Four Years and It's Election Time Soon

It is an election year in the British Virgin Islands. Some candidates have already started and others are lagging behind. Some persons whose names have been called seem to be disallusioned or discouraged and some have given up. Some have tried for over 10 years and are still not successful.

My grandmother would always repeat the saying "the race isn't always for the swift" which goes back to the fable about the Tortoise and the Hare. You take your time to plan, strategize and implement. You may not be successful on the first try but the people eventually support someone who perseveres.

I always smile when candidates who run once, disappear or accept a government job or contract. Whichever the case, they seem to just be fly by night candidates. What are their true motives? Only those one-time persons will know.

The people are looking for solid leaders who seem to have the country's best interest at heart. We have several persons who have tried on more than one ocassion and have eventually won a seat. Former Legislator  Eileen Parsons and Hon. Irene Penn-O'Neal are two good examples of persons, women of course, who persevered and eventually overwhelmingly attained seats. I always say kudos to these ladies for never giving up.

Candidates need to have a good team backing them. They need to get their faces out there at least one year prior to the election if they are in a position to do so. Of course, they should follow the issues and evaluate the prior election results and a focus group in each district is not a bad idea  either.

I am an advocate for people exercising their right to vote. Many are discouraged right now but we just can't go forward that way. If the candidates are not good enough, please tell them so. Tell the party leaders, the independents themselves and all others that they are not ready, not trustworthy or incapable of moving us forward.

Where are the ones who will speak of environmental stewardship, sustainable tourism, educational reform (not deform) or cutbacks? I guess they will all step up soon to see who can win the popularity contest. Kudos to those who have already come forward. The people are rearing and waiting for the others.

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Getting Over Struggles

Reaching out to people when you are in need is difficult. Sometimes you feel like no one can ever understand your plight. In fact many of us can and we sympathize, empathize and try to give words of encouragement. There are some of us who take joy in your hurt and tell you what you want to hear to pacify you so that we can gossip or run fast away from your tirade.

I have been on every aspect of that spectrum and these days, I just leave it to God. I keep my close friends close and have casual conversation about the weather, crime, work etc with others. If someone is not bringing positivity towards me right now, I go the other direction.

I recommend that people facing struggles seek help because bottling it up won't solve anything. Reach out to someone but of course not the person who will spread your business on the street like a tabloid. Speak to a friend who is willing to listen and offer good encouragement - not advice. Seek professional advice if needed.

Take a break. Pamper yourself. Go to the beach. Prepare a favorite meal. Visit family and friends. Take up a hobby. Eliminate some of your debt.

DO SOMETHING! Break that chain and find a way to move forward. Even if the outlook is bleak, still persevere and pray for guidance.

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Some Jobs Ain't Easy...

I never aspire to be perfect but instead I work hard and roll with the punches. Many people are unhappy at their jobs and this is a reality worldwide. I am not in an optimal situation right now but so it is with most jobs. What you learn in school or at workshops don't always happen in the real world.

I do feel that just as a one bad egg can spoil the dozen, one good one can still used. Where people become so unhappy it leaves for a very unhappy environment. In some cases where people's jobs are threatened, their work in fear unsure of their next paycheck. What we need to do is learn our rights so that we are not treated as ignorant underdogs. We must also keep a log of events - good and bad. Submit reports for assigned tasks, even when you are not asked.

We have to work with difficult, lazy, disgusting and even micromanagers.  Learn your boss and do what you can until you can do better. If you need your paycheck, try to abide by the rules but remember slavery has been abolished so there is no need to take nonsense or sexual harassment from any supervisor.

Keep your head on and up. Remember, you don't need a job to shine. You came shining and can leave shining. However, you must know your rights!

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Picture from the BVI: Views from the North

View from Diamond Estate, Tortola, British Virgin Islands!

LOVELY!

The Journey of Walking to Car Ownership to Walking Again

I used to want a drive Ford Mustang in the 1990s but then I realized how much gas it burned. I always liked Toyota Camrys too because they were considered a high end sedan.

My first car was a 1991 2-door Toyota Corolla with the flip up lights. Of course this was in 2003 but I loved my little 'ragga' car. I rolled around in that little car for almost 2 years and then I realized that living in the hills required a tougher car. I then realized that a Subaru had everything that I needed - space, all wheel drive and mega comfort. I did get my Forester but it got into an accident. Apparently the insurance guys thought that the car was too good for me so they twisted my arm to get it.

Then I got a Mitsubishi Lancer and that was a huge mistake for me. It was expensive to maintain and then the transmission broke down. This was a time for good decision making. If a car repair costs 5 months rent, is it worth it? I'm cheap so NO.

I then decided that I had had enough. Gas prices have sky-rocketed and cars always need to be maintained. What's harder is that if the vehicle is not a US spec, it's harder to get parts. When you get the parts it's super expensive. I catch the bus and while it's not super convenient, I get around for less cost than owning a car right now. Plus, it's an easy way to just not take part in stuff.

My thoughts on young people just out of high school or college buying a car:
1. Buy a used car but have it checked thoroughly.
2. If you have finished college, think about buying land or opening a business first.  Land appreciates, business blossom but cars depreciate.
3. Be prepared to take care of your vehicle. Rotate your tires and change them as needed. Check your fluids weekly and keep an eye on your wiper blades.
4. Don't let your gas tank go the E often.
5. Park and walk to close destinations.
6. Keep your ride clean inside and out even though I sucked at the outside part.
7. Service the vehicle regularly. A family member or friend can do two of the services for the year and the dealer or mechanic can do one or two also just to ensure that all the sensors work etc.

Every one has to make the decision that makes life easier for them. My journeys sometimes take longer and sometimes I move faster. Once I can get there safely, I'll get it worked out. I'm actually more on time now without the car.

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Why Should I Cage My Mind?

I've run from many obstacles and I've hidden lest I fall. However, I realize that running won't save me from embarrassment or any problem. I have to live in the hole that I dig for myself. I have to deal with the nonsense that I get involved in whether willingly or forcefully. I have to love and forgive the people that set blocks in my way.

If I take time to harp on the negative I can never really move ahead. I am not a caged animal so why should I cage my mind. Why should I let others get under my skin so that I can not function or even get myself together. I've let that happen in the past and while I may cry, swear or shout, I don't waste that energy for too long anymore.

As a good friend always says it's not "in my sphere". I 'suck my teeth' and keep going!

26 Things I do with My Children

What do I do with my children?
1. I dance with them.
2. I discipline them by taking away privileges or spanking.
3. I help them to learn by giving them little assignments.
4. I pray with them.
5. I try not to leave them here and there by friends and family.
6. I encourage them to ask questions to people in the community.
7. I sing with them.
8. I do hula-hoop with them.
9. I try to give them a fruit every day.
10. I try to limit the number of candies they eat to none or less than two in a week.
11. I give them water to take to school, not juice.
12. I give them juice at night with dinner.
13. I let them sweep and take the sheets off the bed.
14. I encourage them to take part in Flower Show, Fun Day and other competitions.
15. I encourage them to walk with me.
16. I teach them dances from the 90s - soca especially.
17. I take pictures of them.
18. I tell them how I feel - even when I am annoyed I let them know they are annoying me.
19. I put them to sleep before 9pm.
20. I wake them up by 6am.
21. I let them sleep a little late on Saturdays unless we have an event to attend.
22. I take them to church.
23. I sometimes let them learn the hard way - you keep destroy your schools supplies and you will walk emty-handed.
24. I tickle them.
25. I think I encourage good hygiene.
26. I love them even when they get on my nerves.


Of course life is never limited to a list so I do a lot more!
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POEM: The Youth are Calling

The youth are calling
for us to reply.
They are crying loudly,
they don't want to be denied.
How can we save them?
We need not ask when.
We need to be proactive
so they can be content.
What do they ask for?
Just for nurturing and care,
they need good role models
so their lives can be repaired.
We need to pray for our youth,
we need to pray for their parents,
We have to pray for the community
for our lives to see improvement.
Our youth need good leaders
who implement good plans.
They need Godly direction,
to be great women and men.
Your question may be,
"What is my role?"
We all have to work together
to help the lost souls.
We all have to unite
and fight for the same good causes.
Let us lead our people
like great men such as Moses.
The youth are calling,
We can hear their cries.
When they call at your door,
what will be your reply?

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: I May Find Mine by Linette Rabsatt

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EojWyEstJ-c

Virgin Islander Publishes "Colour and Learn"

I would like to say Congratulations to Virgin Islander, Steve Lennard on publishing his "Colour and Learn" Colour Mathematics Book For Early Primary. He is a Virgin Islander who enjoys teaching and taught in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Education. He also is an Assistant Pastor at his church and the Deputy Director of the HL Stoutt Community College's campus in Virgin Gorda..

We look forward to more publications from Mr. Lennard!

Music Makes Me Love Sweets

"Brown Sugar" by D'Angelo and "Candy" by Cameo are two R&B songs that sing about something that is literally and figuratively sweet. Both have a great beats, a fun video and lyrics that talk about a 'sweet' girl. Peaches & Cream (Featuring P. Diddy) (Album Version) is another sexy song that gets the taste buds excited. Blackberry Molasses by Mista is more of an uplifting type jam which features Bobby Valentino.

"Sugar Boy" is soca by Patrice Boy and I love the way she speaks about her "Sugar Boy". You know this can only be sweet words. Nu Vybes brought us "Sugah  Band" and this had the people clubs and festivals going crazy. As the lyrics say "The people just can't get enough of the sweetness...."

Common's Like Water for Chocolate was an awesome album that had one of my favorite songs "The Light". In a previous blog entry, Confessions of a Chocolate-aholic who also loves cheesecake, I shared how much I loved chocolate.

These are only a very short list of songs or albums that talk about sweets. If I continue, I will probably want to eat sugar for breakfast.

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The Girl Who Felt She Had It Rough

Once upon a time there was a girl who felt that she had it rough. She fell in and out of love. She leaped between life and death. She creeped through the valley and soared over the hills. She dodged several bullets and caught many stars. She ran with the lions and slumbered with the snails.

Her life was never dull but never exciting. Her pockets were never full but the back pocket always had $2.00. She showed appreciation to who helped her and still commended those who ignored her cries. She fell and she got up. She lived her art and her art was a reflection of her.

She proved that life was just never perfect or balanced but that we all just need to scream, cope and run when needed. We need to cry sometimes and other times, breathe or react, or all of the above. Between the rising and the falling, she stood, sat, laid and crept her way through. Quiet or loud, whatever it took, she dealt with the blows given and she returned a few too.

Being the rebel, she was still passive resistant. A risk-taker who was also a coward. She took late action but was also proactive for what she wanted.

She evaluated and dreamed forward only to realize that all she needed to do was live.

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POEM: Starter

I'm shattered
my brain is scattered
not that it matters
to you I'm a squatter
but as my wound spatters
my clothes are tattered
so your words can't flatter
or stick me in the batter
in the abyss of the matter
at hand is a disaster
but I stand smarter
alert like a master
but as tame as a starter

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What Can A Bum Teach You

I like to make a joke that the persons who most people think are crazy are the sane ones. These people seem to live in an alternate universe and just move at their own pace. We, the sane ones, have more chronic diseases, fatigue and stress. The bums are happy within themselves and rely on everyone else refuse and kindness to survive.

We, the sane ones, are caught up in getting rich, keeping each other down and burying our kin. We are awful to our family, friends and co-workers. We set traps, dig holes and deceive to get ahead. We, the sane ones, will trample our fellow man just to get ahead.

What kind of life are we living if we have to do that? People are no longer satisfied with the basics and are always seeking to outdo one another. We no longer look at other persons as an example to live by - we look to see how we can have bigger and better than our neighbor.

The bum just wants a cool, safe night. Some are secretly rich watching us run the rat race so they choose to beg us. Some decided that the rat race was too much for them or their spirit and mind gave up trying with the fantasies of the world.

What can this teach you? Never underestimate anyone and never discriminate or classify anyone. Live your life and try your best to do right.


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Helping Hands Abound

I can be a helper in my community without being in an organization, politically elected or by being rich. We all can do small things to help those around us. Everyone has their struggles, however, we have to find positive ways to inspire each other.

I'll always say that I have amazing friends who are always thinking of others. I like that because that behavior rubs off on me in a "pass it forward" kind of way. LIME in the BVI, when they were still Cable & Wireless, had a motto - TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More. I think this is so true.

If we all unite and fight for the same cause, then we can get results faster. Working together makes a job lighter. I know that there a fables that read differently but it all depends on the tasks and the leadership involved.

Good work is not always recognized but a kind-hearted person is someone who will have patience and be humble. They help because they are compelled to. God somehow directs them to help others even if they did not plan to. When more than one person is sent by God to assist another, multiple blessings are flowing.

Let's work together and see how we can help someone in need, a non-profit organization or an environmental cause.

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"Power Seeker" or "Change Leader"

I was never interested in "Power Seekers" to run my country. I am always looking for "Change Leaders" who make decisions that may seem controversial but really are in the best interest of the people. It is hard to find leaders like that today because the power always seems to get to heads.

"Absolute power corrupts absolutely".  This statement is true. Leaders need to be reminded that we, the people, have the power and that they can be replaced. However we seem to get complacent and accepting of what they do to us. While efforts may seem futile in any situation, there is always a recourse. Never feel that managers or leaders are the final destination. Everyone is only put in a position for a time and this includes you and I.

We want "Change Leaders" who are going to stand up for justice. We all have our biases but we have to maintain a level of professionalism in exerting our duties. No country should accept leaders who constantly ignore the needs of their constituents.

Everyday we realize that our lack of preparation is causing several emergencies in our country today. However, we can not make the statement that  "lack of preparation on your part does not constitute an emergency for me". We all have a part to play and a role to speak up and out when we see our leaders are not chartering a clear course.

We have seen that our people are sick with several chronic diseases for years now. Health Education programs needed to be implemented in the primary schools for how long now? School lunch programs in conjunction with the agricultural sector should have already been in place. What kind of lunch is chicken and chips? Children consume this every day today. We are crying that in 2000 there were 2 dialysis patients but in 2010 there are 38 with 10 bordering to be added to that list.

There are statistics in front of us crying out that we are not being proactive in taking care of our people, our infrastructure and our environment. What are we going to do now? Keep listening to the "Power Seekers" or work with the "Change Leaders?"

A "Change Leader" would be the one who will say we are heading for a deficit and subsidies will have to be cut. However, this type of leader will seek alternative ways for people to still survive like sending us to the Small Business Bureau, Labour Department or National Bank to create cottage industries. Our people are spoiled into believing that handouts are how to get ahead. There will be scholarships, compeitions etc and they never see it fit to take part. We just prefer to receive the infamous "white envelope".

"Change Leaders" have to curb this behavoir. However, there will be families in need and assistance should be given but teach them how to fish in the meantime.

What type of leader do you seek to be? I am up for change!

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What Do You Follow

People get excited over controversy and conspiracy theories. I get excited with new challenges and making positive change. The propaganda is actually strewn around and the negatives can distract you and keep you back.

The hot topics grab everyone's attention and can really have a negative effect on everyone concerned and around. It makes us pay attention to the insignificant details as we miss the true point. The world thrives on this and it's what makes many media houses rich.

You have to decide what you want to subscribe to and what you let clutter your space - be it positive or negative. I actually like to watch music video (oldies) or sitcoms to keep me in balance with the crime, social ills, political corruption and tragedies that permeate the airwaves today. With what's happening, people are marking dates for the apocalypse.

I subscribe to whatever God enacts and lays before me. I can prefer or wish for many things to happen but if it's the Father's will, I am his servant and can only endure until he calls me home. I encourage every man to seek for their understanding and live according to what keeps them grounded.

There was tragedy in the early days and such natural disasters are bound to occur. Our tenacity and tendency to disagree will also make room for wars. Therefore, we just have to live right in the best way we can and get ready.

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A Hard Monster to Tame

I shared this snippet of words on my Facebook page yesterday:

I like it hot
you like it cold
I may not seem confident on the spot
but I am superbly bold
I love the warmth
You seem more frigid
We differ in thoughts
I'm flexible and you're rigid.

I do love working with words, phrases, diction and poetry.

While some people are fearful, intimidated by or are suspicious of Facebook, I have the firm belief that Facebook is great for sharing information, networking and planning finding loved ones and old classmates. I never encourage anyone to put too much information on the internet especially on social sites. I am very wary of photos as well. We see enough explicit behavior on television. We don't need to see you in a bathing suit in a provocative pose because surely your 'goods' should not be so readily availble on the world wide web.

I am especially concerned about the young ladies who seem to dedicate their lives to Facebook. They may spend hours on Facebook the same way that boys can become addicted to playing video games. While I don't believe that we take away Facebook from the children, we the parents ahve to stay close to them and monitor their usage. No child should stay on a computer for over 4 hours unless they are doing homework.

The internet is a useful tool that provides tons of information that we can use. Idle hands do not work well with the internet. We all want to be empowered so that we can grow and the internet provides ideas, information for research, self-help tips, news and so much more. We just have to use it wisely because it is a monster that is most difficult to tame.

Why Breastfeeding is Best for Mother and Baby

Both a mother and a baby can benefit from breastfeeding because it is nutritious, healthy and saves both time and money for a family.

Breast milk offers the most nutritious food that newborn baby can receive. Breastfeeding also promotes health for a mother and it is very efficient for saving time and money.

Breast Milk Nutritious for Baby

Breast milk is naturally constituted for the healthy development of a baby. It has all the nutrients that a growing baby needs. According to the "Benefits of Breastfeeding" section of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services website WomensHealth.gov, breast milk can protect babies from germs, illness and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) because of the natural antibodies, cells and hormones in the milk. Breast milk is also very easily digested by infants.

Healthy for New Mother

Breastfeeding naturally helps a new mother to lose weight because this activity can burn up to 500 calories per day. It also releases oxytocin, which according to the article "Breastfeeding Basics" on WebMD, is a hormone which which helps a mother's uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may also reduce uterine bleeding after birth.

Breastfeeding Promotes Bonding Between Mommy and Baby

Children grow up so fast and the few moments that a mother can savor with her newborn while breastfeeding are precious. Breastfeeding creates an irreplaceable bond that only a mother can give to her newborn. Because breastfeeding is such a full contact activity, both mom and baby warm each other and baby is able to familiarize herself with mom.

Breast Milk Saves Time and Money

There is no need to mix formula, heat water or use a thermos to keep water or milk warm. If the father or any caregiver has to take care of the baby while the mother runs an errand, then expressed breast milk can be fed to the infant. If a mother can express her milk and freeze it safely, there is minimal need to purchase formula which definitely saves money.

Fathers Can Assist With Breastfeeding Too

With all the benefits for mother and baby, fathers cannot be left out. Fathers can assist with burping the infant and in cases where the mother may have had a Cesarean section, he may have to assist mommy with lifting the baby and also with latching the baby to the breast. Also, once a mother expresses her milk, a dad can feed the baby.

When Breastfeeding is not an Option

There are some mothers who will not be able to produce breast milk or in cases of HIV or AIDS infection, mothers are not allowed to breastfeed. Some mothers also have a difficult time breastfeeding due to inverted nipples, poor latch or complications with the baby needing to be kept hospitalized. Not being able to breastfeed in no way diminishes a woman's value, her love or her bonding time with her baby. Instead, the mother can bottle feed and still hold and sing to her baby along with her partner to maintain that much needed bond.

Help With Breastfeeding

Most hospitals and clinics in the United States and in most Caribbean Islands will have nurses on staff who will promote and can assist with breastfeeding. In some countries, a lactation consultant is a trained person who can help mom with any breastfeeding issues. For example, a lactation consultant would help a mother with inverted nipples by suggesting the use of breast shells which assist with pulling the nipples out to make feeding easier for baby. Having this support is essential to help mothers and fathers to pass over the difficult hurdles in breastfeeding. Breast milk is natural, healthy and easily digested by babies. It saves time and money for mommy and helps her to burn calories and lose weight.

With the ability to express milk and freeze it for future use, the father and other caregivers can be a part of the breastfeeding process to help keep baby healthy. While not every mother will be able to breastfeed, for those who are able to, breastfeeding is a beautiful experience for mother and baby.

It's a New Day

The Reggae's 2006 "New Day Riddim" has a list of songs that I listen to almost every day. They are not the most popular songs on the radio today nor were they in 2006. The music is positive and caught my attention. I sat down and I searched on the internet for the songs on this riddim because there was one that I loved to hear and just could not figure out the name.

Once I realized that there was more than one song on the riddim, I looked for the song I knew "Royal Bless" by Ras Attitude. After searching on YouTube and then via Google and Yahoo, I was able to learn that the name of the riddim was the "New Day Riddim". It is a very soothing instrumental with guitar and drums being the central focus. This riddim makes me smile and inspires me with its mellow beat.

Other songs on this riddim include:

• "Always" by Niyorah

Lyrics include "It is you Jah has sent for the kingman, lovely girl, let's make love in the rain" and "I am the waterfall, you are the stream below, a blessing from the top so that your water flows".

• "Swept Away" by Abijah

"I see the youthdem starving, they're starving, on the fields where food should be farming they're fighting" and "Be swept away by the holy one" are some of the lyrics.

• "If Jah is For You" by Lutah Fyah

"If Jah is for you, then who can be against you" is the chorus.

• "Situations" by Princess Menen and Marlon Asher: "

"Situations getting rough, the life I life is rough" is part of the chorus.

• "Trodding On" by Midnite

"How many times man plant and never reap" and "The insulation of love must be fair" are some of the lyrics.

• "Human Heart" by Yami Bolo

"Everybody have a heart though it may be broken sometime" is the chorus.



I love keeping it mellow. Music is a big part of me. I enjoy and write about Reggae, R&B and Hip Hop and sometimes Gospel.

POEM: Words for Mom

It's another day in to Thank God and enjoy the life that is given to us. We are not sure if there will be a tomorrow so we must live today and do good. Mother's Day is every day and so is Father's Day. I am not a huge celebrater of these 'days' but since I am a poet and I have a diverse range of work I do have pieces that can work for these 'days'.


Words for Mom
Mom, when was the last time
I said that I loved you?
You are the one person
that I can speak openly to.

You are the one
who always lifts my spirits.
You are always telling me,
“Go for it! Go get it!”

Mom, I love you
more and more each day.
You’ve set a good example
in all you do and say.

You love God
our only foundation.
You’ve taught me to be
an inspiring mentor for this nation.

I can only wish
that I can be a parent like you
who loves her children
the way that you do.

© Linette Rabsatt

Simple Creole-Styled Tofu Recipe: A Fun & Easy Way to Prepare Tofu

Tofu is nutritious with many health benefits and can be prepared in many ways. This Simple Creole-Styled Tofu recipe is a fun and easy way to prepare tofu for a family.

Tofu is a healthy choice for both men women to add in their diet. The Leasa Industries, Inc. website states that tofu is made from soybeans that have been dried, soaked in water, crushed, and boiled. Calcium sulfate is added as a curdling agent to firm the tofu into the finished product.

Tofu Is Good for Your Health

Tofu is high in protein and low in fat and sodium. It is also is high in calcium, iron, selenium and copper. Tofu has been added to many diets to promote weight loss and to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Tofu Preparation

Tofu is used in many diets as a substitute for meat. It can be fried, baked, and used in desserts, among the many uses. It can be served in curry, creole or alfredo sauce. Tofu can be scrambled and also used to make burgers. Tofu is not difficult to prepare but creativity, seasoning and herbs and spices play an important role in making it delicious.

Simple Creole-Styled Tofu

Ingredients:

• 1 16oz. firm tofu - drained and cubed
• ½ tablespoon seasoning salt (low sodium, if preferred)
• ¼ large white onion
• ½ small sweet pepper or 2 small seasoning peppers
• 1 garlic clove
• 3 sprigs of parsley
• 1 sprig of thyme
• dash of dried Oregano
• 2 dried rosemary leaves
• 4 tablespoons of ketchup or tomato paste
• ½ plum tomato, deseeded
• less than ½ teaspoon of brown sugar
• ½ small lime
• olive oil
• water

 Directions:

1.  Add seasoning salt to the tofu in a bowl with a cover, shake and set aside.
2.  Cut the sweet/seasoning pepper, tomato and onion into ½ inch pieces. Chop the garlic and parsley into small pieces. Add to sweet pepper, tomato and onion along with thyme, oregano and rosemary and set aside.
3. Using a large frying pan or a wok, add olive oil enough to the cover the bottom of the pan and heat on low fire. As soon as the oil is hot enough, add tofu. Let the tofu brown and rotate so that each side is golden.
4. Add the sweet pepper, onion, thyme, rosemary, tomato, parsley and garlic and sauté until tender.
5. Squeeze the juice from the lime and add the sugar and stir for 1 minute.
6. Add water enough to cover ½ the height of the tofu and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Add the ketchup or tomato sauce and add more water if needed so that a sauce remains in the pan. Stir and let the tofu simmer covered for 3 minutes and remove from heat.

This Simple Creole-Styled Tofu recipe can be served with any starch and vegetables and is tasty and heart-healthy. This simple recipe can serve a family of four and provides a good source of essential nutrients in keeping the body healthy. 

My 200th Blog Post

This is my 200th blog post. Even though some older posts may be about past events, I like to look back and see what was done.

This blog has been a good outlet for me to share my thoughts, to vent about issues, to share events and to share poems. As I build my resume as a writer, I find that it is important to write often. I do not have a journalism education but I have a business degree with concentrations in marketing and finance. Fifteen years ago I would not have seen myself today writing a blog or publishing poems or writing for Brown Eyez Magazine, Dish Magazine, Core Magazine and Suite 101.

I am happy for this opportunity to share my thoughts as Words of Ribbon. I hope that readers have and will continue to enjoy what I write.

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Ideas for Relieving Boredom

People always get bored but there are ways to keep active and focused. Try new authors, hobbies, volunteering or join an club to stay occupied and happy.

Boredom can have negative effects because of the way it takes away positive energy. People get bored for more than one reason and it gets worse as they remain in that drudgery. Lack of television or a partner or children are not reasons to be bored. Negative effects of boredom include overeating and a potential for laziness. Instead, good alternatives to boredom engage experimentation into trying new things. Explore the world of literature, music, cooking, games and gardening. Other ways to relieve boredom include joining groups and spending time with family and friends.

Explore & Enjoy Music

There are many genres of music such as classical, pop, indie, reggae, hip hop, jazz, soca and others. It is good to explore the different types of music in the world to develop an appreciation for the different cultural influences. Conduct research on Google.com and MySpace.com on the different types of music and visit YouTube to view artists and music videos from all over the world. Be sure to take time and dance also because dancing is good exercise and can surely lift the spirit.

Research and Read New Authors

Reading is always a good pastime. Conduct a search on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and other book sites for new authors, their work and customer reviews. Visit the local library and lend the titles, purchase from a thrift shop at reduced cost or enter into a book exchange to save money.

Find New Recipes for Fun

While boredom can lead to overeating, anyone who is bored can explore new and healthy recipes that can be prepared in small servings or shared with family and friends to avoid overeating. The internet provides a wealth of recipes for all types of cooking, baking and for a variety of foods.

Make Contact with Family and Friends

It is important to maintain contain with family and friends. Visit the family, especially the elders. If family members are far away, call and text or save money by chatting via an instant messaging program. Setting aside special time to visit or interact with family and close friends can ease boredom.

Play More Fun Games

There are many games to choose from to ease boredom. At home, there are crosswords, Sudoku, word search, puzzles, board games and card games. As a weekend outing, visit a bingo game or a darts or domino tournament and participate. For persons who prefer more active games or who prefer to view than participate, there are always local youth and adult games of soccer, basketball, softball and other sports.

Gardening Relieves Boredom

Gardening provides either actual food or beautiful ornamentals. Whatever the choice, gardening is a very healthy hobby that can be started on a small scale with a container garden. The National Gardening Bureau in an article, "[Why Garden: The National Garden Bureau's Top Ten] (http://ngb.org/gardening/todays/article.cfm?ID=55)" provides its top reasons for gardening which include exercising, safe and healthy food production, earning money and especially meeting emotional needs and gaining spiritual connections. Gardening is good hobby to reduce boredom by occupying spare time in a healthy way.

Volunteering

One way to reduce drudgery while giving back to the community is to volunteer with non-profit organizations such as a Humane Society or Animal Shelter, Red Cross or a community mentoring

program for youth or senior citizens. Volunteering is also a way to hone interpersonal and team-building skills by interacting with others.

Join a Group

Check the local media for the different groups in the community. Regular congregation with persons of like origin, goals and interests helps to keep balance because the common factors keep the activities interesting. In the British Virgin Islands, there are many church groups, a poetry group and other non-profit organizations. Such groups often perform community service and this makes joining more worthwhile.

The activities not only relieve monotony but offer a good way to help others. Boredom can be alleviated once there are other interests that can be developed into hobbies or positive activities. It is important to keep the mind and body stimulated to maintain health and a positive mindset. Using the internet wisely, engaging in new activities and volunteering are just some of the ways that everyday boredom can be alleviated.

The Man Who Wanted Development vs The Man Who Wanted Wealth

Once upon a time, there was a man who lived in a little house on a big hill. He had very few neighbors and very few luxuries of life. He had two heads of cattle, five goats, five sheep and ten rabbits. He also had a vegetable garden and many fruit trees. He always preferred to have access to food rather than a big house. He felt that if he wanted to attract a good woman, he would impress her with his bountiful garden rather than a big empty house.

This man had a neighbor on the opposite hill who built a large home because he wanted a woman who would be attracted to his wealth. He wanted her to be able to fill his house with friends and children. If he could fill his five acres with just the house alone he would because a woman could fill the estate with people who could admire his wealth.

The two men could find women that suit their wishes - good woman who wants to build a family based on principles or a woman who is attracted to wealth. We can look at these two men as examples of the way our leaders envision the future in our country. Do we want leaders who will only want to attract wealthy investors but who do not seek to build a nation with proper infrastructure, environmental preservation and food security? Or do we want leaders who will think about the future?

Do you think that if a flood occurs in the valley, the neighbor will be able to survive if he has no food planted? What will he do if his water sources run out? Will the people he wanted to attract with his wealth be there to help him rebuild? What will the man with his little house do? Do you think he will manage?

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Why Supervisors and Employees Disagree

There are times when the managers and the staff will disagree. Salary, promotion and micro-management are some of the causes of the disagreements.

Managers and supervisors need to have healthy working relationships and clear communication with the employees so that work flows and on-the-job conflicts can be solved in a timely manner. However, despite how supervisors and staff may try, there will be times when they disagree. These parties disagree because of promotional opportunities, a breakdown in communication, salary, micromanagement and inappropriate behavior.

Promotion

Employees look forward to working in an organization that has room for growth and promotion.

According to Gregorio Billikopf, author of Labor Management in Agriculture from the College of Natural Resources of the University of California, Berkeley, "organizational movements, such as promotions, transfers, job rotations, demotions, and layoffs may alter workers' security, satisfaction and productivity". When an employee sees that others are pushed forward, while he is not promoted, he will be disheartened. The employee can get disgruntled and disagree not only with the supervisor but with the other employees. On the other hand, the manager can fall out with an employee who was promoted and is not delivering a high level of work as expected.

Performing the Duties of Others

Have you ever worked in an organization where the supervisor recognizes that you have special talents? If you have, you may have been stuck with tasks outside your job description. Sometimes the tasks are actually those of other employees who are somehow unable to perform. If the tasks are relevant to your position, then you can add same to your resume. However, employees can quickly get frustrated when other staff's work is set upon them just because they can excel at simple tasks like adding page numbers to a document or formatting a memo. When employees are singled out to perform tasks that others should be doing, it can lead to frustration.

Breakdown in Communication

 A breakdown in communication can be unclear communication or lack of communication. Unclear communication causes rifts between couples, with friends and certainly between employees and supervisors. According to the Jamaica Gleaner in a September 23, 2007 article, " Communication Likely to Affect Loyalty in the Workplace - JEF ", "a group of workers surveyed by the Jamaica Employers' Federation (JEF) has identified communication at the workplace as the number one factor likely to influence their loyalty to their organizations". Communication breakdown can occur in the sharing of complaints and qualms, whether considered insignificant or major. It can also happen when tasks given out are vague. Both the employer and the employee have to ensure that communication is clear and definitive to avoid conflict.

Salary Issues

Salary, especially with the soaring oil and food prices, is very important to employees in all levels in an organization. Any action that affects an employee's take home pay, specifically a decrease, will be cause for disagreement with the supervisor. In some instances, an employee may have exceeded the allotted sick days or vacation leave for a year and has to take leave without pay. This instance may also fall under the unclear communication heading if the supervisor does not explain the company's policy and the country's labor laws.

Micro-management

There are some employees that need constant supervision. However, many staff members are capable of executing their tasks with little or no supervision. Miriam-Webster Dictionary defines micromanage as "to manage especially with excessive control or attention to details". Employees, especially those who are mid-level to senior staff members, may want to work independently on most projects. An example where micromanagement may lead to disagreement is where a senior worker is assigned a project and is implementing said task with a team of peers and subordinates. When the manager intercedes and gives new tasks or orders changes to the subordinates, then there is a strong chance that there will be a negative interaction between the project head and manager. Micromanagement in such a case also causes the subordinates to be confused and they may lose confidence in the project head.

Disrespectful or Inappropriate Behavior

There is no toleration for disrespectful or sexually suggestive behavior in the workplace. This is not only a cause for contention and can also bring litigation by the employee or the employer. Even if your supervisor swears, that is no indication that any employee should follow such behavior. Sexual advances are also not acceptable by either the management or the staff or across either level. 

There are several reasons why employees and supervisor disagree. While we hope to have a peaceful work environment, contention will occur. When disagreement becomes constant, then all sides need to meet on all issues, with a mediator if needed, to get the organization running optimally without

unnecessary disturbances.

Sources:

• Communication Likely to Affect Loyalty in the Workplace - JEF", Jamaica Gleaner, Published September 23, 2007 and accessed online May 3, 2011
• Miriam-Webster Dictionary, accessed online on May 3, 2011
• Billikopf, Gregorio. Labor Management in Agriculture (2nd Edition, 2003). College of Natural Resources of the University of California, Berkeley. Accessed online version on May 3, 2011.

POEM: I have

I've seen the mighty fallen
and I've seen the fallen rise
I have travelled to the hilltops
as I asked God to open my eyes

I've roared like a mountain lion
I've risen to the mighty call
I have lived in the naked nature
I've sat in trees majestically tall

I've prayed with the downtrodden
I've given them a helping hand
I've seen the struggles of ten thousand
I walked with them on the black sand

I want to be among the mighty
I love nature's open call
I wish for peace among the nations
for us to all stand strong and tall

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Nature - Trying to love it all

Nature is so beautiful. There are things in nature that scare us, however. I love the trees except for the posionous ones like the Machineel. I love butterflies but I can't stand cockroaches, scorpions, tarantulas and centipedes, which are all somewhat poisonous. I do like the oleander, the national flower of the British Virgin Islands, but it is also poisonous yet beautiful.

Nature has so many varying species - all somewhat related yet so different. Nature encompasses the land, sea and air along with us. Our role is to sustainably shepherd the environment so that it will replenish until God comes for his world.

I realize that the Food Chain, Water Cycle and other such theories show balance and replenishing. If I try to eradicate all the honey bees, then there will be havoc - no pollination and no honey. If I rid the world of lizards and geckos, we will be run over by flies and mosquitos, another insect that I do not like at all.

Life is nature and nature is balance. Enjoy the environment and try to take care of it. Manage your waste responsibly and appreciate Mother Earth.

Ribbon Bares Her Soul....

If I could turn back the hands of time, I would not. God has a perfect plan in place and in play so why would I want to mess with that. It makes no sense for me to wish that I had more, said more or did less. It's already happened. I can only strive to encourage those around me to do right and not to fall into the traps I fell into.

I may say that slavery should not have happened or any of the wars. I may have tried to stop the natural disasters or nuclear disasters. I may want to save the environment. However, it is in the Almighty Father's hands. I can only be the best steward and flock leader that I can be.

I have done many a wrong and will not pretend that I am perfect. I have fallen down and have gotten back up. I am crawling right now and am trying to get better. There is no reward in false pretense and trying to put on airs. That air will deflate and drop you. I will not steal to look good or drive a big car. I will not be hungry because of credit card debt for nonsensical things.

I have accepted that I can not turn back the hands of time. I can not change the past. I can look back and see my errors and try to be better today. I can inspire others with my story in the effort to keep them on the right path.

I am not the perfect role model and never will be. I'm just the abnormal thinker who will not try to change the past but who will forge ahead for a better tomorrow. It is God's will and is all in his hands.