With All This Rain...

One of the things, that I miss the most, with living on the East Coast, are the big rainstorms. Here in the Southwest, for almost 2 months, we get those late afternoon storms. The ones that instantly cool the summer heat. And add life to the desert. The storms that I grew to LOVE with all of my heart.



Yes, I'm a fan of all those late afternoon, and evening rains. I almost die with excitement, over rainy nights. And with all of these rains, another love of mine, pokes it's head out. Rain boots! Yes, I'm a big fan of the rain boots. Something about today, makes me want to run outside in my rain boots. Just 'cause I can. And because it just rained!

XOXO

♥D

Oh the Memories!

I must really like this topic. Because this is the 3rd time I type this up! Yes, thanks Blogger. For always making life a little tougher. But I'm not giving in. I'm fighting back! :)

Earlier this week, my friend and I start this 2 hour long convo. What about? All about Kool Aid! Yes, that sugary drink, that we all enjoyed as kids. :) In my family, it was all about the lime flavored Kool Aid. But I favored the more exotic flavors like black cherry, strawberry banana, and tropical punch. Yes, we were a Kool Aid family!

And this silly convo, lead to my friend and I, heading out to buy Kool Aid. Did I mention the ridiculous rainstorm? And how the streets were flooded. But we still went. And we returned with a HUGE supply of Kool Aid! It was delish! And even my friend's wife, she enjoyed the yummy sugary drink with us. We finished off 2 pitchers before dinner. :)



Do you remember these bad boys? Oh ya! My mom used to collect "Kool Aid points." She had a special jar,were she would put them. And we had 2 or 3 sets of these pitchers and cups. I might have also had a t-shirt, or 3! Yes, my mom still has some fun Kool Aid memorabilia. Too bad the Kool Aid company was sold to Kraft. A few years ago, all of these fun things, well, they went bye-bye!

I have so many fun memories that involved Kool Aid. Big Mason Jars filled to the top, on a hot summer day. Those ridiculous red 'stashes you'd get, after say, 2 glasses of Kool Aid. Making Kool Aid pops with my friends. All of these things, just make me smile!

But I do have a secret to share. When I was in 2nd or 3rd grade, it was the cool thing, to bring powdered Kool Aid to school. The pre-sweetened kind. We'd fill up a baggie, and sneak it to school. Yes, our entire grade! And at recess, we'd eat it. :) All you had to do, was cut a small hole in the corner of the bag. And suck. I probably ate 10 lbs of Kool Aid, that school year!

It's funny how one thing, brings back so many memories. I can still see the big cans (that my parents would buy at COSTCO) under our kitchen counters. In our house, we'd have Kool Aid 3 or 4 times a week. And honestly, since moving out of the house, I haven't really had Kool Aid. Like in years! So on this day, it was so nice, to enjoy a large glass, of my favorite sugary drink. :)

XOXO

♥D

New Goddaughter

Early Tuesday morning, my new Goddaughter was born. A beautiful baby girl. So healthy. And beautiful! She is just a gem. I was so honored to be in the Delivery Room. To get the chance to Welcome this sweet girl, into the World.

I've spent the last week, completely falling in love. Yes, this little girl has stolen my heart. She's made me totally rethink my life. And everything in it. New life can do that. And that is truly the miracle!

I'm going to spend the next few days, just loving her. And being helpful to the new parents. This is really a time for all of us, to celebrate new life. It's a new beginning for all of us. I'm so glad to be a part of this magical time. Now, it's time for me to go. And cover my new Goddaughter in kisses! :)

XOXO

♥D

When Love is Tough

I'm still feeling a little sad, and guilty, over leaving D. I know, logically, it's only for a few days. But I see my role, in our relationship, as the "supporter." I'm around to cheer him on, and to be there. To do the things for him, that he needs.

And when I'm not around, I feel insanely guilty! It might sound weird to some. But in our crazy, and very chaotic life, that's just the way it is. Plain and simple. He does so much for me, that I feel like I'm supposed to be there, doing for him as well.

I'm not joking when I say this, Sunday just broke my heart. All I wanted to do, was crawl back into bed. To be there for the man, that is always there for me. Talk about hard to do. How do you walk away from someone, that loves you that much? That does so much for you. And gives up so much, to just be with you. It was so hard! But of all the things that I've learned, in relationships, sometimes you just have to do things for you.

The look in his eyes, on Sunday morning, made me want to crawl back into bed. To cuddle with him. Right up until he had to go to work. There is nothing like feeling his arms, wrapped rightly around me. Knowing that he loves me so incredibly much. I wanted nothing more, than to crawl back into bed, get into my little "nook," and fall asleep to the beat of his heart.

But like I said, I've been in relationships were I've completely lost myself. Let the other person's life totally dictate mine. And it's tough. It's hard to not do that again. But it's the wrong way to go. So I held my ground. Put on my jacket, and battled the rain. I endured a morning of traveling. And guess what? It wasn't that bad.

I had an amazing time with my friends. We celebrate my Goddaughter. We caught up on each others' lives. We laughed. I enjoyed delish Mexican food again. Oh, how I've missed it! And when all that was done, smiles were permanently glued to our faces, and my heart overflowed with love...we headed to the park. To see my friends perform. It was an amazing concert!

As hard as it is, to be in this relationship, I wouldn't trade anything in the world for it. It's so hard, to be away from all of my family and friends. I miss them so terribly bad! And it's incredibly tough, to be away from everyone and everything, that I love so much. The culture, climate, food, shopping,and life in general. But I LOVE D. And I'm OK with being away from all of this. Just as long as I get to visit from time to time.

And I know, that these little trips are good for D and I as well. It's good that we spend a little time away from one another. It's good that our lives involve other people. And other things. That we have interests away from each other. Yes, it's good for us.

So I'm going to make the best of my week. I'm going indulge in all the yummy food, I'm going to love my Goddaughters even more, I'm going fix my home, visit my family, and enjoy life in the desert. Because sometimes, you just have to do that!

And next week, when I get to see D, I'm going to be over the moon! I'm going to enjoy our homecoming. And all that I've missed. I'm going to hug him a little harder. I'm going to enjoy the smell of his cologne. And the feel of his arms. Yes, I'm going to do all of that, and so much more!

Relationships are not easy. They require a lot of "push and pull," to make them successful. I'm so happy that I'm on this journey with D. A man that truly understands all of this. That loves me. And is willing to sacrifice a little, so that I can be happy too. Yes, this is a very good relationship. And D is an amazing man! I'm so lucky and blessed.

XOXO

♥D

The Help

Where to begin? I always have a tough time with these things. But let's just dig in. A while back, D's grandma gave me this book. Actually, she's so sweet! She bought a copy, for pretty much every female member of her family. Including D's mom and I. That was really generous of her!

Turns out, she read this book over 2 years ago! And she loved it. LOVED IT! So she was sharing it with all her family members. I was the last to receive the book. Not because she doesn't love me. But she had figured, being the bookworm that I am, that I had already read it. Wrong. And that night, before dinner was settled in our tummies, and dessert was on our plates, I had my very own copy.

I LOVED this book! In fact, I read 2 chapters on the way home. In the dark! D thought I was hilarious. And I stayed up, all night, to finish this book. It as that good. No lie! I as so into this book. So much of it, reminded me of my Auntie. Who I spent so much time with, growing up. And I miss so much, now that she's gone.



That was a couple of months ago. And I've read this book, 3 times since! Can you tell that I LOVE it? So when we heard about the movie, we planned a Girl's Day Out. Just to watch this movie. All of the females in the family.

This week, just happened to be when we watched it. And it was so good! Of course, it wasn't as good as the book. But it was still a very good movie. One I'd recommend. After reading the book, naturally. :)

And our day out was just amazing! We started with a yummy breakfast at grandma's house. Everyone pitched in. And we had a real Southern Delight! Then we went out for a little pampering. You know, hair, nails, and makeup. Then some shopping. Followed by a yummy lunch out. The amazing movie. And some dessert. We all headed to our house for a fun BBQ. The guys in the family, well they surprised us all! And they did all the cooking.

Yes, it was a very good day. With an amazing family! Something I'd never give back. I had so much fun. And I'd definitely recommend something like that, for anyone considering this movie. But remember, read the book first. You won't be disappointed!

XOXO

♥D

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good Change of Pace

Today was a good day. Well, at least so far. I had a good workout earlier. The kind that leaves you weak at the end. Where you know that tomorrow you are going to be moving slowly. But I enjoy the soreness after a good workout. It makes me feel like I really did something good. I also feel more energetic! There is something about a good workout that leaves you feeling good. I think it is because of all the sweating you do.

I am also trying to prepare for a party that I am hosting late next week. I can't buy a whole lot of the stuff right now. Because I am flying out to the location where the party will be. And I just can't see myself flying with a bunch of luggage, filled with wedding type decor and gifts. Until then, I am writing out a detailed list of things I need to buy. But I have been making some items for the party. The individual things that make these type of parties so special. I have also been making some bags for the girls. I want to fill them with some fun gifts and things to remember our "Girls' Day."

And I've been planning out the menu. It is going to be a day long, type of pre-wedding day, "Girls' Day." So I am thinking lots of different kinds of finger foods. I haven't decided if I am going to make a bunch of Tapas or just the regular party finger foods. I kind of want to talk to my friend before I make my decision. I would prefer Tapas, but it about the Bride, not me! I am really excited about everything though. It will be a good time for all of us.

Today I am also planning on going through my closet to see if I can get rid of anything around here. We have so much stuff! And I really do need to get rid of some of it. I have a basket of makeup that I really don't use. Some of my friends will really like that. I am also going through my closet to see what clothes I don't really use. I am thinking about donating a bunch of my old bridesmaids' dresses. Some of them are really cute. Like for a young girl going to a school dance. Because as gorgeous as they are, I will never wear them again. My friends have good taste, they are not your "typical" bridesmaids' dresses.

So, I am really busy. But it is the good kind of busy. The kind that makes me feel accomplished when I have finished everything. I need to pack for this weekend and next. Thank goodness we have some help. Because we also have lots of shopping that needs to be done. How can we already be out of shampoo again? And food? But we will get it all done!

XOXO

♥D

Girl Time

I spent a couple of hours with D's sister and nieces yesterday. It was so much fun! We ended up doing some really fun things. And it was like medicine for my soul. I am not joking!

First we went to this fun Antique/Thrift shop. We were actually on our way to go get ice cream. And I saw this cute little store front. I am a sucker when it comes to places like this. So I pulled up to the store. It was off of one of the smaller highways around here. Almost out of sight. And once inside, it was like a treasure box of things from our past!

The girls picked up some old Barbies, dolls, and cases for them. They were so thrilled about them! D's sister found a fun chair. It was so her! Cushy and soft. I found so much! I almost felt guilty about everything that I bought. ALMOST! I got 5 hats (from the 40s/50s), a 50s luggage set (train case, hat box, and suitcase), a handbag, a set of 50s turquoise mixing bowls (5 in the set) and 10 broaches. Yes, 10 broaches! I know. It seems like a lot. And it was A LOT! But I just couldn't help myself. To top it off, as I was paying for everything, we saw a stack of paper dolls and cookbooks. We couldn't resist and ended up taking all of them as well! In total, we only spent $71.35. That is including the chair! I almost felt like we were stealing all of these beautiful treasures!

Our fun didn't end there. No way! We headed to the ice cream shop. The girls got sundaes that were much bigger than themselves! Shh...don't tell their mom. She was at work! :O) D's sister settled for a chocolate milk shake. Let me tell you...it all looked so good. But I thought I shouldn't push it. And I settled for a popsicle. Not too bad.

We ended our adventures with a stop at the salon. Why? Because no Girls' Day is complete without some nail polish. The girls were just too excited to get their nails polished. They both picked the brightest pink at the salon. D's sister had the full manicure/pedicure special. Gorgeous French tips on her fingers and fun chunky pink glitter on her toes. I stuck with just polish...red on my toes and almost nude on my fingers.

It was a GREAT day! Something that I really needed. Actually, this could be one of my favorite days ever. Because it was about fun and family. I really do feel like I am part of D's family. They love me like I am their own daughter, granddaughter, sister, and auntie. Our day was not about how much money we spent, but about how much love we shared!

XOXO

♥D

We're on the Mend

The 2 of us are feeling better. Much better really. D is pretty much over whatever we had. I am getting there. Going to the doctor...it will do wonders for you. Really it does! The homemade soup, it was a gift from heaven. When I was little, my mom used to make a potato soup or veggie soup whenever I got sick. It always worked wonders! D's grandma, she made us chicken noodle soup yesterday. I think that alone helped us to feel better!

D is at work. This morning before he left, he was really happy. Something that he hasn't been...when it comes to work...in quite a LONG time. This is really good news! But D was almost glowing about going to a meeting. It was almost asking too much of me to not crack up laughing!

I have been going through the mail this morning. It is one of my favorite things to do. Really it is! L, probably my best friend ever, sent me a package from Boston. It is loaded with tons of fun trinkets and tidbits. He also sent the most amazing antique glass box. I am over the moon! And Little M...she made me a necklace at her summer camp. She is 3 and 1/2...the half is very important to her...and is going to her first summer day camp. She LOVES it. And decided to make me a necklace. The mail today...it is GREAT!

D's sister and nieces want to spend some "Girl Time" with me today. I am not 100% yet, but I think it will be fun. D worked hard to convince me to spend a couple of hours with them. He thinks it will make me feel better. And I cannot disagree! I would love to see those little sweethearts again. It seems like it has been a while since we have spent some good quality time together.

That's pretty much all that is going on from our part of the woods. Seriously, that is it. The fur babies are happy. D is happy and healthy. The mail was great today! I'm feeling better. And we are home for a few days!

XOXO

♥D

A Survey of Sorts

I'm not feeling good today. I think I have whatever D has/had. I'm the same grey color that D has been for days. With the same awful fever! I think it is the stomach flu or something like that. I won't give you all the awful details, but it is bad! I couldn't sleep last night because of this fever. So I got up and went to sit outside. Yes, I did! All bundled up in blankets, and drinking 7UP.

So folks, I am not really going to blog today. More like answer a survey thing that my friend sent me. Then I am going to go curl up on the couch...and sleep. Because D is off to work. And I don't feel well. I hope that we get home relatively early.

XOXO

♥D

1. I love.​.​.​sleeping outside, on a rainy night.
2. Right now I want...to feel better. No, really I am tired of being sick!
3. I feel like...a truck just ran me over. Then left me to die in the middle of the desert...with no water!
4. I hate it when...the night is not long enough and the morning comes to soon.
5. I fear...that I won't ever find my niche in the world.
6. I'm lonely without.​.​.​D. Enough said.
7. I need...to feel better.
8. Today I...will sleep until D is ready to go home.
9. Tomorrow I'm...going to the doctor. It is so annoying. But it is something I have to do.
10. I just...need to figure out which way I am going in life.
11. I want to meet...me 10 years from now.
12. I'm hungry for...absolutely nothing at all!
13. I love it when...I wake up feeling like the pressure has been lifted, even for just 5 minutes.
14. I'm afraid of...the future. It seems a little scary. But I am ready for it.
15. I'm listening to...the TV. The Klondike commercial is on.
16. I'm wearing.​.​.​pajamas and long socks.
17. I wish I was in...my bed at home.
18. I'm craving.​.​.​a tall glass of 7UP. It seems to be the only thing working today.
19. I want to get...a new sewing machine or computer. Either would make me really happy!
20. I can...make it. I really can!
21. I can't...do it all alone. Even if I think I can. Even if I say I can.
22. I have...the love of my man to help me out.
23. I haven't...talked to my friends back home in forever!
24. I'm nervous to...decide on my future when it comes to school and work.
25. My Mom thinks I'm...never going to have kids.
26. My Dad thinks I'm...a rock that never crumbles. He is wrong.
27. I think...life is pretty good right now. Considering my health and the current state of his career.
28. I'm happy when...I'm in D's arms and the world is a million miles away.
29. I'm sad when...I can't be at D's side.
30. I like eating...fruit and ice cream.
31. I hate eating...liver and onions.
32. I love watching...live performances. Be it musical concerts or stage plays.
33. I love listening to...songs that invoke my soul.
34. I like playing...pretend. With D, life sometimes feels like we are playing pretend when I was 35. I have my price charming and our own castle.
36. I hate waking up to...loud noises. They make me wake up too fast and forget the small details of my amazing dreams.
37. I can see...a fork in my road. And I need to start making decisions now.
38. I'm glad that...I found D.
39. I'm disappointed that...my siblings and I aren't closer.
40. I look like...death becomes her. Really I do!
41. I wish I looked like...Sam from GH. She is gorgeous!