Fatherhood seems to have a new face for black children!

I'm sure that many of you have noticed that there appears to be more and more white men loving, supporting and providing for

black children. Often, even when they are not biologically theirs! The fact is, it appears that sistas have finally gotten the memo. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHAT COLOR THE MAN IS, A GOOD FATHER IS A GOOD FATHER! I'm happy to see that you ladies are finally waking up! The truth is that you and your children deserve a good husband and father just like other women do. It seems that in the BC, bw are often made to feel ashamed for wanting basic things that almost all women want. Like a good husband, and father for her children! Ladies this is basic female instinct 101. Nature has designed the woman to want a good mate to help with children, responsibilities, and just general life issues. Don't ever feel ashamed for wanting what you have a basic right to have. And don't let other women tell you, you don't have a right to look at wm. The truth of the matter is that given half a chance, those women who claim they would never.... are lying, they are just scared of what people would say. They also do not for one minute, want you to have a good father for your children, if they don't have one for theirs. Ladies, I think we all know by now that many (not all) bm are NOT interested in giving love and support to their children. Many are not interested in providing for said children, and many are not interested in even KNOWING their children! I know it's hard to fathom that so many bm could actually just walk away from their own precious children. But we see it everyday. We all know they do. All of us see on a constant basis, fearful, stressed out, lonely, desperate and depressed bw. We see them trying to be the sole financial, and emotional support for their children. We often see them no help whatsoever from the bm who impregnated them. I'm glad to see more and more sistas starting to realize that they don't have to go this path alone. Life was not meant to be lived alone. Whoever you are, there are good wm out there who would love you and your children and ease some of that onerous burdens that many of you sistas are carrying alone. The truth is that almost all children want a loving father. And no child deserves to be abandoned, neglected and left to fend for him or herself in this callous world. And it doe's not have to happen. Now am I saying all wm are good fathers? Absolutely not! There are bad wm fathers out there, you all know that. But because of the sheer number of wm in this world, as well as a more family oriented mindset during the formative years. Many wm are much better suited to the task of fatherhood, and all it encompasses. Also, because of their sheer numbers, it makes it so much easier to find the good ones. (And they are plentiful) I'm glad to see more and more wm fathers with their little black babies out at the stores and such. It's such a refreshing sight. Usually when I see this, the children are smiling happily and so is the mother. The daddies often look like they are going to burst with pride. As more and more sistas open their heart to love irregardless of color, scenes such as this will become commonplace. Please remember that your child does not care what color his/her father is. Your child just wants a loving father, and too many children are being deprived of this right. I was reading an article in a magazine one day. Several bm were being interviewed by a reporter. She wanted to know how many of them had children they had not seen in a while, and what prevented them from marrying the mothers of their children. Turned out, of all the fathers, only 1 of the 10 was in his child's lives! And only 2 of the 10 paid child support! Some of the men actually got angry that she would have the audacity to ask such a question! Ladies doe's this sound like a winnable hand to you? As one man told her (he was the one who was paying) " Just because I make good money, and drive a nice car, does that mean she should expect me to commit my whole life! I already pay over 200.00 a month in child support! " Now keep in mind that he had 3 children! And he thought he was doing something. Of the others, 8 of the 10 were not paying any child support at all, and were lax and evasive about when they planned to start paying. One even told her, BW make their own bed. They lay up with anybody and get pregnant so them them take care of their own kids! (like they had nothing to do with it!) All I can say is thank God sistas are moving on, and giving wm a chance to be the new face of fatherhood for more and more black children!

Donnely Place Continued.... Part 2

My apologies Everybody. I expected this to end with part 2 but like I said. I never know how a story will come out when I start to write. And this will end with a part 3.

Thank you all for tuning in..... Donnely Place 451 continues......

Sylvia was relieved to get the job, but Alexis Crenshaw was certainly not what she expected. Although she was black and adorable looking, her personality was not. She was brusque with Sylvia and most times very cold. Sylvia had no idea what she had done to her, but Mrs Crenshaw made it clear that she did not like her. She had been working for the Crenshaws for nearly a week when Mrs Crenshaw's two sisters, Dione and Jennifer came to visit. Sylvia showed them in and resumed her duties. She was filling the dishwasher, when she heard Mrs Crenshaw complaining about her in the dining room. "I tell you, I just can't believe he brought me this... this hood rat! Doe's he really think I want this woman around MY CHILDREN! " Sylvia felt her blood grow cold. She peeked around the corner and watched Mrs Crenshaw accepting warm hugs from her sisters, while she talked trash about Sylvia as if she weren't there! "Alexis. " Her older sister Dione, sighed. "Exactly what has the woman done that causes you so much distress?" "She looked perfectly nice to me-a little beaten up by life, but sweet" "Beaten up is right" Her sister, Jennifer laughed. "She looks like when God called the line for beauty, she thought he said duty and ran to hide!" She giggled at her own dumb joke, with Alexis joining in. Only Dione didn't laugh, in fact she looked slightly embarrassed. " That's not funny, you guys. Remember what momma always said -Laugh not for there but for the grace of God go you" This caused them to go from giggles to peals of laughter. "That's not the line you idiot! " Jennifer gasped, laughing harder. She wiped her eyes with her sleeve. "Well whatever it is, it's rude to treat people like that and you know it!" Dione felt her irritation rise. Why did they always think they were better than everyone- especially after what Alexis had done! Alexis suppressed her smile, at Dione's frowning face. "ok sis, we're sorry." she giggled. Lets go see what Aunt Jamima is cooking for dinner ok?" This caused Jennifer to fall back to the sofa in a new fit of laughter. Dione got up and walked away from them....

Sylvia was at the table feeding baby Bianca. She turned her face away so that Dione would not see her embarrassment. She knew they were talking about her. Dione was embarrassed herself. She knew by the woman's demeanor that she had either overheard, or eavesdropped on the conversation. Sylvia was so distracted, and upset, she missed the baby's mouth with the bottle. Bianca flung her little arms in the air, and gave a screaming wail of protest. In seconds, Mrs Crenshaw, who claimed to be too weak to get herself a glass of water, was in the kitchen, followed by Jennifer. They both glared at her. "What the hell are you doing to my baby? " She demanded. Sylvia was taken aback. "Nothing,.... I... I was feeding her " "Well you're doing something wrong! " Jennifer shot at her. "Or she wouldn't be crying. She moved toward Sylvia and none too gently, literally snatched Bianca from her arms. Sylvia turned her head so they wouldn't see the rage in her eyes. She knew if Mrs Crenshaw saw it, she would be fired for sure and she needed this job! 'Just hold on girl, she told herself. Just enough money to get my babies and run. Just pray and hold on.' " Why don't you go clean the upstairs bathrooms, and don't forget the master bedroom this time." Alexis snapped at her. " Sylvia stared at her. Had she forgotten that Mr Crenshaw had said light work only! She started to refuse but then thought better of it. Upstairs she wouldn't have to be bothered with them. She gathered the mop and broom and headed toward the curved staircase. Dione barely let her make it to the stairs before she laid into her sisters. "Look, I don't know what the problem is here, but I'm sick and tired of the way you guys are treating her! " She struggled to keep her voice down. What exactly has that woman done to you to make you hate her like this Alexis? -Did you catch her making eyes at Thomas or something?" Jennifer snorted. "That's hardly a concern-I've seen one tooth, saggy tittied, bug eyed, pygmies with more sex appeal than her!" Dione took Bianca as both Jennifer and Alexis fell into the kitchen chairs, and doubled over with laughter. "Well,...... maybe she reminds you of someone else" Dione said slowly. "Someone you'd rather forget!" The humor was instantly gone from Alexis's pretty face. "Don't go there Dione, " she warned ominously. -"Don't you ever go there!.... "

The time flew by until it was Friday, four weeks into her new job. It was the day Sylvia had been waiting for -payday! Last payday she'd had to pay all the bills she couldn't pay when Tyshon had found her stash, but now she had a bank account and that was never going to happen again. She was praying Mr Crenshaw would be there early, or at least on time. Sometimes he had to stay late at the office, but he was usually always home by 7, unless he was on a business trip. She wanted that cash in her hands badly. He had promised to give her cash so she wouldn't have to worry about getting to the bank before it closed. At six -thirty on the dot, Mr Crenshaw strolled in. Both Mrs Crenshaw and little Tiffany (the seven year old) ran to greet him. He wrapped his arms around them, kissing them both warmly. The sheer love on his face made Sylvia want to cry. She turned away the painful, yet familiar scene. Mr Crenshaw did this every night yet it never seemed to get any less painful. It wasn't fair. Mrs Crenshaw was slim, beautiful, and very much loved. She had this great house, two beautiful children, and a man who worshipped the ground she walked on. I wish I had someone to just look at me the way he looks at her! She thought wistfully. She watched, as Tiffany ran gaily back to her television program on a tv that hung from a wall, and was big enough to double as a movie screen. She was still thinking about how unfair it all was as she entered the kitchen so she could tidy it up before she left. Mr Crenshaw was still still kissing his wife. In fact the kisses seemed to be growing much deeper. Sylvia could almost see the hunger on his face as he blazed a trail from her face to her thoat. She tried to pretend she wasn't paying attention but she was fascinated. She had never actually known a black woman with a white husband where she was from. She quessed that Mrs Crenshaw's sisters, Dione and Jennifer were also married to white men just from hearing them talk, and seeing Dione's blond-blue eyed daughter, Jessica. She knew she should have left when she saw them kissing, and given them their privacy. But she stayed. They do have a bedroom! She thought to herself. And I do have to finish so I can go home! She could hear snatches of their conversation although they were trying to whisper. "How much longer?" Mr Crenshaw was asking. "Honey, please don't do this!" Mrs Crenshaw's voice sounded low and pleading. Sylvia missed the next part but heard her say "You know it'll be awhile...don't....when you know I can't" She seemed to be wiping away tears. Mr Crenshaw drew a ragged breath that seemed to take all his strength, and energy. He pulled his wife close and nuzzled her neck. apologizing softly, and kissing her gently. The look on his face reminded Sylvia of a sad moth pulled helplessly to a flame. It was pretty obvious how much he adored her, and that he wanted desparately to make love to her. She guessed this was why he looked so upset. He would not be able to touch her for several more weeks, and it was evidently driving him crazy. Sylvia writhed in jealousy at the naked hunger on his face and turning, she fled the room. No man had ever looked at her like that! And most likely, no man ever would! She thought of the pathetic groping, and pawing that passed for lovemaking in her life. With Tyshon it was more huffing and puffing than anything else. Just an endless, emotionless, pounding. No sweet words no kisses, no nothing. She sighed as she took off her apron. She'd had enough of these people, and their perfect little world for one night. She had to get away. She checked on the baby and then grabbed her threadbare coat. Mr Crenshaw seemed so wrapped up in his pretty, black, witch of a wife he made no indication of hearing her leave. Tears were on Sylvia's face as she made her way to the bus stop. She needed that money- and now she had to wait until Monday to get it! Dammit! She was so upset, that it took her a few minutes to realize that someone calling her name. She turned and saw Mr Crenshaw in his gray jag honking, at her with a puzzled look on his face.

"Sylvia, get in - Why'd you leave so fast?- I need to talk to you" Sylvia got in and turned to face him. "First off, I uh.... want to apologize for my wife. Dione told me she's been less then gracious to you." Boy, that's an understatement, Sylvia thought wryly. "And second, I want to give you this. " His 'this' made up for everything. He handed Sylvia an envelope. When she opened it, she gasped. It was obviously well over the four hundred dollars he owed her! She was so excited she could barely count it. He seemed to read her thoughts. "It's six hundred. I know we agreed on four every two weeks, but that was before you were forced to stay later than agreed some nights, as well as put up with my wife's....uh, less than becoming behavior." Sylvia couldn't keep the smile off her face. "that's ok... she's not that bad" She lied. They looked at each other a moment, then burst out laughing. " Ok, she is," Sylvia admitted. But I could put up with her all day for this kind of money! She thought happily. "I know she doesn't like me." Sylvia began. " I sometimes get the feeling I remind her of someone else-" She stopped when she saw the strange look cross his face. He looked away quickly. "Can't imagine who that could be " He murmured, unconvincingly. " Anyway, I was wondering if you'd like to make an extra 200 next weekend? "He took in her growing excitement, and held up his large hand. " Sylvia, this won't be easy money, trust me. We're having a party on Saturday. My wife is going to want you to watch the baby, help prepare the food, and serve the guests on the night of the party. We've hired two part time helpers, but there'll will still be plenty of work. Oh, and she wants you to help clean up the entire mess on Sunday. So I'll understand if you turn us down" The wheels of her mind were turning. She knew very well that Mrs Crenshaw wanted her there so she could boss her around in front of her friends and treat her like a slave. She knew the drill by now but there was no way she was going to turn down 2oo.oo! Although it would'nt hurt to try for 300. All he could say was no. "I'm going to need 300.00, " she said firmly. "Your wife is going to work the hell out of me " She said this it more courage than she felt, then bit her lip as she waited. What if he got angry? Had she just thrown 2oo.oo dollars away? 200.00 that she needed desparately for her get away fund? He shook his head like he was about to protest, then thought better of it. "Ok." He said simply. "Just be there by 8 o'clock." He knew she was right. Alexis was definitely going to work the hell out of her. She almost seemed to blame her for what happened. But that didn't make any sense. This woman had nothing to do with that! He thought about it as he dropped Sylvia off in her dilapidated neighborhood and pretended not to notice the embarrassment on her face. He watched her get her two children from across the street and then go into a building that looked like a ransacked, homeless shelter. Quiet guilt filled him as he thought about the privileged life of he and his family. But he had to laugh to himself. She was a shrewed one, He knew now, she would gladly have accepted that 2oo.oo if he had refused to give her 300.00. She had been very shrewd to ask for 300 before he'd seen her living arrangements......


The next week-end was one of the happiest in Sylvia's life. She, her friend carol and her babies went downtown to get Tia new shoes. Tia pranced around happily showing everyone around. Her eyes sparkling with glee. Sylvia had to wipe away quiet tears. No little girl should be that happy to get a cheap pair of shoes. Carol saw her but pretended not to notice. "Girl, so howz life at the Creme de la Creme mansion?" Sylvia giggled. "It's Crenshaw, Carol." Carol made a face. "same thing for them mofos -so howz life?" Sylvia frowned. " She still hates me- if that's what you mean." Then she added. "but the money is really good girl!-so she can keep on hating me!" Carol laughed. "That's what I'm saying g-u-r-l! " She exclaimed extra loud, while she slapped Sylvia's hand. "I say let the bitches, bitch long as a sista gettin paid!" She never noticed Sylvia wincing at her words. None of the Crenshaw's or their friends ever talked like this, and Sylvia was beginning to find it a horrendous misuse of speech. " -So you doin the party huh?" Sylvia nodded. "Well shoot, find out if they need any help- I needs me some money too!" Sylvia nodded again, but said nothing. They walked down to a fast food place to eat. Sylvia was thinking quietly about what Carol had said. Should she ask Mr Crenshaw about Carol? She wanted to, and she knew Carol needed the money but the problem was, she didn't want Carol bringing the hood to her job! Mrs Crenshaw seemed to hate the hood more than anything. And If Carol came there being loud and uncouth, with her Ebonic street lingo, it could mean her job. And she really needed this job! This wasn't just shoe money-this was get-away-money! Quietly, she decided she would not say a word about Carol to Mr Crenshaw, she just could not take the chance, she needed the job too badly. She glanced down and saw Tia watching her. She was smiling, but her eyes were pleading. Sylvia looked hard at her. Tia's eyes were trying to convey an unspoken message to her mother. They had always had great silent communication and Sylvia could almost hear her saying " Momma, don't risk it-This is our chance to get out! please don't risk it!" Sylvia smiled reassuringly at her, and Tia's eyes filled with relief.......

The night of the party dawned crisp and cool. Sylvia dressed in the uniform that Mrs Crenshaw has assigned and kissed her babies at Ms Moppet's doorstep. Tia held baby Abigail and looked up at her. Standing there holding a baby with a diaper bag on her tiny shoulder, she looked like a child forced to grow up way before her time. With a pang of regret. Sylvia realized that was exactly what she was. Tia smiled bravely at her. "momma, kin we stay with Ms Moppet till you come? I don't wanna go with daddy, and clean up after his pokey game. I'm scared of all his friends!" Sylvia's heart stopped. What the hell was Tia talking about?. The next moment Ms Moppet was at the door. Sylvia asked her what was going on, and she told her that twice she refused to let Tyshon take Tia to clean up after his poker game and serve drinks during it. She said that Tyshon had caused such a ruckus, she'd told him she would call the police if he came back. Sylvia was so upset she had to lean against the door jamb. She told Ms Moppet under no circumstances should she allow the kids to go with him! Rage filled her blood as she thought about him trying to use her baby to clean up behind his filthy friends! She was terrified to think of what would have happened had Ms Moppet let him take Tia. Those disgusting men, all around her innocent, vulnerable little girl! Oh my God! she thought frantically. Gotta get them outta here! she thought harder and harder, as she made her way to the bus stop.... The party was in full swing as Sylvia made her way to the kitchen. Mrs Crenshaw scowled at her. " Did Mr Crenshaw not tell you seven o clock?" She demanded. "No, he did not " Sylvia answered snippily. " He told me eight o'clock!" The servers in the background exchanged glances. Mrs Crenshaw loved to snap on people but was quick to run and tell her husband, should someone have the audacity to talk back to her the same way. They waited to see what would happen. Just then the baby started to wail. The girl closest to her picked her up but her cries grew louder, and louder. Sylvia moved across the room and took the baby from the grateful girl. Bianca wrapped her tiny arms around Sylvia's shoulder and quieted softly down. Alexis Crenshaw watched quietly, then turned, and stormed away...."how do you tolerate her? " A young girl loading the dishwasher, asked. "The same way we all do, " An older woman answered for Sylvia. " We think about the money!" The hours flew by. Around 11, Mrs Crenshaw came in and told Sylvia to go clean up the dishes and drinks the guests had strewn around. Sylvia went into the living room collecting dishes and glasses in a large dish pan. She was embarrassed at having to be seen by all these rich people, in her maid's uniform. She so wished she were back in the kitchen where she could hide! Sylvia! She looked up at the sound of her name and spotted Lena coming toward her with a big smile on her face. Everytime she saw Lena she seemed to be happy and smiling. Lena gave her a quick hug, and stepped back. "So good to see you, how are you-Is my brother treating you ok?" Sylvia nodded. Lena grabbed her wrist. "Come on, I want you to meet some more of my family." She led Sylvia to an outdoor table and snatched the dish pan from her, handing it to another girl before Sylvia could protest. "Don't worry about Alexis, " she laughed at the worry on Sylvia's face. "I'll take care of her. Anyway, I want you to meet my big brother John Michael, and my husband Jim." Sylvia's was surprised to see that Lena's husband Jim was black. (although, it shouldn't have been a surprise with this family) He was semi tall, and very nice looking, but seemed rather cool and reserved. He averted his gaze when Sylvia said hi. She got his message loud and clear. You're hired help and you don't belong here!. Lena's brother John, on the other hand, was very friendly and even easier on the eyes. In fact, he was gorgeous! It was easy to see they came from the same family. He had Lena's blond hair and ruddy coloring. Sylvia took his outstretched hand timidly. He smiled down at her with clear gray eyes and a dimple in his chin deeper than Michael Jackson's. "Nice to meet you, " He said sincerely in a deep, masculine voice. He was staring deeply into her eyes, and Sylvia felt herself redden. Damn! why did she have to be in a maid's uniform, and why did he have to be so handsome? "Ah, it....it's nice to meet you too" she answered slowly. His wide smile was making her insides do crazy things. "I'll get drinks! " Lena piped up happily, and fled across the room. Sylvia realized Lena really was that happy. Funny, when she'd first met her she thought she was faking it. "Ah... shouldn't you be getting drinks? " Lena's husband Jim, cut in rudely. "After all, you are one of the maids are you not? " Sylvia turned to him in embarrassed shock, as did John. "That was out of line man." John turned to stare at him coldly, the warm smile gone from his face. Jim turned guiltily away from John's stare, and then glared at Sylvia behind his back. His eyes seemed to silently scream, 'Get back in your place -in the kitchen!' He's as nasty and condescending as Mrs Crenshaw, she thought to herself. They should have gotten married! As soon as John excused himself to go to the bathroom, Jim came up and deliberately handed her a tray of dirty glasses. "I believe you know where these go" He said coldly. Sylvia looked at him. She was thinking to herself: 'how bout you shove them up your ass! ' but she didn't say it. Instead, she took the tray and headed back to work.... Luckily the evening was almost over, because she was not able to get away from John the rest of the night. He kept turning up and trying to talk to her while she worked, and Mrs Crenshaw made it clear she was not happy about it. Sylvia found out that he was a pediatrician and had been divorced for several years. He told her all about his patients and how funny they were. He seemed to really love kids. She wanted desperately to talk to him some more but Mrs Crenshaw was giving her the death glare. So she told John she would talk to him later and trudged upstairs to put the baby to bed. Lena followed her up. She was running her mouth non-stop in the background, as Sylvia tucked Bianca in.
"You won't be able to dodge my brother! she laughed. "The Crenshaw men are known for getting what they want." Sylvia turned to her, shaking her head. "Don't be ridiculous, he just wanted to talk about stuff he-" Lena cut her off. "He can talk about stuff with any one of the 1ooo women chasing him in his office-No, I know my brother. When he made me promise to grab you and introduce him, I knew he was interested." Sylvia was shocked, puzzled, and just a little hopeful. "but what would he want with me? He's so handsome and I'm so..." "Adorably cute!" Lena finished for her. she grabbed Sylvia's arm and led her to the mirror. Sylvia was stunned to realize the uniform was beginning to hang on her! She was losing weight with all the constant running around, and she hadn't even noticed. As she looked closer she could also see that the dark circles around her eyes were almost gone, along with the slack, tired skin. She'd been forced to eat lots of fruits and veggies in order to have the stamina to work two jobs, and the difference in her skin was amazing! Not to mention how much stress was relieved by not having to squeeze every penny until it screamed. She shook her head at the woman in the mirror, in delighted amazement. "wow! I'm not nearly as pretty as you or Mrs Crenshaw, but I don't look half bad! she whispered happily. "you're as pretty as anybody else!" Lena said, as sternly as her gentle voice would allow. She seemed to be deep in thought for a moment. " Alexis really is quite pretty isn't she? She said softly. Too bad she....." She let her voice trail off. Sylvia turned to her. " too bad she what Lena? -does this have anything to do with why she hates me? I need to know- why does she hate me, what did I do to her? " She watched a myriad of emotions cross Lena's face as she turned away. She seemed to think about it a long moment before answering. "She thinks you're her karma." she said quietly, turning back. " What.... What do you mean?" Sylvia leaned in and listened close. Lena looked more and more uncomfortable as if fighting with herself whether or not to tell Sylvia something, finally she sighed, as she reached out to touch the baby's soft brown cheek.

"My brother Thomas was married before". She began. "His first wife was named Sylvie." Sylvia gasped, then nodded for her to continue. She had a baby girl by C-section and then suffered complications. The baby had severe breathing problems and lived only for I day, as I remember. Then then she died. My brother was horribly distraught, almost inconsolable. Anyway, While Sylvie was trying to recover, and work through the death of her baby. Along came Alexis. She worked her way into his life under the guise of helping him through his grief. But Before he knew what happened, Alexis had gotten pregnant with Tiffany. Then she made sure Sylvie found out about it. Sylvie filed for divorce and left the state, and Alexis got my brother. When she saw you, especially with your name, you reminded her of her own sins and that's why she hates you-she's scared you came to do to her what she did to Sylvie" Sylvia let her breathe out in a whoosh. that was alot to take in. To think that Mrs Crenshaw had stolen Mr Crenshaw from another woman who had just lost her baby! She shook her head at Lena. "I shocked that she would do that- but, I don't believe in Karma she said firmly. " I believe people grow and change, most times for the better". Lena shrugged. "Well I believe in karma, but I wish I didn't because I sure have done some shady, sneaky, low down things in my life!" Sylvia giggled, she just couldn't imagine Lena doing shady, sneaky things. She reached down into the crib to kiss Bianca's soft baby cheek -and froze! At first her mind did not register what was wrong but then it hit her! Bianca was not breathing! A piercing scream split the air. Sylvia didn't realize it was coming from her until Lena grabbed her, and slapped her face. "What's wrong with you -screaming in that poor baby's ear! have you lost-" Sylvia yanked hard on her sleeve and pointed toward the crib. Bianca's chest was NOT rising! "Oh my God! Lena shrieked, backing away in horror. Then she was screaming as well. Then everything seemed to happen in slow motion. In seconds people flew into the nursery. Then Alexis was there, grabbing her limp baby and screaming at the top of her lungs. "Oh no, it's coming true, " she screamed. "God killed my baby because of what I did!" She collapsed to the floor on top of the still body of the baby, screaming wildly. She was impervious to the fact that John was trying to get to the baby in time to save her life. "Move Alexis, Dammit! " He commanded. "I've only got seconds to save her life!" Grabbing a grief stricken -nearly incoherent Alexis from the floor, he literally threw her into his brother's arms so he could work on Bianca. Sylvia watched fearfully. They had lost precious time talking about her mother -how long had the baby been out? Wasn't Lena stoking her cheek only moments ago? Then Alexis had come in and cost them even more precious seconds! Would John be able to save her? She looked toward The Crenshaws, they were both white as ghosts, even dark skinned Alexis looked almost as pale as her husband. He seemed to be trying to hold his wife up with a strength he didn't possess at the moment. Sylvia saw his lips moving as his red rimmed eyes looked upward. She knew he was sending up a cogent prayer, begging for the life of his child. But Mrs Crenshaw was looking directly at her! Her dark luminous teary eyes were filled with hatred and suspicion. Sylvia felt the first inkling of fear for herself. She knew beyond a shadow of a doubt if little Bianca didn't make it, Mrs Crenshaw would somehow blame her, and make her pay!....She felt like she was in a nightmare. Every precious second that slipped past felt like hard hail pummeling her helpless body. With nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide. And the baby's life slipping away!........


Find out if baby Bianca survives, and what happens to Sylvia in: The final chapter of: Donnely Place 451 thank y'all for tuning in see you next post...

Donnely Place Part 1.

This is a story- portrait of what life can easily end up being if we don't take charge, and make imperative marriage choices with great care and caution. I think we all know that marrying the wrong man is one of the fastest ways to reach hell on earth. But what about the havoc created for your children. What about the long term consequences, and the irreparable damage done to one's self esteem and psyche. This story attempts to illustrate a glimpse into the life of one woman who's one bad decision almost cost her everything.....


Sylvia turned the key and entered the dark rickety apartment. Her small 7 year old, Tia, was right behind her. She was struggling under the load of potatoes from the local food kitchen. Sylvia's heart lurched. She hated her baby having to carry charity potatoes and walk up 4 flights of stairs to their apartment at 451 Donnely Place. Unfortunately, she couldn't carry them because she had to hold onto her new baby, Abagail. She sighed as she switched on the overhead light and laid abbey in a blanket covered drawer that served as her bed. She thought about putting it on the table to keep the roaches off the baby, but the danger of Tyshon storming through and knocking it off, stopped her. Work all day, and then pick up the kids to put them to bed in a house so old and rotted it made her sick to look at it. She wondered how it had come to this. When she was young she had so many dreams. None of them resembled this nightmare. She silently watched Tia head for the fridge hoping against hope there would somehow be food. She watched her face fall as it always did when she found next to nothing inside. "S'okay baby " She murmured. "I'ma squeeze some money from m' chec this week an we'gon get some food ok?" Tia nodded. Her sweet little brown face looking downcast and unsure. Suddenly she brightened. "Momma, kin we have some tatas and eggs?" Sylvia jumped up. "Oh! I forgot about the eggs " She cried happily. She ran to the baby's old stroller that had been pulled from the trash and found the eggs in the bottom basket, perfectly intact. She sighed in relief as she made eggs and potatoes for Tia and herself. Tia smiled gratefully as the plate was set before her. She's so precious. Sylvia thought to herself. She was always so happy with so little, but Sylvia was sagging with regret.
Why God why, didn't I listen to ol Ms Brown back in the day? She wondered to herself. She told me to look for two very important things. A good college and a good man. She warned me not to get pregnant by a sorry man or me and my kids would suffer that mistake for years! At the time Sylvia had not paid any mind. Ms Brown was an old woman with old ways and old values. What did she know? But now in the light of day 17 years later. Sylvia could see how horribly right Ms Brown had been. She had met her man Tyshon and been swept off her feet. His words had been so sweet back then. Before she knew what hit her, he had managed to sweet talk her out of her inhibitions and and her panties, and she had gotten pregnant with David. Along the way she had managed to get a ring from him in exchange for her giving up college and agreeing to go to work full time. That had turned out to be a horrible decision. Tyson had no more interest in being a husband and father than he did in being faithful. He ran the streets all day, had a violent temper and spent them into the poor house. Sylvia had barely managed to save their apartment twice after he'd found the rent money and used it on cheap wine and cheaper women. He'd been such a horrible father, that Sylvia was almost grateful that David had gone to live with her father vowing to never return. She had prayed and prayed that he would change, but the only result had been more children and more worries. She was only 35 years old. Yet she looked old before her time and more like her sad and dejected mother every day. Her once vibrant brown caramel colored skin was now tired and leathery looking. Her lovely slanted dark and mysterious eyes that once seemed to have a hidden secret, now looked like desecrated graves. She worked 50 hours a week and barely saw her two remaining children. Her husband spent money faster than she could bring it in and there was no one to talk to. In her community you didn't complain about your man. Too many women simply saw this as betrayal or bragging, since so many women were manless, and angry. I'd almost be better off manless! Sylvia thought to herself as she watched Tia scarf down her food. The tic of the clock almost caused Tia to jump out of the chair in fright. "honey, it's ok. " She told her. "It's jus the clock, it ain't daddy" Tia's tiny body relaxed ever so slightly and she finished off the plate. She knew better than to ask for more. They had to make food last in the Williams household. She put her dishes in the cracked sink and hugged her momma.
Sylvia held her tightly wishing to God she could turn the clock back, and searching her mind for a way to get her remaining babies out of this hell. She couldn't afford to move as she barely made enough to pay the bills now. She didn't have the first, and last month rent plus security deposit and moving expenses, it would cost to run. All this went through her head as she gave Tia a brave smile. "Go to bed and say your prayers ok?- Momma loves you baby" Tia smiled up at her. " I love you too Momma, " She answered solemnly. But her little face looked frightened and confused. Sylvia watched her wrap her coat tighter around her thin shoulders as she headed toward the small, cold back room....The only thing colder than the ugly, delapidated apartment, was her hope of escape.....

The next day at Ocean Side Medical Clinic, Sylvia patiently explained to a new patient, that her insurance had not sent the referral. Dr. Lucas would not see her without it. Sylvia explained that she could pay for the 900.00 treatment now, and seek a reimbursement but that Ocean Side could not guarantee that she would receive it. The girl waved the problem away, and opened her purse. Sylvia watched in amazed envy as she counted out nine 100 dollar bills, and handed them to her. The girl was young, pretty and white. She's probably never known a hard day in her life! Sylvia thought angrily. She handed the money to the cashier, then grabbing the chart, led the girl to a back office. The building was newly renovated with all the latest amenities, central air and brand new carpeting. A far cry from my building Sylvia thought ruefully as she took the girl's
temperature and vital signs. "Do you know anyone who's looking for part time, night time work?" The girl asked suddenly. Even her voice was light and carefree. Sylvia glanced at her chart and saw that her name was Lena. "What kind of work? She asked sullenly, certain that she would not qualify. "Well, it's really easy, see it's my sister in law she's just had a baby and her regular house keeper is in Mexico visiting her sick mother. She won't be back for at least 3 months. In the meantime they need someone reliable to come and clean the house and fix a meal while she recuperates from her C-section, which will take about 6-8 weeks. They have a morning girl but she can only stay for breakfast. They need someone at night. It pays 200.00 per week for just a few hours per day. do you know anyone who might be interested?" Sylvia could hardly contain her excitement. Did she! Oh God, she needed that job! "Uh, well...."What are the hours -and where is it located?" She began to fire questions at Lena like an interogation unit. When Lena gave her the information, she breathed excitedly. " I could do it until her girl gets back. " She stammered quickly, trying not to appear too anxious. "Well bring your references tomorrow night Lena told her. She wrote the address on a sheet of loose leaf and gave Sylvia more details along with directions to the house. Sylvia was so excited she barely felt the remaining work hours. Oh, God I hope someone doesn't get my job! She worried. She desperately needed that money. Tia's shoes were so small her toes were coming through, and the baby was not tolerating her milk and the Doctor had told her, she would have to switch her to a very expensive special brand. that 2oo.00 per week would be a lifesaver! Not to mention, she could finally save something to move with. She swallowed her excitement, and forced herself to keep working....

She told Tyshon about it that night, asking him if he would watch the kids while she took the second job. She knew if he refused she would have to pay Ms Moppet to do it, and she wanted to save that money. She didn't tell him the most important reason for needing the job was 'get away money' She had decided no matter what, she had to take her kids and run. She finally faced the fact that life was never going to get any better with him. She hated to leave them with him even a couple of hours, but she was desperate. Her happy thoughts of escape were interrupted by Tyshon slamming down his beer. "Oh so you wanna go to the big house and clean fo tha white foks huh" Well, I ain't watchin nobody! These yo kids -I got better thangs t'do than watch these damn kids and you ain't takin no job no way. I needs you here to fix my plate." Sylvia stared at him. His skin was pockmarked and gray from just not giving a damn. His teeth were so bucked, they resembled a can opener, and his clothes were dirty and strewn with some disgusting substance she did not dare identify. But the worst was his breath, which reminded her of old collard greens. She turned away, her stomach feeling queasy. What the hell had she ever seen in this greasy gremlin! Somebody should have knocked the sh*t outta me! She thought wryly. I was obviously too young and stupid to make a sound decision or I would'nt of brought home this ..... pork belly! She pondered for a long minute on how to get him to agree to let her agree to take the job. "Honey" She purred, swallowing her revulsion, and rubbing his big disgusting budda stomache. "If I don't take it-I can't buy you more beer and that expensive chicken you like because they've cut my hours at work. " She watched his face as she told this lie, holding her breath. He seemed to think it over, knowing he would do what was best for him. Finally he smiled with his teeth of many colors, and squinted at her. " I wants you in da moment you gets off dammit! -Don't be givin da white folks no extra time neitha!" And don't forget to bring me beer on the way back-and hell nah, I ain't watchin these damn kids. Leave em wit Ms Muppet!" "Uh.. that's Ms Moppet, Tyshon. " "Whatever" he growled. He had already turned away and was eating his sandines like they were going to get up and run away, Oblivious to what his family would have for dinner......

When Sylvia finally found the house on the beautiful subdivision she felt like she'd stepped into the twilight zone. The houses were large and beautiful, the lawns expansive, green and manicured, and the streets were wide and clean. So clean it almost looked fake. She rang the bell at 215 Cachet hill and tried to quell her thudding heart. The door was expensive of heavy oak and ornately carved. Probably cost more than a month of rent, she noted. She had paid Ms Moppet to watch the girls with money she direly needed to get to work on. If this job did not pan out, she was in trouble. I hope these white people are nice, she thought hopefully. She had tried to fix herself up and look presentable, but years of neglect could not be corrected with a few curls and some expired night cream. She was wiping her sweating palms on her hand made skirt for the third time when the heavy oak door swung open. A large 6 ft plus white man stood staring down at her. He kinda looked like an executive with the expensive glasses and dark suit-minus the jacket. He had dark blond hair and teeth so white, he could do a commercial. Sylvia gulped. She felt so hand me down in her handmade skirt and 8 year old blouse. The man gave her a reassuring half-smile. "Please tell me you're the lady from the clinic who's going to help my wife until Sarita comes back!" His voice sounded desperate and tired. Sylvia felt renewed hope. "Yes, yes I am " she responded quickly. "Thank God! " He grabbed Sylvia's hand like she was going to run away. "Come in, please come in." While Sylvia took in a hallway larger than most of her apartment, he began to fill her in. " She 's recuperating." He told Sylvia as he rushed around. "She's in the sunroom getting some air now. We've got two kids and there's no way she can take care of them at this point. Don't bother with the resume I've already had you checked out." He was talking faster now. I need you to fix meals for her and the kids, and clean up a little. Nothing heavy, we have a morning person, but just a bit. And put the kids to bed - can you handle that?" Before Sylvia could speak he was talking again, telling her about his business and some kind of merger. He said he had to fly out and that the company car would be picking him up. He asked Sylvia if she could drive, and then showed her a 3 car garage with 3 brand new vehicles in it. He told her to use the station wagon for errands and to make sure she used the car seat for the baby. Sylvia barely had time to answer his questions as he was obviously in a rush to go somewhere. Finally he told her he would introduce her to his wife. They passed a large kitchen and darkened den with a fireplace, and entered a room to the right that was outdoors yet inside. The room was done in living room style with a couch and love seat and even carpet and cozily nestled around a large screen TV. "Honey. " The man said softly. "She's here."

Sylvia blinked and almost fell over in shock! A lovely black woman in her late twenties, with big brown eyes, and an angelic face was looking back at her! End of Part 1

See if Sylvia can turn her life around, and make it out of the hood in part 2. Thank y'all for tuning in ......

Why do some women have all the luck?

Ladies we will be exploring all the this blog why some women are treated as prizes and others are disrespected and just plain dissed. Yes I know some men are damaged and damaged men tend to treat certain women like garbage regardless but aside from that. Why do you think some women are usually treated so much better? Take these two examples.




There are 2 young ladies I know personally. We will call them Lisa and Janet. Lisa has been going with her boyfriend for several years and cannot get him to propose. Recently she came to me in tears and confessed that she had, had an abortion because it was what he demanded. Now this young lady is financially strapped and was not only forced to pay for the abortion by herself, but she was forced to go alone, as he refused, and she did not want anyone else to know. She felt tremendous guilt and said that she wanted the baby she had disposed of. To make matters worse now he was calling her a hoe and telling everyone that she had murdered his baby! She was sobbing and begging me to talk to him, she said she loved him and did not want to lose him.


"Lawd, what are these women thinking" I asked her why she did not seem to mind losing herself and she replied, "I'm nothing without him!" After trying to talk to her for a half hour, I gave up and advised her to seek counseling. Her shoulders sagged as she sat at her desk, meantime Janet bounded into the room her pretty face lit with excitement." Guess what she gushed John just asked me to marry him!" Lisa looked at her with near hate on her face and raged " Didn't Mike and Tony both try to marry you last year?' " What the hell is so great about YOU?' Lisa was right both men had tried to marry Janet the previous year and yes Janet is quite pretty but both Lisa and I knew it was far more than that. We had seen men treat Janet like something out of a Victorian novel. Always pulling out chairs, fawning and treating her so special. We watched as Janet slipped quietly from the room, then Lisa turned to me. "Sara, why she's won't even hardly do anything for him! She's always on the go, spending his money, and acting like her sh*t don't stink!" "why is she do lucky?" I just looked at her and shook my head I could have told her but I had a feeling she really was not ready to hear it. (Are You?-Find out in the next post....