The Apple Orchard: November 2006

The Apple Orchard

musings, chronicles, commentaries, bitchins & ramblins of a lost, but lovin 40 somethin year old soul...come take a bite

Thursday, November 30, 2006

a new look

I decided early this morning that I had had enough of the BLONDIE appearance I was giving off to the world...

...so I made a phone call to my chica Josie and a couple of hours later...

TA-DA this is the new me for now!!!

How do I look?

Besos mi gente...

P.S. I can see my students' faces tomorrow wondering 'who is that lady?'

posted by MsApples @ 4:07:00 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

sweet memories...

Every year, mami would plan our 'skip school & go to Radio City Music Hall to enjoy the Christmas show and watch the tree lighting @ Rockefeller Center' day. We ALL looked forward to this day. This is the day where the Mora women, all five of us, would bond and enjoy the festivities of our magnificent city.

This is the time of year where I truly miss home! This is the time of year where sweet memories of celebrating Christmas time in the city are lovingly and nostalgically remembered. This is the time of year where the clanking sound of Santa’s bell and the heartwarming scent of chestnuts roasting on the sidewalks of NY bring back the memories of my childhood.

This day was a day of wonder and awe for me as a little chica. Mami would gather us around the big Christmas angels and take our pictures, she would fuss at us because we wouldn‘t stand still---it was too cold for us to pose---but that woman still wanted her pictures!!! I remember watching the skaters and crossing the street to watch the window display at Saks Fifth Avenue…

Oooooh sweet memories…

The lighting of that tree is the ultimate sign of the holiday season; the tree stands tall and it lights up the night sky in the city I call home.

Happy Holidays
Merry Christmas
Feliz Navidad
Season’s Greetings

Besos mi gente…

posted by MsApples @ 4:04:00 PM 0 comments

wacky Wednesday

Here's hoping you have a weird and wacky Wednesday.

Besos mi gente...

XOXO

posted by MsApples @ 9:02:00 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

pfffft

I should have stayed home today! Where's my pillow???

posted by MsApples @ 11:02:00 PM 0 comments

Monday, November 27, 2006

Christmas wish list...

A Christmas wish list is all about the dream and legacy of Christmas. Everyone always hopes to get what they want for Christmas and family and friends always want to see the delight on their loved ones' faces as they receive their presents. As each ribbon is untied and every box opened there is another smile and joyous moment. It's great to provide someone you care about with such joy on Christmas day.

Ultimately it's the anticipation that really provides the excitement. Not knowing what you are getting for Christmas is the real surprise. Your best gift may never appear on your Christmas wish list. Sometimes it's not even a present at all.

Well, just in case you're racking your brain trying to figure out what to get ME for Christmas this year, have no fear because I've done the hard part for you. Here's the low down!!! LOL LOL

1. I want Andre to come back home [my most desired wish of all]
2. Tripod for my digital camera
3. 7-day Caribbean cruise
4. Queen flannel sheet set
5. New toilet...it hasn't been the same since this summer
6. Donna Karan's Cashmere Mist perfume
7. Lindt Lindor Chocolate Basket
8. GPS for my car...I hate getting lost all the time
9. shoes, shoes, shoes!!!
10. New Garfield slippers

posted by MsApples @ 6:07:00 PM 0 comments

Sunday, November 26, 2006

*smilin*

I'm happy to inform everyone that my Thanksgiving was wonderful. I had a great time with my son, sisters, brother-in-law and nephews...did a lil sightseeing while in Sarasota...ahhhh no big deal, its similar to a downscaled version of MIA.

Anywho, there's 28 shoppin days until Christmas, and I haven't gotten anything yet! This year, I know, I've procrastinated....I'm pushing it!!!! I figure... I will give out gift certificates, I'll go to Old Navy, Macy's, Bath & Body Works, Starbuck's and everyone on my list will be able to get what their hearts desire...[well at least what my pocketbook can afford].

Hmmmm, I've got to get started on my Christmas wish list..let's see if Santa's going to remember that Neyda was a good chica this year.

Antonio is in the garage as I write, I want to get started on the Christmas decorations for inside and outside the house. I want to go Tuesday and start looking at Christmas trees...I'm in the mood for a real tree this year....

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 8:32:00 PM 0 comments

Thursday, November 23, 2006

happy thanksgiving errbody!!!!!

I'm off to Sarasota. Car is packed and I'm raring to go!!!

I'm sending my well wishes to all my loved ones out here on 360 ... be blessed and enjoy the time sitting at the table together ... we HAVE so much to be thankful for!!!

Besos mi gente....

posted by MsApples @ 6:33:00 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

the lovely couple....

Here in Florida, Publix supermarkets has a commercial that airs every Thanksgiving that I just love. It's main characters are salt and pepper shakers in shape of Pilgrims. It puts me in the mood for the Holiday! It's the only Thanksgiving ad I've seen, it seems like everyone else has already skipped it and gone on straight to Christmas....I can't wait for their two snow people who come to life on the lawn when they are plugged in for Navidad!

I bought this lovely couple 4 years ago, Kevin and I were together and he was going to spend his first Thanksgiving with us. He never showed...left for some new 'toto' ...I was devasted...and so were the boys...but the Thanksgiving feast took place as planned without his sorry ass!

Needless to say, they have become a symbol of Thanksgiving here at our casa, and they never fail to make me smile. I may forget about them during the year, but each time I see this lovely couple, I remember all the things I love about Thanksgiving, and all of the many blessings I have to be thankful for.

Without these two at the table with us, we would all feel like someone was missing!

I'm packing them in my bag...they're going to Sarasota with me this year!

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 7:28:00 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

another one bites the dust...

another pumpkin pie that is....mmmmmm que rrrrico--wiping mouth

I may have to go back out and get another pumpkin pie. I kinda just finished one up!! Yup, I'm hanging my head in shame....I can't believe I ate the whole thing! [where have I heard that before?]

I told myself I would ONLY succumb to a teeny tiny slice, a sliver....ooooh no, the soft, yet toasty flaky crust...the taste of the spices...

OHHHH and the piece de resistance...THAT DOLLOP OF cool fresh chilled COOL WHIP just did me in!!!

OHHH THE HORROR!!

I've been bad...

licking spoon

posted by MsApples @ 11:35:00 PM 0 comments

Monday, November 20, 2006

giving thanks..

You've probably experienced going around the Thanksgiving table and everyone having to say what they're thankful for. I do this every year...its a tradition...everyone has to mention at least ONE thing they're thankful for. This year, Andre won't be with me during Thanksgiving, he wants to be with his father. I wasn't too accepting or needless to say HAPPY with his decision [rolling my eyes], BUT let's just say that it didn't quite take me by surprise either!

My sister, Nuria and her family, have rented a cottage up in Sarasota, Florida which is by the beach. She invited Antonio and I to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with them...I agreed...cuz goodness knows, I have NO business getting depressed and messing up Antonio's Thanksgiving. We will be heading out early Thursday a.m. I am in charge of the desserts, libations and I will be bringing my karaoke machine with me. HA HA HA

Well, being that I won't be breaking bread with you guys, here's my list of the things I'm thankful for this Thanksgiving 2006.

I am thankful for/that:

1. I have been blessed with two healthy, handsome, intelligent sons...they are everything to me...even though Andre isn't with me--physically--he's in my heart, mind and spirit.

2. A loving, caring and giving familia....

3. I'm a healthy chica...

4. My home...

5. I am able to live in a country that lets me speak my mind, live in freedom and debate the great issues of the day without fear or oppression...

6. I have a wonderful circle of friends that love me for me...

7. I can express myself--I love blogging!!

8. My relationship with God, my heavenly Father...

9. All of my Internet buddies, friends, playmates, and pals that are near and far...

10. Everyday is a new day..

posted by MsApples @ 8:43:00 AM 0 comments

Sunday, November 19, 2006

hahaha this is the life

Neyda is all alone in her casa.
Neyda gets to sleep in late.
Neyda goes to the supermarket
Neyda gets a 6 pack of Coronas
Neyda buys tortilla chips and cheese
Neyda buys pretzal mozzarella stixs
Neyda is reading the trashy National Enquirer magazine
Neyda buys Betty Crocker's Warm Delights Molten Carmel Cake..... YUMMMMMMMM

Neyda is happy
Neyda says 'THIS IS THE LIFE"

Neyda sends her besos....her mouth is full right now, you don't mind do you?

posted by MsApples @ 12:51:00 PM 0 comments

Saturday, November 18, 2006

alone again...

Yawning....stretching arms..UGH

I just dropped Antonio off at @ school. The marching band made all superior grades in county wide competitions and they are now off to compete in the 'big' state one in Tampa this afternoon. The crew won't be back until Sunday night, they're headed to Universal Studios in Orlando tomorrow for a day of R & R.

I'm going to be hanging out alone this weekend...it's a good thing. I WAS going to drive up to Orlando and visit with JC, BUT guess what?? He hasn't called, he hasn't said 'hey I'm here, what time are you arriving?' and Neyda won't go where she's not welcome. You don't have to hit me over the head with a sledgehammer to make me realize, don't bother coming.

I'm gulping down a grande Pumpkin Spice Latte, cuz at around 7:15 a.m. I have to get in the car and head out to Saturday School. Ohhhh how I love this [sarcatic tone] but its what keeps Antonio in all of his extracurricular activities.

I'm going to switch on the news and see whats going on in the world today....hmmm do I really wanna know?

Besos mi gente..

posted by MsApples @ 7:02:00 AM 0 comments

Friday, November 17, 2006

this is my chica...

Teena Marie -- Lady T is one of my fav 'ole skool' artists. Ohhhh man, this is my jam!!!!

I just want to be your lovergirl...I just want to rock your world

posted by MsApples @ 10:59:00 PM 0 comments

Thursday, November 16, 2006

dreamin...

"sueño con el sonido del oceano

con mi piel mojada por el agua tibia del mar de mi imaginacion

sueño con poder dar rienda suelta a mis sentimientos

sin censuras, ni miedos

sueño con poder compartir mi alma sin panico a perderla

sueño con gritar tu nombre en la noche oscura

sueño con ser lo que siempre he sabido que podia ser

sueño con dormirme sintiendo tu cuerpo caliente a mi lado

sueño sentir tu boca en mi cuerpo,

recorriendo cada centimetro de mi piel

sueño con perderme en tus fuertes brazos

en la eternidad del tiempo que no puedo controlar

sueño que mis palabras ya no tienen fin

y que de repente no las necesito

porque me entiendes solo con mirarme a los ojos

sueño con ese mar en nuestros cuerpos

bañando nuestros corazones,

mezclandolos en un baile de ternura y pasion

sueño contigo,

contigo,

y solo contigo...."

some things in life are not to be forgotten.....we should remember them over and over again in order to prevent ourselves to make the same mistake twice.....

posted by MsApples @ 7:57:00 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

a friend for life

I was going to post this on Friday, but today, Keener's post led me to believe that he needed a big hug and a couple of 'sweet nothings' whispered to him from someone that loves him dearly... My words come from deep inside, from within my soul. I just want to let Keener know that this past year has been amazing....and I look forward to the ones to come.

I know, that I have a friend, a friend for life. A friend that will be there for me through thick and thin regardless of how we both might agree or disagree on a subject or issues at hand. Keener has made me smile, laugh [actually snort], cry, feel loved and valued. I thank the stars up above for bringing Keener into my life...he's made it a brighter and happier place.

This is for you mi amigo del alma...seremos amigos por vida, mi tesoro

I met this wonderful soul, around Thanksgiving 2005...
Not sure if he invited me or I invited him - really though... we invited each other.
He touched me then….he touches me still.

We've become friends, wonderful friends
We can say one word and it can be a whole conversation.

Sometimes, we 'talk' every day.
Sometimes we go a week or two or three or more without real contact.
We always come back to each other.

He has quite a following, I completely understand why!
He has a generous spirit and a wise soul.
He is inspirational, creative, adventurous - in life, in love, in his writing.

Sometimes we talk about the deep stuff, the life stuff, the scary stuff.
We share... sometimes we cry.
We tell each other the truth - even if the other doesn't really wanna hear it.
We trust.
We know secrets.
We know how to have fun with each other.

Sometimes we laugh.
Sometimes we laugh a lot, so much I snort.

He knows too much.
He knows me.
He has enlightened me more than once.

I'm grateful for you everyday.
Keener, mi tesoro I feel so blessed that the universe crossed our paths!

Happy Anniversary…I love you.

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 6:41:00 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

word cloud

posted by MsApples @ 4:07:00 PM 0 comments

Monday, November 13, 2006

hangin by...

Have you ever felt that you are standing on the precipice of something big, your dream standing within your reach, and the only thing that’s standing in the way is…. yourself?

I'm thinking out loud...maybe too loud

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 9:07:00 PM 0 comments

Sunday, November 12, 2006

can we get thru Thanksgiving por favor??

It is WAY TOO EARLY to be hearing Christmas music. It’s still 83 degrees outside--Miami weather has to as least get into the low 70's LOL LOL! I actually used to enjoy Thanksgiving [something about all the earthtones that is inherently soothing to my designer psyche], but now we go from Halloween to Christmas, and all you see is a blip of a turkey somewhere in between. I don’t want to be Scrooge or anything; I LOVE Christmas but it just seems like we’re getting in such a rush these days.

Let’s slow down a little. Let the Halloween candy settle down on the thighs before we dig into a turkey dinner that will go straight to my ass. THEN we move on to the Christmas cookies and endless supply of puerco & coquito.

Tis the season to savor the flavors. I’m not ready for peppermint yet....but maybe some coquito....mmmmm yummy

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 7:05:00 PM 0 comments

Saturday, November 11, 2006

fun w/pics

Antonio and I took over 500+ pictures!! Well, today he and I came up with this lil video.

ENJOY!

I'm heading out to Office Depot to get more ink and picture paper...didn't think that we had sooooooo many pics to print.

Antonio is syked about his picture with Lisa Leslie the WNBA LA Sparks player. While we were in the Bahamas, we visited the Atlantis Hotel & Resort and as we were walking around, I noticed her and her husband walking towards us....I very nicely asked her if she could take a pic with Antonio and she obliged...really sweet...no one noticed them....truly don't know how they didn't.

All in all we had a great time, made some new friends and I am in the midst of planning another cruise getaway, this one we will be off to the Western Caribbean....

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 10:11:00 PM 0 comments

Friday, November 10, 2006

I 'm BAAAAAAACK!!!

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

posted by MsApples @ 2:46:00 PM 0 comments

Sunday, November 05, 2006

@daddy's casa

We had a wonderful afternoon @ my daddy's casa today. The weather was great and the food delicioso. Here are a few pics for your perusal.

I'm going to finish packing....cuz I will be sailing tomorrow...I'll be back Friday afternoon sometime with photos from our trip.

Besos mi gente....don't know why the "Love Boat" tune is playing in my head,

posted by MsApples @ 5:38:00 PM 0 comments

Saturday, November 04, 2006

happy birthday Antonio ...

November 4, 1990

18 hours of labor

born in distress

@ 5:40 p.m.

my firstborn took his first breath

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday Antonio

Happy Birthday to you!!!!

Antonio turns 16 today!!! I love you papito...you're the love of my life.

Birthday Wishes Son

Many, many years, in time long ago,

The day, that God gave me you.

I got a very precious gift indeed,

Blessed me many years through.

But, years seem to pass so rapidly,

For it seems as if, only yesterday,

Your little frame, was in my arms,

Yet see how you've grown today.

As you celebrate this birthday,

I wish, the very best for you,

Life be filled with joy and peace

And countless dreams come true.

Today you may well have grown up,

But in my heart, you’ll always be,

My special tiny little Baby Boy,

The one that God gave to me.

Have the very best of all birthdays,

Sending endless loving wishes true.

Dear Son today for your Birthday

From your Mami sent just to you.

He was a blind ref for Halloween

I'm on my way to Saturday school, then to a band competition @ MDC campus in North Miami. Tonight is Antonio's homecoming @ the Sheraton Mart so we have to rush home get him all cleaned up and out to pick up his date Maggie....oooooh shit I have to get the wrist corsage....I'm outta here.

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 9:39:00 PM 0 comments

Friday, November 03, 2006

TGIF

Whew....

what a week--thank goodness I made it to Friday alive and kicking.

Got to get my son's party into gear...Antonio turns 16 tomorrow!!! Dayum, I have a 16 year old??? Hmmm, I'm old.

I invited my ex-husband to the fesitivities....what was I thinking??? My daddy is going to be there and uh, he doesn't like him much--so say a prayer for me tonight as I sit back and watch what unfolds! Hopefully everyone will be civil for Antonio's sake.

I am not in the 'teaching' mode today...I have Marc Anthony playing in the background, and my students are dancing and singing along with me *giggle* It's 'viernes social' and I am getting my party on early.

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 11:09:00 AM 0 comments

Thursday, November 02, 2006

cooooookie

Nancy made me a batch of chocolate chip cookies. MMMMMMMM

I've eaten two so far, and I've had two containers of chocolate milk.

YUMMMMMMMMMMMM licking off my chocolate moustache

posted by MsApples @ 3:06:00 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

It's on lockdown...

my computer that is. I was on my desktop last night, which I am seldom on anymore since I got my laptop, and ooooh my God, what did I find???

SMUT, PORN, FILTH, you name it... I saw it.

*SIGH*

The two young men in my life apparently found a way to bypass the Parental Controls I had placed on the computer and have let this come into my home, their minds, their existence.

I didn't sleep well last night, to say the very least, I was on the phone with my ex-husband, who spoke to Andre, and I then sat up and spoke to Antonio about what they both had done. They blamed one another, they said the other egged the other one to view this 'garbage' but nevertheless they are both guilty of doing, viewing, and accessing.

I need help...if anyone knows how to put a system password on the computer that won't let them get on it even if they turn it on, POR FAVOR let a chica in on the secret.

I am upset, I am angry, I am disappointed.....

Lemme get some cafe Cubano...I am going to need it today.

Besos mi gente...

posted by MsApples @ 3:01:00 PM 0 comments

I Remember
Frank H. Brennan
New York, N.Y.

About Me

Name: MsApples
Home: Miami, Florida, United States
About Me: 46 year old NYC Cuban Love Goddess, now residing in MIA, divorced, mom to 2 teenagers, overworked & underpaid educator to loving, yet outta control students...I am intelligent, creative, sexy, compassionate, funny, sarcastic, loving, fucked up, romantic, spontaneous, moody at times, confused, confusing, a bit geeky, helpful and helpless at times, a good listener and a good friend.
See my complete profile