Through my eyes

Barack the Vote!

2008-11-04T20:03:00.002-06:00

As I sit on my couch, switching between CNN, FOX, CBS and NBC, plus surfing the net for election results, I must take a moment to say just how very much I LOVE Election Night.

I love voting. I love watching the results come in. I love the excitement and the tension and the controversy. I love the debate and the anticipation. I love the posturing and the projecting.

And while I must admit, I would be celebrating to the point of exhaustion if this was Hillary's night, I am excited about living in a blue nation again. It's been too long and been made worse by a stubborn, bumbling, ill-equipped president.

And of course, the history that will be made when Barack Obama becomes president-elect will be nothing short of electrifying. I, too, will be proud of my country for furthering Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream, for pushing our boundaries and adding a new, hopeful chapter to our collective history.

It's not simply a good time to be a Democrat, but a good time to be an American.

Politically obsessed,
Stefanie

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2008-08-25T21:57:00.005-05:00

Except this time, it's not me.

Tonight my mom is somewhere over the Atlantic Coast headed to Boston's Logan Airport.

To say I'm jealous would be putting it mildly. And the ironic thing is that Mama would so much rather be home than traveling, and I've had the itch to travel for a least a month now. My only attempt at scratching comes in the form of daydreams.

And yet, my jealousy pales in comparison to my worry for my Mama. I have absolutely NO idea how she bears with me through my transatlantic travels or just my constant need to hit the open road.

I've already tracked her flights down on the airline's website and discovered, at this moment, she's over Virginia.

Honestly, the best of both worlds would've been for me to accompany her to Bean Town, at least stepping foot on the campus I once dreamt of spending four years upon, Harvard University.

If I had been with her, I could've walked her through the bag-checking, boarding pass lines, talked her through the frustrating, but oh so necessary security ordeal and calmed her fears in navigating Atlanta's International Airport.

Simply put, we'd both be calm. Me knowing she was okay and taken care of and her having a veteran traveler help her avoid the pitfalls of TSA. Don't get me wrong, it's not as though my mother is not completely capable of taking care of herself. I just worry, just like she does every time I pack my bags in search of another adventure. She raised me to be a fiercely independent woman, but that doesn't mean she can sleep until she hears my voice safely in my new time zone.

And tonight, that sleepless worrier will be me, waiting for that phone to ring until I can settle down enough to rest, knowing she's safe.

Ironically yours,
Stefanie

Edited to add: I received my comforting phone call at 12:04 a.m. Safe and sound.

So...

2008-08-07T21:25:00.003-05:00

I've been a bit MIA for a while. Sorry about that. Sometimes, I just don't have much to say. And yes, I do realize that's hard to believe.

My absence hasn't been in vain. I've been quite the productive girl.

Things I've done/Things I might elaborate more about in a future post
*Worked as a crew leader at Vacation Bible School: Power Lab
VBS rocked my world. Seriously, it was the most fun I've had in a long, long time.

*Spent too little, but much appreciated time with my BFF Elizabeth. Sadly, she has since returned to London.

* Took Awesome Austin to the Pink Palace for his eighth birthday. We got to see the Sea Monsters IMAX film and the Treasure Exhibit.

* Went fishing on the Great Mississippi River with my fabulous parents. My daddy picked me some wild berries. They were surprising good. I forgot their name. It wasn't like Wilbur or anything.

*Hosted about a dozen ladies from my Ladies Group for the entree stop in our first summer Progressive Dinner.

*Flirted.

*Took three days off to kick the house into high gear. I painted the hallway, took the border down in the office and the master bath, touched up the paint in the office, learned how to use an electric hedge trimmer, trimmed every hedge I own, raked until I couldn't see straight, pulled weeds until nearly all the skin on my forefinger was gone.

*Saw The Dark Knight. Heath Ledger is truly phenomenal in this role.

*Drank some beer while playing some trivia at the Flying Saucer.

*Wandered through my favorite store, The Antique Gallery and daydreamed.

*Cooked dinner for my parents...more than once.

*Finished the New Testatment. Started the Old Testament.

*Finally hung some pictures.

Busy, busy,
Stefanie

Feeling young again

2008-06-07T17:19:00.004-05:00

So I've been feeling old, suburban, stuck lately. I'm guessing it has something to do with paying a mortgage, pushing 30 and getting excited when I find 2-liters of Dr. Pepper on sale for 89 cents.

Fortunately, last weekend I had the kind of time that'll make a girl feel young again and forget all about that mortgage and those silly 2-liters (which are still a great deal, folks!)

Friday night, my friend Tammy introduced me to her daughter, Lori. Lori has quickly become one of my new favorite people. She has that joie de vivre that inspires me to reach outside my boundaries and shake things up.

While our initial goal was to see the long-awaited Sex and the City movie, we were thwarted due to sold-out shows and ended up drinking Cosmopolitans, eating European-inspired meals and laughing all night at the quaint 1912 restaurant in Midtown.

And since we had SUCH a fabulous time and completely hit it off, Lori invited me to watch SATC the next night with some of her girlfriends.

So after a long day of yard work, running, and softball, I quickly ran home, showered and got dressed up in a little black dress and fabulous magenta Ferragamo heels. Then I picked up Lori and we met Nikki and Kara for Cosmos at 1912.

And then after four years of waiting, we were reunited with Charlotte, Carrie, Miranda and Samantha. Oh, I missed them! I won't ruin it, but the movie was fabulous, a bit fairy tale, but fabulous.

But the movie is two and a half hours long...and I'm pushing 30 people. I'm the freaking City Clerk for goodness sakes and here it is nearly 1 a.m. But Lori pushed for "just one drink" and not wanting to appear uncool, I agreed.

After trying Young Avenue Deli and not feeling the vibe, we headed over to Dish. And that's when we stumbled upon Salsa dancing at Cafe Ole. Before I knew it, it was 3 a.m. and I'd danced and laughed and flirted my way through the night.

It was simply amazing. And just what I needed.

Luckily, Lori loved it every bit as much as I did and we're going back tonight. That's that joie de vivre I was talking about.

This is the life,
Stefanie

Advice from a domestic goddess

2008-05-26T11:27:00.003-05:00

In honor of Memorial Day, I thought it appropriate to work on the eternal list of chores around the house. And since from day one I've worried about the air filter, I thought this 90 degree day would be best to check it out.

I wanted to get started on some outside projects before noon, so after cleaning the bathtub and doing a couple loads of laundry, I slick myself up with suntan lotion. And then I think to myself, "Oh, I should check out what size air filter I need." I had asked my daddy to come over and walk me through it since I had NO idea about air filters, where they go or how to get them there.

So I pull down the attic stairs and realize the light is out. I grab a flashlight and up I go, only to realize I have zero clue how to get on the other side of the attic stairs once I get up there. I tuck my flashlight in my sports bra (Always wear a sports bra when in the attic!) and pray. As you can tell, I made it.

Then there's the challenge of crawling over the pipes and wires and under the insulated tubing. I felt very much like a Bond girl...in a sports bra and running shorts. And as I'm squatted down and crawling, I realize that lotioning oneself up prior to climbing into an oven-like, dark crawl space is not so much genius. Although the attic's grime and dust LOVE it as it clings to your sweaty greasy knees. And let's not forget the slickness created when your thighs and calves rub together as you plot your next move. Oh, and did I forget to mention that all the while you are clinging to the flashlight with your teeth.

Once I make it to the air conditioner, it takes me a good five minutes to figure out where in the hell the air filter should go. And of course, it is at the farthest reaches of the tiny, dark, sweltering attic.

And then my greatest discovery - no clean air filters.

So sweaty, grimy domestic goddess reverses the process, all the while praying and drooling a little as the flashlight is still clinched between my teeth.

I'm honestly just glad I survived. Don't try this at home.

Domestically challenged,
Stefanie

More evidence for "the home"

2008-05-21T21:44:00.003-05:00

So as most anyone who knows me knows, my mother is...crazy. Crazy, for the most part, in a good, funny way. And lately I've been telling her she needs to start a blog because really, she is better at telling her crazy stories herself. But alas, she has yet to do so, so I'm here to share another "Mommie Dearest" tale.

At work today I receive an email titled "Cabby and Patchy" from my mother. At first I think it's a forward, but here is the email in full.

"Hi Sweetie...

Guess What ???? Cabby and Patchy got all new outfits from Baby Gap yesterday. They look soooooooooooooooo cute. No more ole hot stuffy denim..they are dressed in lovely matching summer attire. They were so happy yesterday when I got them all dressed....what an exciting day it was !!

Love you."

(Just a brief explanation, fifteen years ago my mom bought Baby Gap outfits for my old Cabbage Patch dolls because she thought they needed updating. One had on a denim jumper and long sleeved shirt and the other had on jeans and a Gap sweatshirt. Every year during spring cleaning, she washes their clothes.)

This was the complete email. No preface. No explanation. Nothing.

I die laughing at my desk. I couldn't make this stuff up if I tried.

And since there's no decent response to such at email I call her at work.

MD: Hello this is "MD."
Me: You know I'm just going to file this in "More evidence for 'the home.'
MD: laughs
Me: You should really start your own blog. I can't appropriately tell these stories.
MD: Why? So the whole world can try to put me in a home?
Me: So they can see that when I say you are crazy, I'm not kidding. When people ask me how my parents are I always say, "Good. Crazy, but good." And people laugh, like I'm kidding.
MD: But they look sooooooooooooooo cute, Stefanie. And they are sooooooooooooo much happier in their new outfits. And they even match your room (my childhood bedroom.)
Me: (Sits in silence, shaking head.)
MD: You really should come over and see them. Oh, and they have matching socks too!
Me: I'm posting your email to my blog. Can you send me pictures or should I come over and do a photo shoot.
MD: Oh, Cabby and Patchy would LOVE a photo shoot.
Me: We could take them out to the Clematis and do it. (Every year until this year since I bought them a camera, she's asked me to photograph her Clematis.)
MD: Ahhhh...that would be wonderful. I'll send you pictures tonight after work.

So, without further ado and because NO explanation helps, I introduce Cabby and Patchy in their new summer attire.

She sent me eight pictures total and I picked the three most representative ones. I'm torn between the one on the window seal and the one in the Clematis as my favorite.

Never a dull moment,
Stefanie

What a weekend!

2008-05-18T21:49:00.003-05:00

While last weekend, I recovered from the incredible party celebrating my 29th bday and house purchasing powers, this weekend I made up for it by cramming it full of ...a little bit of everything.

Friday - Barbecue Fest

Although I'm a native Memphian, I've never been to this international pork celebration because I've always heard you have to know somebody to party. And even though we had VIP passes, it's true. You gotta know a somebody, be somebody or lie like you know somebody.

But, who's to let a beautiful Friday night in downtown Memphis go to waste? So Joey, Loryn and I feasted on Blues City Cafe ribs and tamales. And while we feasted, I introduced myself to the four gentlemen at the table next to us who were here for some kind of dorky older guy convention. The star of their party was Blaine from Iowa. Blaine's 50, has hair implants and fake teeth. He shared all of this with us with more bravado than you'd think possible and all to the chagrin of his tablemates.

Just before leaving, we stopped in at the restroom, where I met Jeff from Arizona. Jeff was here with the Convention and Visitor's Bureau. Joey was quite impressed that I could meet someone in line to the restroom, but when you got it, you got it. Jeff bought me a beer which meant I owed him a decent conversation. He wanted to meet up later, but like most of them, he didn't get his wish.

Oh, and then, I met Joe from St. Louis, who we were all convinced was gay, but still alleged he liked my dancing. We chatted it up with Joe, here with a bachelor party, and his friends for a few before heading back to B-town for a long nights sleep.

Saturday - Slumber Party

Saturday was filled with preparations for my first overnight guests, Mr. Austin and Miss Aubrey. I picked them up about 4:45, we had dinner at Burger King. Well, I had dinner and they took bites of their happy meals in between running, screaming and sliding. Then we came home, played frisbee, ring toss, danced, visited with my parents, made fudge and watched movies. I'm not sure about them, but I was exhausted by 9:30. Aubrey stayed up until midnight and Austin, bless his heart, didn't make it to sleep until after 4 a.m. when the benedryl finally kicked in. Aubrey woke up at 7:20 a.m. and I slept between Austin falling asleep and Aubrey waking up. I swear, I don't know how you parents do it. And at this point, I may never find out.

Sunday - Recover/Softball double header

After my guests departed with their mama, I headed to church to witness one of my dearest friends get engaged in front of the whole congregation. Congrats to Rebekah and Adam! Then I trudged home for a three-hour nap. I forced myself out of bed for an afternoon of softball. Fortunately, I got to sub, which means I kept score and called people a ho. Now, before you go judging, it wasn't my fault. The second person to bat after the person at bat is "In the hole," and when you run it all together it sounds like they are, in fact, a ho. So I just went straight to the name calling and we all had a blast. Not to mention, we won both games.

And now, I'm headed to my fabulous new bed for some MUCH needed rest.

Worn out from fun,
Stefanie

Cinco de Mayo: A year in review

2008-05-05T22:24:00.013-05:00

So today is my 29th's birthday. Today begins the "Good-bye to the 20s" tour. And while in comparison to year 28, it should be relaxed, I still believe it will be a fabulous year. What other options are there really?

As hoped for, my 28th year was amazing. It was full of highs, some planned, some not. And it was also full of lows, which fortunately I've not only recovered from, but learned from as well. It's all about growth, people.

The year started out with the trip of a lifetime. For at least half my life, I'd dreamed of going to Paris and spitting off the Eiffel Tower. (Who needs boring dreams?) And three weeks after I blew out the candles on my 28th birthday cake, I embarked on my first international trip. Just hours after landing in Paris, I laid eyes on the Iron Lady on Saturday, May 26, 2007. Then three days later, I climbed to the top and spit into the wind.
You would think that starting the year by accomplishing your life's dream might lend itself to a downward spiral, but alas, I had just gotten started.

The remaining two weeks of my time in France and Italy were unbelievable, as many of you read about through my journaling. After six days in Paris, Becky and I headed to Florence, Pisa, Rome, Venice and Milan where we spent nine days cramming in as many sights as humanly possible while not skipping out on incredible food, wine and shopping.

Sadly, one of the year's biggest lows came shortly after my dream trip. Becky and I haven't spoken since June 2007 and although I've attempted to reconcile, we remain apart.

Then, I made a third attempt at dating my best guy friend, which didn't turn out so fabulously. BUT, we remain great friends. My continued friendship with Mike is most definitely my relationship highlight of the year.

But let us not forget Dior.

Which leads me to where I wore the dress of all dresses and five-inch Christian Dior stilettos - My ten-year high school reunion. Now most of you that read this blog know me and know I was nerdy in high school. (Yes, nerdier than I am now.) And therefore, I HAD to look and feel amazing. Apparently, I did because not only did I win Most Changed Female, but was also named Most Eligible Bachelorette.

During this same time, I fell in love and truly thought I'd found the person I was going to spend my life with. Only to discover on November 3, 2007 that was the farthest thing from the truth. In hindsight, I probably should've picked up on that sooner, but love is blind. And whatever I was in took blind to a whole new level. This breakup was second only to the BIG breakup of 1997, making the months of November, December, some of January and February not worth re-living. In short, there were many tears, vomiting, weight loss, depression and general pathetic-ness. In fact, after months of not speaking, I thought we were going to work on a friendship, but alas, he has shown his true colors by ceasing communication. Nonetheless, I wish him all the best, just preferably not in my time zone.

In November, I made my second National League of Cities trip with the Mayor and his wife and although I hated life in general, I think I did a fairly good job and I tasted friend alligator, which kinda does taste like chicken. Oh, I also volunteered to be the President of the Ladies of Grace, the Women's Ministry at church.

Christmas is a bit of a blur, but it was our second Christmas with Josh, Mandy, Austin and Aubrey and therefore was fabulous. But overall, Christmas was a bit depressing since the boy and I had made holiday plans.

New Year's was spent celebrating Josh and Mandy's wedding in Orange Beach, Alabama. I got to spend a long weekend with them, rang in the New Year and had a wonderful time shooting the sunset wedding on the beach.

Shortly after 2008 began, I took office as President of my Ladies Group and have been trying my hardest to bring the ladies together as a sisterhood in Christ. I'll keep you posted on how that pans out in December. On a similar note, I did complete Level 2 Discipleship training. I should complete all four levels by year's end.

Just three weeks into January, I cheered myself up with yet another trip across the pond to visit my dearest Elizabeth during her year-long studies in London.

When I went to Europe in May/June 2007, I never in my wildest dreams thought I'd go back so soon. In fact, I just hoped to go back at all. We spent a whirlwind, chilly week laughing, drinking and seeing the major sights in Elizabeth's home away from home. Oh, and while I was there, we hopped over to Dublin for a night, like ya do when you're a world traveler.

Once I arrived home, I began focusing all my chi on planting roots in the ninth largest city in Tennessee. And on March 27, 2008, I bought my first home. Between London and buying the house, I did manage to squeeze in yet another trip to Washington D.C. for the National League of Cities Congress of Cities. (In the midst of the homebuying and the moving and the party-throwing, I have yet to upload pics from that trip.)

And that brings me to this weekend, when I threw a party to warm my new house and celebrate my birthday. So many people came and were so generous. My house truly feels like home now. Thanks to everyone for helping me break it in.

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to see the Queen of Soul live at Memphis in May's MusicFest. To say it was phenomenal would be a serious understatement. By the end of the concert, I was just three people from the front of the stage, covered in sweat and unable to move from the knee down. On the eve of my birthday, Aretha Franklin sang "Respect," "Chain of Fools" and "Freeway of Love" to me. Plus, one of the Temptations came out and sang "My Girl," which almost brought me to tears.

And today I did what I love most, I slept and spent the evening with my parents.

In terms of relationships, this has been one of the most difficult years of my adult life. I've lost two best friends. And now I'm left without that go-to person, that person I can call at all hours and whine too or celebrate with on a moment's notice. But, what Christ has been teaching me throughout this is that He can be my best friend. He's always there. And while it's a tough lesson to learn, it's more than worth it.

Plus, the friends I now have in my life are dependable and supportive. That's not to say that won't change, but I feel comfortable and accepted. Plus, when you have friends that help you move in the rain, how can you not feel blessed?

My 28th year will always be special since it was the year my dreams came true. After more than a year of MUCH saving and planning and preparing, I succeeded. I know longer just talk about "one day." Now, I go through the pictures at Notre Dame on that cold, rainy day, holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa and cheesing it up in front of the Coliseum.

Determination and faith go a long way in pushing something from a dream to reality. And that's a lesson that took me 28 years to learn.

And though my heart still aches for the relationships I've lost, I rest my faith in the knowledge that God has something even better in store for me.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. "- Jeremiah 29:11

Pushing forward and pushing thirty,
Stefanie

Memories

2008-04-20T20:48:00.004-05:00

As much as I love my new home and as excited as I am to own it, I can't help but miss my apartment. I lived there for nearly four years and a lot of memories, both good and bad were created there.

I'll never forget...

my last first kiss.

blowing up Halloween Peeps in the microwave with my two favorite children in all the world.

my first Christmas with my Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

making my first pecan pies and coconut creme pies for Thanksgiving.

when I moved in and had to fight with baby Chance and Sugar to stay in the bathroom.

playing Trivial Pursuit with John, Amy and Mike. Amy blurted out the answer to Mike and I's question - Mr. Rogers.

dancing around the apartment with Elizabeth, countless times.

packing for Paris.

being crumpled on the bathroom floor in tears.

sitting in my living room with furniture and boxes scattered all around and wondering how in the world I go to be so blessed to move back home and work for the City.

the creepy bug guy telling me about his trip to the actual Body Farm at UT Knoxville after he noticed I was reading the Body Farm by Patricia Cornwell.

intentionally breaking the Saucer glass to bits on the patio.

opening the Christmas cards with the generousity that made me cry.

making dozens upon dozens of Magic Cookie Bars in that tiny kitchen.

falling in love...and out of love.

walking in every day, whether it was a fabulous day or a rough one and being thankful for the 952 square feet that was my refuge and comfort for three years, eight months and 23 days.

It was good and it was bad, but it was all mine.

Nostagically yours,
Stefanie

Tagged

2008-04-20T20:21:00.004-05:00

So Joye from Here I am tagged me in a Meme. I've known Joye since the sixth grade and I must sadly report that that's been 17 years. Wow.

So…here are the rules:
1. Link back to the person who tagged you.
2. Post these rules on your blog.
3. Share six unimportant things about yourself
4. Tag six random people at the end of your entry.

I would like to point out that I'm unclear about the definition of "unimportant," so I'm just gonna note some randomness off the top of my head.

1. During Board meetings, the Mayor refers to me as "Madame Clerk." I find this hilarious and flattering all at once. I even have a Madame Clerk voice. It's quite professional. Oh, the people I fool.

2. I love the feeling I can when I accomplish a project at my new house. Today I did some yard work and I loved it. Knowing that everything I do improves my investment and my quality of life and the community is a fantastic feeling.

3. It makes me feel like a good mommy when Chance and Sugar sit at one of the open windows and stare out into the big world outside. The apartment had only one window and two doors with windows. They had an extremely limited view of the world and I feel like I've literally opened it up for them. Plus, they love laying in the new bed and waiting for me at night. It's the coziest feeling.

4. Tonight my parents came over for my first official dinner in the new house. It was a thank you for all their hard work and generosity. I sincerely couldn't ask for better parents. Plus, it's been wonderful to spend so much time with them. And, buying the house has pushed me further in my life goal of making my parents proud of me. You can see it in their eyes.

5. I just got DVR and I already freaking LOVE it. My decision to get DVR was based on one thing and one thing only - The Office. I simply cannot afford to miss it. It's my favorite show and was the only thing that made me laugh after my break-up and it's kept me laughing since.

6. After I'm finished unpacking and have my housewarming/birthday party, I'm going to start planning my next trip. I'll be headed to South America for my 30th birthday. Habitat for Humanity builds houses all over the world, so I'm gonna head to Argentina or Chile or maybe even Peru and build some houses in celebration of the big mile marker. I mean, how can I have a mental breakdown if I'm doing what I love, right?

I'm supposed to tag six people, but I'm pretty sure that the bloggers that I know personally or that read my blog have been tagged. But if you haven't been tagged and want to do this meme, please let me know so I can check out your random facts.

Love and randomness,
Stefanie

Getting settled

2008-04-19T23:16:00.007-05:00

I'm officially too tired to truly update thanks to MUCH work on the house, so I've got some pictures and some bullet points. Enjoy!

*The sheets are good. I'm still getting used to the whole bed thing, but the cats definitely love it.

*I bought groceries after a several-month hiatus and two full weeks of fast food. I splurged and got TWO pints of Ben and Jerry's.

*I LOVE my master bedroom. I wasn't sure how I'd adjust to a grown-up bedroom, but it turns out it's absolutely fabulous. I've spent more money on that room than any other. Including the two side tables in this pic, which I picked up at The Antique Gallery in Bartlett for $96 TOTAL! I am SO pumped about this awesome find.

*My parents are AWESOME!!! They have helped me SO much with projects at the house and I couldn't have done it without them.

*The back of the house flooded last weekend - twice. Daddy fixed it and he's totally my hero for it.

It's good he's so handy, cuz he's not so great with the camera focus.

My new house!

Sugar helping with the unpacking.

Lastly some arty shots from around the house.

Dr. Pepper wishes and Turkey sandwich dreams,

Stefanie

The business of sleep

2008-04-12T20:19:00.002-05:00

Tonight I'll be sleeping in my new bed on my new mattress with my new sheets. Earlier today out of sheer exhaustion I tested out my fresh off the truck mattresses and have seriously never slept better.

Three hours later, I was convinced that long gone are the days on the futon. The bed is SO comfortable, I'm even looking forward to sleeping on the sheets and sheets haven't been part of my nighttime routine since college. I'll keep you posted on whether or not they win me over.

Living in luxury,
Stefanie

Feeling like home

2008-04-10T21:19:00.003-05:00

Day by day this house is becoming our home. And it's all about the little things.

Chance and Sugar love the view from the many windows on both floors.

I love sleeping with the windows open for the first time in four years.

I love being able to get ready using only the morning sunlight through the bathroom window.

I love not knowing what the temperature outdoors is until I walk from my car to City Hall.

I love sitting in my office and staring off into the distance as the sunsets.

When the girl at Pizza Hut asked if my new address was for a house or an apartment and I got to say house for the first time ever.

I LOVE the new bed from Pottery Barn sitting in my master bed room just waiting for mattresses to arrive. And I'm SO thankful that my parents are so generous and more supportive than anyone deserves.

I love that I have a home of my own.

Falling in love and knowing it's the one,
Stefanie

Ahhh...that's more like it

2008-03-31T20:36:00.002-05:00

While the cable guy squeezed blood from a turnip this morning, things are much improved this evening - thanks to Mama and Daddy.

Mama helped me figure out the best layout for the living room, which was absolutely driving me crazy.

Daddy hung all new blinds in the master bedroom and living room.

Everything feels much homier tonight.

On the way home from dinner, it felt weird not driving back to the apartment that I've made memories in for nearly the past four years, but I'm so unbelievablely excited to have this house and make all new memories.

Getting comfortable,
Stefanie

Sooooo comforting

2008-03-31T09:30:00.004-05:00

So today Comcast is scheduled to come out and turn on my cable. Piece of cake, right?

Oh, how wrong could you be.

The "cable guy" walks in my living room, sees my tv on CBS and asks if that's cable.

Really?! They sent THIS guy to install my cable. He doesn't even KNOW what cable is.

Awesome!

I'll post when he's gone and let you know if I have anything other than the four channels I've got now.

Annoyed before 10 a.m.
Stefanie

Edited to add -
Cable guy: That's gonna be difficult. I mean, I don't think I can even do that. (Continue to go on about difficulty of moving a cable outlet to another wall.)
Me: (Inside my head - Isn't this your job? Do I look like I care if it's difficult? Umm, aren't I PAYING you for this? If it wasn't difficult I'd do it myself!) Uh huh. So how bout you get it as close as you can.
Cable guy: Uh Ok, but it's gonna be difficult. See this house is offset...blah blah blah.

Comes back in after digging through truck for "tools."
Cable guy: You know there's gonna be an extra charge for that extra outlet, right?
Me: Yea. (Inside my head - Just freaking DO IT!!!!!)

I have a fear

2008-03-30T16:25:00.002-05:00

I have a fear that for all my lust of the HBO, I may not actually need more than CBS, NBC and The Office.

Wouldn't it be awesome if there was a channel that played The Office, bloobers, commentaries, interviews and deleted scenese of The Office 24/7?

Or maybe I just need to get out more.

Not nearly unpacked,
Stefanie

I have arrived

2008-03-29T16:53:00.002-05:00

So, I come to you from my new HOUSE, that I own or at least I will in 30 years.

Everything is here. The kitties are severely less than thrilled, but they are safe and sound and hiding in the master bedroom closet. Stuff is everywhere, but wow. It's in MY house, so I can't really say I care.

My car is parked in MY garage where it is out of the rain.

The rain didn't dampen the day because as both Mama and I thought - It's good luck for a bride when it rains on her wedding day, so it must be the same for your first house.

I've got The Office playing on my tv in my living room and I'm hoping to fall asleep with all the stress of buying a house and moving in my rearview mirror.

This is fabulous on a whole new level.

Abundantly grateful and tired,
Stefanie

It's a house!

2008-03-28T21:09:00.002-05:00

So Thursday morning, I bought my very own house. A HOUSE!!!

I've had only a few brief moments, where it really sunk in that I owned my own home. Tonight, when Mama and I were bringing a few things in and getting ready to clean, I realized that this was no longer the house I looked at three times, but my new home. A place that I'll entertain my friends, have endless phone conversations, dance til I'm breathless, cry like the world is ending and work like I've never worked before.

It's a really amazing feeling. And one I'm having difficulty describing. Maybe I'll have more luck the next time I blog since I'll be doing it from the house I pay the mortgage on, my little piece of this earth, the place where my rules are the ONLY rules.

It has truly been the most stressful couple weeks I can remember. I haven't slept. I've been physically ill. I've had migraines and muscle tension and stomach problems. I've not been able to focus and at the risk of oversharing - I've been on my period for almost three full weeks.

But it has been SO ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT!!!!!

This past year, this 28th year of my life, has proven to me upon a shadow of any doubt that I can do whatever I set my mind to.

And now, as I near my 29th birthday, I start a new adventure in domesticity and suburbia. And I couldn't be more excited.

Planting my roots,
Stefanie

The land without Dr. Pepper

2008-03-12T14:41:00.004-05:00

You know, a lot of people think I'd love to move to DC and be close to all the politcal action seeing how passionate I am about such things. But the truth of the matter is, I couldn't live anywhere they don't have Dr. Pepper. I mean, it's like a Communist country or something. I can go for a long time without a lot of things, but Dr. Pepper is not one of them. Potted meat, Taco Bell, my kitties and hugs from my parents are others.

So this morning started off with appointments with our two Representatives, Marsha Blackburn and Steve Cohen. On our way to the Cannon Building for our first meeting, a rushed Maryland driver felt the need to cut off our taxi driver and smash into us. Leaving us stranded in the blustery cold blocks from our destination. There went my hairdo for the day!

None of us were harmed, just a bit shaken and cold.

So we make it through security after I'm forced to shed my shoes in the U.S. House of Representatives building and we are heading toward the elevator. Patty had said she thought she saw a famous baseball player in line ahead of us, but wasn't sure. But she did indeed see said baseball player, Steve Garvey, former first baseman for the L.A. Dodgers and San Diego Padres.

Steve Garvey

The elevator we got on was extremely tiny, so Garvey and Patty were nearly nose to nose. She said, "I told them I saw a famous person." And he responded, "Who'd you see," with a grin. Totally awesome.

And then we met with staff for all four of our Congressman, which further confirmed my love of all things government-related.

And now we are waiting for our plane to arrive so I can go home and have a big ol' glass of Dr. Pepper and a potted meat sandwich.

Deeply rooted at home,

Stefanie

Bums come in lots of disguises

2008-03-11T20:24:00.004-05:00

As the Mayor, Patty and I were walking around DC tonight, we passed a homeless man who felt compelled to share some worldly wisdom with me.

First and foremost - "Stay in school young lady and listen to your parents." EVERYONE we encounter on these trips thinks I'm their daughter, and while it's a totally logical assumption, it's also quite humorous.

Secondly - "Stay away from drugs."

Lastly, and most importantly - "And don't marry a bum." (And he is literally yelling down the street at me at this point.) And then he takes a dramatic pauses and ends with "Bums come in lots of disguises!"

But can I just get an Amen from the Congregation on that last little nugget of truth! Oh yes sir, do I ever KNOW that bums come in many disguieses! And I've dated just about every variety!

*************************************************************
**This section is TOTALLY unrelated to the title of this post.**

This afternoon I had the rare pleasure of attending a coffee in Senator Lamar Alexander's office with Senator Alexander and Senator Bob Corker.

As many of you know, if I were a Senator, I'd sit on the other side of the aisle than these honorable public servants, but I LOVED every minute of our visit. I just sat there grinning ear to ear trying hard to quiet my inner monologue so I could listen to what these influential men had to share with us.

Sometimes there are moments where I simply can't believe how cool my job is and how blessed I am to live this life.

These are the days,
Stefanie

Adventures in the Nation's Capital

2008-03-10T20:33:00.004-05:00

Hello all!

I just wanted to briefly update as I'm about to curl up in my king-sized bed at the Hilton Washington because I've got a 5:30 a.m. wake up call arriving quicker than I'd like.

After six inches of snow blanketed Bartlett, I caught an early flight with the Mayor, his wife, two aldermen and their wives to DC. Thus far, things have gone well. I've felt on top of things (Gawd forbid I just jinxed myself!) and the weather and company have been lovely.

Saturday after we recovered from our bumpy flight and lack of sleep, we attended the opening National League of Cities reception at the Corcoran Museum, which was beautiful AND I tried asparagus for the first time. My life just overflows with adventure, no?

On the way home from the reception we passed a street blocked off for a movie film crew...for a movie starring Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck. Hello! Can we stop the bus?! Patty, the Mayor's wife and I caught a cab directly back down there and wandered around hoping to bump into sexy famous people. Unfortunately, we found no such celebrities, but we did get to check out the "set" and had a nice little adventure. I even hailed a cab for the first time, just moments from the White House.

Sunday was one excessively boring three-hour public safety meeting and then dinner with the entire B-town delegation.

Monday we toured Mount Vernon and admired the amazing view of the Potomoc. We even got to check out the Dung Repository on Washington's 2300-acre farm. Oh, and I had the pleasure of petting a sheep, then watching it pee. And then I petted a pair of oxen named Duke and Earl (I am not making this stuff up.) Then we headed to Georgetown for dinner. We ended up at the very spot were JFK proposed to Jackie Bouvier in 1953, Martin's Tavern on Wisconsin Avenue.

And now the warmth and comfort of the bed calls.

Confidently yours,
Stefanie

Oh my goodness! OH MY GOODNESS!

2008-03-06T22:30:00.003-06:00

So it looks like I'm buying a house. A HOUSE!!!!

Yesterday I made an offer; they counter-offered last night. I countered their counter-offer this morning, much confusion ensued this afternoon and now I'm closing on a 1,600-plus square foot house in three weeks. THREE WEEKS!!!

Oh my goodness!

I bought a house.

OH MY GOODNESS!

It still has quite sunk in, but what little has is totally tripping me out.

Wow! Woah! Holy cow!

Looks like I'll be having one fabulous birthday party this year!!!

I'm moving on up,
Stefanie

Searching for "the one"

2008-03-02T22:09:00.004-06:00

So my house hunt continues. Each time I talk to friends and co-workers about finding the right house, everyone's response is the same, "You'll know when you find 'the one.'"

I think that this response might be just as stressful as trying to find a house that meets all my needs, wants and falls into my price range.

Let's face it. I have NO idea what finding "the one" is like. I've thought on multiple occasions that I'd found "the one" to spend my life with only to find out how wrong I was somewhere down the road. So when someone says, "You'll know when you find 'the one,'" I think "Oh my gosh! Am I going to buy a house and find out it wanted another owner, doesn't like girls or only seemed perfect on first glance." This is NOT comforting!

But today, my real estate agent comforted me some. I asked her about the "the one" response I'd been getting and she agreed, but then countered with, "Well, you'll definitely know what you don't want when you see it." THIS is a train of thought I'd can jump on board with. Just like with dating, I know almost immediately when I completely don't want to be with a guy - when he's a total goober, a Neanderthal or a complete perv.

Nonetheless, just like with my love life, I have an intense fear of commitment and the same seems to be true for buying a house. Tonight, my stomach is upset and I've had to take two Aleve to deal with my headache and overall aches from stress and anxiety. Let me be more direct: I am freaking out.

To add to my stress, I'm leaving for a business trip Saturday for five days. I am totally freaked out that someone will put an offer on my house before I get back and then I'll have to live in my apartment forever or buy one of the severely-less-than-fabulous houses I've seen on my hunt.

So to sum up - I'm freaking out about buying the house and freaking out about not being able to buy the house. Maybe it's not really all that strange that I'm still single.

Maybe you all could say a little prayer that I get the house and that I don't get an ulcer in the process.

Anxiously yours,
Stefanie

Pictures from London

2008-02-25T22:12:00.004-06:00

Inside Southwark Cathedral, where William Shakespeare attended services.

Yours truly having a shot of Bailey's in it's own cup made of chocolate.

Authentic fish and chips

Southwark Cathedral at dusk

A freezing Stefanie at London Bridge

Lost in memories,
Stefanie

House hunting

2008-02-24T23:05:00.002-06:00

So Saturday went well. We looked at five houses and I liked three of them, one in particular.

This one is the one I keep thinking about. It has no major negatives, has an open floor plan, a garage, hardwood floors and it's close to everything, including work.

Next Saturday, I'll be headed out again, hopefully to check out more potential homes.

Now that I've really started this process, it's exciting and a bit hard to believe. I mean, buying a house is huge. While it'll be more responsibility, it will be so fabulous to decorate the way I want and change things and have people over for dinner parties or movie nights.

Growing up isn't so bad after all.

Cautiously excited,
Stefanie

P.S. - How 'bout those VOLS?!

Big Decisions

2008-02-23T10:46:00.003-06:00

So today is a big day. A BIG DAY.

Today at noon I'll be meeting with my real estate agent for the first time to go look at houses. HOUSES.

I'm going to BUY A HOUSE. This is insane.

And to be honest, I'm a little scared, overwhelmed and incredibly excited.

I've been prequalified and I've found a realtor who's not a perv and now I just need to find a house that I can make a home.

I feel like this is my one giant leap into adulthood. And while I can't wait to have a home of my own, I've definitely enjoyed this borderline existence in Neverland.

Now if I could only get prequalified for a boyfriend and have someone show me several of those in one day, I'd be set.

Oh wait, that would be a pimp. Nevermind!

Decidedly yours,
Stefanie

Back in the saddle and better than before

2008-02-18T21:58:00.004-06:00

To say the least, it's been a long, difficult winter. Winter's never been my favorite season and with a broken heart to go along with the drearily short days, gray skies and chilly temperatures, it's been worse than normal.

Maybe I should say, it was worse than normal for a while, a long while. But that's behind me now.

My faith, day by day, has hung on Christ's presence in my life and He hasn't let me down. Not that I thought He would.

Things are not only looking up, but infinitely better than they looked before my two and a half month foray down that bittersweet path.

Tonight I did something I haven't done since September 2007. Something I LOVED doing. Something that has always been just for me. I ran. I only did 2 miles, but I ran them in 20 minutes, which is truly a miracle because I normally average about 12.30 per mile on a good day. Granted, I was running inside on a treadmill, but still. It felt amazing.

And while I know Mommie Dearest will totally stroke out upon reading what I have to say next, I must admit it.

The day my heart was last broken, November 3, was the last time I cleaned my bathtub. (Yes, I am all too aware of how gross that is. And I can hear Mommie Dearest uttering my whole name. Is that the phone ringing? Must be her.) That is, until this Saturday, when the combination of being grossed out, energy and motivation kicked in.

I realize this might be odd, but I feel like this is a progressive sign. For whatever reason, I've been holding on to that stupid date and the fact that I cleaned the bathroom then as some kind of depressing anchor. And now I've let it go. And I've started running again. And blogging more often. And reading my Bible. And praying without ceasing. And believing in myself and the power of the Holy Spirit.

I've got a long way to go, but I've come so very far.

Letting go and Letting God,
Stefanie

Raise your glass

2008-02-17T21:35:00.006-06:00

This post is dedicated to the "motherland" - Ireland.

In the handful of hours I got to spend in Ireland, the people were warm and welcoming, had truly dreamy accents and were smart enough to build a pub on every corner, much like Walgreens here in America.

As you can see, Ireland was green in January. But don't let the emerald shores fool you. Nope, as we walked along the Liffey River towards our hotel, I thought we might have landed in the North Pole. I think the Irish drink to forget the cold. But whatever the reason I agree with it and I hope to spend more time in one day.

The coast of Ireland and the Bay of Dublin from the plane.

Bartlett City Clerk at Dublin's City Hall.

Dublin streetscape

Me with my first official Irish beer - Beamish Red Irish Ale
(France and Italy was the wine tour/England and Ireland is the beer tour)

Irish pub with the beautiful Irish flag waving in the bitter wind

Irish pub at night

The most beautiful bartender on the whole green Earth - Michael Brady

My first Guinness in Ireland, poured by Mr. Brady, at Temple Bar

Guinness taps at Temple Bar

Freezing Stefanie outside Temple Bar the next morning

Christ Church in Dublin

View of the Wicklow Mountains from the 360 Gravity Bar at the top of the Guinness Brewery

In anticipation of returning,
Stefanie

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2008-02-13T22:28:00.006-06:00

Yes, these pictures are WAY overdue and there are more to come, but weren't they worth the wait?!

Westminster Abbey

Big Ben

Hello! Red Telephone Booth!

Me and my gracious hostess, Elizabeth, in Hyde Park

Elizabeth and I at Buckingham Palace. It was SUPER windy and the Queen wasn't home.
I knocked, but that same guy at the Emerald City came out and told us to go along our merry way.

Oh yea! Me crossing the one and ONLY Abbey Road! This one's for you Mama!

At Abbey Road Studios

The gorgeous Houses of Parliament and Big Ben looming over the Thames.

No denying I'm in London now!

Just for further proof.

Tower Bridge at night - taken from London Bridge (before it fell down.)

Look Daddy! I'm in TWO hemispheres at once!!!
(For those of you that aren't sure, that line I'm standing over is the Prime Meridian aka 0 degrees longitude.)

Cheerio,
Stefanie

Strolling through London

2008-01-28T12:51:00.000-06:00

It's currently 6:53 p.m. in London and 12:53 p.m. at home. We're getting ready to hit some pubs in West Hampstead, which is a couple of Tube stops from Elizabeth's apartment in Kingsbury.

After beating the crap out of my jet lag by staying up about 28 or so hours with little to no sleep, I got to see London's landmark sights up close and personal.

We started the morning out touring Westminster Abbey, which was just gorgeous and huge. I can't even list the number of famous people buried there - Mary Queen of Scots, Charles Dickens, Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton and Laurence Oliver (Vivien Leigh's husband).

While in the area, I got my first glimpse and listen of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Thames River.

We walked past the heavily guarded 10 Downing Street where Prime Minister Gordon Brown lives. Across the street from the entrance to Downing Street a protest between two Pakastani groups was going on, one for Bhutto and one for Musharraf. It was crazy.

Then we walked over to Trafalgar Square and saw the giant lions and the National Gallery. About 2 p.m. we warmed ourselves in a pub called Moon Under Water with lunch and beer. It was completely fabulous.

Then we walked through Hyde Park, while singing Beatles songs and headed toward Buckingham Palace. The Queen wasn't home so I didn't get to send her our American love. The Palace was not quite as palatial as I was expecting, but it was still seriously amazing to be standing in front of it.

Time for a pint or two!

Cheers,
Stefanie

My island getaway

2008-01-26T11:28:00.000-06:00

So what does a fabulous single girl need to lift her spirits mid-winter???

An island getaway!

Shall I go to Aruba, Jamaica (Ohhh I wanna take ya), Bermuda, Bahamas?

Nope!!!

I'm going to London, baby!!!

For the second time in my 28th year, I'll be heading over the pond to Europe. And while I'm in the United Kindom on holiday, I'll be hoping over to another island nation, the Republic of Ireland. Yes, I'll be spending one night of my weeklong holiday in Dublin!!!

I am unbelievably excited. I can't believe I'm getting the opportunity to see London and to spend it with my best friend Elizabeth, who is living in London for a year while earning her Master's Degree.

While you all sleep comfortably in America, I'll be waking up to brunch in London. I am SUCH a lucky girl!!!

London's calling!
Stefanie

P.S. - I should be updating while across the ocean and might even have a few pics to share.
P.P.S. - This is my 200th post!

Sudden change of perspective

2008-01-22T17:43:00.000-06:00

So my 8-5 work day was ending as usual today, I was headed out when a co-worker asked City Hall's doors needed to be locked since we had a group of high schoolers there and a Board meeting later in the evening. Not sure, I poked my head in the meeting with the high schoolers to ask another co-worker and the Mayor pulled me suddenly.

He says: "The Charter lists two city officials: the Mayor and the City Clerk."
Then he turns to me and continues: "This is Stefanie McGee. She's my City Clerk and She's 28 years old."
I jokingly say: "Good call, Mayor." (Just glad he didn't say 30 and trying to deflect some of the shock and shyness that washed over me.)
He then says to the high schoolers: "She did it. And you can do it."

And then he dismissed me.

The huge smile has not left my face.

I go to work every day and I so often forget what I do and how important it is. And, I suppose, how impressive it is that at 28 years old I'm a city official. And I have been since I was 25 years old. And what I do makes a difference in people's lives.

And better yet, I LOVE what I do. And I LOVE the people I work with. And I LOVE the City I work for.

It's funny how looking at my life through the eyes of someone else can make me feel so proud of my daily contribution.

Gratefully yours,
Stefanie

Because I needed to see these faces...

2008-01-09T22:34:00.000-06:00

Celebrations

2008-01-02T22:27:00.000-06:00

Since many of you have already demanded wedding photos from Monday, here is a taste. I took about 300 photos of pre, during and post wedding events, so it'll take me a few days to plow through them, but here are a few that caught me eye.

I remembered how very much I LOVE to take pictures at the wedding and honestly, I think it shows. There's more to come!

Stefanie

Take a right just before you get to Florida

2007-12-31T00:54:00.000-06:00

Those are the directions to my cousin's hotel here in Alabama.

I'm here in Orange Beach, Alabama in my hotel room overlooking the Gulf Coast. I drove seven and a half hours to be here to take pictures for my cousin's wedding. He will marry his longtime girlfriend on the beach at sunset on New Year's Eve. (Collective "awwww" from the blog world.)

This means I get to combine two of my greatest passions - travel and photography. What a fabulous way to start the new year! Not to mention I get to spend time with family, which is something I hold dear to my heart.

Additionally, since I've got a lot of alone time, I've done a great deal of talking to God. Tonight, he shared with me a sky full of stars I never get to see at home; a half moon so bright it broke through the fog over the Gulf; crashing waves coming out of the darkest night. It was awe-inspiringly beautiful and He made all of it. He intricately thought up each star and each wave and each grain of sand. And He did the same with me.

I asked Him to help me realize how beautiful I am, inside and out, because He created me. This is not only part of my counseling homework, but it's something I need to know in my heart so I can step out in faith and confidence and have an impact on the world. I've got to stop hiding behind my insecurities.

I'm feeling excited and inspired. I know amazing things are in my future because God says He will give me a hope and future in Jeremiah 29:11, which is my life verse. My prayer is that I'm bold enough to make a real difference in people's lives by sharing my faith with them.

I'm not the same person I was nearly 10 years ago before I accepted Christ as my Savior. I'm a much happier person today. I have faith and joy. I still have trials and expect to have many more since that's how Christ strengthens us, but I can rest assured that it is a storm He can handle and will use to grow me closer to Him and use it to open people's eyes to His saving grace.

This post has taken a turn I didn't quite expect, but I've been praying a lot lately and thinking about my faith and my relationship with Christ and how I really don't say enough about it. I guess that's what this blog is for sometimes - to give a peak into my mind and heart.

Faithfully yours,
Stefanie

Winter revisited

2007-12-27T21:46:00.000-06:00

This is most especially for the Mayor, but also for everyone who visits regularly and have noticed my absence. All is well. God is extremely good. I never realized He could heal my heart so quickly, but "with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26)."

When you get tired of the gray and gloom outside your window this time of year, enjoy these winter scenes.

Love,
Stefanie

Change of scenery

2007-12-13T22:43:00.000-06:00

So my ass, or lack there of, has been on this blog long enough.

Here's a couple of pictures that I've uncovered recently that I really love.

Hope washes over me,
Stefanie

Oh Where, Oh Where has my ass gone?

2007-12-03T22:08:00.001-06:00

In case you weren't sure, this is not a story about a donkey.

So the not eating and vomiting and general depression has caused me to lose a noticeable amount of weight. I didn't realize how bad it was until recently when I went to check out my rump in the mirror and discovered, much to my chagrin, that it had disappeared.

What's a girl to do with no booty?!

None of my pants fit right anymore, particularly my work pants. And while I'm not attempting to catch anyone's eye at the Hall, it sure would be nice not to look like I raided my mom's closet and am playing dress up.

There is no more juice in my caboose, people!

I realize that this would be great for a lot of people, but the boys have typically like the booty. In fact, the most recent one who ran like hell, dug it. Now, if he actually came back all he'll find is little boobies and a big nose. Hello!

What's a girl to do?! How does one gain back a booty? I'm fearful that if I put weight back on, all I'm gonna get is dimply, saggy junk in the trunk.

Anyone know of some kind of power drink to add volume to my cheekage without all the fluff? Maybe an ass work out.

I'm at a loss...in more ways than one,
Stefanie

Enough is Enough!

2007-11-28T21:52:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'm done. Officially.

Henceforth, there will be no more bemoaning the loss of Adam David Comer on this blog. I promise. (That's not to say I won't be mopey or depressed on my on time, but what are you gonna do?!)

So from this point forward, I will only discuss, well, anything else.

Today, I officially scheduled the last week of January off to go to London. Yes, I said London. Oh, and Dublin. I shouldn't forget my travels to the Green Isle. So within less than 12 months I will have been to Europe twice. Not bad for a southern girl, huh?

Also, today, I committed to a nine-week Discipleship class, which means I'll be reading the Bible EVERY DAY. I also have a prayer partner and I'm supposed to exercise three times a week and memorize a Bible verse each week.

My biggest concern is the exercise. It's cold, people! How am I supposed to run in the freaking cold?! Ugh. I suppose I'll be headed to Fleet Feet asap for some ear warmers and some kind of body suit to prevent my little body from getting frostbite.

And I'll be spending New Year's in Orange Beach, Alabama with my cousin and his soon-to-be-wife and their two kids. They are getting married at sunset on New Year's Eve on the beach. (Let's all say "Awwwww" together now!) I'll have the distinct pleasure of photographing their wedding. (Please wish us all luck.)

Congrats Josh and Mandy! I'm SO happy for you and SO proud of how far you've come. And I couldn't love all four of you any more!!! (Hey Austin! Hey Aubrey!)

So things are definitely looking up.

God is most definitely good,
Stefanie

S.O.M. (Save Our Mommy)

2007-11-27T22:28:00.000-06:00

People, we need your help. We can't take Mommy being mopey anymore! It's got to stop.

She comes home every day and stares at the tv or the computer. If we have to watch that stupid Steve Carell show one more time, we are never coming out from under the bed again! ("That's what she said.") Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!

She hasn't played string with us since that loser face left. If we could find him, we would so scratch his eyes out and poop in his cereal! He sucks!

Seriously, we don't need a Daddy that doesn't realize how absolutely fabulous our Mommy is. She doesn't need to be sad about someone that doesn't love her as much as we do. Even when she opens the door, WE don't leave.

So we need your help. We need someone to cheer her up, take her out, buy her something pretty. ANYTHING! We just want our Mommy back.

We can't take anymore snuggling or petting or kisses. And she's here too much! How are we supposed to get our party on if our Mommy is home all the freaking time?!

But really, no more Steve Carell. We thought that Carrie Bradshaw show was retarded, but OMG, this new one is just beyond dumb. We want to watch CNN or the Travel Channel. (We don't get out much.) And at the very least, we need to play string and have clean blankies to nap on.

And speaking of naps, it's time for yet another one.

Chance and Sugar

A Day at a Time

2007-11-24T22:16:00.000-06:00

For whatever reason (and I'm not asking) today has been a better day. Wednesday was not great and Friday was a little difficult too. But I'm taking the high points as they come.

I think I just need something to look forward to each day. So that's my goal. To give myself something good every day. It prevents me from feeling so lonely. That and I've had three weeks, as of today, to get used to being alone again. Every day helps. Every email helps. Every phone call helps.

I still miss Adam, but God is good. I know He has something better in store for me.

And I have my first appointment for counseling, so let's all hope that helps a alot.

Thanksgiving was good because it was full of hugs, kisses and laughter from my family. And the two days since have been spent shopping for them. Shopping is good therapy.

Today was a bit brighter and that's all I can really ask for.

Stefanie

Breathing easier

2007-11-19T22:15:00.001-06:00

Today has been a better day. I've been working overtime to stay busy, which has been great for my to do list.

I've been grocery shopping, done laundry, started my Christmas lists, been to both banks, gotten lots done at work and managed to take a full-on nap complete with drooling.

For two weeks now I've dreaded the impending holiday season because Adam and I had talked so much about how we would spend the holidays and how we both thought Christmas was the most romantic time of year. And while I'm still not thrilled at spending the season alone, I think it might be better for me than I first thought.

I'll have too much to do to be too depressed, or so I hope.

AND tomorrow I'm calling to set up a consultation for counseling.

AND I doubled the amount taken from my paycheck to go into my credit union savings to make certain that my house-buying plans become a reality before August 1, 2008.

So I've got some irons in the fire and that makes things more manageable.

I KNOW that things are going to be OK because God's got this under control. I just don't know how they are going to get that way. But I'm just going to push through each day until I find out.

Hoping for Hope,
Stefanie

It's not about me. It's not about me.

2007-11-17T21:30:00.001-06:00

So I keep telling myself that, "God is in control." And sometimes it helps and other times, it just makes me feel punished. But ultimately this situation, this life, this whole big world, is NOT about me. It's about God and his plans.

I read this devotional today, which is from 2 months ago, but so very significant to me right now. I need to be reminded EVERY SINGLE DAY that God means all our circumstances for good and is working to take everything in my life, including this current heartache, and use it for good.

God Meant It For Good
by Jon Walker
“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result.” (Genesis 50:20 NIV)
Joseph’s life was anything but peaceful. It was complicated by youthful folly, broken dreams, and the mean-spirited actions of others. Sold into slavery by jealous brothers. Thrown into prison on false charges. Yet he remained a man remarkable for his lack of bitterness or regret, always seeing God as the “Great Engineer” behind even the worst of circumstances.
In a final confrontation with his brothers, he graciously noted, “You meant it for bad; God meant it for good.”
The theology packed in that statement is astounding. “God meant it for good” means:
You can accept the past – No sin, no action, no choice on your part is too big for God to handle – or too big to be worked for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) Just ask Joseph! Better yet, ask his fearful and famished brothers, who were forced to rely on him for survival.
You can embrace the present – There’s no need to play the “what if” game. The past is gone, and no energy you expend will ever change it. The future is in God's omnipotent hands, so you’re free to focus on the present. Your job is to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, trusting him to forgive the past and transform the future. Martyred missionary Jim Eliot once wrote, “Wherever you are, be all there” – not living in the past and not fantasizing about the future. God wants you in the present because that’s where his grace will flow.
You can look expectantly toward the future – Even if you make mistakes today, God still controls your future. Walking in the Spirit, you can live life to the fullest, unafraid of making mistakes and unconcerned that you may stumble into some terrible circumstance that takes you out of God's control. Even when things appear to be terrible, you can trust that God is working out some divine plan through you.
What does this mean?
· No matter how bad things get – God is still able to bring good out of it. Today, thank God that nothing – no disaster, no delay – is bigger that his ability to turn it into something good and godly.
· Thank God and let go – Thank God that he is sovereign over your past, your present, and your future.
§ Give God the circumstances, disasters, hindrances, hurts, and sins from your past.
§ Give God your current situation, your disasters, hindrances, hurts, and sins of today.
§ Praise God that he can work anything in your future for godly good, that you can walk in confidence that there is nothing anyone can do to you, or anything you can do that will be beyond the reach of God’s grace and redemption.
· Look for God’s hand – Walking by faith means you see God’s hand even in the most difficult of circumstances. You trust his ability and his willingness to transform the bad into godly good. God is not limited by people’s motives. In other words, it doesn’t matter why someone hurt you, God still can transform a deliberate, mean-spirited situation into something for his good.
· What will you allow God to change? – There it is: some situation, or event, or person in your life that, as far as you can tell, was “meant for bad.” How do you think God meant it for good? Ask God what he wants you to do with this situation (event or person). When he answers, do it.

You can get daily devotionals from the Purpose Driven Life website.

By the way, the first thing I'm going to do is go to counseling. Because while everyone tells me this break-up is NOT my fault and has much less to do with me, than with him, I still need to address my jealousy/insecurity issues.

I'll let you know what else I'm supposed to do.

Taking it a day at a time,
Stefanie

Faking it has faded

2007-11-16T22:20:00.000-06:00

So when we got here, I was asked to at least fake being okay Wednesday and Thursday. And I think I did quite well. So well, in fact, that I even fooled myself.

Today was fraught with a resurgence of the sadness. Much like the cold that has blown in over NOLA, I couldn't shake it.

I WANT to be angry. I WANT to think that he's a jerk and I deserve better. But the bottom line is that I miss him. That I WAS happy and now I'm sad. It's that simple. Unfortunately, there's no simple solution. (Well, I guess there is, but my hope is wearing thin.)

Wow, this is one hell of an uplifting post, huh?

And this is why I haven't blogged much lately. Posts about how I'm depressed, lonely and lost are not so much fabulous for the reader.

Forgive me,
Stefanie

Perspective

2007-11-15T22:44:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it takes driving putting more than 400 miles between you and your problem to get some perspective.

Thank goodness for highways,
Stefanie

Oh My NOLA

2007-11-14T22:07:00.000-06:00

It's funny how a new place, a place you love, can bring a smile, not only to your face, but to your heart after what feels like an eternity of sadness.

Today has been my first full day in New Orleans, Louisiana. And if you've read this blog for any length of time or talked to me for more than 10 minutes, you know of my love for this amazing city.

And fortunately, my love for this city has not let me down. After more than a week of extreme depression and misery, I found a smile. I've found a dance in my step.

It's also funny how an evening in a pre-Civil War restaurant with strangers, and a little wine, can make you temporarily forget all the heartache. Oh, how thankful I am for the brief reprieve. I've eaten. I've sipped good wine. I've chatted with strangers about traveling the globe. I've noticed men noticing me. It's quite the needed boost. I just hope it sustains me when I return home at the end of the week.

Today's highlights
* I tried fried alligator and fried oyster for the first time
* I accidentally walked into the men's restroom at the Ernest Morial Convention Center
* I met New Orleans infamous Mayor Ray Nagin

Feeling like I have a purpose and knowing that God is in control has made a world of difference.

No more tears,
Stefanie

NaBloPoMo Day 8/Europe continued

2007-11-08T22:07:00.001-06:00

6 Giugno 2007 continued...

Taken as I wrote this entry
I "may" have needed a shower and clean clothes right here.

Today was one of the most momentous days on our trip. Today we attended a Papal audience in St. Peter's Square in front of St. Peter's Basilica with Pope Benedict XVI.

St. Peter's Basilica

It was truly a moving experience. The Pope welcomed us in six different languages and then gave us his blessing, which carried over to our loved ones, those friends who are sick and any religious articles we had. So my parents have been blessed, the girls, my closest friends, the Mayor and Stephanie Vasofsky, who's been fighting cervical cancer for about two months. I've been thinking about her quite a bit on this trip. She's constantly in my prayers. So, in addition to the audience the Pope toured around the square a couple of times waving to the 45,000 pilgrims from his Pope mobile. We got up at 6 a.m. and got to Vatican City at 8 this morning. The lines for security weren't too bad once they got moving - just chaotic, which is pretty much the norm in Italy. When we got our tickets yesterday at the North American College of Bishops, Sister Maria told us that the Pope would ride around so we should get a seat along the edge.

Sister Maria, from Alabama - I think

And we did exactly that! We got the closest seats to the edge and met a very nice Monsignor, Monsignor Clinger (I'm SO not even kidding!). He helped us figure out the ins and outs of a Papal audience.

That's actually the end of my European travel journal. But I left out Venice and Milan (which was less than fabulous) so I'll just have to recall my best for those of you still reading about my travels across the pond.

Random Nuns - SUCH Vatican groupies!

The Papal audience was fantastic and thanks to the Monsignor and some of his parishioners from PA, we boxed out some over-zealous Italians trying to steal out fabulous aisle seats. Those people were SERIOUS. But if a man of the cloth says it's cool to push them away, then who am I (the little outnumbered Protestant) to say otherwise?

In case you weren't certain, il Papa. And such bling he has.

Oh, random fact, I would SWEAR that the sun is closer to the earth in Rome than it is here in B-town. I thought the sun was actually going to touch us as the Pope went through German, Polish, French, Italian and Spanish to speak to us in English.

Stay tuned for Venice, Milan and news of my upcoming trip to New Orleans.

Laissez les bon temps roulez!
~Stefanie

NaBloPoMo 7

2007-11-07T21:31:00.000-06:00

Winter will be a welcome respite from today. The world will match my mood and I won't feel so out of place.

My new love....

2007-11-06T21:46:00.000-06:00

So, I must confess I LOVE The Office.

I purposely don't watch a lot of tv to ensure that I don't get hooked on a show and then be forced to be home at a certain time on a certain day to watch it. Too late. I now LOVE this show. LOVE IT.

Thank goodness it's not just pretending to be funny.

Still searching...
-Stefanie

NaBloPoMo Day 5

2007-11-05T21:45:00.001-06:00

Since pictures are allegedly worth 1,000 words, I picked some pictures that reflect where I'm at now and where I hope to be soon. Oh, so soon.

As much as my heart is broken, I am equally blessed. And for that I'm thankful.

Searching for the bright side,
-Stefanie

06 Giugno 2007

2007-11-04T21:16:00.000-06:00

6:14 p.m. Rome-Venice/11:14 a.m. Home We are on yet another train - this time to Venice. I think Venice will be absolutely gorgeous, but part of me wishes we were homeward bound. I realize that sounds odd, but it's just hard not to have the comforts of home, people that speak your language and transportation you can depend on for a week and a half.

None of htat is to say, that it hasn't all been more than worth it...way more.

My biggest concern in Venice is hauling my giant luggage around and the potential of it falling into one of the canals. I'm hoping for the best.

Wishing I were anywhere but here,
-Stefanie

NaBloPoMo Day 3

2007-11-03T23:35:00.000-05:00

It's late and I'm tired.
-Stefanie-

NaBloPoMo Day 2

2007-11-02T23:28:00.000-05:00

So in September, I volunteered at a local Airshow with my BFFs. It was insanely hard work as we had to pour people beer, hang out, watch the Airshow for free and taste test the beer all day. Seriously, people! It's a hard knock life.

I think this group was called the The Oracles, but I smartly call them the red planes. Uh huh.

Two of my hot BFFs, Hil and Liz, pouring the beer...at about 9 a.m., like ya do.

The Blue Angels, who kicked serious a-s-s.

This is really what we did all day.
And didn't we do it with such pizazz?! (I titled this picture "Dorks at Airshow.")

-Stefanie-

NaBloPoMo Day 1

2007-11-01T19:51:00.000-05:00

So I've decided to post everyday for the month of November, which is NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month for those of you outside the blogosphere).

I never promised words though, so my goal is to post pictures, lots and lots of pictures, which means I'll be editing and organizing them along the way, which should make my two biggest fans happy (Hey Mama! Hey Mayor!).

Takea and Hunter
taken at the annual pumpkin carving party

Dylan and the forbidden icing
taken just after he said, "Stefanie, Dylan wants you to stop taking his picture!"

Stefanie, the human jungle gym
All Austin needed for Halloween was to jack up my hair!

Stefanie, Aubrey and the chapstick
All Aubrey needed was the chapstick!

-Stefanie-

Blogging hiatus

2007-10-17T08:41:00.000-05:00

After much thought and discussion, I've decided to go on a blogging hiatus, particularly a writing hiatus. I haven't felt especially bloggable lately and I no longer want the self-imposed pressure of blogging or not blogging hanging over my head.

Check back on November 1 to see if I decide to join National Blog Posting Month. If I do, I will do so in pictures only, which was the original intention of this blog.

-Stefanie

Help me Help others!

2007-10-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

So clearly I've all but fallen off of the planet lately. But as most of you already know it's because of the most wonderful guy in the whole wide world, so please don't be too mad at me.

In fact, help me refocus on something other than spending every possible minute with said boy, but helping me raise money for Habitat for Humanity - Memphis and Race for the Cure.

On October 27, I plan on running in the local Race for the Cure to raise money for breast cancer research. God help me on that because I also haven't been running, so that should be interesting. Maybe someone could also volunteer to pick me up in a wheelbarrow after Mile 1 and push me to the finish line.

But I digress, if you liked to help "Save Second Base" follow this link to donate.

If breasts aren't your thing, then how about helping out Habitat for Humanity. Pre-boyfriend, I volunteered for the planning committee of the local Habitat's largest annual fundraiser - the Tool Box Bash. But sadly, I've done excessively little to obtain auction items.

SO, if have a business or know someone who does who might be interested in donating something to the auction, let me know. Or if you have something awesome, like Grizzlies season tickets or a vacation home you'd like to donate or rent out for a week, please email me at mcgeexpress@yahoo.com as soon as possible.

Also, I plan on donating two framed photos I took in New Orleans and could use monetary donations to get that done.

I appreciate whoever is left reading my blog and I'd really appreciate your help. And I promise not to give up blogging for good.

Love and gratitude,
Stefanie

03 Giugno 2007 cont.

2007-10-01T22:24:00.000-05:00

Because I promised another post today and because thanks to that 2-mile run, I've got nothing on my mind, except of course that I paid off my car today (8 months early!!!). Other than that, I'm a blank slate. So here's some more Italian train travel to tide you over until I have the strength to re-live my high school reunion.

03 Giugno 2007 6:59 p.m. Roma/11:59 a.m. Home

Today, we checked out of the adorable Accademia House and said "Ciao Ciao" to Marco. He was such a wonderful host, highlighting all the big Florentine attractions, best restaurants and places to shop. Thanks to Marco, Florence got A LOT of my money.

Our room in Accademia House, Florence, Italy

We took a cab to the Firenze Santa Maria Nouvella train station because our bags are now beyond heavy. We bought two round trip tickets to Pisa and dropped our luggage off at the train station storage. All of this was after a bit of confusion and frustration.

It also took awhile for us to figure out which of the 18 platforms we were supposed to be one since everything's in Italian. By the time we figured it out, we'd missed the train to Pisa. Thankfully, one runs every 30 or so minutes. Unfortunately, the train we missed was the last one that would've gotten us to Pisa on time for our reservation to climb the Leaning Tower at 12:20 p.m.

But since there wasn't anyting I could do and I paid in advance, we got on the next train and hoped for the best.

I don't recall if I journaled about Pisa, so I'll just go ahead and tell you. We lucked out and they let us take the next time to climb the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. That thing is so crooked, people. And it's so surreal. All the sudden, there it is looming before you, tilted about 15 degrees. The street running down the Field of Miracles where the Leaning Tower stands, along with several other leaning buildings (although less-noticeably), is lined with the cheesiest of souvenirs booths.

People from all across the globe are everywhere, many of them posing for the obligatory "Look Mom! I'm holding up the tower" picture.

The lens on my camera makes everything look bigger on the bottom!

Climbing the tower is an adventure in itself. The staircase is not cramped and dark like the ones in Sacre Coeur and Notre Dame, but you can really tell that you are leaning.

It's leaning, I swear. Check out the worn down steps.

As the tower was being built nearly 1,000 years ago, the architects realized after the first three tiers that the Tower was leaning, so they tried to rectify the situation, but building the second three tiers leaning to the other side and then they re-centered the ones above that too.

Hello Pisa! (Even the picture is crooked.)

But it's an amazing feeling to stand atop the Leaning Tower overlooking Pisa and Tuscany, seeing rolling hills and terra cotta topped house with the wind blowing across your face. And, of course, I spit off the top.

That's just how I roll,
Stefanie

MIA report

2007-09-30T22:02:00.001-05:00

Bartlett beat Bolton 10-3, Sept. 7, 2007

I have NOT abandoned the blog! I have apparently temporarily abandoned my sanity and my practicality, but not my blog. Ok, I have temporarily abandoned the blog, but I'm here to reclaim it and my sanity and my practicality and get back to life as normal, sort of.

I'm not here to actually post anything because I've already slept for two hours tonight (Thank God!) and I'm headed to bed where I'll sleep for at least another eight hours. Oh, how I've missed my sleep!!!

There is MUCH to blog about: my high school reunion, the Mid-South Air Show, how I don't have any office furniture at work, my fishing trip with my parents and maybe even the reason I've been distracted from my blog. And of course, we still haven't finished my Europe journal.

So, please actually stay tuned. I'll be back. Tomorrow night I should be back in blogging formation, along with running 2 miles, clean laundry and a tidy litter box. Ahh...the way life should be.

Until tomorrow,
Stefanie

Happy Birthday, Angels!

2007-09-09T22:04:00.001-05:00

September 10, 2003 was the day you both were born. Less than eight weeks later, you adopted me.

After a disappointing trip to the local humane society, I ended up at Love-At-First sight adoption center and the name couldn't have rung more true.

I was looking for one older cat to take in and love and keep me company while I wasn't out covering Hattiesburg-area crime. But I found so much more than I could've ever asked for in the two of you.

I walked into the adoption room to a wall full of kittens all climbing their cages and antsy with anticipation. But the two of you sat calmy and looked at me, waiting for me to return your glance. And then, in quite the choregraphed effort, you both cocked your head to my left and penetrated my heart with your big round eyes.

Sugar

I had no choice. You had chosen me as your mama and I lovingly obliged.

Today, I have been your mama for four years and I have never once regretted adopting either of you. In fact, I am thankful for every day of those 11 miserable months in Hattiesburg because without them I wouldn't have you.

Chance

Chance and Sugar, you have brought so much light and laughter into my life. You have been there for me when I was all alone and in tears on my first Thanksgiving away from home. You have been there when I was scared and worried about my parents. You have danced with me on the happy days and listened to the silly songs I make up to entertain you.

You have comforted me in the middle of the night and warmed me on cold winters nights.

You have been the reason I've come home early on Saturday nights and stayed in bed on nearly every morning.

You are both the best snugglers, the best playmates and the best children a single girl could ask for.

I love you, Chance and Sugar, with all my heart.

Happy Birthday Babies,
Mama

Plagued by kindness

2007-09-09T21:30:00.000-05:00

Today has been an extraordinary day. Not because of anything I did or saw, but because of the outpouring of kindness from members of my church family.

This morning at church I spoke briefly about an upcoming outreach project we are doing with Habitat for Humanity and how blessed I've been to volunteer with Habitat for 12 years. It wasn't anything special or anything I'd thought to much about. I just said what I needed to say.

But after church a gentleman came up to me and gave me such a high compliment. He told me that he appreciates the way I organize the church's outreach projects, how I get right to the point about things without any fluff and my leadership ability. He said he'd follow me anywhere.

I was floored. I was overcome with appreciation that he took the time to tell me those things. I want so much to be a leader and not let myself get in the way of that or of getting my church involved in outreach.

Essentially in just a few sentences, he told me I was coming across the way I had hoped and better. And all I could say was "Thank you." I'm horrible at taking compliments, but this one just took all my defenses away.

And then later this evening, there were MORE compliments! Apparently, God is trying to get me to learn to take one and like it. I think the Mayor and God are involved in some kind of conspiracy.

But I digress, this evening at the monthly's Ladies meeting, we were able to encourage each of our sisters. Encouraging the other ladies was a cake walk, but sitting center circle with a group of women looking at you and telling you wonderful things about yourself in all seriousness, was amazingly difficult for me, but also truly humbling.

And again, I was so encouraged to know that such wonderful things are coming out of me. That the things I hope that I'm doing and that I hope that I am are true and felt.

The ladies told me that I have a wonderful sense of humor, make them look at life from a different perspective, have a passion for outreach and for the salvation of my parents and that I'm willing to walk in faith and break the mold. Essentially, they told me that I make an impact, a positive impact on them. That I am, in fact, encouraging and bright when often I think I'm negative and childish.

My spirits have been lifted.

Blessed to abundance,
Stefanie

Race Day

2007-09-08T07:13:00.000-05:00

Good morning!

It's 7:15 a.m. as I type...on Saturday. The cats are trying to kill each other and I'm trying to wake up enough to run the Memphis Runners Track Club's Women and Running 5K. The race starts at 9 a.m.

My goal is to run at least two of the 3.1 miles and finish in under 40 minutes.

Last year I finished just under 45 minutes and I don't think I came close to running 2 miles. Of course, last year I was also nervous and upset about my grandmother's health and worried about my mama. But this year, I think my mind will be clear and focused on the run before me.

Wish me luck,
Stefanie

**********************************************************************
Post Race Day

This year was definitely better. While I ran 3 miles in under 40 minutes, I didn't do the entire 5K in that time. I think my was 40:45 (I'm subtracting 10 seconds since I didn't cross the start line immediately.)

I did run about 2 of the three miles AND I kept my 13-minute mile pace. I slowed down a bit during the third mile, which prevented me from crossing the finish line in under 40 minutes. I'm blaming it on taking advantage of the water stop just past mile 1. Stupid water. I had this intense pain just under my ribcage. I've learned to run through most of the pain, but this was too much. Even Kanye West singing "Stronger" in my head didn't help.

Nonetheless, I did fairly well and will just improve my time next month at Race for the Cure.

After the race, I decided to stick around and cheer on the last several ladies to cross the finish line, many of whom were completing their first 5K. As I stood clapping and cheering, I saw a familar face running toward the finish line. It was Cindy Wolff, a reporter for the Commercial Appeal who I've known since my days at The Bartlett Express. And she just happened to be running with one of my all-time favorite columnists, Wendi Thomas!!!

After they finished, I did a bit of stalking and walked right up to Wendi and introduced myself. She was really nice, especially since I interrupted her post race orange slices.

So overall, it was a good morning. And I'll just keep pushing until I'm under the 40-minute mark and able to run the whole race.

Optimistically yours,
Stefanie

03 Juno 2007

2007-09-06T22:16:00.000-05:00

6:59 p.m. Roma/11:59 a.m. Home

Right now we are on the train headed to Roma. We finally got the train thing right after mishaps on our way to Firenze and Pisa. Unlike the other trains, this one goes straight from Firenze to Roma without stopping. Its a Eurostar.

The view from our train window is the most picturesque I've ever seen in my whole life. It looks just like it does in the movies or beautiful paintings of Italy. Tall houses with terra cotta colored roofs and cream colored stucco with green shutters dot the tree-covered mountains in the distance. We've passed dozens of vineyards with rows and rows of perfectly straight lines of grapes growing under the Italian sun.

I've seen castles and ancient churches in the distance. There's been green and yellow fields in between these tall, thin evergreens. People have pink and purple flowers growing out of nearly every window and on every roof balcony.

I'm starving right now. I'm in need on some authentic spaghetti or lasagna and another bottle of fabulous European wine. Europe knows how to make good wine, coffee and pasteries for sure.

Ciao,
Stefanie

Going the distance

2007-08-28T22:29:00.000-05:00

Tonight I ran the longest continual run ever! It was nearly two miles...without stopping people! That's so absolutely fabulous. And I actually think I could've kept going!

I've been training for a 5K on September 8 with the Memphis Runners and Track Club and their Women and Running Program. I haven't been as diligent to follow their program, but I have been diligent lately in just getting out and running. The program involves running for a certain number of minutes and then walking and repeating this cycle for a total time. I found over the past two years this doesn't work so well for me, so I just started running for distance and for continual time. And tonight was my best yet.

And what's even more fabulous, is that I felt so great afterwards.

Who knew I had it in me? I wonder what's next.

In His Strength,
Stefanie

2 Juno 2007

2007-08-27T21:37:00.000-05:00

Author's note: This is part of the journal I kept while in France and Italy, on my dream trip.

10:25 a.m. Florence/3:25 a.m. home

Overlooking the Arno River in Florence, Italy

This morning we are sitting at Gran Caffe San Marco in Piazza san Marco having cappucino and pasteries. The breakfast is part of our stay at Accademia House, which is not only a steal, but it's also adorably quaint with its wood-beamed ceilings, tile floors, floor to ceiling windows and soft lighting.

Yesterday, we arrived in Florence about 9:10 a.m., about two hours later than scheduled, which means we missed our 9:45 a.m. reservation to the Galleria dell Accademia, where Michaelangelo's David is. So yesterday afternoon we stood in the hour-long line that wrapped around the building to get in. Fortunately, it was completely worth it. My guidebook said that while very few masterpieces live up to the hype, David does. And it was completely true.

Thus far on the trip we've seen lots of art, Venus de Milo, Mona Lisa, Renoirs and Cezannes, but Michaelangelo's David was truly awe inspiring. We just sat and stared at it for awhile - partly because we were tired from that hour's standing, but mainly because the sculpture is massive and intricate. You can see the veins in David's muscular arms. Not to mention, David's a hottie and he's naked!!!

Michaelangelo's David

*Outside the Accademia, there's a souvenir stand selling aprons, boxer shorts, and postcards with David's "famous package" on display. I really thought about buying one, but I resisted the tacky urge.

We also visited the Uffizi Gallery yesterday, which is ginormous! Thankfully we were able to keep our reservation there and walked in after a less than ten minute wait. I think I've had my fill of religious art for this trip. The Uffizi seemed FULL of religious artwork and I can no longer by wowed by pictures of golder-haloed saints, the Madonna or the brutal crucifixation of Jesus. I don't want to sound sacreligious, but I think I've seen several hundred depictions and we are only Florence.

We also went into the Duomo, which is a huge church built in 1296 (started construction). I got a great picture of a father and daughter lighting a candle here.

We had a fabulous dinner of bread, cheese, pasta and dolce, oh and of course, Chianti at Trattorie XaXa. We sat outside under a closed-in lighted tent and listened to a traveling accordian band play "Somewhere over the Rainbow." Turns out, we are somewhere over the rainbow.

Dreamily yours,
Stefanie

"We were brainwashed." - The Breakfast Club

2007-08-20T22:26:00.000-05:00

Let me be honest - High school sucked.

But with that said, I'm not only going to my 10-year reunion in four weeks; I'm on the freaking planning committee.

I'd like to say I have no idea how this happened, but I do. And I'm glad it did.

In high school, I was a nerd. Well, I was the nerd. And I was a bitch. So I was either a nerdy bitch or a bitchy nerd. Let's go with the latter for convenience sake.

For the eight years after high school, I thought my four years at Bartlett High School were horrible because I was bitchy nerd. I thought all the kids picked on me because I was smart, gawky, awkard and one hell of a fashion victim.

And while all of that is true, it turns out I wasn't alone in my misery. It turns out that other people have bad memories of high school too. And these people weren't all unpopular or dorks or nerds or too skinny or too fat or anything. Some of these people were popular and athletic and fun-loving.

Yea, it's still hard for me to believe too!

To save you from having to read and me from having to type all the back story - I found myself talking to some Class of 1997 alum on a reunion website, and four in particular have since changed my perspective on high school, nerdhood and friendship.

The Breakfast Club

There are five of us who are now "BFF" who didn't know each other 10 years ago. We went to the same high school, walked the same halls and gossiped about the same popular people. But until a couple of years ago, that's where the commonalities ended.

One of us was a cheerleader, one an athlete, one an FFA (Future Farmers of America) girl, one a rebel without a cause and one a nerd. We ran in different circles, dressed in different styles and thought we had absolutely nothing in common.

But we did and we do now. None of us were comfortable with who we were in high school. None of us felt like we fit in. None of us knew that anyone else felt like we did.

It's amazing what time and hindsight can do for you.

I think one of the biggest reasons we've been able to set aside our differences and our baggage is that we were all from different groups and thought we had different perspectives. And while we don't all see eye-to-eye on things, we value the differences now.

It's amazing to me that five such different women could become such good friends and move past the intense misery and pettiness of our years at BHS.

But that growth and these friendships are what motivates me to what to attend my 10-year-class reunion and what makes me want all the other graduates from the Class of '97 to come too. I keep thinking that if I can learn as much from these girls as I have, how much more could I learn from the other people I sat next to in class or brushed passed in the halls.

And there are some people, people I once considered my friends, I'd like to try to get to know again or find some closure. In addition to being a bitchy nerd in high school, I also turned out to be a crappy friend. My junior and senior years I committed the cardinal sin - I put my boyfriend before my friends.

I want to shake my 16-year-old self. "HELLO!!! That's not cool. You don't just drop your friends for some stupid boy!" Who, in fact, turned out to be quite stupid. Maybe I could've even saved myself some heartache had I hung out more with my friends and less with my stupid boyfriend.

But I digress. I have what could possibly be a naive optimism that my 10-year high school reunion could be fabulous, like in Gross Pointe Blank (without all the killing) or Romy and Michelle (maybe including the musical number near the end).

Regardless, I'd like for my fellow classmates to show up with an open mind after checking their baggage at the door. We all went through some rough times in high school and we're all at similar paths in our lives. We have a lot to learn from each other if we could just look past differences and see the value in each other. And even if we can't do that, I'd like a shot at forgiveness.

Cheers to the Memories, both good and bad,
Stefanie

Viva Le King

2007-08-17T22:17:00.000-05:00

I have a confession to make: I'm a closet Elvis fan.

Now you might be asking youself - Why must you hide your love for Elvis, Stefanie? Well, it's because I'm a Memphian. And being both an Elvis fan and a Memphian isn't the most popular combo. Every year, during the week of the King's birth and death, Memphis fills with insane Elvis fans to pay homage to the man, the myth and the legend. Elvi of all shapes, sizes, genders and ethnicities pack the City and cause all non-Elvis activities to cease.

But I can't help myself. That velvet voice. Those swiveling hips. That southern boy charm. What's a girl to do?!

So I would be remiss if I left the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death pass without a small tribute.

I have loved Elvis since I was old enough to dance. At three years old, I remember being at ShowBiz with my daddy and that freaking giant gorilla and his band started singing "Hound Dog," which was three-year-old Stefanie's favorite song. I shook my little hips as best as I could.

And I drove my parents crazy asking them to play my Blue Hawaii cassette tape over and over until it mysteriously disappeared.

Recently, I discovered that my Memaw loved Elvis too. And I would guess that my Papaw had a fondness for the Mississippi-native, as well. And now when I hear Elvis give life to a Christmas song or one of his early recordings in Sun Studios, I can't help but think of them.

Elvis was like no other. And he just so happened to be a Memphian, a Southerner, and a hip-shaker, like me. And let's not forget that unbreakable devotion to his mama!

And while he may have left the building, he's anything but forgotten.

Love me tender,
Stefanie

Still drinking on a train

2007-08-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

So the last time I posted from my Europe journal, I was drinking red wine on the train from Paris to Florence with the old Frenchies. I think I've been on that train long enough, so let's continue, shall we?

31 Mai 2007 continued
9:56 p.m. Paris/2:56 p.m. Home

FYI - We've tried beaucoup wines in Europe so far, many of which have been reds, which I don't usually drink at home, but I have not found a wine yet that I haven't loved. I think it's going to cost me a fortune in the States to find a drinkable wine now, but it'll be worth it. This stuff is absolutely fabulous!!!

Ok, so this young French girl that knows the people in our couchette area came by and asked if anyone wanted a salmon and tomato sandwich and I began speaking a little French, "Non, merci!" (No thank you.) They laughed.

Then she noticed that I was about finished with my bottle of wine and we had a brief, funny conversation about whether I was drunk or had drank the whole bottle. Fortunately, she said the latter. She asked if we were going to Roma or Firenze and I said Firenze. She then asked if I studied art. I said (In English) "No, I study wine, clearly." Cracked everyone up!! Oh, I had to go pee so I left my wine bottle in the bathroom. I've already filled the tiny trashcan with dinner and stuff.

So today, we started out at the famous Avenue des Champs-Elysees. All the world's expensive stores are there - Cartier, Mercedes, Gap. We walked the avenue up to L'Arc de Triomphe. As usual at the major attractions, it was crowded with tourists. We wanted our picture taken in front of L'Arc but had to be extra careful with all the pickpockets and scammers around. A little, sweet Asian girl came up to us and asked if we'd take her picture. She handed me quite an expensive camera, so we thought it'd be fine if she took our picture.

Then, we went to Cartier. And while were were completely and totally out of place, they were kind and had some of the most beautiful jewelry I've ever seen - and expensive too, especially the solitaire diamond rings. I would've taken pictures, but I thought that would make us look even more like hillbillies.

So now we've pulled out our bunks and I'm on the top of three with a drop sheet under me, a small pillow and a flannel blanket. We've turned the main lights off, but we have individual lights for each bunk. This should be an interesting night's sleep. Thankfully, I drank some wine and I've got my Ipod. These bunks are about two to three feet wide and I'm long enough to take up the whole length.

It's now 11:07, so I guess I should try to get some much-needed sleep as we travel through the French countryside to Italy! Bon huit!

Creating my own wind

2007-08-09T22:25:00.000-05:00

After a nearly three-week hiatus, I ran tonight. I went about 1.5 to 1.75 miles. And with the humidity, it was only about 95 degrees...at 9:30 at night.

Seriously, I rock!

Of course, part of the motivation was the ever-increasing urge to get to the potty.

Getting better every day,
Stefanie

Good things come in small packages

2007-08-08T21:41:00.001-05:00

Clearly, I've been a little "not happy," lately. But today was BETTER!!! Wanna know why? No? Ok, well whatever you are gonna hear it anyway.

Today after an eight-month hiatus I got to see my niece, Aubrey. She is by far the cutest, most fabulous child in the whole world and I'm SO not biased because she's not mine, nor is she actually my niece, but that's easier to type than my cousin's little girl making her my first cousin once removed.

But anyway, I got Aubrey hugs today, so really I'm all better. Her big brother, Austin, had his 7th birthday party today at Pump-It-Up.

I was worried that after 8 months of her nearly three-year life that she might not remember me. BUT SHE DID!!! She was playing and her eyes lit up and she yelled, "STEFANIE!" And I just melted. And then came the hugs and then the endless hold me upside down time. It was all excessively fabulous is all ways. In fact, her grandma and great-aunt showed up after me and wanted to hold her, but her constant response- STEFANIE!!! I rock!

Who could resist that precious little face?!

*******************

Later this evening, I went to McAlister's for dinner cuz I'm single and only have bologna and Powerade and, of course, wine in my fridge and I was hungry. So I order my Cheddar Potato Bread Bowl and am sitting in wait for my food, and text messaging (like all the kids are doing) and this little girl just wonders over and snuggles up to my arm and then wonders away.

Now I could easily just say the kid was overcome with delirum at the ice cream she was about to get and thought I belonged to her. But I think kids have some kind of six sense, like the kitties, and know when you have a boo-boo on the inside. And that's so refreshing, because really, I don't like for people to know about my boo-boos, and I need a snuggle or a hug every now and then to get me through.

On an Aubrey-high,
Stefanie

Tangled up in you

2007-08-07T22:43:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I was a tangle of rage, depression and the intense desire to run. I wanted to take my bar stool and hit him over the head and that was before I ordered my first drink.

If it wasn't for my Faith, I don't know what I'd do on a night like tonight.

I realize in the grand scheme this is foolish. I know one day I'll look back and laugh. I know SO many people, and kitties, who love me and will see me through this. But right now...right now I'm just, just tangled up in pain and anger.

Stages of grief

2007-08-06T21:56:00.001-05:00

When you lose something valueable, you have to run through the stages of grief to get over and through whatever it was you lost.

What I lost was never actually mine, but it was so close. So very, very close. Or so I thought.

I had invested six years in what I lost. Six years of thought and hopes and dreams. Of course, the hopes and dreams were all to be played out in the future. A future I'll never have. A future I've always wanted, but never admitted to.

I've waited for what I lost, so at least I don't have to wait any longer. I know, without a doubt, that what I lost is gone. Of course, it's weird to say that because I never had it. I just thought I did.

And that's why I'm angry today. Last week, I was sad. Oh so very sad. And the weeks before that, I was confused, but hopeful. And worst of all, I've been vulnerable. And I suppose I still am since I've still got work through all five of the stages of grief.

I'm angry because I felt like I've been lead on, lead on down a path I put all my faith and hope in. Lead down a path that never actually existed. That never could've existed. But I saw it. I saw the whole damn path. It was covered in flower petals and there was sunshine. There was even a light breeze. There was laughter and comfort. It was perfect. Absolutely perfect.

You know why it was perfect? Because we were the perfect couple. Everyone said so. Everyone's said so for years. Everyone said we looked perfect together.

Perfect, huh?

In fact, he even said he couldn't imagine a girl more perfect for him than me, but we should just be friends.

Well, isn't that just PERFECT.

And now I'm wondering why. Why he let me go on? Why didn't he say something sooner? Why did I have to ask to find out that I'm perfect, but just not the one.

So that's where I've been and that's where I'm at. It's rare that I lay it all out here like this, but part of me wants to record this, part wants to get it out and part feels like I owe some of you an explanation as to where I've been. And hopefully, someone someday will read this and not feel so alone in their predicament.

And since I rarely acknowledge any sort of weakness or humaness, please none of you mention it either. I don't need a pity party. I already had one last week.

Imperfectly yours,
Stefanie

I'm not dead, only crippled

2007-08-01T22:54:00.000-05:00

So, I'm out here and alive. I've got things to say, just not ready to say them.

But, if anyone out there knows anyone or is anyone who'd like two tickets to the Chris Isaak concert at the Memphis Botanic Gardens, please let me know. I'm willing to let them go for less than you'll get them over at Ticketmaster.

31 Mai 2007

2007-07-09T20:52:00.000-05:00

This "could" be the post where I drank through writing it. Good luck making any sense out of it!

9:56 p.m. Paris/2:56 p.m. Home

I get extra creative with wine!

So we are on our first train trip. I've had nearly a quarter liter of wine and I'm feeling pretty good. The wine was necessary since there are six of us in the room the size of my bathroom - four of them are French and old. There are like 4,000 young people on this train and we got stuck with all the old people.

Gotta love a train ride...with your own bottle.

I've got the Rolling Stones singing Time is On My Side playing in my Ipod. This song always reminds me of a certain someone who I may or may not be dating and don't want to ruin it on my blog. (Stop with all the pressure. Gah!)

One of the four Frenchies in our sleeping area is Dominque. I have NO idea what we would've done without him. Our bags are gigantic and heavy and he helped us hoist them above the door and out of the way. He also knows about train travel, Paris and Florence. He told me how to get to the food service car and how the beds work. (Everyone thank him for me getting the wine!)

Dominque is on the left. The old Frenchie dude is on the right. He snores.

Walking to the food service car, which is about four cars away, was quite an experience. I felt like a drunk handicap person and that was before I had any wine today.

The French countryside is just how I imagined it - beautiful! Rolling hills, tiny houses all close together with blue and brown shutters, and with those shingles that you see on Spanish-style homes (known to sober people as terra cotta tiles.)

FYI - I've given up trying to drink my 375ml of Cabernet Sauvignon from the little plastic cup they provided; I'm not drinking straight from the bottle. (But please notice my correct usage of a semi colon in my increasingly sedated state!) Dominque laughed at me. :) He has been living with an Italian woman for a year in Florence. He works for the railway in Paris and stays in Florence on the weekends.

It looks like I"m going to have to sleep in my clothes tonight. I gave up my bottom bunk for one of the older French ladies who has knee problems. At this point, I can relate - I swear we've climbed every damn step in Paris. On Sunday, we climbed to the top of Sacre Coeur, on Monday, the top of Notre Dame, on Tuesday, the Eiffel Tower and today we climbed down to the Catacombes.

This is the sign before you enter the Catacombs. It says "Stop. Here is the Empire of Death."

These are some of the six million Parisian skeletons found in the Catacombs. In the late 1700s, the cemetaries become overcrowded and disease ridden, so city officials moved the bodies to the empty quarries. And now you can tour them. (Maybe I am a little morbid. You wanna make something of it?)

Soberly yours,
Stefanie

God Bless America!

2007-07-02T22:12:00.003-05:00

Three years ago tomorrow, July 3, will be the third anniversary of my journey home.

Three years ago I was living in a one-bedroom apartment in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 300 miles from home and my parents. I was lonely, depressed and miserable in a job I thought I would always love.

My immediate boss targeted me for daily harsh criticism. I had what I still believe to be mini heart attacks as at 25 years old my left arm would go numb, my head lightheaded and pain would shoot through my chest. At least once a week, I could be found curled up in the fetal position in the bathroom praying to be anywhere but The Hattiesburg American.

I interviewed for a job at my alma mater that would be less money than the meager journalist's wages I already scraped by on. When I wasn't at work interviewing police officers or crime victims, I was at home, in the dark, scouring the internet for a way home, a way out.

And then one day, my world turned upside down. The light I'd been praying for flooded the darkness.

I made an unscheduled trip home during the Fourth of July weekend and decided to go see Bartlett's fireworks, in hopes of running into old friends and reconnecting with some old contacts.

I couldn't have imagined how blessed I was about to become. I ran into the Mayor of the Bartlett, who I'd gotten to know (or thought I had) during my two years as Editor of The Bartlett Express. Actually, he ran into me literally and on purpose.

We chatted and he asked when I was coming home. My answer, "As soon as I find a job." Moments later, he told me of a need he had in his office and asked if I was interested.

Interested?! God had not only heard my prayers, but was going to give me a raise!

Less than a month later, the Mayor swore me in as City Clerk for the City of Bartlett.

I was home. I was happy. I was more than grateful to the Mayor and to God. And I have been ever since.

Not a day has gone by that I have not thanked God for bringing me home, where I belong. For blessing me with a job I truly love. For taking the terrible stress and fear out of my life and replacing it with an amazing boss, fabulous friends and co-workers and an endless supply of opportunities. Not to mention living just 5 minutes from the two people I love more than anyone or anything in the whole world, my parents.

And of course, I owe a lifetime of thank yous to the Mayor for taking a change on a frumpily-dressed, trouble-making 25-year-old girl.

Eternally grateful and infinitely blessed,
Stefanie

An unforgettable, allegedly edible experience

2007-07-01T22:28:00.000-05:00

So before I wrap up the Paris portion of this trip, I HAVE to tell you about the duck experience.

Before I left for Europe, I had convinced myself that I would be adventurous in my choice of cuisine. And boy was I!

On May 27 (the day we visited Sacre Coeur), we decided to have dinner in the Marais (a hip part of the city) after checking out the Place de la Bastille. The prison no longer exists, just a monument of remembrance.

So I found an inexpensive dinner place that served tartines, open-faced sandwiches, that the guidebook author raved about. I checked out the menu and decided to get something different, but not too different. I ordered a tartine with "country ham, goat cheese and walnuts."

Doesn't sound completely off-the-wall, right? WRONG.

Yea, that red stuff is the duck meat and that's a huge chunk of fat on it!

In France, country ham equals smoked duck, which is actually RAW duck. People, it was gross. And to make things worse, goat cheese in Paris is the stinkiest thing I'd consider putting in my mouth. Granted, the cheeses get much stronger and I'm sure much more horrible, but this took the cake for me.

I took about three bites and gave up. Thankfully, Becky let me have most of the red wine to wash away my sorrows.

Apparently being grossed out gives me a double chin. Who knew?!

After "dinner," we wandered around the Marais, enjoyed some delicious Parisian ice cream and took pictures of the condom machine in the Metro. It was a full night, indeed.

Still shuddering,
Stefanie

Worth at least 3,000 words

2007-06-28T22:29:00.000-05:00

Enjoy...I certainly did,
Stefanie

29 Mai 2007 continued

2007-06-26T12:37:00.000-05:00

Paris is gorgeous. I absolutely love it! Tonight, Becky and I went to un fete des voisins, which is literally translated a party of neighbors for the apartment complex where Depesh lives. (In case I haven't mentioned Depesh in the journal - he works at the front desk at our Hotel. He's originally from Nepal and takes American business school classes.)

He invited us to the fete des voisins and we got to try homemade French food, quiche and tartes and several French wines, both rouge et blanc. Everything was fantastique.

We talked to real Parisians in both English and a little French. We met Justine who is 27, just purchased her own 35 sq. meter aparment for 35,000E and is a yoga professor. She was my kind of girl - fun, outgoing and had a great sense of humor.

She said she was a vegetarian and ate a little fish, but rarely flesh. She realized this was NOT the best English translation (my laughing may have helped) and then make a joke about only eating flesh (human) at Christmas. It was hilarious (maybe you had to be there...and had some wine) and nice to see that the French's reputation for not having a sense of humor is not always true.

We also met a French woman named Sophie who works for an interior design magazine as a photo editor. She was dressed quintessentially French and was just adorable. We talked to her and Depesh about the French's reputation of being guarded and of Americans being too aggressive.

Apparently the world sees Americans as being too direct. We tend to get right to the point, instead of being social. In Franc, being social is the top priority. In many work places, you can only work a maximum of 35 hours per week, which explains why they have time to take long lunches and dinners.

Also, the French cling to a few close friends that they get to know over years, whereas they see Americans as having more shallow relationships with lots of people.

After the Eiffel Tower, we walked to the Musee Rodin where we got to see the Thinker, the Kiss and the Gates of Hell by Rodin. His sculptures were beautiful and moving.

Thinking of Paris,
Stefanie

29 Mai 2007

2007-06-25T21:53:00.000-05:00

12:10 a.m. Paris/ 5:10 p.m. home

I'm sitting in bed as Becky reviews her Italian (God help us!) It was a long, tiring, but good day.

Today is the day that accomplished my number one goal in life - I spit off the top of the Eiffel Tower. It was absolutely fabulous. It was worth walking up all 668 steps to the second floor, the crowds, the confusion, the rude tourists and the bitter wind. And the 28 years of waiting.

The moment of truth - the spit!

I still can't believe I actually made it to the top of the most beautiful sight in the most beautiful city in the whold world. My legs hurt and my feet stung, but it was more than worth it. Even as I was walking up the steps, I kept telling myself taht this was it - the moment I'd been dreaming of and waiting for my whole life. It finally came true and even now as I think back on it, I can hardly believe it.

As I read over this entry, even days after I wrote it, It struck me as negative. I think that's because I wrote it after three days of climbing hundreds of steps and walking miles and miles. I think I was just tired.

But honestly, this has to be the best day of my life. I turned my life's dream into an accomplished goal. And I did it with the love and support of my friends and family. I realize that this goal is not as lofty as walking on the moon, finding a cure for AIDS or even raising good kids, but it's been a dream for so very, very long. So long in fact, that I began to feel it was do or die time. And thanks to those I love, the sense of empowerment I've gained from running and my faith in God, I was able to make my dream a reality.

It's honestly just so surreal. Even now looking back at the pictures and typing in the journal entries.

And now I've got to dream bigger, better and broader. And I hope each of you that reads my blog does the same.

Dream a little dream,
Stefanie

28 Mai 2007...the end

2007-06-24T22:04:00.001-05:00

As we got on the boat, it began to rain (are you sensing a theme here?) Rain or wind or chill was NOT about to stop us from enjoying the immense beauty of Paris...and the Heineken helped too!

So Becky took my camera since her's had died and I videotaped the trip. My focus was pretty much the Eiffel Tower since, well, that's what it was all about for me. But the river and city didn't disappoint and we got to see the Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Hotel de Ville (Paris' City Hall), the Grand Palais, the Place de la Concorde where Marie Antoinette met the guillotine and several other famous Paris sites.

After the tour, we hopped the Metro over to the Centre Pompidou to see the famous building with its guts on the outside. All the building's pipes, wires, everything surrounds the exterior of the facility which houses cinemas, a library, sporting events and a modern art museum.

We jumped back on the Metro, grabbed at least one connecting train and headed back to Rue Cler, where we had dinner at Cafe du Marche. This place was infinitely better than dinner the night before. No cold duck for me! (To be explained in the next post.)

I had roasted poulet (chicken) avec mashed potatoes and red wine; Becky had cooked duck with scalloped potatoes. We had finally experienced wonderful French cuisine.

After we finished the bottle of wine, we went to bed to rest for our climb to the second floor of the one and only Eiffel Tower.

All alone with the memory,
Stefanie

P.S. - If you want to see more pictures, click on the Flickr feature at the upper right corner of my blog.

28 Mai 2007...

2007-06-21T21:37:00.000-05:00

The rain died quickly and we hoofed it over to the Ile de St. Louis. We got to the Notre Dame and walked right in since it was later in the afternoon. Other than when I first (and second and third) saw the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame was my first "wow" moment. I just wondered around with my mouth hanging open staring at the enormity and detail of the centuries old church. The stain glass windows were huge with vibrant colors.

In several areas, visitors could light a candle for a donation. Underneath a nearly life-size crucifix, I lit a candle and said a brief prayer for my parents.

I wandered around the dimly lit, spacious church snapping pictures of the windows and saints. Fortunately, there wasn't a mass going on at the time, but it looked like Mass was still said there regularly. An organist played continually as we toured.

We didn't stay in Notre Dame too long because we knew the bell tower climb closed at 6 p.lm. and it was getting close to that time. We hussled around to the side where gargoyles stuck out every few feet, spitting the remnants of the day's rain on our heads.

We jumped in line right in front of the "End of the line for the day" sign and hoped for the best. We got lucky - one of the many, many times on this trip. Sevearl more people got behind us and we waited to climb the hundreds of steps as the wind howled around us and the church bells marked the half hour.

We paid our 7.50E a piece and began our ascent. Yet another tiny, steep, spiral staircase. We had to stop fairly often to catch our breath and let our legs stop burning for a second. (I have NO idea what I would've done had I not started running last year.)

The views from the top of Notre Dame and every level in between were gorgeous. It started to rain pretty hard and the wind was blowing good, but we trudged one. It felt like being on top of the world. It was beautiful and even a bit romantic to overlook Paris on top of Notre Dame in the cold rain.

We climbed the bell tower where Quasimodo slept and then they ushered us down because we were the last people in the tower. We closed the place down!

Becky and I and Hazel and Andy from Miami made the day's final descent down the cathedral's well worn steps. We stopped at the bottom to let our legs rest and chat with Hazel and Andy. It had stopped raining during the time it took us to walk down all those steps.

Andy and Hazel

Hazel and Andy had been in France for about a week touring the Loire Valley and Burgandy. Turns out Andy was the planner in their friendship and Hazel was the laid back one.

We said goodbye and nice to meet yous to our Notre Dame friends ,took a couple of goofy pictures in the square in front of Notre Dame and took off in search of Sainte Chapelle. We figured it'd be closed, which it was, but we weren't able to take a look at it because it seems to be in the center of several buildings.

So we wandered around in search of a Bateaux Parisian stop, which is a boat that stops all along the Seine at Paris' most famous sites. We got kinda turned around and were completely exhausted, so we plopped down in a tiny square on Pont Neuf over the Seine. Right near us was a sign that said Vendette des Ponts or something like that. Vendette des Ponts turns out to be an even better boat tour than Bateaux Parisian, according to my guidebook, so we slowly made it down the flight of stairs and checked out the situation.

We had about 40 minutes to wait, so we bought the largest Heinekens I've ever seen and sat down on the dock to wait for the pain in our feet and legs to subside. It didn't take long. It turned out we were pretty thirsty.

A demain,
Stefanie

28 Mai 2007 continued

2007-06-20T22:03:00.000-05:00

On the opposite side of the garders from teh Louvre is Musee L'Orangerie. The rain stopped and allowed us to dry off as we stood in the lengthy line for the museum. Then we got to see eight of Monet's most beautiful paintings - the Water Lillies. Two naturally-lit rooms held four paintings each. The paintings were at least 15-feet wide and were glued to curved walls. Monet intended for the rooms to allow people to reconnect with nature in an urban environment.

And they were so beautiful. He used such rich colors and the images were so serene.

The lower level of the museum contained some lesser known Renoirs and Cezanes, where were cool to see, but greatly overshadowed by the Water Lillies.

We left the Musee L'Orangerie in search of food. And since Notre Dame was next on the list, we headed to the fourth arrondisment. We pretty much would've eaten anything we were so hungry by this time. So we stopped at this wacky place in the tourist area and overpaid for bland food, but we weren't about to eat our shoes anymore, so it was OK. This short little Middle Eastern guy come out as we were looking at the sandwiches in the deli case. He shook our hands and told us how much he liked Americans.

(Pretty much everywhere we went, people knew we were Americans even before we opened our mouths to speak. )

He easily talked us into two Croque Monsieurs (an odd ham and cheese sandwich with the cheese on the outside of one side), french fries and cokes. It was the first Coke we'd had since leaving the States.

We were going to eat while walking to Notre Dame, but it began to pour down rain as we were leaving, so we sat outside under a small awning and scarfed our food down and watched it rain.

*Sorry, tonight there will be no pictures since I need to catch up on my beauty sleep. But check back tomorrow in this post for pics.

Stefanie

A brief, nostalgic interruption

2007-06-20T13:50:00.000-05:00

This is a Meme about Your Senior Year of High School and I just couldn't resist!

1. Who was your best friend? My boyfriend.
2.What sports did you play? Not a one.
3. What kind of car did you drive? 1995 Red Saturn SC-1 that was given to me for Christmas when I was 15 with a big red bow on the showroom floor.
4. It's Friday night, where were you? With my boyfriend.
5. Were you a party animal? Goodness NO!
6. Were you considered a flirt? Not even a little.
7. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? Uh uh.
8. Were you a nerd? I was not a nerd. I was THE nerd.
9. Did you get suspended/expelled? Please refer to #9.
10. Can you sing the fight song? Sadly no, but I do remember the tune.
11. Who was your favorite teacher? Mrs. Gaines, my 11th grade Honors English teacher. She helped me fall in love with American Literature.
12. What was your relationship status? See #1 and #9. Very together.
13. School mascot? The Mighty, Mighty Panther!
14. Did you go to Prom? Junior year? Yes and yes.
15. If you could go back and do it over, would you? That would be a big H-E-double hockey sticks NO!
16. What do you remember most about graduation? Wishing I were Valedictorian, instead of lowly number 9.
17. Where were you on senior skip day? Most likely at good ole Bartlett High.
18. Did you have a job your senior year? My job was being a student, which is why my license plate was 4POINT0.
19. Where did you go most often for lunch? the senior portable to eat with aforementioned boyfriend.
20. Have you gained weight since then? Yes, thankfully. I was crazy skinny in high school.
21. What did you do after graduation? Went to dinner with my parents and said boyfriend. Then I attended Christian Brothers University for four of the best years of my life.
22. When did you graduate? May 22, 1997
23. Who was your Senior prom date? Neil Weaver, THE boyfriend
24. Are you going to your 10 year reunion? Yes Sir! I've even bought a dress and shoes, already.
25. Who was your home room teacher? I have NO idea.
26. Who will repost this after you? Probably no one since all my BFFs have done this already.

Important note: Previously mentioned boyfriend has been gone for YEARS and life has greatly improved since 1997.

28 Mai 2007

2007-06-19T12:47:00.000-05:00

This entry was written days after the actual events, on a train somewhere in Italy.

I have yet to write about our busiest day in Paris, probably because we were so absolutely exhausted afterward. We started the morning off at the Louvre. The line was long, but went pretty quickly after we got through security, thanks to the automated ticket machines.

The Louvre is the largest museum ever! There is no way you could see all the art there. It would take a week to so just to look at everything they had. So, since it was jampacked with people from all over the world, we decided to hit the highlights and move on. So we headed straight for the Mona Lisa and on the way saw the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The Mona Lisa wasn't as small as I've heard it was, only in comparison to the mammoth Italian paintings surrounding it. The Mona Lisa is about the same size as a painting you'd hang in your house and it's hung on a huge wall all to itself. It was so amazing to be able to stand in front of it and just stare at the painting that has been talked about and studied for centuries.

As we left the room the Mona Lisa hangs in, Becky overheard an Italian father say to his son in English, "that is Mister Jesus in the middle," referring to this 50-foot tall painting of the Last Supper hanging on the wall. (Not the Last Supper by Da Vinci)

After the Louvre, we had to figure out how to exit. With hundreds upon hundreds of people buying tickets, entering the building and finding their way into the museum, it was quite a task. Finally, we walked up the stairs under I.M. Pei's famous glass pyramid and walked out its doors into the rain.

We rain jacketed up and proceeded to stroll through le Jardin du Tullieries.

How DO I manage to look SO sexy in Paris?
That lump on my back is not a souvenir from Notre Dame, but my backpack.

It was quite a soggy walk, but it did help to alleviate the crowding we'd experienced in the Louvre. By the time we go to the end of the gardens, our pants were soaked, but our spirits were not dampened.

That's my "I'm making love to the camera" face. Please notice the top left of the picture.

I wrote at least four pages about this day, so I'll have to stop for now and pick up tomorrow.

27 Mai 2007

2007-06-18T22:12:00.000-05:00

9:13 a.m. home/4:13 p.m. Paris

I feel like I've shaken the jetlag and am fitting into Paris nicely. My French is coming back to me enough to get us by.

So far today we've gone to Sacre Coeur, where we climbed the dome and got to see a view of the whole city. It was windy, cold and rainey, but it was absolutely fabulous in all ways. We could see the Eiffel Tower shooting towards the sky as a cloud hung over Paris.

We got to go in Sacre Coeur, but we're asked not to take pictures, which sucked because it was absolutely beautiful and I wanted to show my mama.

While we were inside, a mass was going on. The choir was singing in French and Nuns were intermittently speaking in English. It was beautiful and moving to be there during mass, but odd that they would allow hoards of people to run literally around the core of the church during a holy ceremony.

The stain glass windows told stories and I got a picture of one of them behind a statue of the Virgin Mary holding Baby Jesus.

Candles were lit all through the church. For 10 Euro (E) you could light a large candle and for 2E you could light a teeny one.

We climbed the smallest, tallest staircase I've ever seen to get to the dome of Sacre Coeur. It spiraled up and up. My thighs began burning way before we got to the top.

After Sacre Coeur, it started to rain and we ran to a nearby patisserie and got cafe au lait and pain du chocalat. It was amazing. We stood in a bus stop in Montmartre to take shelter from the wind and rain and ate and drank and watched the Parisians go by. A man sat there with us and ate two cups of chocolate pudding with a camping spoon. He had just bought groceries, which he carried in his own floweredy bag.

This morning, we went to an open fruit store and bought an orange and banana. Then we went to a tiny grocery store and bought 0.5 litres of water for 0.18E.

We also saw the two remaining windmills in Montmartre, drank Muscadine wine standing at a French bar, Le Refuge, and then rode the Metro back to the hotel to put on shoes and socks and make another plan for the evening.

Dreaming of my fairyland,
Stefanie

26 Mai 2007...later that day

2007-06-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

2:53 p.m. home/9:53 p.m. Paris

We've officially arrived in Paris. I've seen the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the top of Sacre Coeur et Le Seine. (Arc de Triomphe and Sacre Coeur from a distance)

We are currently sitting at our second sidewalk cafe of the day. We chose to have coffee and dessert for dinner. We're jettlagged and in Paris. Why not indulge?

I'm loving listening to people speak French and try to catch a word or two I recognize. Earlier today I went into a newspaper store and carried on the whole (small) transaction en Francais! I was so very, very proud of myself. Im working hard to use the French I remember and it's really paying off. No one has been rude so far. In fact, I think they are impressed that I've even trying... and maybe cute with my American accent.

Right now, couples are on all sides of us, drinking beer (Stella Artois) and ordering dinner and enjoying their Saturday evening in Paris.

I had an cafe au creme, mousse au chocolate et crepe au sucre pour dinner. The chocolate mousse was the best thing ever. It was absolutely heavenly.

Paris has the world's best coffee!

Paris looks just like it does in pictures. There's no mistaking we're in Paris, France!

*It's 10 o'clock here and it's not quite dark yet.

Dreams really do come true!

Eternally grateful,
Stefanie

26 Mai 2007

2007-06-16T22:25:00.001-05:00

Throughout the trip, I tried to jot down my thoughts and memories of the day or days events. Some of it I captured; some of it I'll have to fill in as I go. What I wrote while on the trip will appear in italics.

2:50 a.m. home/9:5o a.m. Paris

It's half an hour until we land in Paris. I woke up somewhere over Ireland after a shaky four or so hours of sleep. Fortunately I slept most of the flight over the Atlantic Ocean.

At one point the plane felt like it just dropped. It took me a few minutes to mentally recover from that.

I've gotten to see Ireland and England out of my window. I know it's cliche, but England really does look like a patchwork quilt of colors and shapes.

I woke up with the 3 Doors Down song "Landing in London" in my head. Although as I write this I'm actually over Europe, it's still so very, very had to believe that I'm really here. That I'm actually going to see the Iron Lady today. That my life's dream will be realized in minutes. No longer a lifetime's wait.

As I glance up at the map of the plane as it hones in on Paris, my heart is beginning to beat faster and harder....

3:39 a.m. home/10:39 a.m. Paris

It's official. I'm in Paris, France. But it's still surreal. We flew right out of a cloud and landed at Charles de Gaulle airport which is several miles north of the city center.

Of course, they are giving all the directions in French, so that should clue me in.

So after some confusion and frustration in figuring out the under construction airport, NOT going through French customs, nearly NOT getting my passport stamped and tracking down our hotel shuttle, we were on our way to Grand Hotel Leveque on Rue Cler.

Arc de Trimophe at the end of the Champs Elysees

As we hurled through the streets of Paris, packed into a Mercedes Benz shuttle van, this was my first glance of Paris. Of what I've always known of Paris. Of the Paris I've seen in the dozens upon dozens of books I've dreamed over. Of the Paris I had come to fall in love with.

Moments later I caught a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower. My eyes instantly filled with water. In fact, as I type this now, the tears are returning.

Grand Hotel Leveque, 29 Rue Cler, Paris, France

We arrived at 29 Rue Cler exhausted and exhilarated. We checked in with ease and then took turns taking what we later referred to as the Wonka-vator up to the third floor. The hotel's sole elevator is made of glass and is just large enough for one American and her oh-so-large luggage.

Cheese shop right outside out hotel, as in steps from the front door

I've got some cheese stories for later, but the bottom line is the French like their cheese STRONG. And there is no way to capture that in words or pictures. But suffice it to say, our stuff took on the smell of French cheese after five days of it wafting into our room overlooking this lovely cobblestoned pedestrian market street.

Although I journaled more than once on May 26, you'll have to wait until tomorrow to hear about the remainder of my first day in the City of Light.

Dreamily yours,
Stefanie

Stats on Europe

2007-06-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

Two girls

15 days

Three countries (Vatican City is its own country)

Six cities

1,000 works of art

1,613 pictures

Yes, folks. I, alone, took 1,613 pictures. And the moral of the story is, don't hold your breath to see them all any time soon.

But here's what I've come up with. I've decided to share my journal on the same day of the week it's about over the next two weeks. Hopefully, this works out for all of us.

So Saturday, you'll get the first installment of my trip to Europe.

But since I know you are all waiting on pictures, I'll leave you with three random ones to whet your appetite.

Brief update from America

2007-06-11T21:07:00.000-05:00

Hello from Bartlett, Tennessee! Home sweet home.

While I absolutely LOVED France and Italy, I've loved coming home just as much. There are just certain comforts of home, like knowing how the toliet works and eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in your clean pjs that no amount of culture or perspective can replace.

In the coming days and weeks, I'll be updating the blog with excerpts from my travel journal and photos of my trip.

As of today, I'm tired from wacky sleep patterns and worrying over my mom's hernia surgery, which I'm overjoyed to say went well and she's at home recovering as I type. God is good!

It's possible I'll update again about 4 or 5 this morning, which is when I've been waking up since I've been home. Not sure if that's jet lag or just the residue of excitement from both the trip and being home.

I've spit off some of Europe's tallest, most famous structures. I've bought some high fashion items. I've drank some of the world's best wine. And I've dined on some amazing cuisine.

And I'll share it all soon.

But for now, I'll just wish you all a Buona Sera, as I am heading to bed before 21:30.

Officially a world traveler,
Stefanie

Buongiourno from Roma!!!

2007-06-06T07:28:00.000-05:00

So I had a moment out of my European Holiday to say hello to my faithful readers, IF I have any left since it's been forever since I last posted. But forgive me! I've been in Europe for a week and a half and have been SO busy, I've barely eaten and showered less - although I've had my fair share of vino!

We went to the Papal audience in St. Peter's Square this morning. I got to Pope Benedict XVI up close and got some amazing pictures. Yesterday, we toured the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, which was just unbelievably amazing.

I could go on and on, but I'll reserve that for when I'm clean, well rested and in America.

This afternoon we are headed to Venice and then Milan Friday. We'll wake up in Paris on Saturday on the train and then fly back to the States.

Life is good, no?

Ciao,
Stefanie

Interview Question 3

2007-05-20T21:35:00.000-05:00

Please forgive the extreme lapse in this blog. I've been busy turning 28, celebrating one of my dearest friends college graduation, another friends' upcoming birth of her first child, oh, and getting ready for my weekend plans...a trip to Paris, France (like ya do!)

So mini review: Casey asked me five interview questions and I'm finally getting back to them, so she doesn't kick my butt.

If you could trade bodies with anyone in the world (celebs included) whose would it be and why?

Ok, I've actually been thinking about this and I have a couple of answers.
Most obvious answer - Vivien Leigh. She is the most beautiful woman to walk the face of the earth and brought to live the greatest literary character of all time, Scarlett O'Hara.

Possibly more shocking answer: Marilyn Monroe. The woman was a legend in her own time and is still a sex symbol today. Who doesn't wanna be a legendary sex symbol?!

If I really had to only have one answer: Walter Kronkite. (Yes, I realize this is strange.) One of the reasons I loved journalism so very much was the stories I got to tell and the adventures I got to take. I watched a special about Kronkite's life Friday night and he TRULY lived life. He covered World War II and Vietnam; interview JFK, Nixon, Johnson; he reported Neil Armstong's first steps on the moon and traveled the globe giving America an upclose view of international happenings. How much cooler of a life could you want?

And now I must get back to cleaning, laundry and packing because Mommie Dearest said so.

Thankfully,
Stefanie

Interview Question 2

2007-04-29T21:54:00.000-05:00

This is round two in the "Interview Me" Meme, where Everybody's Talkin asks me whatever she wants.

2) If you could change the world with one lone instance, what would that instance be and why?

I had to think pretty hard about this one, but then I realized I've known the answer to this question since I was 11 years old.

When I was 11, I got "the curse." And Mommie Dearest explained to me that this was Eve's fault. Eve ate the forbidden fruit and then caused women to suffer for a week every month for the majority of their lives, in addition to painful childbirth and difficulty in dealing with men. (That last part I figured out on my own.)

So if I could prevent Eve from eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden and spare women all the horror that is "the curse" and take away the Mars vs. Venus issues, I'd do it in a heartbeat.

Riding a wave on the Crimson Tide,
Stefanie

A loss of independence

2007-04-28T06:49:00.000-05:00

Since I've lived where I do (like I'm going to tell the world my address) several people have lived across the hall from me, but most notably (and recently) it was Veda.

Veda was an elderly lady who sold her house after all her friends and neighbors had either died or been forced to live with their children. But she wasn't typical. She had spunk. She was outright sassy.

In fact, she reminded me a lot of my Granny, my dad's mom. My Granny has always been described as a spitfire and I've always hoped I'd have caught just a little of that in my DNA.

Well Veda was like that, independant and fun. I didn't know her well, but the times we'd cross paths headed home or to our cars, we'd stop and chat. She would be smiling and laughing, living on her own.

But about a month ago, I noticed her car had been parked in the same spot for about a week and that Veda hadn't come in or out of her apartment. I knew this because a notice had been wedged between her door and door frame and it hadn't moved.

My overly active imagination caused me to go to the leasing office and mention this to them, in hopes they might go in and make sure she had died. (I worry about this myself, since I live alone. )

Thankfully, she wasn't in there. So I began to imagine Veda was off visiting her sister in Ohio (also a firecracker) and they were having a big time (like the Golden Girls).

But Thursday, I found out where she'd been. Veda had to have heart surgey and had been recovering at her daughter's home. And I discovered this because her daughter had come to move Veda out of her apartment.

As I was headed to my car, I caught a glimpse of Veda on her couch as her daughter and grandson began packing up her life. She looked so old and sad. She didn't look anything like the vibrant elderly lady I met when she moved in.

I understand her daughter's concerns about her living alone, but I think it's so much worse that now Veda's lost her independence. And from the look on her face, I think it feels like she's lost so much more.

*****UPDATE on Veda*************************************************************
So Veda's son-in-law was moving some stuff out of her apartment this evening and I asked him how she was doing.

She did have bypass surgery and they replaced a valve. She's recovering at her daughter's house, BUT she'll be moving to a retirement community in May. So Veda will still have some independance!

And he said that she'll be glad to know some of the neighbors were asking about her and that even made them feel good about the time she did live here.

Lessons learned: It pays big to know your neighbors - it builds a true sense of community. And even though I was scared to start up a conversation with a stranger, it was worth it. I feel so much better about Veda and her well-being.

Interview Question 1

2007-04-27T22:09:00.000-05:00

So all my friends have being doing this Meme where you ask someone five questions and they post the answers on their blog. I asked Casey to interview me because I think she knows enough about me to ask interesting questions and not enough to still be curious.

I'm going to answer the questions in separate posts so I'll have a reason to blog for the next several days.

1) If you could pick anyone in the 1960's to be, who would it be and why?

For some reason this has been a difficult question for me to answer. I would like to have been one of the activists in the Civil Rights movement. In the 60s white college students traveled to Mississippi during the summer of 1964 for Freedom Summer. They helped black people work towards getting the right to vote and taught classes in the Freedom schools.

I've always wanted to be a part of something grand that truly impacted the world. And I've always stood firmly against racism. I tend to find myself fighting for the underdog (except for Hillary), and I think that would be a wonderfully rewarding, life-changing experience.

I have a dream,
Stefanie

Blogging

2007-04-15T22:27:00.000-05:00

Hey kids,

I'm blogging tonight because it's nearly been forever since I last blogged and I'm simply feeling guilty about it.

My reason for not blogging lately: lack of interest and motivation.

I always have things to discuss with the internet as a whole, but alas, I haven't had the desire to actually sit down and pound it out. Honestly, I haven't had the energy.

Recently, I changed my birth control pills from something I've taken for the past 8 plus years to something new. Why, you ask? Because I felt I'd built up a tolerance to the pills and my mood swings and irritability have increased and since those are the reasons I take the pill, then I thought I needed a change.

Unfortunately, the new pill has made me completely ambivalent to the world around me. Granted, my mood swings and irritability have vanished, but ALL I want to do is eat and sleep. And I'm completely exhausted all the time. Most days during the two weeks I've been taking the new pill, I am compelled to take at least an hour's nap.

Add all this to my impending birthday and I'm not so much seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. So up until now, I've decided not to bum all of you out.

On a good note, I've gotten our train tickets and reservations taken care of.

I'm officially freaked out about going. I canNOT believe I'm going to be away from home for 15 days on a different continent where people don't speak my language. Of course, I was petrified in the days just before going to NOLA and you all know how much I loved that trip (And probably wish I'd hush about it already).

Oh, and just so I'm not the only blogger who hasn't commented on it: While Don Imus is clearly a bigot, the first amendment protects his ability to say racist things. America may be the land of the free and the home of the brave, but it's also the birthplace of offensive speech and its protection.

In America, you are also free to change the channel.

Down and out,
Stefanie

Test

2007-04-08T15:31:00.001-05:00

Click here for my NOLA photo slideshow.

The Faux Pox and other updates

2007-03-28T21:13:00.000-05:00

Greetings Internet!!!

Just so you don't all feel completely neglected, I've been blogging in my head; I just hadn't set down and let it all out until now.

So about the chicken pox...now known as the Faux Pox.

After three days without human interaction, I called the doctor's office to find out the results of my blood work. Funny thing, turns out I didn't have the chicken pox as the doctor initially thought. I had the Faux Pox. The Faux Pox didn't so much itch or cause any discomfort; they just kept me from work, friends, family, etc. for three days.

At my folo up appointment, my doctor said the Faux Pox were probably caused by some random virus and they are healing nicely now.

THEN, the morning of my folo up appointment my face had some kind of allergic reaction to spring. It was severely less than fabulous, but that too is now fading.

The blessing behind the Faux Pox is that now my apartment is cleaner than it ever has been. I scrubbed the baseboards, vacuumed under the big furniture and washed everything that would fit in the washing machine.

And now, as I type, I'm chilling in at the Embassy Suites watching King of Queens after a long day of Clerkin' workshops and then much needed shopping therapy.

Highlights of the day:
* I met the Mayor of Livingston, TN, a thriving metropolis of 4,200 people. He has the most adorable southern accent AND loves Harold Ford, Jr.

* I met a woman from Westmoreland, TN, population 2,100, whose daughter asked for AND received a goat for Christmas.

* I met a woman from Baxter, TN (outside of Cookeville) not sure of the population and she lives on a farm complete with a llama. I asked why she had a llama and she said she didn't know.

* I made a brief presentation about comunication barriers and had my fellow clerks rolling with laughter.

* As this is my sixth City Clerk Conference, I will graduate and be a state-certified City Clerk.

* I bought a new suit at Ann Taylor Loft along with several other fabulous items and saved 20 percent!

So, that's the update for now, there's much more to discuss about D.C. and we could always talk about Europe. Plus, I have an improved philosophy on life that needs airing out.

Faux pox free,
Stefanie

Bringin' Poxy back!

2007-03-20T23:33:00.000-05:00

So it's official, there is NO way to make chicken pox sexy.

Yes, friends, I have the chicken pox. I am 27 years old and there is a pox upon my house.

Just to get the details out of the way:
* I had chicken pox when I was kid. It was horrible!
* Apparently you CAN get the pox more than once.
* No, this isn't shingles, thank goodness!
* My doctor said I AM contagious.

Now, it's really not all that bad. I'm a bit itchy, but otherwise I feel fine, just a bit imprisoned. Since I'm contagious, I can't go to work and I won't be "un-contagious" until all my pox scab over. (Yes, I know how sexy THAT sounds!)

I snuck up to work tonight and got some stuff to work on from home. But I just can't wrap my brain around the fact that I have CHICKEN POX!!! This is just too, too nuts.

Oh, and feel free to laugh. I know you probably already have, but in case you were holding back. Everyone else has had quite a laugh at my itchy expense. And really, it is pretty funny.

I have NO idea where I got the pox, but I hope not to pass it on to anyone. BUT if any of you feel bad for me and have a free hour or so, stop on by. You can sit in your car and I'll yell from the porch!

Poxily yours,
Stefanie

Awestruck

2007-03-13T09:35:00.000-05:00

I have so many thoughts swirling around in my head and so much excitement pulsing through my veins, I'm finding it hard to put this morning into words.

I got up well before the sun in hopes of seeing Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton and my efforts did not go unrewarded. After what seemed like an eternity of boring introductions and three cups of coffee, Senator Clinton walked in the room filled with Democratic officials and curious onlookers.
As soon as I saw her I got goosebumps. I have admired this woman for well over half my life. She embodies the strength and ambition that I strive for. Honestly, she is just absolutely fabulous.

As she was being led out of the breakfast by Secret Service agents, I was just three feet away. I thought I was going to cry I was so excited. My boss has said that influential/famous politicians are rock stars to me. And Hillary is one of the biggest rock stars of all time to me.

And speaking to icons, yesterday I got to see part of the Smithsonian's Museum of American History collection. Above are the one and only ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz next to the Scarecrow's costume.

And next to a goofy looking blogger is none other than Kermit the Frog, circa 1970. Kermit says "Hi!"

So D.C. has thus far been fabulous with Senator Clinton as the obvious highlight. But for all of you who worried I'd come here and want to stay, worry no longer - there's no place like home.

Crazy survey

2007-03-08T22:51:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to take this weird survey and I finally got my Ipod up and working. While some of these random selections are eerie ("Will I have kids?" or "How can I get ahead in life?") most of them are just too funny. I think the thing to take from this is my clearly eclectic music collection.

*Ipod on Shuffe*
Grab your Ipod, Put it on SHUFFLE and use it to answer these questions...
How am I feeling today?:	Hollywood Nights - Bob Segar
Will I get far in life?:	If You're Gonna Play in Texas - Alabama
How do my friends see me?:	Broken Wings - Mr. Mister
Who will I marry?:	Money (That's What I want) - Barret Strong
What is my best friend's theme song?:	Baby did a bad thing, Chris Isaak
What is the story of my life?:	We Danced Anyways - Deanna Carter
What is highschool like?:	Stainding outside the fire - Garth Brooks
How can I get ahead in life?:	Dude looks like a lady - Aerosmith
What is the best thing about me?:	Friends in Low Places -Garth Brooks
How is today going to be?:	California Dreamin- Mamas and Papas
What is in store for this weekend?:	You can't Hurry Love - The Supremes
What song describes my parents?:	Free Your Mind - En Vogue
To describe my grandparents?:	Lift Every Voice and Sing - Black Choir
How is my life going?:	Devil in Disguise - Elvis Presley
What song will they play at my funeral?:	Lump - Presidents of the United States
How does the world see me?:	The Tears of a Clown - Four Tops
Will I have a happy life?:	Wishing Well - Terence Trent D'Arby
Will I have children?:	I Hate Myself for Losing You - Kelly Clarkson
What was my childhood like?:	Never Gonna Get It - En Vogue
What is some good advice for me?:	Dim All the Lights - Donna Summers
How will I be remembered?:	You Shook Me All Night Long - ACDC
What is my signature dancing song?:	If You've Got Leaving on Your Mind - Patsy Cline
What is my current theme song?:	Hey Ya - Outkast
What does everyone else thing my theme is?:	Respect - Aretha Franklin
What song describes my mood right now?:	My Kind of Town - Frank Sinatra
What song do I listen to when Im depressed?:	Louisiana Woman/Mississippi Man - Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty
Happy?:	Shameless - Garth Brooks
Scared?:	Straight Tequila Night - Brooks and Dunn
Bored?:	I Need a Hero - Bonnie Tyler
What type of girls/guys do I go for?:	Someday We'll Be Together - The Supremes
What type goes for me?:	It's Only Rock and Roll - Rolling Stones
What should I be doing right now?:	Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
What is in store for the future?:	She's Not the Cheating King - Brooks and Dunn
How was your past?:	Any Man of Mine - Shania Twain
href="http://www.bzoink.com/S53782/Ipod_on_Shuffe.html" title="Ipod on Shuffe">Take this survey \| Find more surveys \| MySpace Surveys Bzoink - The Original Survey Site

Hello, my name is fabulous!

2007-03-04T22:25:00.000-06:00

Guess where we're going?! PARIS!!!!!

Oh, and Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan and Pisa!!!

I bought our plane tickets today! It's official - we are on our way!!!

May 25 (Just 2 months and 3 weeks away) B and I will be boarding a plane to Paris, France! I could not BE more excited!

Fabulously yours,
Stefanie