Merry Christmas To All 2011

Christmas 1993

I like this so much when I created it a couple of years back. I'm dusting it off and posting it again for Christmas 2011. Please enjoy. Thank you.
Press the play button to view the slide show.

Happy Birthday Tony

I'm not sure when or why I began to refer to Tony as my kid brother? I think back when we were barhopping there was a joke that I was the big or older brother. He's MUCH older than I am, but I still call him my kid brother. Today he celebrates the thirtieth anniversary of his twenty-first birthday. May this new year bring you the BEST of all life has to offer.

Muir Woods National Monument

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." ~ John Muir

Happy Birthday Toyia

Sometimes you don't know what you've got until it's gone. I know how BLESSED I am to have a sister named, Toyia Lynn. I'm not going to say we are in total agreement all the time, because that would be a lie from the pits of hell. What I will say is my sister always has my back. All of my life, Toyia has always been there supporting, loving, caring and defending me. Yes, she's a good sister to have. My wish for her as she turns another year better is the BEST life has to offer in ever conceivable way.

The Watts Towers

Leaving On A Jet Plane...

Plans change, people change and that's all good as I sit on the veranda, sipping coffee and listening to Chaka Khan sing about living a super life. I have to admit this is a nice change of pace. It feels good to get away and spend time in my second home. The nice thing is "COOL LEE" and "UNRULEY COOLEY" have a chance to spent some quality time together. After a few laughs, we decided to dine out for breakfast. Time to start moving and get out and about. I'm going to say a fun time will be be had by all.

The Black Man Has Green Thumbs

I have a friend with green thumbs, for real. I've seen what he's been able to do in his garden and it's pretty incredible. To say the man has talent is an understatement. It seems as though whatever he puts his hands on grows and flourishes effortlessly. Granted this brother is a horticulturalist, so that may be the reason he has the ability to grow anything, anything at all. Growing flowers and plants is not easy. It takes time and great patience. Yeah, I don't think I'm all too patient when it comes to growing things. I once killed a cactus (too much water or not enough - still not sure), and I'm greatly impressed with his knowledge and ability to cultivate plants and flowers. I'll correct myself and say all things growing. Nicholas takes pride in his garden and lawn and he should. He's put in a lot of time and physical labor to achieve the end results. He shared pictures of his latest plantings with me and I'm sharing them with you. I'm thinking I may try growing a plant again. Next weekend I'm going to buy a houseplant. I should be able to keep it alive/growing much longer than the cactus. Trust, I'll ask "Mr Green Thumbs" plenty of questions to ensure the plant will live. Nice pictures, Nicholas. You make it look easy.

First, The Tide...

press play to view the clip

I shot this mini-clip when I was in Los Angeles in February. It's not very long, but it gives a brief glimpse into the serenity of watching the Pacific Ocean rushing in and then rolling again. I try to make it to Venice Beach each time I visit L.A. It may not be the most "glamorous" of the beaches in Southern California, but it's one I do enjoy visiting. One of the best things to do it sit on the sand and watch the sunset. It's something I believe should be experienced once in your life.

6:55 AM, Robert Street Bridge...

Sometimes mistakes can be a good thing. I was on my way to work (running literally) and jumped on a bus. The bus I jumped on was the wrong one and it dropped me off on the other side of the Mississippi River. This meant I had to walk across the Robert Street bridge (crossing the river) to get to my office. As I was walking I noticed the sun was rising, but I saw the moon as well. In this moment I thought about the beginning of one day and the ending of another. I stood in a place that allowed me to capture the sun and the moon. Though I was running late I stopped long enough to look. It was cool moment and I took some time to stop and snap a pictures of the sun and the moon that morning. At the end of the day I realized that was the most peaceful time of my day. My lesson learned; find those moments/minutes/hours for yourself AND enjoy them - whatever the period of time. You're entitled to a little "me time" and you (man, woman, child or beast) should always indulge yourself. Make it happen because only YOU will take care of you.

Grandma Needs To Cook Something!

Early Saturday morning I had a dream about Grandma. I like when that happens. Typically when I dream about her she's taking a moment out of her busy schedule to talk to me. That woman has got a lot happening now. She's constantly on the move. When we finished our chat, I walked into a kitchen in the dream. Not one I'd seen before, but it was a familiar and comforting place to me. I said out loud, "I wonder why Grandma hasn't cooked for me? It's been years since she's cooked and I'm gonna ask her to bake a pie or something." I turned and walked out of the kitchen. When I woke up I still had that idea on my mind; I have to ask Grandma to cook something. My day was off to a good start and my plan was to have my Grandma cook for me. It was somewhere while I was sipping coffee that I remembered WHY she's not cooked for me. There are those moments when I simply forget she's not with me in body, but most definitely in spirit. I didn't feel sad or depressed. I was happy I had a dream of Veltirea. She had a powerful presence on all of our lives; family and friends. I'm thinking the dream means it's time to get in the kitchen and get creative. I'll have to make an apple or cherry pie soon. I'm going to leave the peach cobbler alone. I made one for Christmas last year and I didn't like that disaster. Practice does NOT make perfect and I have no plans to do that again.

Timoteo's Tacos

It was about fifteen years ago the UNRULEY one and Wilma B introduced a new idea to me. A new way of eating one of my favorite things to eat; tacos. As we sat in the kitchen, we shared stories, laughter and awaited our meal of tacos made from Morningstar genuine, imitation meat.
That's not the name on the box, but that's what I labeled them. Wilma B (a.k.a Juanita) was working the stove, creating magic and had everything all laid out. Once the meat alternative was done, it was time to eat. I was surprised there was no lettuce. Cilantro was used in place of lettuce. First no meat and now no lettuce?!?!?!? I'm from MinneSNOWta and I was used to eating tacos prepared with REAL meat - beef, turkey or chicken was what my people (family and friends) used. Lettuce was used, not cilantro.
I believe you should try something new and different to keep your life fresh and have new experiences. This was a first for me and I was ready to give it a try. The tacos weren't bad at all. In fact, I enjoyed eating them so much I stuffed my face. I was impressed with the taste and happy I tried something new. I came home with the brilliant idea to make them for my carnivore grandmother, mother, sister and nephew. Not everyone is open to something new, especially if you're using a meat alternative. Grandma said, "It's not a meal if there's no meat." The odds were stacked against me, but I decided to give it a try. Needless to say the meatless tacos went over like a lead balloon. My family wasn't ready to make the change to tacos made from veggie burgers. One thing they did enjoy was the cilantro. That went over very well.
In fact, we still have tacos (made with meat) with cilantro today.

Ain't No Sense In Going Home...

So I was talking with Mr C a few months ago and he mentioned this song, "Jody Got Your Girl And Gone," by Johnnie Taylor. When we finished our phone call I thought about that song for a few minutes. My mind was transported to 685 Fuller Avenue, where we lived when the song was released in 1971. Our record player was located in several locations in our house. It could be found in the foyer, living room or dining room - depending on how Mom wanted the furniture arranged for that week. I'd put a stack of albums or forty-fives on the spindle and the fun would begin. Each one would drop and the house would fill with music. I remember playing, "Jody Got Your Girl And Gone." I had no idea what the hell the song was about, but I knew most of the words and would sing right along with Johnnie Taylor. I liked that song when I was a little five year old boy, and I still like it as a grown man. Thanks to Mr C for reminding me of a good song I had forgotten. I can't say I recall all of the lyrics, but I do remember this, "Ain't no sense in going home, Jody got your girl and gone!"
press play to hear the song

Timothy says...

"The most valuable possession we have is our word. We must do all we can to ensure its worth is never diminished." ~ TSL

Tyra Lynn Fowler

No words can express what I feel in my heart for my cousin Trya.

Tyra Lynn Fowler
October 31, 1962 ~ August 25, 1995

Brandy & Tamia - Missing You by Dj_halexander

Baby, You Turned Me Out...

You never know what you'll find on the internet. I was looking for another song and came across a remixed version of the UNRULEY one's song with Klymaxx. "All Turned Out" was a jam back in the day. Always a party starter and a song that would crowd the dance floor every time it was played. The song was first heard on the Girls Will Be Girls album released in 1982. Get ready for this cut to breathe new life. Márcio Vermelho, of São Paulo, Brazil has given the song an updated sound for 2011. Some remixed version of songs are reworked to the point of being unrecognizable. No worries here, you'll know this song. What was good just got better. I'm sitting here typing and rocking my head to the beat. Check it out!

Turned Out - Vermelho Edit by vermelho

Eat, Laugh, Learn and Love...

I spent the July 4th with the family and it was very nice. We had (yes, I'm going to tell it) a lot of delicious food. The "barbeque queen" worked her magic once again. Toyia knows how to work a grill and does a damn good job. Much better than I could, for she has the patience I know I don't. I say, know your talents and utilize them. She braved the morning heat to barbeque ribs, chicken, pork chops, three types of bratwurst and a slab of bacon. Yes, the "barbeque queen" barbequed a slab of uncut bacon and it's good. She picked, cleaned and cooked twenty bunches of collard and mustard greens. I love me some greens! My contribution to the meal was macaroni and cheese, baked beans (try them with sweet Italian sausage, green and red peppers and diced onion), corn, cole slaw, dinner rolls and cornbread. I made a pineapple upside cake and caramel pecan brownies for dessert. After the meal we sat around and discussed family history. One story lead to another and soon we logged on Ancestry.com, Snookie and I discovered more information about the Lowry side of the family. We located census records about Maggie Lowry Smith, her husband Henry and their three children. I will add all of this to the family tree. I enjoyed Snookie and Mom telling me their recollections about the family's neighbors/friends in Lawrence, Kansas. They have long lasting memories of their summers spent in Kansas with their grandparents. Yeah, I know some people would rather, drink, smoke, shake a tail feather, cuss or fight with their family at a gathering. I say go for whatever makes you happy and ensures you have a good time. Me? I prefer talking, sharing good food, laughter, stories and learning my history when I gather with my clan. We had a Happy Fourth of July and a fun time was had by all.

Curtis Cooley, Jr

Today is the birthday of Curtis Cooley, Jr. I wish I had more information about Uncle Curtis' family. He married Creasy Southall and they had two sons; Leonard and Curtis Junior. The family moved from Des Moines to Detroit in the 1920's, where Uncle Curtis worked in a coal mine near the city. There was an accident in the mine and he was killed in 1929. Not long after the family soon drifted apart and all contact was lost. I have learned Curtis Junior married and had children and grandchildren of his own. My attempts to locate them have been unsuccessful, but I continue the search. On what would have been his 91st birthday, we honor/acknowledge the son of Curtis and Creasy (Southall) Cooley, the grandson of George and Mary (Washington) Cooley and the great-grandson of Lacy and Aggie Cooley. One day I KNOW I'll have more to write about this branch of our family tree. Keep hope alive y'all.

Bacon Bits Little Cousin (a.k.a Zoe-Zoe) Turns 9!!!

Remember one of the Cooley Cousins had a birthday yesterday? Today is her sister's birthday. The Cooley Cousin named, Zoe Elizabeth is turning nine years old today! Zoe knows how much I love bacon and has given me the nickname, "bacon bits." It works for Zoe only, so don't get any ideas. I won't answer and you'll look stupid. I love Zoe's smile, sense of humor, charm and love for her family. Those key elements will take her far in life - I claim it for her now. As you're getting older, I say hold on to those qualities and your life will be BRILLIANT in all ways for you. Happy Birthday Zoe. Much love to you today and everyday from ALL of your family.

Jessica's Turning Older...

Take a look at this Cooley Cousin. Today is this young lady's birthday. Yep, our Jessica is seventeen years old today. When Jess was a little girl she colored a picture for me. I was most impressed - she stayed within the lines and everything. I rarely throw things like that away. I still have it! As you turn another year better, my artistic cousin, may this day be as beautiful for you as you are to all of your family. Happy Birthday, Jessica with lots of love!!!

I've Got Some 'xplainin To Do...

On any given episode of "I Love Lucy," Ricky told Lucy to explain how she ended up in the situation she was in at the moment. Many times what happened was funny or was made funny by Lucy's explanation. I don't know how funny I'll be, but I'll give a run down of "what had happened" to bring you up to date.

You see, I was born by the river in a little tent. And just like the river I've been running ev'ry since. Oh wait, that's a Sam Cooke song. I'll focus. A lot has happened since my last post in April. Much has prevented my posting new stories or family history. Nothing bad, in fact life has been good. I've been BUSY! Between work and life outside of work; various events and travel - there's been little time for me to settle in and write. Writing is something I enjoy. I've stated several times the reason for this blog is to indulge the inner writer in me. Time to let that kat come to the surface and shine again.

Who knew two years ago this blog would take on the life it has? Though the original intent was for family to view it, family, friends and family friends became regular readers. To each one I want to say, "Thank you." Others showing an interest in what I've written inspires me to write more. Summer is here (and the time is right), so look for more posts. I've got some important dates to acknowledge, which I didn't in the past months. I'll make certain to get to it. Look out, Tim's back and he's got some pictures to share and stories to tell. There's more to come in the days ahead.

Much appreciation and love,

Tim

Happy Birthday Larry!!!

Happy Birthday Mr C - one of the COOLEST people I know

Snookie

Dennis Laurence
~Spring 1935~

When I saw this picture I remembered what Grandma said. "I wrapped up Snookie and put him in the wheelbarrow. He was a good baby, didn't fuss and I worked in my garden." She was speaking about her baby boy, Dennis.

Dennis Laurence
~Today~

It's a few years later and I don't believe "Baby Snooks" would fit in that same wheelbarrow. I may be wrong - what do I know???

Sunday's Finest

Palm Sunday

Cousin Anna Belle and family friend Josephine

The Baby Of The Family

Twenty-nine years ago today still stands out in my mind. I didn't go to school that day. I was allowed to stay home to await the news. This was long before cell phones were a common possession in our lives. I don't remember the exact time, but I do recall the phone ringing with the news. A new member of our family made his arrival - Baby Anthony. The title I held for almost sixteen years had been passed to someone else. "The baby of the family" was no longer me, it was my nephew. I was pretty excited about his arrival. I think I can say all of the family felt this way. I didn't see him in the hospital. Tony brought Paula and Anthony to Mom's house when they were released from the hospital. I thought he looked small. I know he weighed almost nine pounds when he was born, and many women would say that is NOT a small baby. What did I know? Judging by the size of Paula's belly, I thought he would have been bigger. I guess I didn't know much. One thing I did know - I had a new nephew and I was a new uncle and that was cool. I was pretty nervous the first time I held Anthony. I don't recall all the thoughts going through my mind, but I remember thinking one day he'll be a grown man. I looked at my nephew and smiled. Those are great memories. Here we are twenty-nine years later and he is a fully grown man. I am proud of the man he became. May there be much peace and an abundance of blessings as you turn another year better.
Happy Birthday Anthony!

Happy Anniversary Rob and Anita

Twelve years later and y'all are still smiling! That's a good thing. May you have many more great years together. Much love to you both!

Compared To What

I was feeling this song this morning and wanted to share it with you.

Eddie Harris and Les McCann - Compared To What

Our Miss Jean

Miss Jean
There are some people you like the moment you meet them. They are the type that possess a warm, welcoming spirit. You get the feeling you've known for as long as you can remember. That would describe Miss Jean to a tee. We clicked the moment after we were introduced. I will sum up the events of the eveing by stating, "A fun time was had by all." This would be attributed to Miss Jean's candid conversation and laughter. Miss Jean and Maria
A few years would pass before I had the chance to be in her company again. Much fun and a lot of laughs were on the agenda once again. "What number are you?" would be the title to one of the more hilarious question/answer/conversations at the last family reunion. Miss Jean was right there leading some of the family into uproarious laughter. Folks had tears in their eyes from laughing so hard. It's moments like that you cherish/treasure. I thought about those fun times when I learned Miss Jean died today. Though I am saddened to learn of this, I am thankful I had the chance to spend some time in her fun loving presence. Miss Jean was one in a million.

Happy Birthday, Marvin

Marvin Gaye

My previous trips to Los Angeles were fun, but always a little disappointing. I've enjoyed great times with my family and friends over the years. There was one thing I wanted to do for years and never did. I wanted to go to Marvin Gaye's house - simply to say I had been. I had the chance to go Marvin's house on my recent trip to L.A. UNRULEY and I had talked and thanks to the magic of GPS we were in front of Marvin's Gramercy Place house in no time.
I was suprised by the size of the house, for in my mind I thought it was smaller. In reality it was a rather large, at one time beautiful home. One of the first things I noticed as I walked around the house was the air. It was cool, crisp and fresh. It stood out against the otherwise warm Los Angeles afternoon.
Various things captured my eye and a second later it was a picture. I took this from the side of the house. This rear view was the first picture I took of the house. Going with the flow of the moment I walked and snapped pictures.
It took a few years but I finally had the chance to drop by the house and say, "Hey Marvin." This was the only blooming flower I could see on the entire property.


Happy Birthday, Marvin. Thank you for the incredible music you gave us.

WARNING - Look At This Cute Kid

This Baby Cooley Cousin is such a little cutey. Each time I look at this new picture of Neveah Grace I smile. She has such a happy disposition in her pictures. It makes you feel good looking at them. Then again, what person doesn't like a baby?

Go Vicki, It's Your Birthday!

Young Vicki
The little girl in this picture is all grown up and goes by the name of "My Mom." Today is her birthday and I spent part of my day with her. We did a lot of talking, laughing and sharing stories. I must say a fun time was had by all. I know I'm her favorite child, but I won't tell the others about this.


Happy Birthday Mom!

An Observation On The Bus

Why was Luella Robinson's grandbaby, Boo-Boo (goes by MANE1UP now) all stretched out on the bus Tuesday morning, like he was at home on the sofa just chillin??? I mean, what's really going on here?

p.s. I have no idea if this young man's grandmama is Luella Robinson, but someone needs to come and fix this mess a.s.a.p.

I'm Trying...

It takes me a lot longer to type anything and for good reason; I'm recovering. Last week I had minor surgery on my right wrist. All is going well and I will be back to my healthy self soon. I wanted to write more with the posts I have, but it's not been easy typing with one hand. I think all of this is teaching me to be more patient.

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy Birthday, María Elena!!!

Much love to you, NORFDAKOTAH Cooley Cousin!