Sun Goddess in training

Now that Summer is here with all that heat, I am planning my days around the pool. Tim asked me, in a sincere voice, the other day, how I feel my tan is coming along.
I found that question to be amusing on a number of levels.
First of all, I am not given to emotion regarding the amount of melanin in my skin. I am given to raptures regarding new swimwear, and warm weather, and even leisure time.....but not melanin. And I don't really sunbathe as a goal. Mostly, I lay in the sun for relaxation, delight, warmth, to supervise my children, or to read. The whole tan thing is a lovely bi product.
My Mother used to refer to me a 'mushroom', on account of how I'd hide in a cool, dark corner with a good book all Summer. That was how I spent Summers when I was young. My skin still gets startled every time I expose it to UV rays. I always, every time, consistently burn during the first week of outdoor activity.
Tim's sincerity at asking that question was amusing, too. He's a very thoughtful man, and a very tan one. He sees leather skin as an important part of aging.

I was looking through Scripture this morning for examples of step-parents. Jesus had a step-dad, you know. Are there any step-moms in Scripture that aren't wicked? Why are they always shown as wicked in books and movies? Do I have to be wicked?
Joseph, Jesus' step-dad is shown in all the capacity of a real dad. He protects and provides, he parents, he is the legally recognized father. He's obeyed by Jesus. What other examples of step-parents are there?

Moving right along....Why can't I find a dress to be married in?
I want a pretty sundress. White. Slightly more dressy than your average sundress. I do not want taffeta, empire waist, or double digits.
Kara and I went to the Black market/white something-or-other store yesterday morning to try their dresses. The little sales girl asked what size I wear (6) and she looked me up and down, then kept bringing me 8s. Hate her. The empire waist things look so maternity on me. The strapless things should Not be worn by women over 38 who have forgone plastic surgery. It was a depressing and futile excercise.

Plus, also, too
Have I mantioned that I am overwhelmed at all that I am supposed to plan and pull-off over the next 7 weeks? Homeschool, marriage, moving, homeymoon, reception, and a good tan. All while being a single mom, and working to pay the bills. I kind of putter around the house muttering incoherently, while getting exactly nothing accomplished.
But I have a nice ring. So that's something. And my tan really does accent that large diamond so nicely.