Happy New (school) Year!

Hello, New World! I come to you with Day 1 of the 2014-2015 school year under my belt, and with a fresh and positive outlook!!

Last year was a tough year- it was essentially the third grade level I'd taught in three years, and you know me- creature of habit! I felt down, angry, and almost burnt out at times. Not a happy Sciato! So, not to say that there won't be challenges this year, because there always will be, but I've decided to change my perspective. It's the one thing I can always control! ;)

So. I just want to take a quick minute to share my New School Year Resolutions with you, and you need to hold me accountable. :)

1. Stay focused, organized, and prepared. Heffe has taught me this one! We lose so much time and energy while focused on things that don't matter- I'm going to try to think hard and analyze the situation or task at hand before I act, so that I'm maximizing my productivity and ultimately, my sanity. Being "prepared" can and will sometimes just mean to be prepared to be flexible, and to embrace the chaos. :)

2. Take brain breaks! We need them just as much as our students!!! My hurdle- taking 30 minutes to leave work in the classroom, and eat my lunch in peace. 

3. Realize MY time is valuable, too. This is going to be the HARDEST for me. It means saying no, or asking to schedule time to discuss fillintheblank instead of me having to stop what I'm doing to discuss it, or simply asking for help. My time (aka, my personal, outside of school time that I would normally take up to recover from said interruptions, as completely necessary as those interruptions usually are..time is never on the side of a teacher..) MY time is valuable, too. 

4. Let it gooooooo.... Yes, I'm taking a lesson from Frozen. I'm going to try to take more things in stride, I'm going to try to not get frustrated by things I can't control, and if all else fails, I'll piss off my hallway-mates and actually sing, "Let it go!" :)

5. I'm going to be happy. There. I said it. I became a teacher for so many reasons... And not one of them has to do with workplace social politics or standardized tests. One of the top reasons I became a teacher is because I love being around children. They are so completely naive to most of the nonesense that is going on around them. They say the FUNNIEST things- even when they are tying to be serious. They make me laugh, cry, and FEEL. They make me remember what kind of person I want to be, and at the end of the day, I really do still think I can make an impact on their lives, even for just one minute of one hour of one day.

Hold me accountable, New World. It's all downhill from here. :)

Until next time, 

This is me, bein me. 

Cheers. :)

WHO AM I???

New World, I come to you in a glass case of emotion. 

Heffe and I have been enjoying MARRIED LIFE for the past 27 days. (Wedding post will happen, be patient people ;)) We enjoyed a fabulous and extravagant honeymoon together, and are now trying to settle back into real life. 

Real. Life. What is that? 

The life of a teacher comes with certain perks that I am ALL about. #1 is and will always be summer break. I spent the better half of summer wedding planning and organizing final details of our big day... after about 10am when I finally finished my 3rd cup of coffee and decided I should be a productive citizen. This is the first summer since I can remember (literally... maybe since I was 15) that I haven't worked or tutored and I decided to soak up every freaking minute. Starting your day at the crack of 8:30 with a balanced, unrushed breakfast, and coffee in an actual coffee mug (not a travel mug and not in tow on the way to an 8:20 meeting) can really sway one's perspective. I was rested, uber productive, and before I knew it, I had multi-tasked my way into wedding planning mayhem/bliss. 

Now that The Big Day is over, and I am getting my classroom ready, and I am tutoring, and I am not watching Sex and The City/Kardashians/The Hills mega marathons every day... ugh. I have really felt like I'm too old for this. Especially since the past 4 weeks have been a junk food/drinking/no exercise BINGE and my body is NOT bouncing back the way it used to. Double Ugh.

The worst part about this time of year for a teacher is also the best part. I LOVE catching up with all my coworkers I haven't seen in the past 2 months. I LOVE hearing what they and their families did over summer. But. Unfortunately, the nature of the beast is that we have a very limited amount of time to get our acts together, and oftentimes the conversation is rushed or limited. But, there has been a PLETHORA of  questions about the Wedding, and "it was a good day" juuuust doesn't do it justice.

The most frequent questions have to be, "How does it feel to be married?" or "How are you today, MRS. K?" 

I've been waiting to marry Heffe for far too than long I'd like to admit, and nothing in the world feels better than signing my name, MY name... with his last name. 

However.

Usually, if I'm asked, "How are you today, MRS. K?", all I can muster is a cheesy smile, blushed cheeks, and a "GREAT!!!!", which is followed closely by, "How does it feel to be called that?" or "How does it feel to be someone's wife?" LOADED questions for an already emotionally charged Sciato. I usually respond with social appropriateness, however, and repeat my cheesy, blushed, "GREAT!"

In reality, I'm thinking to myself, "I am SO glad Heffe and I waited until we did to get married." 

For us traditional gals, there is a LOT of changes we have to go through before we can sit back, sip our wine, and soak up wedded bliss. I've had my fair share of whimsical giggles and ear-to-ear, scrunchy nose smiles... in fact, I can't even control when they happen. But, you know me, New World, and I'm probably making this too big of a deal, but those changes we have to go through ARE a big deal to me. I'm not even close to being finished, but I've already spent hours changing my social security card, my drivers license, my bank and credit card accounts, my school files, my professional everything, and still have countless other things to change. I even created a new email account, but cannot bring myself to use it yet. That + new school year + post-wedding blues + thiscrazybigbirthdayeveryoneseemstokeepbringingtomyattention... Sciato is feeling slightly overwhelmed. (What's new.)

So yes. I'm so glad Heffe and I waited until we did to get married. As my dad always tells me (and I mean always, he knows how often I need to hear it!), change is the only constant in life. Heffe and I have been through the emotional and physical rollercoaster that was our early 20s. We've learned how to survive both independently and co-dependently. We know ourselves pretty well, and are learning more about each other every day. When it really comes down to it, I think we've got a pretty solid foundation for our life together. We may not know all the secrets to making a lifelong marriage work, and of course we'll have rough patches, but underneath it all, I know we share the same views and values and beliefs, and know that we both see the same things as important parts of our life that we have now and that we want to have in the future. Together. I've been wanting to get married since I was 5. But there are a few tricks 29-year-old Sciato brings to the table. My greatest trick was getting Heffe to fall in love with me, and then to tell me he wants to be with me forever, and THEN to ask me (on his own and unprompted!) to be his wife. 

SO. 

WHO AM I???

I am still the same old Sciato. Always will be. 

I'll just call me ksciato. Yes. I just pronounced that kuh-sciato. :) 

Until next time, New World.

This is me.

Bein ME.

Cheers. :) 

My house is throwing a temper tantrum.

Hello, New World!

I come to you this morning with a fresh cup of Seattle's REAL best coffee- thanks for the Valhalla, Tino!!!- and a brain full of... Theories. 

So Heffe and I have been doing somewedding  planning lately, not sure if you knew that. ;) We only have 11 days to go, and anyone who has been through wedding planning can vouch for us when we say our to do list, while no "big" tasks are looming anymore, looks like a 5 year old's scribbles. Cross one thing off, but add 2 more. We'll get there! This is not what my rant is about. 

This rant is about my house and it's pieces crying out to us like a petulant child. 

Apparently, we're not giving enough attention to the 703, what with us cleaning it only once a week and stopping to enjoy it's coziness maybe once every other week. We have dedicated our dining room to wedding things instead of restoring it to it's supper club glory. We've been plugging in new devices and yelling at it's thick walls for blocking netflix. We've left streaks of sample paint colors on its walls, which have served more as conversational art pieces than project kick starters. 

703 got a LOT of much deserved attention from Heffe's mama over the weekend, but I'm pretty sure it's now in full revolt since our attention has not been on finishing the tasks she began for us... It's been on other things... Like wedding planning. 

Here's the evidence. 

1. Our washer broke 2 weeks ago on the eve of our departure for a weekend trip. Our washer said, "You've used me like you always use me... I can't take this love me and leave me. I'll show you." And so, it smoked and smoked and made our kitchen smell bad, and we ultimately had to buy a new washer. 

2. A yellowish line of death has appeared on our kitchen ceiling. Right above it is our master bath's shower stall of doom. We knew it needed serious TLC when we moved in. It's the eyesore of the master bedroom. We thought it was purely asthetically challenged, though. And we continued to use it. Wrong-o!!! So, it said, "I can tell these amateurs have no clue how I work, so I'll make the problem big enough that they have to call in a professional who will know exactly how to treat me." We had to file a claim with our home warranty company (thank God it hadn't expired and we renew in 11 days), but found out the secondary damage to floorboards and walls and ceilings won't be covered. Well played, shower stall. Well played. 

3. Our lawn mower is producing a horrific amount of smoke and burning oil. It said, "This girl is using me for a work out, and bragging to her family about how fast she can mow the entire yard. I am getting tired of her taking all the glory. And by the way, these fools don't even know how to take care of me! Where's my cool drink of water to flush out my blade and underparts after we've sped through the lawn at the speed of light?" (who knew you had to clean a lawn mower, and are supposed to hook up your hose to it when it is running!? Anyone else see that as counterintuitive!!?) I tried to channel my inner mechanic, and Heffe and I have plans to work on it for the third night in a row, but the reality of the matter is, I might as well call a service company and turn out my pockets. 

House-3, Janissa-broke. 

So to all you impending visitors coming soon for wedding festivities... Please rejoice in the glory of 703... And I guess give it a hug. Apparently, it needs it. 

Until next time, I'll be trying to smooth things over in my house-homeowner relationship...

I need a cocktail, New World. 

Cheers. ;)

Danger Zone- Waiting at Verizon.

Hello, New World!

Heffe and I are sitting here waiting for forever at Verizon. It's one of my least favorite tasks. It's down there with the Post Office and the BMV- I know the good or service I want to obtain, but no body seems to be able to translate my need into their language/repertoire of capabilities. Let me clarify. MY local Verizon store is terrible. I know there are plenty of successful stores with super competent and friendly people... But that's just not my store. 

In situations like these, I take on a not so pleasant persona. Since we were waiting for what started out as 25-30 minutes but ended up being the better part of 60 minutes, I chose to take my frustrations out on Pinterest rather than on Heffe. 

Needless to say, New World... Pinterest did NOT disappoint. Hop on, take a ride with me on my waiting line emotional roller coaster...

Side note before I start: I do not even ALLOW myself to look at the wedding section anymore. Too close to go-time, and I don't have a million elves working in my basement on a perfectly worded and witty quote for a framed sign that means, "Seating Chart" made out of vintage, chalkboard-painted, crystal-encrusted, burlap mason jars.

I digress. 

I literally laughed out loud at this one. 

Because organization is a priority... In the summer months ;)

Why didn't I think of that!?

#amyfialahendersonoriginalpin

Outdoor pillows are also a priority for Janissa... Could I make these? Probably if I wasn't spending all my time at Verizon. 

Above pillows would look so good here! Less grass for us to mow, too!

Yes, organization is key... In the summer months ;)

In all senses, the antithesis of an English Trifle. Pun intended. "First, there's a layer of jam, then a layer of lady fingers, which I made from scratch, then beef sautéed with peas and onions, more lady fingers, and I top it all off with some whipped cream!" I'll just stick with boiling my cup of salt. 

This is more my style. Nomnomnomnom

This pin was found about 10 minutes before it was our turn. Did I have time to run to Starbucks!? Only in my wildest dreams. 

This was found about 3 seconds before it was our turn/I was ready to flip the phone case display and roar like a cave woman. 

How can I get this in my belly RIGHT NOW to use my gas to teach Verizon to never make me wait this long. :) 

21 DAYS TIL DISNEY!!!!

And I leave you, New World, with the slap happiest...

#imightusethisatschool #thanksdaddy

Until next time, Verizon... 

New World, don't worry, you won't have to look for me on the news for holding up my local Verizon store. Janissa made it out safe and sound... And had to be let out of the caged doors since they had closed the store in the time it took to get them to get our things in order. 

Aaaaaah.

Until next time, 

This is me, drinking wine, rewarding myself for a conquering a rough evening, bein me. 

Cheers. :) 

Confessions of a Bride: #ohwaitthatsme

Hello, New World!

The past 2 weekends were an OVERWHELMING reminder of how many amazing people I have in my life.

Not to get on a soap box (but isn't that what this blog is for?!)... but if there's one thing I've learned in my later 20's (especially during wedding planning) that I'd like to go back in time and share with early-20's Sciato.. it's to cut out negativity. That means bad habits, negative people, not putting myself in potentially emotionally harmful or ridiculous situations... Cut out the negativity. While I've figuratively cleansed my aura... I cannot stress enough how blessed I am to have the most supportive, loving, and absolutely inspiring people in my life, and I love you all so much more than you could ever understand. :)

 Last weekend, my sisters-in-law Amanda and Chris hosted a Bridal Shower for me in Cincy with the Sciato/Cappa families and Cincy friends. And this weekend, my bridesmaids and future-but-might-as-well-be-officially-sisters-in-law hosted a Bridal Shower for me in C-bus with the Kent/Radeff families and C-bus friends... followed by the best, most fun, most memorable night I've had... EVER.... my Bachelorette Party. :) 

Instead of chronicle the details of the past 2 weekends, I'd rather give you a play-by-play of my inner monologue. We'll start with the before thoughts, and will progress to during wonderings, and after shocks.

Buckle up, New World.

Who will be here?
Will it be awkward since I might not have seen these people in a while and I have to be fair and give equal time to all my guests?
Will I be overdressed?
Will I be under-dressed?
Will my heels give me blisters that I'll have to smile through at the end of today?
Why am I already sweating?
Does this jewelry match?
Can you see through my dress?

How's my hair?

Does my sweat leave lines through my make up?

What did we even register for?

Oh my gosh, did I forget to invite anyone?!

Holy moley, are all these gifts going to fit in my car?

Is it greedy that I just asked that?

What time is it?

Where's the champagne?

Did I lose my brain and screw up the date?

Do I smell? I've been sweating for an hour.

Will my hair look good in pics or will I look like an electrocution incident?

Who will judge me if I have a 3rd cocktail?

Why is everyone staring at me?

Why do you want to see what I got? You all saw our registry. It's probs something off of that or something super sentimental that I should probably only open at home so I can cry to myself at how lucky we are.

Maybe I'm sweating from anxiety of all these staring faces... do I need to ask my doc for xanax for our wedding?!

Can I have some cheetos?

Where's Heffe?

Is the AC broken up in here?! Why is no one else sweating?? 

Oh my gosh, people are so generous!!

Where should I put all my new gadgets? 

Am I patient and skilled enough to use my new gadgets without burning down our house?

Seriously, should I get my arm pits botoxed? I will never again judge my brothers for keeping a sweat hanky handy.

I need to fart.

I need more food.... like a cheeseburger.

I really want to break these bows... but I know how much baby talk there will be on July 13 (the day AFTER our wedding)... one step at a time, crazy people!

I want to take all these balloons and carry them around in my car forever. 

I want to go shopping at the pink and gray store so I can buy all these decorations for our house, and Heffe will love it.

Oh my gosh, everyone knows how much we love pizza products and wine. I'm not even ashamed!

Is it socially appropriate to get drunk at your own bridal shower?

Seriously, where's Heffe? Him needs to share these moments with me!

Oh my gosh, seriously, people, you are too kind and thoughtful. We aren't that great! Well, Heffe is ;)

I will cry about this later- such sweet gifts.

My family is so amazing.

I am so thankful that all these people are here with me! It's a long day of being social when it's a perfectly good pool/day drinking day!

My in-laws are better than your in-laws. Hands. Down.

I am the luckiest girl in the world.

Aww, Heffe loves me. :) Everyday. :)

We're getting married.

I am the bride!!

I'm going to have a husband in 35 days.

I'm going to be someone's wife in 35 days.

I get to spend forever with my other half. 

Awww, Heffe. :)

As we finish off this weekend with more wedding planning and probably a little booze... I don't think I could feel any happier or more loved... without exploding. :) 

Thank you, to all who were involved in the planning and celebrating...We are beyond blessed. :)

Until next time, New World.

Cheers to YOU. :)

2fer Tuesday

Hello New World!

It's been awhile. Let's talk. 

1fer: I got the NICEST email from a parent of a former student today. I won't lie, her son was one of my most challenging kiddos...ever..but my heart broke for him and my might-be-right-might-be-wrong way of trying to reach him. Everyday. Anyway, she told me, in underlined and bold fashion, that everything I set up for him last year helped him to grow and helped his team this year to better educate and develop him. She went on to say the countless hours, daily notes, emails, phone calls, positive behavior reinforcements, and awkward conversations regarding this special little guy changed his life for the better. Bottom line of her email- all the things I did on a daily basis were worth it. I needed to hear that. It was so reassuring and heartfelt. I sincerely hope that he is in my class next year, so I can continue him on his path to success! 

I mean, don't we all need to hear what we do day-in and day-out is worth it? I know I for SURE did. 

2fer: I have 3 days left of school for the year. What. The. Hell. How did that happen?! This year has been one of the hardest and seemingly never-ending... But now as it comes to a close, I find myself much like I have felt for the majority of this school year: literally, physically, emotionally, completely unprepared. Here are the top 5 things I have learned along the way:

1. To Do lists, regardless of how many things are crossed out, are necessary for an OCD, anxious, work-life-happy hour balancer.

2. There will always be a way out. Whether it be through the art of debate and persuasion and sticking up for what you know is right... or just through the ageless face of LeVar Burton, there is always a way out. 

3. No matter how much you time you spend planning or preparing or reviewing or assessing, someone will always end up pissing their pants and forgetting who they are for a half hour. 

4. On the flip side of #3, See 1fer above. My actions make a difference. 

5. With a full mug of coffee and a smiling attitude I can do anything. 

What have you learned along your way? What was the reassurance you needed to hear? 

Until next time, 

This is me, 

bein' Miss Casciato (professionally speaking, for the last 3 days ever)...!!!!!! EEEEEEEEE!

Cheers. :)

6+ on Sunday!

Hello, New World!

I come to you with a fun-filled weekend to share!

Mama and Papa Sciato came to visit this weekend. I don't know what we'd do without them!!!! They originally came to help us strip our deck so we can re-stain it, but that quickly turned into other tasks!!

1. While Heffe and Papa C. power-washed away the old stain on our deck, Mama C. helped me get a head start on wedding favors!!! Sorry, New World, no sneak peaks here ;)

2. Here is an actual close up of what Heffe and Papa C. were able to conquer:  

Clean and ready for fresh flowers!!!!

3. Mama C. helped me turn our inherited patio set from green/mismatched, into this:

Our neighbor even commented on it!!! Love that we could fool someone into thinking it's new with just a little spray paint!

4. The spray paint also came in handy for these once-sea-foam-green chairs...

So much better!! Aaah #cozyfrontporch #ilooksuperprettyafter10hoursofhouseprojects

5. Oh yeah, since we borrowed the power-washer, we could clean out our garage! SO gross from nasty Cbus winter!!

VAST improvement!!!

6. While I was spray painting my forearms into oblivion, Heffe was finishing up mulching our yard! 30 bags total = Heffe is a BEAST! 

Front...

Close up front:) pretty green and purple somethings;)

Side yard- side yard side note- Heffe CHOPPED down those 3 trees in the middle/background!!! Who is he?! Hidden talents galore!:)

7.! Papa C. helped us fix our grill (Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Kent!!!) and gave us some tips for installing the propane tank. Then, once we discovered we had created fire and did not explode our neighborhood, we were able to food prep and cook the dinner nomnoms as shown...

I'm hungry again!!!!

Summer is gonna be GOOD New World, it's gonna be good. :) 

Until next time, this is me, bein me. 

Enjoying fake summer for a few more weeks;)

Cheers :)