BULLIES: Surviving The Pain & Winning In Life!

BULLY: DEFINITION

noun, plural bullies.
1.a blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person who habitually badgers
and intimidates smaller or weaker people.

2.a person hired to do violence.

3.a pimp; procurer. verb (used with object), bullied, bullying.

1.to act the bully toward; intimidate; domineer. verb (used without object), bullied, bullying.

1.to be loudly arrogant and overbearing.
Synonyms

6. cow, browbeat, coerce; terrorize, tyrannize.

British Dictionary definitions for bully

1.

a person who hurts, persecutes, or intimidates weaker people

2.

(archaic) a hired ruffian

Before Facebook and Twitter...before the Internet and Cell phones..there were BULLIES. For thousands of years there have been Bullies. We hear about it more now, than ever before, because of the Internet. However, Bullies are not a new thing. And there are different types of Bullies. As you can see in the definition above, they come in all forms.

Dianna posted a kick off to a new project called #DD4LFansAgainstBullies. This was in response to a Young Fan, she was communicating with. She is a victim of bullying. She has gotten to the point of wanting to commit suicide. Dianna has been telling her how important it was, for her to see, how much folks cared. We hope that everyone has been posting the hashtag above, on the status updates to spread the word. We also hope that if YOU KNOW someone dealing with bullying, you will share this story of survival. There is hope.

I don't know how old this fan is but I wanted to send a special shout-out to her. YOU ARE NOT ALONE...YOU CAN SURVIVE & WIN! No matter what you think you look like or who you think you are...YOU ARE IMPORTANT! That’s why we wanted to tell the story of, a Survivor of Bullying.

She started life in a time when there were no computers or cell phones. When girls were told to stay in their place and not cause trouble. When life was supposed to be simpler and more open and honest. But her world was full of constant fear. Each day brought tears and untold feelings that never went away. As the sun rose in the sky each morning, she would wake up, wondering, what she would have to do that day, to avoid the people, who always seemed to be in the shadows, waiting to torture her.

From the drunken, tirades of her mother, who seemed to only call her by the horrible name she had given her, years before, to the brother, who lived to make her life miserable, to the kids at school, who talked about her family, under their breath and teased her unmercifully . Each morning, she just wanted, to not wake up and to not have to deal with the day. But each time, she knew, she had no choice but to just stand up and face it. Living in a time when suicide was considered a sin and kids just didn't do stuff like that, killing herself was never an option.

She knew she wanted to live and she knew there were people who cared and who loved her, even though it seemed they weren’t paying attention. She just didn't know how to get the support she needed. By age 12 and 1/2, her life, was to the point of total chaos. The abuse and bullying by her Mother had escalated into physical abuse and her brother's level of abuse had increased to regular sexual abuse. The only place she had always felt safe, was gone. Her grandmother had passed and she was on her own to either fight or to just accept it and to know that by accepting, her life would probably be over.

But just like all the times before, her heart told her to fight. To fight with everything she knew. Once accepting that she was not going to take it and that she was willing to do whatever it took to come out of it, her mind was made up. After yet one more fierce episode with her Mom and yet one more bad outcome, she packed what she could carry and walked away from this horrible world. A world that had made her more than ready, to move forward to something else.

Her hope of being totally free from bullying with this drastic move, appeared to be closer than ever. But with life and with bullies, just moving away or running away, doesn't guarantee that you are free of bullying. There are bullies everywhere. They are everywhere because bullies come from situations where they have problems too. Going to an Orphanage, makes that truth more reality, than most folks can absorb.

There are hundreds of kids, all pulled from the only families they have known, thrown together with untrained adults, trying to monitor everybody and everything. The bullying combinations become endless.

Her shyness and lack of self-confidence, made her an instant target & her newly, blossoming body made her even more vulnerable. The bullying seemed to take on a different form in the children's home. She didn't feel the threatening family connection anymore but felt like she was out in the middle of a war, all on her own, with no one to tell or ask for help. She knew that she had to learn to take care of herself and to defend herself, if she was going to survive.

It seemed like 4 years took 10, to her. It finally seemed like she had made it...like she had overcome the bullies and the bad people in her life. Graduation was being set free from prison. She felt strong and sure that she would never have to go through being bullied and abused ever again.

Then she met him. The one thing, she had never encountered in her life. A man, who both stole her heart and shook her world. He was handsome and strong and had all of the right conversations. But he too was a bully. He too, had his way of intimidation and domineering ways. He too was living through his own set of problems. He too wanted the control and power that bullying gives people. Through 16 years of beatings and abuse and degrading, name calling, along with putting her on the street to make money, she succumbed to the bullying. She had been taught that you get married, you have children, you stay until they are grown. So she spent those years, thinking, yet again, she was trapped and there was no way out of the horror, she had allowed. Her children were her saving grace and she clung to that as much as she could.

It would seem, with her life getting turned totally upside down, there would never be a chance to get out of the abuse, she had accepted for so long. Drug abuse...beatings...forced behavior and exploitation appeared to be the final chapter of her life. She was to the bottom of the barrel and at the end of her rope. She had allowed herself to be bullied for so long, she no longer wanted to fight. She only wanted it to stop. She just wanted to be at peace and to be finished with her crazy, out of control life. For the first time in her entire life, she felt her only option was to do what so many were doing. To take her own life. To end the pain and the torture and to give up on trying to be happy or to be okay.

As she stood waiting for the end of her life to be full filled, she prayed what she thought was her final prayer. She asked God to forgive her for being weak and to take care of her family and her children. While she prayed that final prayer, she began to feel a peace in her heart, she had never felt before. But the peace didn't come from knowing her life was about to end, it came from relief that she wouldn't have to be that person anymore....relief from living in terror every single day.

But God wasn't ready for her to go and the next step she made, changed the course of her life forever. Like turning on a light in a dark room, the words she heard, made her realize that she was valuable and important...if to no one else but God...she was worthy of being alive. She heard in her heart, God say, " I make no mistakes and you are valuable to me. Lean on me child, You still have work to do. Know that I will carry you until you are strong again!"

As the tears poured down, the fear went away and the courage, she remembered from so long ago, began to come back. She walked away from the abuse. She declared her freedom from bullying and her freedom from the chains of feeling like she wasn't good enough to be part of this life. She started her journey to becoming the person, God brought her here to be.

Through the years, she has crossed the paths of Bullies, many times. She has dropped her guard but has never again wavered in her promise to NEVER allow ANYONE to make her feel unworthy or unloved again. Because of that promise, she has become strong and confident and capable of standing up to anyone who threatens to Bully or Intimidate or Abuse, who she is.

After years of working on being who she is today, she has also influenced the people around her. Her children, her grandchildren, her friends and family all know she is tough and she don't play about bullying. This has encouraged them to stand up against bullies themselves and to be the protectors of those they meet who appear to be victims. Her confidence that no matter, what she looks like, she is a beautiful person and no matter the opinions of others, she is a valuable part of this world, shows in the work she does and the life she lives.

Bullies are people who have problems themselves. But that doesn't give them permission to abuse others. Whether by the words said or the actions taken, bullying comes in many different ways. It is not okay. It is not funny. It is not cool. 

The girl in the story above is me. I grew up in an abusive, alcoholic family. I fought my brother off of me for years. I fought an abusive husband for over 16 years. I endured a mother who called me "Slut" instead of my name until I couldn't take it anymore.

But after years, when I got to the point of taking my own life, because I was so tired of hurting and feeling the pain I was feeling, I had a life changing event happen. I realized in those moments that no matter WHO you are,

YOU MATTER! GOD DON'T MAKE MISTAKES! YOU HAVE A PURPOSE!

It has been many years now and I am old. I haven't taken abuse or accepted it in my world for many years. Bullies haven't changed since I was a kid. The kids who called me names across the school yard or the intimidation from brothers and other people to make those who allow it do unspeakable things....none of that has changed...it has just evolved into different forms.

We now have instant bullying and instant pain shoveled out. Our kids and others who may not be kids, are trapped, in a pattern of abuse and bullying that sends them to the point of wanting to commit suicide...and many have done that. Young, precious lives taken because they felt no hope....They felt their lives didn't matter anymore…Grown folks, who were just too tired of dealing with other grown folks picking on them…

Our society has allowed bullying to not be a big deal and to let those that are the "BULLIES" get away with it for so long, those that are living through it, lose hope and feel they have no other way out. Changing that, like everything else, takes a village. It takes us recognizing bullying and helping those being bullied to overcome being a victim.

My generation said, get over it and move on....God only knows the victims of bullying from my era, who didn't make it. I was blessed to recognize the truth before, I didn't make it. I recognized that the folks who make our rules of what is acceptable and who is acceptable are inferior themselves and have no right to say who is good and who isn’t because of looks or circumstances.

For anyone who loves the Dancing Dolls and who is reading this article...KNOW THIS...

1.     The people picking on you, have many more problems than you do!

2.     There is no such thing as PERFECT! If they are being mean to you and "BULLYING" YOU...it’s because, they KNOW they are not PERFECT! They are also "undercover scaredy cats"! IF YOU CONFRONT THEM And LET THEM KNOW...YOU AREN'T SCARED OF THEM...they will back down and leave you alone!

3.     GOD DON'T MAKE MISTAKES! You were born for a reason! Even if you don't see a reason, there is one. Don't LEAVE Before You Figure It Out!

4.     All of those so-called BULLIES are just trying to find the same approval you are...they just do it by being mean and treating others badly.

5.     What You Put Up With...You End Up With! If you don't stand up now, you will have to put up with BULLIES your entire life. Life is hard enough without being bullied. 

6.     YOU ARE VALUABLE..YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL...YOU ARE NEEDED!

7.     YOU ARE NEVER ALONE...In today's world, all you have to do is connect to social media...there are millions that are ready to offer support, advice and comfort to those going through problems.

8.     NEVER GIVE UP ON YOURSELF! LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL, IF YOU JUST KNOW HOW LOVED YOU REALLY ARE!

The Doll Effect

We have closed the door on Season 2A of Bring It. We have watched 5 beautiful young women, go from being kids to being grown, moving into the next phase of their lives. We know from the latest statistics and ratings, Bring It, has been a huge success. Coming in 5th place for Social Engagement for TV Shows on Cable...for the shows airing the week of April 20th. Rentrak Stickiness Is One of The Top TV Ranking sites in the Entertainment World.
 Not to mention, blowing up Twitter several times, over the course of this Season. Any reasonable thinking person, would have to say....The Dolls Are ROCKIN IT, across America and in many parts of the World. This Blog has been read in Russia, Poland, UK, Jamaica and other places and has gotten over 10,000 views...so I know they are being seen all over.
http://www.rentrak.com/section/movies_and_tv_everywhere/top_entertainment_rankings.html#7

When Dianna and the Dolls first came on, we knew they were red hot, but I think folks wondered how far it would go. We were amazed at their dancing and their talent but after the first few shows, we all realized that it was more than just dancing. There was Mama Drama...Dianna showing us how Coaching works and the amazing transformation of everybody in the Dollhouse Dance Factory family.

The underlying attraction to the show was thousands and thousands of young girls, watching regular girls, like themselves, doing something great and succeeding at it. Something that has given them ambition and dedication, in their own lives. We are going to name it, the "Doll Effect". I have watched it in my own granddaughter. When she first saw Bring It, she was hooked. When I asked her about it, the first words from her mouth...was, "Yea, Ms Dianna don't play about dancing"!...LOL..

She has participated in the Dance Camps, been my riding buddy down to Mississippi, to see them in person and is signed up for the Dallas Camp in July. Her goal is to play basketball and go to college, but her love of dancing, has been the motivator for many other things in her life. She has seen, if you are willing to go for your dreams, you can do anything. I am sure this has been, the same reaction many young girls have had. The "Doll Effect" has taken a hold in the lives of many and is motivating many.

I don't know if Dianna KNEW, when she started this whole TV Show journey, she would have such a huge impact, on so many lives. She knows, what she does, works for the girls that physically come through the Dollhouse, but I am not sure she has grasped, just how big this whole thing really is. Her recent trip to South Africa was probably a huge clue, but being humble and never self gratifying, she wouldn't take credit for just how much influence, she really has.
And not just her influence, but the whole Mother-Daughter relationship playing out on TV, is a huge influence factor. How often do we see real life Mothers and Daughters dealing with real life issues. And these Moms aren't Hollywood and rich. These Moms are just as down to earth and everyday folks as you or I. We have fallen in love with who they are and how much they love their families. We watch them struggle with fame and with the many things being on TV has created in their lives. Both good and bad. So many of us can identify with their lives, before Bring It and how they must be feeling, learning to live, in this exciting new life.

I enjoy the excitement and fun that Bring It, brings each week. I enjoy the great conversations on the Social Media sites, about the show. It has been a blast to meet many of the cast and to get to know them over the last year and some months, through Social Media. It has all been a wild ride, but for me, the memories and the things that will last are the wonderful lessons and the beauty of watching girls blossom, into strong young women. Women who are ready for the world and what it will throw at them. Those are the things that keep me watching this show... The "Doll Effect"!

We know that Bring It isn't slowing down and would appear to be picking up even more steam. Season 2B is just around the corner. We are all anticipating more fun plus lots of new things happening. With new Co-Captains taking the floor and girls graduating from the Baby Dolls, we know the dancing is going to be bigger and better than ever. We also know, we will all be neck deep in the business of the Dolls. Watching and loving them...getting new favorites and defending and bragging on Social Media...anything DD4L.

It has been an amazing journey, for the Williams Family of Jackson Mississippi and for the entire Dollhouse Factory Family. I foresee a much more exciting ride to come.  I also see many more wonderful memories for the girls and for the thousands of fans, that love being there on Friday Nights. The "Doll Effect" has taken America by Wildfire...and continues to burn into the hearts and homes of us all. We can hardly wait for Season 2B, but will watch reruns and post pics on Social Media, to hold us over, until July. We pray for Dianna and the girls, as well as the DDP. Being on TV looks easy but when you see the things they deal with, you know it isn't. We hope they know, we will always support you and defend you. Thanks for what you do...The Doll Effect &  DD4L...Are YOU READY?

Dancing Doll Graduation: Turning The Page

For over a year, we have been glued to our TV's on Bring It night. We have watched young girls, go from being kids to being amazing young women. No one thought we would fall in love with them, like we have. We have seen them cry, struggle, dance their butts off, fight through the pain and learn to accept loss. All the while, cheering them on like they were our own.

Each one has brought a special kind of joy to our own lives. They came into our homes and stole our hearts. We have protected them online, as if we had raised them ourselves. Professing our DD4L dedication and love daily. Whether Kayla, Sunjai, Akia, Dominique or Brandye...we have tuned in and turned up, to see them on Lifetime TV.

Now, we are watching, as our beautiful DD4L family moves on to the next phase of their lives. Graduating and turning the page on their future. Each one has made us laugh and cry, as we watched them grow up and become stronger and more beautiful each week. We have an idea, of where some are headed, such as, Kayla, Sunjai & Akia are planning to go to different colleges. But, all of the girls are using experiences and lessons learned from the Dancing Dolls, to build their dreams. They all have plans that have been in the making, for a long time.

As we prepare to Congratulate & say Bye to our girls, we can't help but include the parents of the graduating class. Especially our DDP Moms. At this extremely, appropriate time of the year, Mother's Day, falling so close to graduation, we have to acknowledge the dedication and love shown by these Amazing Women. Being a parent is a difficult job, no doubt. We all struggle with choices and decisions, concerning our children. We all want them to have the best of everything and to have the best opportunities in the World.

The DDP Moms are like all of the Moms, we all know. They work, they raise their families, they cry and they struggle. They are always doing everything within their power, to be sure, their child didn't fall between the cracks. No matter the amount of money or the numerous hours of no sleep, they get the job done...everyday!



It has been an amazing journey to watch this unfold on TV. After getting to know several of the DDP personally, over the last year, I have come to have tremendous respect and love for them. Of course, we see the "SHOW" each week. The stuff, the Producers think will make it more exciting, but the true experiences, are the true facts. Facts like: Mom's who aren't handed everything, on a Silver Platter. Another one, such as fund raising events, other children to take care of, long bus rides, dance fees and more.....all the while, making DD4L, the talk of the World & never missing a beat, turning these girls, into Fabulous Women.

One of the first articles I wrote, for the blog, was about the advantages of girls being involved in dancing, because of some criticism, put out by some naysayers, about the Dolls.  I said, it gives them the tools to be adults. It  makes them strong, capable, independent, young women, with the dedication and courage, to take on anything they may encounter, in life.

We are witnessing that happen on TV, in front of our eyes. While we are entertained, most who watch, recognize the beauty of seeing these young women, bloom. We all can look at these ladies and feel where they are, in their lives. Graduating high school and looking forward to dreams that will bring them the happiness, we all are searching for, at that age. Everything being a new and exciting experience. It's like deja vu, for many of us older fans and for those who are younger and not there yet, it is like an news flash of where they can go, in their quest to follow a dream.
While we are honoring our DDP. we have to put the Mom, we all know & love, at the top of the pile. We all know that leadership is the key to raising successful adults. Dianna has been a huge part of the equation. She has helped to make every step the girls have taken, a step to their future. The respect and love that is shared in the Dollhouse, is the glue that has helped these young women go for their dreams. She is truly a shining example of taking charge of your life and taking control of your future. Hats off to Ms. Dianna for being the person and woman she is.

We all love to watch her, as she teaches these beautiful young girls, how to be strong and successful women. I  know, over all of the years of teaching and nurturing these girls, Dianna feels like she is just as much their MOM as their own MOM'S do. She has hugged them when they needed hugs...scolded them, when she thought they needed that instruction and has picked them up when they fell. She has never let them down and has been there for them over and over. Though tough, she has always shown them the deep felt love that she has for all of the girls that come through the doors of the Dollhouse. The saying, "It takes a village to raise children", is truly, a reality in the Dollhouse family.

Bring It, has been an amazing show. It has been exciting and entertaining for us all. But we have all grown to feel like they are a part of our own lives. We cheer them on, we are sad when they lose, and we hope for the best, for them. Though many will never actually meet any of the Dolls, in person, they still feel connected and care about what happens to them.
We all feel connected to them either through our own love of dancing or through watching our own children and grandchildren, strive to be like Kayla or Sunjai. A goal that has been renewed weekly on Bring It. They have had a monumental impact on thousands of young girls across the country and even in other countries.

As we Turn The Page with our Dolls and watch these wonderful, beautiful young women, move to the next phase of their lives, we all pray for them and wish them love, happiness and success. We also pray for their Moms and families. A Special Mother's Day wish to all of the DDP this year. Kids growing up and leaving is tough, but we know you will be fine.

You are Turning The Page, as well. Watching your babies move foward, making big decisions and holding your hand less and less. This means YOU did an AMAZING JOB...ALL OF YOU! You worked hard and you lost sleep and you cried through the pain to put these WOMEN out in the World. 
CONGRATULATIONS KAYLA, AKIA, SUNJAI, BRANDYE & DOMINIQUE! 

CONGRATULATIONS DDP MOMS! WE SALUTE YOU! 

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY-YOU HAVE EARNED IT! 

We have loved watching you and we wish you all the best! #DD4L #DDP #BDD #DDSNATION !...

PUT YOUR STAMP ON THE WORLD LADIES! 

WE WOULD LIKE TO SEND A SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY SHOUT OUT TO THE MAMA WHO STARTED THIS JOURNEY, WE ARE ALL GETTING TO GO ON...DIANNA WILLIAMS...YOU ARE MOTHER TO SO MANY! GOD HAS PLACED YOU IN A SPECIAL PLACE! THANKS FOR BEING A SHINING EXAMPLE OF WHAT A WOMAN CAN ACCOMPLISH, AS WELL AS HOW SPECIAL THE LOVE OF A MOTHER CAN BE!

Putting Jackson's "Country Ass" On The Map

Well, we know, we are almost finished with Season 2A, of Bring It. Last weeks show was one of the most entertaining, this season. It was exciting from start to finish.

The Stand Battle was between the Dancing Dolls and the Purple Diamonds. Jackson, Mississippi's, two best Dance Teams. With two losses to PD already, everybody knew it was going to be a kick ass or go home, kind of day. Dianna's confidence never wavered...she stood tough and portrayed that confidence, to the team...no losing...no doubts. Purple Diamonds has a Coach that can be as tough as Dianna. She don't play and she works those girls hard, until their routines are perfect. She was just as confident, that the PD would be going home with the trophy.

This show, put Kayla in the position of being the one to answer, whatever PD was bringing. We know this will be her last year as a Dancing Doll, but are hoping, she will continue to be a part of the Dollhouse. Ms. Dianna used this episode, last week, as a stepping stone for her future. She put Kayla in the position of leading the Dolls, as if she were Dianna. It was obvious Dianna trusts her and is allowing her to show, what she can do. It came down to tears, but Kayla got the job done. Her dedication to excellence, showed in the Stand Battle. It is beautiful to watch Kayla mature into the strong, independent, hard working woman, she is becoming.

Of course, there is always some sort of Mama Drama, happening. Lots of Mamas in one place...all wanting 'their babies' to be in the spotlight...some already moving on to bigger and better things but still caught up in the heat of the show and the moment. It is a continuing saga that promises to keep us entertained and on top, of the inside struggles, of these women. Stay tuned for Season 2B for things to get even hotter...I am curious to see where Ms Tina shows up, next Season.

But, the most entertaining and the biggest shock of the night was Ms. Traci from Miami SupaStarz, making her Grand Entrance. As you know, the SupaStarz were not performing, so as soon as she came strolling into the gym..you could feel the air get thick and blood beginning to boil..Dianna couldn't help but go check out, the reason behind this Nosey Nelly, showing up.
Just the look in their eyes, told the story...though they may be cordial and hang in the same places from time to time, there is deep competition that is fierce and constant.

It has been known, for a while, that Traci feels like Jackson Mississippi should have been in the movie Deliverance and the people who happen to come from there, are offsprings, from that movie. Comments have been made in the past about "Country Ass People," in reference to Dianna and Jackson. We have seen, Dianna is like the rest of us "Country Folks". She takes offense to people from the City or from "OTHER" places who try, to put them down. Coming from Big Ole Miami..she walked in with that "Big City" attitude showing, ready to attempt to put Dianna down, again.

Dianna met her at the door. I am thinking wait, hold up, where is Security?...We may be fixin to witness a Cat Fight, for real. But as most grown folks do, there was lots of sparking and lots of sharp claws showing, but cooler heads prevailed. Dianna point blank asked Traci what she was doing, showing up at the competition. Of course Traci don't back down either....she told Dianna she was checking out what the Dolls were doing. We know, with the Battle Royale coming, all of the competition is anxious to know what the Dolls are doing.

Dianna was quick and to the point with Traci. She told her, she hoped she enjoyed their "Country Ass" town. LOL! Right? I almost fell out of my chair when she told her that. If you are from the COUNTRY, anywhere in America, you have a Special Place in your heart for Country folks everywhere. But if you are not from Small town, country USA, you may be inclined to think like most ignorant folks do, that country folks are just stupid and backwards. They tend to talk slower like Country Folks, don't understand what they are saying and they treat us, like they need to read the instructions for us.

Probably, the fastest way to get your head snapped off with Country Folks, is to treat them like that. That's what Dianna did. She let Traci know, if you think we are stupid, then go ahead, but it would appear the Dumb Ole Country Ass Girl has put Dumb Ole Country Ass, Jackson Mississippi on the map. So now who looks dumb? I loved it. It is amazing to see people's faces when they realize, you are not as ignorant, as they thought.

Dianna and the Dancing Dolls continue to show the world that being "Country" has nothing to do with being intelligent or being savvy about business or life. She has went from a Small town Dance Studio Owner to a International Sweetheart, rockin Lifetime TV. Just a reminder for all those Big City Folks who were hatin and doubtin! We Country Ass Folks aren't living in the movie Deliverance and we didn't fall off any local Turnip trucks. LOL.

Well, get ready. The Battle Royale is coming..Don't miss anything! The Dolls are ready and able to put their final stamp of this season on the competition, especially the Miami SupaStarz

Tis The Season Of The Mama Drama!

And the Dolls have put their STAMP on Hot 'Lanta! They didn't take the 1st Place in Creative Dance, though, I thought the Creative Dance was fantastic. Not only was the Creative Dance exciting, the Mama Drama in this Episode, was Off The Chain.

It would seem this is the "Season Of The Mama Drama"! From the first episode, one Mama or the other has been mad, freaking out or talking trash about something. From beginning to end, it was non stop trash talking and action with these ladies. We wanted to try and sort it out, as best we could.

Let's break it down into individual issues and summarize from there.

1. Ms. Mimi: Though her name is Mimi, my name for her is Mama.

She is the first one to try and make you laugh or offer support or defend anything Dolls. She is too funny. And that Minnie Mouse knit cap is just too precious. Her Mama Drama is pretty much limited to making sure Camryn has everything she needs, to do what she does. She knows her well and she is always right there to support her. She has high expectations, for Camryn to be successful at her upcoming role in the Captain's position, once Kayla graduates.

Her confidence, last night, in Camryn's ability to step up to the Captain position, if Kayla couldn't do it, was a quiet confidence. She don't really just get in your face about how good Camryn is, but you see in her attitude, SHE knows and is waiting for the look on YOUR face, when you see it too. She never confronts Dianna about the ins and outs of her way of teaching. I think her Strong, Quiet way of dealing with everything, gets lots more accomplished, than yelling and screaming.

2. Ms. Tina: I totally identify with Tina.

You know from watching her, she is a tough lady. She is also Kayla's soulmate. They are like peas in a pod. They work very well together. Almost like sisters. Tina's, Mama Drama is totally about "What happens from here" and about Kayla getting every single chance to shine and advance! Kayla is graduating and considering college. That, for any parent, is stressful.

This, would appear to be even more stressful because of the connection to the Dancing Dolls and all of the things that have happened over the last year or so. Tina is trying to make sure Kayla gets the chance to participate, as much as she can with the Dolls, until she is no longer directly dancing with the team. This is compounded this week, by a leg injury. Though Kayla, was obviously in pain last night, she danced and she killed it. But just the thought, she may have to sit it out, was a huge deal for both her and Tina. It created several different avenues of  Drama throughout the DDP and with the girls.

Kayla didn't want to relinquish her chance to perform, but Camryn had made up her mind, if she had to take it and go, she could do it. Tina's relentless stretching and working with Kayla, eliminated any doubt about her ability, to put the pain out of her mind, and just do it.

3. Ms. Selena: (LONG..... SIGH......) This child is something else.

I have to say, being totally honest, I love Selena because she is persistent and dedicated to her family. However, she makes my head hurt. I just want to hug her and tell her, "Bless Your Heart"! Okay, but her Mama Drama is a long, drawn out, situation, we have been hearing from the start of the Season. Everybody knows Sunjai is graduating this year too. Actually, there are several young ladies graduating. But Selena is trying her best to get Sunjai in everything she can too.

This week was almost a knock down, drag out session with her though. She has accused Ms. D of many things over the last few weeks, including her not knowing the difference in the twins. But she was so mad last night, she was almost dancing out front of the Dollhouse. And at the competition, she was totally positive Sunjai would have been the recipe that won the Creative Dance.

We know Sunjai is very good, but it seems her practice results said, she couldn't do the walkover part of the routine. She seemed to be fine with that, but Selena was mad as a wet hen. Not sure I have seen her get quite that belligerent before, though she is surely going to express herself...always! And we surely have much more to see of this child before its over. The twins are shining and getting recognized more and more. We know Selena don't play about ANY of her children. LOL..So whatever she does, its about her dedication to her girls.

4.  Ms. Rittany: Okay, so the Mama Drama here is a Auntie/Mama Drama. Rittany's dedication to Crystianna is beautiful. She does so much to make sure Crystianna has every opportunity possible. A couple of weeks ago, we watched her tangle with Coach D over Crystianna's participation in cheerleading and other activities. Last week, she showed that #DD4L pride and love, when she broke down in tears over that horrible loss, we all watched go down. This week she was playing referee..LOL.
I think it has been a challenging experience for her, as well as the other Moms. The fast fame and the ongoing show, on top of the realities of life, threw everybody a curve ball. Their ability to adapt and thrive, has surely made for short patience and raw nerves. Rittany, though talking about potentially taking Crystianna to another team, has an undying loyalty to the Dancing Dolls. She will never convince me, she could ever leave.

5. Ms. Tawantza: Our newest Mama Drama lady. Tawantza came into the Show like a rocket. Her fiery attitude and total dedication to her daughter Zatia, matches any of the other parents for sure. She wants Zatia to have the opportunity to show how good she is, just like everyone else. But this girl is not going to sit around and wait for somebody to walk up and hand her a damn thing.

She is working hard to make sure her daughter is doing all the right things to succeed. Her alliance with Selena has been interesting to say the least. Her quickness to SAY, The other team nailed it, has created a firestorm of controversy on the Internet. Ms. Tawantza has hit the show like a lighting bolt. She hasn't slowed down in the least. We have yet to see just how much Mama Drama this young lady is going to bring, but we know we haven't seen the last of it.

Summary: So as we take a look at the Mama Drama on the TV Show, it makes you wonder what happens behind the scenes. What does the rest of the Mamas think and say about the whole thing. You know everybody wants their daughter to dance and be a part of the Show. They want the same opportunities, as the few that we see each week.

Do they express this out loud to anybody or are they just patiently waiting and hoping their child gets a chance? Now, there is some Mama Drama for you. All of those other girls who we see but never know who they are....behind the closed doors of their homes..are they coaching and encouraging their own girls to work harder and get better at dancing, so they might have the same chances as Kayla and the rest? Just like parents across the country, I am sure all of the DDP'S are doing whatever they can to offer support and opportunities to their kids.

We haven't seen the last of Mama Drama's on Bring It. It is just a natural part of the process. Where there are kids and Moms competing, there is going to be "Mama Drama"! I guess, as Supporters and Fans, it is our chance to see how human, they really are and to learn by example. Whether we feel that Selena is our example or Ms. Mimi...whichever one is your favorite, then you are going to feel they are doing it right. So cheer them on for the rest of the Season! It will be fun to see what happens. Stay Tuned DDS Nation!

Who Is Your Favorite Dancing Doll?

Since Bring It started last year, on Lifetime TV, it has created a swarm of controversy about who is the best dancer and who is the "Favorite" Doll. We have had many questions and comments about this subject. We thought now, would be a great time to talk about it.

The last few weeks on the show, we have seen many different emotional situations...Kayla making plans to leave the team and Camryn and Tamia competing for the open, Captain position. That decision was made by making them Co-Captains. For whatever reason, Dianna felt it was a better fit to handle it that way.
Last week we watched Coach D make the decision to NOT participate in the Captain Solo Dance because she thought Camryn wasn't ready. Her decision, right or wrong, caused many feelings to emerge.

Indeed, it has been a bumpy ride for the last few weeks...Moms fussing, things changing and all while the entire show is blowing up across the country. Fans are coming out of countries, I never even knew, broadcast the show. We have seen hits on this blog from Poland, Jamaica, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, Canada and more. So our responses to posts on Facebook and on this blog have been amazing and varied.

Also we know, everybody has an opinion. So we have just patiently watched to see what the reaction would be for the internal competitions. What we were not expecting, was to find out that "some" of the "FANS" had turned into online mobs. Picking their favorite dancing doll and then turning that into a hate fest for other Dolls. It would have been funny but instead it was very sad. All of those so-called "Supporters" had created a unsolicited contest and in the process, made the Dolls, they didn't like, a target. Hateful comments, nasty posts and unnecessary ignorance, have been popping up on pages everywhere.

So we want to take a stab at sorting it all out...

First, if you haven't noticed, the Dancing Dolls are a group of children. They are not grown ass women who can stand up and defend themselves against the Internet. Second, again, if you haven't noticed, it takes a BUS to get everyone where they are going. So, those two little tidbits, tell me, there are more than 3 people on the Dancing Dolls, Dance TEAM. With the word TEAM being the Operative Word here, we have to ASSUME..there are lots of girls there.

  With that being said, It is a part of being an adult to know the difference between TV & Real Life. Bring It is a kick ass show. They fuss and they do what they do. It all makes for great TV. But at the end of the day, when the lights go out, they are still Kids..


WANT TO KNOW WHO MY FAVORITE DANCING DOLL IS?

My favorite is all of those who bust their ass to dance and work and go to school.....I love Kayla...cause she is a hell of a leader..I love Camryn because she brings a different style to the table and she is just so sweet...I love Sunjai because she dances her butt off and is like a sleeping giant...She doesn't say much and unless she is dancing, she really don't jump right out at you, except for that beautiful face....Crystianna is just a sweetheart and also has great talent...

BUT the ones you DON"T automatically hear about are like the thousand of girls across the country, who are busting their butts and winning competitions, traveling and working for something better...100's of Coaches who are showing up and teaching these beautiful young women and men to go for their dreams and work hard for what they want..SO MY FAVORITE is the ones who do it...Whether I know their name on the show or not...they are there..they are working and I love watching them and being a part of their support team...TEAM......KEYWORD...‪#‎DD4L‬ Means TEAM...It Means EVERYBODY....So Does ‪#‎DDSNATION‬....TEAM TO SUPPORT THE DANCING DOLLS....EASY HUH?

It would seem that the "FANS" vary from the  young girls, who crowd in front of the TV on Friday night, to watch the Dolls learn new dances and see what they do in the competition...... to the almost rabid, overbearing folks, who get so involved in the show, it takes over their lives....
Some would appear to be stalker types. There are people making FAKE Social Media pages, calling themselves fans. It has become a circus. I guess nobody really saw it coming. How do you anticipate the nasty behavior we have seen emerge?

So we hope to reach out to the "REAL FANS" and tell you that we support, ALL of the Dolls. Though we hope to write individual articles, each one of them, soon, we will never show the favoritism that says, we think, one Doll, is more important, than any of the rest.

We have come to love every single person there. Whether we know their name or not, we know, they are there working, everyday, to be the best dancers they can be. Each person that we see on the show is an important part of the Team. They each bring something to the table. Whether their personality or their special dance style or their attitude, we take notice of them and remember them the next time.

Being a part of the show, has given all them a chance to shine. Many of the people who are watching them each week, are themselves dancers.

We are watching lots of teams, who before, never thought they could go so far, reaching higher and working harder to see if they can be as good as the Dancing Dolls of Jackson Mississippi. They are buckin and dropping and dancing and putting in the time to see how far they can go. Just like the Dancing Dolls, there is not JUST ONE PERSON, who makes their teams what they are. They work together to put the best moves on the floor and to win each competition like Champions. Without  everybody, there would be no TEAM.


We celebrate and honor ALL of the Dance Teams across the country, who put the time in and work hard. We also celebrate and honor ALL of the Coaches, who take the time to teach and mentor our young people. Everybody that participates in dancing is a hero, in our book. What these girls do later in life, is ultimately influenced, by their time spent doing this. We get excited when we see them and we get protective over anything that takes away from their goals.

Kayla, Camryn, Crystianna, Tamia, Sunjai and everyone else, deserves to be cheered on. They deserve the opportunity to be teenagers and to be who they are. Nasty comments and ignorant name calling is just childish. So DDS Nation is going to make it our goal, to always STAND UP for what our Dancing Dolls do...not just individually, but collectively..not just giving praise to just one person, but lifting up and praising everybody's hard work.

We are also letting this be the kick off article before we showcase Dance Teams across America..We already have several ready to go..but we want everybody that supports the Dolls, that have Dance Teams to know, we think they are great too....we see how hard they are dancing and how they put their hearts and souls into what they do..we just want to give them a Shout Out and say Best Of Everything...So watch for those coming soon...And while you are at it..Don't pick favorites on the Dolls and let it become obsessive...Pick a favorite BUT cheer for everybody! Thats what DDS Nation is all about.

If you see someone else working hard, giving it their all, even if it appears to take away from YOUR Glory...give them a helping hand or a kind word or a hand up. Tearing people down, especially kids is a big ole No-No...Especially When It Comes To My Dancing Dolls...So GROW UP FOLKS...Lets Cheer Them Dolls To Victory.....#DD4L....#DDSNATION.....#BDD.....#DDP...

How Much Power & Influence Should Our Coaches & Teachers Have?

If there is one thing we know about Dianna Williams, she is not shy or scared to say exactly what she thinks, no matter who you are. Time after time we have watched her fuss at parents, students, opponents and anyone else who came across her path. She will tell you what she thinks and how she feels without hesitation.

That certainly makes for great TV. The fire and smoke that the high drama presents, makes it more entertaining. But in the real world, what effect does Dianna's overlapping, Mama behavior have on the real people she is dealing with? No matter what we see on TV, there are children listening and reacting to everything that is said and done on the show. When the cameras aren't on, the conversation is still the same..Work hard, do it right or move around.

Each week, we watch as Dianna directs the girls for the upcoming competitions. She yells and threatens and works them as hard as necessary to get the job done. Throughout Season 1, we watched her command the necessary behavior, for everybody on the team. Dedication and excellence are not optional and if you are going to participate in the Dollhouse, you have to be ready to give it everything you have. Which would be where "Bring It" came from.

Since Season 2 started, we have seen Dianna demand that dedication from Crystianna and Camryn. Crystianna's emerging teenage desires seem to be conflicting with her practice and with her time spent, getting ready for the next competition. Camryn, though dedicated as ever, had to step up her game to be considered for the next Captain position. Dianna appears, through the few minutes of show that we see, to be more in control of the girl's lives than their parents. She expects them to sacrifice any other activities for the good of the team.

The next episode is totally changing focus, as far as what Dianna is asking of a dancer. This weeks show will highlight Ms D's suggestion to Kayla about losing weight. We know Kayla is fixing to graduate and is pretty much working on last performances. So why does it matter? Why is it Ms. D's business? Is she wrong for getting so involved in what Kayla is doing and for sticking it out on National TV? Was it inappropriate to make this subject a part of this show?

So we thought this the perfect time to ask? How much Power and Influence should an outsider have in our families? How much control should a Dance Teacher have in the lives of our children?

That can be a tricky situation, depending on family dynamics. We are all supportive of our children in their pursuit of extracurricular activities. We want to get them to practice, make sure they have what they need and support their instructors, coaches and teachers, all that we can. When we sign kids up for any type of sport or activity, we have to be aware of expectations from both the Coach and from the kids.
If the Coach gives you advance notice of expectations, you sign up, then get mad, that's your choice. As far as kids and any activities, If they love it, they usually will hang through the tough stuff and do what it takes. If it is a passing fad, they will be whining and trying to quit, without putting the effort in to succeed.

Beyond the basics of choices, we have to determine who the adults in our children's lives are. Who has direct influence in the hearts and minds of our children? At that point, you can evaluate the amount of control you are willing to give them. Is it worth it for your child's future, to expose them to the realities of "Doing Whatever It Takes To Succeed"? Is it a choice that is positive and productive to your child?

As we watch each week, the emotions and the drama of Bring It, we have to allow for the bigger picture. Behind this show is a whole community of people. Before Ms. Dianna ever thought of TV, she was spending her time trying to make a difference in the lives of girls in Jackson, Mississippi. She hasn't changed. She just got the opportunity to show the World, her love and concern for the welfare of our young women. It's got bigger and more widespread, but nothing else has changed.

It became a Social Norm over the last 20 years to coddle our children and to tell them whatever feel good things we could tell them. Society told us it was better for a child's self esteem and well being to let everybody be a winner and to tell everybody they are doing great. Well, that may have been the talk going on in the big cities and the more liberal society, in this country or so it appeared.

However, down in Jackson, Mississippi, in the Good Ole South, folks have always been somewhat more plain spoken, than the rest of the country. The old gentler South is a myth. The fact that we usually try to throw a "sugar" or a "honey"  in the conversation, doesn't mean we aren't telling you how it is. Even saying, "Bless Your Heart" means, We want to slap you for being so stupid, but instead, we are going to try and not do that! But you need to straighten up now! Because we will slap you. LOL.. Everybody knows that, down South.

There is also another belief down South, that hasn't changed. " It takes a Village to raise a child". That saying has been around for as long as I can remember, which is a long time. When we watch Dianna Williams and her handling of the girls of the Dollhouse Dance Factory, we should be mindful of all of those facts.

She is a strong, caring Southern Woman and she believes with all of heart, in the mission she is on. The hearts and minds she comes in contact with daily are watching dreams in action. A dream she worked at and fought for, long before we ever knew who she was. If ever in life, there was an example of dedication and endurance, her story is that example. So to answer the questions: Is it right for Dianna to get so involved in the lives of the girls of the Dollhouse Dance Factory? Is she doing more harm than good to the girls for the sake of the show and for her own gain?

My personal opinion is, Damn right she should get involved. More harm than good? Not in the "REAL" World. In the world all of us grow up, to live in, nobody cares, if "you" don't like what they say about you! It is the old "Dog eat Dog mentality on every corner. To butter children's egos and not be honest, about everything with them, is where the damage comes in.

When we raise children with honesty and real life, they are more willing, to work harder for their dreams. They see what it going to take and their expectations are real. It helps them be who they really are, not building their lives, based on the theory, they are the best at something, just because they showed up.

What the TV Show has done is allow her tough rules and her determination to create a wave across the the World. A wave of "Get Involved In The Lives Of Our Children"! Stop standing by and watching them turnout bad. Be a parent! Be a Teacher! Be a Coach! Do Something To Stop The Madness!..Teach our young people to be proud of EARNING something!..That is the message! Not her calling out Kayla on TV? Kayla is a tough girl. She has been around Dianna for a long, long time...I would bet money, she steps ups to the challenge, as she always does!

Dianna, along with decent, hardworking parents, are helping the Village to raise a generation of tough, bad ass women. They won't be easy! They won't be quitters! They will always demand respect and have respect for themselves..Not because someone GAVE it to them..But because they EARNED it! How bad do you want it what they hear,not I am a failure or I can't do it.

BUT, at the end of the day, the combination of toughness and love are what gets the job done with any child. She isn't being mean or hateful or degrading to anyone. And Dianna never leaves out the praise or the love with her girls. She is the first one to tell them how good they have done or how proud she is of them. She builds confidence that lasts and a "pay it forward" attitude for every girl that comes through the Dollhouse.

And surely, Kayla's weight should be a topic on this show. There is an obesity problem across America. This show reaches millions of people.

Though Kayla is far from being obese, the bigger message is health. Her decision to be healthier than she is already, is a motivation for those millions of people watching. Her overwhelming influence with young girls, who love her, could be a turning point for anyone who wants to get healthier but hasn't.
 If reality shows tackle real life issues and show real life answers, then they are valuable to all of us who watch. Life lessons that we could all use, if we choose to recognize them, are a bigger attraction to me than any of the hype that goes with it all.

DDS Nation will remain a strong supporter of Dianna and the way she chooses to contribute to our children's lives. We are thankful for Dianna and people like her.

Episode 2 Of Bring It: Trash Talking & Setting Examples!

As we all tuned in last Friday night to see the 2nd installment of Bring It, I think we were just a little thrown off. It all started as normal. Pending competition, Ms. D on point with practice and the girls hard at work. BUT....

Ms. D. added some extra incentive for the Dancing Dolls this week. That incentive turned out to be Tim and Jay. Male Choreographers that definitely have it going on. They were brought in to give the girls a more aggressive dance attitude and to help them take better control of the floor during competitions. Dianna was paying attention as usual. Her instincts proved to be right. Tim and Jay brought out the "Beast Mode" in the Dancing Dolls. Their new found attitudes proved to be a dominating factor in the competition.

New choreographers weren't the biggest surprise in Episode 2. From start to finish, it kept us glued to the TV. We have begun to see the forming of new alliances with the DDP. Tawantza is proving to be a great addition to the show. She has connected with Selena and as we know, Selena has been stuck out doing her own thing until now. Both Selena and Tawantza are confident and self assured. They both express that confidence in their conversations about themselves and their daughters, Sunjai and Zatia. From the first episode of Bring It, we knew Selena was the Diva to be dealt with. Now, I think Selena has an ally and some stiff competition in the Diva department. With this new alliance, we are sure to see lots of fireworks with the DDP, this season.

Now for the biggest shocker of all on Episode 2, Season 2 of Bring It. The Trash Talking! Oh I know there has been much talking back and forth since the beginning of the show. Each team that comes to battle, has their own opinions of the Dancing Dolls and Ms. Dianna. BUT, in this episode, it would seem we have gone to a whole new level of nasty.

As soon as the show was over, I started getting emails on my blog. Ranging from total support for Dianna and the Dolls to talking smack about her "hateful and demeaning attitude". My personal response was, Dang, I need to re-watch this, maybe I missed something. So I did. I re-watched the episode on a paid site, yesterday. So for everyone who tuned in last week, this is what I saw and this is my personal opinion on what took place.

From the beginning of this show, Neva, Coach for the Divas of Olive Branch, was sure they were going to take the competition for the third time. Ms. D knew they had worked their butts off to be prepared and to be sure THEY took the competition. She knew the preparation that had been put in and was confident that the Dolls were more than prepared. Neva also felt confident that the Divas were going to win, yet again.

My thoughts are that both teams and coaches were wound as tight as they could get. It seems that since the beginning of any competition, there may have been sparks between Coach D and Coach Neva. So it appears the long strained history of stand battles had both coaches making comments based on that history.

It seemed that with all of the TV added to the mix, it was bound to get explosive. With comments flowing from the Coaches, the teams were automatically thrown into the mix. We all know the devotion of teams with their Coaches. A devoted team member isn't going to stand around and listen to derogatory or negative comments, about their team or their Coach, without responding. That is where things got hairy on this Episode. Once comments began to come from team members on the Divas of Olive Branch side, directly to members of the Dolls, control went out the window.

As I watched again, my view was that Dianna went into protective mode. Her normally rational thinking was overtaken by her love and concern for her girls. It was amazing to watch. When she first heard what was going on, she started walking across the floor. When she came close to the other side, I thought dang, somebody is fixin to get slapped..LOL. Then Ms. D went all the way off. She expressed her beliefs of the unwritten rule of sportsmanship and her feelings about Neva's lack of control of her team.

Her comments to Neva about her eyebrows, were strong and had to cut straight to the bone. When you start commenting on other folks appearance, you can start a fight quickly. Ms. D's comments were taken as hurtful and belittling to the Divas of Olive Branch and their Coach. It also sparked fans to take to Social Media to defend Neva and to condemn Dianna. Lots of people that sent me emails were saying, What example does that set for both teams? For vulnerable girls, who look up to these people? Did they learn anything positive from seeing this fight between the Coaches? Or was this just good TV and we will worry about the fallout later?

I don't know if it made a negative impact on the girls. The impact it made on me, after watching it for the second time, was "Don't mess with family"

We know how much Dianna defends those girls. We know she don't take much crap from anyone. We also know she has no hesitation in saying what she thinks or feels. Though we haven't seen this level of trash talking before, we know that the main point here is the Dancing Dolls. Ms. D's dedication to the show is ultimately overshadowed by her concern for her girls.

If we are to place any blame in this situation, it might be placed on the shoulders of the originating offender. The Divas of Olive Branch Coach seems to have started the entire incident with her negative comments. From that to where it went, could have been avoided from the beginning. I am not saying Ms. D shouldn't have just put a stop to it, maybe she should have. But I think her motivation or concern was not, what it looked like to the haters, but what it looked like to her own conscience. Not taking up for her girls or continuing to let Neva talk much trash, would have been a cowards way out. And we all know, that is not in the description, anyone uses when talking about Dianna.

So, depending on what side you are on here, your opinion may be different. That's fine. I have tried from the start to see the bigger picture with Dianna and with the Dolls. Her positive impact truly outweighs any negative. We also have to remember we are all human beings with feelings and loyalties and ideas. I truly don't think Dianna was being irresponsible. I think she was being real. I think whether on TV or not, her reaction would have been the same. We all want to be good examples to others and I think the example here was play fair and stand with your team, no matter what.

From all of the other episodes, we know that, is Dianna's goal. I think feelings got out of hand in this case, but think it could have gone to a whole new level of bad. I think, in the end, it was handled as well as it could be, under the circumstances. I also think the Dolls know Dianna well enough by now, not to define her by one case. Hopefully, fans and supporters will see the bigger picture as well.

Either way, this Season 2 of Bring It is proving to be worth the watch. Each episode has surprises and twists, we never thought of. That's why 1.8 million people tuned in last week. As we are finding out, the Dolls and Dianna have an appeal that exceeds many normal barriers. They are continuing to roll across America and across the World with a following like no other. I will be watching again this coming Friday to see what is in store for us next. Where will you be on Friday night?