Saturday, August 13, 2011

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

Friday, August 12, 2011

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

Thursday, August 11, 2011

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

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

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

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

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

Monday, August 8, 2011

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, August 7, 2011

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.

Saturday, August 6, 2011

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

Friday, August 5, 2011

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

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Intimate Matters

I've put this particular conversation off for a while. Who wants to talk to their older sister about these matters? Not me. I rarely ever talked to my sister, about girls in general. As teens, she'd try and bribe me. It didn't work. Why would I talk to her? I needed to avoid all that embarrassment. At all costs!

As adults, we've gotten closer. We've been through a hell of a lot of shit together. Losing our Dad. Her relationships. Failed marriages. Children. My failed relationships. My career. Our lives. All of it. With all this crap, I've gotten more comfortable. Felt like I could talk about more stuff with her. Especially when we began working together. I really felt like she had my back.

When ♥D and I started dating, we did it quietly. Neither of us wanted extra pressure. From anyone. We already had a lot going against us. Our physical distance. She lived in SW. I lived in SE. We both had highly demanding jobs. We just wanted this to be quiet. To be our thing.

Soon, people could tell something was different. I was freakin' happy 24/7. It had absolutely nothing to do with my new job adventures. It was this new woman. I knew immediately that she had me. That this was it. We were meant for one another. I just needed a way to make things easier. To make them work for us. To figure out how to at least get us in the same city.

My sister came to me one day, and wanted to know what was up. I was playing dumb. I wasn't so sure if I wanted her to know. Completely out of character for me. She is the one person I share almost everything with. As she grilled me, and our cousin loved it, she knew something was up. My cousin finally gave me up. I think he was a little too happy to have something over me.

There was never anyone that was so happy. My sister was happy. She knew I had found someone, that really made me happy. Not someone that would be a "play thing." But a real partner for me. She was just happy. Even happy that we were choosing to keep this quiet. Later, we'd both agree, it has been the single best thing. The one thing that has allowed for Miss ♥D and I to have this relationship. This real relationship. That's so strong.

Time past. Miss ♥D and my family got close. My sister really liked her. Liked that she was a good and strong woman. A woman with dreams and goals of her own. But an "old school" type. You know, takes care of the home, cooks, cleans, puts family first, loves with everything she's got. My whole family was just happy.

And not much more was said. My family just opened their arms. Let her in. Welcomed and loved her. A few times, someone would bring something up. Of the intimate matter. Were we being safe? Was I making sure to "cover up?" The usual talk, when people think they need to protect you. But we could figure ways out of it. Of not having to completely answer. Let everything out. My cousin would joke with me. But it was all light. Nothing too deep, or serious.

Then came my sister. This week. My newlywed sister. Who wanted to know. Know everything. Do we do it? Are we using protection? Will we have kids before we get married? What's going on there? Dude, I was like a damn deer in the headlights. What the hell?



Miss ♥D and I rarely talk to people about this. But I'm sure people wonder. Hell, I'll admit it here. I've dating some women...let's just say...some that I'd never take home to meet my momma or grandma. Let alone my sister or nieces. You just don't do that. I was young. Stupid. Had the world by the damn tail. Thought I knew it all. But what those models, bunnies, and other women didn't have...was everything I was looking for in a woman. Everything that Miss ♥D is, and has.

The answer I gave my sister was no. We don't. Miss ♥D has certain morals, values, and beliefs. I love her more than life itself. And I respect these things. I'd be lying if I said that the thought hasn't crossed my mind. A few billion times. Hell, I'm still a red blooded American man. Sometimes, the damn wrong head is doing the thinking. How can it not? She's a beautiful, sensual woman. But I respect my girlfriend and her beliefs.

The funny thing is, this was probably one of our very first conversations. I don't even know how it came about. But we met, when Miss ♥D was performing in the City of Sin. She was in a Burlesque group. And man, did she look amazing! I paid a guy, to make sure that I'd get a chance to meet her.

Yes, 2 incredibly shy kids. You're probably wondering who made the first move. Well, to tell the truth. Neither of us. I paid a guy to meet Miss ♥D. I met her. So incredibly shy. At the time she was dating someone. And was completely different off stage. Onstage, she was confident. Almost demanding your attention. She had a very sensual way of singing. A fun energy about her, when she danced.

But when we talked, she was quiet. Shy. I recognized that. I'm the same way. She blushed when we shook hands. And was not at all comfortable, when her group took a picture with my buddies and I. But she was sweet. Genuine. Real. Super friendly. Big heart. You could tell that right away. Just the way she was so kind. Even to her bodyguard. Super sweet. Offering him a drink, or a snack. A chance to relax before the next show. And a party later.

I knew that I had met my match, when I met Miss ♥D. There was just something about her. I hoped that I'd get a chance. I knew that she'd love with all her heart. Fill me with that love. I could just imagine what life with her would be like. Full of passion and chemistry. A bit of mystery. Because there was just something in her eye, a sparkle. I just knew that I wanted a chance. And I got that chance. Months later. We were both single. And I took the chance.

I had the knowledge, that this incredible woman was a virgin. And would remain so, until she was married. I knew that. And I more than accepted it. I welcomed it. I respected it. Because Miss ♥D is too special, to just write off.

Was I a sexual being before? Am I a red blooded American man? Of course I was. Did I think this would be tough? Yes. I knew it would be. But I don't think, that I really thought it through. Thought how would I handle it? The cuddling time, that she so dearly enjoys. The make out sessions, that remind you of being a teenager. And then realizing, it has to stop. Sharing a bed with someone, that you just want to devour, and must hold back. The things that flash through your mind. The things you want to do, enjoy, and feel with the woman that you love the most. But I know that I have to wait. Keep all this under control. Control my feelings and desires. My wants. The things that my body wants most.

It's tough as hell. But I remind myself, Miss ♥D is worth it. And worth so much more. She is. God knows, she is! I find myself wanting her more and more each day. And I remind myself, that's only natural. It's tough. Tough as hell. But you do what you have to do, for love.

My sister literally fell out of her chair, during our conversation this week. I busted out laughing. Who would have thought? She immediately called Miss ♥D. That look that crossed her face, told it all. Then I got that hug and "I'm proud of you little brother." It felt good. I know I'm doing the right thing here.

I know, this has made Miss ♥D's and I relationship stronger. I don't care what people think, or say. Because this is our relationship. We do what's best for the 2 of us. Not what other people think is best. That makes me feel good. I've got Miss ♥D's back, and she's got mine. Is there anything else that we need?

Believe me, I do miss that. I miss the sex. I crave that, with the woman I love. To be that intimate. That close to her. To hear her call my name...just like that. To hold me, as ecstasy takes over. Like I'm the only thing that can keep her alive. To know, that I'm the one that makes her feel just that way. To feel her body crave and yearn for my body, the way it just happens. At just the right time. To feel us connected as one. Sex is different when you're in love. When you are older. And appreciate it. The intimate matters of it. Not just the physicality.

For now, I'll take all the making out, cuddling, and sleeping so close, that I swear you couldn't fit a piece of paper between us. Because it's what the love of my life needs. I'll give her anything and everything that she needs. Even if it means some ice cold showers, from time to time, for me.

But honestly, watching her battle the Big C, like she does, how can I not sacrifice a little bit? She literally fights for her life. How can I be pissed about something like this? To me, it's all worth it. One day, we'll be there. OK, so we might not be reachable for about 6 months. ;-) But you'll know why. It just might push me into early retirement. Because I won't be able to focus on anything else. But the time will come. When our bodies finally give in to all our desires. When we cling to each other for life. Like our entire existence depends on one another. When we become one body, soul, and spirit. And it will be amazing for both of us. D

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Fly Away Home



I'm definitely what one would call a "reader." I LOVE books! Honestly, in a week, I probably read 10+ books. It's insane. But it's true. Every once in a while, you come across a book that you literally can't put down. And that happened this week.

Jennifer Weiner happens to be one of my favorite authors. I literally stumbled upon on of her books, years ago. And it was instant love. Love at first read. :) She is just an author that has fun with her books. A little risky? Maybe. I'd definitely not share my books with say, my Mom. But I would share them with some friends. You know, that kind of author.

I bought Fly Away Home a while back. And somehow, I hadn't read it. It kind of just got put down on a table, then up on a bookshelf, then I forgot about it. Sad, I know. But it happened. And as I was trying to take a nap earlier this week, I kept seeing this book on the bookshelf. Finally, I got up, and started reading.

Instantly, I was hooked. In a good way. I literally couldn't put the book down. It's a good thing, D was at work. Because I literally sat there and read. The entire house could have fallen down. And I wouldn't have known it! I was so into my book, I failed to notice when my dear boyfriend got home, looked around, and left. Only to return an hour later with takeout. :)

But this is definitely a book that I'd recommend reading. I finished it up in a few hours. The story of this family just sucks you in. The hardships, lessons learned, and growing of individuals. Totally relatable. If you're looking for a book that slightly touches on current affairs, but also pulls at your heartstrings, this one is for you! A perfect "Summer Read."

XOXO

♥D

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

A Little Edgy

I recently found this Etsy Shop. There are so many items in Michelle Chang Jewelry's Shop, that I want. The pieces are so delicate. Yet, edgy. Fun. And honestly, classic. Oh, if I just had a crap load of money, that I didn't need. :)



This has to be my favorite necklace though. It reminds me of one of my Goddaughters. Who LOVES Muertos. Essentially, skeletons. Now if I could just find $300. You know, that I don't have to spend on school. I'd definitely order this necklace. If I won the lottery, I'd have to buy one of everything in this shop!

XOXO

♥D

Monday, August 1, 2011

Summer Baby Blanket

Are you like me? Invited to a million and one Baby Showers. So many people are having babies right now. I'm trying to dream up new and fun baby gifts. But my brain just isn't working. And I'm getting a little bored with the same patterns. So I ventured out. And I found this pattern.



Isn't this the cutest baby blanket? Perfect for my soon-to-be here Goddaughters. Living in the hot southwest. Now I just need to get to the store. And decide which colors would work perfectly. Tomorrow sounds like a great day. I'm ready to search through the craft stores. I'm really excited to try this delicate blanket.

XOXO

♥D