly whites)
6. The second season of Desperate Housewives on DVD (no smart comment to put here)
7. Perfume (from B, Paris, Mariah or Diddy to name a few)
8. A pair of "Latchh" boots by Steve Madden in Cognac
9. Bluetooth ear piece 1
0. Laptop tote from Tarjay (Target) in brown or red leather
11. Anything from the heart

...feel free to send me your Christmas list as well! Smooches!

XOXO,

AYT

Im back!

2007-11-13T07:05:00.000-08:00

Its been a while…I blame it on sheer laziness. Nothing more, nothing less. Well let me get you caught up to speed. I have been on my current engagement almost two weeks. Fortunately, my daily commute to the client site is only 20 minutes on a bad day. So for that, Im greatful.

I have a few trips lined up before the close of 2007: Atlanta (of course), New Orleans, and N. Carolina. Its killing your girl’s pockets! Its all good though, such a small price to pay to spend time with my loved ones.

Im really exicted about the progress of the non-profit I work with (http://www.kopeinc.org/). We have some new members and they all bring their own flair and talents to the table. Welcome to K.O.P.E.!!!

Last week I started a Hip Hop class! I miss performing and learning routines PLUS I need to exercise more, so this was right up my alley. Watch out for me in the next Ciara video =) I am trying to figure out other ways I want to ‘get involved’ during my stay here in D.C. Those of you who know me, know things aren’t right if I don’t have a million things to do at once.

Things have been really slow motion in the social department. But that’s changing slowly but surely. I’ve been meeting some pretty cool cats on this work assignment. The hip hop class is taught by a co-worker and I take the class with another co-worker.

It took over a month, but I can officially admit that I am H-O-M-E-S-I-C-K!!! It happened after I missed my flight to Atlanta. I wouldn’t have missed the fight home had I been home already. Its all good…im coping as well as possible. Please believe that EVERYONE who can make it happen knows that my first priority is coming home. On the same note, I am trying to balance myself and not have tunnel vision. I definitely need to enjoy myself while I’m here.

Well, let me get back to work…lol

TTYL

…XOXO,

AYT

Bye St. Charles

2007-10-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

My time at St. Charles has come to an end. It was nice revisiting college one more time. I will say that by the second week I wasnt so outgoing, but overall I still enjoyed myself. This has definitely been the most networking that I have done in my entire life.

Last weekend I had the chance to visit Chicago. Myself and my Atlanta start group stayed at one of their sister's house in Lincoln Park. Beautiful place. I did the touristy thing and hopped on one of those tour busses and rode through the city for 2 hours. That one city has sooo much history. The highlight of my tour was seeing my homegirl, Ms. Oprah Winfrey's residence. After that, I could have ended the tour right there.

I had a deep dish pizza...Fab-u-lous! Definitely got ,my cheese fix from that one.

So now im getting preared for the real world. I have already been staffed on an assignment. Yay me!

Core Analyst School was great. Did I meet tons of new people? Yes! Did I pig out and gain probably 5 lbs.? Yes! Will I take those experiences and memories with me forever and ever? Yes! Would I do it again? Probably not...lol

Peace!

XOXO,

AYT

Core Analyzing

2007-10-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

So today is actually day 2 of training. I was too wrapped up in yesterday's festivities to share with the rest of the world. Shame on me again! For me, yesterday was a cornucopia of cultures and cuizine. I met people from Sao Palo, Portugal, Australia, S. Africa, Milan, Caracas, Holland, Chicago,England, Ireland...literally every corner of the globe! The language barriers both frustrated and facinated me. I learned so many interesting cultural differences, similarities, and misunderstandings for a years worth of conversation and debate. I was really in my element.

They divided us into teams of 5 or 6 the people in my group were from the Melbourne, San Francisco, Paris, and Madrid office. Needless to say there were language barriers, but we rocked it anyway winning 1st place in a brick-holding competition (see above for winning design, kudos to our French engineer for the design...man do they know how to build!). My goal is to meet everyone in this session of CAS. Can I meet my goal? I will let you know by the end.

Ive committed to exercising everyday to offset all this free food they are stuffing down our throats. My Brazilian collegue thought otherwise...to him we didnt have a "decent rice" or any beans worth his time...lol. None of the Eurpeaners can understand why and how we eat so much here...hey neither can I!

Day 2 was very different from yesterday. Our activities were more involved. Very insightful activities. Im sure it will be applicable to my duties...whatever they will be...

I've gone on long enough...there will be more to talk about very soon...

You know, despite all the differences we discovered in each other today and yesterday, what was the one thing the majority of us had in common? FACEBOOK!! Absolutely amazing...freaking genuises...Im speechless...

XOXO,

AYT

Chi-Boogie

2007-10-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

I left the D dot today for 2 more weeks of training in Chicago. They are really investing in your girl! From the travel accomodations, to the 1hr limo ride, to the huge campus in the "Middile of Nowhere", Illinois. (45 mins outside of Chicago to be exact). I guess youre like "Duh, thats Corporate America for you. Where have you been?" Cut me some slack, im new to the game.

Within 15 minutes, I met a girl from France by way of Ivory Coast and a group who came all the way from Italy for the training. If you know anything about me, you know im other-worldly and just love learning about new cultures and meeting people from all over the world.

I met up with my start group out of Atlanta and we all ate in the dining facilities...reminded me of life back in Snelling dinning hall (good times). Im going to try and excercise self control and not gain the dreaded 5lbs but its definintely going to be hard.

On the plane ride over, I had to sit by an older gentleman who was aksing about the Bear's score every 10 minutes. He admonished me for having attended the UofGa and not being a sports fan. Shame on me! Ah well...lol.

Yesterday I went to a party given by a co-worker of mine with my cousin. I was definitely out of my element, but I managed to have a very good time. Who says you cant have fun outside your box?

Im away from everything I know, but I can actually feel myself growing as a person. Insane! I really hope everyone takes notice to the improved me. I've even found my inner photographer with the new digi-cam.

Well, goodnight all. I need to be rested for "Day 1."

XOXO,

AYT

Whew!!!

2007-10-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well my first two weeks of training are finally over. Good thing because I was tired of feeling slow. Its called SDF training and it was an introduction to computer programming. Everyone else had Java/C++ experience and the like, while your girl only has VCR+ programming experience...lol

Now im getting ready for two more weeks of training in Chicago (Burrr!!!)

I really cant say that im homesick just yet, although it has been hard not having any friends I can just call on and hang out with....I've been cooped up in a room with 6 other people and havent had a chance to meet any new co-workers yet. Im sure all of that will come in due time. Until then, its just slow motion for me.

I did have the chance to go out last weekend to this reggae club called CrossRoads with my cousin and her friends. I had one helluva time! It wasnt too hot, crowded, or filled with smoke. But I always enjoy myself at the Carribbean parties/clubs. They know how to have a good time. And big up to the ppl who were teaching me all the dances. I swear they have a dance for every song! lol

I hate im going to miss Howard homecoming because I will be in Chicago, but im sure I will have plenty of stories to tell from that experience. Get ready for those stories!

I hope all my peeps (where ever you are) are doing well. Love Ya!

XOXO,

AYT

Everyday is a new adventure...

2007-10-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

When I say everyday has been an adventure for me, I am not exaggerating! From never coming back from work the same way to driving 30 minutes to the nearest Wal-Mart, I have done it all. Today tops the cake. After staying late at work to finish up some online testing, I discover that my tire is flat. Do I A. Call and wait for road side assistance? (keeping in mind how long they take and that its already 7p), B. Fill it up with air and pray I can make it home? or 3. Find the nearest tire place, get the tire fixed and not risk another flat on the 1hr trek?

I decided to go with a mixture of B. & 3. Fortunately for me, there was a tire shop right across the hwy. from where I work. I missed America's Nest Top Model, but I got my tire fixed for the low low. Yeah, as it turns out, the guy who fixed my tire is part Liberian and part Ghanian and his co-worker is Ghanian! I found some homeboys in Reston...lol. They told me for future hookups always come on Thursdays. Please believe I will!

I made it home in time enough for nothing! ANTM was off, but ah well..all is well that ends well.

Stay tuned to find out about my next adventure! Will it be conversations with one of D.C.'s many crackheads? Or will I finally learn how to get somewhere without getting lost first? Who Knows...ttyl =)

XOXO,

AYT

Day One

2007-09-24T18:56:00.000-07:00

My very first day in corporate America!

Reputable company? Check!
Swanky building? Check!
Nervous? Check!

My first day on the job was a mixture of excitement, nervousness, frustration (why the heck did it take so long to happen?), and anticipation on whats to come.

My "start group" was a mixture of older and younger. Some coming back to the company after some years away and some just graduating college. Me? I fit somewhere in between those two extremes.

Day one was filled with lots of first day what nots - introductions, core values, history, benefits, etc. They fed us breakfast and lunch (yummy!). We recieved our laptops today and we toured the facility. I ran into two UGAers one was facilitating the orientation, and the other was in my start group. I was starting to believe they lied to me in college with the old "youre going to run into tons of UGA grads throughout your career." Two and counting...lol.

I look forward to whats ahead and I will keep you posted every step of the way.

Goodnight all!

A.Y.T.

Adios BOA!

2007-09-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

September 11th, 2007...Ironically, the day I have been waiting for since 1/3/06...my last day working for Bank of America. Wish I could say I was sad, wish I could say I shed a tear, wish I could say that I will look back nostalgically...

But I wont. No looking back, only forward. No regrets, only new expectations and goals.

On a day to day basis, life as a teller wasnt challenging at all. At times I found myself doing multiple activities at once to prevent myself from going completely crazy. Nevertheless, I learned so much about people (heck, I came across 250-300 almost daily!). I learned that everything isnt always as it appears and what may be true on the surface may not be the truth to the core. I learned that everyone who wants to be your friend doesnt necessarily want to be your friend. I learned that a little hug goes a long way. I learned patience and humbleness. And the most important lesson that I ever learned in the year, 8 mo., 8 days, 1 hour and 33 minutes I was there was taught in the bathroom at Bank of America. I learned to let go. For the very first time, I completely, absolutely and wholeheartedly let go of all my worries and let God handle it. At that moment I felt more in control than I ever had.

So you see, while im happy to finally be out of that dead-end situation, I appreciate each and every lesson learned and each and every person who taught me the lesson. So to all my readers, if you're holding on to something you just cant solve, let it go. Give it to someone who is more equipped with handling your situation...you know who i'm talking about!

Adios BOA, its been real...now gimme my last check!

XOXO,

Akuba

And the countdown begins!

2007-09-05T21:49:00.000-07:00

Chances are if you're reading this, you already know me. With that being said, I will skip right to the good stuff. As you all know (or now know) I was offered a position with a reputable consulting firm in Virginia. I was supposed to begin Oct. 8th, but found out today that has been moved up to Sept. 24th leaving me with 11 days to pack up and tie up any loose ends before leaving. Its been a long time coming and while this is everything i've hoped for for the past two years, its not without its sacrifices. In order to make this move, I have to leave my family here when they need me the most, leave my one-man cheer leader/friend/lover/supporter here in the A, press the pause button on obtaining my Masters, leave my organization (www.kopeinc.org) without a PR rep, among a host of other things (friends, extended family, etc.). Honestly, its really bittersweet. I welcome the challenge, the change of pace, the salary, etc., yet I leave so much behind. To my support group and prayer posse (you know who you are) thank you and I love you.

Who knows what the future will hold. Sometimes you have to step out on faith...i'm stepping out! On the other hand, I will be in a new city with untapped malls and a boat load of tourism to perform. This will be my very own "Sex in the City" (w/o the sex of course...well unless you-know-who-comes to visit...lol).

This blog will be your opportunity to follow me as I grow professionally, personally, and spiritually. Feel free to engage yourself, give advice, or even criticism...I can take it. Watch out! When D.C. meets Riverdale, heaven only knows what will happen! Pray for your girl!

XOXO,

Akuba