Nostalgia? Yes, Please, and Thank You!

To begin, I was born in the late 70s, and my formative years were crafted from the excitement and joy of the 80s and launched me into the 90s and 00s with curiosity and an understanding to appreciate your presence. My husband and I grew up in the same timeframe and commemorated similar things, but for different reasons. We enjoy finding similarities and nuances that shape our outlook and grow closer. As we dive deeper into a marital relationship, finding activities to spark conversation and memories is a highlight. In March, we took our date nights/days to the NC Symphony, the Museum of Art, the Planetarium, the city of Old Salem, and a new location, the Lands Between.

The goal of this post is to show a snapshot of nostalgia. I intend to give further insight into the experiences at a later date. 

I have discussed the music of the 80s in other blogs and will bring it up many more times. Buckle up! All kidding aside, a few groups hold unique places in Peter, and I’s a collective being. Genesis is one such band. The two of us secured tickets to Phil Collins’s “Last Domino” tour, which was fantastic. Check out this blog link (Last Domino) for a refreshed look.

We discovered that the NC Symphony chose Phil Collins and Genesis to honor as part of their tribute series, and yes, Peter and I attended proudly. The night was beautiful and exciting. 

NC Symphony

Tribute Program
Setlist
Seated and Ready!

Art of Bloom 2023

The Museum of Art brought The Art of Bloom to life again. To see the art piece reinterpreted through a floral arrangement spoke to my soul. To see the last time we experienced this exhibit, check this blog. 

2021 Art of Bloom

This year’s exhibit brought a wonderful delight to see the fantastic local artist shine from inspiration!

Look, Ma! We’re on tv!
The Matrix has you.
Reflective Labyrinth!
Ah, Venice!

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

“Would you like to swing on a star?” plays lightly as I recall our trip to the Planetarium. While enjoying a beautiful Sunday afternoon, Peter and I met with his mom and her companion to embrace the stars. Afterward, we conversed and walked around the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, then finally, a quiet bit to eat. I truly love how we date.

Sunday afternoon together

Old Salem, North Carolina

The city of Old Salem and the alluring aroma of bread from a 4th-grade field trip beckoned me to return. Peter and I took a day’s drive to the town and enjoyed the bakery’s sights and smells and the old-world scene! To see the city with adult eyes brought me such joy!

Lunch in Old Salem
Old Salem Treats
OOOh! I wish I were an…

Pi Day

While in grade school, I gravitated toward the beauty of mathematics and sciences. On March 14th, we donned our attire to celebrate the mathematical function and a delicious slice of pie!


Elden Ring

After a year of dedicated video gaming research, I claimed an achievement as I completed the Journey 1 of the Elden Ring. My captivation for this video game extends to my bookshelf and wall decor. After purchasing a strategy guidebook, I found a bonus item that thrilled me. The publisher included a map of the world which I framed and placed next to an academic marker on our walls – a friendly reminder of what I can accomplish. The nostalgic feel and date night relevance ties peters love of computers, my imagination to explore the depths of a world in video game form, and the ability to share in each other’s failures and triumphs as we advanced in the game. Being a Tarnished explorer bares an honor; I did not expect.


Ladies, Take Your Bow!

Women hold power and sway over many aspects of life. Taking a moment to appreciate friends and family that illuminate the power of the Goddess power within remains imperative as we as a society grow and define ourselves. The images here only show a small fraction of the beautiful women that inspire me daily.

Thank you, Ladies.

Dani, my friend, and sister.
Angela, poet, friend, and sister
Valerie, Stepmom
Bullock Family Ladies
Baylies Family Ladies
Ms. Bryant, Brilliant Chef
Candace, friend, and sister
Falcon Friends – 1
Falcon Friends 2
Falcon Friends – 3
Jonquel, Artist
Nitemare_on2, DJ, friend, and sister
Beth, friend, and sister
Shaffner, Neuhaus, and Bull Ladies and Gents!
Bernita, Choir Directress, friend, and sister
Bullock, Chandler, Downey Ladies!

Tribute to Mr. Herman Bullock

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.

Dad and Baby Carmen posing for Christmas

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.

Young adult Herman is about to head out.
Carmen was surprised by Dad showing up to her Gospel Choir performance at Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.
Father’s Day with the Girls at Bahama Breeze.
The dads stood as bookends as Peter and Carmen wed, and Johnea stood as the beautiful Maid of Honor. Photo Credit: Ariel Perry.
And Time to walk, so the wedding can start. Photo Credit: Ariel Perry.
Dad’s best impression of the secret service as Carmen and Johnea have a few sisterly moments. Photo Credit: Ariel Perry