Searching For Pineapples...

Way back when, I was browsing the aisles of Wal-Mart. At 3AM. Where I live, that's the best time to shop. Almost no one, is in the store. And in a college town, that's rare. Where our local store is booming with college aged shoppers until 2AM. And the "family types," take over around 6AM.

Well, on this particular day, I found some pineapple candles. I can just imagine what you are thinking. But I have a soft place in my heart, for the pineapple. Since I was little, I've always preferred pineapple juice, over all other juices. Weird? I don't know. But it's the truth.

So at 3AM, I found myself buying 12 pineapple candles. It didn't hurt, that the sweet yellow color, matched my guest bathroom perfectly. The scent was light. And not overly sweet. But it scented the bathroom nicely. Just a light hint, of pineapple. Fresh pineapple. Not something artificial.

This went well with everything else in my life. At the time. The palm trees, that were in my backyard. My daily fresh pineapple snack. The soft glow of candles, when I'd get home, from a long day at work.

Fast forward. 2 or 3 years. And I was on my last 2 candles. During any other time in my life, I'd have gone through those candles, in less than a year. But I was no splitting my time, between 2 homes, and the open road. It was a good thing. It extended my little stash. But now, I'm missing those candles. And that time in my life...

I took to Wal-Mart, about 18 months ago. Searching for my beloved candles. With no luck! I searched and searched. Spent months. Asked friends. Looked for other candles. Searched on eBay. But I've had no luck!

So I figured, I'd take to my blog. And ask, has anyone seen a pineapple candle? Any brand. Any store. But I'm looking for just a pineapple candle. I've found candles, a variety of combinations. But the other scents, overwhelm the pineapple.

I hope someone can help me. Point me in the right direction. I know, years ago I found those candles in Spring. So maybe someone has seen something. Or maybe you know of a good Etsy shop. I want a realistic scent. Something that reminds me of fresh pineapple. Thank You ahead of time, for all your help! ♥  

Hair Ideas...

For a long while now, I've wanted to cut my hair. Do something with it. Get an actual "style" going on. Part of that, is I'm looking for some change. For a little fun. Something different. More "grown up." You know what I mean?

Most of the time, Manders cuts and styles my hair. But now that we're a few thousand miles apart, it less and less often. We're usually trying to get my hair cut, right before a show. When it needs to be long enough, for the hairstyles, that I need for the shows. Which is not what I want for my "every day hair."

Then when we're not around each other, I just go with this guy. When he gets his hair cut, so do I. At this cute little barber shop. Definitely not a place, to go for a new style. Just a trim.

To be honest, I've got some rather annoying hair. "Chia pet hair." I've never really liked it. But in the last few years, I've grown to embrace my hair. My dark brown hair, that has tons of natural red highlights. The crazy hair, that just can't air dry. The same hair, that begs for a hair straightener. Something that I still haven't replaced...almost a year after mine went to hair straightener heaven!

Most days, I'm simple. A little hair product, a hair clip or 2, and I'm done. With those curly waves. That by the end of the day, end up, in a loose bun. On top of my head.

So I've been doing a little research. Hoping that when the gigs are all said and done, later this month, Manders can do something with my hair. Anything! I don't want to wear it in a bun, all summer long. And our next big round of gigs, isn't until late summer. My hair will grow back by then.

I've searched and searched, for some ideas. But the ones I'm leaning toward most, are here. What do you think?



I can go for it. And cut off all my hair like Jennifer Aniston. What a fresh feel for summer. :)



Or maybe just some texture like Kate Moss. Add some fringe. A little choppy layers. Something a little less formal. A lot more fun!



I could stick with longer locks. Just learn to really style them. With this style, I'd still have to cut off about half of my hair. Darn, why did I let it get so long? I've just been lazy about my hair...

Personally, I've never really had short hair. The texture of my hair, just would create a HUGE mess!!! Weeks before I graduated, I cut my hair. Shoulder length. Loved it! Then it grew back. So quickly! And I didn't bother much with it. The first summer that I lived in the desert, I cut it just above my shoulders. Loved it! Managed to keep it that short, until the Fall. When school started again.

But now, I'm itching for a change. Who knows, maybe I'll venture even further. And change the color. I just want something new. Fun. And a little more, well "put together." I'm telling you, living in the South, makes you realize these important things. Like having a real "personal style." And I so badly need one! ♥

Love It!

"I'll never grow old, if I keep on rolling with the flow." ~Unknown

I'm someone, that LOVES quotes. And poetry. I'm ALWAYS looking for inspirational words. And pictures. Anything, that makes my heart and soul, grow more.

That quote, is something, that really touches my soul. It's true. I know this, from my own grandpa. Who is nearly 99 years old, that age is just a number. I've also learned that, from this guy. It's truly one of the reasons, that I love him so much! :)

I'm someone, who has ALWAYS felt like, I was an "Old Soul." But with a kid's heart. Do you understand that? That age never mattered. Well, if you've read about my dating history, you'll definitely see that. I've always dated an older man. Not an old man, but someone older than me. Because it's not about their age, yet about our similarities. Our chemistry. And our relationship.



This picture, reminds me a lot, about this post. About taking that leap. And going after, what I want. And not waiting anymore. Because I'm someone, who seriously over thinks and over plans everything!

I LOVE to be inspired! LOVE IT!!! Do you have a book I should read? Pictures I should look at. Quotes that you love. Shops that you enjoy. Anything inspirational? Please leave me a comment with your inspiration. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. I'd LOVE to see, what inspired you! ♥

Oh Spring!

We've been in Sin City, for a few days now. And I'm feeling more refreshed. More inspired. More myself. Weird how that happens. But I'm going to work with it. :)

The weather has been nice. And warm. We've been performing. And I'm in LOVE with our new costumes! Cole is so talented! And with all of this, I've begun to think of Spring. It's just around the corner! And it's my favorite time of year.

Silently, I've wanted to go shopping. For the last few weeks. To head to my nearest Forever 21. And see what kind of fun items, they have. But, I've been busy. And it just hasn't happened. But this incredible weather, is just begging me, to go buy some new clothes. Like this...



It's hilarious, that I'm in LOVE with this bikini! I don't swim. I don't know how to swim. But I do enjoy, laying out by the pool. When this guy is out there. But not for long. Because, I'm positive that the sun HATES me! No matter what SPF I wear, I turn bright red!

But there's something about Spring, the warm weather, and all the retro clothes, that I've been wearing...that makes me pine for this bikini. Oh seersucker, how I LOVE you! ♥

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

The weather in the Sunshine State is always, and I mean ALWAYS, changing. And pretty quickly. It actually reminds me a lot, of my home state. But, the rain pretty much moved in yesterday. And won't leave! We're ready for a little sunshine. OK, A LOT of sunshine!

The last few days have been a little crazy. My Guy was supposed to work yesterday. But the rain has delayed that. And as of this morning, things are not looking good right now. As much as I LOVE this beautiful state, we're ready to head home. PLEASE RAIN...STOP!!!



Like I said, it rained all afternoon and evening yesterday. And we needed something to fill up our time. We called a couple of friends. But this guy, had already decided to take My Bestie out to dinner. And Brother B, was going to watch Baby C.

What did that leave for My Guy and me to do? Eat an entire pot of food! I made "The Lady & Sons Beef Vegetable Soup." I also baked a big 'ol loaf of crusty bread. We might have also enjoyed some homemade carmel corn, a little cobbler, and some ice cream. Watched 8 hours of Clint Eastwood movies. :) Oh ya! Baby it was a great night. Just a little something we like to do.

Not the way, we had planned our night. But what can you do? Mother Nature has sent us rain. And essentially told us, it's time to slow down. Even for just one night. Honestly, I couldn't think of a better way, to spend my Sunday night. With the man I LOVE. Cuddling, and enjoying some of our favorite treats. ♥

Tripas Eating Tripas

After not feeling so well, over the last few days, My Guy and I decided, to just take last night, and enjoy. We went out to a yummy dinner. Where we obviously, ordered way too much food! So we came back with big "Doggy Bags."

It's a good thing too! Because today, I'm just not feeling it. I'm feeling very lazy! Not sad, like the last few days. Just lazy. It might be the roller coaster of emotions that I've been on. Or maybe the gloomy weather, that we've been in. I'm not sure. But this morning, it was tough!

As usual, I threw myself out of bed. Managed to order My Guy some breakfast. And spent 30 minutes trying to get him out of bed. He's not a morning person! But he often has morning work obligations.

I was not in the mood to eat. I wanted to sleep. But I know better. I must stay awake. If not, My Guy will never leave on time. This week especially, I needed to get him out the door on time. Oh boy!

He sat eating his breakfast. Half asleep. Listening to me, tell him, all about his schedule. We also talked about our traveling plans for the week. Time we're going to spend with family and friends. And what next weekend holds for us. It turned out to be a good morning. I even ate a strawberry or two.

But the minute My Guy left, I was all about getting back into bed. No lie! People, I don't know why, but I've been completely drained, as of late. I went to sleep for a bit. But woke up...STARVING! Starving like Marvin. Oh, boy. What to do?

Because of where we are this week, we're staying in a hotel. We don't do this much. But this week, we're in a hotel. I didn't want to order room service. I just knew I wouldn't eat it all. And I remembered that we had food, from last night. In our mini fridge.

I was getting excited! That yummy piece of meat. The mouth watering one, from last night, that I didn't finish. And you know what, as one of my "Tripas was eating up the other," I was warming up my food. :)

"Breakfast of Champions" today? A hunk of meat! Or like my friends like to say, a piece of "Man Meat." :) You know, a nicely grilled piece of yummy meat. That's what I ate.



No potatoes. No veggies. Nothing. Just meat. And when My Guy called to chat with me, before he started the big part of his day, he laughed. Laughed at my yummy breakfast. Why? Because I always tease him.

When he is home alone, he just makes a piece of meat for dinner. Whether it's a steak, a pork chop, or ribs. He only eats meat. Almost like he doesn't know how to cook anything else. Even though, I know he does. Funny huh?

And on an unrelated note, today is my sister's birthday. Unfortunately, we haven't talked in years. Lots of family problems. But once, we were so close. Spent so much time together. Regardless of our age difference. So I hope she has a wonderful birthday! Happy Birthday Sister!!! No matter what has happened, I love you. ♥

28

Today marks the beginning of year 28 for me. A little scary. I definitely thought I'd be living a completely different life right now. You know, college graduate, married, and maybe a baby or two. But life has lead me down another, and might I add, more exciting path.

I'm still in college. Getting a degree in medicine. Who in the heck would have thought? Dating the most amazing man alive. How did that happen? I swear to you, some days, I feel like my life is a dream. In a good way. :)

10 years ago, all I could think about was graduating from high school. Moving away from home. And "starting my life." You know, my way. So much has changed. But for some reason, this is the year that I've stopped to reflect.

My illness has not made things easy. It's created so many challenges for me. Things that I would have never thought about. You know, before that "fateful, life changing, difficult day." But I think God has done this to me, to prove a lot to myself. To show me, I can do it. I can take care of myself. I can do this on my own. I'm strong enough. Because no matter what, I've done a lot, while dealing with the "Big C."

And I've accomplished so much in my 10 years, post high school. Like owning a home. No mortgage. Full out owning it! Buying and paying off a new car. Chasing my dreams. Both in performing, and in school/work. And I've learned so much about myself. Good things. Bad things. It all has helped me grow.

I've lost so many amazing people in my life as well. Been faced with life changing situations. Helped take care of my Dad. Entered a new phase of my life. Become a Godmother. To many precious little girls. And fell in love. I still don't know how that happened. Oh, and I "unofficially" moved across the country. :)

So to celebrate, I'm going to share with you. 28 things that I don't think you know about me. And I'm not sure here. You know, it's been a year and a half of blogging. Is there anything you don't know about me? I'm not sure. But here we go...

1. More than once, I considered becoming a Nun. As in a "Sister." In the Catholic Church. I swear, it was calling me.

2. I past up a music contract with Sony. I'm not lying! I don't exactly know what I was thinking at the time. But seeing as where my life has lead me, I'm thinking it was the best choice I could have made.

3. I like to eat my french fries with mayonnaise. Not ketchup. Mayonnaise. Or a Frosty from Wendy's. :)

4. I miss some of my best friends. Like a person would miss air. Friends that I just grew apart from. Like Amanda, Hillary, Patricia, Jude, Brenda, Jennifer, Jenny, Antoinette, and Priscilla. That's just 9. A short list. There are a few more. How sad is that? But how do you reconnect?

5. I would have given my right arm, to have played full time, with a Mariachi in my hometown. You know, where they respected me. Not the crap that I dealt with. I really wanted that. More than anything.

6. I still get nervous about talking in Spanish. I don't know why. I just do. Like I'm waiting for myself to fail or something.

7. I'm very insecure. And lack in self confidence. Most people don't know this. They just think I'm ridiculously shy. Which I am. The two together, can almost be crippling.

8. Along the "Friend Topic," at least once every two weeks, I'm probably minutes away from my childhood best friend. I work at the hospital, in the city, where she lives. I need to schedule in some time to meet up with her. I really miss our friendship.

9. For years, I watched Telenovelas. Why? I'm not positive. But it did give me the confidence to speak in Spanish. I've understood, read, and written in Spanish since I was a small kid. But I didn't really "speak" Spanish, in conversation, until I was a teenager.

10. I miss my Grandma a lot. And occasionally, I go have lunch at her grave. I talk to her and my Grandpa (that I never met.) It always makes me feel better.

11. The idea of wearing shorts, almost makes me have a panic attack. I don't know. I was a cheerleader for years. Wearing a lot less. But shorts, they scare me!

12. There was this guy in college. I had the BIGGEST crush on him. So bad, I could barely talk to him. Forget when he sang, played, or looked my way. I would turn "beet red" when he'd talk to me. It's pretty hilarious now that I think about it! :P

13. I still panic, when I have to change the thread, in my sewing machine. I don't know why. But it makes me sweat bullets!

14. I can easily spend $100 at Dollar Tree. On what? All kinds of things. Especially around holidays. Or now at Spring time. So I avoid it like the plague!

15. I can't remember the last time I washed my car! I rarely wash it. And 99% of the time, it's a mess. While my house is completely spotless. Not a thing out of place. I don't get it!

16. I sometimes eat an entire package of whipped cream. With warm chocolate chip cookies. Why? It makes me feel better, after a bad day at work.

17. I really like "Hospital Jell-O." So much that I eat at least 2 cups every single time I work. :)

18. I've always wanted to ride a real life bull. Like the ones in the PBR. But at the same time, it scares me to death!

19. I brush my teeth at least 6 times a day. And floss 2 or 3 times. I still fear losing all of my teeth. I honestly don't know why.

20. I organize everything in my house. EVERYTHING! Books by authors. Clothes by color. Dishes by size. Linens. Gardening tools. Wrapping paper, ribbons, and cards. Jewelry. Food. Everything! It's almost crippling.

21. I like to sleep outside, on the porch, when it rains.

22. I'm scared that I'm going to be the "Unsuccessful Graduate of WMHS '01." Maybe because I feel like I haven't accomplished enough. I don't know.

23. I don't use public restrooms. EVER! I just can't do it. The "Germ Factor" freaks me out. I know, it's bad for my health. But I can't.

24. I have a diagnosed, sleep disorder. Most days, I sleep maybe 2 or 3 hours. Nothing seems to help. And honestly, I'm exhausted 90% of the time. But I put on a brave face. And don't tell people that I'm silently suffering.

25. I still can't bring myself to change a dirty diaper. I can't. What in the world am I going to do, when I have kids?

26. I secretly love math, chemistry, and physics. I realized that during one of my toughest semesters in college. I really do enjoy those classes! Can I take more?

27. When I was little, I knew deep in my heart, I wanted to be a mommy and a wife. I never wanted a career. Just to love and take care of my family.

28. My butt gives me nightmares. Think "Baby Got Back." Is it too big? Too "out there?" But secretly, I like having a larger rear end. But it still gives me anxiety. So I workout.

There you go. 28 things about me. I wonder if you really learned anything worth while? But right now, those are the things that are on my brain. I might do this again. Maybe a few times during year #28. ♥

Can We Start Over?

We've had a pretty hilarious day, thus far. And it's still early. But that's our life. And we're who we are. No changing that. I'm pretty sure that My Guy and I are a little old, and set in our ways. :)

Usually we have dinner with his grandma on Monday nights. You know, as long as we're in town. And we don't have to work. Heck, there have been times when I go to her house for dinner, while My Guy has to work. He has to miss out, but I don't! She makes dinner, I take dessert, and then I do all the cleaning. Because I just LOVE spending time with her. Hearing stories from the past. But this week, it just didn't happen. There were a few things that got in the way.

So, she came over for breakfast this morning. Probably not the best time to have planned this. Since I had a doctor's appointment, My Guy had to go to work, and we were getting ready to head west. But we hadn't seen each other in a long time. And I truly had missed her. We still had a yummy breakfast! I LOVE the fact that she LOVES Mexican food. So we had chiquichilles. So yummy!

On the way to my doctor's appointment, something happened to the car. And while My Guy was trying to figure it out, hood up and all, someone recognized him. Before I knew it, I was hiding under a seat in the back, he was on the phone with his assistant, and there were at least 20 cars stopped on the side of the road. All those people were taking pictures of him! Craziness!!!

I think I've said it more than once on here, but Mondays are our Sundays. Therefore, Tuesdays are our Mondays. And believe me, today FELT just like a MONDAY! Everything going wrong, and a HUGE list of things to do.

We lucked out a bit. One of My Guy's friends happened to see us stranded on the side of the road. He called a buddy of his, that owns a tow truck. And by the time My Guy's assistant got there, they were hooking up the tow truck. Some whispers were exchanged. We, or I should say I, was towed half a block into some random garage. Where I was able to sneak into the assistant's car. And then we were off to the doctor. Crazy! But no one saw me. :)

I was late to my appointment. My doctor was nowhere to be found. And I fell asleep in the waiting room. My Guy, he had to rush to work. Ya, we broke down maybe 5 minutes from his job. But they had to drive 2 hours to my appointment and back. After his meeting, he came to pick me up. I was asleep. In the waiting room. Still hadn't seen the doctor...

Eventually, I was checked out. I'm "A OK." Well, thanks! I knew that. We missed our scheduled flight out of town. And had to wait to be cleared for another take off. 2 hours in an airplane. On the tarmac. Ya, it's been a tough one.

I'm just happy to be going home. To the SW. Where I belong! Hopefully tomorrow is more kind to us. I can't take another day like this. Oh, and we might just tell my Dad about this whole relationship thing. You know, since we've almost been dating for 3 years! Where in the heck has all the time gone? ♥

Do You Have Game?

I know that this is a weird thing to ask. But do you have game? As in flirting ability. Dating type of thing. The ability to flirt your way to a free drink or two.

Why am I asking? Some friends and I were talking about this recently. I know it's a weird topic. But still. We were talking. And you know what, I have absolutely no game! At least I feel like I have no game.

Sure, onstage, I can flirt and "wow" like the best of them. I know how to turn a song into a flirty adventure. Make things go all hot and steamy. But away from the stage, I'm horrible! It's like everything is left onstage.

I never, ever even came close to flirting in high school. I barely talked to the 2 guys I liked. Years later, I find out that they liked me. But were unsure of how I felt. You know, because I didn't talk to them. And I most certainly didn't flirt with them...

In college, I wasn't much better. I became everyone's best friend. All of my guy friends, well we were buddies. We'd just hangout. And when I did date, it was all because of the men. I wasn't about to start that adventure.

Now that I've been in a serious relationship, for 2 1/2 years, I still lack in those skills. Which is hilarious! Because My Guy, he's got game. Serious game! Women fall at his feet. Although, these days, he rarely notices. But I notice. Me? Flirting? Not at all. He makes me blush when he starts his flirting antics. Because I feel like we're 15, and first dating.

But that's him. Mr. Flirt. He knows all the perfect things to say. The way to look at you. Just all of those things to do. He walks with "swagger." Maybe that comes from what he does for a living. You know, he's used to the spotlight. Maybe it comes from years and experience. I mean, I'd think I was cool too, if I had dated some of the women that he has. That "swagger" it has to come from that.

I'm still that awkward woman. That is not happy with the way she looks. Constantly annoyed with my hair. Thinks my thighs are too fat. And wonders, why in the world My Guy loves me. I have no game. I try. But I don't. Dress me up for work, and all of a sudden, I "strut." But that's the only time. Like high heels bring the confidence.

My friends ask me why. Why don't I have game? I don't know. I should. I should be the woman that says, "Hey. Ya, you! Look who I'm dating. I know you want him. I know he's one of the most sought after "bachelors. Ya, he loves me!" But behind the scenes, I'm not that confident. Ya, My Guy comes home to me. For some 30 months, he has come home to me. The woman that he loves. But I don't feel that confidence that I should. Not about him. But about me. I lack that self confidence.

I'm unsure. Not because of My Guy. I know he loves me. I'm the only one in his life. The only one that he wants. But "My Game," it doesn't exist. OK, if you ask him, he'd say different. He'd tell you, I've got mad game. But I really don't think so. I blush way too easy. I get flustered with my words. And to be honest, I can barely flirt.

Do you have game? I think part of it is, you have to be a little vulnerable. You need to show people a part of you. A part that they can fall in love with. And I'm well, a bit too guarded. But I'm getting better. My Guy and I have pretty much mastered the art of "flirtatious talk." You know, as I'm trying to write a paper for school. And he's going over contracts. While we're in workout clothes, in the den. Or when I'm cooking. My hair is usually a wreck, and I've got food splattered everywhere. That's when I seem to be most confident.

So maybe it's all in the eye of the beholder. Do you have game? Maybe you should ask the people around you. Because now that I think of it, I do get a lot of free food from the hospital cafeteria. Maybe I have a little bit of game. ♥

New Month, New Me, New Facebook?

Yes folks, I took the plunge. I signed up for Facebook. What do I mean by "New Facebook." Well, I had a Facebook page a few years ago. And because none of my friends had pages, and I just didn't get into it, I never used it. Short version of the story. I forgot my password. And what e-mail address I used for it...

Blah, blah, blah. Well, after using a friend's Facebook the other day, I decided it was time to sign up for a brand new one. Mostly because I want to catch up with some old friends. But I still want to be anonymous. Well, as anonymous as one can be. So my page is set to private. And now, I don't know if I should really contact my old friends or not. I guess time will just tell.

My current friends, well none of them have Facebook. We all got on MySpace at the same time. Then we forgot about it after a year or so. Now we're on twitter. And many of my friends are expanding to blogs. So we'll just have to see what my new Facebook page has in store for me. ♥

Friends...

I've been in a bit of a horrible place lately. With a certain friend. It seems like I'm the only one that reaches out and tries. A bit troubling in a friendship. Don't you think?

I call her. I e-mail. I plan out get togethers. I buy her gifts for Christmas or her birthday. I always remember to call her on her birthday. But her, I don't hear from her. Unless she wants to meet for lunch. But if she knows I'm not going to be around, I don't hear from her. It makes me mad. And sad.

But the one thing that really bothers me, is I've seen her steal. Not once, not even twice. But multiple times. I didn't know what to do. And I didn't know what to say. Because it was stupid stuff that she took. And how do you say anything?

The first time, it was Burt's Bees hand salve. The second time, it was Rose hand salve. Then it was pens at Staples. Pens at Target. Then lipgloss at Walgreen's. So I avoided her. It didn't all happen at once. But over time. Maybe 4 years or so. My final straw was when she stole from me! OK, it wasn't a million dollars or anything. But some lipglosses from my purse. I don't think she figured that I'd notice. But I did. And I think that was low. In fact, if she would have even said that she liked them, I would have probably gave them to her.

So her I am. I've avoided her. I've not seen her in well over 6 months. But I'm not sure if I should actually bring this up. Or just stop talking. Because in the last few days, she's called and e-mailed. I haven't responded to either.

I mean, I don't want people like this in my life. But what so I do? Do I say something? Do I ask her about it? Or do I just stop responding to her? ♥

Knife Guy

That my friends, is our knife guy. He sits on our kitchen counter. My Guy insisted on buying one. That was after he seen my pink one. The one my friends bought me as a joke. I talked about our Knife Guy here. And I got so many e-mails asking me about him.

Well, we're still in a tropical paradise. So I couldn't take a picture of our guy. So I searched online for one. I'm thinking that the Orange Guy is no longer available. Because it took me 90 minutes to find this crappy picture. Nowhere could I find our orange guy. The pink one, red one, even the blue one...yes. But not the orange one.

My Guy choice this little fellow, because he likes orange. And this is probably the only thing he picked out for our entire kitchen. THE ONLY THING!!! But I love it. It reminds me of home. Except mine is a lot cuter. Because mine is pink. :) I have no clue how much it cost. I'm sorry. And I seem to have a tough time locating them. But just google "Knife Guy," and you should be able to find one. ♥

Happy May Day!

Happy May Day! What is May Day you ask? Well, there's a variety of definitions. But I see it as, a day to make up some cute baskets and surprise my friends with some yummy goodies! Who doesn't like to surprise their friends with a fun treat?



Maybe some paper baskets with your favorite flowers. Perfect for any neighbors or friends that enjoy gardening.



A simple hanging paper cone with your favorite flowers. It's a nice way to share some of the beauties you grow in your yard.



Maybe a watering can. You can fill one up with either cut flowers from your yard, or some flowers that the recipient can plant.



How about a project your kids can help with? A simple can filled with Springtime goodies. :)



Or maybe a can with some precious blooms from your yard. I really like this look. It's simple and elegant.



Or a quick craft. With some paper and chocolate flowers. Yum! I would love to have some of these.



Maybe a mix of a pretty plant and some yummy chocolate. This is a win-win for everyone!



This is my personal favorite. The May Day cupcake! It's cute, yummy, fast, easy, and just plain fun!



I actually just got back. Turns out, I was hard at work on some May Day baskets last night. Too bad I forgot my camera at home. So no pictures. But I made some goodies and delivered them bright and early this morning. No one saw me. But guaranteed, they know who left them. :)

I had picked up some baskets after Easter. So I used them. And I made some paper and candy flowers, bird shaped suckers, Rice Krispie treats shaped into flowers, these cute cupcakes, and some springtime brownies. Yum! My Guy was in heaven last night.

For the ladies, I also made some Springtime aprons, kitchen towels, and pot holders. I hope everyone enjoys their treats. It was a lot of fun to put these together for a wonderful group of friends! ♥

Dove Truffle Eggs

I’m a HUGE chocolate fan. Everyone that knows me, knows that. It’s not a statement or a promise, it’s a fact. And Dove Truffle eggs are some of my favorite delights. I had my first one as a freshman in high school. My cheerleading coach brought them into a practice…after Easter. She had found a few boxes on clearance. And I was instantly an addict!

That year, I had half of a Dove Truffle Egg. In years to follow, I would run to the store the day after Valentine’s Day. Just in search of these gems. I do have to say, they’re getting harder and harder to find. In fact, I only found 1 box today. And I went to 5 stores!

Today, I’m on my own. My Guy has his nieces. They decided to go do something fun. Probably something having to do with animals, eating of lots of ice cream, and My Guy having to buys a few Barbies for them. :) But it’s all in good fun. They don’t get to spend a lot of time with their uncle. So today was a nice excuse.

As for me, I’m trying to keep my mind of off missing my bestie. And I’m trying to get the girls’ Easter baskets together. Which meant lots of shopping and candy! I couldn’t resist my favorite chocolate confections. And I grabbed the last box. I hope you get to have a couple this year! Dove really needs to add a similar product to their permanent product line. ♥

Just a Lil Bit

Yes, 50 Cent’s song just came on My Guy’s ipod. We’re on our way to the west coast. And I stole his ipod. His sleeping and I figure I can find a better use for it. This song cracks me up. It reminded me of so many things when I heard it. And the lover of music that I am, I listen to all kinds of music!!!

During 1 of my trips to Sin City, I danced to this song. With the LBs. I don’t even remember what it was for. But we had a dance for this song. It was a remix. A DJ friend of mine did it. It was a lot faster. And when it was done, I was happy that it was over.

But when I got home, the firefighters decided that this was going to be my song. It had just been released. And unfortunately for me, they called me ‘Lil Bit. A lot of friends call me that. Mostly because I’m so short. But whatever!

Just now when I heard this song, it just reminded me of it. Yes, Mike and I used to dance to it. Randomly. But we needed something to keep us all entertained. Running up the nearby mountain in 105*F temperature, not so fun. But we’d make it fun. And it became the song they would play when I was introduced at gigs. Anyway, here’s the video. ♥

Girls

Have you ever heard the Beastie Boys’ song “Girls?” The first time I heard it, I was young. I don’t know how old I was. But I liked it. Then when I was a junior in high school, we went to cheerleading camp. We had to learn a dance routine to this song. Don’t laugh, I remembered part of the dance when I heard this song. Completely random. But oh so true!

When the LBs and I got together, they always wanted to use this song. But I resisted it. Mostly because I remembered that dance from cheerleading camp. Not the best memory. Sweaty and grouchy cheerleaders, all crammed into a college basketball arena. Sunburned and in their matching cotton shorts and t-shirts. Listening to this song over and over, trying to remember their next move.

But eventually, the LBs and I found ourselves performing for the troops. And we started to take requests for music. Surprisingly, we got a lot of requests for the Beastie Boys, and this very song! Ya, we did an entire 15 minute routine to the Beastie Boys. “Girls” was our grand finale. Which everyone enjoyed. Everyone probably, but me. But in the end, I was happy to do that routine. It put a smile on our troops’ faces. And that was our job.

So I searched for a video of “Girls.” It was difficult. Because most of the YouTube videos were highly inappropriate for my blog. Oh well. I think this one is OK. You’ll get the gist of the song anyway. But still, every single time I hear this song, I see 100s of cheerleaders dancing to that ridiculous routine, we learned on very hot summer day! ♥

The Orgasm Cake

Do you really want to know the story behind this? It's actually very cute, and somewhat funny. Not sexual in anyway.

My Guy and I had been dating. Nearly 6 months. And I ask him what he wanted for his birthday. This man. The man that makes at least 9 figures a year. That has everything a man could want. I ask him. Hoping it's under $200. Because, I'm a college student, with limited funds. But I wanted to get him something special.



He thinks long and hard. For almost 2 weeks. What does he want? A cake. Yes, he told me that he wanted a "homemade cake." Like when he was little. His Mom would make him a butter cream cake, with chocolate frosting. And sprinkles. Lots of colorful sprinkles. He liked the way they'd crunch. :)

Sounded easy enough. I still managed to find him a birthday present or two. :) The perfect CD. And the 1970s sign, that he hung almost immediately. Oh, and there was that shirt. But the cake? I wanted him to have something special. Something that I had made him. That was a little bit different. Something orange flavored. He likes orange flavored things. So I looked up a ton of recipes.

That work week, it was insanity. I was working at the hospital, and performing. Oh, and My Guy was working too. We were lucky, to get 5 minutes to talk, before falling asleep at night. I never made it to the grocery store. I never bought a thing I needed.

I woke up early on his birthday. Maybe because mid-dream, I realized it was My Guy's birthday! How in the world had I forgotten to go to the store? It was just before 5AM. And I quietly made my way to the kitchen. I knew I had some miscellaneous baking supplies. But I had no clue what was in the pantry. I was praying for the butter cream cake mix and chocolate frosting. No luck...

Our dogs stared at me. While I was sitting on the floor. Staring at the 2 boxes in my hand. Chocolate cake, and strawberry cake. Chocolate sounded more manly. You know, I don't think a pink cake, would have gone over so well. In 10 minutes, it was in the oven. I was on a ladder. Looking for some frosting. Again, strawberry. Definitely not what I was looking for. I kept digging. And behind a case of Sun Drop, and an economy sized box of Cheerios, I found a container of vanilla frosting.

Well, I was 0 for 2. But I was going to make it work. I waited patiently for the cake to bake. I pulled out My Guy's presents. Which I had wrapped days before. And the card. The card that took 2 weeks to write. And I waited.

Eventually, the chocolate cake was frosted. With vanilla frosting. It looked yummy. Or maybe I was hungry. It was just after 6AM. I added some sprinkles. But it didn't seem special enough. You know, the frosting was starting to melt too. The cake was still warm. So I added some M&Ms. They were there. Staring me down on the kitchen counter. Yummy. That's what I thought.

It was not the most gorgeous cake I've ever made. I wasn't sure how it tasted. Not the way I had envisioned, celebrating My Guy's birthday. I had HUGE plans. That just didn't work out. But we had a cake. And it looked good. I've made other cakes. Beautiful ones. With elaborate designs. Beautiful frosting. And here, I was staring at this very "homemade cake." I was just hoping My Guy would like it.

In 3 trips, I made it upstairs. Presents, card, and cake. Candles included. My Guy still sound asleep. Yes, he slept through it all! He's a heavy sleeper. Doesn't like mornings. It wasn't a miracle that he was still asleep.

But when I woke him up and sang Happy Birthday, it was all worth it! That friends, was the beginning to our new "Birthday Tradition." That morning, we ate cake in bed. 2 spoons, no plates, and no napkins. The words out of My Guy's mouth, "It's like an Orgasm in my Mouth. In a good way. A totally good way." It just made me smile. :) To see him all smiles! Because I had planned something different. A fancy pants cake. With a fruit filling. And beautiful frosting work. Instead, we were digging into this cake. This cake that made him smile like that. Like a little boy, who had just had all his dreams granted.

So, yesterday I baked that same cake. And I brought it to bed. My Guy's very sleepy eyes, they lit up. And we enjoyed a little bit of sunshine. It was delicious. And I see myself making this cake, "The Orgasm Cake," for every birthday we celebrate together. You know, until the end of time! ♥