First Love...Not That Kind of Love...

I'm knee deep in orders. Of the crochet kind. We have a Craft Fair coming up soon. And I just can't keep up. Not to mention, the 10 babies coming in the next month. I know! Between my friends and family, it just never ends...

But this little set, has been requested. And I might have spent 2 days, at work, searching for this pattern. Yes, between patients. And rounds. Occasionally, while on the elevator. :)

I finally found the pattern. And made sure to save it. To 5 different devices. This was nuts! And websites, they irritate me to death. Once they publish a pattern online, I think it should be made available forever. Maybe that's just me...complaining. But that's that.

I'm just happy to have a pattern. And at least 1 week, to finish this order. Cross your fingers and your toes, that everything else in my life, goes as smoothly. It's been a tough week around here. Please keep my Dad in your prayers. He needs it...

 ♥Besitos

College Friends

Just the other day, I was thinking back to college. Heck, back to high school. I wonder where most of my friends went...

It's definitely not a secret, that I'm ridiculously shy! And even though I tried, there are very few people from my past, that I still talk to. Why? Not even I'm sure of this. Maybe life just gets busy. Maybe my family is so big, that I sometimes puts friend on the back burner. Maybe, we just weren't meant to be friends.

I look back to high school. And the friends I had. I had "cheerleader friends." Almost 100% of them, would not have been my friend outside of our sport. We had a common goal. We talked. But it was nothing ever too deep. I regret that I let a few of those girls, just disappear. Once in a great while, I chat with someone on Facebook. In the first few years that I was out of high school, I unfortunately would stay quiet, when I'd see some of these friends. I regret that!

My closer friends, I tried to stay in touch with them. Most of us went to different universities. Not that it should matter, but just that one detail, had us going in different directions. Others of us, went to the same university, but found different interests. I would say, for the most part, I was on a very different path. I bought a house when I was 18 years old. And was solely supporting myself. Tough stuff.

But college friends. I think of them the most. I don't know why. Maybe because they shaped a lot of my life. We were on the same path. Starting out on our careers. Learning about the world. We spent countless hours studying together. And eventually, beginning our careers together.

M always comes to mind. We met on my first day of college. The only 2 students in the music program, that morning, that weren't in band. We sat and talked. Which became our "routine" for the next year. Eventually, we'd both move on from music. But we'd continue our friendship. Having lunch together, a few times a week. After graduation, boyfriends, and moves...we're still friends. Calling and texting, between field trips and surgeries. It's funny how these things work out.

I think of friends like Mer, Mac, Jeni, Matt, and Jorge. We went through a lot. And I mean A LOT together! But as we'd overcome our obstacles, and pass our classes, we started to lose touch. I had close friends from dietetics and medicine, that I've remained friends with. But these 5 always come to mind. Long hours in class, crazy labs, and even longer hours cramming for exams. I wonder what happened to everyone...

I think of my Target family. 99.9% of us were in college at the time. Struggling with work, going to class, and just flat out staying awake. It was tough! But we made it through all that. I think of Miss "I'm going to sing my worries away." And little Miss Sassy Pants. Our manager was pretty awesome too! From time to time, I'll run into someone on Facebook. Mostly Mr. "I'm going to save the world Fernando." :)

Friendships don't always sail into the sunset, 2 friends laughing away, life going great. Big rifts happen. To even the closest of friends. Like Miss "Wanna be a Chicana, mariachi playing, John Denver loving mujer." We were close. Talking daily. Laughing our cares away. Probably annoying everyone in our path! And then 1 day, 1 disagreement, destroyed our friendship. Maybe I was too quick to react. Or she was too quick to judge. Or we really were not meant to be friends. I guess we'll never really know...

I had a ton of "friends" in music. I don't know if you'd call us friends. We would meet in rehearsal. Some of us, like P and I, would occasionally meet for dinner. Or shopping. Maybe a 2 hour convo on the phone. There was that weird girl, that I just can't remember her name. Just that she played the trumpet, scared me half to death, and stalked me way too long! All because I told her Hi one day...

And that last scary situation, is probably why I kept most people at arm's length. I regret that a lot these days. I think of all the things I could have done, while I was in college. The mariachi groups I could have played in. The people I could have become friends with. But that girl, she scared me to death! And to be honest, I thought they'd all turn into scary stalkers. That somehow, figured out where I lived. That had me, shaking in my boots!

There were nice guys in symphony and mariachi. Yes, I said guys. Because at the end of the day, most of them were guys. They were nice. For the most part. There was A and G that pissed me off one day. And that was it. This fiery Chicana went all Burque on their butts. Walked out of the Mariachi class, and never looked back.

Out of all the people I ever encountered in college, it was the mariachi players, that I wished I had become closer to. They were nice people. Always inviting me to jam, or even join their groups. And there was me...scared to death. Afraid to talk. I do believe that my teacher G, tried some crazy stuff, to get me to connect with these talented musicians. Some days, I swear he was trying to play matchmaker. Maybe it was just bad timing, but before you knew it, I was elbow deep in petri dishes. :)

I often wonder, especially now that I'm home, how things could have worked out differently. I wonder if those few, returned home. To the northern part of our state. I'm pretty sure, that's were P told me, they were from. I wonder if they still play music. If they have a group. If they'd even want a musician like me, to be in their group. Maybe I'm just lonely, and need some musician friends. Maybe I just yearn for those nights filled with music. Maybe, I just need to be a better friend in the future...

 ♥Besitos

Casa de Chimayo

A few weeks ago, I headed up north. It was just for the day. To CSV Hospital. We were doing some "Career Connecting" activities. Trying to improve the health of our state. It was a nice change of pace for me. Something that I needed.

While in the glorious capital city, we hit our familiar road block. Where to eat? This happens all the time. I really need to become pals, with some of our pals to the north. Like usual we headed to Pascual's for breakfast. I can never get tired of this "hole in the wall."

For lunch, we usually head up to Tomacita's. Honestly, it's one of our favorites! Just a little local place. That used to serve up some delicious treats. I say USED TO, very sadly. The last few times we've been there, it has been pretty horrible. I don't know if it was sold recently. Or if the quality has just changed. I tell you, I need to become friends with some locals. They always have the inside scoop.

On a chance outing, Dr. M and I, ran into Casa de Chimayo. Hello! Did we just walk into mi tia's casita? It was so cozy. Cute. And delish!!! One of my new favorite places. If I hadn't been a rush, to get home, I probably would have had dinner there too. No lie!

The food tasted like something my family would cook. At home. The pure red chili. The incredible enchiladas. The frijoles. Holy frijoles! Just like home!!! The way I LOVED this comida, it's a good thing I don't live nearby. I'd be 100lbs heavier! In fact, I should probably go run 10 miles right now. ;)

But for reals, I need to find an amigo or 2, up north. I have a feeling, that I'm going to be working more and more, in our beautiful capital. And I really need to expand my stops in the capital. For the most part, I hang out, in and around the plaza. I'll stop by the outlets from time to time. And maybe, I'll look around the mall. I'm just not too familiar with this town.

I'm definitely not lying about this! I still go to that same Wendy's, that as a cheerleader, we would stop at before and after games. Same goes for the McD's, that we'd have breakfast at, when I was in Student Government. And let's just be honest, until recently, every trip to the capital, included a trip to Tomacita's. Locals, let me know where I should be stopping.

♥Besitos

Made Me Laugh!

For all sorts of reasons, this video makes me laugh. My best friend was looking up something on YouTube yesterday. And she got this. Low and behold, my guerita best friend watched it! Personally, I think that she is missing home a lot...

Anyway, this just makes me laugh. I know some of the guys in this group. How did she just find this video? I dance somewhat like this when I perform. Albeit, we don't "try" so hard. And we have learned more complicated steps. But that's what we do. By the way, Albert is the better dancer in this video. Do you think they could use a 3rd dancer? :)

But this video just made me smile. It reminded me of home. It reminded me of Mariachi, dancing, and performing. Things that I really miss. I feel like my life is missing a lot at the moment. But mostly, I'm missing all the "Cultura."

I guess what I'm getting at is, that I want to get back involved, full time, in Mariachi again. Or maybe take the leap, and start Ballet Folklorico. Either way, I need to find some live Mariachis to watch. And soon! ♥Besitos

More Dreams

Yesterday, I woke up a little uneasy. Maybe it was the stress of the Baby Shower. Or that I'm surprising my best friend with 2 things today. I don't know. But I had some wild dreams!

My first dream was about D. I had bought my grandparents house in the mountains. And I was living there. I had completely cleaned everything out. And I was doing some major work to the house. Transforming rooms into other things. It was a little nuts to be honest. The yard was all grass. No animals. And lots and lots of flowers.

And I walked out of the house and into the front part of their yard. I had on some jeans, a t-shirt, some old shoes, an apron, and a hanky wrapped around my head. I looked like a little housewife. Covered in dust and what not.

D came out from my grandparents' neighbors' house. Apparently, he had bought the place. And now, we were neighbors. Totally wild! But we decided to head into "town" for a bite to eat. Apparently, the community had a "town" now. With little shops, a restaurant, and a Post Office. So weird! My parents' Car Club was at the restaurant. Having their monthly breakfast.

Sometime between D and I leaving for the restaurant, and us getting there, we became a couple. Crazy! And everyone knew us. Knew that we were together. My Dad actually liked him. It was insanity! I woke up as the 2 of us were walking down the dirt road, back to our homes. Holding hands...

My 2nd dream, well it wasn't much better. It was like I woke up. Rolled over. And went back to sleep. My dream, it had me getting married! I was planning the wedding. The "groom-to-be," I never saw his face. Not once! We shopped, booked various things, planned our wedding.

Heck, we bought a house! It was so wild. But so "life-like." It just made me wonder. What the heck is going on. My dream ended with me and this man getting married. I can still see all the details of our wedding and reception so vividly!

It was nuts. But this morning, I had a totally crazy dream. I was marrying a friend. We'll call him TM. He was once a music teacher of mine. And we became fast friends. After I left the music stuff behind at school, we became even better friends. Isn't that weird how that works? In real life, TM and I are really good friends.

But in this dream, he was still a professor. And I was still a student. A mutual friend, in real life she was one of my best friends, we'll call her LG. Well, LG found out that TM and I were dating. LG and I were students. TM was a professor. And just like in real life, LG was "head over heels" for TM. It didn't leave me in a very good place.

I was studying something different. Something to do with cooking. So it was OK to date TM. We weren't breaking any rules or anything. But one day, LG found TM and I kissing. She blew up and starting screaming at us. Then TM asked what her problem was. Because he loved me. Yes, those were the words he used. He turned around. And I became visible. I had a big wedding ring on. And was visibly pregnant!

What in the world? She ran to the President's office. Which was across campus. And our President said there was nothing wrong with TM and I being married. I was in a different field. He wasn't a professor of mine. LG was very angry. She was yelling at everyone. Couldn't believe I had done this. Then I woke up.

It's crazy! My dreams are becoming more and more vivid. With people I know. Mimicking aspects of my real life. It's a little scary. LG and I are no longer friends. In large part because of TM. But that was a very difficult situation. One that I might blog about down the line. For now, I need to get up and get ready. Hopefully, these wild dreams will end soon. Because I'm really not getting any rest when I sleep. ♥Besitos

Quick Easy Updo Hairstyle

Today is my best friend's Baby Shower. There is still so much to do! I'm glad that I'm co-hosting it with lots of friends! But, I need to get ready. And since D bought us all a new dress, that's one less thing I have to worry about. Now, my biggest worry is my hair...

Um, the east coast isn't so kind to hair like mine. It's a wreck! I'm not sure what I can do to tame it. And instead of trying to tame it, I'm thinking I'll go "all natural." But I don't want to scare anyone. So I'm going to try this hairstyle when my hair dries. It looks nice. ♥Besitos

Surprising My Best Friend

It's like 6:30AM here. I'm on the east coast. And I'm lucky to have gotten 2 hours of sleep. We got here in the middle of the night. And immediately, I went to work on the nursery surprise for my best friend.

It's been crazy! But I'm OK, I actually just landed. You see, my friend is the one that got me here. I couldn't afford to come. But he knew how special it would be for my best friend. Oh, and he's my boss. We'll call him D. So D flew out to get me yesterday. And we're going to be my best friend's baby's Godparents. Did you get that? My best friend wasn't expecting me until later today. But this morning, I was put on a helicopter to come and surprise her. Right now, I'm in a car, on my way to pick her up! She thinks I'm still back home, trying to catch a flight. :)

H, my best friend, has a doctor's appointment today. And I get to be there. I'm so excited! I can't wait to see what her little girl looks like. Heck, I can't wait to see my best friend! Oh, and her Baby Shower is tomorrow!

So the surprises that we have planned...a nursery at D's house. And a surprise Baby Shower on Sunday. Yes, a 2nd shower for all of her friends that have to work tomorrow. It's a long story. But there are going to be 2 showers!

I probably should get going. I'm sure we're almost there. And all I want to do, is enjoy this time with my friend. She is amazing. She has been through so much! And well, H just needs a little "Girl Time." I know that the last few months haven't been to easy on her. So I'm off to help her enjoy her weekend. :) ♥Besitos

Let's Talk About...

Last week, I touched on the subject of sex. It was brief. But it was there. And it got me thinking...

When I was growing up, my parents never talked to me about sex. Never. They never told me that it was good or bad. Never said that I should stay away from it. We never had "The Talk." My Mom didn't really say much to me when I started my period. In fact, I probably waited about 18 months before even telling her.

But we did have a lot of sex education in school. I was in 1st grade, 6 years old, when I had my first sex education class. The girls and boys were split up. We left there knowing that boys had testicles and a penis. They knew we had a vagina and one day would have breasts. We saw horrible 50-70s sex ed materials. I honestly thought I had fallen into a time warp. But we learned.

By the time we were in 5th grade, and about 11 years old, sex ed was held in the gym. All of us together. We had been shown horrible 1950s sex ed material. Saw what 80 year old men and women looked like naked. They were drawn pictures. But still, it was horrible! All of our questions were answered. We saw real life pictures of what our bodies would look like from the time we were babies until we were 90. The pictures of that old man, they still haunt me!

But we knew things. Like what sex really was. That we could get AIDS from unprotected sex. We knew what condoms were. And why they were used. Our teachers answered every single question we had. Including the very pregnant 5th grade teacher. I can't remember her name. But they answered everything. Including how the very petite teacher could have sex with her very tall husband.

Then we went to middle school. Another year of sex ed. The boys had to learn about us girls. And our periods, cramps, pads, tampons, and our hormones. We learned that boys woke up with "hard ons" and that they quite liked to "play with themselves." It was a very open class.

In high school, we had 1 more year of sex ed. It was all about pregnancy and diseases. We saw real life pictures of infected vaginas and penises. We watched birthing videos. We talked about it all. About the kids in our school that were expecting babies. The ones that were "doing it" in the baseball dug outs, and under the bleachers. We talked about the pleasure that came from sex. And the consequences. we learned about it all. We even had a teacher that had an entire drawer full of condoms. They were free for the taking. No questions asked.

I never talked to my parents about it. But I did talk to both of my grandmas. I also talked to family friends. Oh, and my older friends. Most of which were male. It was nice to get their take on the subject. Their views on sex and women. It was just nice to talk to a guy and not be embarrassed. Thank goodness for older, wiser friends. :)

My best friend and I, well we talked to each other about it all! I still remember for her 8th or 9th birthday. I went to her house. Like normal, for a birthday sleepover. We'd spend the entire weekend at each other's house for our birthdays. And the minute I got into her room, she closed the door. She pulled down her pants and her underwear and asked if I had any of this...pointing to her pubic hair. I laughed and told her mine was darker. Um, she is a blond, and I'm a brunette. We also sat and talked about our growing new friends...our new breasts. Does "We must, we must, we must increase out bust" come to mind? :)

We had the period talk that weekend too. Her grandma actually supplied us with enough pads and tampons to last us each 18 months. That's the reason I didn't tell my parents when I got my period. Her grandma, she was the only one that ever really talked to us. You know, outside of school. She told us about everything. Yes, we were young. But somebody had to talk to us.

But we learned. I also grew up in the 80s. A time when sex was all over TV. I watched 90201 and Melrose Place. I was 7 years old. My parents didn't seem to mind. And anytime you put on MTV, there was some special about AIDS. I learned how to put on a condom on a banana. I was probably 7 or 8. And I was watching TV.

There were so many "After School Specials" on network TV, that it wasn't funny! They wanted us to know about sex, AIDS, and condoms. And our generation learned. It was everywhere we looked. And at some point, you had to learn something, from all the information that was flooding our lives.

That's what happened during my generation. TV taught us a lot. School taught us a lot. We weren't afraid to talk about sex. We talked about it. My niece, she's 7 years younger than me. She never had a day of sex ed from K-12th grade. This year, she's a senior. And she honestly doesn't know much about the consequences of sex. Heck, not much about sex in general.

Much was changed since I was in school. Since I first started school. Parents were upset because we were taught so much. But I don't see it as a bad thing. We were well informed. These days, honestly what are the kids being taught? Do they really know about all the STDs and what being a parent is all about? ♥Besitos

Mother Of The Bride Shawl

Do you see this shawl? I kind of really like it. I'm thinking of making it for my best friend. I know it was designed for the "Mother of the Bride." But I'm thinking it would be a nice gift for a certain expecting mommy...my best friend. What do you think?

Um, I have less than a week before I head east, to visit her. My best friend's baby shower is the 11th. And after talking to her recently, she needs a "pick me up." Yes, I'm pretty sure she'd like a few presents for herself. I've been shopping too!

I better get working though. It doesn't look like a tough pattern. I just need to get busy. It's a good thing I picked up some beautiful yarn today. ♥Besitos

Huh?

I have this friend from high school. She was a devote Christian. And was always into the Lord. And doing what was right. I was raised a Roman Catholic. And we shared lots of the same values. And I respected the differences between our beliefs and religions. I figured, what works for you, well, it works for you. What works for me, it works for me. But we're all worthy, no matter what we believe.

At the end of my sophomore year, we went to a friend's house. We were all cheerleaders. And it just felt like it was time to share. Just the 4 of us. We were hanging out. Eating a snack. And I think we were waiting to go to a baseball game or something.

It was like clear your mind and your heart day. My best friend on the team, he told us all about his relationship with his girlfriend. And his OCD. Our other friend, the senior, told us about her relationship with her boyfriend. He was a bit older. And she was just this sweet girl. I don't even remember what I talked about. I was not very good at sharing. And my life wasn't terribly interesting.

But this one friend. She shocked us all! She had had an abortion the year before. She was in a Christian School. And one day, she slept with a much older guy. She specifically said that he was a Mexican construction worker. What that had to do with it, I still don't know. But I remember that. And when she found out that she was pregnant, she asked her mom to take her for an abortion.

That's essentially why her and her sister ended up at our school. Our public school. I guess, she didn't want people to know. But she trusted the 3 of us. I felt bad for her. You could see that it still bothered her. But, I figured, she had done what was best for her.

Fast forward. Maybe 4 years ago, I found her on MySpace. And we started chatting again. She had devoted herself to the church. Had decided to go to TCU. And was doing good. Then, she got pregnant. This time, the guy and her decided to get married. I was excited for her. She seemed to be getting her life in order. And she got married. about 4-6 weeks before their daughter was born.

Now, they have a 6 month old little boy, and a 2 1/2 year old little girl. Her husband is working hard to be a preacher. And they seem so happy.

But I was shocked when I seen her Facebook Status not too long ago. 50% of all pregnancies in the US are unplanned and unwanted. (I knew that. I work for the DOH.) Of those, 4 out of 10 end in abortion. (I also knew that.) But it's the next part that shocked me! She wrote, "Abortion is wrong. It's sinful. Any mother who aborts her innocent child is going to hell. The Lord shall not forgive her. She is like the devil himself. This is unacceptable. How can any person act in such a sinful way. How can anyone give of themselves before marriage."

Um, do you see why I'm angry? She obviously had sex at least twice before marriage. She was pregnant twice, before ever walking down the aisle. She also had an abortion. Yes, she was a young teen. But still, it happened.

And this is what makes me mad. She is judging other people. That's wrong in so many ways! You don't know the circumstances that these women and girls are going through. Or what they're thinking.

My own mom, she told me that when she was pregnant with my older sister, she considered an abortion. My mom was 19. And got married solely because she was pregnant. But she didn't think they could give their baby a good life. So she considered an abortion. So much so, she was sitting in the clinic. At the last moment, she left. And then, after my sister was born, she considered giving her up for adoption. My mom still thinks about this a lot. Because she feels like maybe she could have had a better life. And maybe my sister may have as well.

I also know women who have been rapped. And who have become pregnant. It was hard for them. But they couldn't imagine raising a baby that was created during a rape. Everyone has a different story. A different reason. And no one has the right to judge. What may be right for you, could be horribly wrong for someone else. Put yourself in their shoes.

Going back to the numbers. Essentially 20% of pregnancies in the US end in abortion. Is it right? Or is it wrong? I feel like I can't judge. I've never been in that situation. But I do have young cousins, nieces, and nephews who have children. They shouldn't. But they do. If it were an option for them, would their lives have turned out better? Could they have done better for themselves and future children?

I don't see the HUGE issue in this subject. Because I think each person has the right to make those decisions for themselves. The problem I see is, when 12 year olds are having sex. What's up with that? Or when parents have no clue where their 13 year old is 2AM? Or think it's hilarious that their 15 year old is having sex in their home.

Let me tell you, I'm 27. My Dad would smack the crap out of me, if I took a guy to his house, to "hook up." Or if we were "making out" in front of him. Or "feeling each other up." That's just not acceptable in my house. But that's the way I was raised. To show and have respect.

It just makes me wonder. I mean, no one should be afraid of sex. But there should also be some responsibility that comes along with it. I mean if you are adult enough to make that decision, you have to be adult enough to face the consequences. It's simple. And I still don't feel like we have a right to judge people. Because we were all raised differently. And experienced such different things.

But I do feel like we need to respect ourselves. And our bodies. I'm not saying that 100% of kids are going to leave 9th grade as virgins. That would be ridiculous to expect that. But maybe, it shouldn't be so accepted to see kids having sex at school. Or in the parking lots. Maybe that's when talks of abortion would be more meaningful. And feel less like some grand speech.

I know, I've totally changed the subject here. But it just makes me so mad. That people are ready and set to judge others. They've never walked a day in their shoes. Or experienced life through someone else's eyes. I think we all just need to stop and breathe. Take a look at your own life. Who knows, you're probably judging someone for the same things you've done. ♥Besitos

Polkas

I was thinking about this today. My grandma taught me how to dance a polka when I was small. Like 3 or 4 years old. It was her thing. Her dance. Something that at every single party, she and my uncle would dance. The faster, the better. In her book anyway.

Me, I've had 1 good polka partner in my life. Zo, my best friend. He cracks me up! But he is such a good dancer. I think we just grew up around it. Going to fiestas, parties, etc. That's why we were good at it. But other people, wow! It's like they've never danced a day in their lives! They can't figure out the rhythm. Or the steps.

So I have a question. Was it just in my family, that we were taught how to dance as young kids? I mean they didn't teach us step by step. We just learned. Picked it up on our own. You know, it came naturally. Which I think, most Latinos would agree. it just happens.

One day, I was just dancing a cumbia. No one taught me. I just knew. My hips, my feet, every part of me just knew what to do. And now, I dance all the time. To a HUGE variety of music. It was natural. Something that we were taught. But also something that came from inside. I'm yet to meet a Latino that doesn't know how to dance. ♥Besitos

Makes Me Go...Huh?

I woke up this morning before 4AM. Not feeling very well. I'm thinking that this is round 2 of last month. I don't know. I'm still not "a OK." But I'm hopeful. Anyways, I woke up. Cold. But hot. And very thirsty. I found one lonely Juicy Juice box in the fridge. And sat at the kitchen table drinking my juice. I felt like I was 4 years old again...

Then I went to bed...

At almost 7AM, I woke up. In a cold sweat. Really out of it. Not sure what had just happened. Or even where I was. Does that ever happen to you? You feel so out of place. Like your own body is foreign.

I had a weird dream. Like I was going to a High School Reunion of some sort. And all these people that I had gone to school with, they were there. Not just high school. But all the schools I've gone to. Including pre-school...

It was so weird. And I saw an old friend there. We were friends in high school. He was hilarious! And he had this longish hair. We always talked about hair. Because his was gorgeous! Mine was out of control! Anyway, we sat down to talk.

*In real life, he has been dating the same woman since we were sophomores in high school. Another really good friend of mine.*

Anyway, I haven't seen or talked to either of them in years. And that is what makes this such a weird dream.

So the next thing I remember. My cousin was laying in some room. On a bed, all dressed up. With a baby girl. My cousin who I haven't seen, since my uncle died almost 5 years ago. She had just had her little girl. And was now getting married. Weird I know. But it gets more crazy!

I had just married my friend. And after the wedding and the reception, we welcomed our twin daughters into the world. The hospital was across the street. And as we were leaving the reception, I went into labor. Literally, all of this happened within a 2 day span. And we were having some sort of joint baby shower. It was so weird!

My mom had picked out some cute little things for us. All of which, my cousin was trying to steal. And our daughters were adorable! With jet black hair, just like their daddy. :) And of course, pale skin like me. Poor things! But my "new hubby" was doing a great job. For some reason, we had to go to the Post Office across the street. It was like we had to register them, before getting to take them home. So weird.

My new hubby did all of that for us. And I stayed behind feeding these precious little girls. Breastfeeding. I'm assuming because that's what I teach at the DOH. The entire time, my cousin was boiling over. Because her new husband wouldn't help her. In real life, she's pretty demanding too!

So as I got ready, so that my family and I could go home, my hubby was getting our daughters ready. I came out and he had them all dressed and ready to go. In the cutest little dresses with little sun hats. All of our things were already in our car. My mom was so super excited to have twin granddaughters. And my cousin was having a fit and a half!

I go and pick up one of our little girls. And her daddy hadn't put their diapers on them! I just thought it was hilarious. He wasn't sure how to put on the cloth diapers. So my mom showed him how. It was too sweet. And he was so patient. All I can remember though, is seeing his glasses. Those black frames.

Later, we were at our home. I swear, we weren't living anywhere near here. I don't know where we were living. But we had a nice quiet home. Our daughters had an adorable nursery. And my new hubby and I, well we seemed very much in love. And so happy!

*This was such a weird dream. Because my friend, he was one of my best friends in high school. But I never had any type of romantic feelings about him. None! He was just that person that I hung out with. We would moan and groan about stupid homework assignments. We frequently ran in various runs around town. Like the Ryan's Run. We would cram with our Cliff's Notes minutes before an exam. Or find ways to get out of dumb Senate stuff.

This was way out there. I did leave out some details. Because it was just a weird dream. Something totally unexpected. I've noticed that when I'm not feeling very well, all of these odd dreams happen. So weird!

Well, now it has me thinking about my 2 friends. Not romantically or anything like that. I'm just wondering how they're doing. They now live across the country. But I have no way to get in touch with them. I hope they are doing well. But for me, it's now time for me to get to work. ♥Besitos

Princess Slippers

You know, my best friend is having a baby girl soon. Actually, lots of my friends are expecting baby girls. And this pattern, it's just way too cute! I just need to buy some cotton. I really want to make some. How cute are they!!! ♥Besitos

Fun Saturday

I've really had a nice weekend thus far. I had a good show on Friday night. A really good one actually. I just need to find a Mariachi that is from "The City Different." It would make my life a whole lot easier! But because Zo and a few other friends were in town, I was able to pull a group together for the show. :)

Yesterday, it was busy. And crazy! I went home. To my parents home. Only after a morning run in "The City Different." If you were driving around, yes that was me. In the shorts and tank top. Running on one of their main streets, at 5AM! My parents and I went out to breakfast and then, we had to do some quick birthday shopping.

I head out to a friend's house. And we started decorating and cooking. One of the girls that performs with me, she's getting married. And we were throwing her a Lingerie Party. After all the prep work, I headed to the other side of town. For a birthday party. It was for a friend's little girl. She was turning 8. I only stayed for a little while. But it was nice to see my parents there too!

And then, I headed out to meet the girls. We took the bride-to-be for a mani, pedi, massage. We all had our hair blown out. And just had a very girly afternoon. Then off to dinner. I had prepped everything for Tapas. Our favorite! I cooked, and we all talked and laughed. Before long, the place was packed with friends!

We played games, ate, danced, laughed, opened presents, relaxed, and embarrassed the soon-to-be-Mrs. It was such a fun night. With some of my very best friends! I always enjoy spending time with them. And I can't wait until the wedding! I'm sure, the Mr. will appreciate all the loot from the party too! ♥Besitos

Contigo

What a beautiful song! I heard it on the radio this morning. And it just made me smile. Seems very fitting for today. Since I'm hosting a Lingerie Party for a good friend. She is getting married in just about a month.

It kind of makes me wonder about my own future. And if I will ever find someone to share my life with. It's weird. I never thought about this, until the last few months. It's like now, I'm ready in my life. Ready for the next adventure. But I'm a patient person. And when God decides that I'm really ready, well, I'll be here. :)

Hopefully, one day, I'll have an amazing hombrecito to share this song with. And my life with. Until then, I'm going to enjoy the milestones in my friends' lives. Happy Saturday! ♥Besitos

What Facebook Has Taught Me

I don't use Facebook much. Actually, I hardly ever use it. But last week, I finally signed on. And actually updated my page. Um, ya. I didn't even know that is was connected to my Twitter page. So my friends, followers, whatever you are called on Facebook, have been getting my Twitter updates.

I don't know why I finally signed up for Facebook. Or why it took me months, maybe 6 months, to finally update. But that's life. I didn't want to get sucked into it like I was MySpace. My friends and I were trying to use it to stay connected and updated on gigs. It didn't really work. Because, we weren't consistently checking our pages. Then we all stopped using MySpace.

Now we found twitter. And it works great. Everyone is always on. And we're staying connected. So no one signed up for Facebook. And I don't dedicate much, if any, time to it. But the other day, I was curious...

I signed on. Updated my page. Did a quick search. And that was it. Then, the following day, I needed to find an armonia player in "The City Different." Let me tell you, it was way easier on MySpace. On Facebook, you search. Then you have to become someone's friend. Then send them a message. And pray that they answer you in a somewhat timely manner. Ya, none of that happened.

But I did find some old college friends. I don't know why I didn't try and friend them. And even high school friends. I'm still in shock. You see, 2 of the girls I was closest to as a high school senior, are now married. One of the girls and I were supposed to live together in college. Then she decided she wanted to live in the dorms. And I had a house. Then she went on a stupid peda for 5 years. Every single time I seen her, she was stupid drunk. She even called me one night from across the border. She had gotten lost. And lost her car. It was like 3AM on a Wednesday...

Now she's married. Crazy thing, I seen her mom last Spring. And she didn't say a word. She got married 3 months ago. At the church where my parents go. And the other girl, we were also very close. She is now married with 2 kids! Am I the only one that is single with no kids? I'm in no rush, but seriously!

I think it's just weird. We were all so close at one time. I was supposed to live with one of them. The other was also a close friend. We spent so much time together. Both of these girls, I spent hours a day with. Because we had classes together, were in the same activities, and just liked to hang out. Then one day, we just didn't talk. I'm halfway tempted to friend them. But then, I have to remember how horrible both of them became. One of them stole a lot from me. Made my financial life a nightmare. Made my life in general, pretty miserable. The other, well, we won't go there.

But isn't it funny how life changes. Now I have friends that I can really depend on. People that I love. And who love me. It's a great feeling. But it was kind of nice to see a piece of these people's lives. And a few other people that I've met along the way.

I'm tempted to close my Facebook page. But I'm also tempted to leave it alone. It's a nice way to reconnect with certain people. And to just take a peek into the lives of people I once called friends. ♥Besitos

Mi Cucu

Mi Cucu...or how I came to know it as a small girl..."Don't Mess with My Tutu." I don't even know who the recording was by. All I can remember is, a man sang the song. And I swear to you, it was a country western song. But it was mine song, because my grandma said so. I know. Weird choice for a 3 year old. But there you go.

I would go around my grandparents' house singing and dancing to this song. For hours...even days! I was a bit of a dorky kid. But this was my song. I'm pretty sure that the recording that they had was by a country singer. But don't quote me on that.

Then I got older. And I became a musician. And my good friend and fellow musician so, he had a wise idea. I should sing this song in spanish. Hello! We were already jamming to "Who Let the Dogs Out." So there you go. My song came to life again. Can you tell we had A LOT of fun at work?

Funny how those things happen. Then I became known for this song! It was so weird. And in every Mariachi I've ever played in, I've had to sing this song. And then it crossed over, to the other genres of music that I perform. I think my dancing skills also add to the fun of this song. :)

The crazy thing is, I still like going to my grandparents house and listening to the 8-track recording. Yes, I told you it was old! The label has fallen off. And I have no idea who recorded it. But it brings back so many memories.

I don't know why I woke up thinking about this song. But I did. Go figure! But I found this video and had it playing as I got ready this morning. A bit weird. But I enjoyed it. It's definitely a fun song to dance to. Too bad I'm here alone. With no dance partner...AGAIN!

Now, I need to go get ready for my niece's birthday party. Yes, it's at a weird time...11AM. And I still need to wrap her presents. And sign her card. Oh, and drive the hour to my brother's house. Happy Saturday! ♥Besitos

Tantita Pena

Funny how I seen him today. And all I could think about was his lips. And 1:45 of this video. Doesn't help that he has grown out his hair, is a musician, and has a voice to die for! I wanted to talk to him. But oh ya, I got soaked by the kind firemen of "The City Different."

Oh ya, and that fireman, why do I always see him when I come here? It's just strange. Yes, he asked me out when I was younger. But I was 16 and he was 21. A little illegal in our state. I could have imagined what my Dad would have done.

But back to the man...he looked amazing. I wanted to talk to him. Then the light bulb went off in my head. Um, hello! He plays the guitar. I'm sure he would enjoy this gig. And the money. Too bad my white shirt was drenched. And you could see through it! My bra was clearly visible. And I was running to my car. He would be perfect for this gig. Then maybe just maybe, I'd finally get to talk to him...

But it didn't happen. When I got to my car, Zo called me. And I told him about the entire situation. He told me that I should have just went to talk to him. Maybe he would have just taken the job. hahaha Zo is a funny one! If it had been Zo, he would have taken the job. :P

But seriously, I know at one time I had a phone number for him. Other than that one, to the apartment, where he no longer lives. Oh ya. I could make a quick call to an old teacher. I know he has the number. But then...what do I say?

Now I'm at my parent's house. Calling every musician I know. But he's on my mind. And this video. Why do I make life so complicated for myself? ♥Besitos

Kinda Stressed Out...

So I knew it was a bad idea to get sucked into staying up north for 2 weeks. Well, close to 2 weeks. Whatever...

I came home, my entire garden was dead. So are my flowers. All expect the morning glories. I guess I'll never make it as a farmer's wife. :)

I start classes today. And I got a call at 1AM. My boss from Sin City. I need to find a guitar player in "The City Different." By Monday or something nuts like that. Remind me again, that I can't just leave for that long again. I need to remember that. And where am I going to find a guitar player? Anyone interested? 2 gigs...6 hours total...$5,000. Let me know if you can make it.

Oh, and it poured last night. Seriously! My roof is still leaking. I don't know what to do. I'm officially broke because it's the beginning of the semester. And I'm praying for some more gigs. That's the only reason I'm going up north again. Well, that's a lie. My little niece is turning 2. And I'm going to her birthday party on Saturday. I know. I'm nuts!

A good friend of mine, actually, one of the LBs is getting married. In 5 weeks! And another good friend is getting married in Sin City in a month. I just agreed to go sing for that wedding. Don't forget...my best friend is also having a baby. In less than 2 months. I'm planning the baby shower. Which is across the country. I know. I'm nuts! Can I possibly agree to anything else?

On a good note, I'm home. I slept in my own bed. Had privacy. A hot shower. And I'm one day closer to graduating. Weird thing...I've been dreaming about this one guy. I met him when I first started college. We never really talked. But I liked him. For about a month now, I've been dreaming about him. I think it's a little weird. But I think it's because I seen him about a month ago...

Now I need to get my butt going. I have to walk to school. We're not going to get into that. But I will say this, at least it keeps me in shape. I'm going to need it. I'm going back to "The City Different" in about a week. And I need to be all dressed in heels and everything. Running up and down hills. The joys of being a mujer! ♥Besitos

Camping

I can't believe summer is pretty much over. I never went camping. Not once! What is wrong with me? I had all these plans. My friends and I were going to go camping. We had plans to fish. Zo and I even went to the shooting range. In hopes of a little hunting. We thought about going to the Ranch for a week. Maybe doing some hiking. Heck, we even considered renting a cabin. But we never did...

Me? I stressed out all summer long. I worked. I tried to figure out what I was going to do this semester. I dealt with my brother. And I never once went camping. In my books, that's a total failure!

So I start my classes tomorrow. So much is still uncertain. The next month or so is going to be nuts. And I kinda just want to call up some friends and plan a mini camping trip. Even if it's just for a day or 2. I like sleeping under the stars. Walking up with dirt in my sleeping bag. And wondering how it got there. Camp fire food is also quite tasty!

Did you have any summer plans that just didn't happen? Trips that you planned, things you wanted to do, that sort of thing? I know I had a lot that I wanted to do. But these family issues keep bringing me down. Well, if nothing else, I want to go camping before the snow starts to fall. At least then, I won't feel so bad. ♥Besitos