OK, this is a first on 30by30.com - a post from someone who isn't Charisse. Yes, this is a post from Todd. It is MY TURN folks...

First, I am gonna say something about 30by30. I LOVED IT! I know this was Charisse's adventure... but I was definitely along for the ride. And on the road, I learned so much. No, I am not talking about learning to fly fish or snow board with her. I learned so much about people. From Charisse making a list, setting goals and obtaining them. To learning how there are so many kind people in this world who really, really want to see friends and strangers succeed.

Now... a bit about 2007 from my point of view.

Career-wise, it was a great year. After years of jobs that were "OK", I am finally in a place that I love what I do, respect the people I work with/for, and genuinely like to get up in the morning to go to the office.

But... forget about the career, 2007 was also a fun year. Charisse just posted about our many travels - Napa, Colorado, Paris, London, Austin, etc... She forgot about the B-E-S-T trip. Our trip to Kansas. I know, you are asking yourself what is so great about a trip to Kansas? Well, we went to Kansas to watch my beloved Arizona Wildcats take on the Kansas Jayhawks. Forget the disappointment that the Cats lost in OT, the trip was great. I have always heard the the Phog was the best venue to watch a basketball game and it didn't disappoint. Being the sports geek that I am - it was a day of basketball nirvana.

One other thing Charisse neglected to mention in her post was the thrill we have had watching our nephew Michael (aka "Little E") grow up. I have been blessed by my sister Amy to have my niece Paige and nephew Aaron in Colorado. They are two of the coolest, funniest, smartest little kids in the world (no, I am not biased)... but the one thing I didn't get with them was watching them grow up on a weekly basis. The really cool thing about Little E is seeing him 2-3 times a month and watching the subtle changes in his personality. Plus, the FACT that he likes me more than Charisse is really, really cool (just kidding, he like us the same - wink, wink).

So... on to 2008... a year that is set up to be as wonderful as 2007 was...
- a new house
- Charisse starting the next phase of her career
- The Cowboys in the Super Bowl (fingers crossed)
- Hoping my work takes me to the Summer Olympics
- Misc weekend trips unknown places

Well, hopefully my lovely wife will allow me to post again... instead of just proofreading her stuff and helping her upload pictures. But until that time... adios.

TZS

Happy New Year from the Stein's


2007...WOW what a great year.
Sorry I haven't blogged in a while. So much has happened since my last post. Yes, I finally turned 30 and now well on my way to 31. In May I graduated from grad school at SMU. For the first time since I was five years old, I don't have any homework. I have a feeling one day I will go back for another degree. What can I say, I like school.

2007 was a big year for travel for the Stein's. Of course, in March was our trip to Paris/London for my birthday. In May Todd and I went to Napa for a wedding of two dear friends who I set up, Amy and Aaron. I am not completely responsible for their happiness...but I do enjoy taking credit. Two weeks later I was in California again this time without Todd for another wedding (sidebar: my friends Erin, Berta and I are no longer allowed to leave the state without Todd...we are trouble). Suzi and Josh's wedding in Santa Barbara was beautiful and SOOOOO fun.

The biggest shocker of 2007 happened on a random Friday in June. I decided that it was time for me to leave my job. Not only was leaving my job a shock to me, but everyone around me. I had been with the Foundation for eight years and it was time for me to go and try something new...the only catch I had no idea what that next step would take me. After three weeks of tears, my last day finally came. I had decided that the months of July and August (and maybe September) would be a break and time for me to figure out my next move. We spent Fourth of July at the lake with my "Graham Friends." I spent the rest of the month traveling and catching up with old friends. July turned into August while I was in Colorado fly fishing.

This Fall we made a huge decision...it was time to sell our house and move downtown. We are in the process of finding our place downtown and are about 99% sure we are going to build a three-story townhouse, but will know for sure this week. Todd and I thought this would be a good time to put the house on the market since I wasn't working full time. I am thrilled to say that Christmas Eve we got a great offer and will close on Jan. 21. The amazing thing about the offer was the timing. Todd and I were somewhere in West Texas when our realtor called with the news. We were on our way to Winter Park for our annual Christmas on the ski slope trip. Obviously, the offer led to an even more enjoyable trip.

My other big project this Fall was a charity event I chaired. After lots of work the event was a huge success and with it behind me I really started focusing on a new job in November.

The past two months has been dedicated to finding the next right gig for me. I have had several offers, but they just didn't feel right. I am getting close and think that in the next couple of weeks I will be working again.

I don't know if it was just the timing or if it has something to do with being 30...but I never thought I would have the confidence to jump off the cliff and give up my safety net the way I have the past six months.

So much of 2006 and 2007 I had a plan and knew exactly what I was doing. I had been in my job for several years, Todd and I were settled in our house, and I was on my adventure of completing my 30by30. 2008 is a complete mystery and I actually find comfort in that fact. This time next year we will be in a new house, I will have figured out what I was going to do with my life, and most importantly it will be the first year that I don't have a plan. And I have to say that this is the most excited I have been in a while.

Until next time-

Charisse

p.s. I will posting again on a regular basis.

A Visit Fit for a Queen

London was the one city I hadn’t been to that I really wanted to go and that is how it ended up on the list. I have been extremely lucky to have traveled quite a bit and it is truly one of my passions.

I had several friends and family members meeting me there to celebrate my birthday. Todd, Todd’s dad Barry, Stepmom Linda and I left Paris on Thursday and took the Eurotrain to London. As soon as I got to the hotel, I met up with my friend Berta. Berta and I have been friends for about six years. We are very similar in the fact that our bags are always packed. After dropping my bags at the hotel, Berta and I were off for an afternoon of shopping, first stop Harrod’s. At the same time, Todd met up with his friend John who also joined us. After hours of shopping, walking and exploring the city, it was time to meet up with the rest of the crew for a nice dinner.

Friday the rest of our group made their way to London. It was raining and cold that morning and as we made our way to Buckingham Palace for the "Changing of the Guards." It was really crowded and we couldn’t really see what was going on, but the Royal Army Band did play songs by James Blunt and Beatles, which was entertaining. Friday afternoon, we met up with my good friend, Kelly. Last summer, Kelly moved to DC with her husband and I miss her tons. It was so fun to have her with me for my birthday weekend.

Friday afternoon, as everyone else went for a rest, Kelly, Todd, Berta and I went on the search for the Courtauld Museum. The Courtauld Museum is the home of one of my favorite paintings, Bar at Folies Berges, by Manet. If you are ever in London this is a must see museum. It has a great collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art work. This was truly one of the highlights of the trip for me.

Another highlight for me was to have the Holman Family join in the celebration. Susan and Leon Holman’s daughter, Krissi, was one of the five people who made a difference in my life. Susan got our entire crew tickets to the Ceremony of the Keys at the London Tower. Thanks, Susan!

Saturday was a complete girl day for me. Linda, Berta, Kelly and I headed to Notting Hill for shopping. This was one of the most fun days, I have ever had in my life. We just spent the day laughing, shopping, eating and laughing some more. We left Berta at the train station, purely accidental of course. Luckily she found her way and wasn’t lost for very long. To have so many people that I love together, made me so incredibly happy.

There were two rules for dinner Saturday night: have fun and stay up until midnight. The entire crew had dinner together Saturday night to actually celebrate my birthday. We found this fun restaurant to celebrate. The evening consisted of me crying a lot. So many emotions were running through me that night. I was so grateful that I had ten of my favorite people with me in London. I also kept thinking about all the amazing experiences I had during the past year. Every time I would start to say something, the tears would just come out.
The goal of having fun and staying up until at least midnight was accomplished without any problems.

Sunday was another great day. I had scheduled a walking tour of all things Beatles through London. As you can see, we ended up at Abbey Road. I can’t think of a better way to spend my actual birthday.

Final two letters

I had two final things left on the list to complete. I had to deliver my final two letters to people who made a difference in my life. I knew from the beginning that Berta and Todd would be the final two. For the past couple of months, I lied to Todd about my list of people and had to hide the fact he was getting a letter.

The first letter I read in London was to Berta for being such a great friend. I can’t explain how or why we are friend. From the moment we met we clicked. We share a love of travel, laughter and celebrity gossip. Berta has taught me to laugh at myself. I am fully aware that one day Todd and I are going to have to take care of her. My only request is that she gets a great home somewhere exotic when she retires.

The final letter was for Todd. I ended up writing his letter about two hours before I gave it to him. I had tried for months and months to write his letter, but each time I would start crying or just couldn’t find the words. Todd has been so supportive of 30by30, but more importantly Todd has been supportive of me for the past nine years.

Hanging with Snoop and P. Diddy in Paris

Sorry it has been more than a week since my last post. Almost two weeks ago we packed our bags and headed to Paris/London for my birthday. Within an hour of getting to Paris I knew that this was going to be a great trip.

After dropping our bags off at the hotel it was time to go and see the sites. Our first stop was the Eiffel Tower. As we were walking up to the Eiffel Tower, Todd said, "look there is Snoop Dog." My response was, "no it isn't, that is P. Diddy." Well, it turns out both of us were correct, Snoop and Diddy were hanging out with their rather large bodyguards at the Eiffel Tower. What are the odds, we are in Paris less than an hour and we ran into the paparazzi and a couple of celebs. The best part of the story is that Snoop Dog was wearing a blue shower cap...see for yourself in the pictures.

The end of March isn't the prime weather time to visit Paris. It was really cold and wet the entire time we were there. The cold weather didn't stop us from enjoying the city and seeing as much as we could in our short visit.

During our visit we hired a private guide for the Louvre and D'Orsay. One of the best things I have done in the past year was to take two art history classes. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. My art history classes really paid off and made the visits to the two museums even more meaningful.

Todd's dad and stepmom met us in Paris and it was so fun to have them experience the city with us.

NBC Channel 5 News at 4...

...And on to 30 Rock???

http://www.nbc5i.com/firstatfour/index.html (click on the video titles "Woman Tackles 30 Goals Before 30th Birthday)

Also, check out Brian Curtis' blog on the story.

http://www.nbc5i.com/news/10372698/detail.html

Thanks Brian for all your support!

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day--Disco Style

The Spirit of 1977, was in full swing on Saturday at the Greenville Ave. St. Patrick's Day Parade. For those who don't know about the parade, it is the best day in Dallas. It is the one day a year when more than 75,000 Dallasites come together to celebrate all things Irish. I love the parade, but my husband loves it even more than me. For years we have been on the sidelines watching the parade go by from our tailgate in a CVS parking lot, and when I came up with this list, I realized that it was the perfect excuse to actually be the in parade.

This is a parade with few rules and anyone and everyone is encouraged to participate. Parade participants include people with their green-dyed dogs, college alumni groups, bars, groups of friends and bands.

A few weeks ago we started the planning of our float and sent the invites to family and friends to be a part of this special day. Since I was born in 1977 and this whole experience has been called 30by30, I decided that theme of our float should be the 1970's. Last Thursday night we had a float building party. It took most of us back to our days of being in fraternities and sororities, making posters and signs. It felt just like college again, eating pizza, working late and hanging out with friends. This glorious feeling lasted until the next morning when I had to get up and go to work.

Saturday morning finally came and 12 of my favorite people joined for the fun. With the float was decorated and the first Bloody Mary's of the day were mixed we were ready to Disco down Greenville Ave. I think my friend, Erin and my husband Todd won best dressed. Erin was channeling Diana Ross with her green dress with feathered sleeves. Todd was sporting a great wig, pants that were a bit too tight and rocking with his chest hair.

Highlights of the day:
1. 90,000 people cheering for a homemade float and some cheap beads.
2. My friends Joyce and Joe traveling 2 1/2 hours to be a part of the Spirit of 1977.
3. Seeing Todd and Sean shaking hands with the crowd and taking pictures. The ladies loved them!
4. Seeing Jill with her sunglasses and Casey in a jumpsuit older than her.
5. Having 12 incredibly fun people with me, who just wanted to have a good time!

Speical thanks to: Doug and Linda for providing the trailer! We couldn't have done it without you. I promise next year we will start earlier and have an even better float!

This will be my last post until after my birthday. With exactly one week left, I am getting really emotional. Today I finally figured out the emotion I feel is gratitude. I have so many things to be thankful for and so many wonderful people in my life. I can't pick out my favorite experience from the list or what was the most fun. It has all be fun and great, but the thing that means the most to me are all the people who have been supportive. My friends and family have lived through this with me and hopefully they have learned something or least had a good time.

Until next time,

Charisse

2 more down and 3 to go...

It has been a busy two weeks, I have learned to play chess and traveled to Austin work a day in the Texas State Senate.

Chess... I am not sure how I feel about the game. Maybe since I could play for years and would likely lose to some hot shot 8 year old.
My brother Guy was nice enough to take the
teach me how to play. After a quick lesson of all the pieces and how each one could move, it was time for me to play a real game. This game suits my brother. He is one of those people who is always 3-4 steps ahead of the Average Joe.

My brother kept talking strategy and how to get the other person in-check while I just was trying to remember which piece did what. For our first game, Guy took away five of his pieces. He wanted to give me some sort of an advantage. Well, it didn't help... he still beat me.

By the third game, I was getting the hang of it and actually making good solid moves. I have played a few times in the past week online, but I do believe learning to play golf was a lot easier.


Be a Texas Senator for a Day...
I love politics! I have had an interest in politics since I was a kid, so "Being a Senator for a Day" was one of the first things that went on my list. A good friend of mine from college went to work for a Texas Senator as Communications Director right after graduation and has been in it ever since. Jennifer and her office was nice enough to welcome me on Monday to see the behind the scenes of the Texas State Senate.

I started the by going through all the news clippings from the weekend, then quick check of emails, then off to an radio interview with the Senator, and special hearing on a bill that the Senator was a co-sponsor, all before lunch.

Right now the Texas Senate goes into session each afternoon. The one thing I did learn about working in politics is that there is a lot of hurry up and wait, just as you find on any photo shoot or movie set.

Jennifer and her entire office were so welcoming and made me feel a part of their team. I got to meet a lot of the Senators and the Lieutenant Governor. I will write more later of my day in the Senate.


Left on the list:
Today Show
London
St. Paddy's Day Parade


Until next time,

Charisse

Bright Lights, Thick Smoke and Loud, Loud Music

This weekend Todd and I traveled to Lubbock, TX to mark another task off the list. I was able to introduce Jack Ingram and The Beat Up Ford Band (http://www.jackingram.net/) on stage with my friend, Chris.

I have been a fan of Jack since he was playing small, hole-in-the-wall bars and now he is a #1 country music artist. Jack was nice enough to let me do an interview with him before the show and get some insights on what it is like to be a "rock star." Jack was so nice and gracious to answer all of my questions.

The thing that has stuck with me the most is when he was talking about capturing the room and bringing the audience into the experience. Each night is different and there are always unique elements that the band is up against. Jack said the best feeling, and what he strives for each night, is the accomplishment of having the audience engaged.

The main thing I wanted to know and the reason I had "introduce a band on stage" on my list was to know the energy from the crowd. Right before the show, Chris and I were standing off stage with the band and Jack started giving me pointers on what the audience likes to hear. I was already nervous and then Jack started giving me pointers. Finally, it was time for us to make our way up to the stage, the lights came on and the crowd went nuts.

Chris: "Please welcome the real father of Anna Nicole's baby." (crowd laughter and screaming)
Charisse: "Hello, Lubbock (per Jack's advice, always lead with the city). Big Machine Recording Artist, Jack Ingram and the Beat Up Ford Band." (more screaming)
That was it. After a day of being nervous it came down to less than 15 seconds.

After the show, I chatted with Jack again and told him that I think his goal of giving a great performance and having the audience fully engaged was accomplished. Watching the way he interacted with the crowd and the level of energy he gives to the show was truly remarkable. You could see the passion he has for performing and being an artist. Jack truly believes with a little bit of talent (his words not mine) and lots of hard work, you can really have anything in this world. If you have ever seen him perform or heard his music, you know he has more than a little bit of talent

Special Thanks to: Drew, Ashley, the Beat Up Ford Band and Jack Ingram. Also, thanks to Chris for showing us around Lubbock and for not making me go on stage by myself.

Until next time,
C

Lights, Camera, Karma Police

It is official, I am a movie star. Well, maybe not quite a movie star but I can say that I have been an extra in a movie. Karma Police is a movie being shot here in Dallas and a friend of mine, Ian Leson has a part and helped me to be an extra. The call time was at 8:45am in front of City Hall. I, along with the other extras were protesters and our job was to chant in the background.

I have been on several TV and movie sets but this is the first time when I was actually in the movie. The director John Venable was such a nice guy and completely laid back. The ultimate goal for John is to get his film into the Toronto Film Festival. The film would go under the category of "Ultra Low Budget." I wish them a ton of luck and I am sure since I was an extra it will make it in the festival.

Highlights of the day:
1. We started on time and actually ended early. This has never happened on any other set I have ever been on.
2. Craft service table...usually there is food for the actors and crew to snack on during the shoot. Since this is an "ultra low budget" feature film, craft services was Slim Jims, bottle water and a couple packages of powder donuts. I didn't even know powder donuts were still around.
3. Last but not least, the craft services table was the back of someones Honda.

Creativity On Overdrive

I am a creative person but not when it comes to art projects. I put learning a craft on my list, because I knew it would be something that one of my dearest friends - Berta - would want to do it with me. She is always has a new project. She can make beautiful books, cards, pillows, and now she is into jewelry. She loves doing all of that stuff and I have no interest. But, that is why we are friends we are as different as night and day.

Saturday, Berta and I took on a new artistic task and learned how to create stain glass. A few months ago I enlisted our friend, Don to be our teacher. Our lesson started around 9:30 and Don has several cartoons drawn out for me to choose from. After much deliberating I decided to go with the design that looks like an abstract 30. This was diffidently a team project and we all had input on what the final piece would look like.

My favorite part of the day was to be able to watch such a creative minds at work. Thank you, Don for being a part of my 30by30 and being such a good teacher.

Volunteer a week of Vacation Time

This has been a work in progress. Yes, I have volunteered five days of vacation time during the past year. Most of you know that I work for a not for profit. The only way we can do our jobs is because of volunteers who give of their talents and time. It was my turn to go to the other side and become the volunteer instead of the staff person.

Several months ago, I agreed to become one of two chairs for the 30th Chi Omega Christmas Market. The ironic thing is that my co-chair is also turning 30 in 2007. The market is in November each year and it raises money for six different organizations in Dallas. I am honored and thrilled to be on of the chairs and I look forward to a successful 2007 Market.

Coming to an end...

I have to confess, in Decemeber I almost gave up on my 30by30 goal. It was just getting too much and it didn't ever feel like it was going to end. I had to remind myself that I have come way too far and asked for too many favors to give up.

This has been such an experience and I am sad that in little over a month from now it is all over. I have met the most amazing people and gotten to do some of the coolest things. The next two weeks are going to be busy. Next Saturday I am going to learn to make stain glass with my friend Don and Sunday I am going to be an extra in a movie. The weekend of Feb. 16th, Todd and I will be traveling to Lubbock, TX to hang out with my friend Chris and attend a Jack Ingram concert. Jack's management has been nice enough to allow Chris and I to introduce him on stage. My dream of being a rock star for a day is coming true. Too bad I have no musical talent but maybe I can fake it (at least I have Chris, and his mean air guitar, by my side).

Most of the things on my list wouldn't have been completed if it weren't for friends, family and even strangers helping me. Lastly, I have 29 of 30 things planned and please everyone keep your figures crossed the 30th thing happens. Thank you again for your support!

Please write me at 30by30.charisse@gmail.com, I love hearing from you!

Until next time-Cbs

Luke, I can't take anymore of you....

It has been a cold and rainy weekend in Dallas. Friday night I made Todd promise me that he would "force" me to watch the final two Star Wars movies. When watching all the Star Wars made it on my list, I decided that I would watch them in the true order not the order in which they were released. The prequels weren't so bad and I could follow along with the story. There were a few things I didn't understand or get until the later movies. My less favorite of the six was the original Star Wars. To me it was the hardest to get through. I actually fell asleep about three times before finally finishing it. I know I am going to offend hard core Star Wars fans, but I really liked the prequels.

Yesterday, we were stuck inside and I spent the entire afternoon watching the final two movies. Another task marked off the list.

Everything else is on my list is scheduled except for announcing a band on stage and being on the Today Show with my favorite, Matt. I have emailed back and forth with a producer at the Today Show and hopefully something happens with that. Same goes with the announcing a band on stage, I would love to introduce Jack Ingram and I am working on it with a few friends. Keep your figures crossed.

Until next time--May the force be with you!

C

Stars Wars...does it ever end?

Four down and two to go...Sorry for not posting in a while. Yesterday, I watched the original Star Wars. I have watched all three prequels but I fell asleep during Star Wars three times. My number 1 goal for the week is to finish the final two movies. Watching all six Star Wars movies is the never ending project.

I am the only person I know who didn't eat a McDonald's hamburger and never have seen a Star Wars movie until turning 29.

Until next time-Charisse

I would like to thank the Academy for this Honor...

If you have seen what I have left on my list, you know the next couple of months will be exciting! The one thing I have been scared about accomplishing is being an extra on a movie. But, Friday night there was huge surprise in my email...

Hello Charisse,
My name is John and I'm directing a film starting at the end of January...a film that your friend Ian has been cast in! Well, he got word to me about your 30 by 30 quest and that one of the goals was to be an extra in a movie. I can let you know, with confidence, that being an extra is going to be no problem. Consider it done! We'll even let you choose what day you want to be there. I'm assuming you'll want to be there on a day that Ian is shooting. . So fear not...you'll be able to mark that item off your list in late January or early February.

Cheers!
John

Do you think it is too early for me to start practicing my speech for the Oscars?

Until next time-
Charisse

p.s. Happy Holidays. Todd and I are going skiing and hopefully I will finish the Star Wars movies. I am also hoping to learn to play chess while we are gone.

Since people have ask... here are the remaining items on the list:

• Go to London --Scheduled March 19-27, 2007
• Announce Band on Stage -Feb. 17, 2007
• Learn to Play Chess
• Participate in Greenville St. Paddy Day Parade (obviously scheduled on St Paddy's Day)
• Write Five People who have been an Influence in my Life (3 of 5 complete. So far this has been the most rewarding item on my list)
• Make an Announcement on the Texas Senate Floor (Chuck, I am counting on you. Tentatively scheduled March)
• To be on a talk show (As you can tell, this is the biggest stretch... but I am making progress. Keep your fingers crossed!!!)

Leonardo, Raphael, Michaelangleo and Donatello...More than Ninja Turtles--Who knew?

I kid... of course I knew that these names were of great Italian Renaissance artist but that was about it. I am in grad school and I have one more semester left in my program. Since the beginning I kept saying I was going to take the Italian Renaissance Art History class. So, this semester I finally did. I think it is safe to say I have spent more time on this item on the list than any other.

I have been to Italy and have seen a lot of the great works up close and personal. But, I wanted to know what makes each one of the artist so great. Since I have no artistic ablity, I appreciate those who do. I had it my mind that an art history class would be easy. Little did I know, it really history told through art. My professor was "Goode" (actually she was great but her name is Goode) and has an enourmous passion for art that she past along to me.

The best part of the semester was "Bring a Friend to Class Day" which was last Monday night. I thought Todd would enjoy it b/c we were discussing Venice one of our favorite cities. I loved this class so much that next semester I am taking the Modern Art History class. Hopefully, I did well and maybe in my next life I can be a guide in Italian Art Museum.

Krissi

I had one of the most memorable Thanksgiving Days of my life. I decided Thanksgiving morning would be the perfect time to tell a special family what they meant to me. Several years ago I had the pleasure of meeting one of the most incredible fifteen-year-olds, Krissi. I actually met Krissi's mom, Susan, first and immediately became friends. Over the years, I developed a friendship with not only Susan, but the entire family; Big Daddy (Leon), Kati, Danni and of course, Krissi.

We lost Krissi about two and half years ago and she was only 18. Krissi is one of the bravest people I have ever met. Krissi lit up the room and always had a smile on her face. You could not help but fall in love with Krissi. She had a great spirit and was wise beyond her years.

Krissi and Susan actually helped save Todd's and my wedding. It is a very long story but the garden had booked fell through about two months before our wedding. In a panic I called Susan (she knows everyone in town and if you are ever in trouble call Susan) and she said, "this is a perfect day for you to call me. Krissi isn't feeling well and this will be a project we can work on together. I will make a few calls and call you back." Fifteen minutes later the new location was booked for our wedding.

Krissi taught me several things. As Krissi's dad Leon said, it was never I or me with Krissi, it was always we. She thought of everyone else before herself and never wanted anyone to see her in pain.

Thank you to Susan, Leon, Danni, Kati and especially Krissi for making a difference in my life. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family.

FORE!!!


Friday, October 13, 2006 might go down as one of the best days of my life. It all started Thursday afternoon when FOX 4 news anchor, Steve Eagar called me. Steve knew about my list and a few weeks ago told me he wanted to be there when I learned to play golf. We made a plan to play sometime in October. Thursday about 5pm he called and asked if I could take off work on Friday afternoon because we were going to play golf and there would be a camera following me around. The pressure was on...not only was I going to learn to swing a golf club for the first time in my life but also I was going to have a news camera watching me. Thankfully, my boss did let me have the afternoon off (Thanks Barry!).

The whole reason I wanted to learn to play golf was to be able to play with my dear friend John. Thanks to John for taking Friday afternoon off, as well. Steve had it all arranged for me to work with a golf pro and take a lesson before we got out on the course. I had the best teacher, Noah. I was nervous, and of all my the things on my list this might have been the hardest. I was scared that I wouldn't be able to even hit the ball. Thanks to Noah, not only did I hit the ball but I also had a pretty decent swing. The fact that I had a camera watching my every move wasn't the reason I was so nervous. It was the thought of embarrassing myself in front of Steve and John.

It only took me a few shots to catch the golf bug. I remember hitting the ball with the driver and it felt smooth and relaxed. That moment I decided the game of golf might actually be fun. After my lesson with Noah it was time for me to hit the course. Steve, John and I played a scramble and amazing enough we actually used my ball several times. There is still so much for me to learn about golf but at least I know how to swing and what clubs to use. Golf will be a part of my life and something that I will continue after this list is completed. Thank you to Noah, Steve and John for taking the time to teach me. I look forward to playing with each of you again soon. I swear I will spend a lot of time at the driving range.

I am not sure if it was natural ability that helped me not to embarrass myself or if it was just determination. I guess the only way to find out is to go out the driving range and see how I do next time.

When Steve was interviewing me he asked what I had learned for my 30 by30. That is such a hard question. There are so many things I have learned so far and I don't even know where to start. This was such a little simple idea that I thought no one would care about except for maybe Todd. I am not afraid of trying new things anymore and I actually enjoy it more than I ever thought possible. My favorite part of this list is how my friends and family have come through to help me accomplish my goal.

Down, Set, Hut...A New Language For Me



I don't understand football, I don't care about football, but I do think several football players are good looking. The only reason I had taking a football class on my list was because my brother, dad and husband love football. Todd loves it so much that as a child when he moved from Denver to Dallas he had to change his jersey at half-time of Super Bowl XII. He loved both teams and decided that he couldn't choose between them so he would cheer for both. That is loyalty.


I respect people who have had a favorite anything since childhood. So, to try understand football, I took a Football 101 class at Texas Statium. By the way, the Stein's own season tickets and this Stein has only been to one quarter in the last two seasons. CBS 11 Sportscaster, Babe Laufenberg was the instructor and very entertaining. Babe and I have known each other for several years and it was cool to have him as the teacher. A friend of mine Jordan went to the class with me. Jordan knows a ton about football and didn't really need the class but she was sweet to go with me. I think she even learned a few things.

I will never be an expert or really even like the sport. But at least I can impress the guys when I talk about the differences between a cover 2 zone and man-to-man coverage. And now when Todd is boring me to tears with what happened with his beloved Cowboys I won't be completely clueless.

Thanks to Babe for a great class and Jordan for going with me.

P.S. Brett (Photojournalist pictured) why didn't you use footage of me in the class for the 10pm news? I see what kind of friend you are.

Write 5 people who have made a Difference in My Life--

This past Friday I did something that I have wanted for years, say thank you to someone very special...Mrs. Choate my Latin teacher. I had Mrs. Choate all four years in high school and during my senior year I even took a class I didn't even need to graduate just to be in her class. I can't really explain what makes her so special. If I were ever a teacher I would want to be just like her. She is dedicated to her students and their education.

Mrs Choate, everything I said in the letter is true. You have made me a better person and I truly appreciate it.

The Hardest Job I Have Ever Had...
Being a High School Teacher

Friday, September 22, 2006, I wasn't Charisse the PR professional, I was Mrs. Brown-Stein, High School Teacher. I asked my favorite high school teacher Mrs. Choate, if I could come back to my hometown to be a teacher for the day. She was nice enough to say yes. Little did I know when we scheduled my "Teacher for the Day" that it was also Homecoming. That said, it wasn't your regular day at school.

Before my day of teaching I asked Mrs. Choate if there was anything that I needed to have prepared and she assured me she had everything under control. First period was Latin III and we were together for an hour and half. The students were great. They asked me great questions and we talked about what I did for a living and also about Todd's job (by the way, Todd wanted to see life in a small town up close and personal). You could tell that the kids enjoyed Mrs. Choate's class as much as I did more than a decade ago (that sounds so long ago). Next up was 2nd period, Latin II. This was a smaller class and again great students. By this time, I had the thought that this might be the hardest job I have ever had in my life.

Third period arrived with a big surprise, my friend Kara and her husband Michael, showed up to give "support" and watch me teach. Todd was in on the surprise and kept a secret from a whole week. It was actually my friend, Chris' idea to come and be a part of the class. Too bad Chris did not make it into town early enough to help me teach. Some strange way it made me feel really good that some of my friends wanted to come to give me grief as I was trying to teach our youth.

Well, the third class was great, even though it was right before the pep rally. Once again, they asked great questions. The only problem was the riff-raff that joined (riff-raff= Todd, Kara and Michael) and felt the need to be the "class clowns". To my third period students, I apolgize for the riff-raff.

Back to teaching...I know I learned a ton from the students on Friday and hopefully they learned something from me. Since my mom has been a teacher more than 30 years, I have always had the most respect for teachers. After today... I have even more.

Lessons learned:
1. Have a plan when you are going to keep the attention of high schoolers for an hour and half.
2. Don't invite friends to your place of work. They will only give you grief.
3. Respect your teachers. They put up with a lot.
4. The best reward in teaching is when you see a student learn something from you.

Grape Escape... but not a Great Escape

We might not be Lucy and Ethal but my friends are just as loyal. Everyone has seen the episode of Lucy and Ethal stomping the grapes. I am not really sure why I put this on my list but somehow it got here and thanks to three special friends it is checked off my list. Saturday Kara, Cassie, Amy and I competed in a grape stomping competition. I think we should have just gone stomping grapes and forgotten the competition. We might be the worse grape stompers in the world.

To give you a little background Kara is two days older than me (sorry Kara I had to bring that up) and we have known each other since we were about six weeks old. I met Cassie and Amy in first grade and we have been friends ever since.

Well, much to my friends regret, I didn't choose France, Italy, Napa... or heck, even a real vineyard. I choose the Grapefest, in the wonderful downtown of suburbia Grapevine Texas. So, between kettle corn, corn dogs, average (at best) wine, and grown women with huge turkey legs in their mouth... we entered the Grape Stomp competition. On a stage... for everyone to see.

We split up into two teams. Amy and Cassie were the Steer Stompers and Kara and I were the Graham Stompers. The rationale for selecting teams was plain and simple. Strategy? No Way! See, Kara isn't really fond of being the center of attention. And being on my team would automatically put her in the center of attention.

So, Kara wasn't that thrilled about being in front of a crowd and none of us were really thrilled to be stomping in a nasty barrel that hasn't been cleaned in a very long time. But we did it.

Was it fun? Well, yes... but only because of the people
Did we finish in last place? Yup (see the picture of Amy and I with our pitchers)
Would I do it again? In Italy, yes. In Grapevine, no
Did we have the best damn cheering section this side of the Fried Twinkee booth? Heck yeah! Thanks Grant, Spencer, Michael and Todd for cheering us on (and a shout out to Isaac who was truely heartbroken he had to miss the adventure due to work)

Do I still have three friends? I am not sure. Hope so.

Blue Wing Olive, Humpy Yellow, Peacock Caddis...
Just a Few of My Favorite Things

Let me first start by saying, my name is Charisse Brown-Stein and I fell in love this past weekend. I am a Fly Fishermen! I am not embarrassed or ashamed. In fact, once Orvis sees me in my fishing vest and waders, I am sure I will be their next top model. When I listed learning to fly fishing, my thought was "at least I will get a couple of days in Colorado and spend time with Todd's dad, Barry and stepmom, Linda." Best case was Barry and I would bond a little... on the other hand, touching a fish? GROSS! But, from the moment Barry handed me the fly rod, I was in love (with fishing, not my father-in-law. Once again, GROSS!).

On Friday, I attended my first casting lesson at the Barry School of Fly Fishing. I had doubts in my abilities because there are so many things to concentrate on so many things at once. Barry kept saying, "up, hold, down, up, hold, down, keep your wrist straight, up, hold, down, keep your wrist straight, up, hold, down..." By the end of the day, my head hurt. But my wrist was straight... well, kinda.

Saturday was a good day, on a beautiful stream, but it was rainy and cold. I caught five fish. Barry and Linda left it up to me if we went fishing on Sunday. I immediately said YES. On Sunday, we fished about five hours on the Colorado River. Not once did I think about the time or anything besides fishing. I caught four fish and missed more than I can even count. Linda did inform me that I hooked the fish "like a girl" and that I "needed to get tougher." Thank goodness Barry was there to lend a little support to the future Orvis model.

I knew Barry and Linda had this love affair with fly fishing but I could never really understand it until this past weekend. I learned that Barry started stream fishing with his grandfather at the age of 6 and enjoyed it. Then, 12 years ago Linda watched the movie A River Runs Through It and their hobby started.

Thanks Barry and Linda and my niece Paige for taking me fishing and helping me to find my new love.

Things I learned:
1. I am ready to retire and begin my professional fly fishing career.
2. I am not the only A type personality in the family (Linda you know what I am talking about).
3. Patience...at least I am trying to learn to have more.
and lastly
4. Either Todd learns to love fly fishing or we will have to take separate vacations.

Until Next Time-Cbs

(FYI, for the novices out there, Blue Wing Olive, Humpy Yellow, and Peacock Caddis are flies... as if you didn't know that)

Part 1: Creating a Gourmet Meal

My favorite meal is prime rib, Caesar salad, grilled mushrooms and asparagus from La Linda Stein's Kitchen. Linda is Todd's stepmom (or as she likes to be referred to the "wicked stepmonster"). So, I thought it would be fun to learn to how she makes such an incredible meal. This weekend while I was in Colorado seeing her and Barry (Todd's dad), I was the chef. Friday was the big day, we already had been to Kremling Meat Market to get the prime rib and all there was left to do was for Linda to instruct me on how to prepare this wonderful dinner.

First thing I did was read the recipes, but I soon learned that the recipes were of no help. Linda uses recipes as loose guidelines not as something she actually follows. Basically me learning how to prepare my favorite meal went like this...

Me, "Okay, now we are ready to add four tablespoons for vetagable oil and two tablespoons of olive oil to the Caesar salad dressing (I was reading straight from her recipe that was written by her).
Linda, "No, you need three of each."
Me, "Why don't you just change the recipe to reflect the right amounts."
Linda, "Because if I give the recipe to someone else that is how I want them to do it."
Me, "That makes no sense... but okay I don't know any better."

I had to do everything, Linda just stood there with my video camera getting every movement on tape as I slaved over the hot stove for hours. But, I guess it was all worth it. Thanks to Linda for teaching me how to prepare my favorite meal. I did figure out one of the reasons it is my favorite meals is b/c I don't have to do anything but show up for dinner. Also thanks to Tim (my brother-in-law), Amy (Todd's sister), and their adorable kids, Paige and Aaron, and last but not least, Barry (my father-in-law) for raving about my meal and hard work (okay they might not have raved but they wanted to but were scared to hurt Linda's feelings).

Part 2 of Gourmet Meal is happening in September... you will just have to wait and see.