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

No Rest for the Wicked

Mondays are traditionally, our days off. ♥D and I decided a long time ago, that we needed one day off, together, a week. Mondays just fit the bill. Until this week.

I was bugged about my afternoon adventures today. Not because of what I have to do. That's actually gonna be pretty cool. But it's Monday. It's like asking a normal person, to go into work on a Sunday. You know what I mean? Damn, but I figured that the 1st half of my day, wouldn't be bothered. I could live with working the evening/night. It didn't sound too bad. That didn't work out. Much in thanks, to yesterday's rain.

With yesterday wasted, literally waiting out the rain, all work got moved to today. We're on a time crunch. Everyone is miserable. I've got a good team today. No one wants to work. Right now, we're mid flight. I'm the one trying to "cheer" everyone on. Isn't that hilarious?

Meanwhile, ♥D has gone back, to her home, in the SW. She went to throw a Baby Shower. And is staying until next week. Her family is having a Reunion next weekend. Since she doesn't see much of her family, we agreed, this would be the best time for her to be home.

How is she spending her week? It was supposed to be low key. Baby Shower yesterday. Helping her friend, get ready, for her baby all week. Taking it easy. Being a little lazy. And seeing friends. She needs a break. This was the best opportunity for her. I was happy. Even planning a trip out there midweek. Just to hang out for a day or so.

Plans hit the ceiling. Damn, we have no luck. Miss ♥D has been having issues with her home. For a while now. But since she lives with me 95% of the time, we really haven't pushed to fix a lot of these things. But the plumbing in her master bath, it's shot. And she woke up to a horrible surprise this AM. All this after an eventful evening.

Instead of kicking back all week. ♥D is now dealing with plumbing and construction issues. Not exactly as planned. But what can you do? It's life. My PR guy also jacked up, looks like I probably won't be west bound anytime soon. Pisses me off. Of all times, I know ♥D needs me right now. It's a damn good thing, that she is a strong woman.

A usually quiet day, in our neck of the woods, has become a headache. On all sides. Add in some unusual family drama, on both fronts, and I'm pretty sure that the lady and I, are both ready to hideout. It's just been that kind of day. Leading into that kind of a week. I've never looked forward to work, as much as I do right now. Because the sooner I dig into that, the closer I will be to next Monday. Our day off. Which, we're taking off. D

Our Weekend

So my Lady Love isn't feeling so great. Lots of things are going on. So I'm taking over blogging duties. 2 days in a row! Let's hope you don't get sick of me.

I do have to say this much, it's nice to have our good friend M back. Back on the road with us. He's definitely not fully recovered. But getting there. All M could talk about all week, was getting back on the road. I guess someone has missed, the circus life, that we live.

But it's nice. To have our buddy back on board. To celebrate so many of our friends this week. Shoot, I didn't realize how many people, were celebrating their birthday. But as usual, Miss ♥D has been on top of it. Presents thoughtful bought, and wrapped. A nice dinner planned for everyone. People, I've honestly hit the jackpot with my Lady Love.

I usually hate this place. Not because of my work. But more because of the weather. Damn, if there are 2 times of year, that I can bet on rain, it's when we're out here. But it just adds to the time I get to spend with Miss ♥D. In the condo, watching movies. It's a good life. I am a very blessed man.

Our hearts also go out to all the people of NC. What floods! I'm just happy that our loved ones are safe. We'll continue to pray for the well being of the people of NC. What a tragedy. Please keep them in your prayers. Damn, I hope you have a nice weekend. D

Our Kids.

We're getting ready. Right now. To head off, later today. It's technically Thursday. But ♥D and I still haven't made it to bed. We're taveling again, for work this time. ♥D's packing bags. I'm trying to get my crap together. And our pets are pissed off at us. They pretty much look like this.



Acting like spoiled children. Daring us to leave again. I'm getting the feeling, that we're gone too much. We just got back from our vacation. Now we're leaving again. They know it. They sense it. And they're daring us to leave them again. Like they've got something planned.

I have to work this weekend. But they don't care. I don't blame them. I think, we might have to make some time for them. Our biggest baby, one of our dogs, might be traveling with us. Since he won't leave Miss ♥D's side. Ya, I think they miss us. You know, they're our kids. D

Stand By Your Man

I'm almost positive, when I say this, we're both happy to see D's "Professional Year," come to an end. Well, pretty much, come to an end. It's been a tough year. In so many ways! He's taken it personally. Like if all the failures, were directly his fault. I've told him over and over, it's a team effort. And when something breaks down, or fails, the entire team needs to take responsibility.

With that said, I'm very proud of D. And all that he's accomplished. Like I said, it was a tough year. But he's had some outstanding days. Days that he should be very proud of. Because not many people, ever get the opportunity, to accomplish those same things.

As the traveling slows, and the "other" work begins, I'm pretty sure, we're both happy. Yes, we both enjoy D's job. And the traveling. But by this time of year, we're just happy to go home, get in our pjs, and crawl into bed. Yes, it's been an amazing year! But we're looking forward to some downtime. Through it all, I'll be right here, next to D. Standing proud. D, I'm so PROUD of you, and I LOVE YOU!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heading to Work

I might die before I get there. But I am going. Last night when I took ♥D to the hospital I started feeling bad. It has gotten worse. Man, I am sicker than a dog! Just prayin' for a miracle here. Soon I will be in my "office" and I have to work. No calling in sick.

♥D is still in the hospital. She gets out later today. I think she has decided to meet me for the weekend. I think she should stay home and rest. But she thinks differently. At least she can sleep here. We still have no answers. In a way, that worries me.

♥D is down because she had to change her plans to go home. But her health is more important. There will be other weeks to travel out west. Gonna go. This thing is getting worse. I need some rest. A miracle. Maybe a doctor or 2. Possibly some medicine. D

Finally!

For weeks...maybe longer...I have been trying...to get a hold...of a close friend of mine...from back home.

I don't know exactly what was going on, but I finally got to talk to her a few minutes ago. Seriously, it had been forever. I had called...and called...and called! My last bit of hope was to send her a note last week. OK, so it turned into a couple of notes. My friend J did good, he actually mailed them for me earlier this week.

Anyway, I got to talk to M. It was only for a few minutes. But hey, we talked. She is a very close friend of mine. Someone that I normally talk to 3-4 times a week. When I am home, I try to have lunch with her. At one point, we would have lunch together 4 times a week, if not more. We were in college...or at least I was. And life was simple. After my classes, I would meet her for lunch. And we would talk...and talk...and talk. Literally for hours!

But since summer started, well it has been almost impossible to talk. Until today. It was kinda our of the blue. But D decided to head off to get something...and I decided to call M. Things are good. We even planned to meet up for a "Girls' Day." An entire day of hanging out together next week. Everything from breakfast to shopping to lunch. I cannot wait!

XOXO

♥D

Going on a Vacay

We are going on vacation today! Woohoo!!! OK, we will be gone roughly a week and a half. All I can tell you is that we are going somewhere tropical. Yes, nice and warm. Lots of sun, clear water, and sand. I can already feel my feet in the sand...and we are only on the plane. :O)

We are going to enjoy the sun and the sea...

A few tropical sunsets...

Maybe even playing in the sand...

Oh yeah! We enjoyed a good breakfast with V and her fiance this morning. It was nice to just remember the good times at college. V, E, and myself were interns at the same hospital, in the town we went to college at. We were pretty hilarious! The song Unwritten was like our "Theme Song." It really did fit us at the time. V left for Dallas about 6 months after we initially started our internships. She graduated and had bigger dreams. That and she is originally from Texas.

E and I probably worked together another year. Then she graduated and got married. I was her maid of honor. They had a cool 50s type of wedding. 50s cars included! Then they moved to Florida. Her and her husband were in grad school there. They are actually thinking about moving back to our small college town. They miss it. And now E has a Master's Degree in Nutrition and her RD. Her husband has a PhD.

I think D loved hearing about the silly things we did back then. I am the youngest of the three of us, and definitely got picked on more. D liked hearing about the crazy things I used to get into at work. Especially the story of me breaking my finger when I worked at Hooter's. :O) It was a long time ago, I needed a job, and in a small town...you can't be picky!

And before I could leave town, I had to stop at this adorable stationary shop. I bought a bunch of notecards, pens, and stationary. All of which I didn't need. But it definitely brightened my day! I gotta go people...we are going on vacay!

XOXO

♥D

Back in Dallas

♥D and I are back in Dallas. If you read her post from yesterday, you know what happened. ♥D made it back to where I was working yesterday morning. She spent the day and most of the night sleeping. It was all good. She definitely needed it. ♥D's entire right hand side of her face is 3X's it's normal size. Her ear is as red as a can of Bud.

After the lackadaisical year that I am having. Last night did not surprise me. Work is just not going well. It's improving. But not nearly as fast as I need or want it to. This vacation is just what I need and want.

♥D had to attend the conference today. I thought why not? We headed out here late last night. I checked the entire room from top to bottom. Happy to say there is not an ant to be seen. I am a little sore from work. Thinking about a hot shower and a nap. We are going out to a nice dinner tonight.

I can almost guarentee that ♥D will want to at least go shopping at one store before we leave. She definitely has some connection with Dallas. I am thinking we might have breakfast with her college friend tomorrow. I actually enjoy those types of things. I get to hear great stories about ♥D and her life before I met her.

It is a little difficult to learn about the pre-relationship ♥D because of our relationship. Few people know about it. Especially on her side. A mutual buddy, J, gives some great insight. As frequently as I can, I try to convince a friend or 2 of hers to travel with us. It's just a nice change of pace. D

Attack of the Fire Ants

For the second time in less than two weeks, I was attacked by fire ants. No lie! The first part of July found me doing paperwork, in the middle of the night, at the hospital. We had a family bring in 3 small kids covered in fire ants. Yes, fire ants. The entire ER and PICU teams were called to assist. We thought we were covered and protected. But most of us were bitten pretty badly.

Have I mentioned? I am allergic to insect bites. Once I began to have trouble breathing, I was immediately taken off the case. All of a sudden...I became a patient too! After a shower and a few shots, I was feeling better. And I was sent home. Things had been going fairly well since then.

I have continued to take my medication. And honestly, it was going pretty well. Better than some of the doctors who were working that night. My friend and colleague, Dr. M was attacked in the "unmentionables." Poor man. And Dr. A was attacked on his bald head. Seriously, why would you bite someone on the head?

Then there was this trip to Dallas. I definitely did not see this one coming. I thought it would be a quick trip back and forth. And we were staying in a $500 a night hotel. Actually, it is one of the best hotels here...if not THE BEST. But I didn't know there has been a recent bug problem in Dallas. It's Texas after all. People you should expect BIG THINGS when you come to Texas.

In the middle of the night when I got here, the Bellhops were killing and cleaning up roaches outside. I didn't think much about it. Probably because I was exhausted! I went straight to my room and to bed.

I woke up around 3AM. And I swear, I could hear something burring in my ear. I could not sleep. I began to get ready for the day. Then I started to remember the Medical Mystery show D and I had watched a few weeks ago. The lady had a junebug stuck in her ear. They had to kill it, then pull it out. It was close to burring in her eardrum. I was freaking out!

By 4:15AM, when I met the doctors from the hospital I work at, I was going crazy! Dr. S looked in there, but he couldn't see anything. Are you serious? I can hear it. Dr. M was not a happy camper either! Apparently, he had ants in his room...fire ants. And they had attacked somewhere he would rather not talk about. He got a different room.

We got to the hospital by 4:30AM. I couldn't take it any more. Dr. S pulled some strings in the ER and I was in. The doctors looked, but couldn't see anything! I started to tell them about the hotel, Dr. M's fire ants, and they began to put it together. That and the entire right side of my face was swelling up!

Meanwhile, my friends and colleagues were in the conference. And I am laying on an ER bed all alone. It was something about those moments that made me feel very alone and very small. I thought about calling D, but I knew he had a big day today...he needed his rest. And this news would only worry him. So I lay there...thinking. The doctors finally trickled in some alcohol solution. And all at once, these fire ants came out of my ear. After doing this a couple of times, and me laying there forever...the doctors finally looked inside my ear.

Those pesky little critters bit my ear pretty badly inside...and my face on the outside. Once we knew what had happened, I called Dr. S's wife. She checked my room and found all these ants in my pillow. Yup, in my pillow. She looked through my things and packed them up. Making sure that no ants were with my things.

No more ants, my face is swollen, and I am now here at the hospital waiting. They are going to release me. And I am on my way out of town. Yeah, I am not going to the conference. In fact, I have already missed part of it. So I am supposed to rest and take some medicine. I will be back Sunday like planned. But for now, I am ready for some quality sleep...without the ants!

XOXO

♥D