Lakewood

I was in Houston this weekend and I had the opportunity to visit Lakewood Church. For those of you who don't know, Lakewood Church is the largest church in the United States and is pastored by Joel Osteen. That is a fact. From here on out, everything else said in this post is strictly the opinion of me, Steffany, the author of this blog.

I grew up in church. It was a Baptist church to be more precise. Our church is probably moderate in size. These days I would say that I know about half the membership directory, but in my hay day (while I still lived at home) I knew practically everyone. That fact comes from having grown up in church. My family went three times a week. I was actively involved in the youth department. I sang in the choir. The pastor knew my name. Since then, I've been a member of one other church and I regularly attend church here, but I haven't switched my membership. Through all my years, I've come to the conclusion that church isn't so much about the building or programs. It's about the people and the fellowship of like-minded believers.

My first experience with anything Lakewood or Joel Osteen came just a few months ago. My parents and I were in town looking for somewhere for me to live when I moved and it was a Sunday morning. We flipped through the TV channels and came upon the televised service at Lakewood. I will admit that Joel Osteen was a powerful preacher. The message was great and I actually found that it applied to me. I know that was when I first felt the desire to visit that church if I ever had the chance. And several times after that, I made it a point to catch the televised service on TV. I was still impressed.

Imagine my surprise and delight to discover that someone I worked with was a member of Lakewood Church. I plied her with questions like "Is he really that humble in person?", "Does he always have that plastic smile on his face?", and "What's it like to be a member of the largest church in America?". Thankfully, she was patient and answered my questions good naturedly. Anyway, when this weekend came up I asked her if we could go to Lakewood since we'd still be in town. She readily agreed that this was a great idea.

I had jokingly asked if the service was going to be like a rock concert. She looked at me a little put out and said no. Again, I jokingly said I guess that meant I couldn't ask him to sign my Bible. Yeah, that wasn't well received either. I assured her that I knew how to mind my manners and I would not cause any embarrassment for her. Unfortunately, I believe the effect of Lakewood has lost it's novelty for her. For me, it was an eye-opening experience and sort of left a bad taste in my mouth.

Let me explain.

Lakewood is a huge church, but I wasn't prepared for just how huge. We parked in a parking garage next to the church and took our place in a long line of people making their way up the ramps, across the street, and into the building. And the building doesn't look like a church either. It's very square and has a downtown business plaza feel. Anyway, when we went into the stadium...I mean sanctuary...well it's just as awesome looking in person as it does on the TV. We made our way down to the front section. I mentioned to one of many ushers that I was a visitor and I suppose that meant we could sit in the VIP section. It was roped off and everything.

At this point, I was sure that the message would be lost on me as I took in this massive sanctuary. There were three huge screens. On either side of the choir loft (that is a terrible description, but I'm at a loss of words to describe the two sides where the choir stood) were these rock and water type garden things. Yeah...the water flows and everything. The people...my goodness. There were so many of them. I kind of wondered if it was a camera trick that all the seats were filled. It isn't.

The church is huge and the sanctuary is lavish. There isn't anything bad or good about that...it's just a fact. I started feeling uncomfortable when the choir came in and it truly was like a rock concert. A Christian rock concert but one none the less. The choir was all but dancing up there in the loft. Hands were raised, people were clapping their hands, bodies were moving...some in a manner I don't think befitting of a church. I had asked my friend where Joel Osteen was and she told me that he and his wife come in during the first song so as not to disrupt the service. Disrupt the service? I wasn't sure what that meant.

It meant that if we lived back in Bible times and palm fronds were around these people would be waving them and crying "Hosanna". I kid you not...camera flashes were going off when Joel Osteen walked up to the pulpit. I wasn't impressed. At this point, I had to look inward and wonder what exactly I wasn't impressed with. I'm sure that Satan was playing with my heart and mind. I know that I wouldn't be able to live up to such a warm "reception" service after service, week after week without a little of it going to my head. I guess I wasn't able to leave the thought alone that he must take some pleasure in the way the congregation was behaving. I suppose the only people that know just how humble his heart is would be Joel Osteen and God.

Now, I did truly enjoy the message. I was able to put aside my distaste with the pageantry of the service and focus on that aspect. It was a good one. And just like all the rest, I was able to relate it to my own life. That is about the only thing I took away from Lakewood. My friend asked me if I wanted to go back to the visitors' reception and meet Joel Osteen and his family. At the beginning of the day I would have jumped at the chance, but by the end of the two hour service I politely declined. I think as far as my connection to Joel Osteen and Lakewood should go no further than my TV on Sunday mornings.

On the way back to her house, she asked how I enjoyed it. I told her that I enjoyed the message, but that Lakewood wouldn't be a church I would want to be a part of on a regular basis. I could tell she didn't get it and that was okay with me. She probably would find a small service at my church not to her liking. Some people can be satisfied with being part of something nationally recognized, on TV every week, not being known from Adam by their pastor, and all the production. I couldn't.

I'm still going to watch Joel Osteen on TV (I do like the way he preaches) but I can't help but wonder what Joel Osteen would be like without the stadium, the cameras in peoples' faces (yes, even during the personal prayer partner time), the national recognition, the thousands of members, the flashy house, all that stuff that keep him on the pedestal.

An Early-To-Bed-er

Last night I made a startling discovery....I'm actually an old fart in the body of a young and fresh twenty-something. It's okay. I had to take a moment to let it set in too.

This all came about because a friend wanted me to come over and hang out last night. Normally, I'd jump at the chance, but last night it was about 9:30 when she called. I should add in that I was coming off of a touch of the stomach virus so that might have played a part...though an extremely small one. Anyway, I glanced at my clock (9:34pm) and then I took in my surroundings (under the covers, in my bed, in my pajamas, with sleepy crusts already forming in the corner of my eyes) and decided that it was just "too late" for tonight.

And then that is when she lowered the boom on me..."You're such an old fart!". Okay, so I admit...I like to go to bed early. I still have a bedtime and I pretty much follow it regularly. I didn't like being called an old fart but I couldn't argue. Then came the worst part. "Oh well...it is past your bedtime. Sleep tight Granny! See you in the morning."

Apparently, being an old fart wasn't just a one time thing. I guess it's something I am all the time. So, it brings to mind a few questions.

What exactly is an old fart?

I think of old farts being old...really old. And they are grouchy. I'm not really old. I'm not even regularly old. I'm young. I'm in the prime of my life. I'm living the carefree life of a woman in her mid-twenties. Oh, I'm doing all that, but on the sleeping schedule of an old person. And I'm not grouchy. Okay, fine...I'm not grouchy very much. I think it's because I'm getting enough sleep people!

Is being responsible equal to being an old fart?

Just because I make sure I'm in bed where I can get a reasonable 7-8 hours of sleep a night doesn't mean I'm an old fart. It means that I'm a responsible adult. I make sure that my body has the energy to go and do all those twenty-something activities. By getting a good night's sleep, I'm being responsible with my body. Just the other day I read all kinds of benefits that come to your body from getting sleep. And, hello...the biggest one of all...I have a job that requires me to get up early (5:45 IN THE MORNING) so it just makes sense to get a good night's sleep.

What bedtime qualifies one to be an old fart?

When I think of old folks going to bed, I think of them hitting the sack in the afternoon. I definitely don't do that! So what if I go to bed about 10pm on most nights? I think that is a perfectly normal time to start winding down for the day. I think it just seems early considering that my accuser usually rolls into bed about 2am. Yeah...I don't have the sleeping habits of an old person. She has the sleeping habits of an infant...always up in the middle of the night.

Should I really have to defend my sleeping habits?

NO! My sleeping habits are keeping me healthy, well rested, and not so grouchy. I don't sleep with anyone so I'm not having to worry if someone is ready for bed. I should be able to go to bed at 10pm if I want to and you know what? Most of the time I want to!

So there it is. A twenty-something year old can also be an old fart when it comes to going to bed. Hmm...that wasn't as hard as I thought it'd be!

Like A Starburst...Sorta

It's the height of flu season at school. Monday there were four kids absent and I sent three more home with temperatures over 101. Today there were five kids absent and I sent one home with a fever about mid-morning. I think I'm turning into one of those germ-a-phobs who wash their hands every five seconds, bathe in hand sanitizer, and actually like the smell of Lysol!

I've been lucky this year that I've only caught one thing (knocking on wood) this year. It was bronchitis in October. But, today I started feeling a little tired and achy. My head began to hurt and it throbbed even more with every tummy ache complaint and sniffle. I feel like I should wear some bubble outfit tomorrow!

Anyway, I called my mom (who do you think the teacher complains to?) to tell her to pray hard that I didn't catch anything. I have big plans this weekend. There is a BBQ cook-off, cowboys, alcohol, cowboys...sorry. Where was I? Oh yeah, my head hurts. Well, she told me to go and buy this Zicam medicine. Supposedly, it nips the cold in the butt. I thought it was a nose spray kind of thing, but it actually comes in many forms....nose spray, chewable tablets, soft chews, rapid melt thingies...you get my point. It also comes in a variety of flavors. I chose the soft chews in strawberry.

After reading the directions (no orange juice for me tonight...apparently the acid can upset the stomach) I took one. It was like a starburst...less sweet and more chalky. Anyway, I hope that this cures whatever is ailing me. Or at least anything that might be thinking of ailing me.

I Do It Because

As I mentioned in the previous post, my blog has been sadly lacking these last few weeks. I claim that life is simply too busy for me to be posting at this time, but I think that is a fib I tell myself or more importantly that I tell the few people that regularly make a point to stop by here.

I began blogging because it seemed to be the "in" thing to do. And then I quickly warmed to the idea of using my blog as a journal of my every day life. Believe it or not, I do occassionally go back and re-read old posts. I've been at this blogging thing for a little over a year and a half. I can see how my writing has changed. I can see how I've changed. And most of the time that is a good thing.

And then there are days...even weeks...like these last ones that I wish I could truly use my blog for journaling all the inside thoughts. I can't. Too many of my real world friends and family stop by and take a peek. Don't get me wrong, I love that in a time where I'm so far away from them we can stay caught up and connected. There are just some things I wish I could put out there and not be judged because of.

I most enjoy blogging because you make connections with people. The majority of the time these are people that will never "know" you, but they build relationships and trust with you through the writing. They are an unbiased board off which to bounce ideas and get opinions. I like that.

And sometimes, I wish that my blog was completely anonymous. I wish I could write freely about the envy I feel for a friend who seems to have everything I want, about the fear I feel that I'm turning into someone I love but that I don't want to be like, that guy that just won't leave my head or heart alone, the dreams of going and doing something completely unlike me, or how alone I sometimes feel...even when I'm surrounded by people who care about me.

I could do it, but I'm chicken. I don't want to disappoint anyone. I don't want anyone to look at me with pity or to feel that they have to "fix" me. And lately, the things I need to blog about are the ones that I can't blog about. So, I'm keeping to myself for a while. I'm usually impulsive and act without completing the thought process, but for now I'm going to just ponder these thoughts on my own.

I know that answers and peace will come and that this time they have to come from within me.

Poor Blog

My poor blog! If you ran your finger across it big dust bunnies would stick to your finger.

Unfortunately, this isn't the night to dust if off.

I just felt like I should say something...so here it is.

Why are blonde jokes always about women? Are blonde men NOT as dumb as blonde women...not that I'm saying blonde women are dumb. But, still...I'm curious.

Far from profound but at least a date from this week.

What A Chore

For those of you who I haven't called to tell...last week someone stole my trash can. Yeah...you read that right. Someone STOLE (as in took without asking or returning) my TRASH CAN (that thing you put trash in).

In defense of the thief, I had left my trash can by the side of the road for a few days. What? We only have trash pick up two days a week and if I recall correctly that was a very busy week for me. Anyway, by the time I came home those nights it was dark and I didn't want to have to walk up the road in the dark to retrive my trash can. So, there set my trash can for at the most three days. I don't know...maybe that said to someone that it was up for grabs. Whatever the reason apparently someone needed it more than me.

And that brought me to my next problem...I had to go and buy a new trash can. I'm not really a trashy person, but frankly it was getting ripe under the sink and needed to be taken outside. My friend went with me to Wal-Mart and pushed the basket while I wheeled a monster of a trash can around. My old one (the stolen one) wasn't that big. It would hold one...possibly two depending on what was in the bag so I upgraded. It's huge. And green. (I'm just trying to help that mental picture out there!) Thankfully, it did fit in my car trunk and it's currently residing in the front yard.

Now, for the meat of this post. My least favorite chore is taking out the trash. Not that I injoy any of them, but trash is the worst. Believe it or not, but I only have about two years worth of trash hauling experience. While I was growing up my dad always took out the trash. I really believe that trash is an inheriantly male chore (no offense all you single gals out there...I'm a single gal too). I mean...think about it. Doesn't take out the trash dominate most young boys chore list? Don't most men (of the married variety) do the trash duty? Isn't there something manly in hauling a white plastic bag of trash to a smelly dumpster? Okay...maybe manly was pushing it, but my point is that trash seems to be a guy thing. And I hate that it is my thing now.

The gathering it up around the house isn't that bad and walking it outside to the trash can right off the porch isn't that bad. What I hate is wheeling that huge thing down to the road. I'm not sure how far it is from my porch to the edge of the road, but it's further than your average driveway. And, seriously, sometimes the trash smells. Are you getting the picture about why this is my least favorite chore?

Anyway, at least my new mean green trash can is bigger so the trips are fewer nowadays. And can you guess what chore I'm trying to put off by writing this post? I guess it's a lame dream to think the trash will sprout legs and walk itself down to the road, huh?

Garden Party Shoes

Today I wore my garden party shoes.

I really love those shoes. They are so totally unlike me. Normally, I wear sensible shoes. I have my fair share of stylish shoes, but a lot are sensible and comfortable. But these shoes are different. I bought them on a spur of the moment shopping trip. They are high heeled wedges...a yummy chocolate color...and the best part...the sexy part...is that they have ribbon straps that wrap around my ankles. My toes are covered and my heel, but otherwise these shoes leave my foot in the open.

I feel so free with those shoes on. I know that sounds crazy, but I feel confident in those shoes. They make me taller and look good on my feet. I always get compliments on them (three today!) so they are a confidence booster. Men might not understand, but a woman can certainly relate to that pair of shoes. We've all got them.

So, I wore them today...my garden party shoes. They aren't exactly classroom friendly and I've got the blister to prove it, but boy did I have a great day today. And while I'm not saying it was completely due to my shoes...they didn't hurt!

Thursdays Just Became My New Favorite Day

Okay...not really. Saturdays are still my all time favorite day of the week, but Thursdays are certainly moving up in the ranks.

Normally, I wake up dreading work on Thursdays. See, Thursday is my duty day at school. Duty day includes lunch duty (where I walk around the cafeteria for 35 minutes catering to a bunch of mannerless munchkins...and by catering I mean they can't get up so I have to get things for them...things like napkins, silverware, and ketchup...always the ketchup) and pick up duty (where I take 50 odd kids down the hallway to the foyer to wait in the pick up line...where I try to keep them quiet until their name is called to leave).

I hate lunch duty. In my offense, everyone hates lunch duty. And I wasn't all that fond of pick up duty, but in the last two weeks...well pick up duty has taken on a whole new twist.

I get neck rubs!

Last week, I looked over at first grade and noticed that teacher was getting a neck rub and I smiled at her. One of my little darlings (or masseuse in training as I call them!)asked if she could rub my neck. I said sure and thus it began...the long line of kiddos that wanted to rub my neck. So, I started giving them numbers. She's first and then you and you can be after her...you get the point. The first few were okay but the last was...well, an experience.

He came up to me and put his hands around my neck. Think strangle hold! Then he squeezed. I'm sure my eyes bugged out because I had to literally remove his hands and tell him not to do that. Some of the girls laughed and he dutifully put his hands on my shoulders. Then the grunting started. The touch was light, but you'd think he was trying to move a 100 pound boulder or something as much grunting as he was doing. He kept telling me that he might have to stop because his fingers might hurt. I told him that he didn't have to do it and he could sit down if he wanted. Grunt...groan....nope, Ms. Stewart I want grunt to....

I finally couldn't take any more and put the little doll out of his misery. The first grade teacher (who had him in class last year) just laughed and said she had endured that "rub" a time or two.

Well, today was again duty day. And again, more neck rubs. Some of these kids have talent! I still hate lunch duty, but these weekly neck rubs are quickly becoming the highlight of my day!

There just might be hope for Thursdays after all.

Jelly Bean

You Are a Green Apple Jelly Bean

Of all the flavors, you're the most complex and the most real. A little sweet, a little sour, and totally tangy. People can't describe you, but they love you!

What Flavor Jelly Bean Are You?

I'm Such A Scraplifter

One of my resolutions this year was to scrapbook something every month. I was starting to think that this would be the first resolution to be broken! But, after getting a little inspiration from Valerie (I loved the stacking pictures!) I decided that now was as good a time as any to get something done.

Now, this could perhaps be considered cheating, but I found a layout that had been started a while ago, and just needed the pictures put down and the journaling written. These are some pictures from my New York City trip and the Staten Island/Statue of Liberty experience. It felt good to be looking at photos and scrapbook elements. I love the final look of this layout!

These pictures really don't do justice to it, but I'm having a little trouble getting my camera to focus and figuring out how to get the lighting right. Everything is so dark. Anyway, at least it'll look good in the album.

Thanks for the inspiration Valerie! I'm the one in the purple cap...I don't know if you can see me since the pictures turned out dark. The other chick is one of my best buds, Deniece.

A Little Bit Nasty, A Little Bit Nice

I'm in a love...often hate relationship with Wal-Mart. Yeah...today was my weekly venture out to get a few necessities. Who says ice cream isn't a necessity...stop judging me! Anyway, does anyone else feel that the customer service during check out has gone down the toilet? Ugh...I always dread checking out there. The last few times, the experience has left me seething. Last time, for instance, the lady talked non-stop about her boyfriend and how he's a lazy S.O.B. because he wouldn't take her mom to the eye doctor. I must have had a look that said...I care. I've tried to work on that. So, while she's rambling on about her boyfriend she rings up my shampoo three times! I had to go and stand in another line at customer service to get my money back! Oh, and the rub...she didn't put the bags in the basket.

Today, the lady didn't speak to me at all, but she did throw two cans of soup in on top of my grapes. When she spun the rack around and I reached in to put the soup into another sack, she huffed because I was stopping the rack from turning. Oh, and she didn't put the bags in the basket either. What the heck is up with that? Isn't it part of the job that you ring stuff up, put it in a sack, and then put that sack in the basket?

So, I hate the customer service but I love being able to get everything I could possibly need in one stop. What's a girl to do...besides rant in her blog?

On an up note, the ice finally melted! I went to school Thursday morning with all the trees in my front yard practically bent in half. When I came home...they were all standing up tall again! It's nice to be able to get off my porch on my feet rather than my bottom. Don't ask...

Also, while at the-place-that-shall-not-be-mentioned I found some great cards! Mostly Valentine's Day and a birthday one for my mom. I love cards and I'm positive that those who will be getting these cards will enjoy them too. And I had a little mailbox love myself today...thanks Mama! :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

Brrr....Baby It's Frozen

I ventured out on the porch again (and this time more bundled up!) to snap a few more pictures. There is a lot more ice today. Check out how much more ice is on the deck chair than yesterday. Go ahead...scroll back down. I'll wait.

And that tree by the edge of my house...solid ice. That tree in front of my car used to stand up straight. Now it leans...really low to the ground. I think I'm going to venture out later this afternoon and see if I can unfreeze my car. Since I think this is my last bad weather day off from school, I figure I might as well and make sure my car will start for tomorrow.

Well, I'm off to find a productive way to occupy my time. Have a warm day everyone!

An Ice Day

***Update: More sleet and freezing temps so tomorrow is another free day from school. Usually I'm all over getting a mini vacation, but frankly I'm bored at home. Someone mentioned today that she'd noticed I'd been all over the internet, to which I replied that sort of creeped me out. How do people track your internet moves? Anyway, since I'm going to be at home again tomorrow those of you with trackers and eyes everywhere...I'll be out wandering. I can only watch so much tv. Gasp...I know! That came out of my mouth! Any suggestions on how best to fill my time?

It's an Ice Day!!!

You know how most schools get out for a snow day? Well, it is not snow, but it is as close as I'll probably get...it's ice! And we're off.

I stepped out this morning (seriously under-dressed for the occasion...note to self...pajamas and thin socks are not enough when braving temps below freezing) and snapped a few pictures. Apparently, this is not normal weather for this part of Texas so I wanted to capture it. And of course, I'm already seeing scrapbook pages in my head.

So, enjoy my porch...all covered in ice!

Annette Made Me Do It

Because Annette is my friend and I'm fresh out of stuff to blog about tonight.....

I think the deal is that you're supposed to fill this out about me. Apparently it's a lot of fun. We'll see. Some of you do know me well enough to answer this question, some of you know me well enough to take this and make me cringe with your answers, and some of you will simply stop reading here.

I made Annette promise to do this since I did it for her. Anyone else that wants to take stab at this (no pressure...except you Annette...you'd better do this thing!) feel free to take up comment space!

My name:
Summarize me in three words:
Where did we meet:
Take a stab at my middle name:
How long have you known me:
When is the last time that we saw each other:
Do I drink:
Do I smoke:
Am I happy:
Am I a good person:
What was your first impression of upon meeting me/seeing me:
What's one of my favorite things to do:
Am I funny:
How do you make me smile:
What's my favorite type of music:
Have you ever seen me cry:
Can I sing?:
What is the best feature about me:
Am I shy or outgoing:
Am I a rebel or do I follow the rules:
Do I have any special talents:
Would you call me preppy, average, sporty, punk, hippie, glam, nerdy, snobby, or something else (what):
Am I hot? Am I not?
Have I seen you naked?:
Have you ever hugged me:
Kissed me?:
What is my favorite food:
Have you ever had a crush on me:
Am I dating anyone:
If there was one good nickname for me, what would it be:
What's your favorite memory of me:
What is my worst habit:
Have you ever had a dream about me? If so, what?:
If you and I were stranded on a desert island, what is the one thing I would bring?
Are we friends:
Do I believe in God ?
Am I family oriented?
Who is my best friend?
Will you repost this so I can do it?

On My Honor, I Will Try...

to stay away from my freezer!

Yeah, that sounds like a pretty strange thing to make a pledge to do, but you aren't aware of what is lurking in there amid my frozen waffles and ice cubes. It's ice cream. Not just any ice cream, but Dreyers Slow Churned ice cream. Not just Dreyers, but Samoas flavored ice cream. Oh my gosh...

Okay, this is a little side story....like extra...for free! Anyhow, when I was growing up I was in Girl Scouts for many years. I loved it! I started in second grade and continued all the way through middle school. And not to brag or anything, but I was the number one cookie seller in my troop. So, I know my girl scout cookies forward and backwards. I'd never heard of a Samoa before. We called them Caramel Delights. But, no matter what you call them...they are heaven in a box. Coconut, caramel, chocolate, cookie...need I say more. Except maybe "Hey, watch the drool. It's not good for keyboards." Some of my best memories of my childhood are tied up in Girl Scouts. I'm even still in touch and good friends with two girls that were also in my troop.

Back to this ice cream though...I couldn't believe they had Caramel Delight (excuse me, Samoas...I'll never get used to that) ice cream. I couldn't resist buying. Talk about impulse buying. My dedication to smallerizing my hips went by the way of VHS tapes. Wait...that didn't sound right...isn't it VHS tapes?

Ever since I brought the temptation loaded quart of ice cream home, it's been calling my name. I had a bowl the night I brought it home and much to my delight (and my hips' demise) there are crunched up pieces of cookies in there. I stopped just short of licking my bowl clean. I do have a little dignity left. Anyway, ever since then, I've only eaten it one spoonful at a time. I stop by each night and get a spoonful to enjoy. And for those of you only focusing on my double dipping approach...it's my quart so there.

I think I'm enjoying it more because it brings back memories for me. It's funny how food can do that to you. So, while I'm enjoying the memories a lot, I'm trying to ration the ice cream!

But it sure is hard!

Hi...This Is Steffany...Blah Blah Blah

A few months ago while studying my phone bill, I came to the conclusion that it would be cheaper to get an answering machine rather than keep paying for the "extras" like caller ID and call waiting.

At first, it all sounded like a great deal. But then in reality, I discovered that never once did I look at the phone, see who was calling, and then ignore the call. Call me curious...but I want to know who is calling me from that weird number. Nine out of ten times I end up having to reject some poor telemarketer person, but what if it's an emergency call or something? Also, in all of the six months I've lived here I haven't had two calls at the same time. So...caller ID...pointless. Call waiting...even pointless-er.

So, I bought an answering machine and I got it set up tonight. Is it just me or is setting up an answering machine more time consuming than one would originally think? It might just be me, but for my sake let's pretend that it's all of us!

Well, I read my directions, turned the tv down, and hit the record button.

"Hello, this is your name here...crap...that's where I'm supposed to say my name...oh dang this thing is recording."

Feeling only slightly silly, I found the erase button and began again.

"Hi, this is Steffany. Ifyou'llleaveyournameandnumberI'llcallyouback..." Yeah. It sounded that fast on the machine. Scratch.

"Hi, this is Steffany. I'm not available for your call so please leave your call number...&*%^"

By this point, I'm no longer so interested in this stupid answering machine. Whose idea was this again? Finally, I decided to grab a pen and paper and write out what I'd say before I hit the record button. I thought about being witty. I thought about trying to smile and see if I could hear it in my voice. I debated between "Hi, this is Steffany..." and "You've reached 936..." I thought about how pathetic this was and hit the button.

"Hi, this is Steffany. I can't take your call right now so please leave your name, number, and a brief message and I'll get back to you. Thanks."

So, if you've got my number give me a call. See what you think.

Behind The Times

A few people had asked to see my Christmas tree. I encountered several hurdles to getting this posted, but thankfully I've figured it out and here they are! Enjoy (those two of you who asked to see it)!

And The Quote Goes To...

At first, I was really leery updating to the new beta thingy. I'm not really great with technology. Actually I'm really bad at it, but I was pleasantly surprised at how easy this new beta blogger thing was to use. On the down side, a lot of people have told me that they can't leave comments. I'm stumped as to what is the cause, but I do appreciate the effort of trying to comment. Like that goofy little picture says...they make me happy!

Well, I put it to use tonight and added a new spot on my side bar. I thought about calling it Quote of the Day, but even I know when I'm being overly ambitious! So, I settled on once a week.

I love quotes! I love how one sentence or sometimes even one word makes its way down through history. I wonder if the speaker even knew what kind of power his or her words would hold. I think it's amazing how a statement can have so many meanings for so many people. I wouldn't consider myself a writer or someone that makes profound statements, but I have to admit to wishing that somewhere down the line my name would be attached to a quote that truly speaks to someone.

Until that day, I like this new addition to my blog. I like sharing a little quote that I've taken and found a way to apply to my life. And if you've got a favorite quote please share!

Hello 2007!

Happy New Year!

Ah, the start of a new year. A clean slate. A brand new calendar just itching to be filled up with all sorts of activities and adventures. I can't wait!

Today is the day for making these so called resolutions. I usually suck at keeping any resolutions that I make, so this year I thought I'd do something a little different. Perhaps my resolutions are too restricting in the fact that if I mess up well then it's all over. Or maybe they are too deep. I mean...am I really going to change the world or leave a lasting mark in one year? So, while I'm resolving to battle those pesky pounds on my hips, not grumble when I'm exercising (at least not as much), and work on leaving that mark I'm going to make some "fluff" resolutions too.

1. Scrapbook more! I think I've completed three things since I moved. That was six months ago people...I love to scrapbook. I love staring at a blank 12X12 and knowing that something creatively great is going to be the result. Plus, I've made quite a few friendships through scrapbooking. Look out paper, trimmer, and herma fix...here I come!

2. Make my bed every day...every other day...okay fine...at least twice a week. My mom used to stressed the importance of making one's bed. I think my favorite example was what if you lived in an efficiency and your bed was in the living room. A made bed can bring a calming sense of organization...or at least that is what I tell myself. I never know who might pop in so I'll keep my sheets untangled and my pajamas folded under the pillows.

3. Send more mail happiness. I love sending snail mail. I get this happy for no reason feeling when I get a card or piece of mail that isn't some sort of bill or junk. Besides, who wouldn't enjoy getting a little something that says someone was thinking of you and wanted you to know it? Anyway, I used to do it all the time. Greeting cards are kind of a weakness of mine. But, lately I've been too busy to sign my name to a card. So, cards check. Stamps check. Address book check.

4. Organize...everything....everywhere. I'm starting small with my scrapbooking room. Well, come to think of it that might actually be a big one. Anyway, life has to be simpler when things are where they should be....right? I like to think I'm organized but yeah...not so much. So, baby steps.

5. Take more time for just me. I have a pretty busy social calendar and I can find myself stretched to my limits. I've never wanted to be a person who stayed home every night watching tv and being a hermit, but when your energy tank is running on empty more than full...well staying at home and vegging in front of the tv doesn't sound all that bad. I'll find my TV Guide and the remote and I'll be all set.

6. Read. Trashy romance novels are my weakness and recently my buying habits are still up there, but the reading is going down. I have two shelves of books just waiting to be read. I start a book and then I put it down because I need to grade papers or I need to do laundry. Well, I'm picking up those books and I'm going to read at least two books a month. Maybe more...but no less!

7. Cook...something...every week. I like to cook. I like to watch those cooking shows and I always think "I could do that!" Well, maybe I can't always do that, but I've got a few cookbooks and cooking magazines and a willing spirit. I'm going to try a new recipe every week. Someone told me that practice makes perfect...even in cooking. I hope the smoke alarms don't disturb my neighbors!

So, there you go. My list of year long goals. Sure, they aren't mind stretching or peace creating things, but I think they'll all make me a more well rounded person. And that's what resolutions are all about right? It's not just about denying yourself something or forcing yourself to do something. It's about making you a better individual. And I'm all for that!

Merry Christmas!!!

Yes, I know it's the day after Christmas, but better late than never!

So, Merry Christmas!!

My Christmas was wonderful. Christmas Eve my parents and I did the gift exchange (sometimes it so pays to be an only child!) and I probably raked in more than I deserved. I finally (hopefully!) gave my dad a gift that he found interesting and will actually use. My mom was pleasantly delighted with this yarntainer thing I got her. All in all...the gifts were great and everyone was happy.

We also took some family Christmas pictures that night. My mom's digital camera has a self-timer so after four or seven takes we finally ended up with a family picture that makes everyone happy.

The best part of Christmas is family. Christmas is my favorite holiday (barely squeezing past my birthday...though technically that isn't a holiday) for a lot of reasons, but family is right up there at the top. Now that I'm living so far away from home, I really enjoy and appreciate the time I get to spend with my parents. It was great to sit in front of our beautiful Christmas tree and watch each other open presents and be together.

Christmas morning brought stockings (and boy was I a good girl this year...thanks Santa!) for mine was loaded. I raked in some really cool stocking stuffers! My aunt was able to come over for Christmas Day so again...a great time spent with family. Lifetime had an all day Christmas movie marathon going so we got sucked into that. Has anyone else survived the movie Noel? It has some big name stars...Susan Sarandon, Robin Williams, Penelope Cruz. Anyway, did anyone else get that movie? Talk about convoluted and strange! We kept waiting for the end to make everything clear and well...the ending (and frankly the whole movie) sucked. Thankfully, the movie that came on after it was pretty good.

Today was spent shopping. I found a few good deals and some things that I just couldn't live without. Walmart the day after Christmas isn't how anyone should have to spend their day. It was a mad house in there. Of course, perhaps the fact that I willing went there says something about me. I'm not sure, but it's kind of late at night for too deep of a look into my shopping habits.

Tomorrow, we're leaving to head to my grandparents and do this all over again with all the extended family. I can't wait!

To everyone that wanders by...Merry Christmas (a little late) and Happy New Year's (a little early)!

Wrapping Paper Snob

Hours left till Christmas: Less than 12 (better get going if you're a last minute shopper!)
Presents that still need to be wrapped: 4

Christmas isn't about the presents, but admit it...who doesn't enjoy a beautifully wrapped gift under the tree with her name on it? There is just something about gifts under the tree that have been wrapped, ribboned, and bowed with love just for you! And in that is my confession...I'm a wrapping paper snob.

Yes, me. I'm of the opinion that gifts should look pretty. I like for the paper to all match or be of the same color or design variety. I enjoy ribbons and bows. And don't forget the to/from label. These are all important elements to a beautifully wrapped gift.

Now, before people start turning the cold shoulder I should point out that just because I like pretty wrapping doesn't mean that I don't understand that it's the thought that counts. And besides...if you're giving me a present I'm going to like it no matter what. I just happen to like having an attractive present to look at.

I remember the days when I got to help my mom wrap my dad's presents and vise versa. At that point the finer points of folding and taping were beyond me. I had this squish and bend technique that looked like some blind and handless person did the wrapping. Oh...and a love of tape. That unfortunately hasn't changed. Without careful attention I could easily make a present impossible to get into without some sort of cutting device. Anyway, somewhere along the way (thanks to my mom no doubt) I learned how to fold the paper to have a smooth edge. I perfected the folding of the corners for that wrapped up tight look on the ends. I learned to tie the perfect bow and how to get my ribbon to curl just so.

It wasn't until I started buying my own wrapping paper did I start coordinating the papers. Last year I had a blue, green, silver, snowflake thing going on. All my paper matched and worked together beautifully. The to/from labels were glittery snowflake cutouts and all the ribbons and bows matched the color theme. I was very proud of those gifts. I enjoyed the wrapping and perfecting and I think it showed. This year...I went for a more country look. I had debated about brown paper and raffia decorations, but there were just so many beautiful papers to choose from!

I'm sitting in the family room looking at our tree this year. My gifts are all wrapped in boxes with straight edges with bows and ribbons. My parents have a more eclectic mix going on. And while I still like the idea of all the presents having the same feel and look...this hodge podge of wrapping is quite beautiful. Maybe there is hope for this wrapping snob after all...lol.

So, what drives a person to this kind of obsessive snobbery? Frankly, I don't know. I find wrapping a little therapeutic. I used to ask to wrap all the family gifts and my mom gladly turned the job over to me. I had the whole present section of the tree wrapped up tight and shiny with bows and curling ribbons. As a matter of fact, those four gifts that still need wrapping...their presents that they saved for me to wrap. Maybe I need some therapy for this condition, but for now I enjoy it.

So, to all you out there...happy wrappings!

Kan U Spel?

Whew...it's the holiday!!!! The grades are in, the kids are gone, and it's two weeks of rest and relaxation for me. Today was the Christmas party and it went really well. Crazy...but really good. I got a lot of sweet gifts from my kids. My personal favorite...a $20 gift certificate to my favorite nail salon! Anyway, I'm ready for the break for a lot of reasons and I fully intend to enjoy myself!

Last week our kids had to take the spelling bee pre-test to see if they qualified for the spelling bee that will take place in February. I am a terrible speller! I was a kid that memorized for the test, but I never learned how to spell. So, now when I'm teaching spelling I pay extra attention. Anyway, checking the pre-tests was a jolly good time. These kiddos invented spellings were pretty terrible! And the worst part...I could relate!

Just for kicks I'm going to post the kids' spellings and then tomorrow I'll post the actual word. See how many you can get!

1. garwrog.....gorodg
2. mamith......manith
3. caffitirea......cathertia
4. tamaha......tomuhok
5. harmanicka......hmoncker
6. nockleyis......nogleeass
7. mankeyore......menuqor
8. kampan......campain
9. adecet......edicket
10. morryachey......maryochy

The Curse Of The White Elephant

Number of Christmas cards received: 7
Number of gifts from the kids: 1
Shopping days left: 8

The faculty Christmas party was last night. It wasn't mandatory that we go, but since it was my first Christmas party with HISD and I'm always up for a party I went. We had to come hungry (yes, that was written on the invite) and bring a white elephant gift to exchange.

Well, a few of the girls decided that the Christmas party would be even better if we went to a happy hour before going to the party. I know how this sounds. It wasn't that bad. No one showed up drunk but I do think a pleasant buzz was felt by a few. No names to protect the intoxicated!

The Christmas party was originally supposed to be held at this gorgeous lake house, but apparently a lot of people RSVPed so they changed our location to the La Quinta Inn banquet room. Now, I know you may be asking just what kind of fun a group of educators can have at a motel...well let me tell you...the Christmasy kind of fun.

As promised, the dinner was good. We had steak, potatoes, green beans, salad, rolls, and some sort of cobbler crisp thing. We played a few party games. I was nominated as the person at my table with the most Christmas spirit, so I had to go up and stand in a line. Each person was supposed to sing a few lines from a Christmas carol. No carol could be repeated. I did great the first few rounds (Santa Baby, O Christmas Tree, and Go Tell It On The Mountain) but then I went blank. I can't believe I got up and sang in front of my co-workers. At least it wasn't on the table!

The white elephant Christmas gift exchange was next on the agenda. I found something from around my house to give. It was this black monstrosity of a candle holder thing-a-ma-bob. My mom had gotten it at some point and it didn't match her decor so off it was handed. Anyway, I packed it up, wrapped it, and stuck a pretty bow on it. It was a huge box so I thought that might draw people in. Apparently big gifts are avoided at these elephant things. Well, I was second in line for the drawing. Second in line is a horrible place to be! My first gift was this neat photo box thing. I was happy with that. About six people later it was stolen. My next pick wasn't so good. I got these two red and white heart glass ornaments. They are UGLY. Actually UGLY doesn't really do them justice. They are pretty darn terrible. But I suppose nothing says Merry Christmas like some Valentine's Day hearts! At least I'm set for next year's gift.

Anyway, today is my baking day. Yep, you read that right. Even though I normally set off the smoke detector and not everything that comes out of my oven looks good, I'm making some banana nut bread to give as gifts. Don't you wish you were on my Christmas list!? I bought some really pretty material and I'm going to do a little cloth wrap with ribbon. It'll look pretty on the outside at least. I also have a few cheese balls to make. That is one thing that I do make well...it's always a hit. And of course, there is another party tonight.

Inside the house it looks and feels like Christmas. I plugged in my tree (pictures coming very soon!), wrapping paper and gifts are scattered about, and I'm doing holiday baking. Outside the house it looks and feels like summer. It's bright, sunny, and a balmy 77 degrees out today. Despite that I'm excited....Christmas is almost here!!!

Conversation Piece

I finally got around to setting up and playing with my digital camera software. It's been a rough go of it...I'm NOT technically savvy so this was torture. I'm sure there is some easy way to get my pictures to the right places and make sure that they are cropped and edited to my liking, but as of yet I've not discovered this way.

This is my conversation piece. It sits in the far corner of my living room on the hope chest next to the entertainment center. My mom and I came up with the idea while we were unpacking things and I was getting settled into my new home. I love it and I think it's beautiful!

The suitcase belonged to my great grandmother (who passed away this year). It's hard sided and the address tag still bares the address of a long ago place. The suitcase reminds me of my love for travel and adventure.

The picture inside is a cross-stitched saying that my mom did for me a few years ago. It also has suitcases on it and says "Life is a journey." I put it in the suitcase because life for me is always a journey and an adventure.

The mask is something I fell in love with in New Orleans. This picture does it NO justice. It's baby pink, the feathers are soft to the touch, and the mask is made completely of sequins. It's beautiful. I was in New Orleans several years ago on a holiday trip with a friend. I look at that mask and I can still feel the nip in the air, the mighty Mississippi flowing along, the hustle of Jackson Square, hear the Christmas carols coming from the cathedral, taste the delicious pasteries and coffee. I love that feeling.

The gloves and handkerchiefs are also from my great grandmother. I look at them and think of times long ago when ladies wore gloves and hats to Sunday service and added a touch of style to a plain handkerchief with embroidery. They've been on a long journey themselves.

It sits in the corner reminding me of where I come from, where I've been, and all the dreams and places I still have to go.

A B Cs Of Me

It's a rainy Sunday here and I'm kind of in a lazy mood so I thought I'd take a lazy way out of posting. Here is some meaningless information about me! Happy reading :)


A - Available or single: Single at the moment. Or as one of my little second grade darlings said a few weeks back, "Ms. Stewart is singular!"

B - Best Friend: This is a hard question...I have tons of friends, but I'm not sure I could pin point just one to claim as a "best friend". I have so many friends that meet so many needs so I'm just saying all my friends are the best!

C - Cake or Pie: Cake...Italian cream cake...extra nuts

D - Drink of choice: non-alcoholic - Cream Soda, alcoholic - Smirnoff Green Apple

E- Essential Item(s) you use everyday: Clean&Clear foaming face wash, Mary Kay concealer, computer

F - Favorite color: Pink

G - Gummy Bears or worms: worms, the Troll kind that are sour. I like the way it makes my lips pucker.

H - Hometown: Abilene

I - Indulgence: trashy romance novels

J-January or February: I'll go with February...a lot of family birthdays that month

K - Kids: not at the moment. Perhaps in the future...

L - Life is Incomplete Without? family and friends

M - Marriage Date: I don't have one

N- Number of Siblings: I'm an only child...isn't it obvious!

O - Oranges or Apples: Mandarin oranges and Granny Smith apples

P - Phobias or Fears: I'm afraid of getting left. I have an unusual phobia of vomit which thanks to my darling second graders I'm recovering from rather quickly.

Q - Fave Quote: "Don't mistake breathing for living."

R- Reason to Smile: Mrs. Baird's trucks, Jake, scrapbook stores

S - Season: Winter...I love snow (though I don't live where it happens too often), wool sweaters, matching scarves, hats, and gloves, Christmas

T - TV Show: I watch too much TV as it is so it's hard to narrow it down to just one. How about my top three? 1. The West Wing 2. Grey's Anatomy 3. Project Runway (Tim Gunn reminds me of someone and well...they are both hot.)

U - Unknown Fact about Me: I stole a hot glue gun glue stick from Michael's when I was like 7 and my dad made me take it back and apologize. I've never stolen anything since. Kind of makes me wonder why I wanted a glue stick?!

V - Vegetable You Don't Like: Brussel sprouts...they stink!

W - Worst Habit: Not thinking before I speak.

X - Xrays: ankle, shoulder, teeth

Y- Your Fave Food: croissant rolls (Not the kind that come in the can, but the kind that come from the bakery and are layers thick!)

Z - Zodiac Sign: Libra

Amanda

Amanda,

Congrats, girl! I'm so proud of you and everything you've accomplished. Whenever the job comes and from wherever the job comes from you'll be the best teacher. I know that you're going to impact lives...and I'll wager that it won't just be students either. You're going to do big things...I just know it!

Seriously....love you!

Steff

Licking And Sealing...Sending

I'm up to my tongue in Christmas cards! I've spent the better part of tonight writing, licking, sealing, and thank goodness for self-adhesive stamps...stamping my Christmas cards.

I love snail mail anyway, but I really love to send out Christmas cards. Is there anyone who doesn't enjoy a little holiday joy in the form of a Christmas card?

It's funny because when I first started sending my own Christmas cards to people I only had about five to ten people. Easy enough...well apparently the older you get the more people you know.

Several days ago I set down and made out the list of everyone that deserved a Christmas card. A few snuck on that as I was getting writer's cramp tonight wondered how they made the short list...lol. Oh you know those people...the ones that never call you, never write you, probably will look at your name and have to think before it dawns on them who you are...those people. Thankfully, I've only found two so far. Still...it's Christmas and a card is the least I can do for someone who at some point meant enough to be put in my address book.

My living room looks like a card factory. I have a tv tray for the cards (seven different types to be exact) and then the aforementioned address book and my stamps. Last year the holiday stamps were ugly. Thankfully, this year they are super cute snowflakes! Anyway, I have the standard line down and then I add my own personal touch.

Don't get me wrong...I enjoy it, but goodness...night two and still about 15 cards to write and envelopes to address.

Shallow perhaps but...I hope I get a lot of Christmas cards this year.

Seriously...

Okay, seriously....

I hate laundry. I have no idea how it piles up so fast.

Seriously...I think my clothes are multiplying while I'm at school. How can I be out of undies and socks...again?

I'm debating about washing or going to Wal-Mart for a new pack.

Seriously...

Bittersweet

My first very own Christmas tree is up!

I had planned to work on it tomorrow afternoon, but the mood struck me tonight. And conveniently the Christmas boxes were still sitting in my living room so tonight it was.

I have to admit that I was fully expecting to be full of all these great holiday feelings when in reality I was torn between enjoying the Christmas spirit and having a serious case of homesickness. And that is funny because this is my home.

Putting up the tree was a big production when I lived at home. My mom sat in her recliner and directed my dad and me as we strung just shy of a million lights on our tree. She was of the opinion that the more lights the prettier the tree. I only have two strands on my tree and I guess I can kind of understand what she's talking about...it looks a little sparse. Mostly on the bottom, because I was doing a great wrapping job on the top. Oh well...I think it adds personality!

Anyway, she was the director. At the time it usually seemed almost too much trouble to bother with. My dad would ask her if she'd want to trade places...she never did. Well, by the time the lights were on, my dad was so full of holiday spirit that he would head outside. Putting the ornaments on the tree belonged to my mom and me. She'd unwrap them and I'd hang them.

We'd share funny stories about ornaments and she'd tell me the same stories that she's always told me about why such and such an ornament was special. I always liked that. After much work and a little more grumbling our tree was up and it was always beautiful.

Tonight I got a little sad. There was no grumbling about the lights. I unwrapped my ornaments without sharing laughs and stories. Oh, I remember the stories...word for word. I had to step back and judge my own handiwork. I missed my parents. I missed the grumbling about the lights.

Anyway, my tree is up and I think it's very pretty. Now it just needs some presents and my stocking and I'll be set!

Naughty or Nice

It's that time of year!!!! You know...when all your niceness has to balance out your naughtiness.

I love it. Yesterday, I was coming home from a long day in the school yard and I actually managed to hear Christmas carols (though really...is Jeff Foxworthy's Redneck Christmas actually considered a carol?) all the way home. There was a little nip in the air. I swear...I smelled Christmas. (I smell a lot of stuff...snow, rain, Christmas...just saying I've got a good sniffer.)

I haven't put up the tree yet (you wouldn't believe all the laundry that accumulates on a 10 day trip away from home!) because I'm still putting everything back in it's place. Anyway, it's on the list for Saturday. I've set out my ornaments all over the coffee table...I'm so ready!

Anyway, to help everyone get in the mood I'm posting a little holiday questionnaire that I stole from my friend D. She never reads this blog (a mark in the naughty column for her!) so I didn't figure she'd care.

Just for kicks...if you wander by and are in the holiday spirit choose a number and leave your answer in the comment box!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?Hot Chocolate.... with lots of marshmallows!

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?He wraps those babies!

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?multi-colored lights on the tree

4. Do you hang mistletoe?oh yeah...any reason to kiss

5. When do you put your decorations up?Right after Thanksgiving

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?hmm that's hard. We don't have a 'set' meal for Christmas. I'll say my Mimi's meatballs and mushroom gravy.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Our whole family went to Colorado for Christmas one year. The house was huge (or maybe it was because I was little) but the pipes burst so we stayed at these little cabins. It was the BEST Christmas EVER! I got my mom's Barbies that year. I'll never forget that trip :)

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What do you mean "truth" about Santa???

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? I'd love to, but my mom says NO

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?Old sentimental ornaments that have been collected through the years. I also get a new ornament each year.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? LOVE IT....

12. Can you ice skate? No...weak ankle

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?Yeah...but there are so many. I got a Lite Brite one year...if the picture is anything to go by I LOVED that gift. As crazy as this sounds one of my favorite gifts is the pair of pajamas (be quiet Mike!) that I get every year. I always know it's going to be there. It's comforting!

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being with the people I love!

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?white chocolate covered pretzels!

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?Counting down the days till Christmas on the advent calendar

17. What tops your tree? A star

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? We're talking about presents right? ;) I love to give. Ah who am I kidding...I love to receive just as must as I love to give!

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?Away In A Manger

20. Candy Canes. Yum or Yuck? Yum!

Check It Out

I played with my blog tonight!!!

I finally gave in. I kept seeing that blogger now had some updated thingy, but I was very hesitant to change over. I didn't want to lose all this precious writing material, but surprisingly it was simple.

So, what do you think....do you like the changes?

I don't always like to toot my own horn, but I'm pretty proud of myself :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving dinner was good...great actually.

Family time was good...great actually.

This year our family has had a lot of losses and we might even look back and say that this year was one of the hardest ones we've seen in a while. This Thanksgiving I don't want to lose sight of the fact that while this year has brought it's own share of heartaches this has been a good year...a great year actually.

I don't want to lose sight of the great blessings that came my way this year because I focus on the bad things that came along too. Those things are big, hard, personal, but I can't forget the good things too.

It seems to be a thin line and some days I stray to the negative but most days...I'm grateful for the blessings. That is what Thanksgiving is all about right? Remembering everything and being grateful for it all.

Curl Up And Dye (Updated)

***Update....my hair is still in the same condition it was yesterday when I wrote this post. Unfortunately, my eyebrows and eye lid can't say the same.

I'd like to start this off by saying that I'm not snobby when it comes to my hair. I use Pert, I don't do fancy updos, and I don't spend upwards of $75 on hair cuts. I'm pretty simple. When I was growing up my mom took me to a little salon where I got a haircut for under $10. The same lady has been cutting my hair (and when I started waxing she did that too) for a long time. She was great. Up until I moved away I could walk in and she just knew what I'd want done. Okay that was probably due to the fact that she'd been doing the same cut for years but you get the point. When you get a great cut and good service for under $10 why complain or go some where else?

I mentioned that my beloved hairstylist had moved away, but I decided to give the same salon a shot. I walked in and I should have walked right back out. Anyway, there were only two ladies and a man (a very gay man...I'm not being judgmental but just saying the man was gay). One of the ladies had at one time given my mom a very BAD haircut and style so I wasn't letting her touch my hair. The other lady was someone I'd never seen and was in the process of coloring someone else's hair. When the lady asked if I was ready I told her that I'd changed my mind about the cut, but that I still wanted to get my eyebrows waxed. She said she didn't do waxing, but she'd let the guy know.

Now, I should have grabbed my purse and ran from the salon when he said "Are you Steffany? Well, hi sugar...go jump up there on my couch and I'll be right with you." I didn't...much to my regret. Anyway, I got over there and he comes over and tells me to close my eyes. I explained what I wanted done and he half listened. I'm sure he thought he knew more about what I wanted than I did.

Well, he got started. He dripped wax cream all over my forehead and eyes. Some of the cream even got in my eye...that stuff stings. Then he literally ripped the wax off. I'm used to waxing so it doesn't bother me anymore but it did smart. Then he left to go gab about someone's color job. I was starting to get peeved. He came back and again made a mess with the wax. He explained my questioning of why it was all over my face away with a short (and sing-songy gay tone of voice) "Well honey some times the wax is runny...you never know what you're going to get." Well thank you Forrest.

I was already starting to flinch (this guy was rough!) and I'd had it with the wax all over my face. I put my hand up (probably to grab his wrist but I'll never know) and the next thing I know he's laid a cloth over my eyelid. Now I know I have several male readers so you probably don't know that you'd never wax or rip cloth off your eyelid, but the ladies will understand. He rips the cloth off...along with about an inch long length of skin cells. I had tears in my eyes it hurt so bad. I gasped out that he'd hurt me and he replied with "Well, I'm trying to hurry." I pointed out that I wasn't in a hurry, but he just swabbed the open abrasion with alcohol. I almost came out of the couch/chair thing. At that point I just wanted to leave. My eye was throbbing and frankly I was shocked at the treatment I was receiving.

He handed me a mirror where I discovered that he'd completely made a mess of my face. One eyebrow was crooked, there was still stray hairs he hadn't managed to rip out, and the strings from the cloth were in my hair, eyebrows, and face. I wiped my face and he said that he'd meet me at the front.

I shouldn't have paid, but at this point I was ready to burst into tears so I just paid and left. I didn't say a single word to him and didn't make eye contact. I cried all the way home (well to the grocery store where I had to pull it together but then again when I was back in the car all the way home.) I couldn't understand why my eye hurt so bad until I got home and got a good look. He had left about a one inch strip of burned skin on my eyelid from where he'd waxed. And then I figured the alcohol bath was also causing the stinging.

My mom took one look at my face and told me to put an ice pack on and to hand her the phone. She asked for the name and number of the owner. The guy (the same gay, sing-songy voiced, couldn't wax his own butt guy) hung up on my mom. She's way too nice and said they got disconnected but I think he just hung up. Anyway, they wouldn't give out the number but they did say the owner would be there Friday. My mom is planning on calling then. I love it when she's on my side and kicks butt for me!

Anyway, while my eye isn't stinging it sure is ugly looking this morning. The burn now has a reddish brown tint to it so it's very noticeable. I was aiming to be noticed (with the new hairstyle) but this isn't exactly what I had in mind.

I normally don't put names and places on my blog, but if you're in Abilene please...DO NOT go to Abilene Hairlines. ******

Tomorrow I'm making a huge change...I'm getting my hair cut and highlighted. For all of you out there that probably doesn't sound like such a big thing or even a bloggable thing, but for me my hair is my safety blanket. So this is a big thing.

I've had the same hair style (shoulder length with extremely long layers so it has a gentle flip at the end) for many years. Actually five I think. I grew my bangs out so they are the same shoulder length as the rest of my hair. I like this cut...I really do. It looks great with my face shape and it's easy to maintain. It's also versatile...sleek and shiny when worn down, soft waves when not blown dry, and for days when I'm just not in the mood to mess with it...looks great in a pony tail. My hairstyle works!

So, if this one works...why the change?

Well, did I mention this is the same hairstyle I've had since I started college? I'm beginning to look dated. It needs a little life thrown into it. It took about a month to come to a decision about this and decide what I wanted. I'm getting highlights (probably reddish toned ones...I don't think I'd look good blond but I'm reserving judgment until I meet with my hair stylist) and going back to bangs as they seem to be "in" right now. I think I'm going to stick with the same length, but I'd like to try shorter layers...kinda of that spiky look. Well, a soft spiky look.

Now for the dramatic portion of the story...isn't there always a dramatic portion of the story with me??? I have a friend whose sister I like and she does a great job with hair. She in my new town, but since I was going to be home I thought I'd let the lady who has always cut my hair do the job...considering this is a major thing. I called while I was driving in Friday afternoon to make my appointment. The lady that answers hurriedly tells me that she no longer works there (or even in this town for that matter) but would I like to set up the appointment with someone else. God, no! I hung up, almost in tears about who was going to cut my hair now.

When I got home I started calling around asking about prices and the such. Did you know that when it comes to highlighting there is a cap and foil choice? I didn't either! Anyway, the last place I called I asked if there was someone there who did really great hair...you know...someone with a great customer satisfaction rating. She informs me that they are all good. I didn't leave my name (that could have been considered insulting) but I am planning on walking in there tomorrow afternoon.

Wish me luck!

A Renter's Paradise

I love my little rent house...I really do. Some days I love it more than others, but overall it's great for me.

And then there are days like today...where it's "charms" are simply more than I can handle.

It started this morning, I had set my alarm for 5:25am so I could get up and shower, go through the morning routine, and still get to school early. Well, 5:25 rolls around and I wasn't ready to get up so I made the sleepy decision to switch to the second alarm setting and get up at 6:00am. I rolled over after what seemed like a pretty long snooze to discover it was 6:31am...where I'd set the alarm the last time. Okay...that's not really the house's fault but I'm trying to make a point. Great...just great.

So, I'm stumbling around in my bathroom trying to get the shower part of the morning over with as fast as possible. I wouldn't be surprised if I washed my hair with Zest body wash and used Pert on my body puff. Now this is a key part of the story...the water knobs turn one way and the shower knob turns the other way. Got it? Well, I turned the shower knob the wrong way and the 1970s shower knob fell apart in my hand. Great...just great.

Finally...rushing on my way out...I couldn't get the front door open. Nope...wouldn't budge. I finally pulled and it came open. I think it's swelled in the door frame...is that even possible? If you couldn't tell...I'm not going to win the Miss Handy Woman award. And I hate that little sucky sound it makes when it closes. Great...just great.

Thankfully, my day at school was so busy that I didn't have a lot of time to worry about my charming house.

I came home and remembered that in my haste this morning I'd forgotten to set the air back down. I'm new to central heat and air. Anyway, it was hot so I kicked off my shoes and was stripping off my shirt on my way to my bedroom. I pull the shirt over my head and look down...right before I step on a HUGE cockroach. I swear...that thing had to be an inch and a half long! It was on it's back with it's creepy legs flailing in the air. (I get the shivers just thinking about it.....eewww.) Anyway, I ran back to get my shoes on and put my shirt back on because I'm opening the back door to toss it out instead of flushing it. I run to get a paper towel to pick it up. I come back...and it's gone! That huge, creepy cockroach is crawling around my room somewhere.

I was flipping out. My father takes care of the bugs...not me. I was carefully lifting the covers on my bed, picking up clothes from the floor. Finally I spot his cockroachy butt near my closet. Forget the kind part of me that was going to set him free....I'm stepping on his butt and flushing him. (Sorry to all of you reading who like to be kind to nature...but I'm not kind to nature...especially when it's in my house!) Well...at least I can sleep easy. This may not sound like a house problem, but it is...how did it get in my house?!

Anyway, I'm armed with a new shower knob (though how to get it on is a little concerning) and Raid so tonight should be charm-free.

Uhmm...I really could use all the advice one might have to offer about putting on new knobs. I'm just saying.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

Last weekend I bought my first Christmas tree! My very first very own Christmas tree I might add. My $17 investment in the holiday season has been riding around all week in my trunk. I knew that if I brought it in then I'd want to put it up. So, I've kept it in the trunk. Well, next weekend I'm going home for Thanksgiving (a very happy event!) and I'll have to bring the tree in.

Is there a rule that says you have to wait until December to put up your Christmas tree?

So, I think I'll bring it in Thursday night and attack it when I get home the following Saturday. The lights are already sitting on my coffee table. They look at me and I hear them saying "Our friend the tree is in the trunk...we're lonely." Perhaps all the jingle bells have gone to my head, but I'm truly excited about decorating my tree. Anyway, just a few more weeks and I can put up the tree and not feel weird about it still being November...November before Thanksgiving.

In case you can't tell....I love Christmas!!!

There Is No Wisdom Here

I wish I had something witty or profound to say today, but I don't. Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and someone has all these great thoughts in their head? For example...Grey's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives (can you tell what I did last night...lol)?

Meredith and Mary Alice always have such insightful things to say. Sometimes I watch the show and think gee I wish I'd thought of that! Or I think I'm thinking that exact thing, but she said it so much better!

Anyway, I want to have something great to say today, but I don't.

Enjoy Friday and have a good weekend.

What A Faker

I'm a faker people! I'm not just faking a little...nope I'm faking all over the place. And I'm probably faking the worst type of thing...a friendship.

There is this woman. The first time I met her, I thought "Gosh I hope I never have to work with her!" so I was relieved when I found out she wasn't even in my grade level. Now, she's the freaking team leader of second grade due to brown-nosing. And did I mention...she's annoying as hell. She has this fake personality. She loves to clasp her hands in front of her and blink her eyes at you in way that screams "Hurry up...what you have to say is not as important as what I have to say." Not only is this person the team leader...she's my mentor. Grrr. Anyway, about five weeks ago, the other new teacher and I (the very disappointed mentees) went to the councilor and expressed some concerns we had. And the concerns were valid: 1. She's never taught second grade...great insight there. 2. Did I mention the annoyingly sweet personality? 3. She never talks to us...ever. If we need help we have to ask...she never meets us half way.

Well, when she found out we'd talked about her to someone in administration she was furious. She yelled and then later apologized. Trying to make the best of a not so good situation we agreed to try to make it work. Well, for me...that meant faking it. Now, she thinks we're friends. I wouldn't consider us friends but apparently she does. I do feel guilty about it because while she's not my favorite person and I want to run every time I see her I keep acting friendly. For example, when I had my Halloween party and invited all the second grade teachers I had to invite her because it would have seemed awkward if I didn't. She came...the nerve. So, when she invited me to a party at her house I felt compelled to go. At my party she noticed my scrapbook hobby. Guess what her hobby is? So, the day after her party she brought her scrapbook for me to look at it. It was good...I won't begrudge her a great scrapbook, but then today she invited me to a scrapbooking party at her house Friday. If you knew me you'd know I had a scrapbooking weakness...I said yes. (I'm screaming aaahhh and covering my head with my hands.) I'm such a faker!

So, the dilemma...what is the polite way to go back to just being acquaintances and not being friends? And am I a horrible person for not liking her but giving the impression that I do?

The Holiday Madness Is Here!!!!

Life is good today! It's crisp and cool outside. The leaves around me are turning and falling to the ground. They aren't as colorful as I've seen before, but I still enjoy the sight. But most of all...it's the beginning of my favorite holiday season. Christmas is my favorite holiday, but I love the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday combo. I've already seen commercials on tv getting everyone in the holiday mood. It's here...the craziness that comes from getting started on shopping, the parties being planned, a turkey to buy (or shoot if you're into that), the family time, and of course the food. This is the one time of the year that I don't fret about losing pounds but just maintaining the ones I have...lol.

The school district where I work is out for the entire week of Thanksgiving so that means I get to head home when school lets out that Friday. I'm so excited! I haven't been home since I moved (July) and I'm curious to see how things have changed...if they've changed. I'm counting down the days...only 14 left to go. That's two weeks!!!

I love this time of year because for me it's all about family. I love getting together with my family (every last nutty one) and celebrating what is truly important to us. This year is going to be different because both of my great grandmothers have passed away this Fall. These passings have really made me realize just how precious my time with family is. Especially now that I live so far away and don't see them as often. I truly have many blessings which to be thankful for and this year I'll be doing an extra close counting of them.

Anyway, I hope that the joy that comes with the holidays starts to uncurl in you and that you enjoy every moment of it!

Below is just a Thanksgiving funny.

Things you can only say at Thanksgiving

1. Talk about huge breasts!

2. Tying the legs together keeps the inside moist.

3. It's Cool Whip time!

4. If I don't undo my pants, I'll burst!

5. Whew, that's a terrific spread!

6. I'm in the mood for a little dark meat.

7. Are you ready for seconds yet?

8. It's a little dry, do you still want to eat it?

9. Just wait your turn, you'll get some!

10. Don't play with your meat.

11. Just spread the legs open and stuff it in.

12. Do you think you'll be able to handle all these people at once?

13. I didn't expect everyone to come at once!

14. You still have a little bit on your chin.

15. How long will it take after you stick it in?

16. You'll know it's ready when it pops up.

17. Wow, I didn't think I could handle all of that!

18. That's the biggest one I've ever seen!

19. How long do I beat it before it's ready?

Parent Woes

I truly love my job. Don't get me wrong...there are days when I go home wondering if I taught anything that day. And there are days when a child says something and I know that he got the idea or I see the light bulb go off. Those are great days! And then there are days like today...were the parents of my second grade darlings drive me nuts.

(WARNING: If you're a parent and you're already getting worked up at the idea that a teacher wouldn't appreciate all your comments and suggestions on how to teach then stop right here. It's a rant. On the other hand if you've been the parent or even the teacher and you feel like you might have some advice...please read on and drop that advice off in the comment box.)

Some might remember back in August that I mentioned I had a parent that was pretty rude on meet the teacher night. She said it would be an "interesting" year for her child implying that her child's education would be lacking because it was my first year to teach. Anyway, this parent has continued to be a thorn in my side.

At the end of the first nine weeks there was one day set aside for parent teacher conferences. They are scheduled 15 minutes apart because it's supposed to be a brief meeting. Brief was the operative word here. I purposely scheduled this parent for early in the day to avoid what I knew was coming...a confrontation. She (the mother) sent a note back (as opposed to the letters she'd been sending) requesting the last slot in the day. What to do? I could make this long and drawn out and relive every excruciating minute of the hour and a half meeting (did I mention they were supposed to be 15 minutes long?), but I'll just say it was a complete chewing out.

Anyone who really knows me understands that I don't cower down. I usually get hot tempered and start fighting back. This lady had me feeling so small I wanted to crawl under my desk and wave a white flag. Basically, I'm all wrong for this teaching profession and she "just really feels sorry for the other students." Yeah...crying wasn't optional...at least in front of her.

All of that back story to say that we'd come to some sort of agreement at that meeting. I'd send home more homework and assignments (to make up for all her child was lacking during the day in my care) so that the child would succeed. The very next week, the child comes up to me and returns said parent requested extra homework and says that mom said they didn't like this and that he didn't have to do it. Then came the day the student interrupted me during the lesson (in front of all the students) and said that mom said that the student didn't have to participate in this activity as she didn't see the point of it. And the final straw...today. We do this reading program called Book It! It's an incentive program to encourage reading and improve fluency. These are both major issues the mom had with my teaching style (she felt I didn't provide enough during the day and yet returns the extra homework...hmmm). Anyway, again in the middle of explaining it to the class, the student says that mom said the student didn't have to participate because they are too busy for reading.

Can you see why I'm frustrated!

So, my question to any parent or teacher that stops by...what is the deal? Do parents truly feel like their child is at a disadvantage with a new teacher in the classroom? Is this just typical parent behavior or are these parents going overboard? And to the teachers...how do you handle parents that find fault with everything? Any tips...from either side?

My student teacher mentor said that being a parent would effect what kind of teacher I would be and that being a teacher would effect what sort of classroom parent I'd be. Well, I'm not a parent and I'm feeling pretty resentful of these parents. These parents make the year look so long. I'd really like to find a balance and make everyone happy. Right now...seems impossible.