All Souls Day - Religious/General

For those of you who don't know, I AM a practicing Catholic. For all you haters on the Catholic faith, this post isn't for you and as I am respectful of all other Christian denominations (especially after dating so many outside of the Catholic Church) I kindly ask that you. respect my beliefs as I've done for all others. 

Now onto to what this post is about...You see we recently had two important celebrations this past week. All Saints Day and All Souls Day and for those of you who don't know, yes there is a difference between the two holidays. I love how simply the jesuit website puts it 

(https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/resources-by-theme/all-saints-all-souls#:~:text=All%20Saints%27%20Day%20is%20celebrated,have%20passed%20within%20the%20faith.): "All Saints Day is celebrated to remember all saints and martyrs during Christian history, followed by All Souls Day to commemorate those who have passed on within the faith."

All Souls Day is a holy day set aside for honoring the dead. The day is primarily celebrated in the Catholic Church, but it is also celebrated in the Eastern Orthodox Church and a few other denominations of Christianity. The Anglican church is the largest protestant church to celebrate the holy day. Most protestant denominations do not recognize the holiday and disagree with the theology behind it. According to Catholic belief, the soul of a person who dies can go to one of three places. The first is heaven, where a person who dies in a state of perfect grace and communion with God goes. The second is hell, where those who die in a state of mortal sin are naturally condemned by their choice. The intermediate option is purgatory, which is thought to be where most people, free of mortal sin, but still in a state of lesser (venial) sin, must go. https://www.catholic.org/saints/allsouls/

This is all not to be confused or associated with Dia de los metros aka The Day of the Dead, something I think Americans have re-created into academia and the Disney movie Coco that this "holiday" originated in Mexico, something that is inaccurate - well at least somewhat. You see there are certain states in Mexico that have and celebrate this holiday but it's not something that's technically "Mexican made" so to say. Other Latin American cultures not just Mexican celebrate this holiday as well. I have a theory but considering that there are many "historians" or those who educate themselves on cultures and traditions, they could argue or refute my personal theory...but lets be frank, the fact is unless you submerge yourself into the culture and have lived it and breathed it for years or more importantly been exposed to the oldest of towns in Mexico you really won't get the facts behind which states in Mexico started celebrating the Day of the Dead, because believe me the family I still have in Mexico and even family friends from my parents that have had generations upon generations living in Mexico DO NOT celebrate nor have they ever understood how people claimed to to state that the Day of the Dead originated in Mexico.

Guess this is something I'm going to want to look into and find out more about...but hey don't take my word for it and do some digging of your own ;) 

For all my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ - hope you had a fun Halloween, a serene Saints Day, and a memorable All Souls Day.

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman 

Thunderstorms - General

How many of you are afraid of thunderstorms? Now how many of you love thunderstorms? I don't know about you but there's something mesmerizing when the storm clouds roll in and form, the colors begin to change, cloud forms begin to take shape and some of them massive beyond the view of the eye...then there's the overall temperature changes, the wind levels, perhaps the shadowing of the day or the deep darkening of the already night sky. There's just so many things to be fascinated over when it comes to thunderstorms. Honestly how can anyone NOT enjoy them?...

Guess I'm one of those idiots or weirdos that love the thunderstorms. Everywhere I've ever lived I've been fortunate and had the luxury to make sure there is a nice enough patio, balcony, terrace, or outdoor sitting area that I can enjoy the storms as they roll in or even better, to watch as the storms eyes is on top of my location...either way, outside is where I prefer to be when it comes to thunderstorms. No I'm not crazy saying I'm some sort of storm chaser BUT I do thoroughly enjoy trying to capture the lighting flashes as they occur. Over the years I've managed to take decent ones on my iPhones with very few on my good camera, lets face it my iPhone is more easily accessible and my professional Canon Camera is HEAVY and bulky as f*** to carry around all the time. For example the image below is from an older iPhone model just as I was lowering the back seat window. I remember it so vividly! The lightning struck really close to my location and as this was at the feeder road overpass intersection above where Highway 635 and the NTTA intersect in Dallas, that nice incline provided me a good angle for this surprise shot I didn't think I could manage to capture.

The image below is from the terrace of the house my family and I used to live in (pre having my kids). That house was pretty awesome because the terrace allowed one to have a full 360 view so no matter which direction the storm was coming from at that house one would always be able to see it forming, growing, and in which direction it was coming from and especially if it was just passing through in a neighboring city around us. The picture was taken from yet again another iPhone but definitely a newer version than iPhone used in the image above.

This last image on this post, was also taken from an iPhone and it was while traveling southbound on highway 75. I remember this storm was traveling south so driving into work was a fascinating drive because as you're facing south into the Dallas area, the north sky was pitch black and continuing to darken. 

Actually, I not only enjoy watching a storm pass by but have no problem/issue driving in a storm, regardless of the type of storm. Over the years it doesn't matter what vehicle I'm in, I trust in my abilities and driving methods BECAUSE of the circumstances surrounding when and where I've driven. I will say though that I do try to at least be knowledgeable and trust the vehicle that I'm driving. Typically it's always mine, but if I'm ever driving someone's else's especially in a storm, its because I've driven it enough or I'm aware of that make and model to trust the capacity in the storm-regardless of the dumbass drivers around me. Perfect example would be my driving in 2018 through the hurricane storm that was already inland on the east coast of the nation. Granted the magnitude of the force and storm itself was nothing compared to when it touched the coast but my goodness I've been in and through some serious storms, but THAT one truly takes the cake on testing my driving instincts, muscles, and mental focus.

So you got it! I'm the unique weirdo who loves storms so much to be driving in them (cautiously), watch them pass by, or even take pictures of them. Although as exciting and as interesting as everything I've explained is to me...the best part I think for storms is when you're lying in bed as they pass by. The pitter patter or even when the storm is roaring outside, truly is soothing and a different level of appreciation. If you're married/have a significant other/living with someone having sex during a storm is another level of heightened senses and body reaction too I might add...if you haven't tried it-DO IT! Then again "making love" with the right person that you love is always supposed to be phenomenal - so add on a storm and explosiveness! 😋 just saying...

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman 

Jessie Ware - General

I know I wrote about another music artist recently, a Mr Matt Nathanson. Even though he's wonderful this gal takes my heart and body when it comes to her music and rhythm! Ironically too, both these artists my sister found sine they weren't mainstream music artists, so she exposed me to a few of their songs. Jessie Ware I was enlightened by her music around early 2013, so it was pretty cool that my sister had found also a down to earth venue where Jessie Ware would be performing. To say that there was no seats anywhere for you to enjoy the concert, should explain it all...she was doing well working on expanding her name and music so the venue wasn't some known establishment and though in Dallas, not in the best of areas.

Jessie Ware is one artist I almost have all her sings on my playlist and her music can be both soothing and calming where others are upbeat and just a feel good song. She is another rare artist where she sounds in person like her albums. She's not a very theatrical artist when it comes to performing her music but you still won't be disappointed. 

These are three of my favorite songs from her song history:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u03f5Wnwff0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLIESvLSDKA&list=OLAK5uy_kwnL5gCyQ6OLq9k7QgozgaLiwa6OHflaA&index=5

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAMM8JVbr8g

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman 

Matt Nathanson - General

I was going through some digital photo albums and came across something that was both memorable and something I haven't been to again in a while. For anyone who knows me, aside from my kids there are exactly five other things that I can not live without! One of them is music!

I don't know about you but music isn't just a source of entertainment, I feel that depending on life circumstances it can give you an out of body experience or even sometimes is the only way you or someone can express through a specific song how they're feeling. For example, heart break or feeling lonesome I'm sure many of you have that go to song on a playlist or that comes on the radio and just allows you the feeling of expression. Or maybe you're going through some struggles in a romantic relationship, the right love song can sometimes mend the emotions or a guy can end up dedicating a song that reminds him of that special someone. Regardless of the reason or life circumstance, music gives way to emotions.

So this post is about Matt Nathanson. I must admit that I haven't seen or come across any of his new stuff (should he have anything out there) but I always remember fondly the "Come Get Higher" album he released years ago! Definitely before even my kids were a thought probably! I remember it well...It was at the House of Blues in the Downtown Dallas area. A venue big enough for events and music concerts but small enough that you don't get annoyed and can actually have good seats while enjoying a performance. As a performer, Matt is one of the rare artists who actually sounds in person like he does in his albums, so his performance overall on his music was wonderful to hear! I wasn't disappointed. 

Matt as a performer in general, I was thoroughly surprised when he allowed for a meet and greet after his show. He's super down to earth and was very sweet in person. Didn't once come off as a douche or cocky and was even nice enough to carry conversations with those he met. You could see his bodyguard close by but it was some sort of deterrent or Matt himself didn't seem phased by it and carried himself comfortably so that anyone around was also as ease. My sister and I ended up getting his autograph and our pictures taken. It was fun.

Here is just one of the songs I love the most from him...enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHx4BlF6V2o

Sincerely,

A Distant Woman 

Flemings - Restaurant Review

If you are wanting a delicious experience, great environment, nice ambiance, a feeling like a million bucks, great service, and the ability to try it anywhere in the nation this is a restaurant for you. They label themselves as a steakhouse and wine bar, however at the location we've gone to and enjoyed I honestly have enjoyed more their seafood dishes more! My personal review of this establishment is based off of the location in Plano, TX in the Shops of Legacy area; so I don't know about the other locations around the nation, I can only speak on behalf of this one.

The first time I went was with my sister for her birthday and we had my oldest (who was very little walking at the time) and I was already pregnant with my youngest. It was the Christmas season and the lobby entrance of the restaurant was beautifully decorated. Not only at this first visit but all others thereafter they always have a nice display for selfies and any group photos that may be desired to be taken; honestly a cool setup they have for before and/or after your meal. Moving on! So I'm not being biased by my oldest has always been well behaved and I make sure she's not one of those snot nosed brats running all around the table or restaurant with parents that always like to say "oh they're just kids being kids!" Needless to say even my knowing how well behaved my kiddo was I was still self conscious because a place that looked this nice made me wonder how the environment and ambiance was going to be, at least towards my kids. The world is cruel and likes to generalize so I was dreading how they might treat us thinking that my kid was like all the other snot nosed kids of the world...The waiter was so patient and even tried carrying conversation with my oldest (who really was just starting to use complete words), truly a calm and delicious meal!

With how lovely the entire evening was of course we returned! We've now gone about five times now and let me tell you! The consistency of their food prep, cooking, and meals are impressionable. Their flavors and menu items are all deliciously satisfying and an experience in themselves. Family members of mine have ordered some of their steak menu items but as I mentioned earlier, I have continually been deliciously satisfied and impressed with their seafood items! Below are the pictures of the items that are my favorites! 😁

I can't express enough how delicious this place is, but don't take my word for it and try it yourself! 😉 whether for an intimate dinner for two, traveling or work and wanting to eat at their bar lounge area, or a special family dinner - they won't disappoint https://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations#location-overlay

Here we have the crab cakes as an appetizer:

The next three images are of their seafood tower, mouthwatering delicious and oh so fresh!

This is my personal favorite as an entree, their chilean sea bass!

Their chocolate lava cake

Their cream brûlée

 

Let me tell you that I have been happily pleased and impressed with how phenomenal the staff is from the hostess down to the busboys! Hands down a 5-star feel with reasonable prices for the quality of food and all of their menu items from appetizers and drinks to their desserts and after drinks. More importantly, they are always wonderful, patient, and understanding of my little kiddos every time I bring them in. So to all at the Plano, TX location a HUGE thank you for how you have treated myself and my family at your establishment! Continue that wonderful feel and service! 

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman 

WTF are you grunting!?! - General

Ok I have to talk about this because it’s been YEARS overdue to just vent about 😋 I’ve dated all the military branches except the national guard and even without having dated one of them I’m pretty sure what I’m about to say still rings true…I think working out today just pushed me over the edge! 🤦🏻‍♀️

Whether male or female (but this is mostly about the men) why the hell are you grunting so loud while you’re using weights or a machine at the gym?! Like seriously!?! Is that obnoxious noise supposed to propel you to lift the weight higher or does it somehow magically give you an unknown energy to last longer or to complete the rep that you’re doing? Please I sincerely ask because it’s obnoxious as shit AND unless you’re having sex with someone out on the open floor of the gym, can you leave those grunts in your bedroom or wherever the hell you have sex. 

(Image above not mine-found just googling “working out grunt”)

I mean not even the military men going through boot camp, BUDs, routine PT, or even extensive special op training do these men in the military branches grunt when working out. This seems to be a habit among men who either want the attention or eyes to be directed at them (even if briefly), or the body builders who want just the attention on their bodies, or the dumbass empty headed gym rats who think a woman hears the grunt and I guess magically wants to jump them 😂 I don’t know but someone male please explain this! 

Even when I visit my best friend who is a fireman, I dont even hear those guys doing some dumbass annoying grunt noise! And some of those men are in delicious shape! 

So please someone either explain or please to us a favor and help us shut up the grunters intruding in our working out time! Is it just me or does it not annoy anyone else?!…

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman

Creamistry - Dessert Review

If you're looking for some delicious cold desserts at a kid friendly spot and also with the establishment being at a kid friendly location where you can peruse the area, walk around, or let your children loose than this is the place for you!

Creamistry in Irving/Dallas Texas is ideal in its ice cream creations but in the fact that ice cream looks to be an actual art here. Between heir flavors and their textures and toppings you really can't go wrong with anything you select here and it's SO delicious. 

Where thy are located is in a place that can somewhat of a hassle to find parking but once you have, the rest of the time there you can easily walk around while enjoying the dessert or seat yourself inside or outside their shop. If you sit outside in their provided table tops then your kids can easily just venture within your sights, perhaps before you all make it into a walking exploration of the area.

So whether you're just along for the ride or going to enjoy something delicious for your taste buds, this is a spot for you to try!

Sincerely,

A Distinct Woman