Flowers for Pauletta Washington
I pity those who may simply know her as “the wife of Denzel Washington”. I don’t remember when it happened or what sparked it, but years ago I learned that PAULETTA WASHINGTON is an entire force by herself. Tomorrow is her birthday and I want to give flowers to the actor/musician/philanthropist. Born in Newton, North Carolina, Pauletta was competing in piano competitions before the age of 10. She studied at North Carolina School of the Arts, The Juilliard School, and the University of North Texas.
Pauletta and Denzel met in 1977 on the set of his first film, Wilma. Denzel played the role of Robert Eldridge and Pauletta played the role of Mae Faggs. The pair began dating and married in 1983.
Denzel and Pauletta have four children. FOUR. If you have children or in my case, a child, you’re aware that children (plural or singular) are A LOT. My husband and I are both creatives. It was all fun and games until we threw a kid in the mix, and just like that the former lovebirds transformed into roaring lions fighting each other for time. He needs studio time. I need time to write. We both need time to simply think and meanwhile our daughter is in the middle saying “Hello? Remember me? I need quality time. Period”. Who gets to decide whose dreams are more important to pursue while the other parent stays home with the children? Chile, don’t ask me, because that conversation doesn’t exist in our household. However, in the Washington home, Pauletta decided on her own to stay home and raise their children while Denzel excelled in acting.
"When I became pregnant ... [St. Elsewhere] was shooting in Los Angeles and I was here on Broadway," she said in a 2011 interview with Wendy Williams. "Where would the child be, you know, in the air? So I decided that I wanted to — it was my choice — to be home and create a home. I'm so happy I did."
Now that the children are grown and working in the film industry as well, Pauletta is stepping back into acting. My bestie and I flew to NYC in January for the closing of “The Piano Man” on Broadway starring their son, John David Washington. EVERYONE was in the building. EVERYONE. The audience gave an impromptu standing ovation to Glynn Turman. Kandi Burrus was present, because she produced the stage play. LaTanya Jackson directed the play, while her husband Samuel L. Jackson was a member of the cast. And lastly, Denzel Washington was in the building. In my row. Five seats away from me. However, what was most memorable to me was the conversation I had with Pauletta. I asked if I could take a photo with her and she responded “You want a photo with me?!”. I said, “Yes, Miss Reasonable Doubt (the show she’s currently on). She giggled. I could have went on, but I ended with “I know who you are.” I went on to share how I admired her choice to put her family first. The fruit is evident and as a “new” mom it’s encouraging to see that sometimes if you release your dream for the sake of family, God may restore it back to you later in life. Sometimes.
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her off the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31:28-31
Happy Birthday, Pauletta Washington!
*currently watching*
A few weeks ago I started watching Season 1 of Sex and the City, and I’m proud to report I’ve officially binge watched my way into Season 2. I like it. Confession: I’d never seen the tv show. Only the SATC films. Ummm… Carrie totally pursued/chased Big. Why? He was extremely detached and cold at times. I don’t get it. However, I thoroughly enjoy seeing “Old New York” and I’ve taken a few screenshots of a few fashion accessories I plan to recreate. What are you watching?
*currently eating*
A few weeks ago my husband and I celebrated 9 years of marriage. Yay us! (keep praying, lol). We frolicked up to Wicker Park to check out The Delta Chicago. Inspired by Mississippi’s Delta region, The Delta specializes in Mississippi Red Hot tamales and craft cuisines. We couldn’t decide on what to order, so we got a lil’ bit of everything. Oh, and The Delta is Black owned. If you’re in or near Chicago, give them a try.
*upcoming events*
Historic Prairie Avenue Walking Tour
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
Your Favorite Cousin,
Nikki
What a lovely piece! Kudos to Mrs. Washington and your recognition of her sacrifice for her family! Congratulations on your anniversary - long time reader here from your "solo" days, so it's incredible that 9 years have gone by already! I frequently recall something thst you wrote while you were waiting i.e. establishing routines such as on a Sunday praying for the work week (tasks / coworkers etc.). It's definitely a practice that I have adopted! Blessings on many more to come!🙏🎉👏