A Fun Surprise

Do you see how cute and fun this pillow is? I found this picture on Pinterest. And instantly fell in love! One of those things, that made me save it on my computer. Then I showed it to D. And asked him how he liked it.

Usually, our tastes are slightly different. I like a little more frills, ruffles, and girly touches. D is more of a straight shooter. Likes clean lines. More masculine furniture. A bit more modern. But somewhere along the way, we've married the 2 styles. And our new house, reflects this. And better yet, it works incredibly well for us!

So when D liked this pillow, I got so excited! You see, we have a Sun Room. That is so fun. It's painted a deep gray color, with fluffy white couches, and a ton of green plants. An entire wall, is nothing but windows. I've found the funnest accessories for this room. Everything is hot pink or bright orange. It's a fun place to be. To sit and read. Or enjoy lunch. A place where I can sit and just be.

My plan, is to make some of these pillows. With striped pillows, just like these ones. And hot pink and bright orange flowers. The perfect match to our room. A fun accessory, to our fluffy white couch. And as D put it, "adding some fun, to our already funky room."

I find that it's always tough, to marry the things we love. But it can be done. Maybe the interior design is more masculine, but I can add feminine touches. Or the room is feminine, but done in a color scheme, that is more masculine. Yes, it can be done. And I'm glad that D likes some of my "more fun" ideas. :)

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

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

Stealing Sunday...The Nasty 31 Meme, Part 2

Another rainy Sunday. Usually, I'd be all about it. I'm a "Lover of Rain." Except, I'm traveling today. Flying across the country. And D, he's got to work. Let's just say, the rain makes that almost impossible. So as much as we know, that we need the rain, I wish that it would have waited until tomorrow.

My heart also broke as I left this morning. Way before the sun ever came up. I didn't want to wake up D. But when I went to kiss him goodbye, he woke up. Gave me that look that said, "Please come back to bed. Go back to sleep. You really don't have to go." I almost, ALMOST, got back into that warm bed. But I resisted. And headed to the airport.

Yes, I'm on my way home. To co-host a Baby Shower, for a very good friend of mine. I'm going to be the baby's Godmother. And well, this was just too important to miss. Hopefully, if everything goes as planned, I'll be seeing D on Tuesday. Until then, I'm going to try and enjoy this traveling. And get my Sunday Stealing done. Happy Sunday!

XOXO

♥D

16. What's the longest shift that you worked at a job? 3 1/2 days, I work at a hospital...

17. What was the last concert that you attended? Martina McBride

18. What the last DVD (or Blu Ray, of course) movie that you watched? Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

19. How did you like the film? It's one of my favorites. :)

20. What comedian do you love? That's tough. I really like comedians. But I'm going to have to stick with George Lopez.

21. Do you ever sleep in the nude? No

22. Have you ever had a long distance relationship? Yes

23. What do you think of astrology? I like to read about it. I believe that it somewhat dictates our lives and personalities. But like everything else, you can go too far.

24. What's you're favorite lyric quote from a song? "Well, my daddy's going to straighten you out like a piece of wire, like a piece of wire."

25. Tell us something random about yourself. I'm obsessive when it comes to dental hygiene. I brush my teeth at least 5 times a day. And floss twice. Every 6 months, I go to the Dentist. Oh, I LOVE going to the Dentist!

26. Have ever attended a theme party? If yes, do tell. A few. I work in entertainment. So I get invited to some fun events, when I'm not working. But my favorite was an old Wild West party. We dressed up, had themed meals, and activities. So much fun! It was even at an Old Wild West Town. Abandoned, but cleaned up.

27. What is your favorite thing about winter? Watching the snow fall. While sitting by a fire. And enjoying some yummy hot chocolate. Oh how I LOVE Winter. Winter, winter, where are you?

28. What was the name of your first pet? Ralph...he was a dog.

29. What have you done so far this weekend? Traveled a lot! Gone on 2 dates with D. Got a lot of crafting, baking, and cooking done. And watched some old movies. It's been a crazy weekend. But a good one!

30. Has your humor ever been called “sick”? Yes

31. If you could have one thing, what would it be? Love...what else could you ask for?

Steady As She Rose

So do you remember, when I told you about OPI's Pirates of the Caribbean Collection? Yes, it's pure love! But this color, Steady As She Rose, it's a total must have! I'm not even joking. I'm not sure what it is, but it's life changing. Yes, a nail polish can be life changing. And this one is just that.



If there is any nail polish, that I'd recommend right now, it would be Steady As She Rose. It's perfect for summer. And I think it will make as a nice transitional color, into Fall and Winter. It's such a nice neutral. Something that any skin tone can pull off. Yes, you need to run out and buy this nail polish!

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

Hopeful

Today Miss ♥D has a doctor's appointment. We've learned to hold our breath, when it comes to these appointments. Especially lately. It's tough to think about anything else going wrong. I go into these things, trying to be as supportive and strong, as I possibly can. Being her rock. Inside, I feel completely sick. Out of control.

This is the only thing that I can't control, in life. I can't pay someone, so that Miss ♥D is feeling better. You can't buy good health. As much as I'd like to. You just can't. I've learned that the hard way. That's a tough pill to swallow.

Early this morning, I got a kiss from Miss ♥D. She had to work. 2 hours away. It made for an early morning for her. But even with that, I try to make it easier on her. Knowing that she had a doctor's appointment, and that we're leaving for NY later, I got a car service to drive her. With that sweet kiss, I began to silently pray.

Any other day, I would have gone back to sleep. My work day, starting hours later. But I couldn't sleep. I couldn't stop thinking about the woman I love. And what she must be going through. Knowing that at any moment, as she calls it, "The Big C" can get totally out of control. Things that she so neatly organizes, can blow up.

I sat there. With our dogs. Just thinking. I know that she's "The One" for me. I've always known this. From the day I first met her. I just can't imagine life without her. I really can't. Over the last 3 years, I've really learned to love. I need Miss ♥D, like one needs air or water, to live.

I try not to let my mind go there. But sometimes I wonder, what if... It's a horrible thing to imagine. It literally makes me sick to my stomach. I have to remind myself to stay hopeful. To remember that she's beaten it thus far. I've also learned to not count on certain things. That the fact that Miss ♥D's health doesn't get worse, well that's a damn good thing. Bad news, is when things get worse. It may sound odd to people when I say, I don't want her health to be worse off, just the same as last time. A bonus would be better. Complete health, that's a miracle. But if she's not worse, that's good too.

Today, I've tried to work. I've been thinking about all sorts of things. But mostly, that I want to be there, for the woman I love. I don't care about the rest. This work, it will get done. If not today, there's tomorrow. Traveling to NY, well, we'll get there, when we get there. I'm not worried about that. I'm only worried about Miss ♥D. My word for today is, HOPEFUL. D

Country Girl

I really enjoy this song. It puts me in a good mood. Every single time, that I hear this song, I smile. Yes, I do! And since today is going to be a little nuts, I just want to be in a good mood. I hope they play Country Girl, a few times on the radio. Because I need something to keep me going. It's going to be a long day at work, a doctor's appointment, and traveling. Yup, it's going to be a busy one!

XOXO

♥D

S'mores

It's summer. And all I can think of, is s'mores. Yes, to me, they can become a late evening meal. In the heat of the summer. We make all sorts of excuses, to make these bad boys. To light a fire, stick a marshmallow on a stick, and return to our childhoods. Yes, they are heaven!



And tonight, well, we're going to sit by the fire. And enjoy a few of our favorite summer treats. Any excuse to cuddle up by the fire, and enjoy some melted chocolate. Definitely a sign of summer. One that I welcome every summer! :)

XOXO

♥D

The USA and Money Problems

What's up with our country? For over a damn month now, I've been watching all these politicians bitch and gripe on TV. This party was pissed off at that party. There seemed to be very few, that were willing to give in. To give a little, so they could take a little. Everyone was being greedy.

It took a total and complete meltdown, to make them move. In a "Hail Mary" move, they finally past some legislation. Nothing to really fix the problem. More of a band aid to the problem. Shit, it pissed me off. Who are these people? What makes them think this is a joke.

I'm lucky. I have a damn good job. I have more than enough money to keep going. We have a nice house. All the things we really need. But most Americans don't. Frankly, most were hurting long before this. Years ago. Lost jobs, markets crashing, shit happening. The politicians just stood there. Dumb founded.

Now they're bitching because the USA's credit score was dropped. Well, why didn't they pass decent legislation. And do it in a timely dang matter? Simple. We need to pay our bills. When we show signs of weakness, we're punished. Now you have everyone in DC pointing fingers. Blaming each other. Saying that this isn't that bad. Really?

Go to an average American household. It's bad. I constantly see people struggling. Barely making it. Trying to move forward. They're losing their jobs, then their homes, and barely keeping their families fed. Times up DC, time to get your shit together. Time to start working for the Americans that have elected you. They desperately need you help. You've screwed them over long enough.

I will not apologize for this post. Maybe some of my language. But not for the topic. If we as individuals have to pay our debts, why should the government try and get a "free pass?" Why aren't these people doing their jobs? Getting their crap together, and helping the "every day family" to do better for themselves? D

Miss Mary

Today, sadly, we lost an amazing friend. Miss Mary. A true sweetheart. Someone very special to us all. After 88 years with, Miss Mary has gone to rest with our Maker. She will be truly missed. Fun times will be remembered. And her amazing soul, will always live on, with her loved ones. Our hearts go out to her family. We will miss you Miss Mary. May you rest in peace.

XOXO

♥D and D

New Girl

I'm getting all excited for Fall. For a ton and a half of reasons. The cooler weather, the possibility to go home for a visit, new babies, the fun traveling, and the TV shows. I'm being serious here! There are some good shows coming. Like New Girl...



Yes, I'm excited to see this new FOX show. It just looks like a funny show! One that is totally relatable. And will have my attention. Something that will take my mind off of real life. And isn't that why we watch TV? To forget about our troubles, even for just a few minutes. So I'm anxiously awaiting the Fall lineup. This is one show that I'll be tuning into. How about you?

XOXO

♥D

Sunday Stealing...The Nasty 31 Meme, Part One

Today is already looking up. The weather has definitely cleared up. D always says, when we travel out here, we should just expect tons of rain. I LOVE the rain! But with D's work, it's not really a good thing. So we're just happy that it's cleared up.

Yesterday, I convinced D that we should do a little shopping. Totally out of the ordinary for me. And for him. But when D was out here in June, and I was back in my hometown, he did some shopping at the Outlet Mall. And he came home with some treasures. So we ventured out yesterday. D a little dressed down, with a baseball hat, to sorta hide who he is. Because, that could have been a disaster! But we ended up having a great time. And scored some great deals. :)

So D is off working. I'm sitting here trying to work on some gifts. The TV is tuned to watch today's events. And I'm debating calling up a good friend. Yes, today is looking up. Oh, and I decided it was time to do the Sunday Stealing. Happy Sunday!

XOXO

♥D

1. What has been your longest love relationship? My relationship with D. It's been over 3 years. Longest, most consistent relationship for us. :)

2. What was the last gift that you received? A necklace from D. I've been wanting it forever. And he found it saved in my "Favorites" folder, on my computer. :)

3. What do you spend your extra cash on? Usually crafting supplies. Or books. Sometimes food.

4. If you could live anywhere, where would you live? Anywhere with D. No lie! I don't really care where.

5. Who's your cell provider? Verizon

6. What's your favorite mall store? That's tough. But probably Hallmark. Or Forever 21.

7. What's the longest job that you've had? (No parenting does not count!) It depends. I've been a musician since I was 11. But I've worked at the hospital for about 8 years now.

8. If you won the lottery, who'd you call first? A lawyer. With my family, definitely a lawyer. Do you know what I mean?

9. If you won, how would you spend your money after investments? I'd pay off any debts. Invest some money. Then I'd go on a fun vacation. Maybe invite some friends. And definitely do some shopping!

10. When was the last time you went to church (or a religious house)? Just today. I really enjoy going to church. It just makes me feel better.

11. What's the biggest lie that you've heard? Hmmm, that's tough. With my family, you hear a lot of crap. Maybe that my brother is 100% innocent...ya, and I'm God...

12. When you go out with your friends, where do you go? Usually out to eat. Or to the movies. We're pretty low key like that. We just like to hangout. Occasionally, we'll go shopping.

13. When was the last time that you cried? Shut up! That would be Friday. I was an emotional wreck.

14. What food do you hate? Posole, tamales, menudo. I'm not into those really ethnic foods. And my family LOVES them!

15. What do you like best about yourself? I have a big heart. I always try to see the best in people. And I like doing things for other people, way more than for myself.

I LOVE Lucy!

Today is Lucy's 100th Birthday. And if you know anything about me, know this. I LOVE Lucy. Since I was young, I've been the biggest fan. I would always get in the best mood, when I Love Lucy was on. It was and still is, my favorite TV show.

Over the years, I've collected various memorabilia. But honestly, I don't have much. And I definitely don't have any DVDs. I always see them at the store. But find it hard to part with $30-40 for one season. I know. I'm lame. And one day, I will.

But today is all about Lucy. A day to celebrate her life. And all of her amazing work. I've actually found a marathon on TV. And I'll be tuning in, until D gets back from work. Maybe I can even convince some of his buddies to watch with me. They're all coming over for dinner tonight. This could be fun! Happy Birthday Lucy!

XOXO

♥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