Sunday Stealing...My Life According to

To begin with, I am super, duper proud of D! He is kicking butt at work. His swagger is back. And I am very proud of this man and all of his hard work. If people only knew how hard he works. Right now, we are on our way to some tropical paradise. I still don't know where we are going. D is very good at keeping secrets. To pass a little time on the airplane, here is this week's addition of Sunday Stealing.

XOXO

♥D


-Are you a male or female? Female

-Describe yourself. If you see me, I am short. Just 5'0" tall. And normal is shape and size. I have long brown hair and brown eyes. My skin is also very light. As a person, I am pretty easy going in general. I like lists and organization. So much so, that our closets resemble stores. I am also a creative person. I thrive when I craft. In general, I am a loving, caring, and thoughtful person. I like to really treat every person and detail with as much love and respect as I can.

-How do you feel right now? Extremely excited!

-If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I would go to Italy. I want to see the beautiful place where my grandma is from.

-Your favorite form of transportation. Generally, I just fly and travel in cars. But I think there is some sort of romantic notion about trains floating around in my head. It might have something to do with my love of things past.

-Describe Your Morning Routine. Every morning is unique and different. Just depending on the day, where I am working, and what I have to get done. But usually it includes me hiding from the sun and the alarm. Then stumbling about in a very organized fashion, until I somehow make it out the door!

-Your best friend is. That is hard. I have a few. But my very best friend is D.

-What's the weather like? It rained off and on all night. Now, all I see is clouds.

-Pet Peeve? A disorganized closet. Or a dirty refrigerator. I know I am strange.

-If your life was a TV show, what would it be called. Organized Chaos. Need I say more? My life is in constant chaos...on a strict schedule!

-Your relationship. I'm assuming you mean my relationship status. Happily taken and very much in love!

-Your Fear. I fear failure. And being alone in life.

-What is the best advice you have to give? Everything in life is hard. You learn from your struggles, hardships, and failures. In the end, your hard work pays off.

-If you could change your name, you would change it to? Sophia. I have always liked that name. And it is much more ethnic than mine!

-What do you say when you are frustrated? Mother of God! I don't know why. But I do. Then I ask God to give me wisdom and patience to get through whatever I am frustrated at.

-Thought for the day. God is great. Life is good. And my family really is slightly crazy!

-How you would like to die? Peacefully while I sleep.

-Your soul's present condition. Very good actually. But God has a way of making that happen when you need it most. You just need to believe.

-Your motto. "If you are going through hell, keep going." ~Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

Missing My Family

There are days when I really miss my family. Today is one of them. Not so much because I am missing my niece's 1st birthday party. But because I miss these family get-togethers. When I was younger and had to go to 2-3 family parties a week, I hated it. But I didn't appreciate them for what they were. Time with family.

I am not particularly close to my little niece. In reality, I have seen her twice in 1 year. And I am not particularly close to my brother. We are almost 30 years apart in age. And he just wasn't around a whole lot when I was growing up. When I was under 5, yeah. But I don't remember spending much time with him since I was 5.

But I miss just being home sometimes. Seeing my family. Enjoying laughs and good times. I miss the silliness of the kids. The amazing food. And all the familiar faces. We are not your normal or typical family by any means. We are not the closest and most loving. But we are family. And there are just certain days that I miss them.

XOXO

♥D

Lucky Man...I Am

This morning, I would have preferred pulling ♥D just that much closer and going back to sleep. Instead, she in her own magical way, got me to wake up. As I lay there dying, and trying to sleep just a few more minutes, ♥D was happily making me breakfast. I am a lucky man. She even managed to get me out the door on time. A task that is too much for 5 of my employees.

♥D loves me whole heartily for me. Not the name, fame, or money. But for the man I am at the end of the day. She takes amazing care of me. No matter what. She can have a god awful day, and when I walk in the door, she is there with a big smile. Waiting to kiss me.

In my life, I have never felt lucky. I have felt burdened and alone most of the time. Until I met ♥D. She adds to my life all the things that were missing. Things that I never knew I wanted in life. Until she filled those empty spaces. Today I was even surprised with homemade brownies and lemonade for a snack. No reason at all, just because ♥D is ♥D. I thank God every single day for sending her to me. D

Thursday Thunks

Is it already Thursday? Here is my Thursday Thunks. D

1. Your thoughts on hunting? What kind of thoughts do you want me to have? I like to hunt. Go every damn year with my buddies and family. Just a damn good time.

2. Swine Flu vaccine... will you get it? Who the hell knows. Just live life and don't be a damn freak about it. Besides, if I get it, ♥D will take care of me.

3. What is one job/profession that you think there are just too many of? You don't want me to answer this. I'm going to go with Tabloid Reporters or Wall Street Thieves.

4. I want to go on a diet, what advice will you offer me? Throw everything away at home. Only bring in the stuff you are supposed to eat. Throw away all the take-out menus, erase the numbers from your phone, and take a new route home/work/wherever you go.

5. You are going out on a date with someone for the very first time. When you get into their car, you see a box of condoms on the floor. What do you do? Why would I be in HER car? I'd think she is prepared for anything. I wonder if they teach that in the Girl Scouts. What do I do? What do I do with ♥D? Smile and lean in for a kiss.

6. Name something in your bathroom that shouldn't be there. A book. A radio. My OJ glass. I need to clean up after myself more.

7. What was your Kindergarten teacher like? Caring and excited about everything. Always wanting to teach us about the color of the sky, some letter, or a new way to play. Crazy damn kids we were!

8. What kind of oil do you use when you cook? Whatever is there. ♥D buys olive oil and grape seed oil. Sometimes we have vegetable oil. WTF is grape seed oil?

9. If someone takes an unflattering picture of you and posts it online, do you beg them to take it down or do you laugh at yourself with everyone else? I usually don't see it. I don't really care. But I will laugh if it is funny. I got a sense of humor people.

10. What brand of dish washing soap do you use? Again, ♥D does the shopping. I think we have Dawn. It is blue. And cleans. That's all I know.

Crazy Day!

This is one of those days that I just wonder about. I am in Baltimore, MD working. Wanting desperately to be at home. Oh, and I am eating a Lean Cuisine 4 Cheese Pizza for lunch. Because it is already lunchtime. Does that tell you that I have been at work forever already?

D is going to be in DC today. I am going to meet him. Hopefully on time...depending on the airport. You can never really estimate the things that happen at the airport. Fingers crossed, we will get it all done though. Then we will go back home this evening...all just to get ready to travel again tomorrow.

I am also very grateful that I work with amazing people. Miss A sent me a gift today. A crochet bag, hooks, and cotton yarn. She never has to do things for me. But she always does. So in the midst of my crazy day...when I started at 1AM, taking a total of 6 flights...I have a bit of whimsy to help me relax.

XOXO

♥D

Dirty Dancing

♥D generally makes me laugh. She just has her own way of doing things. And I should never be too surprised when it comes to her. ♥D just moves to the beat of her own drum. All the time!

Our cleaning lady has this week off. She is traveling to visit her family. I am not worried like I normally would be. ♥D does a good job of keeping everything together. She is a little OCD and I think that she actually does a better job than our cleaning lady. No, really she does.

Today when I got home, I just had to pull up a chair and watch what was going on. ♥D had the soundtrack to Dirty Dancing blasting in the background. She was singing and dancing around the house. All while cleaning. Did I mention....♥D was in one of my T-shirts, panties, and socks. Can you say I hit the jackpot? And she hadn't realized I had gotten home.

I found out later, it was also laundry day. Seems like ♥D ran out of clothes. But in reality, that is how ♥D cleans. She usually has a pair of shorts on . But she dances around the house. All I can really say is, Thank goodness the girls were with my mom. Because there is something irresistible about a woman dancing to Dirty Dancing in my t-shirt. I am a lucky man! D

6 Days

It is almost time for our vacation. And I honestly cannot wait! So much so, that I packed today. I never pack early. Ever! I am usually the one that is packing minutes before we leave for the airport. Trying desperately to get everything into my suitcase. And trying to remember what exactly I need while I am gone.

But today, I packed our bags. And we are all set to go. Bags, clothes, some stuff to keep us entertained, anything that we might need, and all that good stuff. I just need to relax and wait until Sunday morning. It seems like a million days away...instead of just 6 short days. Maybe I am overly excited because I don't know where we are going.

D is in need of this vacation. Probably more than myself. He just needs some time away from this pressure cooker we call life. Away from his work and all of this. I on the other hand, need this vacay to just keep my sanity. But we are both looking forward to it. After we get back, we will be all work and business until the middle of November. But we are not thinking about that right now. We are 6 days away from the sun and sand. That is all that is on our minds!

XOXO

♥D

A Good Day at Work

It has been a long time since I have been able to say that. But today, I had a really good day at work. One that I am very proud of. My guys came through. I worked my ass off. And we reaped some of those benefits today. It is nice to get something back for all the hard work. A little taste of the high life. Next week, I am looking for more of the same. D

Sunday Stealing...Because I Don't Know What to Blog About

This has been one of those crazy weeks. One that I have no real explanation for. Other than I really thought that I would go crazy on Friday. But things are somewhat going better. And all I can do, is continue to hope for the best.

On a better note, D is excited about today. And his excitement is rubbing off. I think things are going to go well today. He deserves all the best. And I am definitely his biggest cheerleader. Fingers crossed, things are going to be positive today.

And without further ado, here are this week's Sunday Stealing. Enjoy! And don't forget to link your answers here so I can read them!

XOXO

♥D


Question 1: Who do you think is the hottest movie star? Hands down, Clark Gable!

Question 2: Apart from your house and your car, what is the most expensive thing you have ever bought? By far, my violin!

Question 3: What is your most treasured memory? Sitting on the front porch with mi abuelita.

Question 4: What is the best gift you’ve ever received as a child? My Nanie (grandma) made me some dolls when I was little. I still have them! And I treasure them.

Question 5: What is the biggest mistake you’ve ever made? Going to college. I don't think my heart has ever really been in it. But I was expected to, so I did.

Question 6: Give four words to describe yourself. Crafty, Loving, Fun, and OCD.

Question 7: What was your highlight or lowlight of 2008? My highlight of 2008 would definitely be me and D beginning to date. He was sent to me at the perfect time. When I needed him most!

Question 8: What was your most embarrassing moment? Most embarrassing moment of 2008...the day my pants kept falling down. It was a bad day. A day that my scrubs would not stay on...or the pants I had on that day!

Question 9: Tell something not generally known about yourself. I write for a local newspaper back home. I use a pen name. And it is something that I enjoy very much!

Question 10: If you were a comic strip/cartoon character, who would you be? Hands down, Wonder Woman!

Another One

In the win column for us. Work has not been the best. Heck, professionally speaking, this year has left a lot to be desired. But ♥D has taught me not to sit and get lost in all that negativity. Tonight, the team pulled it from who knows where. But we can put another one in the win column. Tomorrow for me, it looks up as well. I am looking for good things tomorrow. D

A Goddaughter on the Way

One of the most amazing things in life, are beautiful and healthy babies. I have the honor of having 3 Goddaughters. These are the most beautiful little girls that anyone could have the pleasure of knowing.

My friends asked me a while back to be their baby's Godmother. I was over the moon with excitement. Well, they found out recently that the baby is a girl. She is due in November and I am so excited that I can barely contain it!

They have also asked me to decorate the nursery for them. I did it for their 1st baby. I have been searching on-line for the perfect fabric. But cannot find it. I think I will have to wait to go to the fabric store. But at least I am working on a crochet blanket for the precious baby.

I also need to meet with the Godfather. We need to decide on the baby's middle name. I don't even know the Godfather. And we are literally 1000's of miles apart. Maybe we should try webcams or the phone. It could be easier. And maybe make this go a little quicker.

Nevertheless, I am so excited for November to come. A new baby has a way of putting life back into perspective for me. I can now get lost in ways to spoil the baby that I am already in love with.

XOXO

♥D

Dealing the Best Way I Know How

D doesn't understand. My parents don't understand. And at some point, not even I understand. BUT I AM DEALING THE BEST WAY I KNOW HOW!

There are definitely some days when I don't know which way is up. Or if I will sincerely make it through the day. Today was one of those. I think I had a panic attack. Or at least had trouble breathing as I stressed about money and school for hours. My parents called to talk to me. And I tried to explain that I just cannot come up with all the money for tuition, books, my internship, insurance, and supplies. But I seemed to not be getting anywhere with them.

But I tried to pull it together before D got back. This is not something he needs to deal with. Especially as he is preparing for this weekend. But he rolled in. All happy and ready to relax after a hard day at work. My eyes were blood shot, I was still struggling to catch my breath, and I was sitting in the corner, in a ball.

These are the hard times. The times in my life when I am not sure why I do this. Or why in the world I let people do this to me. Or if in the end, is it all worth it? I don't know. I really don't. But there is something about D, that makes even these bad things, somewhat bearable. In one quick swoop, he collected me into his arms. And I never felt safer.

So maybe not everything is fixed. But I do feel better. D has a way of doing that. Money problems will plague me until I either finish school or leave it. But at the end of the day, there is more to life than money, school, and worries.

XOXO

♥D

Thursday Thunks

Welcome to another addition of Thursday Thunks. D

1. Hypothetical question- you are in a building with famous works of art, old manuscripts of famous novels, and original sheet music from famous composers. The building is on fire and looks to be completely destroyed. Do you grab any of the famous works before fleeing, and if so what? The music. I only read in the bathroom or when forced to at work. Old art is weird. But music is always good.

2. In August 1969, the Manson family went on a 2 night killing spree. Do you think 40 years later they have paid for their crimes? Not even close. Try another 140 years.

3. Power Outage! What's the longest you have been without power? About a day. But I don't mind so much when I have a power outage now. ♥D keeps me entertained...

4. Just bought a new tazer gun. Will you let it be tested it on you to see if it works, and how it feels to be tazered? Hell no! That's what I got buddies for. I'll test it on them.

5. A neighbor's mail was delivered to you. In it is a magazine not wrapped in plastic. Is it ok for you to flip through it before giving it to the neighbor? Do you tell them you looked through it? I'd look through it if it was interesting. Why would I tell them about it?

6. If I went through your purse/wallet right now, what all would I find in there? Money, credit cards, driver's license, pictures, a note from ♥D, and a key. Don't keep rubbers in there. It's not good for them. Ask S all about that shit!

7. Have you been living under a rock? I think so. But my life is no where near normal to begin with.

8. Tell us something crazy you did this week. Took ♥D on the boat at 3AM. Then had to dodge way too many people. WTF were they doing out at that hour?

Dealing

This just seems to be one of those weeks. And I don't even know where to begin. D left for DC earlier today and was not happy when he called me a while ago. His meeting was postponed until next week. They didn't let him know until he was ready to land. The man is not happy. He is actually considering not going next week. WHAT???

I am in the midst of trying to decide what to do for the next 4 months or so. I have no clue what I want to do. If it was really up to me, well I would just pack up the books and spend my time with D. Seriously, I could easily get used to making him breakfast every morning, keeping him on schedule, and traveling across the country with him.

But it is not up to me. And school is breathing down my back. More like my parents are breathing down my back. Or my dad is. So I need to get it together. I really don't have the money to do it right now. But that is never a good enough excuse for my dad. And I am trying to do it on my own without accumulating debt. My parents, I know, want to help. But they have a business and are doing their own thing. Anyway, I am 26 years old and need to do this on my own. Without leaning on people. So I won't ask them.

D is almost ready to shove the money down my throat. But like I told him, that is HIS MONEY. We are not married. And I wouldn't feel right asking or even letting him pay for my education. The house stuff, yeah he can pay for it. Or the traveling. But not things like school, crafts, or my love of makeup. Those are things that I need to deal with.

So I AM DEALING. I don't know if I am dealing well. But I am dealing. The best way I know how. By cleaning. And cleaning everything around me. D's nieces cannot believe how much I clean. Or how much I have been cooking. But them being around, it helps keep my mind off of things that I cannot control!

XOXO

♥D

Why?

Why is ♥D so stubborn. I know. People keep telling me. That is why I love her. She is independent, strong, and stubborn. But seriously speaking, the woman is stubborn as hell!

Right now, she needs money. For school nonetheless. It isn't for shopping. It is for her education. But she won't let me help her. WTF! Why do I bust my ass making money if I can't help the people I love? I have enough to support a small country.

♥D is the only person that I know, that would rather struggle than to take help. Even do without so that she knows, that she is the one, that accomplished whatever the hell she is doing. But sometimes, this woman pisses me off. I just wish she would let me help her to lighten the load every once in a while. It's not like she doesn't bust her ass around here. Or take good care of me. I just wish she would let me take care of her sometimes. D

A Case of the Monday Blues

Maybe it is that I am tired, hungry, and want to be home. Preferably asleep in our comfy bed. But today, I have an awful case of the Monday Blues! I think that I am missing my friends more than ever. Like 2 days was just a teaser. You know, here they are. There you go.

If it continues to rain...I just might scream. Yes, this is coming from a woman that otherwise loves the rain! But I am tired of it. Because it comes in buckets, and I am stuck in here. Not on a porch smelling the rain...enjoying the rain. And D is in a rather dreadful mood. He wants to be home. Not stuck here. His week is already shortened because of this rain. And now he has another unexpected trip on Wednesday. To a place that he doesn't want to go. But I will leave that up to him to tell you about.

And I can't sleep. But I need to be somewhat quiet so D can rest. So I'm sitting in the dark...blogging. Because my brain refuses to work. And I can't think of anything remotely interesting to write about. Oh yeah, my deadline is Wednesday at 8AM. I have 1 of 10 articles written. And I have ZERO ideas! I'm praying for some miracles here. Like the rain stopping long enough for D to finish his work. For some magic to happen in my brain. And for something, somewhat edible to fall into my lap right now. That's it. Well, maybe some sleep too!

XOXO

♥D

Sunday Stealing...Then and Now

Well, I am exhausted! The wedding was amazing. And I just loved getting together with my old friends. It has seemed like such a long time since we have all been together. The girls and I had an enjoyable day on Friday. We got our nails done...and our toesies painted. But yesterday was the icing on the cake!

I'm back with D. It was a long flight and I slept the whole way! Only to get here and be stuck in the rain. Yes, we are stuck in the rain for the second weekend in a row! Oh my! I don't feel like thinking. All I want to do is sleep. So here is my Sunday Stealing. Enjoy!

XOXO

♥D


Then: August 1999

1. Age: 16 and a junior in high school.

2. Romantic Status: As single as they come!

3. Occupation: A student and cheerleader by day...a musician by night.

4. Fun night out: Anything having to do with me playing music or cheering at a game. Life was simple then.

5. My BFFs: Buda, Enzo, and Brenda.

6. I spent way too much time: Being a cheerleader and working out. There was so much more that I could have done!

7. I spent not enough time: Figuring out who I was or what I wanted.

8. I wanted to be when I grew up: I wasn't completely sure. But I was leaning towards a musician and a music teacher.

9. Biggest concern: I'm not going to lie. It was probably some cheerleading competition.

10. What my biggest concern should have been: Preparing for life after high school. What I really wanted to do with my life.

11. Where did I live: At home with my parents.

12. Dumbest thing I did that year: Honestly, I don't know. Probably something with Enzo. We were always getting into some kind of trouble. It didn't matter that he lived on the other side of the country.

13. If I could go back now and talk to myself I would say: There are more important things in life. Start thinking about what you want out of your life. And enjoy these moments. You can't ever get them back. Your life right now, is good.

14. Picture of me then: Probably in a cheerleading uniform or cotton shorts. It was like my entire wardrobe for 4 years!


Now: August 2009

1. Age: 26, and not much wiser. I'm in college now.

2. Romantic Status: Happily in love and taken!

3. Occupation: College student, intern, bookkeeper, musician, and free-lance writer.

4. Fun night out: Dinner with friends. Maybe some shopping. Or dancing. It just depends. Depends on my mood and the people.

5. My BFFs: D, Buda, Enzo, J, Manders, Hills, Gabi, Sam, and Mayu.

6. I spend way too much time: Worrying about money!

7. I spend not enough time: Thinking about myself.

8. I want to be when I grow up: A mom and wife. That's it. Plain and simple.

9. Biggest concern: Money...college is a close second...health is third.

10. What my biggest concern should be: Finishing college and getting a career.

11. Where do I live: In a million different places!

12. Dumbest thing I have done this year: Constantly fighting with my Dad over money and school.

13. What I think I would say to myself in 10 years: Life wasn't so bad. You made it through all of that. And you are a stronger person for it!


Summary:

1. What do I miss most from 1999: Being carefree. I didn't have many responsibilities and never realized it. My job was just to enjoy life.

2. What do I miss least from 1999: Not being free and able to be myself.

3. What have I accomplished in 10 years that I am most proud of: That's a tough question. I'm proud that I have a home. And that I have accomplished a lot academically...and with my internship.

4. What have I NOT accomplished in 10 years that I wish I had: Finishing college and having a good paying job.

Wasting Time

Really. I am bored. This rain is never going to stop. I'm almost positive of that fact right there folks.

♥D is partying the night away. At least I think so. Her friends got married this afternoon. ♥D was in the wedding. I am glad that she got to go home. That she got to spend time with her friends. ♥D has needed that for a while now. Life has been unfair to her lately. She just needs a break. Some good times with her friends.

But I am bored. A bit miserable. Listening to the rain pound down around me. I've been eating pretty crappy food this weekend. Because I have been lazy and refuse to cook. I haven't worked out since Thurs. I can already tell that I am going to be dying next week. Sometimes you just have to suck it up and deal. This is going to be one of those weeks with the trainer.

Wasting time. I have done a good job of that this evening. Playing video games. Eating. Goofing on the internet. Hanging out with the guys. We can't get into too much trouble. T is as depressed as they come. H is all that is on his brain. The rain keeps pounding down. That is our "Crazy Saturday Night." Sunday should be better. D

Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone

Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone

Artist: Marvin Gaye

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.

It's not warm when she's away.

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.

And she's always gone too long.

Anytime she goes away.

Wonder this time where she's gone.

Wonder if she's gone to stay.

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.

And this house just ain't no home.

Anytime she goes away.

I know x 16

Gotta leave the young thing alone

There ain't no sunshine when she's gone

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.

Only darkness every day.

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.

And this house just ain't no home.

Anytime she goes away.

Anytime she goes away.

Anytime she goes away.

Anytime she goes away.

The first time ♥D and I spent time away from each other, I heard this song. I heard it 5X's on the radio in 1 hr. Now every time we spend a good period of time away from one another, I think about this song. It might sound crazy, but this song tells the story of how I feel. There really is no sunshine in my life when ♥D is not around. Even if we are apart for just 3 days, it feels like lifetimes.

1 day is too long to be away from ♥D. I know that there are times when we have to be apart. But life is just not the same without her. Life isn't as fun or happy. Food doesn't taste the same. Music doesn't sound the same. And with the way my career has been going, time away from ♥D can feel like a punishment. Counting the days until my sunshine returns. D

Happy Friday!

I am in full party swing here! I got home safely yesterday evening. I picked up my dress for the wedding. To find my worst fear was confirmed. My dress was too big! But C got to work the minute we got to my house. And she fixed it! It took her about 3 hours total. But it is ready for wedding day.

We also made it to dinner at the G's house. That was so much fun! I got to reconnect with friends that I haven't seen in a long while. And I got to spend some much needed time with the itty bitties. I have missed my goddaughters so much! I hadn't realized how much until I was there with them. Congrats to the G's and the T's! Both couples are expecting babies in March 2010. What fun news!

I stayed up real late...or I should say, until early this morning. I got so much done. I cleaned my house from top to bottom. And I got started on the food. I did most of the baking while C was fixing my dress. Then I moved on to decorations and getting all the other "Special Details" in order. We did a lot of shopping before dinner. So we have all of our supplies.

And this morning I got up bright and early. I've been working on all the food. And getting everything in it's place. I hope A likes everything. She is a very important person in my life. And this is an important time in her life. M is on her way to get her stuff set up. She is doing every one's hair and makeup tomorrow. But today, she is doing all of our manicures and pedicures. Bless her soul!

I need to get going though. There is still so much to do. I need to decorate the cupcakes. And get the flowers in their place. The little details need to be completed and I need to finish cooking. And I only have 4 hours before everyone will be here. Have a Happy Friday!

XOXO

♥D

Thursday Thunks

I'm not really wanting to think much today. Therefore, I am doing the Thursday Thunks. Answering questions from another blog. I am traveling again. ♥D is probably home by now too. Gonna be a boring weekend. D

1. What the hell were you thinking? What was I thinking now? What the hell am I going to do until Sunday? The weekend is going to be boring as hell without ♥D.

2. The tornado sirens go off in your neighborhood - what do you do? Hell if I know. Probably stick ♥D in the basement bathtub. Get the animals in the closet there. Take a mattress and put it on top of the 2 of us. Damn. I need to come up with a better plan.

3. Give us a recipe. 2 Eggo hot waffles, some PB, a sliced banana and chocolate chips. Toast 2 waffles. Put PB on 1. Top with banana and chocolate chips. Cover with 2nd waffle. Smoosh together. Eat. It is good. The breakfast of champions.

4. It's the middle of the night, there isn't a car in sight and you are stuck at a red light that just won't change.... how long do you wait until you run it? Look around. 5 seconds. Go!

5. When was the last time you got all dressed up fancy-like? Where did you go? Dinner out with ♥D last week. It was a romantic night out.

6. Have you ever had a mole removed? No

7. Are you in an area of record highs or record lows for the temps this summer? Are you lucky and stuck in the middle where it's somewhat normal? Breaking records all over the damn place.

8. When was the last time you changed your furnace filter? Couldn't say.

9. What's your favorite type of frog? Bull frog

10. If you were to go on America's Got Talent, what would you do for your talent? (and choosing not to go is not an option....) Oh hell. I don't know. I could play the drums.

11. Have you ever been on a rooftop of a building? Plenty of times.

12. What is the first website you go to each day when you sit down at your computer, other than your email? ♥D's blog. Or the paper she writes for. Both are interesting AM reads.

Wedding on the Brain

I am in the air. On my way home to be in my friends' wedding. I am really excited! But also really stressed out. Last night, I should have gotten more stuff accomplished. But I didn't. Oh, well. I can't cry about it now. Life just got in the way. But I have my long list in hand.

I am praying that my dress fits when I pick it up. I am pretty sure that the shoes will fit. Come on. My foot has not grown. But the dress. I am a little worried. Because some of my clothes have been fitting a little loose lately. It's a good thing C is going to be around later. She already said if there needs to be adjustments made, we can do that tonight.

As soon as I land, I have so much to do. I have to pick up my dress and shoes. Then drive over an hour home. I'm hoping the traffic isn't too bad. Once in my town, I need to pick up flowers, go to Hobby Lobby, then the grocery store, Sally Beauty Supply, and Target. Oh, and I am supposed to have dinner at the G Family's house. Woo hoo! I get to see the precious girls! And all my friends. I am really excited to see my goddaughters! :O)

But I kind of feel bad about leaving this week. D has been a little mopey. He is trying to hide it. But hasn't done too good. It has just been a weird week around here. And our friends are going a little crazy. We have been stuck in the middle of all their nonsense. Poor D has to deal with them. At least he is leaving later today for work. It should get a little easier on him.

Maybe the guys and him will have some good "Guy Time" while I'm gone. I know that I am looking forward to some much needed "Girl Time" with my friends. I am sure D is in need of the same, good quality time with his friends. Here's to a good weekend! One that will make our hearts grow fonder!

XOXO

♥D

Making Her Feel at Home

H pretty much moved everything into her new house last Friday. But she hasn't unpacked. Unless you consider opening up a box of clothes and putting out some shampoo and soap unpacking. The movers got everything to her house, put up the furniture, and put the boxes in the right rooms. But H had not gotten past that stage in the move. So after work today, I went to help her out.

D was a good sport about it too! He brought dinner to us...pizza, salad, and sodas. D even ate with us and helped put the electronics together. After 2 hours, he left. I know he is feeling awkward about all of this. Being that T is one of his closest buddies. We are kinda stuck in the middle. But I stayed to help H.

We unpacked and put away all of her clothes. Except the stuff that has to be ironed. That is one chore that I am lucky to do for myself, much less my friend. We got things in their place...then realized we needed some more stuff. We hit the local Target and eventually the Wal-Mart. We bought 3 rugs, some throw pillows, bedding, towels, kitchen essentials, curtains, and some decorating odds and ends. Eventually we did some grocery shopping too!

I feel bad for my friend. She has never lived by herself. She didn't want to take stuff out of her and T's house. So she has ended up with D's old furniture and stuff. And honestly, my friend could not put a house together if her life depended on it. She also can't cook. So I made sure to buy her things that she could stick in the oven or microwave. Next week, I will go by and help her make a few things.

But I managed to decorate the house to at least feel comfortable and inviting. I put up shelves, pictures, and mirrors. I carefully placed candles around. We put everything in the kitchen together. I really tried to focus in there. Because H has no clue what she is supposed to have in a kitchen, or what things are used for. Now she has canisters filled with food, all the kitchen basics you might need, and an inviting area to begin cooking.

H's bedroom was another place that I wanted to really focus on. We put up the new bedding and curtains. I found a comfy chair to put in there too! We put a bunch of nice lamps and candles in there for good lighting. And just made it an oasis for her to recharge her batteries.

Although this is a tough time for everyone, I am trying to make it easier on our friends. Sometimes it is difficult. But we are all trying to be respectful of each others feelings. I wish that I could have done more, but I had to leave. I have a busy day tomorrow at work. And I have a day of traveling ahead. When I get back, I will check on my friend. And see if there is anything else I can do to make her comfortable.

XOXO

♥D

Feeling Your Pain

There are days when you just know your buddy is in pain. Today is one of those days. T is missing his wife. But he is lost in his own confusion of life. ♥D and I desperately want to fix our friends' lives. But how do you do that? My buddy spends his nights drinking, and his days working. Not a good combination. But the combination that is just allowing him to survive.

During lunch, my buddy was just falling apart. He knows when and where things went wrong in his marriage. I think he just doesn't know how to fix them. Divorce has crossed both of their minds. Neither is ready to really consider it. H moved out. T is refusing to go home. He moved back to his empty bachelor pad. Sleeping on a mattress. Eating pizza. What a sad life.

These are the things that scare ♥D and myself. Why rock the boat if it is steadily floating along? I know ♥D and I are a lot more connected and able to communicate. But we have both lived through various members of our family divorcing. Divorcing in horrible circumstances. Marriage is a gamble. And uncertain. But worth it in the end, if you do it with the right person. D

Wasn't So Bad

Earlier I posted about how bad my day was going. I forgot there was a sunny side to the day. We had a company lunch today. There are days when this life gets too complicated. Too full of stress. I forget to enjoy the little things. ♥D is good at reminding me of those good things in life. But this morning was one of those mornings that I just wanted to be away from it all.

When lunchtime rolled around, it was a good break in my day. The guys were real pumped about everything. You could not help being in a good mood. Those are the times when I am glad that I started this company. Moments like that make it all worth while. But there are times when I wish ♥D could be right by my side to enjoy in those good times. The day wasn't so bad after all. D

No Rest for the Wicked

No real rest this week. My weekend work ended on the bad side. Leaving a sour taste in my mouth. But I am past that. Unfortunately, we also had a delay getting back home. Yesterday evening,we finally made it back. Today I am back to work. Back to "Captain Death Wish" workouts. Back to healthy eating. ♥D is doing better than myself. I still haven't figured out her secrets to all that energy. All that drive. Today she is working in the AM. Then hanging out with my nieces in the PM.

This week is going to be a pain in the ass. I have meetings all day today. Tomorrow I have important things in the city. ♥D is flying to Boston for work. Thurs when I head to work, she is heading back west to her house. Her friends are getting married over the weekend. ♥D is in the wedding and hosting some type of lunch. She is running around trying to get that in order. I have to work out of town Thurs-Sun. ♥D is going to try and meet me Sun AM. I'm tired just thinking about it.

People just seem to be needing 1000 things today. I am in no mood. Why my signature is needed on every piece of paper leaving this place, still has me confused. Isn't that why we have all these employees? My trainer has called 5X's in 10 min. This could be a day that I lock the door, work, and get the hell outta here. D

Not Ready at All!

At some point in my life, I need to learn how to say "NO!" I still haven't learned. That is probably why I am completely stressed out right now. D and I always have schedules that usually hold 48 hours worth of work, and we are supposed to do it in 12 hours. Can you imagine that we each have a schedule like that? But that never seems like enough for myself.

My close friends are getting married on Saturday. So I am heading home. These are friends that I was super close to a few years ago. I am a musician, and there was a group of us that worked pretty much Thursday afternoon through late Sunday night. Each and every week, plus rehearsals and teaching some local kids. We spent so much time together, usually seeing each other every day. And most importantly, we are like family. A group of young adults, on their own, who are like a family. Most of us were in college at the time. Just trying to survive. And really depending on each othere. But the guys were like my big brothers. The kind of guys that I could completely depend on.

When my friends asked me to be in the wedding, I was so thrilled! They have been dating over 10 years. And were engaged about a year and a half ago. I am very excited. I get to see so many of my friends. It has been a while. Most of them have moved away to pursue a career in music. That alone is exciting. And like a crazy person, I have to work until Thursday morning. Then I am leaving in the afternoon.

When I get back home, I still have a HUGE list of things to do. I have to pick up my dress and shoes. And I am hoping the dress shop will still be open when I get into town. If not, I am in so much trouble! Because on Friday, before the rehearsal and all of that, I am hosting a bridal luncheon/bridal shower/get-together/bridal tea/pre-wedding spa day. Yeah, I kinda wonder why I agreed. Not that I don't love my friend, but because I have no time to prepare for it!

I am working all week. And honestly, I have to wait until I get there to shop. I have my list ready. And I have made a bunch of calls to order things or put them on hold for me. But it still has me stressed out! I have a whole vision of what I want this day to be like, but I don't know if I have the time to get it done. And because my house is an hour away from the wedding location and the dress shop, things have to go exactly as planned. I need to pick up my dress and shoes on Thursday because I won't have any time to on Friday. And I have to keep everyone on track on Friday. Because we can't be late to the rehearsal.

So I am keeping my fingers crossed. My list is by my side and all the calls have been made. I am just anxious to be going home. And anxious to see all of my friends. I just hope I have enough time to get everything done and still enjoy the wedding. For now, I need to get back to figuring out the details of my plan.

XOXO

♥D

Taking ♥D Out

Well, things didn't go as planned. We are here another day. With nothing to do tonight. So I decided to take ♥D out. On plan: A good dinner, maybe a moonlight drive, and who knows what else we could get into. But I figure since we are here another night, why not make the most of it and take this gorgeous lady out for some fun? I even decided to dress up. That right there tells you how much I love this woman. ♥D is getting ready. Something tells me that I am going to have to carry her to the car. She could be carried away by the falling downpour. D

Sunday Stealing...Because It's Still Raining

Hello readers!

It is still raining. Raining cats and dogs. It was nice last night when we were going to sleep. Not so much this morning, as D goes to work. You can literally see the water gushing all around us. The water is making it's own little rivers all the way around. I am usually a HUGE fan of rain. But not when D has to work. I'm hoping that it might stop in the next few hours.

So to pass the time, I am going to answer this week's Sunday Stealing. I hope you enjoy it. Maybe you could answer it too and leave me a comment with a link to your blog. I enjoy reading other people's answers too! Happy Sunday!

XOXO

♥D


My roommate and I once: Watched the entire series of Gilmore Girls because we were stuck at home. It had snowed 4 feet in just 6 hours. And we had nothing else to do!

Never in my life have I: Been drunk. I like to have fun. But I have never gotten drunk.

High school was: A crazy time in my life. I wish I had been more outgoing. And more confident.

When I’m nervous: I don't talk. Usually eat a lot. And look at the ground.

My hair: Is long and dark brown.

When I was 5: I was a genie for Halloween. My mom made my costume. And that is still my favorite Halloween costume!

When I turn my head left: I see the TV.

I should be: Doing something useful. Like writing an article. Or checking my e-mail.

By this time next year: Who knows what I will be doing!

My favorite aunt is: Auntie C...but she passed away almost 6 years ago. I really miss her!

I have a hard time understanding: Why I am here. And what my purpose in life is.

You know I like you if: I make eye contact...or hug you.

My ideal breakfast is: Multi-grain pancakes, with fresh fruit, and nuts.

If you visit my hometown: You will see a large river, hear mariachi music, and smell great food!

If you spend the night at my house: You will be treated like a queen or king! Sleep on a comfy bed. And have a delish breakfast in the morning.

The animal I would like to see flying besides birds: Would be elephants. Wouldn't that be something?

I shouldn't have been: Born...according to my siblings. That could have saved a lot of stress and problems. Oh well.

Last night I: Listened to the rain fall as I fell asleep.

A better name for me would be: Sophia...I think it is a pretty name.

I’ve been told I look like: An Italian Bambina. Or a Pinup Doll. Maybe even a Latina Bombshell. It just depends...

If I could have any car, it would be: A BMW...a black one.

A Bear, Deer, and Non-Stop Rain

This morning, I thought I would be attacked by a flying deer. They are everywhere. Coming from every direction. Tonight we saw a dead bear. On the side of the road. As we drove back from dinner. It was a damn big bear.

Now, the rain is back. Back in buckets. This weekend has been one for the books. One that I will be happy to end. I just have to get through work tomorrow. I hope the rain holds off until the evening. All we can do is be optimistic about it. That's it. We have seen the water pour down since earlier this afternoon. Making it's own river through the open field. Water gushing downward 2 feet deep.

The rain has been a good thing though. At least for ♥D and myself. We have gotten to spend some good quality time together. To take a couple of long drives. To have some good long conversations. To just learn more about one another. This has been a good weekend for us. D

Be Our Guest

Not everything got done this week. Apparently, they did not get all of our stuff here. But that was OK. Until this morning. When both D and I had to rinse the shampoo and body wash bottles to shower. Then I used the last of my deodorant. D got the last drop of toothpaste. And we ran out of food staples. So, I thought I would make the 20 minute trip out to Target for some supplies. Things to hold us over until Monday. Because for whatever reason, everything ran out this morning.

I was actually really excited about my adventure to Target for my shopping. I am a big fan of Target! You can ask all of my friends and family, and they will tell you how much I LOVE to shop at Target. I actually worked there a few years ago. But the stores are always so clean and stocked full. The employees are usually friendly and excited to help. Usually! Until today, when I needed some help. I couldn't find anyone to ask for help on the floor. So I walked to their "Guest Service" counter and the girl was both annoyed and unfriendly. So was the GSTL.

I was actually shocked. And after waiting for 30 minutes, I said forget about it. I just picked up a few things that we really needed. And headed for the checkout line. It wasn't so bad. The line was short. But I was pretty disappointed in my adventure. And had to make another stop at another store. I will not stop going to Target just because of this one day. But I will second guess my instinct to just stop by. I left Target on a "not so good foot" but I thought it was just because of the management. Apparently, it is more widespread than that.

After many, many bad experiences at Wal-Mart, I have stopped shopping there. I go once in a while when I can't find something that I really need. But I try to avoid Wal-Mart. I personally don't have tons and tons of money, but I am willing to spend a few cents more for my basics...if I get a good shopping experience. I sincerely hope that Target is headed back in that direction. Because I might just have to find some other place to shop. Hey Target Chiefs...get it together. Because I was not the only unpleased "guest." And I know how much you value your "Guests." When I worked at Target, I would always think about that song "Be Our Guest," because the service was just that good. I hope it returns.

XOXO

♥D