I met Andrea in French Class. We worked on a group project once and she basically had to write out my entire section phonetically. When we went to France, she, Michelle and I shared an hotel room together in Paris. The first thing we did was walk 15 blocks away to a liquor store and buy a bottle of something. Then, we proceeded to sneak it into our room and drink it, but then we were stuck with the bottle as evidence. We ended up putting it inside several bags and throwing it out a window into the alley. Kind of pathetic, really.
Another night, we decided we had to go out and party because we were 16 and that was the legal drinking age. We asked the cute French boy at the hotel desk what bar to go to, got on the subway, walked several blocks and entered some bar named after a Mustang. In some mangled French, we ordered beers. As I'm putting the bottle to my lips, the bartender asks how old we are. I tell him I'm soixante. After a few minutes of arguing about it, he took our beers away. Once we were outside Andrea says, "16 is seize; soixante is 60." O, well, I guess once we had been kicked out was the time to tell me that.
We tried to go clubbing twice. One night, we had to pick up old 'Roxbury' guys outside the club in order to get in because there were no "bands" allowed. We were turned away because our dress was too "sporty." On the way home on the bus we spoke to a guy who hated Americans because we are spoiled and ignorant. The next night, we dressed in the sluttiest clothes we had brought and the club was closed because it was some Catholic holiday. By the time we headed home, the buses had stopped running, and we had to take a ride with an unbelievably creepy taxi driver.
We continued to sneak out of most every hotel room we shared during our two weeks in France. If Andrea hadn't been there, I would have slept a full nine hours every night and have no stories to tell. Quelle tragédie!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Day 52 - Lucas
I went to high school with Lucas. He was a year older than me, played tuba and was gay. I'm pretty sure he was the only person near my age who I knew was gay. Of course, at the time, the only other person who I personally knew and knew was definitely gay, was my uncle. Knowing my uncle is gay was never a big deal for me. There was no real discussion about it; he loved a man, not a woman, what's the big deal? I feel like I always knew. (In fact, I grew up not really understanding the "are they - aren't they" question. You loved who you loved, who cared?) So, the mere fact that Lucas was gay, was not, to me, a big deal; however, I did go to a school in white suburban Texas and the majority of my peers were born into a fairly strict Baptist environment. I don't think they shared my exact belief. I'm not sure how "out" Lucas was, mostly because I never asked. Teenagers talk, non-stop, and I had a vague understanding.
The summer after my sophomore year, I went to France with some of the members of my school's French Club. Lucas was one of about twenty of us. We flew to Paris and met up with two other school groups, both from the mid-west. Their Minnesota accents amused us and those of us who had Texas accents amused them, so the pronunciation of English words was brought up quite frequently. One night, we were walking down a street and we were again comparing words, in particular those that had a long 'A': 'tag', 'wag', 'bag', etc.
Maybe you can see where this is going?
I brought up the word 'fag'. I didn't do it to be malicious, but that is never the point. The point is I initiated a moment where 5 of more kids were walking down the street, taking turns saying, "fag" and giggling. I would liked to have erased the last five minutes, crawled into a hole and hidden out for weeks once I realized Lucas was yelling from behind me to stop. I tried, lamely, to explain that I did not necessarily mean the word when it refers to gays. I'm pretty sure I even brought up the fact that I could have meant a cigarette just like the one he was smoking. Again, that wasn't the point.
This is one instance when I used language I knew was not considerate, but only began to regret it once a friend called me out on it. I think most of us try not to, but tend to speak without completely considering our words. I know I still do. Someone who will confront you and ask if you were really thinking about what you said: those are the best people to surround yourself with.
The summer after my sophomore year, I went to France with some of the members of my school's French Club. Lucas was one of about twenty of us. We flew to Paris and met up with two other school groups, both from the mid-west. Their Minnesota accents amused us and those of us who had Texas accents amused them, so the pronunciation of English words was brought up quite frequently. One night, we were walking down a street and we were again comparing words, in particular those that had a long 'A': 'tag', 'wag', 'bag', etc.
Maybe you can see where this is going?
I brought up the word 'fag'. I didn't do it to be malicious, but that is never the point. The point is I initiated a moment where 5 of more kids were walking down the street, taking turns saying, "fag" and giggling. I would liked to have erased the last five minutes, crawled into a hole and hidden out for weeks once I realized Lucas was yelling from behind me to stop. I tried, lamely, to explain that I did not necessarily mean the word when it refers to gays. I'm pretty sure I even brought up the fact that I could have meant a cigarette just like the one he was smoking. Again, that wasn't the point.
This is one instance when I used language I knew was not considerate, but only began to regret it once a friend called me out on it. I think most of us try not to, but tend to speak without completely considering our words. I know I still do. Someone who will confront you and ask if you were really thinking about what you said: those are the best people to surround yourself with.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Day 51 - Jon
A few things I knew about Jon: he played trombone, his little sister was a hoot, he liked 311, The Beastie Boys and Blink 182, he had long fingers, his dirty blond hair was adorably curly and his family was of the Aggie persuasion. I liked Jon, I liked flirting with him. For me, he was just too cute to believe. I thought he would be a fun guy to date the summer after sophomore year.
I assumed it would start if we went to see X-men like we had vaguely talked about. My friend Christie was in town and we met Jon and Vince at Tinseltown to see the movie. It became clear through the experience that it wasn't going to happen. What a bummer.
It's going to sound conceited, but at least it'll be honest: Jon taught me that I wasn't going to get to date every guy I liked. That's not exactly what I mean. I never thought I could date anyone I pleased. I don't over estimate myself. There were unattainable crushes, but then there were boys you had a chance with.
So far in high school, if I liked a guy I had a chance with, I got a date out of it. It was like magic. But now, a chance did not guarantee anything. Yes, we could flirt and hint at something, but it might not work. Things had happened far too easily with David, I just assumed relationships appeared out of nowhere as soon as two people liked each other. O, silly, naive Andrea, that's just not the case. Stars have to align, planets need to shift, cupid must aim well. (Or something less romantic, but still dramatic.)
I assumed it would start if we went to see X-men like we had vaguely talked about. My friend Christie was in town and we met Jon and Vince at Tinseltown to see the movie. It became clear through the experience that it wasn't going to happen. What a bummer.
It's funny, but the nonchalant way I refer to the idea of dating Jon was really how I felt about it. If he had actually asked me out, I would have responded, "cool." It was a sign I didn't yet know to look for.
It's going to sound conceited, but at least it'll be honest: Jon taught me that I wasn't going to get to date every guy I liked. That's not exactly what I mean. I never thought I could date anyone I pleased. I don't over estimate myself. There were unattainable crushes, but then there were boys you had a chance with.
So far in high school, if I liked a guy I had a chance with, I got a date out of it. It was like magic. But now, a chance did not guarantee anything. Yes, we could flirt and hint at something, but it might not work. Things had happened far too easily with David, I just assumed relationships appeared out of nowhere as soon as two people liked each other. O, silly, naive Andrea, that's just not the case. Stars have to align, planets need to shift, cupid must aim well. (Or something less romantic, but still dramatic.)
Day 50 - John
John was sweet; goofy, but sweet. After Dave broke up with me, I was facing Band Banquet with no date. It wasn't a travesty; in fact, Laura and I had decided it would be good for me. John sat with Laura and I at lunch that year. He didn't have a date either, so we decided to go as friends. It was a nice, big group event. My friends and their dates all met at my house and then at the actual dance, you sit in a group of ten for dinner. John was sweet, so I had a good time.
A few weeks later, he told me he had such a good time with me. "Would you consider going to Prom with me?" Well, it seemed harmless, and fun. I don't remember much about pictures, dinner or the dance. The lock-in after prom party at the arcade, I do remember. I didn't spend a huge portion of it with John, because I knew a lot of other people there and he seemed fine hanging with his friends. I was Jon's and Vince's lucky charm at the poker tables, then we bowled a few rounds of speed bowling and rounded it all off with some arcade games. It was a blast!
After the after party, Megan, Bobby and all of them were going to Justin's parents' lake house to party through the weekend. Somehow, I convinced my parents I could go (I think Megan helped convince them, actually). Honestly, it was so much to take in. I was half-trying not to get caught alone with John, just in case, so I was meandering through and around a lake house alone. Wandering past scenes I had only seen in movies and sipping on rum and milk. The whole experience was very surreal. At one point there was a half-naked gorgegous man named Tyger dancing around the living room. I think I tried to teach him some dance move to the song that was on. Oh, Tyger.
Without John, I may have remained innocent to all sorts of party-related debauchery and drama all through high school.
A few weeks later, he told me he had such a good time with me. "Would you consider going to Prom with me?" Well, it seemed harmless, and fun. I don't remember much about pictures, dinner or the dance. The lock-in after prom party at the arcade, I do remember. I didn't spend a huge portion of it with John, because I knew a lot of other people there and he seemed fine hanging with his friends. I was Jon's and Vince's lucky charm at the poker tables, then we bowled a few rounds of speed bowling and rounded it all off with some arcade games. It was a blast!
After the after party, Megan, Bobby and all of them were going to Justin's parents' lake house to party through the weekend. Somehow, I convinced my parents I could go (I think Megan helped convince them, actually). Honestly, it was so much to take in. I was half-trying not to get caught alone with John, just in case, so I was meandering through and around a lake house alone. Wandering past scenes I had only seen in movies and sipping on rum and milk. The whole experience was very surreal. At one point there was a half-naked gorgegous man named Tyger dancing around the living room. I think I tried to teach him some dance move to the song that was on. Oh, Tyger.
Without John, I may have remained innocent to all sorts of party-related debauchery and drama all through high school.
Day 49 - Laura
I have this bad habit of comparing new people I meet with people I already know. In Laura's case, when I met her, I thought, "She's a lot like my friend, Erin." She was sweet, funny, friendly and religious. Of course, once I get to know the new people better I realize their differences, but essentially, something about them remains... well, in this case "Erin-ish". I find it endless interesting.
Laura was a great friend. We ate lunch together and took water breaks together during band. She had a birthday party with a Mary Kay demo once. It was so fun! She was much girlie and proper than me and I'd like to think some of it rubbed off on me. Laura was really the first girl with whom I had "girl-talks". She would fill me in on her boyfriend, and I'd reciprocate. We'd brainstorm reasons for their behavior or how we should proceed or why we would ever like the people we liked. I was there for her during the rough times and she offered help when I needed it. I also swore less when I was around Laura, which is always good.
All-in-all, Laura was a nice, steady, positive influence on me during a time when I was highly susceptible to influences of all kinds.
Laura was a great friend. We ate lunch together and took water breaks together during band. She had a birthday party with a Mary Kay demo once. It was so fun! She was much girlie and proper than me and I'd like to think some of it rubbed off on me. Laura was really the first girl with whom I had "girl-talks". She would fill me in on her boyfriend, and I'd reciprocate. We'd brainstorm reasons for their behavior or how we should proceed or why we would ever like the people we liked. I was there for her during the rough times and she offered help when I needed it. I also swore less when I was around Laura, which is always good.
All-in-all, Laura was a nice, steady, positive influence on me during a time when I was highly susceptible to influences of all kinds.
Day 48 - Ms. Durham
Ms. Durham was my biology teacher Sophomore year. She was fantastic! It's funny to place her right after Mr. Smith, because she was another non-traditional teacher. She would bring up inappropriate subject matter to explain biology. She never weirded me out, maybe it was because she was a woman.
I learned about how to soothe a sting from a jellyfish by peeing on it and how to remember the organization of living things: Kinky Perverts Come Over For Group Sex (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Group, Sex). She also showed us videos with drunk animals, hermaphrodites, and other exciting phenomenon. Biology is the one science in High School I really remember and it's all because of Ms. Durham.
I learned about how to soothe a sting from a jellyfish by peeing on it and how to remember the organization of living things: Kinky Perverts Come Over For Group Sex (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Group, Sex). She also showed us videos with drunk animals, hermaphrodites, and other exciting phenomenon. Biology is the one science in High School I really remember and it's all because of Ms. Durham.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Day 47 - Mr. Smith
Mr. Smith was fairly short, stout, wore round wire-framed glasses, had bright red, curly hair which was balding on top and tied back in a longish ponytail in the back. He was a pale Irishman who blushed easily and told inappropriate jokes while teaching history. A lot of my peers loved Mr. Smith because he wasn't a traditional teacher. He would begin a debate on censorship by complaining about Wal-mart bleeping out his Snoop Dogg CD. He listened to Snoop Dogg for the profanity, didn't everyone?
The off-putting thing about Mr. Smith for me was his sexism. He made awful, sexist jokes, specifically about one of our assistant principals. She was a tall, fairly attractive blond and when she would come into the room he'd make a joke and then go over and talk to her. Once she left he'd tell us something like, "She just promised to come over later tonight; I have some curtains I need hung." And laughter would rise up around me. Ugh.
He also had this bizarre touchy relationship with girls. Personally, he used to crack my knuckles. I never wanted to crack my knuckles or have him do it. He'd grab my hands and squeeze my fits until they popped. It was strange. Usually I would only talk to him outside of class when Keith wanted to talk to him.
I don't know if Mr. Smith crossed the line with anyone else. I'm not sure I would necessarily say he was sexually harassing me, but he was a dirty-minded fellow. He was the first dirty man I had to deal with. There have been countless more since him, but I learned the beginnings of how to silence them with a glare, weasel out of encounters without insulting them, and how to avoid them.
The off-putting thing about Mr. Smith for me was his sexism. He made awful, sexist jokes, specifically about one of our assistant principals. She was a tall, fairly attractive blond and when she would come into the room he'd make a joke and then go over and talk to her. Once she left he'd tell us something like, "She just promised to come over later tonight; I have some curtains I need hung." And laughter would rise up around me. Ugh.
He also had this bizarre touchy relationship with girls. Personally, he used to crack my knuckles. I never wanted to crack my knuckles or have him do it. He'd grab my hands and squeeze my fits until they popped. It was strange. Usually I would only talk to him outside of class when Keith wanted to talk to him.
I don't know if Mr. Smith crossed the line with anyone else. I'm not sure I would necessarily say he was sexually harassing me, but he was a dirty-minded fellow. He was the first dirty man I had to deal with. There have been countless more since him, but I learned the beginnings of how to silence them with a glare, weasel out of encounters without insulting them, and how to avoid them.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Day 46 - Jeff
Jeff was David's best friend. They had made a bet on the bus in NYC over me. I didn't find this out until I was really emotionally invested in Dave. Since I loved David and while he thought it was the best bet he'd ever won, was sorry, and Jeff laughed about it, I hated Jeff. I thought he was heartless and conniving.
Jeff is technically the reason David and I were ever together. In the end, I can't be too mad at Jeff. In fact, thanks Jeff.
Jeff is technically the reason David and I were ever together. In the end, I can't be too mad at Jeff. In fact, thanks Jeff.
Day 45 -David F
David was my first love. It's hard for me to rationalize my feelings for him. When I list attributes I liked about him, a large majority of guys could easily take his place. He was sweet, cute, funny, and respectful, but he was irreplaceable too.
I loved David, because when he looked in my eyes, I felt like we were looking directly into each other's hearts and it became difficult to breathe. I loved David because every time he held my hand, it tingled up my arm, down my spine and settled in the pit of my stomach. I loved David because anytime we kissed, the world melted away and time stood still. I know it sounds like a cliche movie, and my only defense is that movies are written that way for a reason.
I didn't know David until we were sitting across from each other on the band's tour bus in New York City. I feel like from the very moment we shared hello's we were inseparable. We walked through the Met together, he first held my hand while we were standing around Strawberry Fields in Central Park, he first kissed me on the ferry ride to Liberty Island, he first fed me in China Town, we sat next to each other at Les Miserables and on the flight home. It's a wonderful list for a movie montage.
He broke up with me a week after we got back to Houston, because he thought we were moving too fast. The next day, he called me to say he changed his mind. Not long after, he graduated and I went to all the graduation parties with him. We celebrated July Fourth early with a picnic, fireworks, a blanket and the stars in the park. (The mosquitoes were swarming too, inflicting bites which would become a long-running inside joke). The next day David flew to Ireland for nearly two months. It was dreadful, but we wrote to each other most everyday. We even kept odd hours to be able to IM. Sometime in late July, he IMed me to make sure I was by my phone. I answered before the first ring could sound. He only had a minute, but he couldn't wait to tell me anymore: He loved me! I couldn't believe it. I was giddy with joy and overflowing with excitement to return the sentiment.
By August, when I went to the airport with his family to pick him up, I was full thoughts and love for David. He was only home one week before he went to college in a town eight hours away, but we were committed to each other. He didn't come home often, so when he did it was amazing. The day after I turned 16 that December, I got a job where he worked so that we could spend the upcoming summer together. A couple weeks later, he sent me a note: "It's too hard" it began.
He broke up with me in the mail. I was devastated. I was distraught. I was destroyed.
I heard he had started dating someone in college and the timeline was a little hazy as far as any overlapping was concerned. My spring semester passed with depression, anger, bitterness and trying to get over him by dating someone else. That summer, I got my original wish: we were working together. I tricked myself into believing I could be his friend, but a part of me was still too in love. We flirted enough that our coworkers asked me if we were dating. I'd explained our history and they convinced me that he wanted me back. That final glimmer of hope fizzled out after several different near misses. The last nail in the coffin was driven in by a good date with a new guy with the beginnings of all the tingles and moments of suspended time.
David taught me nearly the entire spectrum of love. I'll never forget him.
I loved David, because when he looked in my eyes, I felt like we were looking directly into each other's hearts and it became difficult to breathe. I loved David because every time he held my hand, it tingled up my arm, down my spine and settled in the pit of my stomach. I loved David because anytime we kissed, the world melted away and time stood still. I know it sounds like a cliche movie, and my only defense is that movies are written that way for a reason.
I didn't know David until we were sitting across from each other on the band's tour bus in New York City. I feel like from the very moment we shared hello's we were inseparable. We walked through the Met together, he first held my hand while we were standing around Strawberry Fields in Central Park, he first kissed me on the ferry ride to Liberty Island, he first fed me in China Town, we sat next to each other at Les Miserables and on the flight home. It's a wonderful list for a movie montage.
He broke up with me a week after we got back to Houston, because he thought we were moving too fast. The next day, he called me to say he changed his mind. Not long after, he graduated and I went to all the graduation parties with him. We celebrated July Fourth early with a picnic, fireworks, a blanket and the stars in the park. (The mosquitoes were swarming too, inflicting bites which would become a long-running inside joke). The next day David flew to Ireland for nearly two months. It was dreadful, but we wrote to each other most everyday. We even kept odd hours to be able to IM. Sometime in late July, he IMed me to make sure I was by my phone. I answered before the first ring could sound. He only had a minute, but he couldn't wait to tell me anymore: He loved me! I couldn't believe it. I was giddy with joy and overflowing with excitement to return the sentiment.
By August, when I went to the airport with his family to pick him up, I was full thoughts and love for David. He was only home one week before he went to college in a town eight hours away, but we were committed to each other. He didn't come home often, so when he did it was amazing. The day after I turned 16 that December, I got a job where he worked so that we could spend the upcoming summer together. A couple weeks later, he sent me a note: "It's too hard" it began.
He broke up with me in the mail. I was devastated. I was distraught. I was destroyed.
I heard he had started dating someone in college and the timeline was a little hazy as far as any overlapping was concerned. My spring semester passed with depression, anger, bitterness and trying to get over him by dating someone else. That summer, I got my original wish: we were working together. I tricked myself into believing I could be his friend, but a part of me was still too in love. We flirted enough that our coworkers asked me if we were dating. I'd explained our history and they convinced me that he wanted me back. That final glimmer of hope fizzled out after several different near misses. The last nail in the coffin was driven in by a good date with a new guy with the beginnings of all the tingles and moments of suspended time.
David taught me nearly the entire spectrum of love. I'll never forget him.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Day 44 - Katherine
Katherine and I were usually bus buddies on game days. Katherine was quiet, but fun. I identified with that. With Katherine I could be just myself; I didn't have to try to impress her. She would say the most outrageous things to me and I'd be shocked into laughter. We shared a hotel room with Megan and Raeann when we were in New York for the band trip. We didn't sleep a lot that weekend. I think the curfew was 11 or 12, but we'd stay up hours later giggling and having Megan and Raeann hiss at us to go to sleep.
It's funny as I write about these people I got to know Freshmen year, but didn't really stay friends with. Mostly, I can't remember specific events that made us fall apart. It's not as if we walked passed each other in the halls without a smile, nod or hello. It's not as if we talked bad about each other. We just stopped making plans or calling each other, or confiding, giggling and venting together. I'm not sure what that's about. I'm finally beginning to understand that friendships are fragile relationships. Honestly, there is never any concrete thing keeping you tied into the contract. You have to work at it, continuously re-commit yourself to the friendship. Right?
It's funny as I write about these people I got to know Freshmen year, but didn't really stay friends with. Mostly, I can't remember specific events that made us fall apart. It's not as if we walked passed each other in the halls without a smile, nod or hello. It's not as if we talked bad about each other. We just stopped making plans or calling each other, or confiding, giggling and venting together. I'm not sure what that's about. I'm finally beginning to understand that friendships are fragile relationships. Honestly, there is never any concrete thing keeping you tied into the contract. You have to work at it, continuously re-commit yourself to the friendship. Right?
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Day 42 - David P
David was the lead snare drummer, funny and cute. Actually, I'm not sure that he was the lead my Freshman year because he was only a Junior, but he was still a staple of my band experience. David asked me to go to Homecoming... with Elliot. He didn't do it straight forwardly and was flirting with me up until the actual question. Elliot was adorable, but how can you remember his cute smile when you're staring into David's eyes and think there may be a chance to be with David if you say no to Elliot? Also, I had a feeling David was teasing me about Elliot. I honestly didn't see how Elliot could like me plus I thought there was some kind of moratorium on having someone else ask out a girl for you once in High School. David didn't ask me out, and my friend Tram ended up going with Elliot, which was secretly torturous for me.
Day 43 - Meghan
I met Meghan in the required Health class of Freshman year. That class involves all the usual things you'd imagine it would: STD's, reproductive organ diagrams, birthing videos, anti-drug campaigns, drunk goggles. Basically, there was a lot to bond over. She took me on my first trip to Astroworld on Halloween with her best friend. We went through a clown haunted house. It was my first haunted house and we got separated. I ended up clinging to the man behind me and I don't think his date appreciated it. After we escaped the psycho clowns, Meghan and Allison wanted to try the bigger, scarier haunted house. I stayed outside and scared myself just listening to the screams and chainsaw motors.
Meghan and I were good at entertaining each other in almost any situation. We'd spend hours playing around in K-mart, or sitting in her room listening to music. We were never in the same class again and she did cheerleading outside of school and choir and I did band (and only band). We still got together fairly regularly and even went to Disney world after graduation. Since high school, Meg visited Oklahoma (which is loyalty) and we've had some crazy nights out in Austin and in Houston and had one of the slowest river floats of my life.
Meghan and I were good at entertaining each other in almost any situation. We'd spend hours playing around in K-mart, or sitting in her room listening to music. We were never in the same class again and she did cheerleading outside of school and choir and I did band (and only band). We still got together fairly regularly and even went to Disney world after graduation. Since high school, Meg visited Oklahoma (which is loyalty) and we've had some crazy nights out in Austin and in Houston and had one of the slowest river floats of my life.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Day 41 - Mrs. Forester
This will be my last post about my first hour class freshman year, I promise. Ms. Forester was the teacher. She was a little less than put together and had thick, thick glasses, but was sweet and soft-spoken. She was an easy target for The Heathers. Pretty far into the year, we enter the classroom to find Ms. Forester sitting on a stool in front of the class looking awful. While trying to tell us her husband left her and her two sons the night before, she started sobbing and left the classroom. Ugh. My heart broke and went out to her.
The Heathers started laughing as soon as the door closed behind Ms. Forester. It was the first time I truly stood up against them. I still can't imagine trying to explain such a terrible experience to 25 fourteen year olds, half of whom you know already look for excuses to make fun of you.
By the end of the year, I had become closer to Ms. Forester than most of her other students. It was always a shaky relationship, but I felt such a kinship with her. I felt we were kindred spirits trying to put up with the same awful people our first year in this huge school. I stopped by her classroom occasionally throughout my four years at Cy Creek. She got to leave the entry-level freshman classes and took on sophomores and Juniors in Chemistry, I believe.
My Senior year, I read somewhere (or someone suggested it and I actually listened) that writing notes to teachers who really impacted you would be nice. Mrs. Forester was one of the first ones I wrote. She stopped me in the hall my last week looking ecstatic and thanked me a dozen times. I don't think I have ever felt more appreciated for doing such a small thing. It's a lesson I've lost sight of, and I'm glad I thought of it today.
The Heathers started laughing as soon as the door closed behind Ms. Forester. It was the first time I truly stood up against them. I still can't imagine trying to explain such a terrible experience to 25 fourteen year olds, half of whom you know already look for excuses to make fun of you.
By the end of the year, I had become closer to Ms. Forester than most of her other students. It was always a shaky relationship, but I felt such a kinship with her. I felt we were kindred spirits trying to put up with the same awful people our first year in this huge school. I stopped by her classroom occasionally throughout my four years at Cy Creek. She got to leave the entry-level freshman classes and took on sophomores and Juniors in Chemistry, I believe.
My Senior year, I read somewhere (or someone suggested it and I actually listened) that writing notes to teachers who really impacted you would be nice. Mrs. Forester was one of the first ones I wrote. She stopped me in the hall my last week looking ecstatic and thanked me a dozen times. I don't think I have ever felt more appreciated for doing such a small thing. It's a lesson I've lost sight of, and I'm glad I thought of it today.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Day 40 - Ben
If you haven't, please read Day 39. Now, imagine a beautiful, smart, funny, sweet jock-type guy sitting two seats behind me. That's Ben, first hour's saving grace. I never thought I had a chance with Ben, and that allowed me to act normally around him. He was "friends" with The Heathers, but would argue with them and stand up for those they tore down. He did it in a way that made them like him more. He was so great.
We were basic acquaintances. When we worked on class projects together, it was enjoyable and when we got stuck on worksheets, we helped each other out. We weren't friends and I was actually surprised the first time he said my name. I didn't think he knew my name.
All four years of high school and Ben never failed to impress me. He always remembered my name even though we never had another class together and shared no mutual friends or activities. Anytime we made eye contact in the hall, he'd say hello. For me, Ben was the poster boy for sweet, smart jocks who didn't let it go to their heads.
We were basic acquaintances. When we worked on class projects together, it was enjoyable and when we got stuck on worksheets, we helped each other out. We weren't friends and I was actually surprised the first time he said my name. I didn't think he knew my name.
All four years of high school and Ben never failed to impress me. He always remembered my name even though we never had another class together and shared no mutual friends or activities. Anytime we made eye contact in the hall, he'd say hello. For me, Ben was the poster boy for sweet, smart jocks who didn't let it go to their heads.
Day 39 - The Heathers
My first class the first day in a high school where I only knew band kids and I met them just weeks earlier was Integrated Physics and Chemistry. I was retaking it because my middle school called it something different. There were no band kids in this class and I was flanked by Heathers. I'm not being clever. There was a blond Heather to my left and a blonder Heather to my right and of course they were friends. They were awful, mean-spirited girls who gossiped, made fun of everyone loudly and copied off of me.
During that first class, I was thinking how the move to Texas was a terrible mistake and the nice kids in band were a fluke not to be repeated. Heather on the left was talking about softball try-outs and how she was sure she, Jennifer, Lauren, Becky and Megan were going to make it, but hoped Rachel didn't. "Rachel's a bitch and the girls from Bammel Junior High are sluts, dontcha think?" Heather on the right was listing off the parties she had gone to that summer, the guys who had been there and the unbelievably lame girls who tried to go. "I mean, they didn't even bring their own drinks!"
I had been considering trying out for softball and had even considered having a social life up until those first five minutes.
The Heathers influenced my first year more than I'd like to admit. The initial shock wore off, but I never tried-out for softball, and I avoided the party people like the plague. On the plus side, I became really good at the under-handed snide come-back and covering my answers.
During that first class, I was thinking how the move to Texas was a terrible mistake and the nice kids in band were a fluke not to be repeated. Heather on the left was talking about softball try-outs and how she was sure she, Jennifer, Lauren, Becky and Megan were going to make it, but hoped Rachel didn't. "Rachel's a bitch and the girls from Bammel Junior High are sluts, dontcha think?" Heather on the right was listing off the parties she had gone to that summer, the guys who had been there and the unbelievably lame girls who tried to go. "I mean, they didn't even bring their own drinks!"
I had been considering trying out for softball and had even considered having a social life up until those first five minutes.
The Heathers influenced my first year more than I'd like to admit. The initial shock wore off, but I never tried-out for softball, and I avoided the party people like the plague. On the plus side, I became really good at the under-handed snide come-back and covering my answers.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Day 38 - Matt
I must admit: I suck at turning down guys. I was terrible at it in middle school (including one time, when I said yes, ran away, and called him after school to say I had made a mistake). I was bad at it in high school (as this entry will illustrate). Luckily, with some help, I began to learn in college (believe me, stories are on their way). Now, I can generally get the point across, but I know I still perform at a beginner's level. My worst high school experience was with Matt.
Matt asked me to go to Band Banquet with him my freshman year. Band Banquet is just what you think it is; it's a banquet held in the spring for band members to dress up, dance, and celebrate the past year. It was my first dance, because I didn't go to Homecoming (which is another story with the opposite lesson). I accepted because Matt was nice and I knew it meant I'd be with Megan, Bobby and all of them at the banquet. I remember that taking the pictures was a little awkward, but I don't remember a lot of moments we shared that night. I'm not even sure how much we danced together. I do remember that Lezlie Walla had the hottest date and it was a much-talked about occurrence.
After the dance, it became clear Matt thought something was starting between us and I didn't really want there to be. He asked me out one Friday night and I told him I wasn't sure, because I thought I was doing something with Tram. I told him to call me after school and we'd see. I basically was trying to postpone the inevitable. Tram and I went out and saw a movie and I never got a call from Matt.
When I returned home that night, I was so excited; I thought I had dodged the bullet.
No such luck. Matt showed up at my house, expecting to take me out. No call, just showed up. I guess he thought I was playing hard to get, or he misunderstood, I don't know. My parents were pissed! I was yelled at, and even worse, I was told how disappointed they were in me. "We didn't raise you to make plans with someone and stand them up!" I was grounded and forced to call Matt and apologize.
The saga does not end there. I think the guilt my parents and Matt's friends were laying on me was powerful and I can only assume my apology was amazing, because he started driving me home more often. By the time the band went to New York a couple weeks later, Matt was hopeful again. He arranged it so we'd be sitting next to each other on the flight. He tried to hold my hand several times and I tried to keep my hands in a constant state of movement: holding a magazine, playing with the tray, turning on and off the lights, adjusting my clothes, chewing my nails, sitting on my hands. Houston to New York is a five hour flight. I'm sure I looked spastic, but I avoided his hand.
I could not get to my girls-only hotel room fast enough that night and was counting my lucky stars Matt was not on my bus the rest of the trip. I didn't know him at the time, but Dave ended up being on my bus. He'll be his own entry, but the short version is, I was happily holding his hand on the flight home and Matt was floored by the development.
I had chosen the absolute harshest form of rejection. I have tried never to repeat all of the mistakes I made with Matt (of which there are even more I didn't tell). I still feel guilty for the way I treated him. Whenever I think telling someone 'no' will be harsh, I remember it could be a lot worse.
Matt asked me to go to Band Banquet with him my freshman year. Band Banquet is just what you think it is; it's a banquet held in the spring for band members to dress up, dance, and celebrate the past year. It was my first dance, because I didn't go to Homecoming (which is another story with the opposite lesson). I accepted because Matt was nice and I knew it meant I'd be with Megan, Bobby and all of them at the banquet. I remember that taking the pictures was a little awkward, but I don't remember a lot of moments we shared that night. I'm not even sure how much we danced together. I do remember that Lezlie Walla had the hottest date and it was a much-talked about occurrence.
After the dance, it became clear Matt thought something was starting between us and I didn't really want there to be. He asked me out one Friday night and I told him I wasn't sure, because I thought I was doing something with Tram. I told him to call me after school and we'd see. I basically was trying to postpone the inevitable. Tram and I went out and saw a movie and I never got a call from Matt.
When I returned home that night, I was so excited; I thought I had dodged the bullet.
No such luck. Matt showed up at my house, expecting to take me out. No call, just showed up. I guess he thought I was playing hard to get, or he misunderstood, I don't know. My parents were pissed! I was yelled at, and even worse, I was told how disappointed they were in me. "We didn't raise you to make plans with someone and stand them up!" I was grounded and forced to call Matt and apologize.
The saga does not end there. I think the guilt my parents and Matt's friends were laying on me was powerful and I can only assume my apology was amazing, because he started driving me home more often. By the time the band went to New York a couple weeks later, Matt was hopeful again. He arranged it so we'd be sitting next to each other on the flight. He tried to hold my hand several times and I tried to keep my hands in a constant state of movement: holding a magazine, playing with the tray, turning on and off the lights, adjusting my clothes, chewing my nails, sitting on my hands. Houston to New York is a five hour flight. I'm sure I looked spastic, but I avoided his hand.
I could not get to my girls-only hotel room fast enough that night and was counting my lucky stars Matt was not on my bus the rest of the trip. I didn't know him at the time, but Dave ended up being on my bus. He'll be his own entry, but the short version is, I was happily holding his hand on the flight home and Matt was floored by the development.
I had chosen the absolute harshest form of rejection. I have tried never to repeat all of the mistakes I made with Matt (of which there are even more I didn't tell). I still feel guilty for the way I treated him. Whenever I think telling someone 'no' will be harsh, I remember it could be a lot worse.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Day 37 - Taylor
Taylor was someone I met through Justin. It's hard to describe him exactly. He had an air about him that was off-putting and fascinating all at once. We had a relaxed acquaintanceship. We would exchange pleasantries and occasionally make jokes or mention a personal matter, but not much of substance.
I got Taylor in trouble with the cops. I'm still confused as to how it really happened because we weren't allowed to talk about it exactly. See, he sent me this prank e-mail. I don't remember what it said exactly, but I'm pretty sure it was creepy and threatening. I was positive it was him and I wanted to get revenge. I wrote a threatening e-mail back. Innocent fun, right?
Wrong. Taylor failed to tell me how overly protective his mom was. She read my e-mail, freaked out and called the cops. They came to his house and asked who wrote him the message. He wouldn't tell them and got in trouble.
He was pissed at me, which I still think is unfair.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Day 36 - Bobby
Megan's cool boyfriend I mentioned in the last post? That's Bobby. Bobby was freakin' hilarious and had adorable dimples. He and Megan were like "the" couple in my eyes. Bobby and I never fell into an easy friendship. It was clear when we were in the same group, it was because of Megan, and that was okay.
Megan and I would get to school sort of early and head to the band hall where most of our friends hung out before class. Megan sat around with Bobby, his friends, Matt, Doughty and Justin, and her friend Renee. Some mornings I'd sit with them and they were always laughing and goofing around. It was fun; they were fun.
After a several weeks, it was suggested in a teasing way that I should be careful who I hung out with, because some people just weren't cool. They were referring to Justin's crowd and it annoyed me. I stood up for them in a calculated way. I wanted to be friends with everybody (at least everybody who was fun and nice to me) so I didn't make waves.
Sometimes, I wish I had made waves.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Day 34 - Tram
Tram and I became "best friends forever" really quickly. She played french horn and we each had English as the last class of the day. She was constantly laughing and spazzing out and was generally really entertaining. She had a lot of catch phrases and nicknames and we had an enormous amount of inside jokes. She was a social butterfly, but always claimed I was the popular one (so not true, by the way).
I used to get on AIM when I was in middle school a couple times a week, but when I moved to Texas I was almost constantly online. I say this because Tram was also almost always online too. We would hang out at each other's house, or the mall, or see a movie or something at least once a week and would be chatting online the rest of the time. We went to San Antonio twice, no three times: once with my parents, once with her parents and once on a band trip.
The trip with her parents was really interesting for me. I haven't mention it yet, but Tram is Vietnamese and her parents are first generation Americans. She spoke Vietnamese before she spoke English which I always thought was cool. Her parents were really strict with her, but not so much with her older brother, and they weren't around a lot. So, a trip to San Antonio with them was exciting to me. I learned an important loyalty lesson that weekend which every other teenager must know inherently: if your friend thinks her parents are lame, then you must treat them accordingly. It was hard, because Tram's dad wanted to go to these haunted railroad tracks. How cool is that?
Apparently, not cool at all. I didn't know. I wasn't good at being rude to other people's parents. Mine? Sure, when it seemed necessary, but my friends' parents? I lacked the gene.
Tram and I did a lot together those four years. We went through braces, crushes and first dates, mean people, becoming staff and officers of the band and getting our letter jackets as sophomores. We grew apart pretty naturally. She did student council (see? popular) and I did computer science and math competitions. We stopped being in the same level of band and the same classes.
Tram also did some things which I never really investigated fully because I didn't consider it worth the trouble, but angered me nevertheless. Tram hung out with guys, but she was a girl's girl. She talked behind people's backs, spread rumors, and occassionaly manipulated people. I don't want to infer that she was a mean girl, or that the majority of girls don't do this. I'm also not claiming complete innocence; that would be a lie. It's possible she was harboring some resentment towards me. I'll admit when I was in a relationship, I neglected my friends. It's totally valid to be mad at me for it.
So much time has passed that I don't want to hash out old, silly problems, I even feel guilty for vaguely mentioning them. But I was honestly shocked each and every time Tram did something to make me feel angry and betrayed. In some ways, my friendship with Tram also taught me how some friends have to be kept at an arm's length for self-sufficiency.
I used to get on AIM when I was in middle school a couple times a week, but when I moved to Texas I was almost constantly online. I say this because Tram was also almost always online too. We would hang out at each other's house, or the mall, or see a movie or something at least once a week and would be chatting online the rest of the time. We went to San Antonio twice, no three times: once with my parents, once with her parents and once on a band trip.
The trip with her parents was really interesting for me. I haven't mention it yet, but Tram is Vietnamese and her parents are first generation Americans. She spoke Vietnamese before she spoke English which I always thought was cool. Her parents were really strict with her, but not so much with her older brother, and they weren't around a lot. So, a trip to San Antonio with them was exciting to me. I learned an important loyalty lesson that weekend which every other teenager must know inherently: if your friend thinks her parents are lame, then you must treat them accordingly. It was hard, because Tram's dad wanted to go to these haunted railroad tracks. How cool is that?
Apparently, not cool at all. I didn't know. I wasn't good at being rude to other people's parents. Mine? Sure, when it seemed necessary, but my friends' parents? I lacked the gene.
Tram and I did a lot together those four years. We went through braces, crushes and first dates, mean people, becoming staff and officers of the band and getting our letter jackets as sophomores. We grew apart pretty naturally. She did student council (see? popular) and I did computer science and math competitions. We stopped being in the same level of band and the same classes.
Tram also did some things which I never really investigated fully because I didn't consider it worth the trouble, but angered me nevertheless. Tram hung out with guys, but she was a girl's girl. She talked behind people's backs, spread rumors, and occassionaly manipulated people. I don't want to infer that she was a mean girl, or that the majority of girls don't do this. I'm also not claiming complete innocence; that would be a lie. It's possible she was harboring some resentment towards me. I'll admit when I was in a relationship, I neglected my friends. It's totally valid to be mad at me for it.
So much time has passed that I don't want to hash out old, silly problems, I even feel guilty for vaguely mentioning them. But I was honestly shocked each and every time Tram did something to make me feel angry and betrayed. In some ways, my friendship with Tram also taught me how some friends have to be kept at an arm's length for self-sufficiency.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Day 33 - Megan V
My dad called her 'Mustang Megan'. She drove a mustang and her name was Megan; yes, my dad is clever. Megan drove me home from band a lot and eventually offered to drive me to school in the mornings. After a couple weeks riding the awful bus that took five times longer than driving, I was beyond excited to get a ride. It wasn't just any ride either. As I said, Megan drove a mustang called 'el diablo azul'. And she was seriously involved with one of the coolest guys in band. She also was fun.
So fun. She was a bit of a morning person and usually sang along with the radio or CD on the way to school. She always threw out her arm for the "soccer mom seat belt" when stopping too fast. She also ate while driving. Most people choose easy snack-like breakfasts for commuting. Megan chose cereal. The route to school was this exciting, winding, narrow road with deep ditches on each side. Megan would calmly spoon cereal into her mouth while zooming around the curves. Mornings with a heavy fog or when she borrowed her mom's standard car were the most invigorating.
Once, on the same road, we came upon a flipped car lying in the ditch. Megan immediately stopped. Luckily someone else also just stopped and we pulled over to ask them if they knew anything about the car. Turns out it had just flipped, the girl was out and fine and a tow truck and paramedic were both on their way. Megan didn't have to that morning, but I had no doubt she had it in her to save someones life. Megan was a strong woman, not afraid to have fun in every way possible, but still very responsible.
So fun. She was a bit of a morning person and usually sang along with the radio or CD on the way to school. She always threw out her arm for the "soccer mom seat belt" when stopping too fast. She also ate while driving. Most people choose easy snack-like breakfasts for commuting. Megan chose cereal. The route to school was this exciting, winding, narrow road with deep ditches on each side. Megan would calmly spoon cereal into her mouth while zooming around the curves. Mornings with a heavy fog or when she borrowed her mom's standard car were the most invigorating.
Once, on the same road, we came upon a flipped car lying in the ditch. Megan immediately stopped. Luckily someone else also just stopped and we pulled over to ask them if they knew anything about the car. Turns out it had just flipped, the girl was out and fine and a tow truck and paramedic were both on their way. Megan didn't have to that morning, but I had no doubt she had it in her to save someones life. Megan was a strong woman, not afraid to have fun in every way possible, but still very responsible.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Day 32 - Justin P
There was a huge amount of people in band who reached out to me. I felt so welcomed. Justin
really went above and beyond. He was kind of the leader of his friends and he introduced me to them. When the leader introduces you, the others give you the benefit of the doubt. So, I had this instant group of friends. They were so different from anyone I had hung out with before. A majority of these kids were into at least one of the following: Astrology, Wicca, D & D, anime, various forms of martial arts, swords, back massages, and TV shows and movies I had never seen. I do think I got in with them partially because I knew: The Princess Bride, Legend, Mystery Science Theatre 3000, some off-color nerdy jokes (one of which I accidentally left on my parent's answering machine) and I didn't judge them.
During that first semester I developed quite a crush on Justin. (What can I say? I'm a bit boy-crazy.) Justin was unbelievably sweet and funny, not to mention he drove, gave great back rubs and should I reiterate he was the leader? I wanted to be the Buttercup to his Westley. Aside from one movie night at his house when we shared a lazy-boy reclining chair during a movie which I can't remember because I was too excited to be cuddling with Justin, we were not meant to be.
Even once I fell out with his crowd, Justin remained a good friend. After he graduated, I heard he had a wonderful Renaissance themed wedding with this sweet girl he started dating when I was a sophomore. They're still together, living in Texas and it makes me happy to know Justin found his Buttercup.
really went above and beyond. He was kind of the leader of his friends and he introduced me to them. When the leader introduces you, the others give you the benefit of the doubt. So, I had this instant group of friends. They were so different from anyone I had hung out with before. A majority of these kids were into at least one of the following: Astrology, Wicca, D & D, anime, various forms of martial arts, swords, back massages, and TV shows and movies I had never seen. I do think I got in with them partially because I knew: The Princess Bride, Legend, Mystery Science Theatre 3000, some off-color nerdy jokes (one of which I accidentally left on my parent's answering machine) and I didn't judge them.
During that first semester I developed quite a crush on Justin. (What can I say? I'm a bit boy-crazy.) Justin was unbelievably sweet and funny, not to mention he drove, gave great back rubs and should I reiterate he was the leader? I wanted to be the Buttercup to his Westley. Aside from one movie night at his house when we shared a lazy-boy reclining chair during a movie which I can't remember because I was too excited to be cuddling with Justin, we were not meant to be.
Even once I fell out with his crowd, Justin remained a good friend. After he graduated, I heard he had a wonderful Renaissance themed wedding with this sweet girl he started dating when I was a sophomore. They're still together, living in Texas and it makes me happy to know Justin found his Buttercup.
Day 31 - Kris
Ms. Kim hired Kris to teach intermediate and advanced tap. Kris was a great teacher.
She was in her early twenties, had a third-degree black belt and her fiancee had a second-degree black belt. She also happened to be a phenomenal tap dancer. There were five of us in her advanced II tap class, we were all in middle school, but I was the youngest. The beginning of every class we'd stretch and talk about the past week and listen to whatever new record Kris had found or rediscovered. She would usually let us have a say in what song we would work on next. It was a really laid-back, but goal-oriented class.
Once, she took us to see a performance of 'Tap Dogs'. They were so inspiring and funny. It's rare to see tap dancing these days, especially when you're 12. It was the perfect thing to see five grown men doing it on a stage in front of thousands.
After that, my class went on to compete in a few things. We got third once. It was scary really. Kris was there through all of it. Encouraging us, listening to our stories and suggestions, laughing with us, but not taking any excuses for us not learning something.
She was in her early twenties, had a third-degree black belt and her fiancee had a second-degree black belt. She also happened to be a phenomenal tap dancer. There were five of us in her advanced II tap class, we were all in middle school, but I was the youngest. The beginning of every class we'd stretch and talk about the past week and listen to whatever new record Kris had found or rediscovered. She would usually let us have a say in what song we would work on next. It was a really laid-back, but goal-oriented class.
Once, she took us to see a performance of 'Tap Dogs'. They were so inspiring and funny. It's rare to see tap dancing these days, especially when you're 12. It was the perfect thing to see five grown men doing it on a stage in front of thousands.
After that, my class went on to compete in a few things. We got third once. It was scary really. Kris was there through all of it. Encouraging us, listening to our stories and suggestions, laughing with us, but not taking any excuses for us not learning something.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Day 30 - Ms. Kim
As I was watching a Michael Clark dance performance this evening I realized I forgot to write about Ms. Kim. Ms Kim was my all-purpose dance teacher. She taught me ballet, tap and briefly jazz (I was bad at jazz).
Ms. Kim also gave me my very first job outside of babysitting. When I was 10 or so she asked me to be her assistant for the youngest class. I was in charge of walking 15 four year-olds from the daycare across the street to the dance studio every Wednesday afternoon. Then, I would help teach ballet. It was so fun. I got paid 35 dollars a week.
It was short-lived. A few of the parents were concerned that a girl my age was crossing the street with their small kids. Ms Kim seemed genuinely apologetic when she fired me.
I spent an average of two nights a week for seven years at Ms. Kim's Dance Academy and I loved it. Until I stupidly decided it as uncool and quit (which Ms. Kim was wisely against).
Ms. Kim also gave me my very first job outside of babysitting. When I was 10 or so she asked me to be her assistant for the youngest class. I was in charge of walking 15 four year-olds from the daycare across the street to the dance studio every Wednesday afternoon. Then, I would help teach ballet. It was so fun. I got paid 35 dollars a week.
It was short-lived. A few of the parents were concerned that a girl my age was crossing the street with their small kids. Ms Kim seemed genuinely apologetic when she fired me.
I spent an average of two nights a week for seven years at Ms. Kim's Dance Academy and I loved it. Until I stupidly decided it as uncool and quit (which Ms. Kim was wisely against).
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Day 29 - Valerie C
Valerie was the head of the sax section and therefore, my leader. She was a perfect person to have as a role model. She was really smart and funny and knew how to be in control and flirt. She also dated Dave Peterson, who was like, one of the hottest guys in band and a drummer. Of course I looked up to Valerie.
She gave me my first nickname: Amy Jo. Supposedly, I looked like a girl who graduated the year before with that name. My first year in band that was my name. I didn't really fight it, it was kind of liberating. As the years went by, it became a joke to tell freshmen that was my name. (It doesn't sound funny now.) It also was a pretty handy way to see who was actually my friend. By the time I graduated, there were still people who thought my real name was Amy Jo.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Day 28 - Guidance Counselor
(I'm stretching a bit here, because I don't remember this woman's name.)
When Mom took me to Cy-Creek High School to enroll a few weeks before school started. We met with a guidance counselor to set up my class schedule and four-year plan. She was looking over my transcripts from middle school and noticed I was in band. With barely a word to me, she picked up her phone. Before I could fully realize who she was talking to, she was hanging up and telling me I could head down to the band hall once we were done. The band director thought it would be fine for me to start late. Wasn't I lucky?
What!?! I wanted to yell at her, "I don't want to be in band!" I could feel my throat constricting. I didn't want to be a band nerd in high school, no way! And that's what I told my mom while we walked towards the band hall. She convinced me that we could just talk to the directors and if I didn't want to, I could tell them so or quit later. Stupid voice of reason.
Of course, the directors were nice and the upper class men who were there to help out over the summer were friendly and seemed cool.
Ugh. I joined band. And I loved it. It shaped my high school experience more than most other paths I went down in those four years. I wouldn't have been a band nerd if it hadn't been for the assumption and quick phone skills of that guidance counselor.
Day 27 - Aunt Susan
So, in case you haven't read the previous posts closely, or at all; I'd like to make one point clear: I was in denial about moving to Houston. It hit me once everything was unpacked and organized and I had two empty months before school started. That first month is really a blur in my memory. I spent a lot of time online or watching TV until the early morning and then I napped almost all day.
My parents saw I needed to escape and that our family vacation wasn't coming soon enough. They flew me up to Massachusetts a week early to stay with my dad's sister Susan. That summer I learned how valuable family is.
Susan, her husband and three kids were there for me when I needed family like never before. It didn't take much, they didn't have extravagant plans for me, in fact, they were busy with their own lives. They did all the little things that show you care about someone. The change of scenery and some loving family support was sufficient to knock me out of my funk.
My parents saw I needed to escape and that our family vacation wasn't coming soon enough. They flew me up to Massachusetts a week early to stay with my dad's sister Susan. That summer I learned how valuable family is.
Susan, her husband and three kids were there for me when I needed family like never before. It didn't take much, they didn't have extravagant plans for me, in fact, they were busy with their own lives. They did all the little things that show you care about someone. The change of scenery and some loving family support was sufficient to knock me out of my funk.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Day 26 - My brother Matt
Matt is four years older than me. My bus drivers and teachers always knew my last name the first day of school; it wasn't with fond memories either. Matt did (and still does) outrageous things that become standard stories among our family and friends. When Matt started high school he had the normal growth spurt that suddenly made him tall, dark, handsome and as an added bonus to most girls: dangerous. My friends always gushed over how cute he was. 'My So-Called Life' was popular around the same time and Matt resembled Jordan Catalano. With the exception of watching 'Billy Madison' and 'Dust Till Dawn' practically non-stop one summer, we grew apart those years he became cool.
He graduated from high school the year my dad was transferred to Houston. He was going to University of Colorado in the Fall, so he wasn't technically moving with us, but he did drive down and stay with us that summer. I finally felt like Matt and I were bonding as grown-up siblings on that drive down South. For the majority of the trip, my parents drove one car, Matt drove the other and I rode shot-gun. We joked and argued and I felt like he was really listening to me.
The biggest impact Matt has had on my life thus far, was to steer me away from making bad choices when experimenting with drugs. We had a long talk one night when he was living in Houston for a semester. Essentially, I promised not to do anything stupid. It was the perfect out anytime someone offered me something.
"No thanks, I promised my brother."
Monday, June 2, 2008
Day 25 - Christie Hofmockel
Christie is hard to blog about; in fact, I've been putting it off. To fully express how Christie has impacted my life, I would be sitting in front of my laptop for weeks or more. I grew up with Christie. I learned an enormous amount from her and her family and just being a part of such a close friendship.
Christie and I laughed, cried, and fought; she was the closest thing I had to a sister. My brothers used to pick on me and I would take out my frustration with being smaller out on Christie. I would bully her something terrible, not to mention the betrayal and jealousies I've described in previous posts. I'm beyond lucky she stuck around with me through the years.
Christie was there through lazy summer days, swimming, softball, golf lessons, tennis lessons, mean teachers, fun teachers, weekly sleep-overs, Oregon trail and number munchers, new friends, mean friends, boys, family problems, adolescence, shaving for the first time, training bras, "feminine products", sex ed, finding playboys hidden away, pets dying, meeting extended family members... basically everything.
Christie meant so much to me, I couldn't bring myself to say goodbye when I moved to Houston. She went on vacation a week before I moved, so we agreed to say goodbye the morning her family left town. That day, my brothers were gone and my parents were at work, so I was home alone. When Christie's parents' van drove up, I froze in my room looking over the front porch. She rang the doorbell and called my name, but I couldn't move from the spot. Even now, thinking about it, I get choked up.
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