I’ve been out of touch for a while – in this ‘while’ so many things have happened to me.  In the moment when these ‘so many things’ were happening in my life I wanted to write – I mean that is what the Diary is for right?  However rather than write I thought I’d give my power to getting through things rather than putting pen to paper (fingers to keyboard) which is not like me usually I diversify and do many things – there was a lot to be said for focusing on one thing – for me it  worked.  It now means I will be writing retrospectively for a while.  Mabey it’ll make more sense if I just get on with it.  There is so much to say I am glad I am sharing this site with my beautiful dear friend Diane.  Whilst writing at this very moment I am thinking and believing this site is such a good tool to share with the world the experiences of two black women getting by in this big ‘ol world our ups and downs, our dreams and aspirations, our loves and losses our challenges and successes.  I am so happy here right now today this very second, and the next and the next …….. this time last year I was HOMELESS yes officially homeless a year on I have my own place, working as a community worker (my love) and lecturing in a college for excluded young people.  I’ve lost weight and I have a much healthier mind, body, soul and spirit.  During the last year I have had a year of abuse at work, left and was unemployed, thrown out of college even though I got the highest marks in the class!!! (They have since apologised- and facing my solicitor) I am now facing a major operation in the next few weeks  – but hey I am still smiling because I am here! I am alive! I am happy! I pray, keep positive and focused. In the next few days I will ‘catch up with you all and fill you in – but for now I’m doin’ fine.

Lauretta

Is it me or is Encona pepper not as hot as it used to be?  I mean I am throwing that baby on like ketchup at the moment.  Don’t get me wrong it is still good.  Only when I was younger up the very same pepper – just a splash used to have me and my sister and brothers in tears. I don’t know please let me know what you think I mean IS IT ME ? ?

Lar x

I know they are out there – I believe they are out there – I’ve been told they are out there.  Are they out there? Where have all the good men gone?  Why am I still single after all I am gorgeous, intelligent, fun, creative I can cook, keep a good home and I know how to have a good time.

Why is it I always seem to meet silly men who act as if they are doing me a favour? Am I too fussy? I have always contended that THE SEXIEST PART OF A MAN IS HIS BRAIN.  Have you have had BRAIN SEX?  That is an intellectual conversation or perhaps a fun conversation – but intelligent - thought provoking – challenging.

I still have hope and I am surrounded by good friends both male and female.  They are supportive, intelligent, fun, generous, creative and courageous.  There are times when I a sit alone on the quiet and for a moment wish I could share this stillness, this silence, this peace, my world with that special someone.  And in those quiet reflective times I sometimes I find myself asking – where have all the good men gone?

Lauretta x

I had a great day today.  I visited my old work place as a  collegue was leaving she was having her first child ahhh it’s all so lovely and I am happy for her.  I went in to see her off.  I finished my contract last month and I had not been in to see my work pals as I sometimes worked from home.  When I popped in to her leaving do they surprised me with a leaving present I was so chuffed.  You know what I really loved about where I worked in the voluntary sector - the team was very supportive, fun and hard working.  It was a pleasure to work with such enthusiastic dedicated people.  My boss the Chief Executive Julia was a great mentor and role model.  I will miss them.  They told me not to stay away to long. Sweet.

Following this most enjoyable visit I went to see DIANE and her three lovely children. It has been so long and oh my have they grown.  We talked, laughed and messed around.  Diane’s talented daughter wrote some poetry – sonnets – I read them out loud and her son played the African drums we enjoyed it so much we laughed until we nearly cried.  I had forgotten what it was like to be around a family messin’ around havin’ fun.  I was reminded of my childhood and the games I used to play with my brothers and sister.  I say good on you Diane your children are beautiful – you done good girl – I felt welcomed in the house of fun and left with a smile.

Lauretta x