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Sweet Potato Queen Parade or Bust




 OK, I have something exciting to share!  Raise your hand if you have ever heard of the "Sweet Potato Queen" herself, Jill Conner Browne? Did you ever read any of her eight books?...the first one being, "The Book of Love"? Just nod yes or no. .... 


Well, I have to admit, I heard of her (way back) and I never read any of her books.  I was much to serious and intellectual for that.....REALLY! How could I have overlooked her and her queenly insights about life as a woman?  Because of Jill, I am truly (no tongue in cheek here) a better and happier woman!


I rediscovered Ms. Sweet Potato Queen (Jill Conner Browne) at the Junior League Luncheon at the Merry Market in Odessa, Texas 2009.  She was the speaker for this event and boy did she speak?!  She spoke to my heart.  Before she completed her queenly speech, she had me... crown, feather boa, and bling to boot! For whatever reason, I wanted to attend the Queens' Parade in March of 2010, in Jackson, Mississippi with all my heart and I said it out loud.....


Admittedly, I drank a glass of wine (or 2)  that night and decided I should email my friends and tell them we needed to participate in the Sweet Potato Queen Parade in Jackson MS in March. I really thought they would all think I was crazy and they would ignore yet another crazy email from their friend the "Funky Art Queen" and that would end another Funky Art Queen idea.  


But Before I knew it, I had a small group of friends that wanted to join in and really, really be Queens at the Sweet Potato Queen Parade!  Initially, I was going to be the "Funky Art Queen" by myself at the parade....then, my group of friends decided we should be the "Blingin' Bitches of Texas".  I love that!  



Now, there are 5 of us "Blingin' Bitches of Texas" preparing to attend the March 2010 Parade. We are plotting and preparing......and so obsessed with this.  Why? Why are we participating in this crazy and silly event?  Well, I asked my fellow Blingin' Bitches of Texas friends this question last night at a meeting. 


We decided that this is a gift to ourselves.  As women, we take care of everyone else constantly to the point that we are exhausted.....and  after many years of doing this......we have collectively decided that it is our turn!  Life is short....so very short......and though we love our families and friends and would do anything for them....we must take a moment in time for ourselves......a break, a time of healing and bonding......so that we can continue to take care of our loved ones.  


I want to offer up this very funny lady author to you.  Please say you will at least consider buying some of her books.  Start with the first one like I did.  Then check out her calendar and go to one of her speaking engagements and you will totally understand what I am trying to tell you.


Anyway, I'm so in.  I have ordered my parade dress and my majorette boots and I can't tell you how giddy I was when the boots arrived.  I was never a majorette or drill team member....Now I am dang it.  So, keep in touch and I will keep you posted on all of the festivities and lessons for life.  Hugs! XOXO


And Please let me brag for a moment about that banner made for the Blingin' Bitches by Wings Dove Design at Etsy.  She works very hard to get exactly what you want.  So if you need a fine looking new banner for your blog go see her and tell her I sent ya!

Comments

Susan said…
I'm no Sweet Tater Queen, but I still have my majorette boots from high school days. If I recall correctly, don't those queens have to whisper elusive promises in the ears of certain boys? I'm just say'in y'all better be ready.
Deb said…
Sounds like a blast! Looking forward to hearing more! I'll keep my eyes peeled for the books!
itsamissy said…
HI!! I saw y'all at the parade today and got a hug from one of you ladies when I said I was from Midland too. I would LOVE to get to know y'all better and maybe even march with ya next year!!
itsamissy said…
HI!! I saw y'all at the parade today and got a hug from one of you ladies when I said I was from Midland too. I would LOVE to get to know y'all better and maybe even march with ya next year!! My name is Melissa and my email is itsamissy@yahoo.com.

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