Merry Christmas!

From the whole Henderson family! :)

How lame am I?

And before any of you wise-crackers even start, that question is rhetorical. I am well aware who reads my blog and I don't want to see any comments that answer that literally, thanks.

So, yes I do realize it has been since July 31st since I've posted a blog. But I have a whole list of really good reasons why. First, we moved. Then I was waiting to see how things were going after the move to write about. Then my laptop died. Then we thought James' laptop died, but after a brief rest, it came back to the land of almost fully functioning electronics. Then it was Halloween, and when you work at Party City that keeps you pretty busy (especially if that's not your only job). Then I was subbing a lot, which is fantastic, but exhausting. And now, it's Christmas. All of that to say, I kinda miss the blog. And I've been mulling over some things to post about the last few days. But today is not that day.

I spent the morning making a trip to the grocery store (which I normally hate doing the week of Christmas, but it was not as bad as I feared) and making candy for the in-laws. I'm about to go have lunch/dinner with my husband on his two hour break from his crazy split shift at work today. After that, I plan on making cookies. I also have to make a chocolate pie, cheese spread, deviled eggs, and after Christmas, birthday cakes. Maybe sometime between all the cooking, family time, and fun festivities I can spend some time blogging. If not, though, I'll catch you after Christmas.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Are you sick of me yet?

I know I haven't been a very consistent blogger since I started this little blog. So much so in fact that I just noticed yesterday that my template has disappeared. Oops! I'll try to get on that. :) So I know it's probably been really strange that I've posted so much in the last couple weeks, but there are just periods where I don't want to share things, and then all the sudden I go through a phase where life is so crazy that I have to type it all to start making sense of everything. This has definitely been one of those times! But I have to say, I have a wonderful support group in the friends that I have. And I haven't been taking as full advantage of that as I should, which I really regret now that we're leaving tomorrow. But I know they're not really going anywhere, it'll just be a little more long distance now (some longer than others). So spending last night with four Godly women who are so dear to me, was a great way for me to stop and refocus and realize that everything is going pretty okay right now and it really helped me to refresh and get everything accomplished today that I needed to. So, ladies, thank you. You mean so much to me, all of you, and all for unique reasons. And that's all I'm going to say about that because I'm tearing up now and I really don't have time for that. :)

Anyway. Since I have been posting so frequently lately I really don't have anything new to share. But I was just having one of those moments where I was feeling very stressed and chaotic and overwhelmed. I just needed to stop and be still for a few minutes. So I thought I would post one last blog from the home where we've spent the last ten months and kind of set all of this "old" behind me. That way I can take tomorrow to focus on all the "new" and keep my head on straight. I was very close to breaking down several times of the last few days, so I know it's coming eventually. But while trying to load the U-Haul or unload the U-Haul or drive down to Round Rock or during my interview Tuesday is not the time. And sitting here taking a moment to lay to rest (so to speak) all the bad we've dealt with in the last year and a half is what's going to keep me in control until I have time to have a melt down over all the good we are leaving behind here in Fort Worth. And then when I'm done with that I can put my full attention on getting my fair share of all the good that is bound to be coming my way.

Luckily, I have a big strong spider killer.

And no it's not Twila. It's the hubby. And he is really good at this job. Which is good because I really really REALLY don't like spiders. It's like we're a perfect match or something! ;)

So, you're probably wondering where this post is headed with a title and intro like that. And the answer is.....I will NOT miss the spiders.

Things I will miss about Haslet:

• the beautiful big open sky
• seeing the stars and the sunset
• seeing cute little bunnies in the yard

Thing I will most definitely not miss about Haslet:

• the mutant spiders attacking me
• trains blocking me into the neighborhood
• stupid neighbors walking in the middle of the streets and not moving for cars
• that it takes 30 minutes to get to anything worthwhile
• losing satellite signal for no apparent reason

It's almost time for us to leave. And we have so much still to do. But being attacked by a mutant spider once again this morning makes me feel like I'm so ready. I am finding it hard to believe we'll be gone in four days. But the past year and a half has been really hard and I'm ready to start over and have things finally be better. And seriously, I am so ready to have things five minutes away again and be able to order pizza that isn't Mr. Jim's! That probably sounds ridiculous to most of you, but really, it is super exciting!

A few additions....

I knew I would think of more pros and cons of moving. I was right.

Cons:
-We have to leave FOTP Haslet. This church has been great and I have loved every minute of serving with them. I will really miss it.
-My shoe selection is being cut in half. Mom and I wear the same size shoe, so I've had twice the shoes to pick from since we've been here. Unfortunately, Karen and I do not, so I loose half my shoe choices.

Pros:
-I get the channels back that Dad just canceled.
-There are a ton more fun things to do around town, you know, since there's actually a town.

I'm beginning to realize that this is actually happening, the closer it comes. I typed up my official notice to my manager at Payless here. He already knows I'm leaving, but just in case I don't get a transfer (which I'm beginning to think isn't likely) I want everything to be official. And James has an interview Monday with the LifeWay in Austin. At least that piece of the plan is working. I'm starting to freak out just a little. I'm worried that this isn't going to work out any better than when we moved here, and that really scares me. But, I'm trusting that since no doors, or windows, or tiny little cracks have opened up for us here, that something will have to open up there. Anyway, we really appreciate any thoughts or prayers or leads you could send our way. :) We sure could use them!

Here we go again....

Well, I can now officially tell everyone that we are moving yet again. And just in case you're not aware, I hate moving! Absolutely hate it. But that is the plan. Twila, on the other hand, doesn't mind the packing and moving. Until you get her in the car that is. I'll try to get a video of that to share that fun with you later.

Ok, so details. We are moving back to the Austin/Round Rock area. Some of you probably already had some inklings of this because I had mentioned that I was putting applications in down there. In fact, I have applications out in the areas of Fort Worth, Waco, Austin, and even San Marcos. But back to the point. We have been living here in Fort Worth for a year and three months now, and I have had no leads on a job whatsoever, and we are barely making it. I have been to every job fair I could manage, I have applied to every district within an hour radius, and I tried to sub in two of the best districts in the area (which also happen to be the closest). And I think I had a total of maybe five sub jobs from November to May. No joke. That is how flooded with teachers DFW is. In fact, I have a coworkers at my part time, second job that is looking for a job in the same area I am. She has ESL and SPED certifications and experience, and no one is calling her either. So, it's time for a new plan. And that plan is, try somewhere else. And that somewhere else is going to be Round Rock. We decided that since I know teachers there, I may have a better chance of getting into a district. However, we have no delusions about me getting an offer of a contract. So the back up plan, assuming I don't get an offer, is for me to sub in Round Rock, Pflugerville, and Leander, since I know teachers in all three districts and have subbed before in both RRISD and LISD. So, if you teach in one of those districts, keep me in mind, and when I'm officially on the lists, I'll be sure to let everyone know. We also hopefully will both be transferring with our current part time jobs, so that we at least have something.

Of course, there are some downsides to this move, as always (besides the obvious having to move all our crap again).
1. We will still be mooching, at least for a little while. We will be staying with James' parents, at least until we figure out what our income will be. I guess it's only fair though. I mean James has been living with his in-laws for 10 months now, so now it's only fair that I put in some time living with mine. :)
2. Twila will have to spend all of her time in our bedroom, away from the cats with claws that know how to fight and are quite a bit bigger than she is.
3. We have to leave all our friends in Fort Worth.
4. I have to listen to Twila whine about being in the car for three and a half hours.
5. James has to drive a U-Haul.
6. No more Rangers games.
7. Dead. Animals.

But I am trying to focus on the upsides to all of this, which I'll mention in no particular order (and these aren't meant to be offensive to my dad or brother, who both read this).
1. A bigger bathroom! With a bathtub! And real counters!
2. We get to see James' family and my grandma a lot more often.
3. We will get to play with Timber and Sardis on a regular basis.
4. We will most likely get to play our Wii more often.
5. I can maybe find some more info to help find James' ancestors in all of his parents' stuff.
6. It will pretty much be like we're moving home again, which won't be all that bad.
7. We'll be close to civilization again!!
8. We get good food back--Hoody's, Mr. Gatti's, Pok-E-Joe's, Fish City Grill, etc. And that also means, we will have more options for pizza delivery than just Mr. Jim's.

Ok, I may have more to add to those, but for now I am tired, still not feeling 100%, and I have to open the store in the morning. But, I get to go see the Rangers tomorrow night and I am so excited to get one last game before we leave!

Crazy dreams

In the last post I touched on just how much music is a part of who I am. At this particular time there is one particular lyric from Carrie Underwood's "Crazy Dreams" that I just can't shake........."Thank God even crazy dreams come true." And all I can keep thinking is, my dream isn't that crazy. But even if it is, can I really get to a place that it will come true?

I have known for as long as I can remember that I wanted to be a teacher. Actually I do remember a brief time when I wanted to be a vet, but that was short-lived once my mom explained all the not so fun stuff vets have to deal with. But teacher was always on my list, and pretty much always at the top. I rarely played house as a kid, I preferred to play school. I never hesitated when people asked me what I wanted to do with my life, the answer was always teach. When it came time to visit colleges and pick a degree, there was no question. I was looking for a school whose College of Education had a good reputation and I was getting an Education degree. Granted, I did stray and get a completely unrelated Associates, but that was a brief diversion that I always intended to support my teaching career. And I got right back to finishing that degree. I have never wanted anything else, and I have never considered any other career. I just always knew. It's really not too crazy to have a goal for a career and want to achieve that right?

Well, I'm starting to feel like maybe I was crazy for thinking that way. And I partially blame all the professors and speakers I heard all through my education program that told us over and over and over that there was a teacher shortage, we'd have our pick of jobs, there would be plenty of jobs for all of us, it would be no problem. Yeah, they lied. In just one district that I've dealt with, there are at least 200 certified teachers just on the sub list trying to get into a full-time position, and an average of 500 applications attached to each job opening listed on the website. Not exactly great odds. It's a fight just to get a sub job, much less a full time opening. It's been absolutely ridiculous. I applied and went to orientation to sub for another district back in November and haven't even seen a job come up since then. The worst slap in the face though was at the beginning of this school year. I went onto the website for the elementary I student taught at to double check the emails for the teachers that are my references, and noticed there was a new third grade teacher on the team where I was teaching. Turns out, when I clicked over to her website, that it was a classmate that had also student taught at that school, but in a different grade. My heart totally sank because I knew if I had applied there and we had stayed I would have had a pretty good chance at that job.

We had a plan. Move to DFW, let hubby go to school, I get a teaching job and support us while he does that, done deal. We were organized. We researched. We had a list of options, and they were in three groups based on pay and distance. And we applied like crazy. Did the job fair thing. Had a couple interviews even. Then nothing. All school year. So I started subbing. And we expanded our radius. And moved in with my parents. And applied all over again and went to more job fairs, and even had a couple more interviews. But still nothing. I even applied to get a Masters, which took two months to hear about, and then we find out they're only offering to pay part of the tuition, so I can't do that. So now......we're changing the plan. And I'm not sure how I feel about that. Because what was the point of my original plan if we have to change it? And what if we still get nowhere with a new plan? Not cool. So, the new plan is......applying in the Austin area. And Killeen. For now. And maybe more. That's still kind of "iffy." And every time I think about or look at the huge list of districts that I've applied to, I just feel like that's just 75 more let-downs.

So that's my life right now. An overwhelming pile of applications and background checks and resumes and cover letters getting me absolutely nowhere. And all of this while on a somewhat unknown time limit, because at some point we can't stay here anymore. I need a door to open and soon. Or even a window. Actually at this point, I'd take a crack in the wall, and I will find a way to squeeze through it! Ugh! I want a dang classroom!!! It's making me a whole different kind of crazy than the song is talking about!

Saying Goodbye.

It's been two weeks in a row now that I've had to say goodbye to someone in my life. It was really bothering me on my drive home from work last night. I was having some trouble wrapping my head around exactly how I was feeling about everything. Just as I was trying to sort all this out in my head, I switched on KLTY and Carrie Underwood's "So Small" started playing. It was like she was putting my crazy mixed-up thoughts into words for me. Now, I love belting out some Carrie Underwood on a regular basis, but never have the lyrics touched my heart quite like they did last night. I found myself choking up as I sang along, especially the second verse.

"It's so easy to get lost inside
A problem that seems so big at the time
It's like a river that's so wide
It swallows you whole

While you're sitting around thinking 'bout what you can't change
And worrying about all the wrong things
Time's flying by, moving so fast
You better make it count 'cause you can't get it back

Sometimes that mountain you've been climbing
Is just a grain of sand
And what you've been out there searching for forever
Is in your hands

Oh, and when you figure out
Love is all that matters after all
It sure makes everything else
Seem so small"

I'm still not sure I have everything sorted out in my head at the moment. But I did feel a lot better just singing along with words that described what I was thinking. It definitely relieved some of my tension to express myself that way. It was almost like a little comfort/prayer time just me and God in my car on the drive home. Anyway, I don't really want to go all into my deep personal thoughts and feelings here on my blog (you can ask me personally if any of this is new to you). But I felt it was important to give some small mention of what's been going on in my life. And I also felt it was important to include how much music can speak to the soul, and even sometimes do a little healing. Makes me really appreciate what a big role music plays in my little corner of the world. Also makes me appreciate how lucky I am to still be here. The fact that it could have been me is never too far from the front of my mind, but times like these definitely bring it right up to the forefront. I don't like to dwell on it too much, I'd rather focus on making the most of my life, but it does bring back some vivid memories. Anyway, I'm starting to ramble, so I'm going to end this.

Rest in peace. You will be greatly missed. I know you'll be waiting there to celebrate with me when I make it up to heaven. And I will be so glad to see you when I get there.

In Loving Memory
Mardelle Virginia Carter Arnold, 1/5/1923-4/28/2010
Ethan James Adams, 9/20/89-5/7/2010

A Catch-all Catch-up

So.....it's been awhile since I blogged. Life kinda picked me up, whirled me around, got me all confused, and then threw me back down to fend for myself. I wanted to write a quick blog before we hit the road for a whirlwind trip out of town, but couldn't really settle on a specific topic. So I decided to do a sort of life update, summary style. Some of what's happened in the last month I'll fill you in on, and some of that whirling and throwing life did I'll leave out for now.

Went to EMS ISD's job fair. Did a screener interview, and then was told by just about every principal that things were still up in the air due to the elementary campus being added for the next school year (rezoning and transferring).

Turned 24. Feels absolutely no different. Except maybe a little more pressure to get things together.

Been having a lot of fun and getting some really awesome results at church. I'm really enjoying serving and helping get this off the ground.

Been working my butt off at Payless. Which is really impressing my boss. Still haven't decided if that's good or bad. Sure, it's good to be in good with the boss, and a raise would be helpful. But this is not exactly in line with my career goals.

Went to another job fair today. It was absolute chaos, and felt like cattle herding. Really not very encouraging. Most districts were hardly even talking to people, and the ones that were, were taking way too much time per person. This whole job hunting thing is really driving me nuts. I seriously need a magic wand.

Well, that is the last month in a really small nutshell. We are hitting the road for Georgetown any minute. Then from there, tomorrow morning we are heading to Cuero for a funeral service for my great-aunt. She was my grandfather's older sister. This news wasn't necessarily a surprise, but it's still a rough time. Anyway, we'll be in Cuero for probably most of the day, then head back home late tomorrow night. Not exactly ideal, but it needs to be done. So, I'm signing off for now so I can be ready to leave. I really will try to find something interesting to blog about soon. Maybe I can finish and develop my most recent roll of film and post some about my very small dabbling in photography.

Babies everywhere!

Ok, so my last post was a little intense. But you have to understand, I've been sick this week, I work with people who seem to be using very few of their brain cells, I wasn't supposed to have worked that night and had to go in anyway, and especially the fact that people being stupid seemingly by choice is something that really annoys me. So, on to happier things!!

I think that my favorite cross-stitch projects are baby bibs. It is just so fun! I always start them with someone in mind. Now that's not to say plans don't change, but I do always have someone in mind when I start one. When I'm ahead, I usually start either a generic pattern, or both a girl and boy bib. Usually though, I know exactly who I'm going to give the bib to. I just love picturing a friends' baby wearing/using the bib I'm stitching for them! I think one of the other things that makes the bibs my favorite, is that they're so easy and fast. I can start and finish one quickly enough to give at baby showers (or whenever). I like to feel efficient and effective, and these projects are exactly that! I try to take a picture of every bib that I make. I say try because our digital camera is very old and finicky, so sometimes I have to actually use my film camera (*gasp* I know, so old school), so some of my pictures aren't currently developed or on the computer yet.

So of course, I always start with a blank slate. I actually prefer a white bib, because the colors look more vibrant on the white background, but I have done a few colored backgrounds like the one I have here. I also like to try to use a particular brand, because they make their bibs to where I can sew down the part I stitch on to cover the strings on the back so moms can wash them. That brand is harder to find, and does only come in white, so if I don't get my preferred brand, I put a piece of matching fabric over the back of the stitching to make it washable. The bibs and thread themselves are washable anyway, but I cover the back so moms don't have to worry about the strings coming loose.

These first several pictures are all from my first round of bibs that I ever gave out to friends. These kiddos are now all around 3 years old, which absolutely blows my mind! And actually, when I pulled these up, I was having a hard time remembering who I gave what! This one here went to my friend Stacey's little boy. Stacey and I knew each other through church back when I was in high school, and reconnected shortly before she had the baby.

This one went to my good friend Caroline's little boy. I'm pretty sure. I'm second-guessing myself, so Caroline, if I'm wrong, I'm sorry!!! I really liked this particular pattern! :) Caroline and I met at TCC, and clicked immediately. She was actually a bridesmaid in my wedding and made our cakes! I just gave her a second bib, as well as a washcloth, for the little girl that will very soon be joining the family! Unfortunately, that set is one I had to photograph with my film camera, and the roll hasn't been developed yet. :( However, she was just telling me the other day how special these gifts were to her, and seriously, I almost cried! (And before you even start, that had nothing to do with any extra hormones!!)

This set is actually a bib (on the left) and I guess what you'd call like a burp rag (on the right). I don't use these things yet, so I don't know what exactly you'd call it! Anyway, this set went to my friend Stephanie's little girl. Stephanie and I went to high school together.

This one was a more recent round of gifts. This one went to another good friend, and bridesmaid, Cori's little boy who is not quite a year old yet. This one was really fun for me, because I did the pattern myself. When Cori first found out, she nicknamed the baby "jelly bean." I thought it was super cute, and I looked forever and everywhere to find a cute pattern that had jelly beans in it! No such luck though. I found one on the internet that had a jar of jelly beans, and some loose ones, but wouldn't fit on the bib area. Well, about the time I found that and was debating how to alter it to make it work, Cori found out it was a boy and they settled on the name Konner. This solved my problem for me, and I immediately got to work designing this pattern for the little one!

I wish I had more pictures of the past bibs I have done. But for now this is all I have. I do have a few others in the works currently, as it seems these babies like to come in groups! :) I can think of two babies off the top of my head that I could be stitching for right now! But, I don't like to post pictures of ones that I haven't given. I feel like that kind of takes away from the surprise, if the mom I happen to give a bib to had seen the picture on my blog. I also think that when I can I will design more patterns of my own. I've done one other besides the jelly beans, but it's not even finished, so I don't want to share it yet. I really like designing the patterns. If I was a better artist, I probably would've looked for a career designing something! I'm sure most of you don't know that about me!

Anyway, that was a much happier blog post, and I know that several of you had shown some interest last time I posted about my cross-stitch. So, there we go, my favorite thing to cross-stitch! If any of you need to put in order in, I'm sure we could do some negotiating about that!

Is it just me?

Am I the only one that has a low tolerance for stupid?

It just absolutely bugs me.

I mean, really, where do people hide their common sense these days? Why is it so difficult? I mean, there are lists and charts and diagrams with the correct procedures. It shouldn't take too many brain cells to follow these guidelines.

But seriously, am I the only one bothered by this? Are Americans in this generation really losing that much intelligence and common sense? And if so, shouldn't we all be extremely worried about this?

It really makes for a miserable work day. And it puts me in a bad mood. I have a very very low tolerance for stupid. And what makes it worse is when people don't even try to stop being stupid. Six hours of high levels of stupid puts me in a really bad state of mind. And I don't like it. Ugh!

Ok, rant over. Glad I don't work tomorrow.

Safe in Your plan....

So, while having a wonderful coffee date on Wednesday with my awesome friend, Caroline, I realized that maybe not all of you who follow (or read without following) my little blog here know what's going on in my life right now. It occurred to me after spending two hours (hours that flew by, I might add) catching up with her, that maybe not everyone pays attention when I update my Facebook status 60 times a week. Ok, so it's probably not 60. But you get the point. And maybe not everyone puts all the pieces together when they read a blog here or there, or a sentence long status every so often, or even the sporadic email or text. (By the way, that reminds me, I am sooo bad at email! Just FYI, I've been known to let emails sit in my inbox for weeks upon weeks without answering. If it's important, you really should text or Facebook me, because those I do answer. Don't ask me why, that's just how I operate! Has been since email was invented!) So, for those of you who may be feeling like you have no idea what I'm up to, and care to read the update, here goes. And I'll even categorize for you, because that's just how I like things.

Location
For those of you who may have missed it, we are back in the DFW area. I spent almost three years in the Austin area finishing my degree. But now James is in Seminary here in Fort Worth, so I am back in DFW. Specifically, Haslet. We did spend roughly seven months in NRH in a ridiculous nightmare of an apartment, but since October we have been in Haslet. And I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but Haslet is out in the middle of absolutely nowhere! And I don't like it! I am not an out-in-the-country, smell-the-cows type of girl. I like to have civilization nearby. And by nearby I mean like less than half an hour. But I'm dealing with it. We are trying to save to buy a house. But that seems a long way off right now.

School
As mentioned, James is in Seminary. He is working on his master's. It seems hard. But he likes it. I am currently waiting to hear from TCU as to whether or not I am accepted, as well as whether or not I get a teaching assistant position. They are being very slow about answering these questions and it is driving me a little crazy. However, I do not know yet if I will be attending in the fall, because that decision depends on a whole bunch of things that are still up in the air right now. (I'm beginning to hate that phrase. It seems a lot of things in my life are "still up in the air.")

Jobs
Yes, that does require a plural. Scary, huh? You have no idea. I am currently on sub lists for three school districts in the area. Which I'm sure to most of you sounds like more than enough work for one person. Not so much. I've had very few jobs, and there doesn't seem to be any increase in the number available. So while that sounds like it would keep me busy, it doesn't. I am also still looking for a full time teaching position, which could be a full time job in itself. I've been looking since last April, and no bites yet. It's getting really discouraging, but I'm not giving up. On top of all that, I'm also working part time nights and weekends at Payless. While I would love for my part time job to actually relate to my career field, that really hasn't worked out for me. I did at one point hold a position as a tutor, but that is a whole separate, less than fun story. So, basically, we needed to pay the bills and Payless was my only offer, so I took it. And it's working out.

Church
When we moved to Haslet in October, we began attending services for a new campus/church plant project taking place here in Haslet. At the time, those interested were meeting at the current Keller location of FOTP. About three weeks ago now, we finally started meeting in Haslet as an official new campus of FOTP. And it has been really great. I actually have helped start a new church in the past, and I'm enjoying the experience this time just as much as I did last time. I have been waking up at 6:15 every Sunday to get down to the elementary school to help set up equipment at 7:00. I am not a morning person at all, but it's actually been fun. So, we spend two hours for set up and band rehearsal, then have a 9:00 service for all volunteers, and then a 10:30 service for everyone. It has been a blast the last two weeks seeing numbers grow already, and seeing things fall into place and click. This weekend will be the first advertised 10:30 service, and I am definitely excited to see how many people show up! Some of you probably got my Facebook invite. Don't worry, I won't be offended if you choose not to come check us out, but it was important to me to have the offer out there. This is really a nutshell of an update on this subject, so if you want more, ask me, I'd be happy to share. But it's really still in early stages, so this will do for now.

I think that's about it really. At least the big important stuff. I know I haven't been posting very consistently, but this brief update should kind of explain why. My life somehow is busy without feeling busy, so I tend to have a hard time making time to blog. But I plan to do better, really. In fact, I have in my head already that I want to blog about my cross-stitch again like I mentioned in the previous cross-stitch post. And who knows, maybe something actually exciting will happen in my life and I can write about that, too! Or if you have anything you think I should blog about, I'm open to suggestion! For tonight, I think I'm gonna get ready for bed, and then maybe try to talk James into watching an episode of Ghost Hunters with me so I can get through the DVD and we can send it back to get something else from Netflix!

~B~

spring break

taking a "vacation" in round rock for a few days. may or may not blog. see ya later.

Can't stand the cuteness!!

This job is probably going to get me in trouble. But work is work. I'll just have to realllllly work on my will power. I love shoes!!!! And earrings! And purses!!

Ladies' Night!

Luckily, there doesn't seem to be the whining and complaining going on with the ladies that we saw with the men and ice dancers. Thank goodness. Although that may have something to do with the fact that the closest Russian to the podium was in 9th place with a gap of about 50 points between her and the leader. Okay, that was slightly tacky, but come on they were asking for it! :) So here's what I thought of last night's top performances.

Rachael Flatt--Of all the skaters they aired tonight, Rachael to me is the only one with the typical skater's build and I think it looks much more natural. I thought she was great, and I loved her program. I didn't see any reason for her to be scored so low, though it was a personal best. I was watching the online scoring sheets live, but there was a glitch and hers got skipped so I don't know what the deductions were. She ended up in 7th place, which I'm not sure I agree with completely. She was in 5th, and I expected her to end up anywhere for 4th to 6th. I watched the girl from Finland that placed ahead of her and scored higher in the free skate (online, since they didn't air her), and I still don't understand how that happened. Rachael looked much better to me, but I still applaud her accomplishment!

Kim Yu-Na--This girl is freaking crazy gorgeous before she even starts to skate, and then when she skates it gets even better! I have no idea how these tall skinny girls manage to have enough power to skate like that, but good for her! Not to mention she has ridiculous pressure from her country and she was still amazing! She can't even train in her own country because of all the pressure and people following her. She had every right to cry those tears of joy, and she should be proud of what she accomplished. Wow! And she set all kinds of records with her scores, and she's only 19! I wouldn't be surprised if she's back in four years and still be amazing!

Mao Asada--First of all, I have to say congrats on the three triple axels. The second bit of skating history made tonight. That being said, I didn't think she performed as well, and honestly I think the judges could've deducted more and not been faulted for it. But that's just me. I feel sorry for her that her country will be so upset with her less-than-flawless performance, and I think it is wrong of them, but that's the cultural difference between USA and Japan. I think she deserves to be proud of her entire Olympic performance and to enjoy the moment. She obviously wasn't.

Joannie Rochette--OMG cry-fest! I guess this drama replaces the other needless drama the other competitions had. Honestly, this girl is a winner in my book, medal or not. I so wanted her to be perfect, for her. But it doesn't matter, she's a hero in my book anyway and Canada loves her. That being said, she had two beautiful performances and should be so proud of herself. My guess is this is the last we'll see of her, but I would love to be wrong. It was so hard to watch, but at the same time I couldn't tear myself away. She did seem a lot calmer the second night, which I hope isn't what caused her problems, but it was nice to see her succeed.

Mirai Nagasu--She is beautiful!!! I love her! She scared me a few times because she was soo close to the wall, which makes me nervous. And, she spins so fast! In fact, in her short program she actually got a nosebleed from it! Wow! I don't want to sound un-American, but I didn't think we had a chance to medal this Olympics. But after Mao's mistakes, Mirai came out of nowhere and I was so hoping she had enough to pull it off. I was actually a little torn, because that would've knocked Joannie off the podium, but of course my first choice is always an American! Her score sheet came up and she had a few difficulty level 2's instead of the 3's and 4's everyone else had, but no downgrades or deductions. It wasn't quite enough this time, but if she steps those difficulties up and continues to be perfect, she'll be really hard to beat in Russia!

I think all the medals awarded were well-deserved. I really loved having to actual score sheets pop up in front of me, that was cool and everything made sense that way. I love the skating medals' ceremonies--the way they do it right after the competition, right there on the rink. I am so glad I wasn't wearing mascara today, though! Mao did not look happy at all, which is so strange to me. It reminded me of the men's ceremony and the sour face the Russian had. A silver medal is an amazing accomplishment, enjoy it, whether your country will or not! It was nice to see Kim enjoy her gold! She earned it! I wish they could have played Korea's and Canada's anthems though, as an exception.

As in the other post, I mentioned there are some weird things they do now with the new scoring system that to me make things seem less graceful. Some things just don't look as pretty, and I wonder sometimes how they decide which to do. It seems to me like it should be an easy choice, but then they come out with all these weird poses and moves that don't look as good as the ones other skaters choose.
Like this. This is a spiral sequence, which all the girls are required to do. No big deal, really, they just glide across the ice on one foot in a few different poses. Now the one on the left I see quite a few girls do, especially the lower ranked skaters. Which is okay I guess. Looks kinda awkward. The one on the right, almost all of the top girls do. To me, it looks so much more graceful. And, I personally think it shows much more flexibility. Whatever.



This stuff looks awkward too. But I guess they do what makes the judges happy!










Well, I guess that's all for my figure skating talk for a while! Hope you enjoyed my somewhat knowledgeable ramblings! Until next competition!

~B~

What a bunch of crybabies!

I consider myself a pretty avid viewer of figure skating, so I can't help chiming in on all this drama. I know, it's not exactly what you'd call a Texas sport, but I like it. (Don't worry, I'm still a good Texas girl and watch my football just as avidly!) Most years I catch Nationals and Worlds, and of course every Winter Olympics probably since 1988. If I see it on, I watch it, no question--competitive, professional, fundraiser specials, anything. Now, being a Texas girl, I knew there was never a chance of me participating in the sport. I used to tell myself that if I could just learn to spin, I'd be satisfied. To this day, I still haven't done so, but I still really enjoy being a spectator. I am by no means an expert. I can't tell the difference between a triple axel, triple lutz, and a triple toe loop. And honestly, a triple and a quad look pretty much the same to me. But I can tell when they double or single, or land wrong, or are shaky. I can tell when spins don't look right. I can tell when footwork is off, or isn't as difficult. I can see what looks good and what doesn't. I may not see every technical detail that the judges mark, and I'm still struggling with the crazy new system (isn't everyone?), but I know when disasters happen, I know when minor details amount to enough of a difference to affect scores, and I know when things look amazing!

All this to say......what a bunch of crybabies!! All this Russian drama is ridiculous! Guess what? You didn't skate as well! Get over it! It just rubs me the wrong way. It's like football players saying the refs are the reason they lost the game. Or a basketball player saying they missed a free throw because of someone in the stands distracting them. Blaming the system is completely unprofessional and it's not the system's fault. This system is a system based on points, and a shakily landed quad apparently isn't worth as many points as a perfectly, beautifully landed triple. And as far as the ice dancing drama goes, while it hasn't been as loud, it is just as ridiculous. You were out-skated/out-danced. Watching the two original dances side by side, it was obvious that one was much more technically difficult than the other. Plus, you basically cheated with the ropes on your costumes, and because of that now we have to add more rules before the next competition season so that no one seriously injures themselves! And to all the Russians, I don't know what kind of math you do over in Russia, but the rest of the world knows that Level 4 difficulty footwork is worth way more points than dinky simple Level 2 footwork! So quit your whining, and if you want a gold medal, then skate better and earn it!!

Now, I'd hate to end this blog on that negative ranting note, so how about some pictures? This new scoring system has changed some things about skating. Some of them are minor and it's not too big a deal. But a lot of it is not necessarily better. A lot of the skaters now try to put in so many things that earn high difficulty points and then end up not being able to do them, so they score much lower than they're capable of. I think some of the changes have also taken away some of the artistic quality of the skating. Some of the new required elements just don't look as smooth and graceful as I remember skating growing up.

Like this move in pairs. The top move to me is so much prettier, but it has been replaced by the bottom move since the change of the scoring system. It just looks weird!
Um, can you say ouch?! I mean, those blades are sharp!Ok, this is what I was talking about with the cheating ropes and the new rules. The only thing he is holding to keep her in the air is that black rope around her waist. And in the actual program, which I watched, right after this she lets go of his arm. So the only thing keeping her in the air instead of flying to the ice and crashing viciously is that rope around her waist. If that snapped, she'd be in serious trouble. Oh, yeah, and by the way, he's spinning in a circle while they do this.
He throws her so high! The pairs are crazy dangerous, which makes it exciting and scary to watch. And I have to admit I was rooting for this couple because of their story. But also partly because I was pretty sure they could beat Russia, which is always a plus. And the two American pairs really just didn't have the experience this time around to be medal contenders.

Alright, so that's figure skating by me for now. Ladies finish tomorrow night, and if I know my figure skating (which you can judge for yourself) there will be more drama. So maybe I'll post again and nitpick the ladies. But for tonight I think I'm done.

Till next time!

~B~

What's that flaky white stuff falling from the sky?

As a great herald to the beginning of the Winter Olympics, we got about a foot of snow yesterday here in little 'ol Texas. Don't believe me? I figured you might not, so I have proof!!
It was awesome! I have seriously missed real snow since leaving Pennsylvania. I know to a lot of people that deal with it on a fairly consistent basis, that statement may not make much sense. But to me it's a really big deal. When we moved to Pennsylvania when I was ten, I had a lot of firsts. Among them were things like hearing new accents, trying new foods, losing Dr. Pepper, learning new words, experiencing trees change color for fall, and of course SNOW! For five years, I experienced so much that I never imagined was out there and I grew so much being plucked out of my all Texas culture! I really don't think my life would have been the same without those five years out of Texas. Not that we're oblivious to the outside world, we just prefer ours. But living in Pennsylvania, I didn't have the option to prefer my Texas ways, and being forced out of my comfort zone turned out to be really good for me. And since coming back to Texas, there are a lot of things about Pennsylvania that I miss that to most people would probably seem insignificant. And I don't mean the people I met, that's a whole different conversation! I mean things like driving through a tunnel of fall-colored leaves in Valley Forge, building a snow fort with mom's Tupperware, chasing Daisy over the ice because her electric fence stopped working, playing outside all summer when everyone else thought it was hot, walking to the milk store, and having things like hoagies and pierogies on the school lunch menu. So to me it just feels kind of magical to have something from that period of my childhood show up here in Texas. It doesn't happen often, especially on a scale like yesterday's snow. But when it does, it brings back so many happy memories of things I just don't get here. And I like a little magic now and then.

Like the Olympics. Talk about some magic. I am a HUGE fan of the Olympics, so for the next three weeks (I believe) you'll probably be getting a lot of that from me! It is just so cool to me that everybody around the world can put all differences aside and just come together for such a magical experience. I have always loved watching it. Some of you may call me a dork, but that's ok, I've heard it from my family quite a bit, so I'm not offended! I just love it! I'm watching the Opening Ceremonies as I type this blog actually, and I must say I am really enjoying it!

That being said, I don't really feel it's appropriate to gush too much tonight in light of what happened today. If you are on my Facebook, or watched the news at all today, I'm sure you've seen the story of the tragic death of a luge athlete from the country of Georgia. There really isn't much to say except that tonight's dedication of the Ceremonies was very fitting, and that I'm very touched and proud of the rest of the Georgian contingent for staying in the Games and for all the athletes wearing arm bands in his honor. For tonight, as a fan of the Olympics and everything it stands for, I'd like to leave it at this. I was very sad to hear this news, as I'm sure all other athletes and fans were also. My thoughts and prayers for safety are with his family, his countrymen, his fellow athletes, especially those racing on the very track he crashed on, and all those involved in these Olympics. I'm sure they would appreciate your thoughts and prayers as well.

Go Red for Women

Most of you that actually follow me probably know that I've been with my husband since 2001. I've known him and his family for 10 years now. (I just realized as I stopped to count before I typed that, that I've known them for a decade. 10 years of my 23. Wow.) His parents have considered me part of their family probably since that first year we were dating, so obviously we're close. Almost two years ago now, my mother-in-law had a heart attack. It was April 9th. It was raining that day, and I was sitting in Firestone waiting for an oil change. My husband (then fiance) was in Brownwood at school. It was a scary, scary, very long day. Miraculously, a radical treatment was effective, she had a double bypass, a defibrillator put in, and recovered extremely well. So well, in fact, that she was able to attend both my husband's graduation that May and our wedding that June. She was amazing. She even went back to work full time that August. This is the short version, of course. But the important points are that this experience made all of us very aware of the Go Red for Women cause, and we are all so grateful to still have her around and basically back to normal.

Which brings me to Go Red for Women. Friday was Go Red for Women Day, which means you're supposed to wear red to spread awareness about heart disease in women and show your support for the cause. Last year we paid a little more attention, I think because I was involved with a district at the time and it was on their calendar and it's a big influence on the kids when teachers participate in things like that. However, this year it kind of snuck up on us, which is why this post is coming after instead of leading up to the day to get you to participate as well. We still participated though, and next year I will so be on top of things and spreading the word beforehand like a good little supporter!!

So, here's how the day went. Oh, and just FYI, the batteries in the digital camera are "exhausted" and the dumb thing won't come on, and I didn't want to mess with setting up my tripod, learning how to use the self-timer, and waiting for film to get developed, so all of these are with my phone. I know they're not great, but just pretend.
I had some errands to run during the day, and it was pretty chilly Friday, so this was my day look for Go Red. Red sweater, jeans, my cheap red plastic bead jewelry (because it's fun and bold), and my awesome gray boots I got for Christmas that I absolutely looooove!
It was such a nice day, I drove with my window down! I love that! And of course, I had my jams on; that day happened to be Sara Bareilles "Little Voice" and Britney Spears "Circus". Now, I must be very clear here, I DO NOT think it is okay to take pictures with your cell phone while behind the wheel. But, I was in park waiting for a train just outside the neighborhood, so I bent my own rule just a smidge. Seriously though, I was in park or I would not have done this, and if you don't believe me, I have a picture of the train.
That night also happened to be a night that we had tickets to a Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra concert. Friday nights are technically casual at Bass Hall, but we like to get dressed up anyway and make it a fun date night. I made James take a picture of my evening look to compare to my daytime look. Swapped my jeans for gray slacks, traded my boots for cute red flats, added some lipstick, and switched my jewelry to some more sophisticated red and black pieces.Usually this shot would be a lot cleaner, but apparently I need to practice holding my phone a little more steady to take pictures. Ignore the blur, no one else was home to take the picture. The point is we were all dressed up, both in red, and we got to go out!

So that was our Go Red day. Just a little more plugging and then I'll quit, I promise. Heart disease is the number 1 killer of women in America. We also found a Facebook fan page for the cause, which we both added. I also signed up on the official web page to be a part of the cause. You can too here, and it is not required to donate or fundraise to register, but of course if you're able that's great! You get a free red dress pin for signing up, which is the symbol of Go Red. (I think they do this because the red ribbon is already a symbol for AIDS, and the movement is for women, so the dress fits.) You also get access to all the tools on the website, which is backed by the American Heart Association. There's lots of cool stuff there, including heart-healthy recipes, a 12-week plan to get healthy, a heart check-up tool, and fun stuff like shopping! I believe I'll also be getting emails about upcoming events, next year's Go Red day, and such. I unfortunately couldn't donate at the time, but I feel really good about at least participating in this small way! We came so close to losing my mother-in-law to this disease, that I just feel like I can't ignore the fact that we still have her around! At some point I am sure it will become part of our budget to contribute to causes that are close to our hearts (no pun intended), but for now I feel like the least I can do is spread the word and my passion and make other women aware.

So, Mrs. Henderson has officially joined Go Red! I'd love for you to join me!

Did you miss me?

I think my computer is working well enough to call of the hiatus. I hope I'm not jinxing myself saying that. I've had this issue with this laptop before and was told the problem was the actual cord itself, so we bought a new one directly from Dell. However, now that it's repeating itself, I'm wondering how accurate a diagnosis that really was. So, we'll see how it goes.

Anyway, I don't really have time for a real entry at the moment, as I'm trying to knock some emails off my to-do list. They're kind of important, dealing with my grad school application. So, if I finish I might come back. But bedtime has to be early tonight because I actually have a sub job in the morning. I know, shocking. But it's true. Cross your fingers that someone will call me with an interview offer for all the part-time jobs I've been applying for. That's kind of how my luck works so I'm hoping since I won't be able to answer my phone it'll be the day someone chooses to call.

Until I get to actually blog, I'll share a picture. I made this clipboard anticipating having a classroom. It's in storage right now, since that hasn't actually happened. But I'm pretty proud of it and hoping I get to use it soon.

Already??

Unfortuately, before it's even really started, my blog will be taking a (hopefully brief) hiatus. This is due to the fact that Dell is evil and hates me and my laptop is now dead. As in, won't come on, isn't charging the battery, won't even work with the power cord, might as well go "Office Space" on the stupid thing dead. Dead. I am less than pleased. Obviously.

So, don't leave me. I'll be back. I swear. I like this blog. Just be patient with me, I need a working computer and then the hiatus will be over. Pinky swear.

More wishful thinking....

I know it's been a few days since I posted, but I've had some personal stuff going on at home that took priority. I don't have anything real exciting to post about, but as I've been sitting around the last few days I've done some more fantasy window internet shopping. So, I thought I'd post some more of the pretty things I've found for everyone to look at and be happy!

This dress is too cute. It's BCBG Maxazria.
And these shoes are almost exactly like the ones she has on. They're from Forever 21.

This dress is also BCBG Maxazria, and I think it's gorgeous!
And I personally think these Steve Madden shoes go much better than hers!

And I just couldn't resist a cute bag!! This is a Franco Sarto, listed on Zappos.