Saturday, February 23, 2013

Beyonce' and Brunch

In her Life is but a Dream documentary Beyonce' gave Brunch Lady an unofficial endorsement.  In so many words she said she loved her husband but she needs her sisters. Gasp: a Brunch Lady moment! Tis true.  It's something about our girls, our sister-friends, aunties, sorority sisters, cousins that get us. It's a different type of bond.  When you throw in brunch it's magical, memorable, purposeful...beautiful.  Guys may not get it, but we do. It's not always about the food or the venue (although that helps) it's about the fellowship, friendship, love, tears, joy, support and sharing that happen at a good brunch. So here it is straight from Brunch Lady...10 ways to brunch!

1. Sunday/Besties Brunch - The traditional girlfriend brunch. Typically on a Sunday after church.  Close  friends, upscale venue and random conversation ranging from food, faith, relationships, books or pop culture.  Begins with air kisses, possibly ends with hugs and tears (especially after Mimosas).  Inspiration for my Brunch book series :)
 

2. Big Hat Brunch - Possible charity event or gathering of church ladies.  Lots of lace and labels; may include white gloves, Fascinators or huge hats.  Manners, decorum, political correctness and donations are on the menu.

 3. Ambush Brunch - Involves less friends.  This is the "keeping-it-real" moment with your girl when she needs to dump that guy everyone knows is cheating, get her credit together or get off the couch and actually LOOK for a job. AKA "The Intervention" or the "Put on your big girl panties and deal with it brunch".

4. Big News Brunch - Celebratory in nature (sometimes).  A new baby, job, relocation, or a "He put a ring on it" announcement usually ensues.  Insert "yay" here. 

5. Bridal Brunch - An official gathering of the bride and her bridesmaids (BM).  After the hugs, tears, toasts memories and a meal the laundry list of BM commands/duties (and expenses) that come with this honor are announced.  But we do it with a smile because we love our girls.

6. Briefcase Brunch - A power lunch with a purpose.  Beautiful women gather to handle business with a tax write off to boot. Werk!

7. Budget Brunch - For true friends.  Venue is not an issue, a little bakery, the Waffle House or Cracker Barrel will do; no fancy-smancy food required. You just want to meet up with your girls and dish because you miss them. "My treat" or "Let's split it" is typical. No special occasion required.

8.  Girl-We-Gotta-Talk-Brunch - The opposite of 3.  Friend is admitting she needs your help. This is a no judgment zone.  Usually includes prayers, donations or accountability agreement.  That's what friends are for!

  9. Book Club Brunch -The favorite...for obvious reasons!  The holy grail of the author-book club connection. Food, fellowship and book discussion!  All Sunday Brunch Books are perfect for the occasion.

 
10. It's-Official-You-Are-My-Boo-Brunch - You and that special guy, right after he says I love you.  Men in this state will usually forget they are actually doing the brunch-girly thing because they are smitten. Take advantage of this season!

BONUS: International Brunch - Paris, Milan, London...can't you see it?  Brunch is a universal concept. This one may require your beau or a girl trip. 
        
Bon Appetit! 
Brunch Lady
www.normajarrett.net

 

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Brunch Bride - Chimeria Cleveland weds Patrick Evans



Photo Credits:  Faith Burkett - Kimbox Photography.com




Wedding Date: October 6, 2012 (X.VI.XII)


Location: Selma, Alabama


How did you meet?  Chimeria- Although we were raised in the same neighborhood, we officially met and became friends at our current job. We are both educators in a school system in our hometown of Selma, Alabama. Patrick-I’m not sure how we meet; however, I knew many of her family members. When she started working at the high school, I was impressed with her work ethic and of course the attractive way that she carried herself. 

How did you know you’d met the one? Chimeria - I knew that I had met the one because Patrick had such a kind spirit; furthermore, I could tell him anything and laugh with him about anything from the beginning. I was always able to be myself. Moreover, he never gave up until he got my attention, so I knew there had to be something more to the story. Patrick -I prayed to receive her and she hung in there with me despite some of my faults.

What was the most memorable thing about your wedding day? Chimeria - My fondest memory about my wedding day is that I was happy. As I walked down the aisle I had no doubts in my mind or heart.

What is the key to the success in your relationship? Chimeria and Patrick - The key to success in our relationship is first relying on our faith and striving to be better individuals in God’s eyes. Secondly, being a friend, this includes having a listening ear, supporting one another, and being open to many things. Lastly, having fun and enjoying one another!
 
What is it that you love most about each other? Chimeria - I love that Patrick is romantic and thoughtful. He enjoys living life to its fullest and he doesn’t mind doing what he can to help others. Patrick -I love her strength as a woman. She doesn’t take any less than what she deserves and she is driven for success. She is ambitious. She sets goals and achieves them. I also love her sexy legs.

What role does God play in your daily lives?
  Chimeria and Patrick - We realize that in order for our relationship to be successful we must keep Him as the head of our lives and our relationship. Although we are far from perfect, we work constantly to build our relationship to His liking. In our own personal walks with him, we are ever considerate of His word. Together we are growing in faith.


Share one of your fondest memories in your relationship so far. Chimeria - My fondest memories are the times that we have shared traveling together so far. I look forward to many more to come.

Do you believe God is still in the marriage business? 
Chimeria and Patrick - Yes we do and we believe that he lead us to one another for fulfillment in our lives.

What do you look forward to as a couple?  Chimeria and Patrick - As a couple, we look forward to many years of marital bliss, starting a family, remaining ambitious, and growing stronger in faith together.
 
What is beautiful about your spouse:  Chimeria - What is beautiful about my spouse is that he is God-fearing, hardworking, a wonderful father, remains healthy, and strives to keep me happy.


If the spirit leads, please share a testimony you may believe will bless other women, men or couples.   Keep your faith and believe that God has someone special for you. Don’t go looking, just be patient and wait on Him. Most of all, when He sends your blessing, be open to receive it.
Thank you Chimeria and Patrick!
Also: Special Thanks to Guest Contributor Kimberly West of StyleLifeFashion.com for a beautiful feature

Brunch love is to remind us that God is still in the marriage business. We love to feature “real life” couples that are spiritually grounded and have a testimony to share.  Be encouraged, love comes in all colors!