Performing with Friends

Today is going to be insanely busy! I'm performing with my friends. For El Grito de Dolores. It's well over 24 hours of performing. And in the middle of all of that, we're going to have Mariella's Birthday dinner. :)

But as busy as we're going to be, I'm very excited! Because I miss Mariachi performing. The hardcore stuff. You know, getting out and performing for hours and hours. In the middle of a fiesta. Up close to people. I've missed that. And I'm very excited for today and tomorrow!

And I'm just as excited about being with my friends again. I hope the weather holds out. But if it doesn't, I'm sure we'll still have a good time. And I'm really excited about seeing some of my favorite kiddos. They're always so fun to hangout with! ♥

Playtime Comfort Child's Top

I would LOVE to make this sweater for Sarita. She is so tiny. And girly. Oh, she is so girly! And I know that she would love this! Especially for her next, and hopefully, last stay in the hospital. My Goddaughter likes to wear things that I make her. Recently, she told me that the sweaters I make her, keep her extra warm. Made me smile. :)

I'm positive that Emma would look like a cutie pie too! And so would Maribel. I guess this Nana better get crocheting. Winter clothing is always so fun to make. Especially for sweet little girls. And I know that these little girls, like to wear the things I make them.

That always makes me, want to make them more. Because they love the things I make them. And they get so excited with their new clothes! We're not even going to talk about how excited I get, to make them new stuff. It's a win-win situation! ♥

Sancho

Sancho was my "College Sweetheart." The one that I never saw coming. At all! Because we were so different. He was the guy that all the girls were in love with. I'm not lying. Little girls, college co-eds, old ladies...they all loved him! I remember more than once, women throwing their bras at him. While we were performing!

We met when I was a freshman in college. He was incredibly polite. You could tell that his momma had raised him right. He always made it a point to talk to me. We'd see each other in rehearsals and around campus. But we never really talked. It was more like a friendly "Hi" when we'd see each other. But no hanging out. No real conversations. He invited me to his house a few times. To "Jam Sessions." I just never went.

Until the late Spring of 2003. I don't really know how it happened. Or when I let my guard down. But I did. And we started hanging out more and more. We'd go to his house and watch movies. He'd play the guitar. We'd sing together. Just hang out. Like typical musicians.

And I'd cook for us at my house. Just hanging out. Casually dating. Not telling anyone though. As you will see in later weeks, this has become a pattern with me. Keeping my relationships on the "DL." But for this relationship, at the time, it was the best decision for us.

We spent the entire summer hanging out. I'd go watch him "gig" and he'd go watch me. Pretty much every day, we'd have dinner together. While I went to class, he worked. And evenings and nights were spent just hanging out.

When classes started up again, it became a bit more complicated. We'd flirt in front of people. More like he'd flirt, I'd blush. But no one knew the truth. OK, so one of our professors/friends sorta figured it out. It was pretty obvious. If you were paying attention...

Beyond our professor, Sancho told one friend. And I told one friend. And it stayed like that. At school, we'd casually talk. Just like friends. But we'd spend every evening together. Well, when my rehearsals, and our classes permitted. We'd catch Saturday breakfasts together. It seemed to be a good day to just hangout. And it was something we'd both look forward to. :)

Yes, we worked in close quarters. But we tried to keep things under wraps. Why? I'm not sure. It seemed like a good idea. At least, at the time. We went to conferences together. And performances. But we kept our distance.

The only slip ups we ever had, were actually hilarious! It always seemed like when I was late, he was late. I'd be running in the back down. Completely flustered. And he'd be casually walking through the front door. Not a care in the world. That was us. We'd get that look. Like "What's Going On?" He'd throw a devilish smile. Shrug his shoulders. And pull his hat a little lower. I'd try to explain why I was late. I doubt anyone ever believed us. Which was funny. Because it was true.

Another time, I was seriously late. Like 45 minutes. I came running in, and it was so hot inside! Probably because I had just run 3 miles. And worked out for 2 hours. I was also dressed in 2 layers of clothes. Because it was wintertime. I had on a tank top and shorts on. And to get from the gym to school, I put on a jogging suit. When I got inside, I swear the heater was on full blast. It was at least 80 degrees inside.

I contemplated what to do. I couldn't concentrate on our class. But I knew if I took off my pants, I'd get some crazy looks. Never mind that it was so hot. And that I had on shorts underneath. So I stood there. Just trying to get through my class. After an hour, I couldn't deal. And I took off my jacket...

Sancho, he fell down. Literally! And all I heard was "Woah!" And that too familiar whistle. I wanted to crack up. To at least turn around and see if he was OK. But I didn't. I couldn't. I'd give everything up. Later, we laughed about this. Because it was funny. And I'm pretty sure, by this time more people were figuring out our dating situation.

And me, I'm sure I sucked at keeping things on the "DL." Because he'd get me all flustered. I couldn't sing or play in front of him. Forget forming sentences. More than once, I lost my train of thought, mid conversation! People would ask me what was going on. I'd just shrug and say I had no clue. But the reality was, he made me nervous!

Sancho and I got more serious after I had a serious accident. I had totalled out my car. And honestly, I was lucky to have walked away. It happened on the highway. And I was at least 16 hours late getting home. Because I was scared to drive. But my Dad put me in his truck, and sent me off. It took me almost 6 hours, to make a 3 hour drive.

When I got home that night, Sancho was waiting for me. I could barely move. I was so sore. Everything hurt. I was an emotional wreck. He was there for me. Later that week, my auntie past away. Again he was there for me. That entire week, he would stay with me. Whenever we weren't in school, he was with me. He'd take me to school and rehearsals. And in the evenings/nights he would stay with me. Make sure I was OK. Make sure I was eating. And he'd let me cry.

We were really close. And it was nice, to finally be in a decent and serious relationship. We spent as much time as we could together. Even to the point were he'd bring me lunch on Wednesdays. When I didn't have a break between classes. So we'd have a quick, 10 minute lunch under the trees. It was everything that a "college relationship" should be. Fun, easy, and full of life.

As quickly and unexpectedly as it started, it ended. I'm thinking, at some point, the secrecy of our relationship, killed our relationship. We had a big performance before our Christmas break. And like usual, we stayed separate from one another. Afterward, we did go out. With his friends. Friends away from school. And it felt so good. Like things were finally falling into place. Like it was right. Like maybe, this was going to last.

But in the morning, after everything was behind us, and we were back to school...we were back to staying apart. It was tough. I knew we both wanted to just be happy. And not worry about what other people thought. But his job, sorta depended and flourished, because he was single. Not so good when we were dating...

Well, we finished the semester. And we actually spent a few days in town. Dating. Being "normal." Because no one else was in town. And really enjoying it. We wanted for this to work. Because we made each other better. He encouraged me to be more outgoing, like him. To enjoy life. And I kinda mellowed him out. Made him a bit more responsible. And taught him a lot about life too. We were just compliments to each other. Were one of us lacked, the other made up.

It was nice to be with someone who shared my same values and morals. We could have a good time. Laugh at ourselves. Jam to our music. Just have a good time. But the break from school, lead to the breakup. Although we drove together to my hometown, but in our own cars, that was the last we seen of each other. For our Christmas break. He went his way, and I went mine.

Life got busy. I went to work. And he went to work. Performing in different groups. Living in different cities. Living our separate lives. As easily as we started dating, 7 months later, we just stopped dating. No reasons. No real explanations. No official "Break Up Talk."

We're still friends. Good friends. Between December 2003 and July 2006, we didn't talk much. Mostly our conversations were about gigs or friends. Never just the 2 of us. We'd see each other at school, and we'd say Hi. But that wasn't often. But in 2006, when I moved back up north, I lived with Sancho. He was such a good friend.

We lived together for 9 months or so. It was right when "The Big C" roared it's ugly head. He was so good and supportive. Making sure I got to doctor's appointments. Helping me to work. Yes, more than once, he'd drive me the hour to work. Because of snow, it was more like 2 hours. And he'd drive me. He took care of me when I was sick. I'm pretty sure we watched every episode of Gilmore Girls, Sex in the City, Friends, etc. We'd watch all my favorite shows and movies. I'd cook for him. We just made it work. And I think, had I stayed longer, or hadn't been sick, we would have dated again.

But life had other plans for me. And in May 2007, I moved home. After a long internship, battling health issues, and helping my parents with their business. Sancho and I are still really close. We talk at least once a week. We still perform gigs together. To me, it's important to keep him as a good friend. We've been through a lot. Both good and bad. He's been an amazing friend to me. And I would never want to lose a dear friend like him. ♥

Sunflower Lap Warmer

I seen this pattern at Free Crochet today. And it reminded me of my friend Sandy. She LOVES sunflowers! I mean really loves them! I think this would be a fun blanket to make. Whether for myself or as a gift. It's one of those projects that might take a little bit of time. But it would feel so good to complete it. Because it's like a little work of art. Don't forget to download the pattern today. ♥

Short And Sweet Child's Cardigan

I'm going to revisit the Short And Sweet Child's Cardigan. I found this pattern well over a year ago. I've made 2. One pink, and one dark maroon. Both came out adorable! Then I forgot about this pattern.

But it's so easy. And very cute. I want to make my Goddaughters each a sweater. They love the things I make. And I think they would really enjoy a cute cardigan. Like I said, this pattern is really easy. One sweater only took me about 2 hours. Now I just need to go buy some yarn. ♥

Hotlanta Date Night

On Thursday, My Guy planned an amazing "Date Night" for us. We're in Atlanta this weekend. And it's incredibly hot here! It's the South. That means craziness when it comes to the weather! But we really did enjoy the evening.

The 2 of us rarely, if ever, just go out. It's tough. He's got to find a little restaurant. Where nobody really goes. He still has to disguise himself. The whole thing. It's a lot to just go out. Even for pizza and a movie. So we stay in. Hangout in our pjs, eat dinner, and watch a good movie.

But not last night. Last night, we had a nice night out. We got dressed up, so unusual for us. And we went out to dinner. A nice dinner. Many, many courses. I haven't had that much food in forever! And it was absolutely delicious!

Do you want to talk about the dessert? That alone, could have been our meal! A plate of mini desserts surrounded a HUGE chocolate sundae. How does this happen? We definitely ate until nothing else would fit in our bellies! But our dessert looked like we hadn't touched it!

Then we went for a nice stroll around the city. It was beautiful. To be honest, I'm yet to find a Southern city that isn't beautiful! I should have moved years and years ago! At night, the city just glowed. It had a different energy. So exciting. Rich in history.

We ended our night with an old movie. Not sure where this movie theater was, I'm not familiar with Atlanta. But we got to see an old movie. This theater was like stepping into the past. It was gorgeous. Rich in architecture and history. We got to see one of my favorite movies, An Affair to Remember.

It was magical! I guess, sometimes I forget that we're a couple. A dating couple. You know, because we are so busy in life. We have so much on our plates. We both work long hours. And it's hard for us to go out on "normal dates." I think we also forget that we're a young couple. We should be out having fun. Enjoying life. But Thursday night, it was definitely an amazing night. I need to remember, to plan nights like that in the near future. ♥

Halloween Costumes

If you didn't know, Halloween is my FAVORITE holiday! No lie! I'm not sure why, it just is. So what kind of costume have I decided on? Well, My Guy and I decided to do a "Couple Costume" this year. Because we're actually going to have a Halloween Party.

My Guy has to work on Halloween, but we're going to have a party that night. And we're actually pretty excited about it. Because we never do things like this. You know how our life is. We're usually working. Or trying to stay out of the "Public Eye."

So what are we going to dress up like? Jeannie and Major Nelson! Yes, how fun is that going to be? I Dream of Jeannie is actually on of my favorite shows. :)

And they are the cutest little couple!

And I really like this costume. I'm not one for "Showing Skin." Well, other than for work. When I have to. But I have a soft spot for genies. When I was 5 years old, my Mom made me a gorgeous costume. Then between the ages of 10 and 25, I was a genie another 4 times. :) My Mom made all of my costumes!

This is the cutest costume that I could find. And it's not too trashy. Just cute.

And we're going to use this as inspiration. Cole is making our costumes. :)

I'm really excited! This is going to be a fun Halloween.

I'm really excited! I already have the gold high heeled shoes/sandals.

It's funny. Because My Guy is the one that suggested this idea. While I was watching an episode of I Dream of Jeannie.

I think it's going to be a lot of fun! I've never dressed up as a couple. Ever! In Mariachi, the BBs, and the LBs, I've had to dress up. We'd pick a theme. Because we always had to perform on Halloween. So it was like group costume. You know things like The Wizard of Oz or Flappers/Zoot Suit guys.

This year, our gigs are a week earlier. And I'm really excited about that! Because we have Halloween off. I honestly haven't had a Halloween of since I was in High School. Then we'd have a game to cheer at. I just can't wait to get our costumes from Cole. I know they are going to be amazing! ♥

Blue Eyed Babes

It's funny. My Guy was asked about kids earlier this week. As in...when is he going to have his own? Well, no one outside of his friends and family, some of my friends, and my Mom, know that we're dating. So his answer made me laugh.

You see, we've been together for almost 2 1/2 years now. We're so happy! And he is my entire world. Yes, My Guy is pretty amazing! And I LOVE him with all of my heart and soul. Yes people, when we're not together, I physically miss him. Being around him. Hearing his voice. The entire works. What I hear, he's pretty miserable without me too.

But the 2 of us, we aren't very sure about marriage. It's kind of funny. And kind of not. But we just haven't known many people that have been happily married...and who have really lasted over time. Well, besides our grandparents. And neither of us are convinced about getting married. Because, we are in a more committed relationship, than most of our married friends and family.

But it's still been nearly 2 1/2 years. And we've talked a lot. About lots of things. We share everything in our lives together. We love each other more than words can say. So the topic of kids has come up, a few times...

When my best friend called me about to die, I knew My Guy must have said something good. And he sure did. Something like..."I'm ready for some kids. I think it's the biggest accomplishment in the world to have a couple of kids. And ya know, raise 'em right. I guess I just need to get on it. Right? That's what they say. You just need to get on it and get-r-done."

Made me laugh. Because it's just him. And it's just us. That's what we want. To have a family. I'm not so sure about "jumping on it." Or what his exact words were. But I know what he was talking about.

I know that one day, we will have a couple of "blue eyed babes" of our very own. Let's just say, the blue eyes run on both his and my sides of the family. But when the time is right, I know God will send us a special bundle to love, grow, and protect. Until then, we're just happy to babysit. ♥

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. ♥

Le Giveaway

Let's start with saying that Maedchenmitherz is one of my favorite blogs. I just adore going to look at her posts. Every single day, I hop over there. Because she posts such beautiful pictures. And some fun crafts! I actually found her because I was looking for a crochet bow pattern. :)

Well, Katja has hit 303 followers. So she is hosting a giveaway. Isn't that really sweet? Maybe I should do something like that. Well, if I had more subbies. :)



The giveaway prizes include a cute hand decorated journal, a pinwheel brooch, and a cupcake charm. So cute!



So I would say, head over to Maedchenmitherz. Look around. It's a cute blog. Maybe you might also want to follow it. And then, enter her giveaway! ♥

Bubble Bath

Let me tell you my friends, I get a ton and a half questions, about what color nail polish I wear, 90% of the time. And 90% of the time, I'm wearing this beauty. OPI's Bubble Bath nail polish. It's gorgeous! A light pink. It goes well with my skin color. Which doesn't happen often. So I LOVE it when I find a "perfect" shade like this one.

I had to laugh one day. I was reading an article somewhere, and it mentioned that Giada de Laurentiis wears this color on her show. I just had to laugh. Because I really like her. And I enjoy watching her show. And I may or may have not drooled over the color on her nails. Here all along, I've been wearing the same color!

You can buy a bottle here, for $2.45. You do have to apply 2-3 coats for a beautiful result. But honestly, I don't mind. It just ends up looking amazing. This is a very classic color. And honestly, it is one of my favorites! ♥

Vintage Flour Clothing Giveaway

How can you not LOVE this dress? It's beautiful! I'm sincerely in love with it! And you have the chance to win a $50 or $100 gift certificate from Flour Clothing. Just go to this giveaway and enter. You know you won't be disappointed! ♥

No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems

Wouldn't you just give your right arm to live in a place like this? I would! In an instant! And after talking with My Guy, it appears that he would too! No lie! The "R" word has been used a time or two. Maybe we could relocate to a beautiful location like this...



And this song, it just sums up what we are currently feeling. Um, we may or may not have slept outside last night. Listening to the water, feeling the sand, staring at the stars. Don't hate. But it was gorgeous! And I'm really loving this!

At the end of the day, our lives are so very complicated! And hectic! Sometimes, I wish I could go back to my home. And hide from it all. But in the end, it's all worth it. Even the craziness that sometimes is our life. Hiding from cameras...living in the middle of nowhere. Because I have this amazing man that loves me. Just the way that I am. And I love him too! It doesn't matter if we're in paradise or in the desert. All that matters is that we love each other. :) ♥

Enzo

Here we go. Boyfriend #1...

Enzo and I grew up together. He was 2 1/2 when I was born. His mom had known my mom for years. My older brother and sister and around the same ages as his older brothers. And his aunt and uncle, they happen to be my parents' best friends. So it was just a matter of time.

When I was born, Enzo and his mom came to visit me. On the day I was born. He brought me my first teddy bear. And from then on out, we were best friends. Yes, we did everything together. From the stories we hear, Enzo always took good care of me. When I was a baby, he would share his toys and food with me. So cute!

As we got older, we still did things together. But it also involved a lot of other people. Like when he was in T-ball, and later baseball, my parents used to sponsor his team. Along with his brothers and cousins. So we spent a lot of time at the Little League fields. Me with my dolls. Him playing. Oh, and he always managed to talk his uncle, into buying me a snack. And putting up an umbrella for me. :)

My parents got married when I was 5 years old. I was really closer to being 6. And I was the flower girl. Enzo was the ring bearer. We looked adorable together. We were well behaved during the ceremony. And posed for all the pictures. We actually had a lot of fun. Including the get-t0gether at his aunt and uncles' house...post ceremony...pre reception.

At the reception, after dinner, lots of dancing, and while we were having our cake...Enzo popped the question. His parents still have the VHS. The real proof! In our eyes, getting married seemed like a lot of fun. We could dress up, have a big party, have lots of food, get tons of presents, dance, play, and have as much cake as we wanted! The thought process of a then 5 year old girl and a 8 year old boy. :)

We stayed very close over the years. We spent 80% of our free time together. Mostly because of my parents and his aunt and uncle. Friday nights were bowling nights. The adults in our lives were in a bowling league together. And the 2 of us would just hang out. We'd eat. Play. Just be kids. The rest of the time, we were hanging out at my house or his aunt and uncle's house.

Another thing we did a lot, was go to his grandparents' Ranch. It was a HUGE treat to go. And we always had a great time. Enzo was usually practicing his roping or bull riding. And I would help his grandma cook and bake. We LOVED it!

Well, when I was 12 or so, feelings started to change. By this time, we were both musicians, playing and singing in the same group. We spent a lot of time together. And well, we were young. Every time someone got married, we stood up in the wedding together. If either of us had an event to go to, the other would go with. And before we knew it, we were dating.

Yes, Enzo did ask my Dad before our first date. But I think my Dad just thought we were going out for pizza with the rest of our friends. Or something like that. By the time my Dad caught on, we were dating.

We were hilarious. Enzo taught me how to drive. How to ride a horse. And how to enjoy life. He showed me what a real, honest, and good man was. And most importantly, how I should be treated. Our parents didn't always like the fact that we were dating. But for the most part, they were OK with it. I think they figured that they knew both of us, and could trust us.

My Dad and I hit a rough patch. And when I was 14, I moved in with Enzo's family. The rules were strict. As was to be expected. I was 14...he was 17. And his mom is so "old school" that it ain't funny! We had our own bedrooms. There were about 4 rooms between us. Under no circumstance, even if the house was burning, were we to enter each other's room. Or leave our room in our pjs. It was strict. But we were more than OK with it. Oh, and we each had our own bathroom. No need for unwanted trouble there...

Not many people knew that I lived there. Probably just our parents, his brothers, and his aunt and uncle. But we made it work. His mom would take me to school on her way to work. And Enzo or his dad would pick me up from a variety of different activities I was in. And as a freshman, that increased! I probably lived there for 6 months or so. I don't know. There was a summer in the middle of the whole thing. But we made it work.

I moved back home after tragedy hit. Enzo's older brother (the middle brother) was killed. It was sudden. And really unexpected. It was an accident. And the entire family was greatly affected. After the services, and all had quieted down, I moved home. And Enzo tried to enjoy his Senior year of high school.

We went to different schools. And were 3 years apart. That in and of itself, was more than what most teen couples deal with. But now, Enzo was grieving for his brother. And I tried to be there for him. His brother was so pumped that his "little bro" was a Senior. And he wanted him to enjoy every aspect of his Senior year. So when he died in early September, well it didn't give a sunny look to the year.

Remember I said that Enzo's mom was "old school?" I mean she is really "old school." And after S died, she went into mourning. For an entire year, there was to be no celebrating, no going out, no fun, nothing enjoyable, nothing exciting. And Enzo was pulled in about 20 different directions. This was his Senior year. And he knew his brother wanted him to enjoy it. So he went to his older brother and cousins...

Well, we ended up going to his Senior Homecoming together. It was just weeks later. But when his cousin gave him an envelope that they had found, we had to go. S was an amazing man! He enjoyed life. And thought you should live every single second to it's fullest. S had saved money. And put it away for Enzo. $200 for each of the 3 dances that he would have that year. $300 for his Senior Rodeo event. And $500 to go on his Senior trip. $600 for his graduation party. With a letter that would make anyone cry.

I always thought it was so weird that he had all of this saved for his little brother. And the letter. Almost like he just knew. Like he knew that this accident would happen. But it made Enzo realize that he still needed to live. And now, more than ever. Because he had to live for both he and his brother.

We went to Homecoming. Enzo bought me a dress, shoes, the whole works. And we went out to a nice dinner. Had fun. It was the first time I had seen him smile since his brother had past away. And we went with all of our friends afterward, to the Family Ranch. We sat there, watching the sunrise. Enjoying the moment. And later, having a breakfast, that his grandma had made.

2 days later, he had moved in with his cousin. And he wouldn't say a word. But I found out, his mom and him had a pretty bad fight. And in the end, she told him either he was going to mourn and be sad, or he was going to move. And he moved. It was hard on him. His family had been so close. But he moved.

And the 2 of us still dated. I could tell how much he missed his brother. And his mom. Because his dad and him still talked. They would meet for dinner or breakfast a couple of times a week. And Enzo was just trying to get through his Senior year. The best way he could. But he was hurting.

Shortly after his Winter Ball, I could just tell he was miserable. He was going to Harvard the following Fall. Something that I may or may not have had a hand in. ;) And I think he just knew that he would probably not talk to his mom before that. No matter how many times he tried to talk to her, she wouldn't talk to him. And it pained me. It really broke my heart. Because he was miserable. It was like he had lost 2 people in his life.

On Valentine's Day, he planned a big night out for us. Just the 2 of us. His cousin was out of town with his wife. My parents were out of town. And the 2 of us were just going to enjoy Valentine's Day. His tia helped him to make a beautiful and delicious dinner. We got all dressed up. And well...I just couldn't do it. I knew he was miserable deep down inside. Part of him was missing. The sparkle was gone from his eyes. He wasn't the same man I had fallen in love with. He needed to fix things.

Yes folks, on Valentine's Day, we broke up. It was mutual. I knew I had to let him go. That would be the only way him and his mom would talk before he left for college. And he needed that. He needed to know that they were OK before he moved across the country. I was devasted. Enzo was crushed. I was 15...he was 18.

For the next few months, we barely talked. I would go to his games. I still wore his Letterman's Jacket. But we hardly spent time together. I knew he had started speaking to his mom. But he hadn't moved back. Then one night, he came to see me. He wanted me to go with him to his Senior Prom. And I said yes. Because I still loved him. So much. And I wanted him to be OK. To be honest, I really missed him too.

We went. And we had a great time! We danced all night. Had so much fun. It was like "old times." All of us even headed to the Ranch afterward. As the sun was rising, the 2 of us sat on the mountain, in our Prom gear, just taking in the view. It was magical. And deep down inside, I knew that was probably the last time I'd ever be in his arms again. The last time I'd listen to his strong and steady heartbeat. The last time I'd feel his breath on my neck. The last time I'd feel that safe.

A week later, he moved in with his parents. 4 days later, he had graduated. And 3 days after that, we were at his graduation party. The following day, he was moving. And starting college in the summer. I was devastated! I didn't know which way was up. I was 15...he was 18. We didn't have much say in our lives. I was still a kid. Even if I felt like a grown up. I was only 15.

He asked me to marry him. With a big diamond ring. He wanted to be with me forever. And I didn't know what to say. I was too young. My Dad would never go for it. And we both knew it. We didn't know what to say to one another. And Enzo moved. His mom was sad. His parents now had an "empty nest." And she would call me all the time. She wanted to know how he was. I knew about as much as she did...I had no clue!

This was my first year as a Varsity Cheerleader. And I used that as a good excuse. To stay busy. Because when I wasn't busy, I thought of him. The man that I loved. He was truly a man. And the most caring man that I knew. I missed him every second of the day. Because he wasn't just my ex-boyfriend, he was my oldest and very best friend in the world. My "breastest friend ever!"

At the end of that summer, we started to talk. And talk a lot! No one else knew. But we probably talked 3-4 times a day. And then, we decided that we'd try a long distance relationship. No lie! When he came home for the holidays, no one was the wiser. The 2 of us, were out on dates. Yes, we would have to drive an hour north, so we didn't get caught, but we didn't care. :)

But it didn't last. And from my Sophomore year to my Senior year, we dated off and on. He was busy in school. I was busy in school. We lived on opposite sides of the country. My Senior year was filled with trips, cheerleading, and college applications. That was his first year in med school.

When I got accepted to Harvard, he was more excited than I was. Because were he could afford it, I couldn't. His family has some serious cash. And he is heir to it all. That's the way his grandparents wanted it. Me? I had a full tuition and fees scholarship. But oh ya, there was still room and board, books, and living expenses. Oh, and my parents didn't want me leaving the state. Enzo, he was willing to support me. He had the money. But I just wasn't sure. And I definitely didn't need to start WWIII with my parents...

So I stayed. But I went to the furthest university I could. 3 hours away. And I bought a home. Yes, I bought a house when I was 18 years old! Dear Enzo, he had a gorgeous home too! And the 2 of us, once again, started a great romance. Thousands of miles couldn't separate us! I do think that 9/11 had something to do with us wanting to be together. It was like we were being sent this message. That something this special, was worth fighting for.

It was tough to say the least. But we tried. We talked on the phone a lot. Anytime Enzo had time off, he'd come and see me. And when we went home for the holidays, we just played like we hadn't seen or talked in months. It was a bit crazy. But it worked. Well, for a while.

One day, someone found out. I don't know who. But in no time, my Dad and his mom also knew. And that's when the fire started. For some reason, they didn't like us dating. But when we were dating, all they wanted was for us to be apart. And when we were apart, they wanted us to date each other. It was weird. And so complicated.

Well, we eventually broke up. Because it became too much. And he was in med school. I was dealing with very sick family members. And we just couldn't make it work. In the end, we loved each other more than life itself. Once, we even walked into "The Little White Chapel." And we were going to get married. Last minute, we walked out. That's how close it got. As adults, he gave me 3 engagement rings. But we just couldn't change our parents. And for us, that was the nail in the coffin. Because they mean too much to us.

Years later, his grandma died. And in her Will, she left everything to me and Enzo. The family still had hopes that we'd make it work. We were supposed to be the couple that took over for his grandparents. We were the "meant-to-bes." "We" just never really happened.

But now, we are the best of friends. We want nothing but the best for each other. And since we both live in the eastern part of the US now, we get to see a lot of each other. Enzo and My Guy happen to be great friends now too. They go on hunting trips together. And when I needed an internship out here, Enzo was the guy I turned to. Yes he was! And when the Big C happened, it was Enzo that totally stepped up to the plate. That was before I met My Guy.

Enzo took leave from his job to come take care of me. And he still takes care of me. Making sure that I'm OK. And doing 90% of my medical stuff himself. Yes, he is an amazing friend. And an incredible man. In the end, we weren't right for each other. We weren't the "perfect couple." But we were meant to be best friends for life. ♥

Chilaxing

Marie's Lingerie Party was a total success! And we had a blast! She left with so much lingerie, it was actually hilarious! Honestly, I can't imagine having better friends than I have. They really are amazing.

But right now, My Guy and I have our feet stuck in the sand. Enjoying the beach, sun, and some beautiful waves. I wish you could be here with us. But you know, even we have to get away for a day or so. :)

But this song, it just reminds me a bit of My Guy. I don't know what it is. Beer? Good times? Laid back? Probably all of them. Even if he only has a single beer on Mondays. The man cracks me up! But there you go. You know a little more about the man I love!

Back to relaxing with my love. He really does look pretty handsome. Just relaxed. In fact, I think he has fallen asleep. It's simply a beautiful day! Happy Sunday! ♥

Past Relationships

I'm always being asked about my past relationships. How I met the men I've dated. What happened? And how did I get to this point in my romantic life? So here goes nothing! For the next few weeks, on Mondays, I'm going to post about my past relationships. I'm going to do it in order of my dating experience. I hope this goes OK. But you wanted to know. So I'm going to share. See you tomorrow! ♥

Marie's Lingerie Party

How do I know that I'm getting older? Well, I'm hosting things like Baby Showers, Bridal Parties, and today...a Lingerie Party. It's for my good friend, Marie. She's getting married at the end of September. And we happen to be very close. Because she is one of my dancers, for when I perform. :)

My Guy has been really great about the whole thing too! He has endured long nights of me searching the internet for the perfect invitations, decorations, fabric, games, prizes, etc. I've spent hours making things. And even longer planning things. He's been great! Even though our home is starting to look like "Party Central!"

My Guy even gave up his trip to "Tropical Paradise," to come with me to my hometown. How did we mess that up? I still don't know. I swore that we planned this party on a week that he was working. But on his "Off Weekend" he came with me, to the desert. Don't feel too bad for him! We're still going to the beach for a few days. :)

But I wanted this to be special for Marie. She is 1 of 6 ladies that dance with me. We're all close. And actually, Josie is planning a wedding for this coming Spring. To say that we're all close, well that doesn't quite say enough. We're like sisters.

So I hope today is just perfect. I hope it's everything that Marie expected, and so much more! A few months ago, we had her Bridal Shower. Very beautiful, and classy. All her family and friends were there. But this party, it's more of a fun night for Marie. Just to let her hair down, and enjoy her upcoming nuptials.

And it's going to be an all day adventure. Starting with mani-pedis. And maybe some fun hairstyling. Then we're going out for lunch. And some shopping. You know, we have to have a little fun! Just the 10 of us are going out together. That includes our 3 other friends....Manders (MUA), D (2nd MUA), and Cole (Our Stylist.) Should be fun!

But tonight, there will be a whole lot more friends there. I'm making Tapas for the party. One of our favorite things ever! And I'm sure that Mr. G will enjoy the loot that Marie collects tonight. What man doesn't like beautiful lingerie on his "Lady Love?" ♥

Lily Wedge Slingback

So I did a little shopping today. I was actually looking for some black ballet flats. And I was driving by a Payless. I couldn't resist. Inexpensive and cute shoes. So I went to Payless. I found my ballet flats, but I couldn't resist the BOGO. And I picked up these babies!

Aren't they adorable? And they are so incredibly comfy! I might just have to wear them for Marie's girly day tomorrow. I'm seriously in love! And they were under $20. It was definitely a great buy! ♥

I LOVE this Blanket!!!

I'm currently IN LOVE with this blanket! No lie. I just think it's fun. And so whimsical. Something about it, just makes me smile. Oh, I found it on Cakies. I just love this blog in general. Everything is so full of color. But this blanket, it just makes me smile. I might have to make one soon. For who? Maybe my "Soon-to-be-Here-Goddaughter." I think it would be so fun! ♥

Purple Smokey Eyes

I'm a "Brown Eyed Girl." And a performer. So makeup, it's just part of my life. I have an amazing friend and MUA...all in one. Mrs. Manders. And she does an amazing job with my makeup.

But before her, it was a lot of trial and error. Mostly error. I'm not going to lie. And where in the heck were my friends? They let me go out in public like that! Blue eye shadow, pink cheeks, and those lips...it was not good. Even in my red, white, and blue cheerleading uniform!

But a few tricks that I've learned along the way, and have really enjoyed, are mostly regarding technique. Good technique means you can wear almost any color and look. :) Makes me really happy!

I've also learned that I really enjoy a nice smokey eye. Even for an "Every day" look. You just have to adjust the colors, to where you are going. You know, I'll wear a nice neutral-brown smokey eye for work at the hospital. But I'll wearing a teal smokey eye to a gig. Especially when we wear our teal trajes. Heck, my favorite, is a good, old-fashion black smokey eye. With a red lip. Very nice for both mariachi and pin-up style performing.

And lastly, a good purple is amazing for us "Brown Eyed Gals!" I'm really liking Kandee's take on it too! Grab some purple eye shadow, and lets start playing! You know, makeup is a lot of fun when you don't end up looking like a clown. I had enough of those days in high school. Now, it's all about fun and elegance. ♥

Chocolate Cake Heaven!

In case you don't know it, I LOVE chocolate. Any kind. Any way. Just thinking about it, makes my mouth water. Well, I'm having a killer craving right now. For this chocolate cake!

I was doing a google search. For what? I don't even remember. But I saw this cake. And clicked on the link. And found this blog post, with this cake! You know, it's the middle of the night here. And if I wasn't already in my pjs, I'd go to the store for the ingredients. No lie!

So a spoonful or 2 of Nutella will have to do for tonight. But you can bet your life on it, I'm going to be making this cake. Very soon! ♥

Sewing Calendar Giveaway

There is a giveaway going on over at Happy Together. For this amazing sewing calendar! Don't you just love it? 2 of my favorite things together. A calendar, and sewing goodness! Head over to Happy Together and enter this giveaway. You know you want to! ♥

Kumbia Kings

I have a little confession, I really miss the Kumbia Kings. They were one of my favorite bands. It's so sad, that stupid things can break up such amazing talent. I've actually experienced this first hand. The music business is tough. But I completely understand A.B.'s reasons. It's just sad when great music like this, comes to end. Very similar to the way I feel about Selena. Both are great loses to the fans. The Kumbia Kings did come together briefly last year. And I for one, hope that this is the beginning of a new chapter for the band. ♥

Home Sweet Home

It's nice to be home. And on a Sunday. That almost never happens. My Guy, he happens to still be asleep. Which is a nice change of pace for us. I'm so proud of him. And everything he did yesterday. I'm just so proud of him!

As for today? Well, I'm thinking a day of nothingness. That doesn't happen much. And My Guy has to return to work on Tuesday. So we're going to take advantage of our down time. I'm also going to enjoy my fuzzy, pink flamingo slippers.

Oh Sunday, how I love you! A little church. A little being lazy. And a whole lot of time with My Guy. And our fur babies. Nothing is better than this! ♥

Zumba

I happen to really like working out. Being sick, I don't always get to. But I try. I especially like running. Outside. Not on a treadmill.

And because of his job, My Guy also has to workout. He doesn't quite share my love of it. But he has to workout. His trainer comes to the house in the mornings. Um, probably not the best. My Guy is also not a morning person. That's how I started working out with his trainer...

So I have a good 90-120 minute workout Monday-Thursday. We do lots of weight training and cardio stuff. But on the weekends, My Guy and I are usually on our own. Because we're on the road. So I have to figure things out. My Guy gets a good workout from his work. Me? I run. And I depend on fun workouts. Like pilates, yoga, various exercise tapes...and now...Zumba.

It's probably been about 2 1/2 years since I first discovered it. And I LOVE it! It's like dancing. Not working out. And I happen to LOVE to drag my friends with me. Until my bestie got pregnant, we used to go to at least 1 class a week together. Lots of times, it was much more than that. :)

But honestly, if you're looking for a fun workout, one that is mostly dancing, this is the one you should try! It's so much fun! ♥