Cardboard And Bubble Wrap

Moving...it's become a dreaded word. Oh, don't get me wrong...I'm super excited about the move and all it represents for me, but gosh darn it...I'm so sick of packing and dusting and packing.

It's official...I have way too much crap. Hey...that should have been the title of this post. LOL. At least I'm still laughing at the boxes and not ranting and raving at them. I'm sure that will come when I manage to haul my butt to bed in a few minutes and stub my toe. I have several boxes lined up around the perimeter of my bedroom and they are just sitting there waiting for packing tape.

Anyway, while things are slowly coming together, I just wanted to pass along a few updates. I probably won't have time to post much for the next week or so. I thought about asking for another guest poster, but everyone seems to be busy these days. And the last time...well I wasn't ready for the blog world to know about my fixation with Pee Wee Herman. So, my blog will sit untouched. Feel free to come back several times and touch it. It likes being touched.

Okay where was I...oh yes. Updates:

Jake: He looks so much better. I guess we didn't realize how sick he was because once he got started on antibiotics he has become a bundle of energy. He goes back tomorrow morning for his check up. His eye still looks deformed but we're already so in love with him that even if he was completely blind we'd still want him! He's going to be making the trip with us for the move. He's still too little to stay alone. Anyway, here is to hoping he doesn't get car sick :)

Packing: Did I mention that I hate it? How come boxes only come in squares???

Ummm well I guess there wasn't a lot to update about. Well, consider yourselves lucky...as someone pointed out the other day I have a habit of NOT "making a long story short".

Y'all take care while I'm away!

Garage Selling

Garage sales. Is there any other form of torture that is witnessed by so many (or in our case on Saturday...so few) people? Okay...the next time I say I'm going to have a garage sale or I even hint at possibly toying with the idea of having a garage sale someone...anyone please slap me silly and direct me to read this post!

When I moved home from college last year, my mom had to find a place for all her stuff that had taken over my room. A lot went to storage and then a lot went to a garage sale pile. Well, when I was packing up for that move I had a lot of stuff for storage and then some garage sale stuff. At Christmas, my mom decided that we had an abundance of stuff so again....more stuff for the garage sale pile. That was growing daily it seemed so we talked about having a garage sale in the spring. Those of you that live in Texas or any place down south know that Spring is only about 15 minutes long so our window of opportunity was small. Unfortunately, my great grandmother had a massive heart attack and the ensuing craziness of that prevented us from having a garage sale.

After much discussion (where in the end I convinced my mom that a garage sale was a good idea) a date was set, an ad bought, and all that was left was to wag out that pile of crap and price it. Setting a date...easy. Buying an ad...costly but relatively easy. Dragging out crap...dirty and hot and not so easy. Pricing...confusing. You want the stuff to sell but you also want to make a profit...it's a fine line people! Setting it up...not too bad. Instead of doing it in the middle of the day on Thursday we did it late that night. And I mean 9pm kind of late. Anyway, the stuff was out and covered and we were going to be ready Friday morning.

Let me stop here....why do people come to a garage sale earlier than what the ad says? Are they hoping they'll be the first to pick through our junk? Is there some "first in line!" prize out there that I don't know about? The ad clearly said 8am. We had people driving by and attempting to stop at 7:15am. One guy even had the nerve to ask..."Are you going to get this show on the road anytime soon?" So, fine...we bowed to the masses (or at least that guy) and opened up. We had several shoppers Friday, but by noon we were hot, sweaty, and ready to come in for lunch. I taped up closed until tomorrow signs and we came in. The only sad thing was that we had to repeat the whole process again the next morning. And there came the rub. While we had a decent showing for a Friday I was really expecting the people to pour in on Saturday. They didn't. And about 11:30am we discovered why....every third Saturday of the month the little historical town outside of my town has it's citywide flea market. Everyone was there! So, while we had traffic coming through we didn't sale a lot. I was kinda disappointed. Here I'd worked my bum off trying to get everything together, priced, put out, and the showing was small.

At least we made enough money to pay for the gas to get me moved, I had a little bowling money, and a friend's sister came and hauled away the remains. And I learned two important lessons...don't have garage sales when it's triple digits outside and well....don't have garage sales!

Bubba Jake

We have a new addition to the family!

Jake

Sunday night our neighbor knocked on the door and let us know that we had a baby kitten crying in our backyard. He thought he might be hurt so I went out to investigate. This tiny furr ball was wondering around the backyard crying. He was covered in stickers and his eyes were matted with leaves and goo. We brought him in and it was pretty much love at first sight...first pitiful sight. After a little warm washcloth bath, a quick call to a friend that knows about babies, a little warm milk, and a bunch of warm towels Jake was ready for bed. He settled amazingly well. He slept in my room so I could get up if he needed anymore syringe feedings, but he did well. He slept through the night...probably worn out from his adventure of getting lost from his mama.

Our next big thing was finding a name for this little guy. My mom wanted to name him Bubba. I was horrified! I hate that name...I always think of rednecks that call their brothers and sisters Bubba and Sissy. So, she came up with Jake and we all thought it fit. So now we have little Jake. He's still adjusting to life in our home. His eyes aren't all the way open so he stumbles around like a little lush. It's totally cute to watch! He's been allowed to explore the livingroom, but we have a ton of places where he could crawl into and we'd lose him. He is tiny! So, we have to watch him pretty close. He's finally found one corner where he likes to hide.

This is a lot different from the time when we brought Morty and Dex home. They were already 12 weeks old and we think Jake is less than ten days because his eyes aren't completely open yet. It's been an experience but we're loving it!

Also, if anyone has any tips for introducing a new kitten into a household with another older cat please share! Dex sniffs around at Jake and then smacks him around with his paw. We're having to watch them extra closely. Thankfully, Dex hasn't attacked but he sure watches him closely. We just want it to be a smooth transition because Jake is part of the family now!

Home Sweet Home I

This is the left side of the front of the house. Aren't all the plants pretty?

This is the other end of the house (plus a little more past the tree) and a good picture of my front deck. Excuse the car...it was in the way of my picture taking.

This is the front yard view from the porch. Again...there is the car...lol. It is very green down in there but the green is in the back. The front is kind of mostly dirt.

Home Sweet Home II

This is the back side of the house. I stood right in front of the trees and looked back at the house. That's my back door and my little bush...yeah...it's all mine!
This is my backyard. I stood on the back steps to take this picture. That house belongs to my neighbor.

Prisons And Pregnancy Tests

How many people read the title of a post? Do you read the title or do you just skip to the meat of the post? And for those of you that do read the title do you ever stop and think about it? I mean do you ever start reading and think "What the heck could this post be about?" I know that some are really self explanatory and then some are puzzling but what about the ones that just seem...well like Prisons And Pregnancy Tests? Whatever could I mean? Maybe I'm pregnant and it's going to be like a prison sentence. Or perhaps I met a guy in prison and now we're expecting a baby. Here...you come up with your own. I'll wait.

(Hey...quit reading and start wondering...that's what this time is for!)

Okay, I'll spill. First, and most importantly, I am NOT pregnant. Secondly, and a little less important, I am NOT going to prison. There...your hearts can slow again...especially your's, mom.

Well, if you didn't know, I'm moving. I got a teaching job and it's about six hours away. This past weekend my parents and I went down to find me a place to live because like I mentioned this place isn't exactly close by. I won't bore you with trip details (and count your lucky stars) because how interesting can I make a six hour car trip where I'm confined to the backseat? Not very.

Now, on to the prison and pregnancy part of this post. When I first went down for my interview I couldn't help commenting on the number of bill boards and clinics that posed the questions "Alone and Pregnant?" "Need Confidential Pregancy Results?" "Free Pregnancy Tests Available" These signs and clinics were just about on every corner. The prison part comes in because this place is the home of Old Sparky and there are just about as many prisons as there are offers to tell me if I'm pregnant or not. Kinda makes you wonder where exactly I'm fixing to put down some roots...

Well, the more I drove around the town the more I realized that if I ever find myself in a situation where I need to know if I'm on my way to Mommyville then I'm in the right place. And you thought corners were just for ladies of the night or being mean and nasty.

Okay...I think I've probably ran this prison and pregnancy part into the ground. Moving on to the really great news. I have a place to live. It won't be in my car, though at first this was a distinct possibility. For those of you few that are reading, if you've ever been a landlord or lady let me just say that I mean no offense. Just remember this is coming from someone who will admit to being slightly (though just slightly) spoiled.

We headed down with a very short list of places to look at for rent. This is partly because after the hurricanes came through there were a lot of refugees that moved here. Also, the local university is remodeling two dorms so kids and displaced people are all over the place. There were only two apartments that even had openings. One was okay. There was no washer and dryer, but it would do in a pinch. And then there was one that resembled the no tell motel. Yeah...I didn't even get out of the car on that one. And then there were the duplexes. I went into the first one (with an open mind...I'm not completely shallow) and discovered that the walls were still plywood. I asked if it was being remodeled and the lady told me no. They were going for the "natural" look. I told her thank you and left. I could go on but you get the point. Anyone that has had to look for that first apartment or rental knows what I'm talking about. One person's cute is another person's tacky.

Finally, after much crying (yes I teared up...) and wondering if I'd qualify for a home loan my mom said we should look at this last mobile home. I know...I said mobile home. Promise not to think too low of me, but all I could think (and with the way my luck was running it was a reasonable thought) was trash. Mobile home parks are usually reserved for trash. Trashy people and trashy yards and well I'll stop. I'm sure I've royally offended enough people. Anyway, that's what I thought. But much to my surprise, this place was small (only three rentals) and everything was very well maintained. It wasn't as horrible as I'd imagined. Come to find out, the home had just been refurbished on the inside. I'm talking new floors, fresh carpet, fresh paint, clean. And considering it was the last thing on the list I was inclined to be more open to the possibilities that this might be home.

Thankfully, when we met with the lady that owned the property she was sweet and very picky. We were a perfect fit because I'd been darned picky all along. To make a long story short, I signed my name and I won't be homeless when I move at the end of the month. I'll post a picture in the next few days.

I still think that this move and starting a new job scares me, but I'm excited about all the changes that are coming my way. And the town is just beautiful and the people are very friendly. I just wish the move was over with and I was settled. And I'm sure there will be plenty of more blog worthy events to come!

Big Sam

In my "going to be" city, they have erected a statue to honor Sam Houston. That's one hard, tall guy!

Crazy Goodness

A few of you fellow bloggers already know this because I sent you an email, but for everyone else (look how I implied that I have a huge reader base...lol) I just want to pass along some really great news!

I HAVE A TEACHING JOB!!!

I'm going to be teaching second grade which is great. I did my student teaching in second grade and I loved it! The campus is fairly new and the principal and staff that I interviewed with were so friendly.

I'm thrilled beyond belief and a little relieved that the whole interview process is over. Unfortunately while I was concentrating on the getting hired process I did not focus at all on the moving process.

I'm leary of posting too many details on the internet (a girl can't be too careful) but I will say that I'm going to be moving to South Texas and it's a long way away from home and family. My parents are going down with me this coming weekend and I'll begin the apartment/rental search.

I have to be down South by July 31st so it's going to be crazy for the next several weeks. On top of still working (who knew getting a job would cost so much?!) I have to pack, paint furniture, wrap up business here in town, say goodbye, and all the things that come with something new.

Did I mention that I'm excited, scared, nervous, thrilled...practically everything at once. I'm a little overwhelmed but I'm in a good place.

So, THANK YOU to those of you who have said prayers or sent good wishes my way. I promise to stay regular on this posting business as much as I can but I can't promise new (or interesting) posts each day. It's probably going to be like sitting through someone else's vacation slide show presentation...lol.

VOTE Baby VOTE!

For anyone that has been reading my little piece of blogland can tell you, I'm an avid reality tv junkie. I love Survivor, Amazing Race, Big Brother, etc.

Anyway, Big Brother is gearing up for it's seventh season (that has to mean it's a good show right!) and it's America's Choice. For anyone else that enjoys reality tv you know what that is all about. And for those of you who don't (shame on you first of all....) it's where America gets to decide who will be in the house. Okay technically only half of the total number of people that will get in, but still....it's in OUR hands. I've voted several times today (**) but if you've got nothing better to do in the next few minutes (*) then please head over to www.cbs.com and click on the Big Brother link. Then vote for the following people:

Kaysar (total hottie!)

Howie (gotta love a guy that wants to be a Jedi)

Janelle (sweet combo of sass and bitch)

* I'm cutting this post short so you'll have nothing else to do for the next few minutes which will result in you going and voting (hopefully!)

**I do have better things to be doing (I am a busy girl this week) but you've got to have some priorities right?!

Guest Post

Hey everyone,

Life seems to be on fast forward and frankly I haven't had the blogging bug lately. I'm sure this is a 24 hour thing and I'll be back shortly, but in my absence Mike has been let loose on my blog. Thanks Mike. Enjoy.

Steff


Once again a maiden in distress asks for a guest post from yours truly. Apparently our lil Steffy is a busy, busy girl this week and feels it would be a bad thing to leave her blog neglected and un-used. So she has opted for being abused by me instead.

She did warn me that her mother occasionally reads her blog though. So I assured her I would keep it “mom” safe.

But then she e-mailed me back and said she didn’t want "some watered down lil girl post"
either. Just another example of a woman trying to confuse us I guess.

Well there are a couple of issues here I’d like to clear up:

1) I’m not skeered of your mother. There’s a lot of space between Wisconsin and Texas and if necessary I can hide. If that fails I have great ass-kissing skills anyway.

2) If your mother has seen any of my comments in your blog I’m sure I’d have heard about it by now. She knows I’m a wonderful person and probably wishes you would model yourself after me.

So now that we have that cleared up and to prove just how much on the same page your mother and I are, I’ve elected to do an in depth interview with her. I know she’s just dying to be in the spot light and reveal a little of what makes Steff tick.

Mike: It’s finally nice to sit down and chat with you about your daughter. Before we begin are there any areas we need to stay away from or any topics that would be off limits?
Steff’s Mom: Absolutely not. I’m all for letting the chips fall where they may.

Mike: That’s great. Before we begin can I get you a pepsi or a beer?
Steff’s Mom: No thanks. But if you’re smart you’ll hide your beer in case Steff sneaks in on us though. That girl can drink like a fish, curse like a sailor and her beer belches have woken the neighbors on several occasions.
Mike: Not too ladylike huh?
Steff’s Mom: Not hardly but she’s easy to locate under those circumstances.

Mike: How do you explain this behavior?
Steff’s Mom: That’s simple, all our neighbors are told she has Tourettes Syndrome.
Mike: Nice.

Mike: Can you tell us who her favorite entertainer is?
Steff’s Mom: Pee Wee Herman. Don’t make me regret this interview now. Even after years of counseling she feels it was an imposter in that little theater incident and he was framed.
Mike: Well, that explains the Pee Wee air freshener hanging off her review mirror I guess.
Steff’s Mom: You’ve seen that too? Honestly, can you imagine how mortified her father and I are? Next question please.

Mike: Obviously she considers you and her father as role models but are there any others that helped shaped her life?
Steff’s Mom: Well there was one. I’m a little hesitant to bring him up though.
Mike: Oh, you don’t have to flatter me.
Steff’s Mom: Not you. Now you’ve forced my hand. In no way shape or form do I want people thinking you helped shape her life. I’m talking about Barney.
Mike: That goofy green and purple dude?
Steff’s Mom: Yes. She still wears Barney pajamas to this day. We still can’t have any knick knacks on small tables or shelves because every time she turns around that damn tail knocks things over.
Mike: Any pictures of this you’d like to share with the audience?
Steff’s Mom: No. Sicko. She warned me about this pajama thing you two have going on.
Mike: Ok. Moving on then.

Mike: Steff often brings up her love for trying out new recipes on you folks. Care to give us a little insight on how that works?
Steff’s Mom: Fema has deemed her cooking skills and her easy-bake oven a security risk. They usually cut us a check for the cleanup and the meals we need to go out and eat after each incident. Both her father and I pray the guy she marries some day either is a life time dieter or can actually cook himself. And hide all flammable materials as well.

Mike: She must have a favorite restaurant herself. What must that be?
Steff’s Mom: McDonald’s. Sometimes its hard to get her out of the play area to eat her happy meal though. She also has a thing for Ronald.
Mike: Really?
Steff’s Mom: Sadly, yes. She always making reference to his shoe size. Is that something I need to be concerned with?
Mike: Only if you see them together and he’s shoe-less I’d imagine.

Mike: So is there a man in her life right now?
Steff’s Mom: Unfortunately yes.
Mike: Unfortunately?
Steff’s Mom: Can we keep this question to ourselves? It’s rather embarrassing.
Mike: Of course! Hasn’t Steff told you how thoughtful I am?

Close your eyes and just scroll past this part people. This is too gut wrenching for Steff’s mother and you shouldn’t read her answer.

Steff’s Mom: Well, the other day we caught her at the nursing home hitting on some old duffer in a wheelchair.
Mike: I’m shocked!
Steff’s Mom: Apparently so was he. His heart couldn’t take it and his funeral is tomorrow. She now has a restraining order barring her from getting within 500 feet of the nursing home. This is just too painful. Can we continue this another time?
Mike: Sure, just give me a call.

Well, that’s that I guess. I would appreciate it Steff if you would thank your mother for me for taking the time to shed a little light about you for us.

And…..

Thanks for letting me post today. There is no limit to my idiocy that I’m willing to share with people huh?

This Gem

Jamie's Flowers

My soul is restless tonight. My body is weary. My heart is in a state of confusion. My mind is exhausted. So many things are on my plate right now (some blessings and some curses) but amid all the drama and excitement that is my life I can find a little peace and stillness by looking at God's handiwork. I've mentioned before that there are a few people in my blog roll that capture nature in a way that doesn't make me run for the kleenex or bug spray but instead just simply look and enjoy. Tonight I found this gem and couldn't resist putting up!

Cookin' Somethin' Up

Well, I tried my hand again at cooking. Last night to be specific. I just have to laugh at myself because while I do love to cook and experiment with new recipes, sometimes I just have all kinds of problems in the kitchen.

A few weeks ago, I copied a recipe from a friend of a friend's blog. It sounded easy and, thanks to B putting up a picture, it looked yummy too. It's made from zucchini which seems to grow in abundance this time of year. My family lives in a great little neighborhood where people share things from their garden so we've always got fresh squash and zucchini in the fridge. Well, I've been wanting to try out this recipe for a while, but I couldn't decide if it was a main dish or more of a side dish. And my dad works all day out in the sun so when he comes home he's hungry and wants a good sized meal. Well, I decided to pair it with some fish and cold salads. Sounds easy...but I should know better than that when it comes to something new in the kitchen!

This was actually the meal that was on the dinner menu for Tuesday night, but after I'd gotten all the stuff out and ready, I discovered that I didn't have a grater. (The zucchini has to be grated.) More accurately, I do have a grater...the one my mom gave me when I was in college...which is still packed away. Then my mom remembered that she got a Gizmo electric grater a few years ago. So, I dug it out and started to read the instructions. Wouldn't you know that the stupid thing had to charge for at least 15 hours before the first use? Yeah...it wasn't a popular gift so it got stuck in the cabinet behind some other stuff we don't use very often. At this point I just got frustrated and voted for hamburgers from Sonic. But I did plug in the Gizmo and was determined that Wednesday night would bring these zucchini cakes.

Wednesday night rolls around and I'm set again to try out these veggie cakes. I re-wash the zucchini and put together the gizmo grater. I push the start button and the darn thing doesn't work. Okay...I'm big enough to admit that it was probably a little bit (oh fine...a lot...geez people) of operator error. Maybe the zucchini was too big, or maybe it was the skin was too rough, or maybe...just maybe...the gizmo isn't that great. Anyway, it was shredding the zucchini into mush instead of grating it. Now might be a good time to explain that I lose patience with stuff very quickly. Thankfully, my mom remembered (she's always remembering after I'm elbow deep in mess!) that we have a Presto Salad Shooter over in the pantry. So, I chunk the Gizmo disaster into the sink and pull out the salad shooter. We hadn't used it in a while so I had to wash it before I could use it. Finally, I get the zucchini chopped and put in and the thing works beautifully! My zucchini is grated and my ingredients are mixed...I'm ready to roll into patties. Boy was that a messy thing too. I had big globs of wet zucchini and breadcrumbs and now flour all over my fingers. Thankfully, I got them shaped into patties and eventually into the pan to brown.

While they were cooking, I had to try and clean off the cabinet so that when they were done I'd have room to set out the plates, coleslaw, potato salad, and fish. My simple solution was to just chunk everything into the sink. That's usually what happens when I cook...I have a sink full of stuff to clean up after dinner. In our family we have this I cook...you wash policy but when it comes to me it's dependent on how big of a mess I made! My mom glanced in the kitchen and predicted that I probably wouldn't make these again because of all the frustration I had making them. But, they turned out super good so I'll probably try my hand at them again. You know...this time with the right grating machine and a cleaned out sink.

Anyway, I would recommend these little zucchini cakes to anyone. They really were delicious! And because I'm a thoughtful person I'm even going to include the recipe. If you want to see the finished product travel over to B's blog and scroll down a few posts. Enjoy!

Zucchini Crab Cakes

2 1/2 c. grated zucchini (rind and all)

1 egg, beaten

1 TBSP melted butter

1 c. seasoned bread crumbs

1 tsp. seafood seasoning (I used Old Bay and probably more than a tsp...I just shook till it looked like enough)

1-4 TBSP flour or cracker crumbs

Combine the zucchini, egg, and butter. Add the rest of the ingredients. Shape into patties. Dip patties into the flour or cracker crumbs. Fry on medium high heat in a little vegetable oil until brown on both sides.

Road Trippin'

I just have to say to begin with....I LOVE ROADTRIPS! They are such a blast because you never know where the road or trip will take you.

First, a shout out to all the great ladies that I spent the weekend with:
Pilar (our chaffer)
Linda
Sophia (my CofM&N girl!)
Brianna (a totally cool chick in training)
Karla
Kim
Angie

These women made the trip so much fun. As always, the more people you have the more fun you have and I had tons of it.

So, just to bring everyone up to speed I went to Arlington with some friends this weekend for a scrapbooking convention. I'd never been to one before so I was excited. I was also going on a very tight budget. I probably won't do that again...there were so many things I wanted. And anyone that knows me can understand my "I want I get" attitude about some things. It was hard to walk away from some fabulous scrapbooking supplies! I'm sure I'm going to be rewarded for my restraint...

In the interest of saving money Pilar, Linda, and I decided to share a room. Linda did the hard part and went online and found our hotel room. In the interest of protecting the "not four star" hotel I'll leave out the name of where we stayed. When we first got there we were hauling in all of our stuff and all three of us noticed a smell. Pilar said it could be the fact that the hotel didn't have housekeeping service and Linda thought it might be that they had just sprayed for roaches. Either way it wasn't a pleasant smell! To top that off, when we got to the door there was this little metal plate screwed to the door. We found out after we opened the door that it was holding the deadbolt to the door. Something or someone had tried to rip it off the door. At this point Pilar said that she was bringing in some protection...lol. I should mention that she is licensed to carry. But, to be fair...the hotel room was really big, clean, and comfortable. I have to back track just a second to something I said earlier...there was NO housekeeping services. Pilar went down to get some more towels and the lady at the front desk put clean ones in a trashbag and gave her a second trashbag for the dirties. We got to haul them to the front office ourselves. It want all bad...the shower head felt wonderful. It had a better messaging head and water pressure than what I have at home. The bed was comfy. And I thoroughly enjoyed the pool!

After we'd checked in, we headed to lunch (and the rule was that we weren't eating at any place that we could eat at home) at TGIFriday's. I had...ya'll probably don't care so I'll skip it. I will say that Linda is a true Mrs. Robbinson. She flirts with all our waiters!!! Here I'm surrounded by married women and I'm the only one that should have the right to flirt with hot guys and I'm having to compete with older women...lol. Anyway, after lunch we headed to the convention center. We lucked out and got some front row parking so that was good.

I probably can't do justice to explaining the aisles and aisles of scrapbooking supplies, but let me just say I was overwhelmed! And as Linda says...we had to fondle everything. I think we only made three aisles on the first day. We had to get out in line for the crop. Now only people who have been to a scrapbooking convention or a crop where you have to wait in line can fully appreciate this story. Pilar and I had hauled in all the bags (think heavy and bulky and the fact that it's over 100 degrees outside) and just gotten in line. She was going to make use of the bathrooms and I had just set down to wait when the line starts moving. What??? We were supposed to still have about 45 minutes before they let anyone inside and we were kinda far back in line. You should have seen me trying to pull my two bags, Pilar's two bags, and then whatever Linda couldn't carry. I'd go about ten feet and then have to run back and grab the rest of the bags. The people behind us were probably wishing I'd get my stuff together! Finally, after about four trips of back and forth, Pilar came out and I screamed her name so she'd come and help! Thankfully, after that it was easy going to get into the ballroom for the crop.

You know...I didn't get done nearly as much as I wanted to get down at the crops. I went with big dreams of finishing my New York album...yeah right. I got two layouts completed Friday night. Of course my "Hell"ing A Cab layout was super cute, but I got distracted by dancing and laughing. Let me just tell you...Sophia and I can boogie like nobody's business! Okay...maybe there are people out there that can dance better but I'm sure no one had as much fun as we did!

Saturday was just more of the same...shopping, cropping, laughing, dancing, oh and taking pictures. I took two whole rolls of film and who knows how many those that had digitals took. I can't wait to get my film developed! Oh and I got the chance to talk to a fellow blogger on Saturday night...it's always good to hear a little Texas twang right ya'll? On Saturday night I got even less done than I did on Friday. I only got one layout completed. Probably because I was too busy dancing the chicken and taking pictures of my cleavage. Next time I'll have to have my priorities right...lol!

Sunday morning I got to try out my new swimsuit with Brianna. We went out to the pool only to find that it was still locked. We tried to get back into the building, but our key cards had already been deactivated. I thought no problem...I'll just knock on our window (we were on the first floor) and have Pilar come and open up the door. Well, I knew that our blinds had been closed when I left so I went and banged on the window. Imagine my shock when some guy pulls back the curtains to find me standing in my swimsuit banging on his window! I mumbled sorry and hopped back out of the bushes back onto the sidewalk. Of course, Brianna had jumped back out of view (she'd make a horrible partner in crime!) and was laughing at me. Thankfully, the next window that I tapped lightly on was our room. We got in and went to the front to have the pool unlocked and Brianna's key card reprogrammed. Finally...after all this drama...we were able to get in the pool. It wasn't a big pool but it was cool and we had fun. At some point, Sophia and Pilar came down and started taking pictures. I haven't seen them but hopefully they came out good!

After lunch, we headed to two scrapbook stores. I liked Recollections the best while I would have been completely happy to skip Scrapbook Warehouse. Anyway, on our way to Lewisville, Pilar says that I should look out the sunroof in her car and take a picture of Sophia (who was following us). Okay, see if you can get a good grip on the picture. Pilar (who could try out for NASCAR) is driving down a major highway, I take off my shoes and climb up through the sunroof with my camera and snap a picture of Sophia and Brianna in their car. I come back down...windblown of course...and we all have a good laugh. Well, on our way back, I call Sophia and ask her if her camera is handy...I'll get back up in the sunroof again. Well she does, so there I am hanging out of the roof of the car and Brianna is hanging out the window taking a picture of me. We stop at a light so I get up for the third time and and Sophia hangs out the car window and takes my picture. You know...this isn't as cool as it seems when people do it in limos! It's kind of rough on the back as you try to wiggle back into the car. Anyway, for a final shot I got on my back and stuck my feet through the roof. I think everyone had a good laugh.

So, that basically sums up the weekend. I think everyone had a ton of fun! And like all trips, even though you're excited to go and you have fun, you're ready to be home too. Yesterday I pretty much lazed around and did not a lot. At least I'm recovered from the weekend and I'm ready for my next road trip!

Out Of Pocket...

I'm blowing this joint for the weekend!!! I'm going to Arlington for The Great American Scrapbook Convention with some friends. We're going to talk, crop, shop, and eat...sounds like fun :o) Anyway, if you've stopped by feel free to check out the last few posts for your reading enjoyment. Now, I've got to lick the white powdery donut stuff off my fingers and load my car!

Have a great weekend!

What Type Of Donut Are You?

I was blog hopping a little tonight and ran across someone's blog that had a quiz. Those are so nutty but fun. And I thought this one was appropriate because I enjoyed every bite of my chocolate covered with sprinkles glazed donut this afternoon....yummy!

You Are a Glazed Donut

Okay, you know that you're plain - and you're cool with that. You prefer not to let anything distract from your sweetness. Your appeal is understated yet universal. Everyone digs you. And in a pinch, you'll probably get eaten.

What Donut Are You?

Food...Fun...Sun

Someone recently pointed out that my blog has been lacking recently. Mostly lacking new posts I believe was what was trying to be conveyed. So, to appease all my fans (look at how I implied that I have a lot of them...lol) I've decided to share a few things about my day. Please...contain your excitement. Excitement is hard to clean off the computer.

Perhaps you were wondering about the title of this post. Well, these words sum up today's activities.
Food: I tried a new recipe that is absolutely wonderful!!!!
Fun: BUNKO night...Mexican style.
Sun: I bought a new swimsuit!

Sit back and enjoy!

Ah, the start of summer. Most people have some sort of routine they go through when summer hits. Some take heavy winter coats and sweaters out of the closet. Some take the chains off their tires. Or, if you're from Texas, you simply put the short sleeve shirts in the back of the closet and pull the sleeveless ones to the front. Well, anyway, my summer routine always starts with a new swimsuit. A huge pool of barely chilled water is one of the only ways to stay cool during a Texas summer. And being that I'm a slightly shallow chick, I like to have a new and pretty suit to show off at the pool. Luck was with me today, because my mom mentioned this morning that Kmart had swimsuits on sale for 40% off. (Now I know at least one of you is trying to decide which 40% of my swimsuit that I'm leaving off but try and stay on track here...) So, I decided to go by and see if there was anything I liked. Normally trying on lycra in a tiny fitting room isn't fun. Well, it's really not fun when it's 500 degrees outside and it's the hottest part of the afternoon. I walked in with four suits to try on and wouldn't you know the one that I fell in love with was the last one I tried on? By that point, everything that could stick to anything on my body was. And of course I was having to try on these suits with my undies still on so it was like added layers...icky hotness. But, I put on the final suit (a sweet little tankini number that is light blue, sea green, and white...just adorable and the fit is flattering) and said great...I'm taking this one....assuming I can peel it from my body and get it back on the hanger. Long and hot story short...I got my suit for $25. Not bad.

Tonight was my monthly bunko night. I love bunko...or maybe I just love the girls that I play bunko with! Either way, I always have a blast and tonight was no exception. Tonight was my night to hostess so I got to pick the main dish. I love throwing themed parties so we went with Fiesta! tonight. I choose to bring enchiladas as the main dish. I had planned to just stop by my favorite Mexican restaurant and pick them up, but at the last minute I decided to try my hand at a new recipe. I must say that I was very surprised that they came out so good! I love to cook and putter around in the kitchen. Just not everything I makes comes out...well edible. For instance, when I was in college I tried to pan fry breaded porkchops. You can't pan fry anything breaded. My roommate wasn't too keen on the smoke detectors going off. Anyway, I tried my hand at sour cream and chicken enchiladas and I think they came out great. So I can fake it when I have to!

And speaking of bunko...I got the most bunkos so I got to go second in picking the prizes. I got these really neat girl themed brads...love them! Sophia (my CofM&N girl) is the hostess next month. Can't wait to see what fun we have then!

So, there you have it folks. I had a good day. I think tomorrow I'm regulated to helping clean my parents' bedroom from top to bottom. I hate housework, but I'd do just about anything to earn a few extra dollars before my trip this weekend. Now...off to read!

Relief...Not Here (Updated)

GRRR I'm having job woes once again. I was pretty sure that I had my summer job lined up and in the bag. The after school job was supposedly suppose to flow into a summer program. Well, due to some weird twists of events I'm not sure I'm still employed. Here is what I know (I know...another list but they help me think):

1. I asked the week before school was out if I was going to be working. I asked my immediate supervisor and she said yes. And at one point I'd even been asked if I'd work 40 hours a week.

2. I got sick (allergies...the darn things) and I missed two days (the final two days) and the appreciation banquet. I'm sure missing two consecutive days in the beginning stages (about four weeks into the job) of a job isn't a good thing.

3. I called to see what the summer schedule was (since I'd missed the last day) and was told that they weren't sure everyone would be staying on because they hadn't finished up with summer enrollment. Call back next week (today) and we'll know something.

4. I called today and was passed around like a platter of chocolate dipped fruit. Finally, I spoke to the same lady that told me to call today. She said that they are still processing the enrollments and that I'll know something by Friday.

5. I'm not calling again until Friday afternoon if I haven't heard anything.

6. While I have one more pretty decent paycheck coming from the school district, I'm taking a mini vacation (Arlington...scrapbooking...$$$$) next Friday.

So, instead of being relieved tonight I'm just full of more questions:

1. Will I have a summer job?

2. How can I make $150 go the furthest at convention?

3. Should I start looking for another job?

4. How the heck do I not worry about stuff like this?

5. What should I have for dinner? (Yeah this isn't really related to the job but it is about that time...)

So there you have it. A day that should have come with answers and a deep sense of relief has left me less than satisfied and still full of questions.

UPDATE: I was called on Thursday and told that I didn't have enough senority to be kept on. I was a little disappointed, but I think I've got some options. My great grandmother's house needs some serious cleaning and organizing before it can be sold so my mom is seeing about just paying me to do it. This would be a blessing because I can still sleep late (always a plus!) and if I need to travel for job interviews (you know...the whole teaching thing) the "boss" will probably let me off without much trouble. And then my CofM&N friend (love ya Sophia!!!) let me know about a possible job opening that wouldn't be bad either. I went and applied for that yesterday so we'll see what happens. I appreciate all the thoughts and well wishes.

My Daddy Is...

Early last week I had some severe allergies. My mind was fuzzy because most of it was running out of my nose and down my throat. I know...it still sounds gross. Anyway I was doped up on Advil, throat spray, and kleenex. I even took a day off from my various jobs to stay in bed and moan and groan. And while I was at it I watched a lot of tv. Mostly CMT...I think the music helped lull me into fits of restless sleep. And that brought about a question.

Who's your daddy?

Yeah, I know this is supposed to be some sexual reference, but could someone please explain that to me? I mean who is thinking about his or her daddy in that kind of way? Sorry, I hope I don't have Arkansas readers! But, come on...who's your daddy?

This is everywhere. Once I started thinking about it I started to hear it everywhere. Heck, I even flippantly said it to a certain daddy aged reader in my comments. First, there was this movie. I don't remember the name (I barely remember anything from that day...something to do with my brains running out my nose...) but there is a couple in a little bed. Apparently, they are visiting her family so they are staying in her father's house. Well, they sure have some nerve because they are getting busy and he busts out with "Who's your daddy?" And it wasn't just once either...he said it like four times. Finally, you hear a shout through the wall as her daddy says "I am...I'm her daddy." Seeing as how I've never personally been in this situation I can only assume that would kill the mood.

Then, back to the CMT thing, there is this song by Toby Keith about who's your daddy. And some other song by someone about how "you've got the only daddy that'll walk the line...". All these songs about guys being the daddy...and I don't think we're talking about the paternal kind of daddy.

Okay, one last example of the whole daddy craze. Have you ever noticed how older people call each other Mama and Daddy? I know that when I was growing up and I'd visit my grandparents my Papa would call my Mimi "Mimi". And when we're all there (all kids and grandkids) she calls him "Daddy". Do you suppose they've forgotten what their names are? Do parents lose their identity and forever become "daddy" and "mama"? Don't get me wrong...I think it's kind of cute.

Anyway, maybe this makes no sense....I am still sneezing a little bit. But, ah the things that come from a drug induced recovery!

Summer In Texas...

Only native Texans can understand what a summer in the Lone Star State is really all about. It's more than just hot. It's sorching. You can see the heat waves and a sheen of sweat is a permanent thing from May through September. Some people relieve the heat by wearing next to nothing. I'll stick to cold lemonade and my air conditioner! I was sent the following in an email the other day and it's so true. Here is just a little taste of what I'll be in for during the next several months:

YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN TEXAS IN SUMMER WHEN. . . .

The birds have to use potholders to pull worms out of the ground.

The trees are whistling for the dogs.

The best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.

Hot water now comes out of both taps.

You can make sun tea instantly.

You learn that a seat belt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron!

The temperature drops below 95 and you feel a little chilly.

You discover that in July it only takes 2 fingers to steer your car.

You discover that you can get sunburned through your car window.

You actually burn your hand opening the car door.

You break into a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m.

Your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death?"

You realize that asphalt has a liquid state.

The potatoes cook underground, so all you have to do is> pull one out and add butter, salt and pepper.

Farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying boiled eggs.

The cows are giving evaporated milk.

Ah, what a place to call home. The following picture is one that reminds me that not too long ago I was somewhere that required me to wear multiple layers of clothes and my heaviest winter coat and expose as little of myself as possible. I'm sure the first time I burn my hip on my seat belt buckle I'll be wishing to be back in New York City in the middle of winter!

Fluffy Post

GETTING TO KNOW FRIENDS

Well, I told you to expect a few fluff posts and today is one such post. I'm at school (picture me jumping for joy!!!) so I can't really watch 30 kids and type out a post, but I can manage to fill in some useless information about myself. Enjoy...or endure...your choice!

1. WHAT COLOR ARE YOUR KITCHEN PLATES? blue

2. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING? Summer of Secrets by Muareen Child (I'm a sucker for anything romantic. But if you ask some people...ahem Amanda...they'd say it's soft core porn.)

3. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? The word Dell

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOARD GAME? Clue

5. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU THINK OF WHEN YOU WAKE UP IN THE
MORNING? I wish I could sleep a little more!

6. FAVORITE COLOR OR COLORS? purples, blues, greens

7. LEAST FAVORITE COLOR? yellow

8. HOW MANY RINGS UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE PHONE? however long it takes me to get to it

9. FUTURE CHILDS NAME? Tanner Henry (boy) and I don't really have a girl name in mind. Hopefully I'll have a creative husband to help out with that. I do like Meredith and Shelby though.

10. CHOCOLATE OR VANILLA? Neither...I don't care for chocolate ice cream and vanilla is boring. But if I have to choose I'd pick vanilla because I can add other stuff to it.

11. DO YOU LIKE TO DRIVE FAST? two speeding tickets and four accidents ...what do you think?

12. DO YOU SLEEP WITH A STUFFED ANIMAL? If I'm sleeping alone then yes, I have a big white stuffed teddy bear that I can squish into any shape

13. DO YOU LIKE THUNDERSTORMS? absolutely! I think the thunder and rain set a very (well in case my mom is reading this) romantic atmosphere.....

14. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CAR? I don't even know the make and model but it was a light blue hatch back. At the time I'm not sure I appreciated it fully (I did crash and destroy it five months later) but I sure wish I could redo that car again!

15. WHAT IS YOUR SIGN? Libra

16. EAT THE STEMS OF BROCCOLI? Yep, that's the only part I like.

17. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY JOB WHAT WOULD IT BE? a teacher that helps kids learn their learning styles and how to be successful in any environment (man do I sound like a teacher :P)

18. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY COLOR HAIR, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I'd like to have the auburn hair that my grandmother has. (She'd probably tell me I can have it too....Natural Instincts Spiced Tea should do it...lol)

19. FAVORITE MOVIES? Beaches, American President

20. WHATS UNDER YOUR BED? lots of crap....a couple of those space bags with quilts in them, an old text book, monsters probably...

21. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Ice skating

22. YOUR SINGLE BIGGEST INTENSE PAIN? emotionally: thinking my mom wouldn't make it through her surgery when I was in college physically: I fracutured the growth plate in my ankle when I was in middle school. For several weeks my foot was at a 90 degree angle.

23. PERSONS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND TO THIS? I really don't care...use it if you want to.

24. PERSONS YOU SEND THIS TO WHO IS LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? who cares

25. KETCHUP OR MUSTARD? Ketchup as a main rule. I only eat mustard on my weiners and tator tots

26. HAMBURGER OR HOTDOG? Hotdogs (with mustard, chili, cheese, and a pickle spear)

27. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE S EASON? Winter

28. THE BEST PLACE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN? Colorado at Christmas time

29. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FAST FOOD? Oh gosh that is tough...I'd say it's a toss up between Sonic (cranberry limeades...omg...yummy) and Taco Bueno (anything on the menu)

30. WHAT IS YOUR BIRTH NAME? Steffany Lynn

High School Forever?

Has anyone else noticed that life seems to just be a continuation of high school? I'm not talking about the homework and curfews. I'm talking about how people react to each other. The girls are still catty. The guys still base everything on looks. And New Year's Eve is prom all over again.

Remember how the girls used to treat each other? If you didn't wear the right brand of clothes they made fun of you. Your boyfriend (or lack of one) was always up for inspection. You were defined pretty much by the group you hung around. Well, in that respect life hasn't changed much since high school.

Girls can still be bitches.

I'm not excluding myself from that statement. I can still make snap judgements about people. I've been known to say something that if just anyone passing by heard it would sound fine, but to the person I said it to it was biting and hurtful. Oh it's usually not about clothes and grades anymore but about jobs, husbands, and who has the biggest house. I just assumed that people (and by that I mean ladies) would eventually grow out of that.

Apparently not.

Making Friendships Work

I've been blessed in the respect that I have a lot of friends and making friends comes fairly easy to me. I'm also blessed to have a wide variety of friends. I have friendships with people that are my age. I have a lot of friendships with people who are older than me. I have guy friends and girl friends.

I'm a lucky girl, but I've discovered that friendships take work...a lot of work. Don't get me wrong, it's always rewarding to make the effort to keep in touch and make time for friends, but sometimes it truly is work. My mom cautioned me in high school to make time for my friends. That sounded crazy then because they were who I was with if I weren't with my parents. But, as I've already alluded to, I tend to get overwhelmed with activities and general business. Unfortunately, it's so easy for me to let the little things like staying in touch slip through the cracks.

I've noticed this a lot recently. I'm usually the person that sends the cards or emails. I've never been a girl that talks a lot on the phone (my parents are still thanking their lucky stars for that!) so my favorite method of staying in touch comes from some sort of written communication. Consequently, I did get into a lot of trouble for writing notes in school. Lately, I've slipped severely in that department. This really hit home when I got an email from a friend asking me if everything was okay because she hadn't heard from me in a while. And just the other night I got to talk to a friend that I haven't talked to in months. Early this week a delightfully funny card showed up in my mailbox from a friend that hardly ever does that. Apparently I was being missed.

I talk about finding balance, but at some point I think it comes down to simply saying I will do this. Friendships are very important to me and I'm a little concerned that I've let so many people slip by (some months on end) without getting in touch or seeing how they have been. I'm ashamed by that and I've committed to rectify that situation.

For those friends that don't live close by...expect mailbox cheer soon! For those friends that are here in blogland....expect some comments. For those friends that are here close by...expect some girls' nights out. For those friends that I've let slip away totally...expect some thoughts and prayers sent your way.

While writing this whole post I've been humming that song I learned in Girl Scouts...."Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold...." How perfect!

Doing What I Shouldn't

Ever have one of those days where you're doing everything you shouldn't?

I shouldn't be blogging at school. Especially since the computer is near students' desks instead of at the desk like at the other school.

I shouldn't have spent my planning period napping...er resting my eyes. I shouldn't have enjoyed the little day dream about lining up these brats and shooting them...with a cannon. Okay, I don't seriously want to line them up and shoot them. I don't look good in orange and life behind bars doesn't appeal to me.

I shouldn't be thinking about taking another trip to NYC with D again. She wants to go and I admit that I probably could find someone to take me bar hopping....hint hint Deb!

I shouldn't be wearing these shoes. They hurt my feet and aren't particularly flattering, but my mom bought them for me so I'm trying to break them in.

I shouldn't be whining because nothing is really wrong...just busy and wishing I could have slept a little later this morning.

So, what shouldn't you have done today?

Just Your Typical Day

I'm busy people. Yeah, I know you're probably thinking "How busy can she be?" and the answer is extremely busy. And unfortunately, blogging is suffering. Oh blogging isn't the only thing, but it is certainly an important thing. I never would have thought blogging would be so much fun or relaxing for me, but it is. And I hate having to say I don't have time for a post....though I do have some time to skim my comments and leave a few comments on other people's blogs. Anyway, I thought today would be a good example of busy and it might entertain my readers. And hopefully, it will show that I truly am busy and not just blog slipping. Hang with me people!

5:45am (I know!...who knew it came twice in one day?) The alarm goes off. Thankfully it's set for a country music station so I'm not rattled out of bed by a ridiculously loud BEEP BEEP BEEP

5:46am I wake up enough to at least find the snooze button and hit it. Because I was tired last night I didn't take a shower on the pretense that I'd take one this morning. Thinking I could just do a fancy updo to my hair (which do better dirty) and do a quick hit-the-main-areas wash Id' be fine.

5:51am The alarm goes off again. Damn. I hit snooze and turn back over...again. Then I do a quick foot run down my calf and feel the stubble. Crap. (I have dark hair from the top of my head straight on down my body to my toes so it's noticeable when I don't shave.) I turn the alarm off and stumble into the bathroom.

5:55am - 6:25am Go to the bathroom, wash my face, shower, shave, dry off

6:25am - 7:15am Put on my make up, dry my hair (which frizzed by the way...nuts), dress. Thankfully, I had time to plan what I was going to wear while I was in the shower. Actually...how sad is this...I knew where the jewelry was to a certain outfit so that is what I wore. I'm a girl that likes to coordinate from jewelry to shoes to handbag.

7:15am - 7:30am Eat breakfast, look at what is in my email inbox. I didn't check it...just saw what was in there. Read my blog comments and made a morning stop at a few favorites. Packed a lunch (fruit and a hot pocket for those of you wondering), said goodbye and went to school...err I mean work.

7:30am - 3:15pm School. Not a lot happened during the day. The art teacher was there (that is actually a really good program...a local artist teaches some type of technique (today was blending colors) through the local museum) so I got to sit at the back of the room and read a book. Seriously...I got paid a sorry sum of money to read. I got through 14 chapters of a book by one of my favorite authors. Uhm maybe I shouldn't brag about that kind of thing....

3:15pm - 3:30pm Drive over to my part time job. Yawn and think this is like the middle of my day. I also thought about why I stretch myself so thin. I tend to get cranky (shock...I know) and I also tend to get these huge dark circles under my eyes when my body hasn't had enough rest. Resolve to spend at least three nights a week at home....starting next week because I'm already booked for this week.

3:30pm - 6:30pm Part time job. Today was interesting. Starting with the fact that the lady that sets out the snacks left milk (yeah you read that right...milk) for the kids. The cartons were warm to the touch. I refused to give the kids hot milk, but a few (two boys...go figure) drank some of the curdled milk. I'm gagging just thinking about it. Anyway, to cut out a lot of grossness lets just say they didn't end up drinking that milk. We cleaned our room. I should say I supervised and the kids cleaned. I finally got what my meant about having kids so you don't have to clean anymore! We watched a little of Pirates Of The Caribbean. Johnny Depp is so hot. Hmmm Sorry..where was I? Oh yeah, we let a kid go home with a lady that wasn't authorized to pick him up. Thankfully, that situation turned out okay but we're expecting a staff meeting just anytime this week. Finally...time to leave.

6:30pm - 7:00pm Take out...again. I read somewhere that it isn't healthy to eat in your car. If the fast food wrappers in my front passenger floorboard is anything to go by I'm obviously not following the food pyramid. Anyway, I eat and drive out to a friend's house for a Creative Memories party.

7:00 - 9:00 This party...that I've been to about five times before. I'm sick of making these dang story card things! I said at the last one that I'd turn down anymore invitations to this kind of thing. I do scrapbook, but I'm not all about the CM cult. But, another friend has just started being the sultan...I mean consultant and I couldn't say no. Bad Steffany...Just Say NO!!! Well of course I couldn't leave without buying something so I bought this little sorter thing for photos. I think I'll actually use it. But NO MORE CM PARTIES STEFFANY!

9:00pm - 9:30pm Drive back into town and catch up with a friend I haven't talked to in a few days. Decide that other friend lives too far out in the freaking country to be driving alone at night.

9:30pm - 10:20pm Catch my mom up on all the latest gossip I heard at the party. Watch the tail end of a show, watch the weather, turn back my bed, think about putting off blogging and crawling into cool sheets and sleeping, decide no, I haven't blogged in a while.

10:20pm - now (currently 11:08pm) Blog about my day like people actually care about the ins and outs of my daily routine. You do right...I'd hate to think this was all for nuttin'...lol.

Well, there you have it folks. This is what my life will be like until the end of school and then I'll fall into a more normal routine...hopefully. So, while I might not make it to blogland as often as I'd like, or leave snickery comments or comments period very often please know that I still adore my blogging buddies. I just can't show it right now. Be prepared for some pretty fluffy posts until I can learn to balance!

Okay...bed is calling and I'm answering.

Smurfy Confusion (Cleared!!!)

My first post in several days and it's a post of not much substance. You know...the kind that will probably amuse a few, disgust a few, send anonymous after me with threats of the "there is a name for girls like you...", and hopefully be a little thought provoking for a few.

I was at one of those social engagements this weekend (partying with my girl Jamie and Sophia...if she'd get her bum in gear and get her blogger up I'd link her too) and the subject of Smurfs came up. Here is a little snippet of the conversation:

This Blogger: "Where did all the baby smurfs come from if Smurfette was the only girl smurf in the clan?"

Favorite Store Owner: "No, there were other female smurfs. There was an episode where a Mama smurf was looking for a baby smurf."

S%phia (who doesn't have her blogger up yet): "Nope...it was just Smurfette."

FSO: "You're going to have to prove that one to me."

Wicked Friday Night Hostess: "Nope..it was just Smurfette."

S(WDHHBUY): "Face it...she took one for the team."

WFNH: "More like she took one from the team."

So...here is the question...was Smurfette the only girl smurf?

(How many of you are wondering what the heck I did Friday night? LOL)

Answer: What would I do without my favorite Baloobas?!! I'd still be wondering about these smurfy things. Thanks chick for getting this cleared up for me!!!

There were THREE female smurfs. Smurfette was originally supposed to be bad (guess you were right Mike...the tramp). Sassette Smurf was created to be a sister for the smurfs (and I might mention there was a little link you could click to see how she was "created"...yeah blue guys three apples tall creating a girl smurf...not what I want to see at 11pm). And lastly there was Nanny Smurf...who as her name emplies was the smurfs' nanny. Alas...we can all rest easy.

Gone But Not Dead

Between subbing, working, social engagements, and doctor appointments for this neck thing I've fallen behind on blogging. Hopefully, I'll be back later in the week.

Jamie

These layouts were inspired by Jamie's garden. Unfortunately, these pictures DO NOT do justice to these pages. They are absolutely beautiful in person.
The title of this page is "and there HE gives me sweet PEACE" The secondary title of this layout is directly above the ribbon flowers in the bottom left hand corner and says "Jamie's Garden".
The journaling says: A few weeks ago I was very stressed out and my friend Jamie sent me some pictures from her garden. I always feel peaceful when I look at flowers. They remind me that God will always provide for me and my needs. They do bring me sweet peace!

I've never been to Jamie's garden, but I would bet that it is a very beautiful and peaceful place. If you've never been over to her blog, I'd encourage you to stop by and scroll through a few of her past posts and see some of her flower/garden pictures. The colors are so vivid you'd swear you could stroke the petals and smell their pleasing fragrance. It isn't just Jamie's garden and flowers that warm my heart, but all gardens. Unfortunately for me, and the long line of flowers I've killed trying to disprove my point, I have a brown thumb. I can kill silk flowers. But, I have a high respect for those people that seem to touch the ground and beautiful things begin to grow. Perhaps if your soul is restless today you can stop by Jamie's, Bethany's, or Linda's blog and simply be still and find peace through their amazing garden pictures.

Loose Ends

The last two weeks have been full of all kinds of activity in my life. So, since I don't have much blog worthy news today, I'd tie up a few of those loose ends. I'd hate to leave my adoring fans (all two of you...lol) wondering.

Nanny: It was determined that she had a massive heart attack. She's doing as well as can be expected, but she can no longer live alone. Yesterday she was transferred to a nursing home. She has been relatively passive about going which if you knew her you'd know that was completely uncharacteristic for her. I'm sure settling into this new routine will have bumps, but so far the going has been smooth.

MRI: I thought since my doctor didn't call last week, it meant that there wasn't anything wrong. Well, by Tuesday I hadn't heard so I called to double check. The nurse said that he had just received the results and X-rays that morning and he'd call back after he read them. Within the hour he was calling me back. I have a bulging disc in my neck that is close but not yet compressing on any nerves. Also, according to the X-rays, I'm having severe muscle spasms in my neck. So, I'm going to start on a steroid pack to try and relieve the pressure and shrink the disc back into place. I'll go back for follow-up next week sometime.

Jobs: I got a new job!!! That is exciting. Yesterday went so much better than Tuesday. I guess the kids got their button pushing done then so we were able to have fun and actually learn yesterday. We made parachutes to talk about gravity and wind resistance...how cool is that? Anyway, I was also offered full time (40 hours a week) in the summer at double digit rate of pay. This is a very good thing.

That should bring you up to speed. Nothing new much going on...just settling into routines now.

Effective Birth Control

Today was my first day at my new job. But, it kind of reminds me of an old job. Let me explain...I'm an instructor for this after-school program that is government funded. My job will be to have a thirty minute instruction time (where I make worksheets come alive) followed by an hour of homework time, and then forty-five minutes of enrichment. That's a fancy way of saying free time. Anyway, that's how the afternoon is supposed to go.

Here is where the old job part comes in: the kids are the same 5th grade students that I had when I did my long term sub assignment at the first of the year. (Those of you that were around and gave me such a hard time about blogging at school...those kids.) Anyway, it's the same hateful, rude, pains-in-the-butt as I had for eight weeks. That didn't sound very teacherish did it? Not all are that way...just enough to really make life miserable when we're all in a little room.

Though I do have to say that a great part of my afternoon was when the kids lined up and the recognized me. Some came right up and gave me a hug. Others' faces just fell. I guess they were sure that they had gotten rid of me. Even though today was my first day, the site director left me with about 30 kids who were not supposed to make a peep until they reached the center. As soon as she was in her car they started talking and basically talked right over me. As anyone in the teaching profession can attest to, nothing is more humiliating than kids not caring what you say and then acting like little demons as you helplessly watch. Yeah, I'd have killed for a whistle today. I'm supposed to be getting one tomorrow.

So, we make it back to the center and the kids get hyped up on their "healthy snack" of soda and cookies. That's when the director walks in and asks how the ride went. I told her they were completely out of control and that I thought a whistle might have come in handy. That's when she marched them into another room and made them stand on the wall for 15 minutes. Then she made them write this paragraph about being a person of worth 15 times. Yeah...those kids can't wait for me to come back tomorrow. At least I'll know a few things to be prepared for:

1. Wear shoes. I wore my sparkly purple flipflops today with my painted toes. I should have remembered that these kids thought I was a snob by the way I dressed when I was their substitute. There were plenty of comments about my "rich girl" shoes. Kids are cruel.

2. Do not flirt (and to 5th graders that means smile or look at) the other teacher in the room. He's this huge tall black guy and I'm this short curvy white girl. I'm sure you can imagine the rounds of "Sitting in a tree...".

3. Start practicing being loud. I mean really...I'm going to yell everything tomorrow morning so I'll be in good shape when work time rolls around. Maybe I'll invest in one of those bull horn things.

4. Last but not least....shrug off all those insecure feelings. I AM the teacher. I AM in charge. I CAN make life miserable for these kids. I WILL be respected.

So, yeah...today was very effective birth control. It reminded me of an email I'd gotten recently that said teenagers (and tweenagers are just as bad!) are God's punishment for enjoying sex.

Amen.

It's Interview Time...Again (Post Script)

Well, I have an interview scheduled for Monday afternoon. And before you ask...no it's NOT for a teaching position but it is in a classroom/tutoring setting. The hours are good because they would work around subbing. And it would be steady...which my current job status is lacking. The lady that interviewed me the first time said she'd be surprised if I wasn't hired on the spot. I'm refraining from any sort of hope. I know...that probably sounds very wrong, but I've discovered that gearing myself up for a good thing and then it not being a good thing is tough. So, I'm going to be cautiously optimistic. I suppose I'll have some sort of a better feeling next week. We'll see.

Post Script: There is a twisted little journey to the end of this tale. Yesterday (Sunday) my mom saw an ad in the paper for the same summer position that I had last year. I loved that job and had a blast! So, I wanted to apply. I figured I might have a leg up considering I was the assistant last year. Well, as things normally do, there were some changes. The person that hired me last year isn't the same person that is there this year. And while she does know me and our chat this morning seemed to go well, I'm not banking on anything. Oh did I mention that this job (if I get it) would start the first of May? Well, I went ahead and kept my interview time with the after school program job. And I was offered the position...I start tomorrow! How cool is that :o) Okay...dilemma. I want the summer job. I couldn't turn down this job. So, I have a job and a plan in case I'm offered the other summer job. I kept telling my mom how it would all work if this happened and then what if this happened and finally what if this happened. She said "what if you wake up from this dream sometime soon?". Yeah, I have a real helpful parent. Anyway, I start tomorrow and we'll see how it goes. I am excited though!!! Is it okay to be more excited by the paycheck than the actual job? I hope so.

Pain In The Neck

I've come to the conclusion that I know too many old people. Okay...maybe I should say older people. I know of two people who aren't what I'd call old...okay I would call Mike old but I was brought up to be respectful of my elders...that have had or are having neck and back problems. And I think it's wearing off on me or I'm having some dang strong sympathy pains.

I went to the doctor last Friday because I'd been having some severe neck pain and headaches for about three weeks. Why wait three weeks? Well it could be that I have a man issue...why go to the doctor when you're actually not feeling good but it was more like I thought I'd just slept wrong. So, I shoved the pillows all off my bed and slept with one. I tried using some fancy neck pillow. I gave up and just started taking a daily regimen of Advil. But, when the headaches started I figured I'd better have it checked out.

Well, the first thing he asked me was if I'd had any head trauma recently. I said no, but that I had accidentally hit my head on the window seal next to my bed. (And no...you get to wonder what I was doing.) It did occur about the same time but I really hadn't put it together that that might have caused this. Anyway, he feels around on me and says that I need an MRI of my neck and writes me a prescription for some pain medicine. (I have issues about taking heavy narcotics so I was leary and to be truthful I've only taken two since last Friday. They pack a punch.)

Well, the MRI was yesterday afternoon. Now, I'm not normally a claustrophobic person. And I'd had an MRI about three years ago when my migraines were diagnosed. It wasn't too bad. They gave me headphones with country music playing so it sort of drowned out the jack hammering of the machine. Well, no headphones this time. And I was in a different room and the table had a neck brace thing I had to wear. Also, they put a mask type thing over my face. I'm not even in the tunnel yet and I'm already starting to feel sick to my stomach.

I calmly asked how long this would take and then nearly flipped out when she said I'd be in there about 30 minutes. Seeing as how I'm 24 and big girls don't cry, I took deep breaths and started praying that I wouldn't flip out. I went in up to my chest. Okay...this wasn't too bad. I closed my eyes so I wasn't seeing just how trapped I was and there was a nice breeze in there so I thought I'd be fine. Then the jackhammer noise started. I wanted out! And then after the first round of pictures she pushed me in even further.

I tried to think of all kinds of things to take my mind off the sound, the tight space, and the trapped feeling. I thought about being on a beach with wide open space. I tried thinking of how I'd write this post. I thought about taking a nap. And then I started thinking about being in a casket. I guess I started to wiggle because the tech came in and said I couldn't move my legs and hands so much. After that I told her that I didn't like it in there and she said it's okay...most people don't. Anyway, I did manage to make it through the entire time without throwing up or flipping out...too much. When I got out of there I had to go and have some neck X-rays taken.

Talk about a pain in the neck. All I have to say is that I'd better have something wrong with me to justify those thirty minutes of hell in the MRI machine.

D N R (Updated)

Death has a smell. It is surprisingly clean and sterile. Death has a sound. It is remarkably silent. So silent that you become acutely aware of the sounds around you...the steady beep beep beep of a machine, the tick of a clock, the even puffs of breath from the dying.

My great grandmother is dying.

Yesterday my mom and I found her in her house. She was sitting in the kitchen half naked and clutching a candy sack and an ad from the paper. She thought it was the telephone. We called to her and she kept asking if we could hear her. She was aware enough to tell us that she had a severe headache and that she couldn't see. She didn't understand that we were right there in the house with her. I called 911. She was extremely disoriented. She fought the paramedics because she didn't understand what was happening. At the ER we waited for the doctors to tell us anything...to help us understand what had happened. It could have been a minor stroke. It could have been a pain medication overdose. We will probably never know.

The sedation medicine that they are giving her is causing her heart to weaken. She had a heart condition to begin with so this is wearing it away even more. She had to be taken off all pain medication. The look of agony on her face is something I won't soon forget. Our family had to make the choice to not resuscitate her should she have a heart attack. My parents have both told me that they don't want to be saved to only have a long and painful existence. It seems so easy to say that, but yesterday it was the hardest thing I had to witness. We've chosen to make her comfortable until the end.

Tonight, the doctor came in and told my mom and aunt that she was dangerously close to having a massive heart attack. So, they have taken her off of all the sedation medicine. They want to make sure that she is as alert as she is going to get. And if this is it then she'll most likely be moved up to hospice and all medicine will be stopped. She'll be given enough pain medicine to be kept comfortable which in turn will probably trigger the heart attack.

Last week she was being her old cranky self and basically making sure that everyone around her was as miserable as she was and if you weren't she was going to make you feel guilty for it. My mom takes the brunt of most of this and this time it was especially bad. I couldn't help but think how much better it would be when she was dead. And now here she is...dying. Tonight I told her I was sorry and that I loved her. Then I whispered sleep tight and I left. There is a very good chance that will be the last time I see her alive.

I think the waiting is the worst part of death. There won't be a sudden incident. There won't be those regrets that I didn't get to say goodbye. There will only be the long waiting and watching.

I probably won't be on again until the waiting is over, so to those of you who will stop by, thank you in advance for the thoughts and prayers.

UPDATE: We got a call last night but it wasn't news we expected to hear. Nanny's heart settled into a normal rhythm and she began to wake up. She knew she was in a hospital and she recognized my mom. The doctors have determined that she had a heart attack but the medicines have brought it back to it's normal condition. This is good news. The watch is over, but the family still has some rough days ahead. She can no longer live by herself (a feat in itself for a 90 year old woman) and will have to be put into a nursing home. She has always said she'd rather be dead than go to a nursing home, but at this point the family has no choice. She needs constant care that we can not provide. My grandfather and great uncle are coming in today to make arrangements. Nanny doesn't have a great relationship with either son so this has the makings of a battle. While this situation isn't critical any longer, it will still be a stressful one for my family. For those of you who called and/or left comments thank you. Friends are what get you though times like this.

Beauty Among The Thorns

Yesterday I went with a fellow scrapbooker to this beautiful patch of bluebonnets. We wanted to take some pictures while the flowers were still lush and at their prettiest. Little did we know that bluebonnets wouldn't be the only things out in that field.

I've lived in Texas my entire life and I know that in fields of wildflowers there are usually bugs, stickers, and weeds. I'm not sure what made me think wearing flip flops out there was going to be a good idea. It might have been the fact that I was running late or it was just a few degrees shy of 100 yesterday, but whatever the reason, I was wearing flip flops.

As soon as I took three steps into the field, I had stickers covering my shoes, the bottom of my jeans, and in my feet. And these weren't you garden variety stickers. Oh no...these are the big boys of stickers. The kind that stay when they prick your skin. The kind that the needles break off from the center when you try to remove it so you're left with splinters. I finally managed to get them out of my jeans. Then my friend tells me to sit down on the ground so she can take my picture. At this point I'm questioning the smartness of that command. "I don't think so A." "Okay...then squat or kneel. I'll snap fast." So down on one knee I go. My right knee to be precise. (This will be important later.) I can feel stickers sinking through my jeans and into my flesh. Needless to say, there aren't too many pictures of me kneeling in the field.

Anyhow, I traded places with her. Her family trots out into the field and squats down (owie doesn't even describe the pain) and I snap a few pictures. We agree that the bluebonnets are beautiful but we're ready to go. After taking a few minutes to get the final sticker splinters out of the knee of my jeans I got in my car, waved goodbye, and drove off. I'd gone about three miles when my knee started to feel like it was on fire. I rubbed with my palm and didn't really feel any splinters but I thought there might be a few inside so I quit rubbing them and just drove.

Here is the turning point...where my day went from good to horrible in the space of about 20 minutes. I had to drop some film off to be developed, get gas, and then go home. All the while, my knee is still burning and itching like crazy. I pulled into the drug store's parking lot. I ran in and got the film taken care of. I came back out to my car and decided to take a look at my knee. I rolled my jeans up to my knee and to my surprise my knee looks like I've just been bitten by 100 fire ants. I have red swollen whelps forming all over my knee. It's red and warm to the touch and did I mention it itched? I'm having a major allergic reaction. I should have known what it was. I'm allergic to anything remotely related to the outdoors. I get two allergy shots twice a week...that is four shots a week. What made me think getting down in the grass was a good idea? Okay, I decided to just go home and take some Benadryl and put a cool washcloth on my knee.

Problem...the car won't start. I figured I had just pushed it too far on E. So, I whipped out my trusty cell phone and dialed home. No answer. I called my mom's cell and asked why they weren't answering the house phone. They weren't at home but out of town at the lake. Great. It'll take them about 45 minutes to get to me. So, can you picture this....I'm tired, got sticker splinters in my pants, having an allergic reaction, and now I need to just sit tight for about an hour. I wasn't a happy camper. Tears were threatening.

Well, my parents finally come to the rescue. My dad shows me the finer points of blowing and sucking to get the gas out of the can and into my car. Let's just say I'm a AAA kind of girl. I'm never going to suck gas out of a can and into my car. (Yes I know what saying never means but I'm paid up for AAA so I feel fairly secure in my neverness.) Well, the car still doesn't start. Long story short...dead battery.

About 9:45pm everyone gets home and we finally sit down to eat dinner. Yesterday evening wasn't my best. And to think it all started with me just wanting a few pictures of these blue babies.

Happy Easter!

Have a wonderful Easter holiday...however you choose to spend it!!

(I know this is early, but I've got a busy weekend planned and I didn't want to forget. :o) )

Altered

This is my latest crafty project. I took a class on making altered clipboards several weeks ago. I made one for a friend that had just come back from Cozumel. This one is for a friend that is going to Tahiti. Anyway, they are totally cheap (those friends that got them don't take that the wrong way!) and I like making them!

The saying says "The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings."

Living In TV Land

Recently I've been introduced to "classic" television. Last week, while on a working hiatus, I spent a lot of time at home. Anyway, I discovered that each afternoon my mom watches TV Land. The line up includes Gunsmoke, Bonanza, Leave It To Beaver, and The Andy Griffith Show. And I also discovered that my television knowledge is sorely lacking.

Yesterday we caught a Gunsmoke marathon. When my dad said "Marshall Dylan" I was like the guy with Miss Kitty? Yep...one in the same. I'd heard about Marshall Dylan and Miss Kitty in a country song. My dad just laughed. I also asked him if Matt and Miss Kitty ever got married. He said no, but he did see a movie where she came back to tell him that he had a daughter. I jokingly said "I thought people didn't have sex back in black and white." He informed me that they didn't. That movie was made AFTER the original Gunsmoke and you'd never see anyone getting it on...they didn't do that. Okay.

After watching all these classic and wholesome television shows, I kind of feel dirty watching season one of Nip/Tuck. Okay...I felt a little dirty watching Nip/Tuck before, but you know what I mean. What happened? When did we as a society stop being entertained by families and clean TV and need to be entertained by the garbage that is on now? I'm not being cruel when I say garbage either...I watch my fair share. But compared to what it used to be...we've sunk very low.

(And speaking of sinking low...this is a shameless plug to watch Survivor this week...Shane has a ummm rash on his ummm thingy. This should make for hilarious garbage on Thursday. And I bet no one has missed the Survivor recaps (yeah all you whiners out there that don't like reality tv or the recaps) but for those few of you (Annette and Trina) that did I'm directing you to a site that has a wonderful recap. They are hilarious! It's at www.televisionwithoutpity.com and there are several shows on there that you can find in depth recaps for. Okay...plug over.)


Well, I'd better wrap this up...Timmy just fell in the well and Lassie is about to save him!

Because I'm Lazy....

....I'm doing one of those quiz posts. And really...there wasn't much blog worthy that happened today. Those of you following the previous post (seriously...get a life because laundry isn't that interesting...lol) I washed and changed the bedsheets. I took the Christmas comforter off and put the old spring floral one back on. Don't judge me! And I'm trying my hand at dinner tonight...how hard is it to mess up sketti?

I'm a Lamborghini!

You're not subtle, but you don't want to be. Fast, loud, and dramatic, you want people to notice you, and then get out of the way. In a world full of sheep, you're a raging bull.

Surprisingly, pretty accurate.

Have you ever given thought as to what kind of car you might be? If you were a car? Me neither but I stumbled across this site and took their 12 question test.

Visit http://www.tomorrowland.us/sportscar/ and have a laugh

Domestic Goddess I'm NOT

This week has been a very slow week for subbing...slow as in absolutely not one job. So, I've spent a good amount of time at home. Many people would think that this would be a great time to do a little spring cleaning, home organization...you know...basic domestic goddess stuff. Well, guess what? There is no domestic goddess living here.

I was asked to vacuum the living room, sweep the kitchen and dining room, clean the bathroom, and wash the dog. As of this morning, the bathroom is still calling my name and the poor dog has been banished from the couch due to the "dog" smell. I did manage to get the sweeping and vacuuming done...yesterday. I refuse to believe that I'm not normal because I don't get this almost orgasmic feeling from cleaning the house.

And it's not just cleaning. I like to cook. I like to try out new recipes. Some are good and some aren't so good. Italian smothered pork chops didn't go over so well. But anyway, sometimes I have technical difficulties in the kitchen. Did you know that you can't skillet fry chicken with a Parmesan cheese coating? I learned this when I blackened the chesse, set off the smoke detectors, and the chicken was still raw in the center. Anyone want to come over for dinner?

I'm not totally lacking...I can do laundry. I know how to sort it, wash it, hang it up, and fold it. I might have a little trouble with the ironing. Sadly, I'm lacking in this area. Yesterday I ironed a shirt (that I was going to wear to a job fair) on a TV tray. It didn't look too bad. This is why I'm a big fan of dry cleaning. They do it for you.

Why this whole diatribe about being a domestic goddess...or lack there of? It's a stalling tactic. As soon as this posts I have to get up and get busy. I guess putting it off isn't going to make it go away. So...I'm off.

Tagged

Well, this is what happens when you build up a little blog address book...you get tagged! I'm not tagging anyone else...if you choose to be tagged more power to you! If not...no love lost.

5 Snacks I Enjoy

• Gummy candy (gummy pizza and burgers by Troll are my favorite!)
• Peanuts in my Coke
• Thick and Creamy yogurt
• chips
• #7 combo from Sonic (cheese sticks and Ocean Water)

5 Songs To Which I Know All The Lyrics

• Pull My Chain by Toby Keith
• White Flag by Dido
• I Grieve by Peter Gabriel
• If Walls Could Talk by Celine
• Jesse James by Cher

5 Things I Would Do If I Were A Millionaire

• Travel...a lot!
• Pay off my student loans
• Build a scrapbook room
• Find a favorite charity
• Invest

5 Bad Habits

• Biting my nails
• Not making my bed every morning
• gossiping
• Over committing myself and being stretched too thin
• I occasionally slurp my milk

5 Things I Like Doing

• Scrapbooking!
• Shopping
• Watching Survivor, The West Wing, Grey's Anatomy
• Bowling
• Blogging and checking my mail

5 Things I Would Never Wear, Buy, Or Get New Again

• A membership to a dating website
• Stilettos
• Eyelets
• Watermelon Extra Bubble Gum (Ick)
• Murder By Numbers DVD

5 Favorite Toys

• Xyron Machine
• Balderdash
• Cell Phone
• Computer
• TV

Interview Nerves (Post Script)

I have an interview tomorrow. It's like a duel interview....there are two possible positions up for grabs. I actually called about the part time one (thanks to Q.B. I'm just not getting around enough) and the lady actually suggested that I apply for the full time position. This is all very good and I'm excited. But, I'm also nervous.

I got my first real job my senior year of high school. They interviewed me and I got the job. That pattern continued through-out college. I actually got a little cocky...there wasn't a job out there that I'd applied for that I didn't get. That is until it came time to get an actual career going. Then I got passed over so many times it actually got to the point where I didn't even want to try and interview. So, can you see where the nerves come in?

I think I'd like this job...either one. Anyway, I spent tonight polishing up my resume so I'm ready to go. It's tomorrow. Afternoon. So, if you stop by before let me know some things I can do to relax and be un-nervous and then wish me luck!

Post Script: First, thanks to all of you who wished me well! Keep wishing because I have a follow up interview that is still in the process of being scheduled.

When I arrived, I gave my name and the receptionist handed me a thick stack of forms to fill out. It was everything from a standard application to a spelling test. The spelling test stressed me out because I am NOT a good speller. The words were spelled and they asked you to check the ones that weren't spelled correctly. Talk about pressure! Anyway, after I fill out this massive stack of forms, the lady asks me if there was a certain position I was interested in and then says "Oh...you didn't need to fill these out. But you did very well. Just a sec and I'll get you set up with Carole." Well a little spelling practice never hurts.

As it turns out, the lady that interviewed me is actually someone that I met through my job last summer. I'm always glad for small favors. We'll see if that works out in my favor or not.

Anyway, as I was leaving she gave me a time sheet. She said it was in the hopes that things went really well with the next interview. She's supposed to be getting back to me on when that will be. Apparently the lady that is to interview me next is out of town.

So, now you know as much as I did. The jobs sound challenging and fun...always a good combination. I'll keep you posted!