March 17th, 2022, a touch of green brightens my outfit. I mused lightly on things I am lucky to be a part of joining. As I pondered over memories and choices, I realized it is not luck but the abundance of blessings as I honor my faith journey. Lesson eternally learned: Although the struggle is real. Prayers Delayed, not Denied.
I heard an excellent saying that appeared to root in my heart. “I do not have too many books; I do not have enough shelves.”, the quote reads.
So true, sigh! Each year I attempt to thin out my library to make room for new additions. My mom reminded me that I had a bookcase at her house that I did not clear when I moved to my home with my husband. Setting aside an afternoon in early March last year, I prepared for the sorting.
I chose the Durham Rescue Mission to receive donations to help our community. In this bookcase, many works held sentimental value; donating was not an option. So this task I knew this would be quite a feat. Other books on the shelving were duplicate copies in paperback form, so releasing them to the donate pile was not as agonizing as I imagined. After an intensive hour of separating, I created five deep piles ready for boxing.
Reading is “FUN – TO – MENTAL,” and purging and gifting to others revives the soul.
The Super Bowl LVI brought me joy even though my favorite team was absent. The Los Angeles Rams versus The Cincinnati Bengals revealed girth and heart throughout the game. Peter and I hosted my stepdad, Chris Blue. My mom was out of town, aiding to help her sister in recovery from surgery. Between Chris, my dad, and a few friends, the knowledge and intricacies of the sport keep me riveted to the show of the season.
The table was set with fun game day snacks, and we had a ball playing Monopoly, Durham style. With a decent game, fun commercials, and incredible food and company, the highlight stamped in my mind was the halftime show performances.
The collaboration of Hip Hop Legends taking the stage reenergized my spirit for the next half of the game and my nostalgia. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and Eminem dazzled the field while invoking the joy of great house parties and the incredible music of my young adult life. After the show completed its spectacular celebration, the game and crowd awakened with contagious enthusiasm that compelled me to watch the last two quarters.
The first two quarters felt lackluster to be a super bowl caliber appearance. The players came to play with intention and vigor in the third and fourth quarters. The final score of 23 – 20 sealed the Los Angeles Rams’ fate as the victors.
Always, Keep Pounding, people! My beloved Carolina Panthers have a new level of excellence to strive for this coming season.
I do not consider myself a foodie; however, I love food. Through the years, I have enjoyed many cooking shows, and since being married, my culinary palette has expanded further than I ever thought possible. A favorite personality came to DPAC, and Peter and Carmen had to be there. February 20, 2022, was a clear evening for a fun event.
The date night atmosphere was beautiful, and it was nice that crowds gathered together. The Covid-19 pandemic took a toll on all. While waiting for the show to begin, Peter and I met a lovely couple in the lobby who were Star Trek fans. They noticed Peter’s shirt. I found a cute sundress that would perfectly highlight my new hairdo.
Beyond the Eats was a fantastic show that made me feel we were on Good Eats, the cooking show. From story time to trivia to hot wings, Alton Brown did not disappoint. I adore my long-sleeved shirt commemorating the evening—a perfect way to close out Valentine’s 2022 season.
Beyond The Eats Instagram posting
I took my time to begin writing this tribute for several reasons. Mainly, I wanted to prolong my pouting session if I am honest. I realized moping is counterproductive and not genuinely honoring my dad. Therefore, I opened my notebook and began to express my feelings.
On August 23rd, 2022, my father transitioned from this life into a realm where his ancestors reside. He taught me lessons about people and how to treat myself as I navigate life. He was a man of faith and an excellent dad. The mourning of my father runs deep and truly made a significant impact on me. Remember that mourning does not last, but memories can sustain me through this process. I plan to create a series to pay tribute to him. Thank you for journeying with me into how I celebrate the legacy of Mr. Herman Bullock.
This year was the first year that he was not able to wish me a “Happy Halloween, Thanksgiving, Birthday, Christmas, or New Year”. The blessing that I was privileged to have for 43 years with him comforts me. I stood in front of the church congregation and heavenly hosts to speak about my father as we prepared for his homegoing service. I only remember a basic principle that he taught me when I was young. “Be your best self.” I directed that lesson to my young nieces and nephews who were trying to understand what was happening at the funeral, but I mainly needed to remind myself.
In life, some circumstances are out of your control. However, how you respond is what is within your control. You do not have to be fake or perfect, but simply real and strive to be your best self. When you work to be your best self, you align with your purpose and calling in life. Living and participating in your life experiences is essential to see the true beauty of the world.
The tribute speech concluded with a thank you to the gathered. My dad and I always had fun when we went to church. Whether for a function, service, or funeral, worshiping God was never a problem and gave you the strength to carry forward with your tasks in life. The love and support sent to our family during the sad occasion were overwhelming a deeply appreciated. We returned with my father to his hometown of Ridgeway, NC, and had a final Homecoming service in the guise of a Homegoing service.
I realized the truth. My father was a man of faith and did his best. I am a daughter of faith and will live my truth. Ms. Carmen Bullock married to become Mrs. Carmen Baylies; my sister is seeking her truth and purpose; and my brother is taking care of his family as my dad showed him. We were shown that God is real and the strength of our lives.
Dad, you earned the honor of ancestor and guardian, and I am proud to be your daughter and will always be proud of you.
