BOOKS
Hi, I'm Stephanie,
It’s a disease. And I had it—I thought I could do anything! Add to that my Pollyanna outlook and self-proclaimed role as head cheerleader, and you’ll understand my parenting style.
And then it was over! The kids were gone. My world packed up and moved away. I was alone, feeling sorry for myself, blaming my husband and struggling to find my purpose.
Why didn’t anyone tell me this empty nest thing would be so hard?
I knew I had to do something.
With a lot of laughter and a few tears, I wrote my stories down. They helped me remember the happy times, the crazy times … they got me laughing again, and most of all … they helped me move on. I hope they can do the same for you.
Welcome to my Empty Mess®. ~xo, Stephanie
In this energized second collection, the kids are grown. The carpool is over. And after decades of being Mom-in-Chief, there’s suddenly a little more room in the schedule—and a lot more room to wonder: Now what?
In Empty Mess: Beyond Supermom, Stephanie Mason-Teague continues her funny, honest exploration of life after kids. This time, she’s ready to stop staring at the empty nest and wondering what comes next and start finding out.
Through stories of marriage, friendship, changing hormones, new family roles, and unexpected adventures, Stephanie experiments with letting go of doing it all. Sometimes that means breaking her own rules. Sometimes it means getting on an airplane to Africa. And sometimes it means admitting that hiring someone to paint the house is better than spending two months on a ladder.
This isn’t a roadmap for reinventing yourself. It’s one woman’s imperfect, frequently overthought attempt to enjoy the life she already has.
Because life beyond Supermom may be a little messy. But it’s also filled with possibilities.
"What People Are Saying"
"I was surprised at how much emotion the stories invoked in me. I was laughing out loud and brought to tears as I thought about raising my own kids ...". - Vicki A., Empty Messer Mother of Six
"The stories are thoughtful, reflective and humorous - truly entertaining". - Tara M., Empty Messer Mother of Three
"This book is a wonderful compilation of short stories that are interesting, funny and educational. They provide a truly needed inspirational account of reflection and self-renewal. Great book to sit down with a nice cup of tea or coffee and laugh, cry and think about transformation! Great job Mrs. Mason Teague and hats off to a funny, supportive husband, kind, successful children and your amazing career!!" - Dr. Andria K., Empty Messer Mother of Two
“Stephanie’s stories are honest and from the heart. You can relate to each of them”
~ Leslie K. Empty Messer mother of 2
“Stephanie’s stories are like talking with an old friend who finishes your sentences for you! Her humor is so relatable, and her practical view of empty nesting is peerless! You will love the “mess-ages” found in Empty Mess.”
~ Summer R. Empty Messer mother of 5, Gigi of 12
“Empty Mess is an engaging, thought provoking, entertaining mix!!! On her quest for answers of how to live a meaningful life, Stephanie shares experiences…both pleasant and not so…then she examines reactions…both pleasant and not so…which then inspires me to consider my choices in life!”
~ Gayle Ann
Stephanie Mason-Teague and Empty Mess are touring and hosting readings throughout Florida.
Contact her today to set up a time to feature her in your location! stephanie@emptymess.com
find Stephanie's book on Amazon,
and in local bookstores