She So Funny

                          I wrote a whole bunch of shit but decided Katt says part of it very well.

Some people know me as a poet whose poetry is often funny.  Some know me as a comic who is more sensitive than insensitive.  Some have heard my prose and never imagined I did the other things.  For years, in my neighborhood, I was known as "Charlie's mother."  Then there are folks who know me as an actress and only that way.

In actuality these years, most of my waking time is spent being a teacher for adults who need to complete their basic education.  It's a special group.  Many things in life can and do throw a person off track.  Students come with all sorts of life challenges.  So do teachers, for that matter.

The day after I sprained my ankle, a student in one of the programs where I work (though not a student of mine) suffered a fatal tragedy.  This was compounded some days later by a vicious verbal attack on the person no longer here, and it was done on social media by a person who only knew the deceased person through our program, which he named.  He implied we'd agree with his view of things.  It was awful.

I am fortunate to be able to work for programs where I can usually close the door and create a cocoon of sorts where different degrees of healing and learning takes place.  For the most part, it is a mutually positive experience.  This morning was our end-of-year celebration.  I was in charge of the party.  Other staff and some students helped a lot for which I was grateful. 

Some people know me as a sad and heavy-hearted person, which I am.  Some people know me as someone who plays and laughs and causes laughter.  I am that too.  Like my mother, I try to create fun in spite of much.  I will always credit her for that.

This week I've had great comedy sets at benefits for good causes. Thank you George Bettinger and Bill Drewes

The school year is over in two weeks. Also in that time my adventure as a theater arts "specialist", in Mayor Bill de Blasio's (pilot) after-school arts education program for middle-school students, ends.

I'm directing* the play, Ugly Is A Hard Pill, running July 16th, 18th & 19th; in the NYC Thespis Festival at the Hudson Guild Theater.

I've been educating myself in preparation for a run for my co-op board.

I'm still coloring my hair.

Rhonda Hansome is alive! See her do comedy and you will be too!

*www.DirectedByPassion.com

He's tired.

He misses his wife.

His legs betray him at a moment's notice.

His favorite foods have long left the building.

I love my Uncle Reggie.

I am so grateful he invited me to visit with him and his family in North Carolina to celebrate his 88 years.
I spent the weekend with family.






My father's brother Reggie, does not hesitate to let you know he longs to be at rest with his beloved wife Frances. I allow his words to hit my ears and not protest his desire to go to sleep and awake in the heavenly embrace of his departed wife.

After traveling from his home in Virginia, his stamina would not allow a long visit, so we all (blood, extended family and loved ones) made the most of Uncle Reggie's time in the beautiful Eagle's Perch which, my cousin Darryl (Reggie's son) arranged for our reunion.
































I spent the weekend in this 3 floor mountain retreat enjoying an abundance of hugs and food.

My cousin Reggie Jr.,with me here

wasted no time in alerting me to the fact that among the more than 20 people gathered,

I was proud of how I took the startling news in stride. I guess these past several years of walking into comedy clubs to do a set and being the oldest person in the room, prepared me for what I'm coming to see is a gift... maturity and experience.

My cousin Darryl with me here

outdid himself in pulling food, lodging and logistics all together. His sister, my cousin Janel, does the loving job of caring for Uncle Reggie and her son. It was a time to be remembered.

Believe it or not on my US Air flight down south I traveled sitting right next to and in pleasant conversation with a fabulous woman who, wait for it... lives in my new neighborhood!
We might work out together tomorrow.

Life, you gotta love it.

See you soon enjoying the laughter!

#NotYourGrandmasComic