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A big CONGRATULATIONS to Goddesses Lori Austin (Lori Handeland) and Sabrina Jeffries for being named as RITA finalists for their historical romances BEAUTY AND THE BOUNTY HUNTER and A LADY NEVER SURRENDERS!
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- Cute shoes from zulily.com
Hey, it’s me, The New Girl! I’ve got on my brand new shoes and slung over my shoulders is my new backpack (baby pink, with rhinestone decorations) and I’m wearing the dress my mom just finished sewing for me yesterday which is a little scratchy and an inch or more too long so there’s room to grow. But…but…I can’t seem to find my classroom, and the halls go on endlessly…
Wait. What? Oh, thank goodness, it’s just that dream I’ve been having every night for the last couple of weeks. I’m done with school! My mom doesn’t make my clothes any more. And the only thing real about that dream is I am the New Girl (er, Goddess). Because joining an established community such as this seems to be a lot like the start of classes at a brand new school.
I’m worried about whether anyone will play with me at recess and if the lunch my mom packed will seem dorky to the other kids and if everyone hates my bangs like I do–in the blogging sense of all those concerns.
Now the metaphorical teacher has called my name and asked The New Girl to introduce herself and so I’m standing up, my knobby knees quaking a little.
I’m Christie Ridgway, and I love to read. I also write books, something I’ve wanted to do since I was old enough to hold a pencil. I write sexy, make-you-laugh-make-you-cry contemporary romances, almost all of them set in California where I’ve lived my entire life. In addition, I pen a monthly column highlighting romances for a review publication you can see at www.BookPage.com (and you can find the print version at your local library). My next books, a back-to-back-to-back trilogy, come out in February-March-April of 2013 from HQN Books. They are set on the sand at a Southern California cove and the first is titled Beach House No. 9.
Whew. With that out of the way, I get to sit down now. I’m pretty sure this is the kind of place where nobody will make fun of me for my love of reading and won’t be bothered as I look out the window and start recalling other first days…
The truth is, I never started a new school. My mom still resides in the house where I lived since I was three years old and the friends I made in kindergarten were by my side at high school graduation. When I went to college, my freshman year I roomed with my best friend from home.
So I think the scariest first day I ever had was when I started my first post-college graduation job…and my car broke down on a freeway overpass. This was before cell phones and through a miscommunication by the Highway Patrol, I was left on the side of the road for four hours, unable to leave my car or let my new employers know I hadn’t changed my mind.
Then there was the first time I went to a dinner thrown by my new publisher at an RWA conference. I only knew one person, so I was sticking close to he
r as we made our way there. At one point we had to get in an elevator and I stepped forward–just as the doors closed on my friend. I was without my security blanket! Heading to a party where I didn’t know anyone and wanted to impress everyone! Terrified, I followed the others out of the elevator car, quivering like a lost lamb. Next thing I knew I was in the middle of a cocktail party. Someone handed me champagne. Not until I got up my nerve and introduced myself to someone (a Big Name Author I probably should have recognized by sight) did I realize I had gotten off on the wrong floor and was at the wrong publisher’s big to-do. Yes, you can call The New Girl Christie the Party Crasher.
Tell me about one of your memorable first days! Were you ever an anxious New Girl? I’ll randomly select two commenters to win a free Christie Ridgway book.
130 Comments on “Hi, I’m The New Girl!”
You can track this conversation through its atom feed.
Hey, Christie!!!! I’m B! I really like your shoes, and you can play with me during recess if you want!
You sound like one of my characters! I have this series of characters that are California based and have been BFFs since they were kids!
I’ve been The New Girl a few times. I was in 6th grade when I changed schools. You’d think it would have been a hard time to be new, but I fit right in. My 6th grade friends are my friends to this day (Okay, so, I’m only 24. But, still… It’s like half of my life!).
I was The New Girl when I started Law School when I was 17, and that wasn’t bad, because all my 6th grade friends went to the same Uni as me. Except that I didn’t talk to anyone else but them. Eventually, one of them went on exchange, two changed schools, another took a year off, and I found myself friendless. That was bad.
BUT, that was around the time I went on exchange (I’m from Brazil), and soon after I came back I quit Law School to study Languages. Then I was The New girl again. But with a bunch other new people. I made a bunch of friends, who now, 3.5 years later, are good friends.
Just recently I started teaching English, but I wasn’t that much of a New Girl because I’d studied at the English School I teach, so, I knew everyone there
I’ve known my boss for like 10 years.
So, this is me! I’m a babbler and a rambler. Also, I hate the show New Girl. Just FYI. But I liked you
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 3:38 am.
Hey, B! Thanks for being my first new buddy. I have cookies. Want to share?
Your life sounds so interesting…and you’re only 24. I like having interesting friends.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:49 am.
Believe it or not, my life SEEMS interesting, but it’s super boring. I slept all day yesterday, taught my class, bought dinner, rented a end of the world movie and came home. That’s hoe mundane I am
But thank you!
Always happy to share snacks! I have candy
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 3:12 am.
Totally agree with you on the show.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:41 am.
ps: is this the exciting news announced on the site thingie up there???
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 3:39 am.
I think I’m it.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:50 am.
I’m really excited! Ask Archer up there! She’ll tell you
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 3:10 am.
Memorable NG days…yes, I have a few. The memorable “first day” would be my first stop/step in the U.S.A. Then re-orientating myself with a branch of my family, and the “first day” of school. Another school after my family moved to our first place, and then returning to my first school when there were too many students for my second school to handle.
Of course, there is also the NG moments in which one becomes a freshman in junior/senior high. That’s always a doozy.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:38 am.
Hi, E,R. It helps to know everybody has their first day moments. Going to a new country ranks with the more scary, I imagine. It was hard enough for me to leave home to go to college six hours away!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:00 am.
Hi,
I am not good with first days, but it makes a big difference if those around you are welcoming & helpful.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:47 am.
You’re right about that, Mary! Thanks!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:52 am.
Hi Christie and welcome to not only TGB but Mt Oly where we all are goddesses (and gods for those blokes who read these blogs). Please make yourself comfortable and relax because we aren’t all that scary … well I am but that is usually first thing in the morning and I have a bad case of bed hair and morning breath but you get that.
I am happy to share some of my yummy Australian treats with you at lunch time since I am an Aussie, please excuse the cat hair though because I am also just a little bit of a cat lover (heh!).
I had a bad case of New Girl-itis on the first day of uni almost a decade ago. Mum had parked near the sports recreation center out at the uni and at that stage I was feeling fine, then I got out of the car and I puked. I was humiliated that it happened since it had never happened on the first day of high school or the first day of primary school (that I know of).
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:30 am.
Oh, Kelly, you poor thing. I hope your first day went better after that. Thanks for sharing your Aussie treats. Yum! And I don’t mind bed head or cat hair. My cat, Goblin, has long, clingy black hair but she doesn’t shed nearly as much as our yellow Lab, Hank. Thank goodness the tortoise doesn’t shed. He does run after me when he sees me in the yard, however, because he thinks my painted toe nails are strawberries, which he loves.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:56 am.
It actually went quite a bit better which was a relief, I hate being nervous and sick.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 7:02 am.
HI Christie. Love your books. Welcome to the party.
Never the new girl at school by parents still live in the same house since I was little too.
New girl at work a lot. No real exciting stories there. I do remember when I first started working in the hospitals billing dept. I was there a while when a co worker told me you can talk here. I was so used to my previous job that you couldn’t chat with anyone. sigh. Years later she told me that after that I never stopped talking. LOL
Welcome
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:32 am.
Thanks for the welcome, Judy! Oh, I would have trouble at a “quiet” job. As everyone will soon discover, I am quite the chatterer. Speaking of school, when I was in 6th grade, I and my three friends were assigned new seats…each of us in a different classroom corner, our faces to the wall to keep our talking level down. The teacher put me in the corner behind his desk. I loved it. Not only did he talk to =me= throughout the day, but I could lean my stack of library books against the walls.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:05 am.
When I was in 6 or 7th grade my teacher told my mom that I was the homework ring leader. I did that homework and let others borrow my answers. Sigh did I get in trouble.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:31 pm.
Welcome to Mt. Oly. Never been the new girl either unless you count jobs but I don’t. Love your books.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:37 am.
Hi, aida! So glad to hear you like the books. Thanks for the shout-out.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:56 am.
Welcome Christie! You will love it here, I visit every day and usually get a great laugh. I switched schools when I was going into 7th grade which was a terrible time in a girl’s life to make a switch. I was so nervous the first couple of weeks that I actually would wring my hands all the time! I finally stopped when someone asked me what was wrong with my hands!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:53 am.
Renee: I have always said that 7th grade should somehow just be removed from the school system. I’m so glad you made it through.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:22 am.
Welcome home, Christie. You’re going to like it here.
I took a job at a company at 19 yo and ended up staying for 23 years. Lots of folks stayed there a long time and it was a special place. So at evey goodbye party we had, I was known for asking the question ” What do you remember about your first day?”. Entertaining stories of neglect or chaos were the usual result. Oddly, I don’t recall my first day at the company I went immediately after that – it just wasn’t that memorable.
Anyway, love your party crashing story! That’s a gem.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 7:22 am.
Wow, that must have been a great place to work if you stayed for 23 years. They must have been great at picking their employees, too. Yep, I party crashed. I still cringe remembering that night.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:24 am.
Welcome, Christie. We are so glad you’re here.
I switched schools when I was 10 and I was so shy, I stood in the corner brick corner of the school and hid until it was time to go in. That was memorable. I’m glad I only had to do it once!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 7:52 am.
Hi, Lori! ::wave:: Thanks for inviting me to Mt. Oly. I want to go back in time and hug your 10-year-old self. Starting something new is never easy.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:26 am.
Hello Christie! I’ve had many first days at a new school so I can sympathize, my parents moved every 3 years until I hit junior high. I learned how to be outgoing and friendly even though I’m a bit of an introvert. You won’t lack for friends here and I know we’re all really glad to have you. Sit on down and we’ll start passing notes pretty quickly – mostly “I <3 Hugh!" flying back and forth across the room.
Welcome.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:00 am.
Hey, I get the “I <3 Hugh” reference so maybe I’m already fitting in.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:27 am.
Hi, and welcome. I have a depressing NG story. My parents moved across 2 states when I was 6, and I never felt like I fit into our new community, even though I lived there 13 1/2 years. My mom and brother still live in the area, but now that my grandma has passed on, I haven’t been back, instead making everyone come and visit me. I had a celebration when I realized that I have been away from there longer than I lived there! But, my kids are doing a lot better in school than I did, and they’re much happier than I ever was in school.
Welcome, and many happy posts to you.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:23 am.
Hi, Amanda. Thanks for the welcome. I’m glad you’ve now found your place. It’s funny how we identify with a particular area. I grew up in Northern California but now live in SoCal, yet I still have a strong affinity with the San Francisco Bay Area. My kids are SoCal all the way, though.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:29 am.
Hi Christie! It is so great to have you join us, and I look forward to reading your blogs.
A few years ago my husbands assistant talked me into playing on a baseball team. The last time I played baseball was the age of 7, but I gave it a go. I remember walking up to the team at my first game, not knowing anyone, but my hubby’s assistant, and wondering if anyone would like me, or if I would go out and embarrass myself. It was kind of like walking into my new school in grade 2. However, like in grade 2, I made some great friends, and had a blast doing it.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:23 am.
Oh, I’m so glad you had fun on the team, AmyS. My husband and I were in NYC’s Central Park a couple of weeks ago on vacation and enjoyed watching some softball games (one team was named the Killer Bees and when my husband asked why, they said, “Duh, because we work at Applebee’s.”
) We played on a co-ed team a number of years ago and reminisced about it. I’ll admit I wasn’t the best hitter, but I run pretty fast and my fielding was, well, ho-hum. But it was always a good time.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:34 am.
The highlight of my baseball career was a grandslam. Don’t ask me how I made it all the way around the bases, I though I might die when I touched home plate.
I gave it up 3 years ago when I had my daughter, but I do miss it. Maybe this spring I will join again.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:02 am.
Totally impressed by the grand slam! Wow.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:57 am.
I’m super excited you’re here!!! I love, love, love your books. They ALWAYS make me laugh and keep me entertained. No real memorable first days of school, however, on my very first job interview out of college, I was an hour and a half late, first with a flat tire on my craptastic car and then road construction/closures causing me to get lost (this was WAY before the invention of GPS). I still got the job!!!!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:28 am.
Thanks, kris, so glad you enjoy the books! And I’m also glad you got that job after the difficulty. I would have been a wreck at the interview.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:35 am.
Welcome Christie
I was the new girl a lot growing up because my family moved a lot. I usually hated it cuz kids can be mean. It was interesting how i was very popular in some places and nobody talked to me in others.
I moved to Scotland about a month ago. My husbands friends are nice but i dont really click with them. Its gonna be interesting trying to make new friends as an adult.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:47 am.
Hi, Archer! Oh, will enjoy hearing more about your Scotland adventure. I bet you’ll find your friends. I was thinking the other day (actually telling one of my sons) that while it can take some time, we usually find our people in any situation. I’ll bet that’s true for you.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:37 am.
Hi Christie! Welcome to our playground! I like how your backpack sparkles! I did some baking, fancy a cupcake? We can share
I’ve been the New Girl a lot – when I started school at 4, then again at 5 when we moved across the country, then at 8, and again at 11. Not to mention Uni. But we were all New Girls and Boys then so that was ok. Plus I’ve been the New Girl at work more than once. Though every time I’m the New Girl it always starts the same… the name! Good conversation starter, often hilarious, nearly always really frustrating! My most memorable first day was probably where I work now, I wore Dorothy shoes – I definitely made an impression!
I’m going to go to Amazon now to nosy around your books
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:57 am.
Angharad! I’m trying it out in my mind. I can sympathize about the name. The first name on my school records is “Christiane” and my mom pronounces it sort of like “ChrisJohn” and no teacher said it the same. Then I had a really weird maiden name that was botched every single time. It started with a “Y” and every single time I just agonized through roll call until they got to me and I had to explain it all and make sure they knew to call me Christie.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:41 am.
Welcome, Christie! I hope you enjoy Mt. Oly!
I don’t really have a memorable experience from one specific day. It’s just any first anything has this red head’s heart about pounding out of her chest. I usually find myself biting my lip, or nervously seeking out the nearest exit! First days or first times at something I am usually very quiet. Now…put some champagne (or alcohol of any sort) in me and that would change!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:09 am.
With a name that includes “Kelly Ryan” no wonder you’re a red head. Hi! Yes, alcohol can make the new go down a lot easier which is why I monitor myself at parties when I’m The New Girl so I don’t make a bad first impression!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:43 am.
Welcome to Mt. Oly Christie!
I don’t have a specific first day experience. I did however have some memorable days. One was at halloween and my teacher was in costume and I thought the costume had ate her. Funny, now I love halloween and dressing up. Go figure.
When I was in junior high I had one person pick on me and she tried to push me down the stairs. Eventually I had enough and punched her in her stomach and she stopped picking on me.
You would be welcome at my school and I’m bringing my wicked good brownies for a treat!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:26 am.
Hi, Angela! I love Halloween too. I’m sure I’ll be posting about my love of that holiday. I’m glad you punched the mean girl. You’re my hero for that…and the brownies.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:44 am.
Welcome Christie!! I’m a fan, and are excited you’re the new goddess. I think you’ll find the growing pains here pretty much non-existent. We’re a friendly group.
Like you, my family is still on the home farm–so there’s not much in the way of “new” experiences growing up, BUT when I went from small town (40 in the graduating class) to the big, bad University (4,500 in my graduating class)–it was a huge culture shock. As it turns out, I loved the community (and the college Go Cyclones!), and am still here several years later. So…it could be you’re doomed to the Goddess Blogs for several years if your path matches mine.
Have a great weekend, and welcome!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:29 am.
Hi, Haley! Wow, that had to be a culture shock. But now you get to visit the farm as well as enjoy a larger community–the best of both worlds. Thanks for the welcome.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:47 am.
Welcome Christie!! We are a pretty fun bunch around here, so you should fit right in.
I still remember my first day of high school was on my 14th birthday… When you are 14, the last thing you want to do is go to school, but especially on your birthday.
It was awful. And, that year, I intensely disliked one of my teachers (the first one of the day, too–yuck!), so it just started off with a bang.
My best first day–that’s easy! That is the first full day I was a grandmother.
There is nothing like it in the world!
So glad you joined us on the Mount, Christie!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:36 am.
Hi, Julie! Wow, b-day on first day of school. That would be memorable. Our neighbors just had a grandson born on Saturday a.m. It was so exciting for us, too, since we know the new mom and dad. Everybody says the grandparent thing is so much easier (and fun) than parenting.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:59 am.
Good morning and welcome to Mt Oly Christie!! I’ve read quite a few of your books and you definitely keep this ridiculously avid reader entertained
I’ve been the new girl a few times, AKA that awful 7th grade year too! We moved from Ohio to Philadelphia 2 months left of 7th grade at age 13. That about says it all doesn’t it??? I’d LOVE to wipe that year from memory. I think as an adult, it is definitely easier to make new friends in a new area if you have kids. We moved to Florida 7.5 years ago and all of the local friends I have now are my daughter’s friends parents or close by neighbors. It is a bonus when your kids are in elementary school so they need you to be at all of the events and participating in getting them there.
I’m happy to contribute cookies, sparkly drinks or anything else fun I might’ve found on Pinterest lately~ Welcome to the party Christie!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:37 am.
Yes, let’s get rid of 7th grade, shall we? But you’re right, friends are easier to make through our own kids. I have a monthly meet-up with a group of moms that came together when our kids were in kindergarten. Also made good friends through my sons’ sports teams. It’s great to meet another avid reader!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:50 am.
Oh I so agree about the sports teams. My daughter (age
joined our neighborhood swim team this past summer season. We FINALLY found a sport that she really enjoyed so what did I do? I became a board member for the coming year. Yeah, I know all about that one 
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:01 am.
Grr that was supposed to say age 8! Darn smiley face
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:02 am.
I won’t tell you how many times I’ve been team mom and my husband has been the coach. We always get involved with everything to the nth degree too. But it’s all good. It’s a great way to support your daughter and the other kids too.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:00 am.
So glad you have joined us, Christie!
I still remember my first day ever of school, so I guess that was a biggie for me. Fortunately I found a friend that day who remained a friend for decades. As for the first go-round at a new publiher’s party— I make my agent go with me so I don’t look like a deer in the headlights. I can’t imagine how stressed I would have been if I had your first day on the first job experience with the car. I would have thrown up.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:40 am.
Hi, Madeline! Thanks for inviting me to Mt. Oly. As for the morning I was left in the car…I remember exactly what I was wearing (and hah, it was an outfit my mom made me, she’s an excellent seamstress)and the copious amount of tears I shed. Besides the Highway Patrol, several men stopped and asked if I needed help, but the officers had stopped by and so I thought a tow truck was coming any minute and of course I was afraid to get into a strange man’s car.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:52 am.
Christie, I LOVE the story about getting off on the wrong floor at the wrong publisher party! That would SO happen to me.
I remember the first day my parents and I arrived in Bangkok. I was seven, and they’d been talking about it for months. We traveled with two other couples and their kids, so I’d had this image of the three families living on this sort of dirt road in three little huts, sort of like the three little pigs, side by side in the jungle.
Instead, we arrived in a teeming metropolis, where a bunch of missionaries showed up to welcome us and we went off to a lovely house in a compound on a busy street. The next morning, I awoke in a nice couple’s house to a breakfast of tropical fruit and eggs and bacon. It just wasn’t what I’d imagined AT ALL.
I still remember those early days fondly. Everything was new and exciting.
And we are SO glad to have you here, Christie! We hope everything will be new and exciting for you, too!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:02 am.
Thanks, Sabrina, for inviting me to Mt. Oly! Wow, I can imagine your entrance to Bangkok was memorable. And 7 is probably a pretty good age to experience new things. How exciting that must have been.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:03 am.
Hi Christie – it is nice to meet you and I am happy to see a new addition to the Mt. jumping up and down. I look forward to reading your books – I love finding new authors and I find a lot of recommendations here.
First day jitters – everytime I start a new job I am so nervious that I think I am going to pass out – “no one will talk to me; they will hate me; I am stupid and won’t figure it out” I have gone home on the first day of many new jobs saying “I hate it I want to go back to my old job” — but very soon everything snaps into place.
Let’s all hang out at recess and we can even share a place at the cool kids table at lunch.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:24 am.
Yikes i forgot to turn off the italics
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:24 am.
Jeanne, I’m just like you. It takes a while for me to feel comfortable at the new place. But now that you’ve invited me to the cool kids table I’m quickly adapting.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:04 am.
Welcome, Christie! So thrilled you are joining us on Mt Oly! You can sit next to me at lunch if you like.
Everyone here is great fun, sassy and will make you feel right at home in no time.
I have had many first days. I think I was new girl at enough schools that I don’t remember those much. I do remember my first day on the job at the studio. I walked in having lived in LA three days and had never been in a photo studio before. I barely knew how to get there (and back home) and I was tossed into a new industry, new town, new job and it was a little intimidating. I think that was the most anxious I have been on a first day of something. Luckily, it all worked out and I was there almost 7 years.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:24 am.
You’re so brave, Sheridan! I remember my first day job hunting after college. I was in a new city and I got a traffic ticket. I tried to charm my way out of it (I had crossed trolley tracks and this was the first day the road was open since they’d been put in–plus I was a newcomer to the area) and the officer didn’t let me off. I was so bummed and quite a bit miffed that my winning smile didn’t win the day.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:07 am.
Oh firsts…there have been many, although I am an extrovert and many say I can carry on a conversation with a brick wall, my first have been more like first experiences. I was a stay at home MOM for 17 years and then went back to work slowly. In doing so I then did a lot of outside training with people I did not know. What I discovered as I walked into a room full of people I did not know was that we were all there for the same thing so we obviously had a lot in common. When I go through this now I automaticlly take a deep breath and keep on walking. Good luck to you, I can’t wait to read your books. Thank you…
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:25 am.
Thank you, Linda! I love that you could carry on a conversation with a brick wall. Once I know the brick wall, I can talk to it all night.
Thanks for the welcome.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:09 am.
Hi, Christie and welcome! Love your books by the way.
Golly, I guess we’ve all been The New Girl at some time or other whether it’s with a new job or a new school. I think the time I felt the most uncomfortable was when I went from elementary to middle school. I had always had female teachers and was somewhat coddled I guess. I had a male teacher and he was truly nasty and mean. Of course, my hormones were kicking in, the acne was blooming like crazy and I felt awkward being belief. This teacher preyed on kids like me and enjoyed constantly humiliating us. He loved to punish the whole class by denying us our lunch. I would get shaky from no food. My Mom started wrapping pieces of cheese for me to slip in my purse. I would ask to be excused to go to the restroom and cram cheese in my mouth. Years later, I met a family member of his and told them to tell him how awful a person I thought he was and he should be ashamed of himself. Sometimes, revenge can be sweet.
Of course you didn’t ask for a pity party story but sometimes they can going along with being the “new girl.” However, if people are kind, friendly, helpful and welcoming, it can be such a positive thing.
So, Welcome, Christy!!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:29 am.
Thank you for the welcome, Connie! Oh, I can’t believe the teacher denied your class lunch. Terrible. And don’t we see a pattern? Middle school and/or 7th grade (the middle of middle school!) is never easy.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:34 pm.
Hi, Christie! Welcome! Love your books. They are some of my go-to reads when I am having a bad day as you always make me laugh.
Being an Air Force brat I had lots of first days as the new girl. We moved around quite a bit. Fortunately I tend to be sort of gabby so I usually managed to make some friends right away.
One of my most interesting first days was my first day as a professional opera singer. I’d been with the company for six weeks rehearsing so I knew the people with whom I was working, but it was my first night to perform. I strolled into the dressing rooms and all of these people I was just beginning to get to know were having their hair done, makeup done, getting into costume and they were all, pretty much, running around naked! Not something an Alabama-born girl who was raised Methodist, went to a Baptist’s women’s undergrad school and went to grad school in Mississippi was used to at all! I have to admit I spent most of the next two hours blushing beet red!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:49 am.
Louisa, that’s a great story! I would have been blushing too. When I was in college, in the summers I worked at Stanford University (my mom worked there and I had a clerical job with other students) and we used the gym to run every day at lunchtime. There were a lot older ladies using the facilities and it took a while for me to get comfortable with everyone else’s comfort with their nudity! I’m still the type who gets dressed under the towel.
Way cool on being an opera singer, BTW.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:12 am.
I’d like to pretend that New Girl days never existed, NEVER!, because I start to panic just remembering them! Fortunately I only had one bad experience, that one time in band camp… (get your mind out of the gutter!) I was terrified of EVERYTHING and everyone. Scary.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:52 am.
I can still remember the smell of the cabin at my first and only sleepaway Girl Scout camp. Did not like! I missed my family and I was always hungry, probably because I was a very picky eater as a kid. Love your dog pic avatar, Rebe! So cute.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:13 am.
Hey, Christie! Welcome. Come sit by me!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:48 am.
Thank you, Barbara! I knew I could count on you.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:35 pm.
Welcome to Mt Oly! You’re gonna love it here!
I’ve had many first-day jitters. I moved schools a lot when I was a kid, but I generally had an easy time making friends. I was nervous on the first day of my last new job, but I picked it up quick enough.
What I found was the MOST nerve-wracking was my first day as a mom. Or, the newest member of the ‘mom club’. I had no idea how to change my son’s diapers or put his tiny little cloths on, or how to swaddle him or… well, the list could go on. I was clueless and incredibly nervous. Of course, that was 3 1/2 years ago now, and I”ve had another little boy since then. It got WAY easier, and I’m not nervous anymore.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:53 am.
Hi, Cheri! Two boys like me! I had babysat a lot, including infants, so I had the diaper thing down. But I was nervous too. The dh was =really= nervous. Son1 was born right before Christmas so I stupidly told my mom not to come help until after the new year. I needed her right away. When Son2 was born, she flew here while I was still in the hospital and it was great to have her with me. Being a mom to boys is great!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:38 pm.
Yes, being a mom to boys is a blast! They’re very busy little guys. As I write this, my oldest just ‘trapped’ my legs with Spiderman’s ‘web’. Sigh. *cue the fake cry for help*.
He’s never even watched the movies, or the cartoons, or even read any comics or books about him, yet somehow he knows who Spiderman is.
I was lucky with help; my husband took the first week off of work after both the boys were born, and I had lots of family over all the time, so I hardly did any housework or cooked any meals. the main focus were the little ones.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:31 pm.
The help really makes a difference! Of course he knows who Spiderman is. Superhero knowledge comes downloaded with the male half of their DNA. He sounds adorable. What I’ve learned is how beneath all that boy-bluster are very tender hearts.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:46 pm.
Haha! That’s entirely possible. My boys know about things that I had no idea they’d even heard of. Even my husband is a fountain of odd facts.
Thank you
I think he’s pretty awesome! And yes, they do have very tender hearts. Not long ago, he gave me his most prized possession (a fake diamond) when he knew I was feeling blue, just to try to cheer me up. On the same occasion, my youngest climbed on my lap and cuddled me until I felt better.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:14 pm.
Welcome officially, Christie!!
And you’re making me look bad — I had everyone convinced that I answer posts so late because I’m aaaallll the way over on the West Coast, and here you are, bright and early. *g*
Btw, my mom has loved you since you came to see me sign books in San Diego when I was at the bookstore surrounded by tumbleweeds. After RWA she always asks if I’ve seen you and how you’re doing. If we lived a little closer, she would be trying to set up play dates. *g*
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:02 pm.
Oh, that’s so sweet. I remember the tumbleweeds place (as a matter of fact, the owner stopped by to chat with me at the Anaheim literacy booksigning in July).
I’ll admit that I did get up in the middle of the night to make sure the post came up like it should. But we get up early around here anyway. Hank the Pup believes in everyone rising at 6 a.m.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:41 pm.
Hi Christie and welcome to TGB. I don’t have cookies today but a couple of brownies and I’m happy to share.
I was new girl three times when I was growing up. My mom loved to move and it was always in the middle of the school year. And back then you didn’t get to finish the year at the old school you went right to a new class, new teacher in the new school.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:26 pm.
Brownies! Thanks, Sue. That must have been hard to change mid-year. Your mom like to move! My husband and I live in the first house we bought. It was supposed to be our “starter” house but we loved the neighborhood so much we added on instead of moving. But that means we just keep accumulating stuff and don’t have a reason to do a good purge. The things my husband saves just in case!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:43 pm.
Hey New Girl! Welcome to our world, we are a really fun bunch of people!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:31 pm.
Thanks for the welcome! I like you all already.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:44 pm.
Welcome to Mt. Oly!!! You have nothing to be nervous about around here. All the goddesses are wonderful and we earth bound admirers appreciate you all. I was the new girl quite a lot when I was young. Always moving. I, however, had an edge in that I had a twin sister. I was the shy one, she the outgoing one. When she made friends she would drag me along and introduce me and then ask if they minded if I played along with them. She was great and still is! When I went away to college I was on my own. Still shy in person!
Anyway, welcome! I have been a reader of your books for a long while. Love them!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:47 pm.
So glad you enjoy the books, Debbie. And you have what is my lifelong dream…a twin! That’s so cool. I’m not surprised that you have your differences, though. I caught a few minute of the show about the conjoined identical twins (they’re 22 now!) and was astonished to learn that one is terrified of heights while the other is not. But even living within the same body they are two different people (they also have one outgoing twin and one shyer). Thanks for the welcome!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:49 pm.
HI Christie – great to “see” you on this site.
The New Girl – I become very self concious of that. Thinking back on my school years, all the jobs, moving around – wow, I guess I am always the New Girl. I can’t say that I have great “new” girl stories, but the best “new” story was when I became a mother. I was young, hidden away for the shame it caused my family, but 36 hours of labor and holding my son for the first time was the best, thrilling, terrifying moment of possibility I ever experienced (luckily I experienced it again with my daughter). I also think I worry about their “newness” in their steps more so than they do.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 12:59 pm.
The new mother thing might be one of the most “new girlish” moments of them all. Amazing how we can forget those hours of labor when the baby is in our arms. I’m a real baby person. I’m excited to go see some friends next Sunday. Their daughter that just had a baby will be there and I’ll get to hold her!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:51 pm.
Welcome Christie! I look forward to reading your posts and your blogs.
I have been the new girl several times in my life, and I never really minded. I like to meet new people and have this continuous dialogue going through my mind so I am never really lonely. I’m not crazy, honest, I just hear voices and write down what they say.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:31 pm.
Okay, I have to admit this “hearing voices” story. I was writing the end of a book but had to run to the grocery store. The whole time the voices in my head were doing the happy ending dialogue. As I drove home I was listening, listening so avidly that I didn’t pay enough attention to avoid the bumper of the car I pulled in front of at my house.
Lucky (or not) it was one of our own cars. ::sigh::
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:55 pm.
Hi, Christie, and welcome to our group! I look forward to reading your books! I remember what it’s like, being the New Girl. Four years ago, I changed Churches, from the one that I’d gone to my whole life to the one where I now go. I had taught religion (CCD) for 29 years at my old one, so I volunteered at this one. I remember my first meeting; walking in, everyone knew lots of other teachers, while I only knew the director. I was so nervous! But everyone made me feel like I’d always been there, which made it that much easier for me. I wish you the same love and support that I was given! You’re one of us now!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:49 pm.
Thanks you, Maria! The welcome here has been fab. It sounds like you landed in a great place at your new church.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 2:56 pm.
Christie, we are so glad to have you with us on Mt. Oly! Thank you so much for becoming a goddess.
I remember being more anxious about riding the bus than class. But then again, it was huge, and so were the kids on it
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 3:49 pm.
Thanks, Julia! I always went to “walking” schools. As a matter of fact, my first school (K-4) was one in which everyone walked home for lunch. The crossing guard lady was there in the mornings, at lunch, and after school. Mom would have hot soup waiting. I always wanted to ride a bus to school! I guess I should have been careful what I wished for.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:08 pm.
Welcome Christie! My first experience at being the new girl, was at college. I had talked to my roommate on the phone before school started. It’s funny because we arrived outside at the same time and just knew each other. It was kind of weird because we’re both redheads, our bedding matched, etc. We’ve been friends every since then. That night she was gone, and it’s kind of lonely in the dorm room. I went to the bathroom, and there was this girl in the bathroom, ironing her shirt. We started talking, and she invited me to go clubbing with she and her roommate. While I was getting ready to go out, my roommate showed up, and we all went together. We were inseparable after that. Unfortunately, I lost touch with those 2 girls. I keep checking facebook, hoping that they include their maiden names because we had SO much fun together.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:10 pm.
Oh, I love that story Janae. So cool that you clicked with your roommate right away. That’s the problem for those of us that didn’t keep our maiden names…it’s easy to lose track of people.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:10 pm.
I just remembered a NG story. When I started working part time at B. Dalton (miss that place) I was forever referred to as the new girl. You know give it to the ng to do, or the ng needs to learn this etc. Finally one day I said new girl has a name. LOL
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:34 pm.
I loved B. Dalton too, Judy. Spent many fun hours there, looking at books. I came up with the “New Girl” idea for this post not from the TV show (I’d forgotten about that until someone mentioned it up thread) but because I was listening to a J.D. Robb IN DEATH book and they kept referring to the “new guy.” Just like you at the bookstore! (And I think his name is Santiago.)
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:12 pm.
Hi Christie and welcome. I’m the New Girl all the time because I do contract accounting work. My contracts last anywhere from 1 or 2 mos. to a year or more and I’ve been doing this for 20 years now. Every time I walk into a new company, I have to start all over again. The good thing is that I get to meet lots of great people. The bad is that I get that butterflies in stomach feeling all the time. Clearly, though, I must like it since I never get the urge to get a permanent job. Every new contract is a new adventure and I’m always hopeful that it will be great.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:34 pm.
Jen: I’m glad you like your job, because a good friend’s daughter is starting one that sounds just like that in October. It appealed to her because she likes that idea of essentially “changing jobs” without actually changing jobs. You know what I mean. But I’d be like you, still having butterflies at the start.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:14 pm.
Hey, New Girl! Welcome to Mt. Oly. We’re happy to have you here, Christie.
I remember starting work when I got out of college. I was a really low “New Girl” on the totem poll, working in a small department with folks who were all old enough to be my parents. They were so wonderfully experienced. I was a bit intimidated at first, but not for very long. I learned so much from each of them and I am thankful for the opportunities it gave me.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:47 pm.
Hi Christie,
Welcome to Mt. Oly and the fun.
I just recently started working with a different director here at the school, and oh my(*&#$@.
And here at BSofB, SU, we are going from Blackboard to Moodle (grading info) and boy this morning it had be on the ledge.
So, stay sane and always if you get near the ledge, reach out to someone to talk you down.
Have fun!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:56 pm.
Thanks for the welcome, Ginger. It’s not easy working for new people and with new tools. I admit I resist change of any kind, but sometimes you can’t get away from it!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:17 pm.
Welcome to the Mount, Christie. It’s great to have you join the Goddesses. Great post. One of my uncomfortable firsts was a job interview for a position I’d been recommended for. I wanted to make a great impression. However, when the big day came it was pouring rain and the bottom of my suit skirt got drenched because I had to walk several blocks from the PATH station to their office building. I was over an hour late for the interview because the trains were running off schedule. They must have taken pity on me or I gave a great interview because I got the job to continue doing something I loved in the computer field.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 4:56 pm.
I was going to say you better have gotten the job after that drenching! We were just riding the subways this summer in Boston and NYC, and then the ferry and the train too, and we loved the mass transit (since SoCal doesn’t have a lot of that), but I did get to thinking employers might have to be a little flexible when you’re at the mercy of whatever’s happening. Our train got delayed for 2 hours from Boston to NYC in Connecticut because a downpour left the track submerged and we were on an electric train.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:20 pm.
Welcome Christie!! I was definitely a new girl at school more than once because we moved every 2-3 years! Sometimes in the middle of the school year. Good times! Really I wouldn’t trade it, because there were so many great experiences once you got to know everyone.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 5:42 pm.
Rochelle: Sounds to me like you’re friendly and outgoing and made the best of it. Good for you!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:20 pm.
Welcome Christie.
New Girl experiences. Hmmm…I used to have a lot of them, but now not so much. I dive in reach out a hand and say,
Hi! My name is Belzebub! But my friends call me Pesky.
Why the heck not? What’s the worst case scenario? They don’t like me? *snort* I’m pretty freaking awesome, just ask any of my friends of over 30 years…newer ones to even. Like me or not…not losing sleep over it.
Anyway welcome! Show us what you got!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:00 pm.
Thanks for the welcome, Pesky! Hey, when you have friends for that long you’re obviously doing something right.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:21 pm.
Ever since I met you in NY at TCR, I’ve been wondering when the Goddesses were going to recruit you! So glad to have you here. Welcome welcome welcome!
I’ve been the new girl for the last two weeks. I’ve been extremely absent on TGB due to my new teaching job! I finally got myself a contract position at a new-to-me school.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:30 pm.
Congrats on the new job! Not easy getting into teaching these days, I know. I’ll look forward to your visits to Mount Oly when you find the time.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:09 pm.
Welcome Christie, it’s good to see you! In the last few years I’ve had a couple of the “new girl at work,” days. I was unemployed and before I landed my full-time job, I was offered a part-time job at a grocery store. I hadn’t worked in retail for many years so that first day was nerve racking, especially when they told me I could be arrested and led out in handcuffs if I sold alcohol to a minor!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 6:51 pm.
Well that had to make you nervous, Barbara! I also think of your poor feet during the grocery gig. I worked retail and waitressing and those kinds of jobs can make your toes cry. Thanks for the welcome!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:38 pm.
Welcome Christie, you will find this a friendly group, never fear
Yes I always find myself the new girl. I don’t have a best friend to do things with (not for lack of trying…) so I’m forever going to new things ALL BY MYSELF
. It’s the pitts, and I kinda stand to the side and observe for a while. I sit toward the front and smile A LOT. I’ve been told I have a great smile, that it’s my gift to others. I have quite a few nice acquaintances these days but still no BFF. So yes I do know what it’s like being the new girl. Welcome to the Goddess Blogs! You’re among friends 
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 7:01 pm.
Glittergirl: Good for you for going out there and smiling! The BFF will show up. We read a book for my book group last year, a memoir about a woman who spent a year actively seeking a best friend. No magic answer, however. But books are always are friends, yes?
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:42 pm.
Welcome Christine!
I remember my first day of kindergarten-I had missed the first week of school due to strep throat. Went to school, and was OK until “Show and Tell”- I had the other kids but I didn’t bring anything to show but HAD to be a part o fthe action so i showed off my new plaid jumper and promptly got the silent treatment. Apparently I was the only one excited about a new outfit. It was pretty too and one of my only new things-I was one of a large family so new didn’t happen very often. I wonder why my big sister never told me about Show and Tell. Hmm.
I have gone on to bigger and better since then but still quail a bit at public speaking.
I am sure you are much more comfortable on Mt. Oly.
And the dress is perfect on you.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 7:18 pm.
I would have appreciated the show-and-tell jumper! I still do show-and-tell when I come home from shopping. Make my sons do it too (or I do it for them) and display new things for my husband. I think most of us quail at least a little at public speaking. Thanks for the welcome!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:46 pm.
Welcome Christie! I really enjoyed your new girl entry. You really should write a book.
My best friend moved in first grade and when we moved the next year, and I was the new girl, there was Judy! The easiest of my many new girl experiences. Two different colleges, six different jobs and many professional conferences have all made me anxious.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:38 pm.
Oh, how sweet to re-find your BFF! If only all transitions could be so easy. After my Son1 was born, I stayed home a bit and then looked for a part/time job as a tech writer. Got an interview, walked in the door and who should be there but a guy who I had shared an office with a job before. He was also my daily running partner and a really nice guy and I got the job. Perfect for a new mom who wanted to work from home.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:49 pm.
Welcome, Christie!! I’m posting this from one of my son’s races and the internets haven’t been very friendly so I hope this posts.
I love your publisher party story. How funny! I always feel like the new girl when it comes to our annual publishing get together. Maybe because we only get together once a year? I don’t know, but I’m always sure I’ll make some gaffe and be forever known as ‘that Hawkins woman who ___’ (fell into the dessert table/sat on a cat/spilled her wine on the head Target buyer) etc.
It hasn’t happened yet, but I know it will ….
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:40 pm.
Hey, Karen! It came through. Hope your son is having success today. Those pub parties are always fraught with tension. I could tell stories… My fave was when I seated next to one of the big buyers at dinner. I turned to her, introduced myself, and said, “How are you?” She burst into tears. Turned out she’d just left her baby at home for the first time. This, I could understand, and we bonded over mom stuff. But it was a little disconcerting at first. I think a couple of the men at the table were thinking “better her than me!”
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 8:52 pm.
Starting the first day of school and not knowing anyone.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 9:21 pm.
Isn’t that a nerve-wracking feeling? We survive, but still it’s hard.
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 12:32 am.
I got my dream job (this was many years ago). I found out two days later that I was pregnant. I started my dream job two days later. I don’t do well in new situations so it was a rough day. My new coworkers thought there was something wrong with me because I kept running to the bathroom. I couldn’t tell them I was pregnant so I just pretended I was sick. It was so embarrassing!
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:37 pm.
Ack! Pregnancy sickness and a new job. Poor you. I hope it didn’t last long. And then pretending it wasn’t happening. You’re a trooper.
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 12:36 am.
I’m so glad you are in the Goddess Blogs & that you have a new series coming out next year! I loved the Three Kisses series. I had a first day of work similar to yours. My car broke down on the Long Island Expressway. Luckily, I was walking distance from work, but how embarrassing! It was a 1970 Cutlass with 195,000 miles on it.
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:39 pm.
Hi, Sharlene! Wasn’t that first day the worst? My car was a Honda Civic and it went on to serve me quite well (embarrassingly, it needed a tune-up) but I never felt quite the same about it. Makes me feel great to know you enjoyed the Three Kisses trilogy.
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 12:38 am.
Hello and welcome! So glad to have you here at TGB. I love ‘meeting’ new authors and now I have some new books to check out because it sounds like you write what I love to read!!
I’ve been ‘new girl’ at a poetry class. I decided to take a writers class (at local college) for creative writing but had to take a few other pre-requisites first and I ended up in a poetry class (knowing hardly anything about poetry except that I didn’t understand much of it) and there I was. New girl. They welcomed me and helped me and taught me. And I even had some poems published as a result of that group. I remember my face feeling so hot and flushed the first time I had to get up and read something that I had written. But it got easier
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 10:40 pm.
Congratulations on your poetry publication! I was an English major in college, but the only creative writing class I took was a poetry class. I so enjoyed it. I had written poems for years, but I wrote probably my favorite poem for that class titled “The Highjumper” which was all about my boyfriend (now my husband) who was a highjumper in college. I was very nervous reading it to the class.
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 12:42 am.
I remember being the new girl when I started one of my jobs, it was a receptionists position. When I took my breaks and lunch the first day, I went into the staff kitchen with my book and cup of tea, and sat at a table by myself.. One of the staff came over and asked me what I was reading, I can’t remember at the time, after all it was always 14 yrs ago, but they asked me to join them and we have been friends ever since..
So books do bring people together..
Posted on September 6, 2012 at 11:00 pm.
Yay about books bringing people together! I love it. So many people enjoy their book groups these days (me included) that I’m so happy for us readers. We understand the power of story!
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 12:45 am.
Hi Christie, I don’t like first days. I’m shy until I get to know people. I’m usually the one to speak to the new person because I can remember how I felt.
Posted on September 7, 2012 at 7:29 pm.