Psalm 50:23

I'm moving!

2010-10-14T22:17:00.001-05:00

For future blogs, go to www.stephshuler.wordpress.com

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o for grace to trust him more

2010-10-14T14:06:00.003-05:00

About five years ago, life changed. Something that I had always had and found a lot of my identity in had started to look different. My fears were confirmed by a couple of different doctors and they had no solutions for me rather than to just learn to deal with it. {for those who don’t know the issue, don’t worry—I’m not sick}. After a lot of tears that things would never be as they were, I picked myself up and moved forward. The problem was somewhat dormant for the past few years but recently reared its ugly little head again, thus starting the cycle of tears and questions.

It is in those moments that I find myself thinking about what life was like before this was brought into my life. The mind is very clever in taking memories and turning them into a revisionist history of sorts. I often reflect on the past as my own little Utopia. “Surely every day was full of rainbows and sunshine before this ‘problem’ arrived.” Or, “ I never had a care in the world and life was but a dream.” This is absurd, of course, but it’s what sometimes goes through my head. I do believe in the line from that famous Joni Mitchell song that says “you don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone”. But I am kidding myself when I think that fixing one problem in my life is going to cause every other issue to line up neatly in a row.

I would love nothing more than for everything to go back to the way that it was. I am hopeful that a new doctor will be able to help pinpoint a trigger. But I am learning that whatever happens, I will be fine. God has already used this whole situation to draw me closer to him as I realize, yet again, that I am not in control. He has surrounded me with people that love me regardless of what I look like. He has given me faith that He is control and that he will use this whole situation for His glory one way or another. I am His and He is good. For now, I will wait and trust and pray.

Psalm 69:1:3 At an acceptable time O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.

Fun stuff

2010-08-15T16:48:00.001-05:00

I heard this story back in June but just finally watched this video today. I've always loved Lenny Kravitz and think he's pretty cute...but his stock went way up after watching this! And it's pretty cool that the choir is from my town. Shout out to L-Ville (:
Enjoy!

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Hair

2010-08-12T17:51:00.001-05:00

Ten years ago, I spent two months in China and Hong Kong. A lot happened on that trip in terms of who I was becoming as a person and I felt like a new girl who was ready to take on the world.
So I had the brilliant idea to cut off my hair. New 'do and a new attitude! This is the pic I took into the salon.

Cute, right? I thought so. After warning the stylist that my hair shrunk when it dried, she kept cutting. The result was the picture in on the right {can't crop on the iPhone}

My college buddies can vouch for me. It was horrific. I cried for at least two days straight. But it grew and it actually ended up becoming one of my favorite styles after 6 months or so.

Well now I'm wanting to go a little shorter and have an appointment next Wednesday. I was thinking of something that would be a little past my chin when straight and a little funky/short when curly. Kind of like this:

Now, my hair is curlier and thinner than Sarah Jessica's but I still feel it could work.

Anyone have comments, suggestions, ideas? I have a few days to nail something down.
I just don't want to end up with Felicity-gate 2.0 (:

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Always, Sometimes, Never

2010-08-12T17:11:00.001-05:00

I saw this on a blog that I follow and thought I'd play along. You're supposed to tag others to join the fun, so I tag my two readers...ha!

I Always...

...drink caffeine at least once a day
...am thankful for my family
...check Google Reader each morning
...am happy when Marco is in a snuggly mood
...could eat Mexican food
...remember every single detail
...overanalyze
...sleep on the right side of the bed
...wish all of my friends lived in the Metroplex
...try to have a conversation with cashiers
...wish I took more pictures
...worry too much about things I can't control
...will be Dallas Cowboys fan!

I Sometimes...

...make my bed
...watch too much t.v.
...remember to take my vitamins
...think about becoming a vegetarian
...miss living in an apartment
...am nervous about meeting new people
...wish I had naturally straight hair
...wish I was more disciplined
...ponder running another marathon
...regret studying so much in college instead of having more fun
...wished I lived in Colorado
...wonder if I'll have a family of my own
...go to bed without taking my makeup off
...forget my age
...wish that the world could rewind to a time when we weren't innundated with Kardashians
...dream of getting my master's

I Never....

...feel unloved
...enjoy yardwork
...regret working out
...feel organized
...get tired of Patty Griffin, Hillsong, or 'Enter the worship circle"
...get tired of laughing
...have eaten ribs
...miss living under my parents' rules

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You must try this!

2010-08-08T14:30:00.001-05:00

This salad dressing is sooo good and healthy! I love that it's fresh and you can whip it up yourself. It would be great for those of you with an herb garden.
Here's the recipe... (:

Creamy Italian Dressing
3/4 c. olive oil
1/4 c. raw apple cider vinegar
2 or 3 cloves garlic, peeled
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 t. sea salt
1/2 c. fresh basil
1/4 c. fresh oregano
1/3 c. pure water
1/3 c. pine nuts
In a high speed blender, combine all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Remove any foam
that rises to the top. For a lighter version, omit the water and pine nuts.

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hope floats

2010-08-07T12:22:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I was flipping through the channels on my television and came across "Hope Floats". I love that movie. It is a difficult film to watch at times but there are so many sweet little parts to it that warm my heart.

Perhaps the hardest part to watch is when the grandmother is tucking Bernice into bed and reassuring her that everything is going to be fine and that her mother, Birdie, is a strong woman who just doesn't know her own strength yet. Little Bernice grabs her grandmother in a long hug to which she responds with, "My cup runneth over". The contentment that the grandmother finds in that moment is profound. Even though her husband has Alzheimer's and no longer recognizes her, her daughter's life is torn apart by infidelity, and her little grandson has been abandoned by his parents, she is overwhelmed with gratitude. In the midst of her crummy circumstances, she is filled with joy. Now, if you've seen the movie, you know that the next scene is where several boxes of tissues are necessary.

There have been several times in the past few days where I have had moments where I have been tempted to feel sorry for myself or dwell on hurt. And sometimes those feelings win. But, God has graciously shown me glimpses of how much he loves me through the people he's placed in my life. And he's answered even the smallest of prayers in the past few days.

So as I am sitting at Schlotzsky's this Saturday morning and enjoying their free internet, I am thankful. Thankful for good coffee, family who is selfless and loves me unconditionally, friends who make me laugh, a sweet little dog who is always happy to see me, a job that I'm excited about returning to, air conditioning, health, and God's grace.

My cup runneth over.

Can you guess what this is???

2010-08-05T22:29:00.001-05:00

If you guessed that this was my new Bible then you are correct! I first saw this about a month ago and thought it was pretty. That's the most important thing, right? Ha. But, when I opened it up, I got even more excited because it is an ESV journaling Bible! Each page has margins for notetaking, reflections on verses, etc. Here's a sample of the inside:

Neat, huh? I am already loving it and think it would be special if it gets passed down to my own kids or grandkids someday. I love it!

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Low key Friday night

2010-07-30T19:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! This day of the week doesn't hold quite as much excitement in the summer, but I still love the weekends:)
This has been a good week. It was about time because there have been some rough ones thrown in there recently. But, things are looking up and the hard days will hopefully make me stronger in the end.
Tonight I am staying in and watching "27 Dresses" whilst eating some Mexican. And yes, there might be a little homemade margarita on the side. Thank you, Bethenny Frankel, for the recipe;)

But here's my week in review:
1. I made a list of 20 things I'd like to do before I turn 35. This was inspired by my last book club read, "the next thing on my list". I haven't crossed anything off yet but some things are in the works.

2. I started august's book club pick, "the kitchen house". So far, so good!

3. I finished "eat, pray, love". I give it 7 out of ten stars. Ha. I like the way the author writes but I got bogged down in the "India" section. Perhaps it's because I disagreed with the new age spirituality so strongly. But, as a story, it was interesting and I want to see the movie.

4. I went to my first meeting with the Chin Refugee Ministry. I went to a training on Tuesday and learned how to fill out paperwork for medicaid and food stamps. It is humbling to know how little some people live on but how badly they want to live in this country. I'm truly thankful for being blessed enough to have more than I need.

5. I met some people from Young Life Lewisville/Flower Mound at a BBQ last night. I went not knowing anyone which is totally out of character for me. But, my new motto is "do it afraid". Everyone was so welcoming and I'm praying about joining the leadership team. I love high school kids and was really excited when I heard about the vision of YL last night.

6. There is a reason I don't have 3 dogs. Enough said!

7. Random observation--The girl in 27 dresses who is Katherine heigl's friend plays that same role in every movie...13 going on 30, the wedding planner, etc. Typecast much?

8. Amy Grant is following me on Twitter! Isn't that a riot? It's like all my childhood dreams came true with one email announcement. Ok, that's a little dramatic but I do love me some Amy!

9. Last thing-listen to your mom when she says to wear sunscreen. I'm paying the price for a horrible burn I acquired at the Lifetime pool on Sunday. Moms know what they're talking about!

Have a great weekend!!!

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Testing...

2010-07-29T14:00:00.001-05:00

I am writing this from my iPhone to see how it works. There is an app that lets you hook up to Blogger so we will see how it works! I got rid of internet access in my home a while back so that's one reason I have been MIA.
I am currently looking after my friend Carrie's pugs. It is a full house here! Here is Hawkeye...he fell asleep while reading a book this afternoon;)

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do you tweet????

2010-04-21T20:18:00.002-05:00

I've been dipping my toe into the Twitter pool lately and I would like to know....do you tweet?!?!?!

I am at twitter.com/stephanieshuler

sseko sandals

2010-03-21T18:31:00.003-06:00

I get a lot of flack for wearing my gray TOMS at school, but I love them. And I love that my purchase of them provided someone else in need with their own pair of shoes. So, a few months ago I was reading a blog and first learned about Sseko Sandals. . Sseko is a Ugandan based business that employees women to help fund their education. Go to the website and read the stories...you won't be sorry! The thing I love about these sandals is that you can change out the straps and tie them a plethora of ways. I just ordered a pair this past week--plus a couple of other straps-- and I can't wait until the weather warms up and I can wear them. Here are a couple of pictures so you can see how cute and fun these are!

365 dates with Duds

2010-03-15T21:13:00.002-06:00

This is my mom's idea for a book I should write. Per telling her about my most recent date that I had tonight, she thinks it would be hi-larious if I dated someone everyday and then wrote about it. Thanks Mom! She now thinks my life is comedic fodder. All I can say is that I guess it's good to be able to laugh at life's little mishaps and/or adventures. For my friends with spouses: please thank God that you are out of the dating scene and hug your husband or wife!!! It's scary out there :)

this says it all

2010-02-08T14:16:00.002-06:00

I came across this post today and just thought it was one of the most beautiful things I've read in a while. I confess to stalking this blog but she hasn't updated for some time. This post, however, was so worth the wait. She has found the words to describe so much of what's in my heart right now and I was left feeling encouraged when I finished reading this. Enjoy.
http://katemcdonald.wordpress.com/2010/02/08/the-judean-desert/

Scentsy

2010-01-24T18:37:00.002-06:00

For Christmas, my mom gave me a wonderful gift--a Scentsy warmer! I had never even heard of these items but absolutely fell in love with the products. They are wickless candles and are safer because they use a bulb to heat the wax. Furthermore, they are sooo much stronger than any other candle that I've had. I can turn it on in my living room and it smells up the whole house. It is truly fantastic. So, I decided that I wanted to get involved with the company and have now set up my website so that I can sell Scentsy products. You can see that here: https://stephanieshuler.scensty.us/

Don't worry friends...I am not going to beg you to host a party or anything like that. But, if you'd like to, I would love to do that with you. You do get really good perks for being a hostess (: The other cool thing is you can order online straight from the website if you'd like.

Allright. Check it out for yourself!!

too good not to share

2009-12-06T18:07:00.002-06:00

My friend Tara has introduced me to some recipe blogs and I have enjoyed trying out a few recipes. Last week, I couldn't help but make this recipe for Bacon Cheeseburger Chicken. It is delicious, and I'm not even a big fan of bacon. And it's not particularly healthy but sometimes you just don't care about that. The other great thing is that it's easy and only uses a few ingredients. So check out the recipe below..but I also suggest visiting the link to see step-by-step instructions complete with pictures.

Bacon Cheeseburger Chicken

2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, split
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup Ranch dressing
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 lb bacon (or bacon bits)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large skillet, heat oil & butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts, and saute 4 to 5 minutes each side, until lightly browned. Place browned chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with teriyaki sauce and dressing. Sprinkle with cheese and top with bacon bits. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

tis the season

2009-12-06T16:07:00.002-06:00

I think about blogging a lot. There have been times where putting my thoughts out here has been so freeing. But right now, I just don't have that much to say. But I thought I would ease back into blogging with a list. I love lists, however, they are kind of a cheat when it comes to creating a new entry.

Since it's the Christmas season, here are the top ten things I love about this time of the year:
1. Christmas cookies with Hillary and Melissa. We have done it two
years now...here's hoping it will be a tradition!
2. My Christmas tree. I debated whether or not it was worth it for me to put
it up, but I did and it makes me so happy everyday.
3. Hot chocolate. Enough said.
4. Looking at Christmas lights.
5. My mom's famous "trash" recipe.
6. The feeling of magic, excitement, and giving in the air
7. Cheesy Christmas movies...especially the ones on Lifetime--ha
8. Making homemade Christmas cards and just crafting in general.
9. Seeing my Aunt Gina's Snow Village display. Seriously--it is out of control!
10. Celebrating the gift of Jesus

I will try to get back into the swing of things. Until then...

fall

2009-10-18T13:08:00.005-05:00

My favorite season is slowly arriving. I love everything about this time of year. For the past couple of years, I've hung a little Fall "welcome" sign. Well, I happened to see this site. The yarn wreaths are absolutely adorable. Since I don't have $50 to spend on a fall wreath, I decided to try to make my own. I started it a few weeks ago but just finished it today. And while it's not as cute as the ones at Knock-Knocking, I like it. Here are a couple of pictures....although, I think it may be a little too small for my door. Happy Fall!!

Restaurant.com

2009-10-06T22:28:00.002-05:00

So you might say I'm a little obsessed with saving money...and you'd be right! But I'm convinced that once you really experience the high that coupons can give you, you'll be hooked.
One site I learned about a while back was Restaurant.com. This is a website where you can buy gift certificates for restaurants at a discounted price. For example, you can get a $25 gift certificate by only paying $10. A lot of the certificates have a minimum that you have to buy and might add gratuity. BUT, it is still a great deal. The other cool thing is that this site is always having promotions so that you can get even more savings. I got a $25 one to Agave for only $1.25. What's the catch? Well, the point of this site is to get you to try new and perhaps obscure restaurants that you may not go to otherwise. You aren't going to find chain restaurants here. And, you can't use it on alcohol in most cases, but other than, it's legit. Melissa and I tried it out this past Friday and rang up quite a bill....we got queso, two orders of fajitas, and sopapillas all for a grand total of about $37. So after the certificate, it was only $12 total. Well, almost...we won't talk about the margaritas that we had... :)
Give it a shot...it would make for a cheap date night or a great dinner for 4.

love this site

2009-09-29T18:43:00.002-05:00

Ok...I have blogged before about how I have this identity crisis about not fitting into any category. Just about 95% of my friends are married, mommies, etc. And I still get sent to the kid's table at family functions even though I'm 30, own a house, have a job, etc. Do I sound bitter? Those aren't my intentions...I'm just occasionally frustrated with this extended "season". I am just really interested in things that are not usually associated with single-working adults, but rather mothers of young families. Like couponing and saving money. I get a high every week when I get free stuff at the grocery store, Walgreen's, CVS, etc. One of my problems in this area is organization. Imagine my excitement when I saw this video blog yesterday on how to organize a coupon binder! I love this post: http://hip2save.blogspot.com/2009/09/follow-me-monday-coupon-organization.htmland
I also encourage everyone to check out hip2save.com
It's amazing!!! Enjoy.

my next thirty years

2009-09-21T20:22:00.002-05:00

Oh, how I loved that Tim Mcgraw song when I was in college and 30 was far off in the distance. I thought it was so clever and witty. Now that I am officially in my 30s, I'm not sure what to make of this new decade. The one thing I am grateful for is that God doesn't allow us to glimpse into our lives 10 years down the road. I am quite certain that my 20 year old self would absolutely freak out if I knew where I would be at 30. And, let's be honest--this was not my first choice. But, it's just fine. I can't help but hold out hope that some of my most exciting life moments are going to happen in the next ten years, and I have to admit that being 30 gives me a sense that I'll be taken a little more seriously :)

One of my goals was to take a picture everyday of my 30th (31st?) year. I bought a camera but I keep forgetting I have it. My family has never been into photographing our lives so I guess that rubbed off on me. I will try to remember that I have the camera and document all of the excitement that this year will hold.

A Must Watch!!

2009-08-14T14:47:00.004-05:00

I just found this awesome YouTube video called 'Love Story Meets Viva la Vida'. It is an arrangement of both songs played by two guys on the cello and piano. It is beautiful and I can't stop listening/watching it! I happen to love both of these songs and they go together very well. The pianist and arranger, Jon Schmidt, was inspired to do this because his little girl loves "Love Story" by Taylor Swift.
Anyway, enough of my chit-chat...watch it for yourself and enjoy!! **be sure to turn off my music player on the side of the page ;)

winding down

2009-08-07T21:41:00.003-05:00

Well, it's almost that time. Summer is coming to an end in a few days. In a weird way, I am excited to get back into a routine and have a job to go to each day. For the first time in a while, I am getting to stay in my same subject area and grade level! So, I will hopefully be able to recycle some stuff from last year and not feel like a first year teacher for the 8th year in a row :) But, there will be one slight change...I am now the math department head. Yes, what a nerdy title to hold, however, it should be a nice challenge and there is even a tiny stipend involved. Yea!

Since my last post, a lot has happened. First off, my sweet friend Melissa got married last Saturday. Words cannot describe how breathtaking Melissa looked on hr big day. Her dress was seriously on of the most gorgeous wedding dress I've ever seen. I wish I had a picture but she was a beautiful bride. Next up is Hillary, who I know will be stunning as well!!! I can't wait to see Millary become official ;) **Hillary--you need to start a blog now**

A lot has also happened around my house. It turns out that I did need foundation work. It was pricey. The good news is that the work is guaranteed for a lifetime. Just as I was digesting that, more bad news came in the form of a plumbing leak. Ouch. Thank goodness for savings! It's good to have all that taken care of but I could have easily used that same amount of money to redo my fireplace and my floors. That part stings a little bit. Oh well...in due time. All I know is that I am never leaving my little house because I do not want to inherit the problems of another home :)

This summer has been expensive, but, I will be challenged to really tighten up my budget and reevaluate where my money goes. I think the biggest changes will be with little things and unplanned, though small, purchases. Today I sold some books at Half-Price Books and got $29 for them. I got to clean out some clutter and get paid for it! I think my new thing is going to be to simplify. I don't want to acquire a lot of stuff, but rather, learn to enjoy what I have. I am ready for this challenge and to see how much I can save with some simple lifestyle changes.

Sorry for another rambling post, but that's all I've got right now. Here's to the last days of summer....it has been a hard, but good one. Oh, and if you know any kids in my area who need math tutoring, please let me know...I'm looking for a little extra income :)

most boring blog post in history

2009-07-15T19:42:00.003-05:00

I am fairly certain that no one will read this all the way through, but I am just writing to make myself feel better.
Summer has been pretty good so far...nothing super-exciting going on. That's allright, though. Things are picking up this weekend with a trip to New Braunfels!! I can't wait (: But, before I get to go have fun, I have a potentially big day ahead of my tomorrow. I noticed some movement in the brick outside my kitchen window last week, so I am having an engineer from the foundation company come out tomorrow morning for a look. Hopefully, it will not be bad news, as foundation repairs are not cheap. Maybe I'll just need mortar for the crack. Then tomorrow afternoon, I have a dentist appointment. I just went in March, but I am on a "special" plan where I have to go 3 times a year b/c my gums have receded a little bit--nice, huh? I think I have a cavity on one of my molars, but maybe it's just a stain. However, now I'm worried that I will need a crown or something b/c that tooth has already been filled. Hopefully that won't be the case. I have been flossing twice a day for the past few months and really taking care of my teeth...maybe it will pay off. It's weird to realize that everything gets older and some things just can't be reversed. I don't like that feeling!!!

So, I am hoping for good news from the engineer and from the dentist. Frankly, I don't want to spend any extra money on any of these things. Sometimes it feels like getting ahead is impossible because of life's little surprises.

But I do have New Braunfels AND a dinner date with Melissa and Hillary tomorrow night, so there is something to look forward to. I will try to be back with some happier, more exciting updates very soon!!!

Hillsong is Coming to Dallas!!!

2009-06-30T19:56:00.003-05:00

Well, I have written many, many blogs about my love of Hillsong United. The other day, I was trying to remember my first encounter with Joel Houston, er, I mean, Hillsong United. When I was a junior in college, my roommate Mandy convinced me to try out for Music Ministries. I made it, even though I think about just everyone who tried out did. Anyhoo, that year, we wore the tar out of a song called "Everyday". For those of you ORU alums, you know you can testify that we sang this every chapel. Guess that the director, Arlie Whitlow, took the title of this song literally.
I have been to three Hillsong concerts. The last one was a fun little road trip with Michelle to Houston a couple of years ago. Well, guess what?!?!? They are coming to Dallas on August 25th!!! I am sooo pumped about this!!! The last one was so great so I can't wait to see what's in store in August. And, maybe this will be the time I get to meet Joel (see a couple of posts down for a pic) and he will fall madly in love with me. Haha. Then, I can move to Australia and be much closer to my favorite Australian (by way of Cali), Rebekah :) If you would like to go, let me know...tickets are on sale July 10th!!

swagbucks

2009-06-28T12:59:00.003-05:00

Ok....I first heard about this while blog-stalking (come on, you all know you do it!!)
I then learned more about this from the Money Saving Mom and thought that I would give it a try. Well, after just three weeks of using swagbucks.com as my search engine, I have earned 50 swagbucks! Now, i can either trade that in for a $5 amazon gift card (or other prizes)or, I can keep saving for something bigger. It really is so easy, so I encourage you to try it. You can usually win between 1-3 a day just for searching! So easy. Anyway, if you sign up use the little banner in the upper right hand corner of my blog and I can earn bucks. Then, you can get people to sign up under you and you'll earn from those people. It's kind of like a pyramid scheme except you don't have to buy anything. Give it a try!

called out

2009-06-18T15:09:00.004-05:00

Well, Michelle called me out yesterday that I had fallen off of the blog wagon. She's right. I have. The other day when I ran, I had so many different blogs in my head. But, they are just not coming to me naturally. I guess I could blog about my summer plans. Or about how I am now less than three months away from a new decade and how I have a list of things I want to accomplish.

So, because I am not in the full blogging mode, I'll cheat with a random list of thoughts and happenings. Hopefully, I'll be back in action soon with some clever stories or deep reflections on life :)

**Hillsong United has a new album. It's good though not my favorite as of yet. But, i always need time for them to grow on me. And I still want to marry Joel Houston.

**I finally got my Etsy store running. It's www.kiwicloset.etsy.com--a separate post is coming on that!

**My goal is to workout everyday this summer in some way and to try some new classes at Lifetime.

**I want to do something different to my hair but don't have ideas. I'm in a couple of weddings in the next few months so might need to keep it longer for that. But, I really feel like chopping it off a bit. Suggestions are welcome!!

**I need a camera. Anyone have any ideas on a good, inexpensive digital camera?

**I finally have a weed eater so I can stop avoiding my neighbors! Yardwork is not one of my favorite pastimes, but I can't justify paying someone for it.

**I'm excited to see "My Sister's Keeper". My mom just finished the book so I am hoping we can have a little date when it comes out. If you haven't read it, you should. So good!!

**"Saved by the Bell" comes on TBS in the mornings! The other day I caught two classic episodes: The one where Jessie gets hooked on "Uppers" and the one where Mr. Belding's brother comes into town to take over the school trip. Love that show!

**And finally, my little heart is on the mend. What a hard lesson this has all been, but good is coming from it. Maybe I can't see the big picture now, but I will. And I will be glad to look back one day and realize that God's plans are far better and bigger than mine.

Oh, one more thing...
I read Psalm 105 from the Message today and was encouraged particularly by this one verse: "Keep your eyes open for God, watch for his works; be alert for signs of his presence." I really like this and hope you do too!

I can't think of anything else right now...but don't give up on me ;)

stay tuned....

2009-05-31T23:58:00.004-05:00

In a week or so, I hope to debut some of my little products that are ready to be ordered! I just finished an apron order and now I have some free time to work on my applique stuff. Today, I found some great new fabrics and am ready to play with them. Still working on a name for the business...thoughts??? Just to remind you, here are two designs you can request. You can get them on tshirts, onesies, burpcloths, canvas tote bags, etc. The possibilities are endless!! I also have boy stuff but need to get some pictures :)

one month....

2009-05-29T22:16:00.003-05:00

...has passed since I last blogged. I am back...but not for long. Nothing that I say in this post will be very encouraging or upbeat, but I hope to get back into the groove of blogging soon.

And to those of you who are reading this who know what's been going on the past few days, thank you for your incredible patience and listening ears. Thank you for praying for me, telling me that you love me through and through, and that there is better for me on the horizon. Sometimes our choices lead to hurt that seems to come out of nowhere, and it is a harsh reality that we may never get the answers or closure that we need. But the end of the day, I always know that I am loved and that means more to me than any of you truly know.

There is this old Cindy Morgan song (for those of you who used to kick it old school with the CCM) called "How Could I ask for More". These particular lyrics kind of sum up where I'm at right about now...
So if there's anything I've learned
From this journey I am on
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise

I am ready to see what blessings will be revealed....and I am trusting that it will be worth all of the tears :)

comfort food

2009-04-29T21:53:00.004-05:00

Last week, The Pioneer Woman posted a macaroni and cheese recipe on her cooking blog. It looked delicious. And I followed the directions perfectly. Apparently, I am not adept at making a roux because the texture of my cheese changed upon baking and curdled.
So because I had not mastered the Mac 'N Cheese, I embarked on a quest to find a delicious, homemade recipe that did not require a roux. After much research online, consultations with friends (thanks Carrie!), I finally found a recipe that seemed to fit my requirements. It was delicious and as many of the reviewers state, it is just as easy as making the Kraft version.

Give it a try...you won't be sorry. I followed this recipe exactly as-is except that I used 5 oz sharp white cheddar and 5 oz of Extra Sharp cheddar. If you don't like sharp cheese, then I am sure it would work well with mild cheddar.

Stove Top Mac-n-Cheese by Alton Brown

Ingredients

* 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 2 eggs
* 6 ounces evaporated milk
* 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* Fresh black pepper
* 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
* 10 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded

Directions

In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the pasta to al dente and drain. Return to the pot and melt in the butter. Toss to coat.

Whisk together the eggs, milk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir into the pasta and add the cheese. Over low heat continue to stir for 3 minutes or until creamy.

i have a crush...

2009-04-27T20:13:00.002-05:00

...on Tony from "Dancing With the Stars".
I just think that he is so cute and fun. I know that he is married with children but he is still fun to watch on the show. He seems like such a great guy!!

I don't have a ton to say but there is a lot on my mind. Tomorrow is TAKS day. So that means that everything I've done this year will be judged on April 28th, 2009. Kind of sucks, but I hope that my kids pull through and do something incredible. Here's hoping.....

Today was pretty great. I got up to work out, went to school and taught, came home, finished two aprons, mowed the lawn, made a dinner, and am now just relaxing and watching some DWTS. My favorite night, however, is Tuesday because I'm really getting into "American Idol". I love Danny but he needs to step it up. I think that Adam will win and it would be well-deserved. We shall see...

Allright. Oh, I almost forgot...I planted 20 nandinas this weekend. My poor little flower bed has been neglected for the past 2 years so it was time. If you have any gardening advice, please let me know! My parents don't have the greenest of thumbs so I'm sure I'm doomed to kill everything. But I would really like these plants to thrive ;)

I'm so deep

2009-04-14T21:33:00.004-05:00

Yes, I know my latest posts have been full of sage wisdom and insight-ha. Today is not different.
While talking to my bestie, Rebekah, I made a comment about how I thought my eyebrows were sparse and thinning out. I have never been an over-plucker. I just clean up a few strays here and there. Lately, I have noticed that the maintenance on the brows has been less and less. This is great for saving time, but bad if I am, in fact, losing my eyebrows! I refuse to be one of those ladies who draws their eyebrows on with a pencil.
So, I did some research and found that a lot of people had favorable things to say about the Bare Essentials Brow Kit. Off to Sephora I went after work on Monday. The kit was a little pricey, but, I must say I am pleased with the results. It's just a powder that you apply with a brush and it also comes with a clear gel to "set" everything. It's fantastic! I have decided that any problem I have can be solved somehow, someway. This is just another example of that. :)

Two more name ideas

2009-04-13T17:36:00.002-05:00

As I strolled through Target after school today, I was inspired by some produce. Instead of desserts laden with sugar, how about something a bit fresher? So here are two more ideas....

**Pineapple Punch
**Tangerine Lime

For these, I could use a little lime or pineapple emblem that could be my "trademark".

Maybe I should put up one of those fun little polls...hmm....

Easter hodge podge

2009-04-12T19:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter everyone! The weather was yucky for the majority of the day, but the sun is shining again and it's so nice out. I love Easter because of what Jesus did for you and me, not to mention all the great candy ;)

Ok. On Thursday night, Melissa and Mack came over. Melissa learned the blanket stitch and helped monogram some aprons. She did great! Mack was working on her wedding book and we all had a great time catching up. One of the things we chatted about was a name for my little Etsy store that I want to start soon. They came up with 'Stitch', which I loved. However, after looking on Etsy and googling the name, it was very popular. So, it's back to the drawing board. Everything I think of seems to be taken already. I get excited and think of something I think is so creative, but then feel stupid because it's been taken already. My favorite was Cotton Candy.
Anyway, here are some things I've thought of that have passed the no-one-else-has-claimed-it test. My goal is to come up with something whimsical or something kind of retro, fresh and fun...hence the food references. I also wanted them to be able to be suitable for both genders. These might be stupid, but I'm brainstorming here. Please let me know what you think!!!

**Red Velvet Designs
**Cherry Cola Designs
**By a Thread
**Apple Pie Designs
**Caramel Apple Designs
**Angel Food Designs
**Sugar Cookie Designs
**stitches and cake (this is a play on a song from "P.S. I love you" called 'Kisses
and cake'...not that anyone will know that)

Feedback is welcome!!!

TOMS

2009-04-10T16:43:00.004-05:00

Rarely am I on the front end of a trend. However, I can finally say that I was onto something before it really took off!
A couple of years ago, I came across some information about TOMS Shoes. I knew of Blake Mycoskie's family because he is from Arlington and his mom actually wrote a cookbook about fat-free cooking that my mom bought (I was obsessed with it for a while in HS). Also, his sister is my age and went to my rival junior high and we had some mutual friends back in the day. You may have seen Blake and his sister Paige on the "Amazing Race" about 7 years ago. Anyway, I loved the idea of buying a pair of shoes and then some impoverished kiddo in another country getting a pair for free. What a great idea. Shoes are something that we all probably take for granted. So, about this time 2 years ago, I bought a pair of pink and navy TOMS. I haven't really seen many people wearing them at all, but last week, one of my students wore two different pairs. Yesterday, I saw a wireless phone commercial featuring Blake talking about his business. And today in the Walmart parking lot, there was a van covered in TOMS pictures. I guess the word has gotten out!
On April 16th, TOMS is sponsoring "One Day Without Shoes". I am not sure how much I can participate in this, but it's a great idea.
I can vouch for the comfort of TOMS personally...they are so soft and comfy. When I wear them, I get asked if they are house slippers--ha. This is the pair that I want to save up for...so cute and fun!

things I'm loving this week

2009-04-08T20:22:00.003-05:00

Hello there,
I thought I needed to put something else up so that my excited toilet paper purchase would be moved down the list :)

Here are some random things that are bringing joy to my life this week...

1. Coffee with Hillary and Melissa.
I just love these girls and our times together. Their weddings are motivating me to get my arms toned up! ha

2. My bedroom
I found some new bedding over spring break and have moved the bed, gotten some new shears, and put some frames up on the wall. It is slowly becoming a place I enjoy, while previously it was my least favorite room in the house.

3. American Idol
What can I say, it's a guilty pleasure. I really like Danny Gokey and Allison. Adam is growing on me. **This just in--Scott got moved to the bottom 3. I feel sorry for him but he needs to go**

4. Morning workouts
I have a new early morning workout buddy, Kristen. It helps me to get up in the mornings when I know that someone is counting on me to be there.

5. Good Friday
So excited for a day off. It would have been nice to have Monday, but it's all good. I'll take what I can get!

6. Tom Thumb pizza
On Friday, I bought a pizza at Tom Thumb for $5 Fridays. I made it Friday and have had it for dinner for five nights total. What a deal, and it tastes great!!

8. DRESSES!!!!
Last summer, I fell in love with dresses. They are so comfy and make you feel just a tad dressed-up. I can throw my hair in a ponytail and be on my way. The best part is, I still look somewhat put together. I haven't donned a pair of shorts since college except for work out purposes. The discovery of cellulite in the summer of 2000 scarred me forever (I can remember the exact day when I noticed it in Vicksburg, MS--haha). Anyway, check out Ross and TJ Max for great deals. Dresses can be found for $15 or less and they are an entire outfit!! Oh, and I got a nicer one at Stein Mart that I wore today. I got a ton of comments on it so you might want to try that Boutique section of Stein Mart...you can find some cute stuff at great prices!

9. Google Reader
Melissa told me about this Monday and it's awesome. Now I can check my blogs at work without having to click all over the place....just in case Big Brother is watching ;)

10. Laser Hair Removal
Some girls from work and I signed up for this a couple of weeks ago. It's my 30th birthday gift to myself. Anyway, if you want to know more specifics as to what I'm doing, let me know! I'm doing it with American Laser and they have a great referral program so sign up!!! I had my first treatment today and it wasn't bad at all.

That's all I've got for now! Hopefully I'll have something more fun to post about later.

can i get a witness????

2009-04-02T19:39:00.002-06:00

I just want to testify to this coupon thing. Today, I registered at a few different sites. One of them was Cellfire. It lets you download coupons to your Kroger Plus card. Then, I printed out this coupon which was for $0.50 off. AND, it was doubled at Kroger. I wanted to try this whole thing out just to test it. So, I ended up getting a $1.19 4-pack of toilet paper for free! And actually, I made $0.06 on it :)
How fantastic is this going to be?!?!? I just love a challenge. And I can't wait to get going on other money saving things...especially the CVS Extra Care Bucks. Call me a nerd, but these things make me excited.

$$$ saving money $$$

2009-04-01T19:55:00.004-06:00

Ok. I am still watching "Idol" and watching Megan Joy do her little farewell song. Does she has the most awkward stage movements or is it just me????

My friend (and former roommate) Claire introduced me to this blog. Our home group even did one of her Bible studies. Anyway, I don't check it all that often but today I saw this post and thought it was good for my friends who have families. I have heard of the grocery game and have even done the trial month before, but, it's hard for me to do it just for myself. But there are a lot of other great links on here about coupons, how to get free stuff, and how to even MAKE money at the store. So, here you go...it sounds like it make take a few minutes to register on sites and to get the hang of it, but it seems like it could result in amazing savings!!!

http://allthingshendrick.blogspot.com/2009/04/350-worth-of-groceries-for-125.html

funky funky

2009-04-01T18:53:00.004-06:00

Not much is going on. I'm kind of having a blah week and am in a funk...so I don't want to bring everyone down with a "Debbie Downer" post. School has been challenging and I am really starting to get nervous about TAKS. I was so frustrated today that I started to cry in my 2nd period class because they were not getting the lesson any way that I presented it. Anyway, days like this make me really think about my job and whether or not I'm in the right career. Who knows....
To my friends who have endured me these past few weeks/months, thank you for your patience with me. I hope to be back soon :)

Anyway, the best way to get out of a pity-party is to count your blessings. Here are a few...

1. My brother, Matthew
He has been back in town for a couple of weeks. When I came home last Wednesday, my lawn was mowed, edged, and weed-eated (not sure if that's a word--ha). What a
great surprise! Then today when I got home, I saw his truck in front of my house
and he was working on both of my toilets. One has been running incessantly and
the other's tank hasn't been filling up. But now they both work--wahoo!!!! He has always been a great brother but this was just too much!! I will miss him when he moves to Idaho to work with YWAM :(

2. My job
Even though it has sucked big-time these past couple of weeks, I am grateful to have one in this economy.

3. Marco
The little guy is a pain in my rear sometimes, but he has been extra-cuddly and I love it!

4. spring days
I absolutely love the beautiful spring days we've had off-and-on. It's hard to be in a bad mood when the weather is nice.

5. my sight
I am watching the "Idol" results show and just feel so blessed for my vision whenever I see Scott. He has such a great attitude despite never having been able to see. It kind of puts things in perspective. I am sure he'd give anything to have sight and it's soething I take for granted daily (even though I might actually be legally blind-ha)

I am ready for this week to end and for a better one to come soon :)

6.

the best day of my life

2009-03-16T17:44:00.006-06:00

Today I kicked off the first official day of Spring Break by going to the dentist. Yea me. I got a lecture on my lack of regular flossing (apparently 3-4 times a week is not enough). Then, the really cute (but of course, married) dentist who was filling in for my usual one found two cavities. He told that soft drinks were probably the culprit. Thank you Dr. Bishop for trying to take away one of the simple joys in my life. (p.s. I found it highly ironic that one my pastors posted a blog on cavities today-check it out here)

While the hygienist went to town on my gums, I tried to focus my attention elsewhere since the word "gentle" apparently wasn't in her vocabulary. The term "dentist office music" wasn't coined for nothin'. The songs were horrible. And then came Dido. There is only one of her songs that I can tolerate and it's only because it's in one of my favorite movies, "Love Actually". This was not the song playing, but rather, it was the one about "I want to thank you for giving me the best day-ay of my life.". So, I started thinking about what would make up my "best day". I decided that Tuesday March 17, 2009 would be a Best Day for Stephanie Shuler.

Here's what I plan on doing so far:
1. An early morning run
2. A bubble bath
3. A spa pedicure
4. Coffee/journaling/reading at a random coffee house (TBD)
5. Laying out and catching some sun and possibly taking a nap in the process
6. Eating whatever the heck I want for dinner without concern for caloric intake
7. who knows what else?!!?!

It probably won't be the best day of my life, but it should be pretty good.

desert song

2009-03-14T10:51:00.003-06:00

This song pretty much sums up where I'm at right now. I have had this album for a while but this particular track has been on repeat for the past few days. Just when I think I can't love Hillsong anymore, they create something else that encourages me beyond belief. It also features Brooke Fraser and you know how much I love love love her (:
Enjoy.

Let's go, GNO!

2009-03-10T19:21:00.004-06:00

Anyone who teaches middle school or has been around kids in general is singing a Miley Cyrus song after reading my title ;)

Last Thursday, Tara organized a fun night for us girls at 'Color Me Mine'. It's such a fun place. You get to pick out a pottery piece and then paint it, put designs on it, etc. Thursday night is 'Ladie's Night' which means that ladies get 50% off studio fees and it's BYOW...fun for all! All of us made mugs except for Rachel. She was brave and branched out to do a little plate. Here are some pictures of the befores:

Tomorrow, I will post pictures of what they look like after the glaze process AND after being in the kiln. Ashley, the girl who worked at CMM, assured us that they would be darker when they were done...and she was right! I picked them up today and they all look great. But, since I don't have a camera, I will have to rely on someone to document the reveal of the final products. For a more detailed account of our evening, check out Tara's blog!

sneak peek of my future etsy store inventory

2009-03-04T20:10:00.006-06:00

Ok. Here are some of the onesies that I have been making. Any of these appliques can be put on onesies, tshirts, dishtowels, burpcloths, canvas bags, etc. They are fused onto the fabric and then handstitched to ensure that the applique is secure. Click on the pictures for more details! Anywhoo, these are some of the things I want to sell in my Etsy store. I have a whole list of other designs, in addition to monograms (thanks Mel!). Maybe these photos will help inspire y'all to help with a business name ;)

A Pear
Cupcake

the name game

2009-03-03T20:39:00.002-06:00

Hello again! Wow...two posts in one day. What a treat for my readers {insert sarcasm here}.

Anyway, I am making some aprons for Melissa and she thinks I need a designer name. Since I plan on starting an Etsy store in the next few months, a cute & catchy name would be great. So, shoot me some suggestions please (: Oh, and if you want to include my name in there, we decided that steph was catchier than stephanie.... :)

7 things do to before I turn 30

2009-02-24T19:07:00.005-06:00

One of my friends and former roommates, Claire, told me about this list she had made with 30 things to accomplish before she turns 30. When Claire told me about this, she was 23. I was 28. Darn it. I loved the idea but felt like it was too late to make a list of 30 things with less than two years to do it. Fast forward about 18 months. 30 is almost a mere six months away. Whoa. It's definitely not happening now.

Well, I was watching a Lifetime movie (shocking, I know) a couple of weeks ago called "7 Things to do Before I Turn 30". Now, the girl had made the list when she was in high school, but I thought that I could adapt it so that I could list 7 specific things to achieve in the next six months.

Here's the List:

1. Start an Etsy store. I would love to figure out a way to combine my new love of sewing and crafts with a way to make some extra money.

2. Learn how to serve a tennis ball. I took lessons for a few years but I've always had trouble serving. I am going to take some lessons and maybe even join a league or something. Tennis was such a fun part of my childhood and I didn't realize the other day how much I missed it!!

3. Take the GRE and start applying to grad school.

4. Run a 5k in 24 minutes or less.

5. Skydive.

6. Finally redo my fireplace!!!

7. Purchase a Roth IRA

I am bound and determined to cross all of these off of the list by Sept. 12 (:

thankful thursday

2009-02-19T21:18:00.002-06:00

I thought I would revive this tradition again, just for today. The best way to get out of a funk is to focus on all of your blessings. So here goes....

1. My little (not so little...he just turned 27!) brother, Matthew, is back safely from India. He will be in Dallas this Monday for about two weeks. My goal is to get him some dates...any takers ladies????

2. I have great people to work with. Honestly, I don't always enjoy teaching, but I am so thankful for wonderful colleagues who are great friends. That keeps me going each day.

3. Curly hair. Once again, I am reminded of how nice it is that I can just put some product in my hair and go to work while it dries. It may not always look great, but it is fine for work and that allows me some extra sleep. And that is always a good thing (:

4. Tomorrow is FRIDAY!!! I am so pumped for the weekend!! Nothing particularly exciting is happening, but I just need some time to rest. I'm looking forward to sewing a few test products for my future Etsy store. Good times!

help!!

2009-02-17T18:48:00.002-06:00

Is anyone watching "The Bachelor" this season? I shamefully admit that I have been sucked into this particular dark, dysfunctional, unrealistic-reality show. I actually care who stupid Jason chooses to be his wife in the "Most dramatic rose ceremony in 'Bachelor' history!" But friends, that is not why I need your help.

I am in a rut. A funk. Call it what you will, but I need to get out of it and start having some fun!!!

The reason I started this blog with a reference to the most ridiculous reality show ever was because last night, Jason 'The Bachelor' got rid of Jillian. I grew to like Jillian because I thought she was a fun girl who knew how to have fun while waiting for the next phase in your life. Additionally, the name 'Jillian' is on my girl-baby-name list(: But I digress. I basically need some ideas for fun things to do that will get me out of the house and allow me to meet some new people...and perhaps a new gentleman caller--haha. Sorry, I love Jane Austen so I had to work that term in there. But seriously, if I want to be living it up while I have the chance!!

My hobbies currently consist of running, sewing, reading, crafting, watching "Reba" (shout out to Tara and Claire), cooking, sleeping, and eating. If you notice the list, it is difficult to work these into social events outside of the 60-80 year old woman circle. When I was growing up, my main interests were sports. I tried the co-ed flag football league and the co-ed basketball league last year and had an okay time. I guess I need some new grown-up interests. It's difficult to get plugged in at church ever since my small group parted ways, but I don't think a new church is the answer (although I daydream about Sunday School classes and a Singles' ministry). My job is kind of limiting as far as meeting new people.

I hope this blog doesn't come across as desperate...because I'm not. But I just need to tap into some other minds because the creative ideas are eluding me. I'm open for suggestions and trying new things. I've thought of helping with Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and things like that. Has anyone had experiences with those?

I would love to have some fun adventures to enrich my life. Any ideas are most welcome (:

jumping on the bandwagon

2009-02-08T12:24:00.004-06:00

You've seen this all over Facebook, but I thought I would just do it on my blog. This way, I don't have to tag anyone. Pretty sure everyone has personally been tagged about 15 times each. So, Hillary, since you were the first one to tag me, this is for you!

1. I love drinks...coffee, tea, diet drinks, etc.
2. I probably cried about my super-curly hair daily from the age of 13-17. Not
even exaggerating there. Now, I sometimes cry about it for other reasons...
3. I don't think I come across as very maternal or nurturing, but all I want to be in life is a wife and mommy.
4. I love to watch cheesy Lifetime movies while working on other stuff around the house. Shoot, I love to watch just about anything on Lifetime...esp. 'Reba'.
5. I have always had three or four really close friends through most stages of my life. My theory is quality over quantity, which means I've never been popular.
6. I have a crazy memory for trivial things. My dream is to be on Jeopardy one day so I don't feel like reading all of those History books and 'People' magazines wasn't done in vain. I also remember people's names, where I met them, where I was when certain conversations were had, etc. It's borderline stalker-ish. It also makes me frustrated when people don't remember meeting me.
7. I was obsessed with Pete Sampras for about 8 years. I would hang his "Got Milk" ads in my locker at school, in my room at home and other places. I would watch him play tennis whenever I got the chance. I even wrote him a couple of letters when I was in 8th grade.
8. If i eat a bagel, I have to peel the outside 'crust' layer off first. Weird.
9. I played the violin for 5 years and took piano lessons for 6. I regret quitting both of those.
10. I have run a marathon and 5 half-marathons.
11. If I can't check my email several times a day I start to feel cut off from the world. Usually, I have nothing interesting in my inbox.
12. I want to live in the mountains someday.
13. I would like to have 3-4 kids.
14. I love cottage cheese and could eat it at least twice a day.
15. As much as I love cottage cheese and dairy, I am really interested in the vegan lifestyle.
16. My parents threw me a "Double-Dare" themed birthday party for my ninth b-day, complete with physical challenges and an obstacle course. It was AWESOME!!
17. I get uncomfortable when people ask me where I went to college.
18. My favorite movie is "Meet Joe Black".
19. I could read books when I was 4. Thanks, Mom!
20. I've never liked dolls or girly things, however, my bedroom growing up was full of Madame Alexander dolls and handmade porcelain ones that my grandmother made.
21. I need a lot of alone time or I start to feel stifled. It would be easy for me to become a hermit.
22. I've worked at Putt-Putt, Target, Cheddar's and a whitewater rafting shop. If I could make a living working at Rapid Transit Rafting, then I would do it in a heartbeat.
23. I hate looking in mirrors and avoid them after I have gotten ready for the day.
24. I like to drive a stick and don't enjoy automatic transmissions because my right hand doesn't know what to do.
25. I was also the antithesis of a procrastinator until a few years ago. I was the girl who would be done with her term papers at the end of the first week of each semester. Something has seriously changed, though. I don't like it....makes me feel out of control.

i'm just a little creeped out...

2009-02-03T22:20:00.005-06:00

....by this:

If you are interested in purchasing a pair of these earrings and learning more about them, then visit here. Sure, I get the irony of it all, but I still find them a tiny bit disturbing.

it's a right-handed world

2009-02-02T21:41:00.005-06:00

I have been working on some new crafts lately. One of the things I've been playing around with are little appliques. Tonight, I applied one of my creations to a onesie. To secure the applique, I attempted to do a blanket stitch. It gives it a more handmade look than the sewing machine and I like it. So, I watched a tutorial online to learn how to do this stitch. I watched, and I practiced. The stitch is supposed to look like an 'L'. Mine were not turning out so well. I watched the video again. And again. Then I practiced some more. Then I failed again.
Frustrated, I walked away from the project for a couple of hours. After getting tired of watching the ridiculousness that is "The Bachelor", I decided to turn off the TV and watch the video just one more time. As I watched, I realized that the lady demonstrating the stitch was right handed. Eureka! As a lefty, I as doing the stitch the same way but not getting the same effect because I was coming at it from the wrong direction. So, I tried doing the stitch just like the lady but in reverse and it worked...Hooray!!! Most of the time I love being left-handed. It is one of those things that makes you different from most of the population but without it being something weird like an eleventh toe. But, this little experience reminded me of some painful kindergarten memories. We only had right-handed scissors in that class so my cutting and pasting was always a little sub-par which drove me crazy. I am sure a counselor would pinpoint this moment as the beginning of my perfectionist personality--haha.

But I digress...

I'll try to get a picture of this project. Crafts and sewing have been such a release for me lately. I love love love creating stuff. Ultimately, I would love to figure out a way to parlay this into a side-job. There are a ton of Etsy shops out there, so I would need something really unique and special. Anyone have any ideas or want to go into business with me????

Aprons, aprons, and more aprons!!

2009-01-24T22:56:00.005-06:00

Hello friends! Yes, it's 11 pm on Saturday night and I am home blogging. Fear not--I am not becoming an agoraphobic spinster. Although, Paula Deen was agoraphobic for several years and she turned out okay. But I digress....I do have social plans tomorrow afternoon--a movie and dinner--with a boy. So there *grin*
I spent a good chunk of the day making aprons!!! I just love them. And I find sewing and the act of creating something practical so therapeutic. Here is a picture of my very first apron, modeled by the lovely Melissa:

Today, I found this super-cute Amy Butler fabric at a store in Lewisville.
I couldn't believe it--it is perfect for that 'vintage' look! I ended up making an apron out of it and I think I'll keep it for myself (: BUT, I made two more that were also cute so maybe I'll have a giveaway soon.

That's all for today. "Beauty Shop" just came on E! so I might just watch that for a while. I love that Queen Latifah and how she rocks her plus-size body with confidence!!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

no picture yet....

2009-01-22T20:51:00.002-06:00

...but I finished my first sewing project: an apron!!!!
Yes, it's true! I really made an apron on my little sewing machine. My mom spent most of last Friday with me and we played around and I watched her make a practice one. It was a fun time with her, but I was a little discouraged and thought that I could never do it. Well, I tried it on Monday and I guess the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. helped me along. I am kidding about MLK, but it did turn out better than I had hoped it would. It has mistakes, I'm sure. However, I am hoping that Melissa (the recipient of the apron) will not inspect it too closely (:
Anyway, we took some pictures last night of Melissa modeling her apron so I'll gladly share those as soon as I get them. I am loving to sew....sew (ha) let me know if you'd like to get on the apron list since that's pretty much all I can do right now!

simplify

2009-01-19T10:02:00.003-06:00

I am really motivated right now to de-clutter every area of my life. So, I am making some changes and please feel free to ask me how the process is going at any time to hold me accountable. I will need it (: So...I am making some specific goals and breaking them into categories.

Here are my financial goals:
I have always been pretty good with money. Perhaps that is because I grew up with a banker/CPA dad who led by example on how to save and be wise with finances. Lately, I feel like I've kind of been nickel-and-dime-ing a little too much. Those little purchases add up. I want to be fully aware of where my money is going and exactly how much I'm spending each week.

**No more new clothes purchases for the next 2 months. I will mix and match what I already
have and use some creativity with accessories.

**Eat at home except for maybe one meal out per week. I have been getting in a bad habit of
grabbing something at the last minute for dinner. A little forethought will keep this from
happening...like remembering to thaw out some chicken before I leave for work.

**Cash budget. Each week I'll get out a certain amount of money and once that is gone, it's
gone and I'm done spending.

**Use what I have already have. I have a TON of Bath and Body lotions, bath gels, sprays,
etc. I also have a lot of makeup that I need to use up (with the exception of my Bare
Escentuals--I have to replace that!). But, each Christmas my om buys me this little makeup
kit thing from Ulta with so many little eyeshadows and such. I could use these for probably
2 years without having to buy new makeup.

Personal Growth Goals
**Workout at least 5 days a week
**Eat healthy 80% of the time but allow for a few guilt-free splurges
**Train for another half-marathon and maybe shoot to do another full
**Spend less time on the computer or watching tv
**Get better at sewing
**keep a personal journal
**Write more handwritten letters
**Stay organized and know where everything is at all times
**Have more consistent quiet times
**Become more assertive and not care what other people think of me
**Get married (haha)

That's all I can think of now...I hope to look back on this in a year and see that I followed through on some of these things. I guess the title of "simplify" only really applies to the financial goals, but my hope is that I will slow down and take time to enjoy the people and things that are already around me.

a little bit of this...a little bit of that

2009-01-17T08:33:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was such a fun day. We didn't have to go to school, so that was the best part! Who would have thought that I would need another break so soon after Christmas? Well, I did (:

I popped right out of bed at 6 on my very own. As much as I wanted to stay in bed, I couldn't get back to sleep. So I worked out, got ready, and started out the day by running some errands. Most of the errands that I had to run were returning items. I HATE to return stuff. Mostly because the sales people kind of suspect that you have been less than honest about why you're returning things. As much as I hate returning things, I hate trying things on even more. Hence, the need to return.

Then I headed over to my mom's and we had a sewing day. ell, I basically just watched her teach me some basics about cutting out patterns, pinning, stitching, etc. It was a fun time with my mom. I do feel badly that I am just now becoming the little girl that she probably always wanted. I was a tomboy through and through and wanted nothing to do with dolls, crafts, sewing, etc. No that I'm almost 30, I am interested in this stuff!! Sorry Mom!

While I was with my mom, my dad called and wanted to take us out to dinner. Yesterday would have been my grandmother's 78th birthday and this is the first birthday since she passed away. So, we tried out a new restaurant in Flo Mo called Agave. It is owned by Tony Casillas, who some of you may remember from the Cowboys' glory days when they would win Super Bowls and stuff. The funniest moment of the night was while we were waiting, my mom and I walked over to Hobby Lobby to pick something up. When we returned, my dad said that they were handing out free margaritas because they don't have their liquor license yet and that I should get one because he was driving. Some of you don't know my parents but this was shocking! My parents have never had anything to drink and for them to suggest that I have one is unbelievable. I mean, I still can't get over it. So, I drank my free beverage with my parents and it was great! I feel like the door might be opening to tell them about a few other little things that I am not ashamed of but have been afraid to share. Anyway, the food was great and it was a fun night.

Today I am running a few more errands and am going to work on a sewing project that I will hopefully be able to post soon if it turns out as it should (:

blogs blogs blogs

2009-01-17T08:17:00.003-06:00

hi friends! I hope that no one got too depressed by my lack of posting these past couple of weeks (insert sarcasm here). I am back! And I really don't have a lot of fun things to share, but do have a few little random things.

One of the reasons I decided to take a break from blogs was because I realized that I kept having conversation that started with "Well, I was reading this blog...." or "So and so posted such and such" on her blog". The funny thing is that I sometimes don't even personally KNOW these people. However, I feel like I do because I read about their lives because they are so free in sharing it.

So, here are some favorite blogs from people who don't know me from Adam.

Bring the Rain--This one gets a lot of comments so I am sure some of you have seen it already. All I know is if you read the whole story of Audrey Caroline, you had better have a box of tissues handy.

Kelly's Korner--I found Kelly's blog a little over a year ago through someone else's. She has the cutest posts and I think I am encouraged by her because she was a little older when she got married (: Well, she had a lot of struggles with infertility but finally got pregnant and had her baby girl, Harper, yesterday. Harper is in very critical condition and my heart breaks for this sweet family, but they are praying and staying strong in their faith.

Pioneer Woman--This lady is hilarious! Her posts about life on her ranch are entertaining. I particularly enjoyed reading the story of her romance with "Marlboro Man". It takes a while to read through the whole thing, but it was so fun to read. I hear that her recipes are incredible, but i haven't tried any...yet.

So, go check some of these out. You'll laugh, you'll cry. Blogs are great fun but like everything else in life, moderation is key.

fast

2009-01-04T15:14:00.002-06:00

Over the past few days, I've realized that I'm a little too wrapped up in the blogosphere. So, I am taking a week off from writing blogs, reading blogs, Facebook, etc. Really, I want to only use my computer to check email.

I am looking forward to this break to use my time for other endeavors. I will be back soon with something exciting and fun (:

here's to a new year

2009-01-01T19:47:00.002-06:00

I don't have a lot that I want to blog about right now, but I thought I should start off the new year with a fresh post. This is just going to be random, but then again, I'm pretty random.

**I did get a sewing machine for Christmas and it's so cool. Now I have to learn how to make something!

**I am still sore from a weight-lifting class I took at the gym on Monday...what the heck?!?!?

**Allison came for a visit this past weekend and it was so fun! We made our annual trip to Starbucks, went shopping, ate at Blue Goose, and went to Pete's Piano Bar. Oh, and she introduced me to this cool website: http://frugal-fashionistas.com/

**I bought leggings. We'll see if I have the courage to ever wear them.

**Went to coffee and to the movies with Hollie O today. Bawled like a baby during "Marley and Me".

**I redecorated a wall in my room. Scrapbook paper is the best stuff ever!

**My Aunt Gina gave me an apron for Christmas...she had no idea about my recent fascination with them.

**I am having a sleepover with Emily and her 4 kiddos tomorrow night...fun!

**Tis the season for engagements. Congratulations to Melissa, Hillary and Brooke!

**I basically accomplished nothing on my Christmas-Break 'To-Do' list.

I am hopeful that this new year will bring a lot of great things. I hope for this every year, and great things do happen. But it's just not usually the things that I specifically hope or pray for at the beginning of each year. With all of that said, I am looking forward to a wonderful 2009 (:

i'm so excited!!!!

2008-12-23T21:22:00.003-06:00

I have a deep love for Amy Grant that goes back to when I was about 3 or 4 years old. My Aunt Gina and I would sing "Sing your praise to the Lord" together and it was always a hit for the family! Anyway, I discovered that Amy herself has a blog...yippee!! I know that Amy has been the subject of a lot of scrutiny in the Christian realm, and we don't know all of the details of her situations. And it's not our place to pass judgment. But I treasure so many of her songs, have been to numerous concerts, own just about every album, and I will always love her.

Here's the link if there are any more fans out there!!!
http://amygrant.typepad.com/

waxing philosophically

2008-12-23T14:09:00.004-06:00

I'm in search of the perfect skin-care regime. So, after some careful research, I went to Sephora today and bought this kit by Philosophy:

The description on the website says that you need this product if...
**you want to restore your skin's radiance
**you seek skin confidence
**you want to look 100% better wearing 50% less makeup
**you want your skin to look the best it has has ever looked

Um, yes please!!!

It's a little pricey but even having just used it once today, I like it. I will report back in a few weeks to see if I am really able to pull off the "makeup optional" claim (:

aprons

2008-12-21T16:32:00.003-06:00

Lately I have been obsessed with aprons. It started back in the spring when I saw some cute vintage aprons at a craft/antique mall. One of the reasons I have asked Santa for a sewing machine and want to learn how to sew is to be able to make them. I am convinced that people would love to get them for gifts!
So since parents are so hard to buy for, I decided to go with a 'theme' for my mom. (don't worry, they don't read the blog). The theme is "Things that you would not buy for yourself". So, I figured that one of the things I would get her is a fun apron.
I think that Melissa is the one who told me about Anthropologie having some cute ones. Off I went to the Shops at Willow Bend and I found a lot of cute aprons (and picked up a few other little gifts and a couple of plates for myself that were on sale). This is the apron that I bought for her, except that hers is turquoise and green:

Dad is getting the same boring stuff...gifts aren't his love language anyway so he really won't care (:

goals

2008-12-18T22:43:00.005-06:00

I cannot tell you how excited I am to have a two week break from school. Beginning at 12:30 tomorrow, am a free woman. Wahoo!
In order to not waste-away the time off, I am going to set some little goals for myself. Here are a few.

**Finish the 'Twilight" series. I just can't get into the third book but I need to know how it all ends so I can just be done with it!
**Do some kind of workout everyday. I will probably run a lot but I need to get back into the weights.
**Organize my closet for GOOD!!!
**Figure out to do with the third bedroom (and I might paint it)
**Get my hair cut and colored
**Deep clean my house
**Get my plate back (only a couple of you will understand this one!!!)

That's all I've got for now....good night!!!

God with us

2008-12-15T21:57:00.003-06:00

I must have sensed when I woke up this morning that today was going to be a heavy day for my heart. When I got dressed, I wore my little "Peace On Earth" long-sleeve T-shirt from Old Navy (everyone at school is wearing Christmas shirts with jeans). Then, I put my silver necklace on that has the word "Rest" engraved on it. When I paid for my coffee at Quik Trip, the cashier asked about me what my necklace meant. I simply told him that it was a reminder for me to just relax and to not worry about every piece of minutia. He then said, "And gurrrl, your shirt has the word 'peace' on it. You must really need to be reminded to chill out!" Thank you random convenience store man who can apparently see right into my soul.

So I went to school. Nothing went horribly wrong. In fact, it was a busy, but good day. My mind is so pre-occupied with things when I am there that I don't have time to obsess over my personal issues.

But something hit me on the way home and I suddenly was overwhelmed. I started crying. What was going on here??? That's not really like me at all.

Thoughts started flooding my mind about how I was all alone. I am just a teacher and school is the only thing I have in my life. And a lot of the time, I question whether I'm even good at teaching. I will never get married because I don't work hard enough to meet people and would rather stay at home and make crafts (ha). My friends care for me but will eventually move on into other phases of life and won't be able to relate to me. My health issues are getting worse (some of you know more about that than others--it's not serious, but causes cosmetic changes). I have made so many mistakes and am destined to fall into old patterns. People from my past will never believe that my life has been changed. And on, and on it goes.

In an effort to drown out the noise, I put on some music. My ipod was on shuffle, but the first thing that came on was "Emmanuel: God with us" off of Amy Grant's "Home for Christmas" album. (stop hating on Amy, Michelle ;)

The verses are not particularly powerful and the chorus is simple. But hearing "Emmanuel, God with Us" over and over again brought such comfort to me today. What an amazing truth to know that God is with us. It is something that I have heard for most of my life but today, my heart took refuge in knowing that He is here. All of the time. With me. With you.

Nothing has magically changed. I will still battle thoughts of fear and inadequacy. I will still struggle with disappointment and dreams that are locked-down in a holding pattern for an indefinite amount of time. But I do not have to battle them alone. I am so thankful to have been given a simple reminder during this season about how the Word became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14).

i should be sleeping

2008-12-14T22:10:00.002-06:00

However, I'm still awake and watching the Cowboys. ***By the way, if you go to the Lewisville Albertson's on a game day and wear a jersey, you get 10% off of your purchase***

The weekend just flew by and I really feel that I have anything to show for these past two days. However, I guess it's important to rest up and prepare for the LAST SCHOOL WEEK of 2008. Wahoo!!

My roommate, Corrie, ran the White Rock Half today. I was going to do it but waited too late to register. Apparently, they had to close it down this year! So, I was sad that I couldn't do it but decided today that I am going to enter one race a month. It looks like the first one will be the "Too Cold to Hold" in January. It's a 15k. Anyone interested? After that, I think I'll do the Cowtown half marathon at the end of February. So, that's that! I have got to get serious about amping up the workouts if I want to achieve my purely superficial goal of being hot-at-30. ;)

Just a little update on the "hope deferred". Yes, Rebekah--it involved a boy. But, I am really at such peace about my decision and God has been so sweet. I am just trying to remember that He is better. But, it's still sucks sometimes.

This blog is a bit random but what can I say? I was just in the mood to blog. Oh wait! The Cowboys just scored again!! This game is going better than expected.

Ok. Hope you all have a great week!!

i'm it!!

2008-12-13T22:56:00.004-06:00

Melissa tagged me with this fun little Christmas Survey, so here goes....

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? gift bags....i can't properly wrap a present to save my life. My brother, Matthew, always has to wrap my presents for me.
2. Real tree or Artificial? artificial. I am too afraid of a fire with the real ones.
3. When do you put up the tree? The Friday or Sat. after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? after New Year's
5. Do you like eggnog? Yes. I first tried it during a Hall meeting in college. I have never had "real" eggnog, though. Just the stuff from the grocery store
6. Favorite gift received as a child? I would have to say my ten speed bike when I was about 10 years old.
7. Hardest person to buy for? Parents
8. Easiest person to buy for? Matthew
9. Do you have a nativity scene? I had a little ceramic one but I recently broke the Baby Jesus. He is kind of an important part of that whole thing so I took everything else down :(
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? By mail
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? silk, flowered lounging pajamas. Seriously, they look like something Bea Arthur would wear on the "Golden Girls".
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. I just watched it last night with Hillary and Martin ;)
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Good question. Usually the day before Christmas Eve. Matthew and I buy our parents' gifts together but I have to wait for him to get into town. We don't really have anyone else to buy for so that's about it!
14. Have you ever re-gifted a Christmas present? No
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I just kind of graze on the snack foods....party trash, these little cheese crackers, and my Aunt Gina's caramel corn.
16. Lights on the tree? White
17. Favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? stay home fo sho
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Rudolph, Donner, Blitzen, Cupid, Vixen, Dancer, Prancer, Comet...is that all??? And no, I did NOT Google.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?people just seem to be shorter with you at the stores...everyone seems to lose perspective on the reason for Christmas
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I have a teal/aqua/light blue theme on the tree. I am kind of anti-red & green
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? I guess green bean casserole or stuffing...again, I'm a snacker!
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? a sewing machine

I tag.......Emily, Michelle, Tara, and Dawn!!!

i am second

2008-12-13T10:50:00.003-06:00

I heard about this website, iamsecond.com a while back but didn't check it out until today. I ended up watching several of these little videos and I *might* have gotten a little choked up at times.

Some of the featured people are:
Josh Hamilton (of the Texas Rangers)
Jason Castro (from last season's American Idol)
Brian Welch (he used to be in Korn)
Tony Evans
Stephen Baldwin...
...and then just some 'regular' people sharing their story like in this video.
Something about that particular one really resonated with me today.

It is encouraging to hear the stories of what God has done in each of these people's lives. So, check it out!

a good day

2008-12-10T22:49:00.006-06:00

Today started off a little rough. Let's just say that it was pretty stinkin' hard to get my butt out of bed. I am sure that I am not the only one who longs for a few extra minutes in the morning so they can snuggle with their ~~significant other~~ blankets.

But, I had to get up. The future of America was counting solely on me to teach them about finding the percent of a number. Oh, what a purpose I had today!!

I threw on my school sweatshirt and jeans, slapped on a paw-print sticker (you have to have this on in order to wear the jeans), and threw my hair in a ponytail. Being comfortable made the whole 'up and at em' thing a little more tolerable.

My first class was fine. They actually understood what I was teaching them...yea! Then we went to lunch and today, our district gave us BONUS checks! I think this is unheard of in the realm of education. We knew it was coming but what great timing. So, I was very happy to receive this 'gas stipend' and even happier when I realized that only $7.95 had been taken out of it for medicare. Woo-hoo!!!

Despite getting nauseated and throwing up during my 4th period class (this has happened 3 times this year in this particular class--weird), the rest of the day was great.

When I got home I found more money waiting for me: my rebate gift card from Walgreen's and a $125 check in return for attending a summer teaching conference. Good stuff...

To top off a great day, Melissa and Hillary came over to make some Christmas cookies. It's always good times with these girls. Their friendship has blessed my life so much and it's so great to have friends who *know* you, junk and all.

Sadly, the cookies were not near as cute as we had hoped. (See pictures below). Apparently we did not flatten the dough enough. Guess I need to put "rolling pin" on my Christmas list.

All that to say, things are looking up. I'm thankful for the little monetary surprises and for fabulous friends (even when i find out they have a secret pre-marital book club--just kidding, girls)

Here are some pics...enjoy!!!

My cookie and me. The red dots are ornaments--don't judge me, people!
Hillary and her 'special' star
Melissa and me making frosting--check out that mixer in action!!
Melissa getting excited about our baked goods...apparently she hadn't looked at them closely yet
Bonus points if you can guess what shapes these are supposed to be!!!
Melissa and her new friend

hope deferred

2008-12-07T23:00:00.002-06:00

It really is true what the Bible says in Proverbs 13:12: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick". Today, I had to let go of a situation that I had hoped would have a different outcome. But instead of getting what I had longed for, I have a sad little heart. I know it will be fine and that I will one day look at this and see how the Lord spared me from something far worse, but it still hurts.

However, tomorrow is a new day and as it says in Lamentations 3:22-23, "Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Amen.

day of disasters

2008-12-06T19:14:00.004-06:00

It is 7:15 on Saturday night and I am in my pajamas watching another installment of Fa-la-la-la-Lifetime. The current movie is kind of a modern, holiday-themed take on the 'Parent Trap'. Very riveting.

Anyhow, I just don't have the energy to do anything else tonight after the day I've had. It started out nicely enough. I put some mulling spices on the stove, showered, straightened my hair, and had some coffee. Then, I kind of smelled a burning odor and thought that I must have left my flat iron on. Nope. It was turned off. As I opened my bedroom door, I saw that the living room filled with smoke. The mulling spices were literally on fire! Worried that my house was going to smell like smoke forever, I opened up every window and Googled "ways to get smoke smell out of house". The most positive sounding solution was to boil vinegar and to set out little bowls of vinegar all of the house. Apparently, vinegar absorbs smells. **Sidenote--I have previously blogged about my love for vinegar, but I have a whole new appreciation for it after this incident, as well as another miracle it performed earlier in the week**

The smoke smell is still here a little bit, but it's going away. I'm hoping that it will be gone tomorrow for good.

After the stovetop debacle, I decided to engage in some crafting while closely monitoring the boiling vinegar. The other day, I purchased this neat little rotary blade that has interchangeable blades. I wanted to use the decorative one to add some flair to some cards. As I was changing the blade, I cut my thumb with the tool. It stung a little but I have a pretty good threshold for pain. My finger started to bleed. Not just a little bit, but a lot. Gushing would be a better way to describe it. I applied some pressure to it, but nothing. It was just blood, blood, and more blood. My stupid thumb bled for about 30 minutes--ridiculous.

Anyway, I had just about all the fun that I could handle so I'm calling it a night. Today was kind of indicative of how my week at school went. Here's hoping that next week is much, much better. (:

thursday thanks: the thanksgiving edition

2008-11-28T12:19:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. This hasn't always been the case, but something shifted after I went off to college. Yesterday wasn't anything extraordinary, but it was good.
I gave thanks for:

Mashed potatoes
Trash (it's the fabulous version of Chex mix that my mom makes)
Sister Schubert's rolls (they are in the freezer section..check them out!!!)
Football
Throwing the football with Dad and Matthew ( i must say that my spirals were especially good--ha)
Getting to spend time with Matthew before he heads off to India for a few months
Crafting with my Mom
Getting a Silpat for my baking (thanks Mom!)
Good running weather
The official beginning of the Christmas season....

...and that's just one day! I am one blessed gal...my cup runneth over (:

periodicals

2008-11-25T14:12:00.003-06:00

I love magazines. Always have. If there is a good selection of them at a doctor's office, I don't even mind the wait. When I was in jr. high/high school and went to the central library to gather info. for school papers, I would spend most of my time reading back issues of 'People' instead. As much as I would love to subscribe to several at a time, I now only get two: Runner's World and Cottage Living.

Yesterday, something changed. 'Glamour' magazine magically appeared in my mailbox with my name on it. There was Keira Knightley looking right back at me. Then today, it was Nicole Kidman on next's month 'Glamour' cover. What?!?!? I have never bought this magazine, much less subscribed. This same thing happened last year when I got US Weekly for about 6 months for free. I constantly checked to make sure I wasn't being charged, but I could not figure it out why I was getting them for the life of me. I am not complaining...just puzzled (:

Is anyone else having this issue???

too good not to share

2008-11-24T20:45:00.002-06:00

I struggle with this, I do. But this quote really hit home with me tonight in the midst of a little 'pity party'.

"Self-pity sounds self-sacrificing. The reason self-pity does not look like pride is that it appears to be needy. But the need arises from a wounded ego, and the desire of the self-pitying is not really for others to see them as helpless, but as the hero. The need self-pity feels does not come from a sense of unworthiness, but from a sense of unrecognized worthiness. It is the response of unapplauded pride." ~ John Piper

next to godliness

2008-11-24T19:59:00.004-06:00

Well, over the last year or so, I've experimented with different household cleaners. I've tried making my own detergent, sprays, and soaps. I guess I got kind of freaked out about all of the chemicals floating around, so I thought it would be easier to start getting into these habits now so I'd be ready ~~if kids~~ when kids come into the picture. We wouldn't want their little mouths and bodies to be ingesting chemicals, now would we?

I love this little spray cleaner...it is fantastic! I checked this book out from the library last spring and put this little concoction together. It smells so great and costs pennies. Oh, and the peppermint soap is so refreshing--you can even use it for an invigorating body wash.

Peppermint All-Purpose Spray
2 cups warm water
2 T of Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Magic Soap (you can even find this at kroger's or a health food store)
2 T of white vinegar
4 drops of orange oil
4 drops of patchouli oil

My next favorite thing is vinegar. If you pour a little white vinegar into your washer with your detergent, it makes for an awesome fabric softener. And no, you don't smell like salad dressing...the smell isn't noticeable at all. But, you will notice the softness of your clothes.

For dishwasher/dishsoap, I just use Seventh Generation products. I have been pleased with the results. What finally made me switch was thinking about those chemicals going onto the plates/silverware/cups that I eat/drink with. Kind of scary, huh?

Now, I'm not one of those "green" fanatics. However, I do think that's important to be mindful of all of the unnatural stuff in our midst. All of those chemicals can't be all that good. Ok...now go make some of that spray--you won't be sorry!!!

music that gets me in the mood....

2008-11-20T21:50:00.002-06:00

...for Christmas, that is (:

With the holidays approaching, I can't help but think about some of my favorite Christmas music. So, here they are in no particular order.

1. Amy Grant
I love "Tennessee Christmas" and the later release, "Home for Christmas". Both are great and hold so many special memories. Does anyone else remember the Amy Grant Christmas specials on TV?!?!?! One year, she had 98 Degrees on there....way before the days of 'Newlyweds' (:

2. The Carpenters
The life of Karen Carpenter ended so tragically. However, my family LOVES The Carpenters "Christmas Portrait" CD. It is ah-mazing!! I always felt a connection with Karen because she has such a rich, alto voice. Oh, it's just awesome and a true classic...check it out!

3. Steve Tyrell
Ok. I first heard Steve's version of "The Way You look Tonight" on 'Father of the Bride'. But, it wasn't until I was on a college field trip to a Civil War battle field in Arkansas (yes, you read that correctly) that I heard Steve's stuff for the first time. Now, the CD "A New Standard" is not Christmas music. BUT---I have always dreamed of dancing with that 'special someone' around the Christmas tree while listening to these old, classic songs.

So, those are some of my favorites...please feel free to share some of yours!!!

thursday thanks

2008-11-20T19:49:00.005-06:00

This edition of 'thursday thanks' is going to be pertaining to Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving...it's my favorite holiday by far. So, here are three things that I love about the fourth thursday in November (:

1. Fried Turkey
Well, I'm a little bummed because my dad told me the other day that peanut oil was about $50 a vat. So, we're not having the fried turkey this year. I am sad about it but am hopeful that Dad will be back with the fryer next year in all of his glory.

2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
I love this movie and I love watching it with my family. Yes, it is irreverent at times. But, we always watch the edited version. No one can deny how utterly hilarious this movie is. Not even my sweet little mom who shakes her head at us when we watch it but laughs through the whole thing (:

3. Family
What can I say...I love my immediate family! My Dad is so incredibly witty that it brings it out in the rest of us. And my sweet, amazing little brother will be home before he heads out to India for the next 2.5 months. And my mom. She is such a wonderful example of a gody wife who loves to serve her family. I love how whenever she emails me, she signs it "love you forever, Mom". What a great family I have!!

p.s. I am also thankful that my friend, Emily, started a blog. She is a dear friend from high school and has 4 adorable children. I want to be just like her when i grow up (:

alley etiquette

2008-11-19T17:42:00.002-06:00

Until I bought my house, I had never driven in an alley. Now, it is a daily part of my life. I have lately encountered a little bit of a problem: who yields to whom in an alley??!?!?! Because I am scared of confrontation and want to please everyone (read: pushover), I do all of the yielding when another car is coming at me.

So here are some questions that I would love some feedback on...
1. Is there a right or wrong side to enter an alley?
2. Is there a rule about who should pull aside when two cars are driving in opposing directions?
3. What is an acceptable speed limit for alley driving?

Yes, this a riveting topic. I promise to bring you something a little better tomorrow (:

say what?!?!?!?

2008-11-18T19:42:00.003-06:00

Dear Random Expectant Mother from the Tom Thumb parking lot,

When I left my humble abode to head to the grocery store, I was on a mission: to get a South Beach Diet Pizza and ranch dressing. I had no malicious intentions on prohibiting you from 'pulling through' into a parking space. I simply chose a space that was available and somewhat near the entrance. It was purely coincedental that you also chose a space that was directly across from mine. Although I am sure that being a working, pregnant lady is exhausting, I don't think that yelling at me in a public parking lot was necessary. As you pointed out, I am sure that it is difficult to back up in a Suburban, hence your desire to 'pull through'. And yes, I do drive a "tiny little clown car" so I cannot fully relate to the challenges that you face in that area (but thank goodness for car mirrors). And no, as you also pointed out, I am not familiar with the ins and outs of pregnancy. However, I would like to remind you that Tom Thumb even has special spots designated especially for you expectant mothers.
Thank you for attempting to publicly embarrass me at my neighborhood store tonight. You might enjoy knowing that I enjoyed every bite of my pizza tonight despite said 'incident'.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Shuler

even though i strongly dislike birds...

2008-11-17T21:57:00.003-06:00

....i thought that this layout was too cute and fun for Thanksgiving. Maybe birds are okay with me if they are just in cartoon form (:

thursday thanks

2008-11-13T20:26:00.005-06:00

This will be short and sweet...I am super tired and it's only 8:30. However, that seems to be the norm these days!

1. Coffee
I never understood how glorious coffee was until I went off to college. It was there that I slowly developed my love for it. I started out with Big Trains at Nordaggio's. Gradually, I worked my way up to lattes and now, I like plain ol' coffee with just a itty bit of cream. I love starting my day off with a nice, hot cup.

2. Rebekah
Rebekah is one of those friends who I haven't seen in 4 years, but I still feel so close to her nonetheless. Whenever we chat on the phone, we don't miss a beat. She's married now and lives in Australia. It is my goal to visit her in Townsville someday. I really, really miss her and she's one of the funniest people I know. Here is a picture of our last weekend together (she's the one right next to me)

Love you friend.

3. Marco
I love this little guy. He's so loving, snuggly, and faithful. We've been together for almost 4 years and while he still has some bad and/or annoying habits, he is the greatest little dog I could have ever asked for. You can read more about our love story here. Te amo, mijo.

ice, ice baby

2008-11-12T17:44:00.006-06:00

If you were looking forward to a post dedicated to Robert van Winkle, aka "Vanilla Ice", then I am sorry to disappoint. Instead, this is a post dedicated to all things Iceland.

What do you think of when someone mentions Iceland???

Do you think of Bjork...and this infamous dress????

Do you think of how the country is going bankrupt???
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/10/09/business/icebank.php

Or do you think of really nothing at all????

Well, let me tell you about my favorite Icelandic thing: Sigur Ros.

I first heard this group about 3 years ago and liked it just fine but was in a different musical "phase" of my life. Lately, I have rediscovered these musicians from Iceland and it's all want to play on my iPod to and from work. Some of my favorites are 'Glosoli', 'Andvari', and 'Fljotavik'. It's a little different...but check it out (:

new obsession

2008-11-10T20:25:00.004-06:00

Yogurt has always been a favorite of mine. And, it's healthy to boot! This summer, Hollie O. introduced me to plain nonfat frozen yogurt. I was skeptical of the 'tang', but it is so good when you mix it with fruit and granola. After trying it at Bliss with Hollie, I hadn't had a chance to eat it again. But, after the Mud Run, I swung by and got some yogurt goodness. Then today, I braved the rain and the fog to try out a new place right by my house called Yogurteria. It was so great too! The only problem is that it's on the way home from my gym. Hmmm...this doesn't really help the aformentioned six pack that I'm aspiring to have.

weekend update

2008-11-10T18:51:00.006-06:00

Happy Monday! I don't really have that much to write about but thought I would document this past weekend. As most of you know, I like to keep things low key and rest. I was still able to do that, however, I also enjoyed hanging out with some friends.
Friday night, Hollie came over and we enjoyed some pizza, conversation about dumb boys, and perhaps an adult beverage was drunk (: It was good to catch up!

Saturday morning, I grabbed a pumpkin spice latte, drove to Hillary's apartment, and hopped in the backseat of Marty's car with Melissa. Melissa and I went to cheer on the happy couple as they did the Mud Run. Races usually inspire me and make me want to join in. Well, not this one. Those two crazy kids ran a 10k in camo pants and combat boots. AND, they had to do all of these crazy obstacles along the way. I wish I had an 'after' picture, but here is a before of Hill and her two biggest fans:

** *note to self--Must work on posture***
The weather Saturday was beautiful and I enjoyed being outside and watching the race. I was also motivated to get super-serious about diet and exercise after seeing the most incredibly flat, cut abs on one of the female winners. I work out a lot and am a fairly good eater, but I could do sooo much better. So, my new sole purpose in life is to get a six pack...ha.

The rest of the weekend was spent sleeping in, talking with my brother who won't be home for Christmas (*tear*), getting some great buys at Bath and Body, going to church, and planning out my Christmas gifts. I have decided this year to make all of my gifts. My brother laughed when I told him this and asked if I was going to be decorating orange juice cans with popsicle sticks. Very funny, Matthew. Just to clear things up, I purchased this Martha Stewart magazine that is all about Christmas crafts and can't wait to get going. Some girls from work are wanting to join in the fun and have a craft party...all of you CVMS peeps are invited ;)

Well, that's all I've got. I have decided that it is going to be a great week and I'm loving this rain right now...just hope my little hail-damaged roof can hang in there (:

Thursday Thanks

2008-11-06T20:51:00.004-06:00

Well, tis the season to start thinking about my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving. I love everything about it: the weather, the food, family, football, and reflecting on my many blessings. So, I decided that every Thursday I will blog about 3 people/events/things I am thankful for. It is so easy for me to focus on what I don't have so I want to focus on how great my life really is so I don't take anything for granted.
So, here goes!!!

1. Melissa and Hillary
These girls are so special to me. I have always had a small group of close friends at a time rather than a bunch of people I know on a surface level. Both of these girls are amazing and I look forward to our *almost* weekly meetings. These girls challenge me, make me laugh, and are completely transparent....I love you girls! JJ and Marty are lucky guys ;)

2. Running
I am so thankful for the ability to run AND that I enjoy it. I love the clarity that I get when I run. This is what keeps me going when I want to give up or am tired. Earlier in the school year, I went to a cross country meet and saw a guy there who was watching on the sidelines. He was a double amputee and was confined to his wheelchair. While he seemed to have a great attitude, I couldn't help but think that he'd probably give anything to be able to move like those kids were.

3. Fall
I just love this season. I have documented it here, here, and here.

Stay tuned for next week's edition!!!

shout out

2008-11-05T23:53:00.002-06:00

One of the things that I have loved the most about where I work is the people that I work with. I have gone through different seasons with different coworkers and some of those relationships have fizzled out. However, this year, I have so enjoyed eating lunch with a particular group of girls. One of those gals is Tara and I have loved getting to know more about her, her life, and about her sweet baby boy, Lane. Today, I found out that she's a blogger...who knew?!?!?!
So fun (: I am so blessed to work with amazing people each day!!!

i'd rather be in stars hollow

2008-11-02T20:00:00.008-06:00

I have spent several hours over the past seven days watching "Gilmore Girls". I have such fond memories of sitting around and enjoying this show with my mom AND my dad while I was home from college. We loved the witty repartee, unique bond between Rory and Lorelei, and the quaint little town that they lived in. So, the other day while doing loads of schoolwork, I pulled out Season One. It made grading and lesson planning on a Saturday so much better (:

This weekend, I started with Season Two and am just loving it all over again. I'm sad that the show had to end, but am grateful that it will live on forever on DVD (:

Fiesta!!

2008-10-26T15:50:00.003-06:00

I know I just posted some recipes, but here are a couple more that are super easy and yummy.
My Mom started making these enchiladas a few years ago and they are always a hit. I made them the other night for a friend, along with this "Killer Queso" recipe that my Aunt Gina gave me recently. The great thing about the enchiladas is that you can make them ahead of time and then just put them in the oven when you're ready. You can even freeze them if you'd like.

Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
2-3 large cans, pkgs., or fresh chicken equaling same
8 Oz. cream cheese, softened
1 regular size picante (Pace size) I actually like the Pace Chipotle kind if you can find it, but any will do.
1 lb. Velveeta, cubed and melted
1 or 2 cans mild enchilada sauce
flour tortillas

Mix the cooked chicken with 1/2 bottle picante sauce and the cream cheese. Place some of chicken mixture onto a tortilla and roll it up. Place seam side down into a baking dish. I use a 9 x 13. Usually I end up with about 10 of these enchiladas. Then, melt the Velveeta and add the remaining picante sauce and the enchilada sauce altogether. Pour that mixture over the enchiladas and bake until hot and bubbly (I cover these with foil). Then, bake between 20 - 35 minutes depending on your oven and if they were cold when you started. Try 350 degrees. You can serve as is or garnish with a little grated cheese (let it melt right at the end) and/or some green onions or fresh cilantro or whatever you can think of! You can vary the "heat" by using milder or hotter picante and milder or spicier enchilada sauce.

Killer Queso!!!
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can rotel
4-8 oz. of green chiles
1 tbl minced jalepenos
1 tsp cumin
1 envelope of ranch dressing mix
3/4 cup evaporated milk
1 lb. Velveeta
1/4 cup minced cilantro
4 oz jar of pimentos

Mix everything except Velveeta and cilantro. Heat it until it's bubbly. Add cubed Velveeta and stir in the cilantro. That's it!!!

So maybe someone out there in the blogosphere will try these recipes and enjoy. Let me know if you try them! I would love to do a recipe exchange of some sort and expand my repertoire. I am holding fast to the belief that if I cook it, he will come. haha (:

love me some pumpkin

2008-10-24T20:55:00.003-05:00

I love pumpkin. I love that fall celebrates pumpkins. I, for one, enjoy eating it all year round as a vegetable. But, I have some favorite recipes that I bust out during this season. Right now, I am making these (and yes, I used my fabulous new mixer!!):

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies...these are so good and have more of a 'cake' consistency
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups semisweet chocolate
chips
DIRECTIONS:
1. Combine pumpkin, sugar, vegetable oil, and egg. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Dissolve the baking soda with the milk and stir in. Add flour mixture to pumpkin mixture and mix well.
2. Add vanilla, chocolate chips and nuts.
3. Drop by spoonful on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for approximately 10 minutes or until lightly brown and firm.

And this is great for a snack!
Pumpkin Dip (great with fruit or gingersnaps)
1 8oz. pkg. Cream cheese,
softened2 cups confectioners sugar
1 (15 oz) can solid pack pumpkin
1 TBL ground cinnamon
1 TBL pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp frozen orange juice concentrate
Blend together cream cheese and confectioners sugar in one bowl. In another bowl, mix pumpkin, spices and orange juice. Thoroughly mix in the cream cheese blend. Chill until serving.

Hope you enjoy The Pumpkin as much as I do!!

wedding? I don't need no stinkin' wedding

2008-10-16T20:17:00.005-05:00

Well, here is what is now sitting on my kitchen counter:

If you read this post, then you'll know why I am so pumped about this. Thank you, Parents, for this belated birthday gift! And thank you, Em, for encouraging me to just get one of these already (:

when did i get so old?

2008-10-02T22:47:00.002-05:00

This morning I woke up at 4:30 a.m.
Willingly, mind you.
I showered.
Put my robe on.
Made coffee.
Read up on my current events via my favorite sites: Foxnews.com, Cnn.com, Drudgereport.com, and usatoday.com
Ate oatmeal because it's high in fiber and helps lower my bad cholesterol.
Started a meal in the crock pot so that it would be ready for dinner when I got home.
Applied Anti-wrinkle serum.
Then applied Neutrogena Skin Firming Moisturizer with Active Copper. Does anyone know what active copper is? I sure don't but it sounded good on the commercial.
I then wondered how I could be developing wrinkles while still getting zits. Why doesn't anyone tell you that wrinkles and blemished can coexist? I thought one was supposed to cancel out the other.
Then I paid some bills online.
Drank some more coffee.
Learned some more about this bank/financial crisis.
Went to work.
Had a discussion at lunch about the dangers of salt. Did you know that too much salt is taxing on your kidneys and liver? I'm going to have to try to cut it out but I consider sodium to be its own food group.
Said all sorts of things I swore I never would to some kids like, "too bad, so sad", "you should have thought about that before you came to class", "Life's not fair", etc.
Bought ANOTHER shower gift...this time for my cousin's baby shower.
Got excited about the Vice-presidential debate.
Ate some of my crockpot chicken and dumplings.
Contemplated becoming a vegan again.
Took a cat nap.
Watched the debate.
Called my dad to discuss said debate, economy, and my wedding...ha. (Really, i was just re-negotiating the price that he's offered me to not have one should the Lord tarry and I actually find someone to marry)
And now, I'm going to bed.

But the big question is....who am I and where did days of living footloose and fancy-free go?!?!?!?!?!??!

single serving

2008-10-01T20:49:00.004-05:00

**Disclaimer: This is not a blog intended to evoke pity, but rather, an observation on traditions, etc.

OK. Good. Glad I got that warning out of the way (:
Tonight, I went to the store to buy yet another wedding shower gift. Now, I kind of enjoy the process of looking at the registry and coming up with the perfect gift to fit my single-gal budget. I feel grown up, and I especially feel adult-ish when I am buying baby gifts. That's when the whole "Wow, I'm old enough to have friends with kids!" thing kicks in.
Every time I buy one of these gifts, I selfishly wonder if I will ever be on the receiving end of a bridal registry. And there is really only one thing I dream
about: the Kitchen Aid Mixer.

Now, here's the dilemma. Being as though I am 29 and own a house, I have already acquired a lot of household items: Cutlery, plates, Le Creuset cookware, a crock pot, steamer/rice cooker, pans, pots, casserole dishes, etc. So, the question is....do I keep adding things to my home or hold out in the hopes that one day I'll be able to register for them? Do I spend the next few years using my sad little hand mixer, or do I treat myself to the real-deal right now since whether I'll ever get married is unknown?

Again, this is not a 'woe is me' post about my solitude. Sure, I have those every-so-often, but I think it's completely normal. I think the thing that bothers me the most is that I am constantly having people trying to comfort me with their wisdom of how singleness is just as wonderful as marriage if that's the season the Lord has you in blah blah blah. Sometimes I believe that. But, if it's so great--and IF you are called to a lifetime of singleness--why isn't there a celebration of that? Do single people not need to create homes and foster their gifts of hospitality with the help of said mixer? And it's not really about the gifts, but rather, the acknowledgment that the Lord's purposes for my life as a single are just as exciting and worth celebrating as the gals who are getting married.

Just something to chew on courtesy of my latest trip to Bed, Bath & Beyond (:

wish list

2008-09-28T19:56:00.007-05:00

I have been thinking lately of all of the fun things that I can do to make my humble little abode a bit more cozy. Don't get me wrong--I love my house. But, I am starting to think of little house projects that I hope to be able to do within the next year or so.

1. Hardwood Floors
I wish to put something like this in my dining room, living room, and hallway.

2. Scrape popcorn ceilings

I have grown accustomed to the popcorn, but I would love to get rid of it someday. The popcorn just dates the home.

3. Cover the pink marble fireplace with Faux austin stone. Ah, I have dreamed about this for a long time but can't find anyone who actually knows how to install it!
Here is the only picture of the fireplace now (please ignore my pose and the decorations on the marble)

And here's what I want to cover it with:

So, a girl can dream. I'm not sure how I am going to pay for all of this but it is sure is fun to have a goal to save towards.

bouquets of sharpened pencils

2008-09-22T20:43:00.002-05:00

I love when Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks are emailing back and forth in "You've Got Mail" and they start talking about all the things they love about fall. That's where my little title comes from. Being a teacher and being as though autumn is my favorite season, I just love the image that those words create.

Fall is officially here, even though it feels nothing like it outside. Here are some things I especially enjoy about this season:
The Pumpkin (including but not limited to Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Creamy Pumpkin Oatmeal, Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, pumpkin dip, and just plain pumpkin as a side dish...yum) .
Hoodies. Enough Said.
Soup.
Football games.
Awesome running weather.
The FW Turkey Trot.
Knowing that Thanksgiving and the Holidays are right around the corner.
Leaves changing colors
...and I am sure I could think of much, much more.

Now, speaking of "You've Got Mail", I've had a development take place in my life that makes that movie really hit home. No, it's not online dating, but rather, the corporate takeover. My own personal "Shop Around the Corner" aka, The Health and Athletic Center, has been taken over by Lifetime Fitness. I am so sad. I love the HAC because they have a dress code, low rates, and amazing classes. Lifetime is twice the price and they only have two step classes. The family atmosphere at the HAC is what I love and I'm not intmidated by the people who work out there OR by the instructors. So, I guess I will be in the market for a new gym, but nothing really excites me. What a dilemma. Maybe I'll just bust out The FIRM dvd's that I did for years. We'll see.

twenty-nine

2008-09-15T21:07:00.003-05:00

Wow. 29 years.

3 days into it and I don't know what to think.

My first thought is that 30 is just around the corner.

Everyone keeps telling me that "30 is the new 25" or something like that.
I am not sure.

To me, I feel like I only have 361 days left to mark off a list of things off a 'list' that I have made in my head for the past 10 years or so.

But, so many of those things are out of my control.

Marriage, kids, etc.

Sometimes it seems like I have been running in a marathon but am barely moving and about to just join the spectators on the sidelines.

Sometimes I think it's not that big of a deal.

It's not a race.

I am not losing.

Maybe I am just running in a different race.

It's not inferior.

God does not love me any less.

Or anymore.

I wish I could cling to that truth at all times.

Comparisons aren't good.

But it's a hard habit to break.

So I am deciding that 29 is going to be great.

Perhaps not the 'great' I've had in my mind for the past decade.

But my 29 is not a Plan B.

Thank you Jesus for 29 years.

And for a family that loves me.

And for friends who accept the real me.

For my house.

My job.

Little sixth grade lives to influence daily.

And for holding me even when I can't feel your arms wrapped around me.

Here's to 29...

will i ever learn???

2008-09-06T09:55:00.003-05:00

I am not what you would call an impulsive person. Most decisions I make are fairly well thought out and the result of much deliberation. There have been times, however, where I act on a whim. Most of these times involve my hair. Now, those of you very close to me know the hair drama that has ensued over the past three years (thank you thyroid). But this has nothing to do with that.

Last night, I decided that I would get a haircut Saturday morning...just a trim. I had a coupon and my mom had just gotten her hair cut at this same little place. Her hair looked good so I figured it was worth a shot. I mean, all I really wanted was an inch-and-a-half trim. Just enough to clean up the ends. I've been on this new crusade to grow my hair out to where it's past my shoulders when it's curly. Well, let's just say that that dream will not be coming to fruition anytime in the next two years. Apparently, 1.5 inches translated into 3!!! This means that I cannot even get it into a ponytail. I rely so heavily on the ponytail and now I don't know what to do. At least the stylist was enjoying herself during the cut, dancing and singing to every song that played on Mix 102.9. I particularly liked it when she harmonized to "Cuts Like a Knife" by Bryan Adams.
The sad part is that I have had countless impulse haircuts and they always end up the same way--badly. Maybe it's time to find a stylist and develop a relationship with him or her. Someone I can trust. Someone that knows the innermost workings of my follicles. Someone who knows what's best for my crazy, curly hair.

Oh well. At least all of my split ends are gone. *sigh*

RNC

2008-09-03T21:41:00.003-05:00

Ok...
I am watching the Republican National Convention and have laughed out loud several times. Not necessarily because the speakers were funny, but rather because the people at the convention are just comical. They are dancing and jumping up and down, waving things in the air, and whooping and hollering. Oh, and this just in: a lady was just shown being escorted out of the arena by some guys in suits.

I think I like this Sarah Palin. I had never heard of her until Friday, but so far, so good. Is it just me or does she kind of look like Peggy Hill from "King of the Hill"? I'm just sayin'...

One thing I can't stand is the standing ovation. It is so forced and insincere. Sure, a few people may feel moved to stand from time to time, but you can't tell me that EVERY person in a room feels the same exact emotion at the same time. I think that this feeling first developed in one of my many charismatic church experiences. I particularly remember that my church in high school would have a special "anthem" every Sunday. Well, I began noticing that after the first measure was sung, the spirit had apparently moved the whole sanctuary to stand on their feet. I refused and was often the only person seating. Maybe I'm stubborn, or some might even deem me disrespectful. However, I maintain to this day that the standing ovation is a forced display of "emotion". Maybe I'm bitter because I've never received one and probably never will. But I do know that I would never want people to feel obligated to stand to their feet if they didn't really want to.

Yes, this blog was pretty pointless, but I am trying to stay awake and listen to the remainder of Palin's speech.

Until next time...

randomness

2008-08-30T22:57:00.002-05:00

Well, it's about 11pm on a Saturday night and I'm blogging. Well, actually I'm baking cookies, doing laundry, AND blogging in the meantime. What an exciting twenty-something life I lead. haha. Don't worry--I actually have a date tomorrow so that will be fun (:

Here is just a little run-down of some recently happenings for my two faithful readers, Rebekah and Melissa.

*My Dad's mom, Betty June Turner Shuler, passed away last Saturday. You can read her obituary here. I think it sums up her life pretty well. We are sad for the loss of her here on earth but grateful that she is free from the body that failed her so miserably over the past 8 years or so. Praise God that she is reunited with D.J, but it's still hard to believe that she's gone.

*School has started! I am teaching 6th grade this year. They are funnier than I thought they would be...but also as needed as I DID think that they would be. This year is going to be challenging in a lot of new ways but I think it's going to be great. Here's to Year 7! Wow--seven years. Who would've thought?

*I went to a high school Cross Country meet last night to see some kids run and actually got to see students from 3 and 4 years ago. They have all matured so nicely and it put teaching in perspective. I love seeing them once they've grown up a little. It would have been nice, however, if a couple of them would have been better behaved while they were in my class. Oh well!

*Hooray for Labor Day Weekend! If only every weekend was 3 days long...

*I decided on the iPod Classic. So far, so good. Thanks to everyone who contributed their two cents.

*I will be 29 in less than two weeks. I am freaked out about this birthday. Not sure why, except that it's the last year of my twenties. Goodness, I'm getting old. It is really hard not to compare where I am in my life versus where I thought I would be.

*Matthew (my baby brother) is moving to Idaho in a week or so to do a DTS with YWAM. From there he will go to India. Rebekah--I tried so hard to get him to go to Australia so you could look out for him. This is a huge transition for him, as he's leaving his job at BP to pursue a new direction. I am proud of him for his decision.

*My college friend, Keira, just lost her father this past Tuesday. She's in Thailand doing mission work but was able to go back to Colorado. My heart hurts for her, and I can't imagine losing my Dad at this age.

Well, that's about all I have for now. I'll try to have some more focused posts in the near future!

it's all starting to make sense

2008-08-21T21:03:00.007-05:00

Even though we are supposed to embrace our individuality when it comes to physical appearances, we all have certain people that we admire for specific outstanding features. For example, I was watching a commercial today for Pantene and thought, "I would kill for that Maria Menounos' hair." This is not the hairdo from the ad, but you can still tell that she has a great head of hair:

For guys, I have heard one common aspiration that they have when they get on a work-out/health kick. It never meant much to me until last night. I have heard the following phrase more times than I can count: "I want to look like Brad Pitt in 'Fight Club'". After watching this movie for the first time last night, I get it. Gentlemen, you all have my blessing to aspire to resemble this...sans cigarette and black eye (:

PTL!!

Oh, and the movie was sooo different than what I thought. It has left me with a few questions and was much more poignant than I would have imagined.

something's gotta give

2008-08-17T13:57:00.002-05:00

I know I have posted on this particular topic before, but I really need to stop one of my worst habits: Diet soda. As much as it pains me to give up one of my little earthly joys, I have to quit. I'm convinced that our bodies were not designed to handle aspartame and all of its possible side effects. Water is ok...I can learn to love it again. And don't people who carry water bottles around just kind of have an appearance of health? Ah, yes. That will be me.
So long, my dear friend...

Please don't stop the music

2008-08-06T08:41:00.004-05:00

Yes, the title of this post is also the name of an incredibly obnoxious Rhianna song, but it seemed fitting. A couple of weeks ago, my precious little Civic was broken into. The passenger side window was busted and my little mp3 player was gone. Now, I was a little excited about the prospect of shopping for a new mp3 player because my other one had a lot of music on it that I didn't want anymore. And there was some kind of glitch with the software that wouldn't let me take it off, so space for new songs was limited.
So, I am now in the market for a new device. I am about 95% sure that I am going with an Apple this time.
Here are the options:
The iPod Classic

Cost: $249
Pros: Can hold up to 20,000 songs so I would never be short on space
Cons: It is kind of big for running, and that's one of my main uses for it. Has anyone used this while working out? Help!

The Nano

Cost: $199 for 4G
Pros: Compact and great for running...should be enough space since it holds 2,000 songs
Cons: Dollar for dollar, I could get a lot more space with the classic

I think the iPod Touch is pretty cool, but I don't think I need to spend that much money. Also, the thought of having wireless access everywhere I go just makes me think I would never have human-to-human contact again. ha.

So, if anyone is still reading this, please give me your thoughts/opinions/experiences. I am open to other brands as well. I really liked my Sansa player but the thought of syncing up to iTunes just sounds so much easier.

I'm still alive

2008-08-03T10:00:00.004-05:00

Ok Rebekah...this one's for you, friend (:

For whatever reason, I have not felt compelled to blog at all over the past few months. Part of me thinks it's incredibly narcissistic to think that anyone cares about my little life. But, my dear little friend, Rebekah, says that this is her 'lifeline'. Boy, have I let her down! This summer, I've had a few fun experiences, learned some new things, and have spent lots of time with family and friends. There is a lot on my heart and in my head, but I'm not quite ready to get back into full blogging mode. So, I like to think of this attempt to re-enter as a baby step. It will be light on substance and photos, but I think the juices might start flowing for future blogs after a while. We shall see...

Here is a list of some things I've done this summer:
--I went on a cruise to New England/Canada with my parents and brother. It was their 30th
anniversary and they wanted to take their kids with them since we're "not married yet". Ha.
It was a good time overall but 7 days is a bit long to be on a ship with hundreds of senior
citizens.

--I have rediscovered my love of reading and it's been so great. This summer I have read: "The
Other Boleyn Girl", "The Last Summer of You and Me", "My Sister's Keeper", "Twilight" (now
I'm working on the 2nd book in the series "New Moon"), "The Nanny Diaries", "The Prince",
and now I'm working on "The Reason for God".

--I have had more of a tan this summer than I have had in years. Love it!

--I love love love sundresses! Seriously, this discovery has been so wonderful and freeing. They are fun and flirty and you don't have to fix your hair to look like you made an effort to look cute--perfect!

--I have been stressed about watering my foundation during all of this heat. Home ownership
has been great until this summer. I also need a new roof due to the storms in March & April.

--I got a new car over Memorial Day Weekend....here is a pic of what it looks like, color and all:

--I have learned that boys will always confuse me. And when I say 'boys', I also mean grown men in their 30's. But, I am also learning to appreciate someone who is brutally honest at where they are at in their life....even if it's not what I always want to hear. More on this in another post (:

--Teachers are some of the rudest people ever. After attending an AP Institute this week, I was surprised at how insanely disrespectful these people were towards our instructor. Granted, he wasn't the most dynamic speaker ever, but the poor guy was trying.

Okay...
Now, I only have two weeks left of summer so here is a short list of things I'd like to accomplish before I go back into the real world:
--Cut out letters and make my own posters for the classroom.
--Get cool fabric for the bulletin boards
--Deep clean my closets
--Figure out how to get the shine back in my marble floors after a spill from the other night
--Work out every day
--Finish "New Moon"
--Lay out one more time
--Pick out my outfits for inservice (the first day of school is easy since we have to wear a faculty
shirt w/jeans...yea!)
--Make a new budget
--Think of ways to simplify
--Write a mission statement for my class
--Pray for my future students and that I can be all that they need me to be this year.

That's all I've got for now...there will hopefully be more to come!!!

blah blah blog

2008-05-08T21:26:00.003-05:00

The past few days, I have had a compulsion to blog. However, I don't know where to begin. So much has been floating around in my tiny little brain, but I feel like I won't be able to put a decent thought together until summer comes around on June 5th. Oh, June 5th--you are my new favorite date. On June 6th, I fly out to Boston for my parents' 30th anniversary cruise. There probably won't be any blogging while I'm touring New England and Canada either. So maybe there will be something worth blogging about on June 15th or 16th. We shall see... (:

All I know right now is that I am trying to figure out what it means to truly rest. Matthew 11:28. It is a daily struggle to let the Lord take on all of my little burdens so that I may find rest in Him and in Him alone.