Holiday Fun!

Hey everybody!
Just wanted to say thanks for stopping by our Holiday Party, we had a great time! We look forward to a prosperous, safe and blessed New Years.

ps
If you know of any New Years Eve parties, we are loads of fun.........hahahah!

Love
The Pookalitas

Happy Holidays!

Too nice for your own good!

The names in this story have been changed to protect the innocent.

Recently a friend of mine "Pam" I'll call her, told me about a date she went on over the weekend. Now " Pam " is an intelligent, beautiful woman who has a great job, her own home and two nice sons. She doesn't need a man to take care of her, she just wants someone to possibly share her life with. So in her search for companionship she decides to try on-line dating. She joins Orange people meet.com and proceeds to meet people...................................................now this is where it gets interesting! She meets this guy (we'll call him Stan)who seems like a nice guy (don't they all seem nice in the beginning?) they converse on line for a while then decided to go on a date.
It all seems so innocent doesn't it? Okay so "Pam" agrees to meet "Stan" at his house and he would drive from there. Well "Pam" gets to "Stan's" house and he comes outside to her car and she's like " Oh this must be his dad or older brother............WRONG it was Stan who was looking way older than his picture on-line. He proceeds to tell her that his car was totaled yesterday (TOTALED YESTERDAY? and Your NOT HURT?) and he can't drive so can she? While "Pam" is trying to wrap her mind around the fact that this guy IS old enough to be her father he jumps in the car and proceeds to tell her how to get to the restaurant. Well all the while he's talking up a storm about how beautiful she is, she's too beautiful for him ( always run from anyone who tells you that) Blah blah blah......finally he's like here we are "Pm" looks and she's like " You've got to be kidding!" they are at Whole Foods! Yes Whole Foods the grocery store, the supermarket, the place where you buy food to cook and eat. "Okay " she thinks to herself, Maybe he is going to buy dinner and take it back to his place". (we are always thinking the best of people.) They go in and he grabs a cart and starts shopping. Yep SHOPPING !!!!
he took a list out of his pocket and starts moving down the aisle throwing stuff in. My sister girl "Pam" is in shock! He must be making dinner for me." she thinks. So she just stands there unable to breath or say anything. He finishes up and they leave, she DRIVES him back to his place and he asks her if she wants to come upstairs for a snack, as he holds up a potato chip bag. A SNACK!!!! This is after he purchased two cooked chickens, sides and other things. (at this point I am laying on the floor rolled up into a ball crying!!!) She politely says, " No thank you." and peals off into the night. I mean if he needed some food, why didn't he call Meals on Wheels? I can't even call this? What is going on? I'm afraid, very afraid!!!!!

Return of the 2Fer Sale! Nov. 28-29

My Favorite Holiday

For many people, Christmas is looked upon as their favorite holiday.not me. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving to me is my Carte Blanche card to eat until my heart's content! Every year I look forward to my favorite meal - turkey, dressing, and cranberry sauce. In addition to that, I can't wait for the hot buttered rolls, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato pie, collard greens, and string beans. During the first 10 months of the year, I try to maintain a healthy diet. I rarely eat any of these dishes but when Thanksgiving rolls around - all diets and healthy eating are off; no organic items; for me; and I'll pass on the sugar-free or low sugar deserts. I want what I've been waiting for all year long and that's the traditional Thanksgiving dinner! That to me is what Thanksgiving is all about; notwithstanding, the time to spend with your family and friends. J So Pooka family, if you see me at the warehouse carrying an extra couple of pounds after Thanksgiving, know that I put on those pounds with a smile on my face and a turkey leg in my hand. Enjoy the holidays!javascript:void(0)
Save Now

Another Beauty Bailout!

What do I do now!

Okay, most of you know how much I was into the campaign and elction. I feel like I played a small part in the election of our First African American president. I talked about it, blogged about it, I sent some cash, I even made phone calls to undecided voters in PA and now I find myself with a lot of free time! Don’t get me wrong I am still on an Obama high but there is no need to rush home and watch MSNBC or CNN, no more throwing around my political knowledge, staying up late to watch SNL or anything!
It kind of feels like (what I would imagine) the day after a wedding! A year of planning and then when the day is over, now what? A lot of folks have been feeling the same way not realizing just how much time they had invested this past year and a half. I need a new cause! Anybody have anything in mind?

Yes WE can!!!!!

Greetings Family! I am still in another atmosphere due to President Elect Barack Obama!!! I am so filled with pride and joy to be able to see this in my lifetime. We are truly part of history. The first African American president of the United States!!! Every time I say it I am truly overwhelmed and sometimes led to tears due to this most awesome event. I truly believe that this is something bigger than Barack and that he is truly a messenger sent when he was needed. I will not continue that sermon though and will save that for another blog. I do want to say that part of this legacy is us. That’s right, you and me. A large part of Barack Obama’s message is about hope and about change from the bottom up as he has said over and over again. With all of the history in the making and all the excitement I hope that people really get that. We are already seeing the naysayers waiting to see what Barack will do. How will he save us they ask?? When he becomes President all will be right with the world!! We all need to know that a large part of the change has to come from us. There will be no quick fixes. This is going to be a journey that Barack has started but that WE must follow. That whole grass roots movement that made this the most successful presidential campaign ever must continue. OUR work has just begun. Now is not the time to sit back to see what Barack Obama will do but to look into the mirror to ask ourselves what will WE do as our part in this world plan. Yes WE can family! Yes WE can!!! I dare you!!!

Donna

Question?

These are tough times and it’s hard for small businesses and pretty much everybody to keep it going. I was posed with the question, what is going to make people buy from Pooka instead of major chains like The body Shop or Bath and body works? I figured this is a perfect question to pose to our Pooka blog readers. Now it’s time to get a cup of green tea and soak those toes in a Pooka foot fizzy and really think about it! We’d love to hear from you. What things can we do better to compete with these big chains? Maybe we can come up with something that will help us and you! I’m sure you’ll have great ideas so we’ll post some of them to the blog and get feedback from everyone.

Thanks family!

A Rock Stars Halloween!

Hey Family,
Although we choose to celebrate a "Harvest" instead of Halloween, the kiddies still like to dress up! You probably all remember 2 1/2 year old Wesley who told us who the next president was going to be, well here he is as "Rock Star!" This is hilarious!


UNFORTUNATELY THIS IS HOW THE NIGHT ENDED UP FOR ROCK STAR............

Dad's Stump Speech!

Just sharing for all of the folks out there, you can’t stretch your gas tank.
Yesterday after a wonderful church service, I figured I would sneak out before the end to beat the rush. I ran to my car and started it up. Sputter, sputter , dead…………. Okay, I’m wracking my brain, wondering what happened even as the glaring check gage light is blinking, It can’t be that, I thought. My father is going to kill me, his childrens stump speech consists of #1. Stop going to the ATM 10 times a day keep some cash with you, #2. The ever popular “Bump and Run”, if someone hits your car at night and you’re suspicious keep going until you get to a safe spot and………….#3. Don’t let the tank get down to E! Great, I have violated life rule #3! I have to admit that the check gage light was on the night before, but in these hard economic times I’ve learned to judge exactly how long I can survive on E before pulling into the station. Unfortunately for me as I was told by the AAA guy, when you have a Ford and park on an incline it won’t start on low gas! That wasn’t in my manual! I was also informed by my(or should I say Tricia’s) AAA guy that If I had started the car and coasted down the hill the engine would have caught and I would have made it to a gas station. IS HE KIDDING! Now on top of everything I’m going to coast down a hill and pray that it starts, um………….no thanks. Well he gave me some gas and I drove sheepishly to the gas station, but when I got there I realized I had no cash, violating dad’s stump speech #1, so I decided to use my ATM card at the pump, which violated stump speech #4, don’t use your card at the pump anyone can get your number!. So folks if you ever see me rolling through an intersection, trying to coast to a gas station just pray for me! To add insult to injury now Donna and Lance are getting me my own AAA card for Christmas, yuck, I wanted some new boots!

Is it wrong to think................

Hi folks, just had a question! You know me and politics, I've been a political junkie. I've been informed, reading and watching everything. I have spent the last 15 months making sure people took me seriously as a political pundant. This is why after all that I've been saying, I want to know if it's wrong to think our possible new president Barack Obama is.............HOT! Okay, okay I know it's not politically correct to think that your president is a hottie but I can't help it! It's not just his looks, its the way he looks at his wife, his swagger and confidence, his depth of knowledge all rolled up into a nice neat package. I'm sorry if this offends some and I hope that I will be allowed to keep my political card, but I just had to say it. hmmmmm.............I wonder if he has a single brother! hahahah!

Pooka Pink Day!

My Most Important Blog of the Year

Hey Pooka Family! This is my most important blog of the year! Today is the last day in the state of New Jersey to register to vote. Please, please, please if you have not registered click on http://www.njelections.org/index.html . Here you will be able to download the form to complete and mail it today. Remember, it must be postmarked today! Also, if you are going to be out of the state on the day of the election you can complete an absentee ballot so that you can mail in your vote. You can access the absentee ballot from this same site.

Please family..it is so important for each of us to take a stand and this is one sure fire way to do it! As my Grandpa used to say, "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything." Let's take a stand and vote!

When did I turn into my mother?

Growing up as little kids our mothers were always there for us, trying to make sure we were doing the things we were supposed to do. "Be polite, Be quiet, smile, wear your earrings (for those of us without a lot of hair :) make sure your clothes are neat etc. the list goes on and on..........................I always thought when I grow up I'm gonna do what I want to do and mommy can't tell me otherwise! (Because we thought we knew more than they did of course) Well for many a year after being out on my own and doing what I wanted to do, I had kids. I have now officially turned into my mother. "Clean your room, it’s a pigsty (no lipstick involved)", You eat all of those lima beans on your plate, there are children starving all over the world" (it was and still is a fact). What’s wrong with your sneakers from last year, they don't have any holes in them!". " No you can't stay up late because you never want to get up in the morning.", and my old time favorite, "BECAUSE I SAID SO!!!!!!!”. I didn't know if anything I was saying was actually working until William told his Auntie Dawn that mommy was mean, "she won't let me do anything." now that made me smile. My Mommy is so proud of me!!!!

FREE GAS AND GROCERIES THIS SATURDAY AT POOKA!

Okay people you can't beat that! Free gas and groceries this weekend at Pooka! Drop by the Pooka warehouse this Saturday and with every Pooka purchase your name will go into a raffle to win gas cards and grocery cards! The drawing will be at 2:00, if you are out of town call in on our toll free number, 1-866-245-1403 and place an order and your name will be entered. If you win we will mail you your prize!

Between the Olympics and the Presidential Race…..I need a Nap!!!

Greetings Family!
Well I am writing this entry on the first official day of fall. Can you believe it! My lovely summer has come to an end just when I needed to recline on my patio one last time. Just when I need a nap the most. I already feel (like most of us) that I am always playing beat the clock. Family I am not winning!! Just when I couldn’t add one more thing to my plate it was time for the Olympics. I ate right, exercised and got myself in the best shape possible. After the opening ceremony I was ready. I played volleyball, I did gymnastics, I swam with Michael Phelps and I ran with Usain Bolt. I was in it people….every night until the closing ceremony! Now I must mention that I took a break from politics to attend the Olympics but was immediately called back by my party. They needed me! I was back to debating, back to refuting or supporting political analysis given by everyone and their mother. I marched, I rallied, I made phone calls, I helped register people to vote and still have a long way to go. We are getting ready for our first debate with the candidates and I have to be ready people. I could be called at the last minute to give my expert opinion. I have never lived and breathed an election as I have this one. I am part of history in the making and I never forget that. So I just have to take some extra vitamins to get myself together. No time for naps now!! We have an election to win! Well….I have to cut this short. I think that is CNN calling on my cell!
Donna

Happy Anniversary!

Well everyone it's time to celebrate!!! It's been almost 8 years since Pooka has opened it's doors. What a blessing! This weekend was the annual PNC Arts Festival, which is the very first festival we ever did. This is where we realized that "We had a business!" It was so great to see all of you there. We saw so many friends that we've gotten to know over the years it was wonderful. Everyone loved our new Bath Pastries and they were so happy that we had new products. All in all it was a great day and we would all just like to say "thanks" for supporting us and we hope to be around another 8 years!

Love the Pookalitas

My Oasis….2008!

Greetings Family!

Is anyone as sad as me that summer is coming to an end? Yes, I said coming, because I am still wearing my flip flops. Once I pack those up then summer is officially over. Summer is truly my favorite. I like the sweater weather, leaves falling season…and of course the holidays. There is just something about summer though. Less fuss, less clothing, eating outside (you knew I was throwing that in!!) Just more relaxed. Oh well…..until next year. I wanted to let you know how my Oasis closed out for the season. I will say that it was a hit! Remember the furniture from the porch….moved to the back yard to add to the existing patio set up and it completely changed the Oasis! We had a few soirées and even lit our fire pit at night. Quite comfy cozy!! There is still so much to be done…still need more landscaping, outdoor couches with matching pillows and I didn’t get my lights. But...I will be shopping for those in the off season. I actually have a list and next year I may have to charge to get into the Oasis!! I am trying to get hubby to have one or two more cookouts while the weather is still warm but he doesn’t seem to be going for it. We are still recouping from the last event. He thinks we need to start thinking about packing in our Oasis. Can anyone say football season!! Hmmmmm....maybe if I move the tv to the Oasis. Bye summer….I will miss you most!
Donna

Eggs and Apple..........head.

My friend whom I affectionately call "Applehead" frequently calls me with questions about cooking. You see, Applehead is good at many things, but cooking isn't one of them! Her typical cooking questions are whether or not something is still fresh and okay to cook or eat or what pan should she broil chicken in or how long should she cook something. Well, I posted this blog to address one of her questions. This one's just for you Applehead..
Here's a handy way to tell whether the eggs in your refrigerator are still fresh:

Place an egg at the bottom of a glass full of water and watch what happens:
•If the egg lies at the bottom on its side, it's fresh.
•If the egg sinks, but with one end up, it's getting old but is still edible.
•If the egg floats at all, you should buy some fresh ones.

This test is effective because eggshells are porous - over time they dry out, letting air in and moisture out. If you prefer using egg whites, then save some time and money by buying eggs in bulk and separating them right away. Egg whites freeze very well and can even be kept for up to three or four days, covered, in the refrigerator

It's a Party!!!!

Join us for some Pooka fun!
This Saturday, September 6
at the Pooka Warehouse!
10:00am-2:00pm

364 Glenwood Avenue
East Orange, NJ 07107
973-954-2471

Out of Town? Don't miss out on the fun! Call in between the hours of 10:00am-2:00pm and receive 10% and a free sample of our new Bath Pastries!

Mission Accomplished?

Well this is a monumental and historical week! All of my ranting and ravings of being a political expert has paid off! We have our first African American nominated for the Presidency of the United States. As I’ve watched every minute of the convention, I realized that this is true reality TV. I wonder how many of our youth have even flipped the channel to the convention. When I look back at the “struggle” I wonder If our youth will ever know what we went through as a people. Now don’t’ get me wrong, I’m not that old! I wasn’t friends with Harriet Tubman and I didn’t march with King, so I understand that a lot of what I know about our fight for racial equality has been read in books. The goal has always been to struggle and strive to make things better for the next generation. The question is, how do you make things better but also make sure they understand what it took to get here. I was talking to a young woman and although she was impressed with the election she wasn’t amazed, excited and as overjoyed as I was. I realized that when she was born we already had African American Mayors, Senators and Congress members and was very, very young when we had our first elected Governor, we had an African American woman and man as Secretary of Sate, so this next step of having an African American President didn’t seem that foreign to her. She had never been denied a job due to her race (that she knew of) and seemed to think the country was pretty much done with racism. Now she did agree that racial profiling and problems with the law did exist for African Americans, but that was only in certain areas she said. Since in her mind race was not a factor, she had pondered voting for Hillary, because she felt that she faced more closed doors being a woman than being African American. Martin Luther King is moving further and further away from our youth and eventually he’ll be some guy in their Social Studies book. But that’s what we wanted right? For our children to never have to suffer due to their race. The goal was always to make it better, but by accomplishing this goal will they understand and respect how we got here? It’s not just them, we’re all further removed from the experiences that our parents and grandparents went through, it’s a natural progression. So I guess we can say mission accomplished? …………right?

S.O.S (Save Our Sanity!)

I was reading the news the other day and I ran across an article that stated because of the state of the economy there are some school districts that are cutting down to four days a week. Making the school week Tuesday thru Friday. What!!!! The parents in this particular town didn't seem to mind it too much seeing that most of them are self-employed with jobs in farming or construction. Well I can't imagine having to stay home one more day with my kids! Don't get me wrong, you know I love them................................. but sometimes the only way I don't lose my mind IS to go to work! I mean what are we going to do on monday? Never mind that you would be missing a day's pay in your check, now you have to entertain them all day like its saturday or sunday. Think about it, you do all your house work on saturday cleaning, washing, taking care of your personal business. After all the work is done you might go to the mall, catch a movie, ya know just relax and hang out. Sunday comes you go to church, cook dinner, iron all the clothes you've washed on saturday, maybe go to the park, relax for the rest of the day and get ready for the work week. Now if we're not going anywhere on MONDAY what are we supposed to do? We've done all of our work, we've played all we can play and now we have an extra day to do all of that again? I say NO I don't care how much it cost! You send those kids to school! What is the government trying to do, make parents go crazy! If the government doesn't want parents marching, fighting and looting in the streets you will keep the schools open! S.O.S Save Our Sanity! I'd even pay extra if they could go on saturday for a few hours!

Black in America

Hey Pooka Family! Hope all is well and everyone is enjoying their summer!
Did anybody see the CNN special, "Black in America" which aired July 23 & 24th? I'm curious as to what other people thought about it? I watched a little of both segments (the Black Woman and the Black Man) and to be quite honest, I was a little disappointed with the program. I guess I expected more.more insight to the psychological and socio-economic factors that drive some people to prosperity and others to a lack of goals and aspirations. Also, I expected the program to provide more information, more analysis, and more diverse perspectives on the issue. I thought the program fell short by only touching on aspects of race, prosperity and poverty of which we already know i.e. the aspects that are intuitive and consistently spun in the media.

What do you think?

Fibroids and a Foodie???

Greetings Pooka Family!

It is again that time of sharing. You all know that I am President of the Foodie Nation. You may not know however that I have been a long time fibroid sufferer. This is a problem that unfortunately plagues African American women in very high numbers. I personally know several “sisters of the roid” as I affectionately call us. It is a very real issue that can range from annoyance to severe pain. I actually got to the point which required surgery for their removal. By my research there are several factors which can lead to fibroids some hereditary, but diet and exercise definitely play a key role. African American woman tend to have a diet high in salt and fat and may not exercise as often as we should. I unfortunately still suffer from fibroids but I need to make life style changes to avoid another surgery. Fibroids and a Foodie….can these two things coexist?? Fibroid growth has been linked to increases in estrogen in the body. The key is to limit your diet with estrogen free foods. A fibroid free diet should contain NO dairy, NO meat especially red and limited sugar. It should be low in fat and high in fiber! Well…what is a foodie supposed to eat! Did anyone see the cover of the latest Cooking Light magazine with the pan size puffed apple pancake. It made me cry!!! Now foods that help are lots of fresh fruits and veggies, (no problem, love those) nuts (good protein source), seafood, (ok, my favorite) fresh juices in moderation, flax-can put on my oatmeal. Ok all good but is anyone else bored by this list or is it just me?? To have good health is to have everything and I know this all to well. So therefore family I am going to have to work this out. I am going to have to update my recipe repertoire to take into consideration my health goals. I will become a regular at Whole Foods because there are many healthy alternatives and natural foods that I can eat (as my sister Dawn tells me everyday!!) I definitely have to get it moving with exercise for the body and yoga for the mind. I will do this family because I have to. I will be a Foodie with a Fibroid!! So send me your support and any tips and recipes that you would like to share. I would also love to hear from any other sisters of the roid. We can do this!!

Donna

My own little oasis! (yes Donna, I have one too!)

Well everyone I have discovered my local, neighborhood Pool! I AM AMAZED!! I had such a stigma about public pools, but I was told to try the one in my new neighborhood and can I tell you, FAB-U-LOUS!! You know I have to share my experience with you. I went and got my pool pass and decided the next day I was going to the Pool (that was probably the day you called and Pooka was closed!). I decided to put on my bathing suit and go to the pool by myself. Now first of all I haven’t had on my bathing suit in a while and it was not………CUTE! I used to wear a nice 2 piece but now I’ve moved into the 2 piece with the little skirt on the bottom! But so what, I packed my sunscreen, towel, ipod, magazine, water, snacks, sunglasses, phone(If I needed to bring all that stuff I should have stayed home!) When I got to the pool and dragged my suitcase in I was amazed! It was so nice, 3 pools, picnic area, beach chairs, concession stand, I thought I was in the Bahamas. It was so liberating setting up shop for the day and just relax. The best part was the summer pass was only $20! What was even better was I could bring guests for only $5 a day! Now you know me I had to tell everyone about my little nirvana and the words “You should come to my pool….” will forever haunt me! That’s when the “VISITS” began. I have become a local tour guide for my pool. I now have a schedule by my bed of who is coming to the pool and what time. I get many calls about what slots are available. I now wear a uniform, similar to a bus driver when I drop my groups off at the pool. I’ve even purchased a whistle for when my groups get a little disorderly. Last week my parents and aunts and uncle came for pool day and we had such a nice time. Since then, sometimes when I look into the crowd, I see them sitting in the corner with shades on! “How did they get in without me?” I wonder. They pretend not to see me but I know it’s them! And you know I get the very frequent, Auntie Dawn can we go back to the pool? (hhmmmmmmmmmm………..I remember seafood night kid!) So now my summer nirvana has changed, I wish I would have known I could have gotten a job at the pool and got paid! The lesson here, we have to start taking advantage of things that are available to us, you never know you may find your own little Bahamas!(just make sure you get a one way ticket! hahahaha)

Return of the 2Fer Sale! This Saturday!

Is Five A Day Enough?

Hey Pooka Family, sharing an email that can keep us all on a good nutritional path. Enjoy!

Most of us are familiar with the 5 A Day message when it comes to
eating fruits and vegetables. But is this really enough? Maybe, if
your only goal is to meet your basic nutritional needs. If you are more
interested in disease prevention, longevity and a healthy appearance,
try aiming for eight to 10 servings a day. If you are getting your
five a day, good job! Now consider going for great with eight or more
servings.

Shopping with a Cause

Hi Family!

I recently came across a great site that I wanted to share. We girls of course love shopping and especially shopping for pocketbooks! Please check out www.madimports.net. This company was founded and run by two women who are socially and environmentally responsible. Their accessories come from Kenya and Madagascar. They fund education programs and support the women of Kenya with community development. Please check out their site to read all about. They have some really cute bags and totes that are especially great for summer. So shop on sisters and know you are supporting a great cause!

Donna

Graduation 2008

Well it happened....... they all told me that the day would come, that I should prepare myself, its like being at the top of a roller coaster just before you head down, your excited and nervous but willing to go on with the journey (not like you can get off now anyway). Yes I'm talking about my Baby graduating form Kindergarten! I know, I know there’s lots more to come, more graduations, dates, heartaches, the prom. Everyone says that after the first graduation it all just goes by so fast, I mean William is my baby, my first baby and everyone knows there is nothing like the first. (take it from me I was the second) It was sooo nice all of the parents were there cheering their kids on, as we watched pictures of them from the school year, watching all of the fun that they had, knowing that they were in a good place, not just learning but being cared for. They did a play "The grouchy Lady bug" (okay so we couldn't hear most of it, it seemed like then the kids wanted to whisper their parts) and it was good. William was the elephant and he said his line perfectly. They then sang " I believe I can fly"(which I guess was okay being that R was acquitted, Hummmmm, but that’s another story). Then it was time to receive the diplomas, all the kids were anxious as they waited for their name to be called. William J. Reeves was called out he stood up and walked across the floor he received his diploma and turned to me with a big bright smile and my heart just broke! I will not cry, I told myself as tears started to well up in my eyes. I was so proud of my child! He's gone from being my baby to my little man, Awhhh who am I kidding? He will always be my baby! I love you Will!

We Still Need You

From time to time I just shake my head and smile when I think of the long, blessed trail we have traveled with Pooka. I could never have imagined this little idea would grow into a little company that would appear in national magazines and not one, but two national television shows. We have truly been blessed. To get the opportunity to work with my sister and my girlfriends and other members of my family has been a dream come true. I’ve learned a lot about myself over the years… I didn’t know just how resilient I could be!!

I would be less than truthful if I didn’t say the road has been rough too. A lot of folks have written or told me in person how proud they are of me and Pooka. They have seen the articles and TV appearances and congratulated us on “making it.” Most of the time I just smile and keep it moving but if it’s someone I know I may take the time to remind them of the expenses associated with business. I know they mean well but we are not quite in a place where we have made it [that’s putting it nicely]. We are hustling to make it every day like most of you.

We definitely take time to recognize the achievements and accomplishments and how many companies don’t get to celebrate a 7th anniversary but we have a long way to go before we get to the place we’re trying to reach. We still need you… all of you. No order is too small. We need your referrals… your friends, family, church members and their people. We are looking for every way we can think of to help spread the word of Pooka but advertising is expensive. Pooka is still a small company and we rely on individuals to keep us going. No matter where you see us – magazines, TV, websites – we still know who we are and who keeps us going. We share our blessings with you like we do with our family and friends but, please believe, there is no Pooka without you.

Peace and blessings,

Dawn

It's A Party!!

Lovin' our new Products!

Hey Pooka Family! I'm loving our new products we're preparing to launch for the second half of this year! First we have our Foot Fizzy. If you came to our Mother's Day Foot Soak, you got a sneak preview of them. Everyone who came for the Mother's Day Soak loved them! And now, we have them for sale! They're not on the web yet, but if you come to the Pooka Warehouse, you can purchase the Foot Fizzy Box. Plus we have the return of Pineapple! Hope to see you this Saturday for the party!


P.S. next week we'll tell you about the next product scheduled for launch. I'll give you a hint..it's an old favorite to which it's making a fourth metamorphosis with it's presentation. Can you guess what it is?

Paging Laman Rucker.................Danny Glover?

Well everyone after our 15 minutes of fame the other night, I was pretty excited, when it occurred to me, “Hey maybe Laman Rucker will email!!!!”. For those of you who don’t know him he played Sheriff Troy in Tyler Perry’s “Why did I get Married”. LOVE HIM!!! I waited patiently, checking my email at least 20 times and guess what? No email! You know what I thought to myself I’m just going to move right on, maybe “The Rock” sent an email! After thoroughly checking I was devastated to realize that he too chose not to communicate with me! After thinking it over I’ve realized I may have overestimated myself! So now I am patiently awaiting an email from Danny Glover or maybe Morgan Freeman, he was pretty hot in the Electric Company!!!!

CBS News!

Hi All!
We had such an exciting night last night! We were on the CBS Evening News. Of course, Katie had the night off! But Pooka was still there! I hope you all got to see and feel free to watch it again, I know I have!!! We are really trying to stretch our 15 minutes of fame as long as we can! Thanks for all of your support!

Sex and the City: The Review (Pookalitas Style)

Donna's View

Well I went to see the much anticipated movie of the summer. I admit that I am a true fan and always have been. I still watch the reruns!! I believe that the show taught women so much... maybe too much!! You could watch to learn or watch because you knew you could never... shut your mouth!

We did the girls pre-movie dinner so we could chat and order cocktails. We also discussed which character we thought we were and then let others give their opinion. It's funny that your perception of yourself is not always others reality!! We ordered our tickets beforehand to be prepared. We got our snacks and stood in line for prime seats in the theater. We watched the previews and then the movie started. We heard the familiar opening music and off we went. Right back into that special woman world. The world full of love, choices, men, fabulous fashion, tears, excitement, doubt, passion, sister/friends, food, laughter, children, money, strength, breathlessness, joy and yes... sex!

I would consider myself a girly girl and a romantic at heart. I thought the movie was really good. I guess I missed those women like they were my girls! I am not sure though how I felt about the end (and don't worry, won't give anything away!!) The romantic/emotional woman in me fought with the logical/hurt woman in me and we rolled around for a minute. In the end though we both gave the movie thumbs up. Did we talk about the shoes?...

Dawn's View

Well... wasn't that nice that Donna had a nice relaxing time?! Alright, I too am a die hard Sex and the City fan!! I was sooo excited and decided to plan our girlfriend Sex and the City outing. I sent out a very witty email and my machine crashed right before I hit "send", so I had to recreate it and then I sent it out. I couldn't wait for the response from all the girls, about 9 in total! I took a shower and went back to machine for all the responses. NONE! Okay, I'll wait a little longer.

At about 2:30 I started feeling a little crappy that no one else was excited. I waited until the next morning to call everyone because I wanted to get the tickets in advance, I had heard theaters were selling out. I made my first call, "So, did you get my email?" response, "NO." After calling everyone I realized no one got my email! But that was okay I put the plan in motion, we were going to eat first and then see the movie.

I purchased all the tickets in advance. That day I called everyone, coordinated times, rides and even outfits (I know I really need to get a life!) By the time we all met coming from different directions I was frazzled and we were running late. I dropped my car load off at the restaurant and then went back to the theater to pick up the tickets. Went back to the restaurant and dropped off April so she could order her food and drove to get gas so I wouldn't have to get it after we ate. I finally got to the restaurant and we had 15 minutes to eat!! When the food arrived we asked for the check at the same time and inhaled everything, drinks included, in our small window of time. Paid the bill and I ran to get the car, packed my crew in and drove to the movie like a maniac so we could get in line and all sit together.

Now we're finally on line and go into the theater and find seats, when I look around and the theater is half full!!! I was losing my mind to get here and the theater was HALF FULL!!! Lights dimmed and the movie began.......

p.s. I liked it, not loved it, liked it, great shoes! Next time I'm going alone, LOL!

April's View

I was SO Happy to be going out and hanging with my girls to watch what I hoped would be one of the best (girl) movies ever. I am not a girly girl, I would much rather see action, science fiction, horror etc. But, I love Sex and the City so it was okay to go see the movie.

My mom was going to watch the kids (who were excited about spending the night at Grandma's house.) I too was excited as I raced to get them into the car and out of the driveway when I managed to scrape the side of my car against the garage trying to be on time! (Thanks D.) Dawn was steady calling me every five minutes, "Are you there yet?", "Did you get there?", "Are you almost there?" It was a little stressful, all I could say was, "I'm on my way!"

When I finally got to my mother's building she had already gone back upstairs, so I had the doorman call her to come back down. (Yes, you know I had to hear some words.) Dawn calls me again "Are you there?" "Yes" I said. "Is Melissa (my sister-in-law) there yet?" "No, not yet." I replied. Oh the agony we were putting Dawn through! She said, "We have to be on time!" I answered, "I know, if you guys want to leave its okay, I'll wait for her and we will ride together." Luckily Mel arrived a few minutes after I did so we were able to jump in Dawn's car (Stephanie was already in the car) and off we went!

We made it to the restaurant where I had a couple of Lemon Drop Martinis (Delicious) and a wonderful dinner. We raced to the theater (Dawn and I had picked up the tickets earlier) secured seats and settled in to watch the show. I enjoyed it, I probably enjoyed it more because I was with my girlfriends.

Tricia’s "Told you!" View

Didn't I tell you Pooka Family? I told you, I told you, I told you! Did you read my last blog? Carrie waited 10 years for Mr. Big and what happens? Okay, I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it yet... there is a twist, then a turn, then the quintessential fairy tale ending. Hope you enjoy it!

A Day To Remember

Well, I am overwhelmed today! Today is the day that we have our FIRST African American nominated for the Presidency! This is a monumental time for all of us. A time to be proud, a time to be inspired and a time to just be thankful. I feel like this is what Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, even Kunta have been waiting for!

Let's make sure that we take the time to talk to each other and our youth about what has happened today. I believe this could start to change our society. I know there are naysayers who say "He won't win" or "What will he actually be able to accomplish?" but today I'm not worried about that, I'm just enjoying the fact that he is there! As I watched his speech last night, before he started he hugged and kissed his wife and then very quickly they tapped knuckles!!! I love them!!!! THEY TAPPED KNUCKLES! I'm going to be doing that all day! In honor of our nominee it's just fitting that we run Wesley's video again!!!

Sunday Dinner… Mmmmmm!!

Hi family! Well… a few weeks ago I decided to make Sunday dinner. Now to me Sunday dinner is a big deal. There is nothing like it! It’s about the preparation of the food, the good smells, and the laughter and conversation going on in the kitchen while dinner is being prepared. Did I say it was about the food?!!?

Come on now we all saw Soul Food and everyone’s lips were watering because they could smell all that good food right through the movie screen! So I decided to invite my parents, brother and sister. I have been so busy that I haven’t had time to prepare and invite folks over. I like being the hostess with the mostess. All that is going to change this summer with the Oasis! (Update-The Oasis still in progress. Will keep everyone posted!)

I searched many recipes and magazines being the Foodie that I am. I wanted to cook something special, something exotic. Then it hit me exactly what I wanted to make. A big mama dinner!! Now, I think that “big mama’s” come in all sizes. It’s all about the meal, people. My menu consisted of collard greens made with smoked turkey (no pork at our house and turkey gives it great flavor), sweet potatoes (made with brown sugar instead of white), macaroni and cheese (ok, that was just mac and cheese - some things just have to be!), cranberry sauce ( that was from the can but next time I will make from scratch), corn bread (which I added cream corn to-thanks Mom-in Law!) and some smothered turkey wings (baked in the oven).

Now my dinner was alright if I say so myself! More importantly everyone else did too. Now what did Dawn and Douglas say about dinner…..uhh, nothing because they did not come! Everyone is busy so sometimes that happens. No complaints from my hubby though. He loves leftovers second after me!! For dessert I tried to keep it light with mixed berries and whipped topping. My parents gave me that proud look that their baby girl can cook and my husband kept rubbing his belly. All in all I would say a good Sunday dinner was had by everyone!

Sex and the City

I'm soooo not a Sex and the City fan so my sisters are putting me on blast for not liking the show. Carrie just annoys me. She had a good man in Aiden, but she let him go. She's soooo in love with Big, but he doesn't respect her enough to make her the number 1 woman in his life. He cheats on his wife to kick it with her. So now that his marriage has fallen apart he comes back to Carrie and proposes?? And she welcomes him with open arms??? UGH!!! Like I said, I'm really not a fan, but I have caught a couple of episodes (while in syndication.) :)

Soooo, my sisters are dragging me to see the movie this weekend! I'll go... but I won't like it!

Peace & Blessings,

Tricia

TV TIME!!!

Well everybody guess what? We're going to be on TV!!!!!! Yup, we got blessed again!

As I'm sitting at my desk and wondering what to do next, I get an email, from CBS evening news and they want to do a story on women of color that become entrepeneurs!!!!!! As I slowly typed, "yes please" on my keyboard my mind starting reeling.

It all happened so fast and before I knew it the CBS crew was at the warehouse and filming! The next day they filmed us at Whole Foods and I just completed a speaking engagement at a school in Jersey City, which they also filmed.

Well, it has been a wonderful, blessed week and we are waiting to find out when the story will run, but don't worry you all will be the first to know!!! Hopefully this video will turn out better than our Howard U video :-)

Age Ain't Nothing But A Number

Okay, Pooka Fam, I know age ain't nothing but a number but... doesn't it feel good when folks think you are younger than what you are? Recently my co-workers were engaged in an impromptu conversation about each other's age. They were going around the room trying to guess each other's age group.

Well surprise, surprise, when it got around to me, they thought I was 12 to 15 years younger than I really am! Now, I'm not trying to toot my own horn, but hey, that Pooka must really be keeping my skin smooth! When I told them my age range (notice I said range) they were absolutely shocked! No one could believe that I was not in the 20-something club! Well ladies, I'm here to tell you Pooka keeps you looking young! (maybe that's how I got my husband... he is younger than me!!) :)

By the way, not sure if it makes a difference but I neglected to tell you that I work with all men so not really sure if that has anything to do with their ability to judge a woman's age... regardless, it still felt good!

Long Live The Divas!!

I recently had a birthday (May 2nd happy birthday to me!) and I have decided among other things to make it my mission to enjoy my life as much as possible. So when a friend of mine told me that she had an extra ticket to go see Divas with a Heart, I JUMPED on it! I mean where else, or when would I EVER be able to see four of my favorite women singing my all time favorite songs live and in person! It was like a dream come true... we had excellent seats; good company and the drinks were flowing!

I sat on the edge of my seat as Ms.Gladys took the stage; she looked beautiful and sounded wonderful. She sang most of her classics like "Midnight Train to Georgia", "I Got To Use My Imagination", "'Neither One of Us Wants To Be The First To Say Goodbye" and the audience sang right along with her!

Then it was Chaka's turn, Chaka Kahn... Chaka Kahn... let me love you Chaka Kahn... she rocked the house and sang her heart out, "To Sir With Love" " I'm Every Woman," "Though The Fire"... everybody was on their feet!

Next was Ms. Patti... say my name Patti, Patti, with her six inch heels and banging coat she tore the stage up! Kicking off her shoes, rolling all over the floor as she sang "Somebody Loves Ya Baby", "Over The Rainbow", "If Only You Knew", then Nona Hendyx and Sarah Dash came out and they sang "Lady Marmalade". They tore the house apart!

Then the Boss came on, she walked down the aisle to the stage singing, "I'm Coming Out" and the place went wild! I gotta give it to Diana she still looks and sounds great, she ran from one end of the stage to the next singing "Stop In The Name Of Love, "Endless Love", Ain't No Mountain High Enough". It was just fabulous!

Of course, there were many more songs that we would have all loved to hear, but the concert had to come to an end sometime! All in all it was a great time and I think everyone had a lot of fun!

My Oasis...

Well summer is fast approaching. It is my favorite time of the year. The hot weather is my weather! My husband and I agree that we will move to some hot weather destination when we approach our golden years. Still cute, driving through our retirement community with the top down!! But, for right now, we have a summer time project. It is to transform our backyard into the ultimate Oasis [well as much of an Oasis as you can have in Jersey!!]

Now this Oasis idea is really my idea but I am ok with that... I know hubby will enjoy the end result. I am thinking of flowers, waterfalls, hanging lights and an outdoor living room. He is thinking of how much work it will take and how many trips he will make to Home Depot!

I watch HGTV (when not watching the Food Network) and get a million ideas. Who knew rocks come in so many colors?? Marshall’s (my favorite store) will also be the place to find those one of a kind baskets, fabulous dishes and utensils, and indoor/outdoor rugs to put in my Oasis. Our grill area must be perfect to give honor to the great meals that will be prepared. As I told you before…dining outside adds to a Foodie’s culinary experience!!

My Oasis will be the ultimate gathering place or can be a cozy date for two. I will have to remind myself to go inside my house from time to time! I am excited for this project and will keep you posted as the Oasis evolves…

I'm Going To Be On A Speaker's Panel!!

I have been invited to participate in a panel discussion regarding entrepreneurship during tough economic times [obviously someone has been lookin' in my bank account!].

I'm excited about this opportunity. The panel is part of a conference entitled, "The Economics of Success: A Lesson in Perseverance. Shon Gables, formerly of CBS 2 News - currently host of Black Enterprise Business Report, is the keynote speaker of the conference. The panel includes Craig Treadway from CW11, me and April from Pooka and three other entrepreneurs. The conference takes place at 10:00 am this Saturday, May 17th, at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark, NJ.

We have been asked to give the "real deal" on the world of the small entrepreneur, especially during tough times like we are experiencing now. The conference has been designed to educate potential entrepreneurs but also to remind our supporters, clients and potential clients that we need them now more than ever. That support, no matter how small, is the life blood of our small businesses.

On that note, let me thank all of you, new and old Pooka customers, for the support you give us!! We appreciate every time you decide to steer a purchase our way instead of some big company. We know it's tough right now and we try to do our part with giveaways, sales and other promotions to make it easier on you.

Again, I like the idea of this conference and I'm honored to be chosen. I want to do my part to make sure everyone understands what is involved with not only opening a business but trying to keep it afloat when things get tight. We are trying to be as creative as possible and I'm happy to pass on any tips that I can.

So, yeah, it's tough but with your help and our hard work and prayers we will continue. Please don't ever forget, We need you, we love your support and we appreciate you!!

Summer Time Violence

UGHHHHH!! I am so frustrated and tired!

Why is it that every time the weather breaks or it gets a little nice outside, it's earmarked with violence in our community? Recently, Dawn told me that one of our friends was shot in Irvington. The next day Yolanda called and told me that one of our friends got shot in Brooklyn. I don't understand this! Why does this continue to happen in our community? Why can't we evolve from this cycle of violence?

I'm sorry Pooka family... I know you expect something more lighthearted but today I just need to vent. Do we as woman need to talk to our brothers more to let them know they are loved just as they are? Do we need to tell them they don't need to go out and shoot someone to get a motorcycle or a gold chain or a few extra dollars?

Please someone tell me... what's the answer to getting violence out of our community?

Peace & Blessings,

Tricia

TMI!!!!!!!

Hi People,

Is it me or is everyone worried about everyone else’s business?! I, like my sister, am obsessed with this upcoming election. This is the most important political moment in my lifetime!! But can we just deal with the issues? ...of course not! Can we deal with the candidates’ stance on health care, the mortgage crisis, gas prices, the war? ...of course not! Can we deal with the effects of global warming? ...of course not! Can we deal with how our country will be viewed by the global community in the future? ...of course not!

No people, we have to deal with what the political affiliation of your neighbor was when you were five years old! Was all of your jewelry purchased at the United States of America tourist store! What type of book did you take that oath on??!! And my favorite... is that really your pastor?!!!

SORRY, but this is really more than I can take (by the way, I guess you see who I am defending!!) When I watch all of these political programs I sometimes think I am watching a televised issue of STAR magazine!! So much time, and energy and so-called knowledgeable opinion is spent on what I call the, who cares?! category!!

Look, most important is that you support and select the candidate of your choice. That support should be based on their record of service and their platform. The candidates, first and foremost, are human beings like you and me. They have gone though a lifetime (good, bad and indifferent) of everything that goes along with living life. This includes people, family and experiences, sometimes similar to ours and sometimes not. We can try to analyze their actions (past and present) and their every word, to determine their character. But, unless we are going home with them every day we will never really know them like that.

This is one of the most important elections for so many reasons and people are very passionate about their choice for the next president of the United States. It is an exciting time for us all! My plea to you is to focus. Focus on what is real and not fabricated or exaggerated or overrated or unimportant. People, please pay attention to the issues and do not be distracted by the distraction!!

Peace & Blessings,

Donna