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

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

The City Different...Emergency Trip

Last night, I got the call. I had to come to "The City Different." For two reasons. Both work related. One, I needed to update my hospital credentials. That's what I'm doing at the moment. It's so boring. Taking a long time. But so much of a necessity. You know how that goes...

Secondly, I'm on a mission to find an armonia player. Today. Because I have a gig on Monday. And I need someone to play while I sing. Do you know of anyone that would be interested? I could use all the help I can get. Seriously! And it pays $5,000!

My boss called me last night to tell me. I need to find someone today. I have 1 guy's number. But he's not answering. And a friend suggested that I go hang out at the Plaza. I think that would have worked last weekend. But do musicians just kinda hang out there? I don't know. But this afternoon, I will find out. :)

Other than that, not much else on my agenda. I still need to buy my niece something for her birthday. Her party is tomorrow. And I'm thinking about Upper Crust for lunch today. I used to go there all the time in high school. Silly me. :) But it just sounds good.

Other than that, it's just me. Over dressed. In a pencil skirt, button down white blouse, and red peep toes. Yes, I get graded on my clothes. So I'm always dressed up. But I'm feeling way over dressed today. Just wait until I have to go downtown later. This is going to be interesting. ..

But again, I'm in love with this city. Too bad it's so expensive to live here. Oh, and that my college isn't here. Because I would seriously like to move out here. Maybe then, I could get back into full time Mariachi playing. ♥Besitos

Violin Huapango

This is not just one of my favorite songs, but one of my favorite Mariachis. Rafael, he happens to now live in my hometown. I've had the pleasure of seeing him play and sing many times. He's so talented. And a really nice guy.

You just have to love the violin duo at the end. A father and a son. Doesn't get much better than that. I LOVE this song. And not just because I'm a violin player. I've always liked this song. But this particular video, with this group, just makes it amazing!

I know many of the current musicians in Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan. Wonderful musicians. And down to earth. I've had the pleasure in playing with many musicians. In a variety of genres. But there's something about Mariachi musicians, they're always down to earth. No matter how popular they are. It's like family. ♥Besitos

Makeup for Shows

I'm still feeling a bit rough. I managed to make it to church. Then, came home and went to bed. I just hate feeling so sick! But it lead me to YouTube. And to pixi2woo's channel. Where I found this video.

I find that this is a nice dramatic look. Something that mariachi performing requires. Something that I need to learn how to perfect more. I really, really think I look ridiculous with such a bold lip. But who knows, it's probably just my own insecurities. I really want to try this look. Perhaps this week, I'll be feeling better. One can only hope. ♥Besitos

Esots Celos

I just LOVE this song! It makes me so happy to hear it. It still shocks me that mariachis in my my hometown don't know it. But that's OK. I can hear it on the radio. And recently, I found my CD. It's just a nice song. Something that puts a smile on my face. Every single time I hear it! But this is still one of my favorite songs. What are some of your favorite mariachi songs? ♥Besitos

Hombrecito

There's this guy...I met him when I was 18. A rather cute man. One that all the ladies were in love with. I mean all the ladies. From 3-83! And then, there was me. I was shy. Barely uttered 2 words in a 2 hour rehearsal. I was that awkward college freshman.

But there he was. Gorgeous eyes. Curly, somewhat out of control hair, and an amazing personality. I was 18 and very shy. He would make it a point to come and say Hi during every rehearsal. I think his momma just raised him right. It took everything I had to barely mutter the word Hi. Why was I so shy?

For years, we rehearsed together. Years people! Our conversation were never too lengthy. I so badly wanted to join the mariachi he was in. Not just because he was in it. Though that was a plus. But this group was really amazing. And I wanted to learn so badly! But, I was so nervous! I could barely handle being in a mariachi rehearsal at school with him. How was I going to handle the actual group? Well life got busy, and I never joined.

A few years later, I was asked to help bring back the school mariachi. I nervously looked for phone numbers. And I found his messy guy handwriting, on the back of some music. I dialed the number, knots in my stomach, only to get his old roommate. Life was just sucked out of me! So you can imagine my surprise, when I walk into rehearsal. He was standing there. That goofy smile that I loved so much! Holding his guitar.

The summer prior to this, the group I had been playing in back home, came down to play. And I went to see them. He was there. Playing. I thought I was about to die. he looked amazing in his traje. When he started to sing, I halfway thanked God that it was dark by this point. Because I could tell, I was as red as ever! But I sat there and watched. Until nearly 11PM. It was like heaven on earth! :)

So when we started rehearsing again, I was glad I played the violin. I was on the other side of the room. Until our ever so wise professor, thought it was a good idea to put the violins in front of the armonia. And I, ended up standing right in front of him. I could hardly play. And forget when he sang. I couldn't give a reason why, an experienced mariachi like myself, couldn't play Volver, Volver when he sang. I really couldn't.

For about 6 months, we saw each other twice a week. In rehearsal. And as I was going to my lesson. Later, as in a few years later, his friend came to ask me a few questions. Like what I thought about him. He asked me, did I ever think it was weird that the violins had to stand in front of the armonia? Or that his lesson was always before mine. That it took him an extra 10 minutes to pack up, as I was starting my lesson. I guess it was a well orchestrated situation.

If I had only known. If I had not been so shy. Oh and there was that one mariachi conference. Why was I so incredibly shy? He wanted to know so much. And there I was, listening to some lecture about mariachi musicianship onstage!

There was also that time. When the group went on that out of town gig. And I was running. It was in the beginning of February. I was in shorts and a tank top. I know. I'm crazy! But he talked about it for years after. And that night in rehearsal. When I was late. Because I lost track of time at the gym. I was in my sweats. And when I took off my jacket, I could hear him and his friend talking. I don't know what they said. But when I looked up, he was bright as can be. We didn't say much of anything that night.

Time past. He graduated and moved away. I got more involved in my new field. And our paths never crossed. Until today.

I went to eat breakfast with my parents. Just a quick thing. I had gotten up late. Hadn't really wanted to go. But went. My hair was it's usual crazy mess, when I leave it to dry naturally. Half curly, half frizzy, but still wet. I had minimal makeup on. And was lucky to have made it to breakfast. I noticed him out of the corner of my eye. Was it really him? Could it be?

I was done with my breakfast. Had talked to a cousin of mine that was there. And was waiting for my parents to finish up. We were getting ready to leave. But my dad decided to have another glass of water. And, here I was. Seeing this man, he is clearly a man now, walk out of this restaurant. The same restaurant that is less than 5 minutes from my parent's house. For a split second, I wanted to say something. Hi. How are you? Are you still playing? Etc...

But the words escaped me. My parents were sitting there talking about shopping at Costco. And he left. I had felt my heart rate increase. And now, what was I going to do? I sat there. I had just missed the opportunity. Is he living in my hometown now? I have no clue! Was he by himself? I don't know. I seen him walk out alone.

What a mess I am! Why didn't I say something? Then or now...

That folks, is a total screw up on my part. He is an amazing man. I would give anything to hear him play and sing again. My friends, they know that I have this little crush on him. a few years ago, they went looking for him. Good thing, they didn't find him. But they did call him a few times from my phone. I could have killed them! But maybe that's what you're supposed to do. Not be so scared, shy, or old fashioned.

Now all I can think about is that crazy, curly hair. Which he has grown out. Oh, amazing! And those silly shorts that he likes to wear. I swear, the only thing missing was the Gilligan's hat. I know I really missed an opportunity. I will never know if he actually had feelings for me. Or if 2 people that I trust and respect were just telling me that he did. But I would really like to run into him. Just once. Some place were we can sit and talk. Even if it's just for 5 minutes. ♥Besitos

Heriberto Molina

One of the most talented people, that I've ever had the honor to meet is don Heriberto Molina. "El Maestro." You can read more about him here. But he trained to sing. In a monastery of all places. Later, he learned the violin so that he could play in a mariachi. Not just any mariachi either, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalilitlan.

I've had the honor to train with him. His vocal training is the best out there. And if you ever have the chance, don't pass it up. He has so much knowledge to share. In everything from breathing, wording, performing, stance, and presentation. This is what you call a "God given talent." El Maestro, he just has the talent. It's just there. And he is so willing to share it.

And if you're ever lucky enough to sit down and talk with El Maestro. Don't pass that up! He is so hilarious! And has decades of amazing stories to tell. I'm telling you, he is one of the most talented people I have ever known. And kind, oh so kind. ♥Besitos

Feliz Navidad

What can I say? It's almost Christmas. And I'm pretty excited! My Mom just wants to hear a Mariachi play Feliz Navidad. But at this point, I think we're all out of luck. As far as hearing it live. Nonetheless, we're in great spirits around here. My Mom is cooking away. I'm still wrapping presents. And my Dad is relaxing in the living room.

It's a nice Christmas Eve. Thus far. We have to go shopping later. My Dad and I are heading out as soon as we have breakfast. And then, later this afternoon, we're all going to the mall. Can you tell that my parents are procrastinators? ♥Besitos

Friday the 13th

Do you think that today is bad luck? I don't. I am actually a fan of the number 13. And of Fridays. Put them together, and I am still very happy!

But I'm also not having the best of days. Probably because I am sitting here wishing I was at the conference. I love Mariachi. Probably, as much as, most women love makeup. Or most men love sports. But this year, I am not attending. Um, it has been a while, since I attended as a student. But at the very least, I usually go to the concert.

But this year, well it isn't happening. And that makes me so sad. This is probably my favorite event all year! I guess, it shows me that my life is going down a completely different path right now. But seriously! One of my all time favorite singers in performing tomorrow night. And I won't be there!

Today, I am determined to get my Goddaughter's nursery ready and done. I agreed and promised, to do the nursery months ago. Because my friends asked. And it was going to be for my goddaughter. Oh, and I LOVE to decorate. But life kind of just got in the way. School and work have swamped me. Then I had a lot of traveling for work and performing. Oh, and my sewing machine just died on me!

It's been a little tough, to say the least, to get my project done. But my Goddaughter is due any day now. And she needs a room to come home to. The painters and contractor have been here. And they have finished everything that they needed to do. The furniture is here. I just need to sew the bedding and the curtains. And get everything in it's place. Decorate. That sort of thing. It doesn't sound like a lot. But I have a pile of fabric staring at me, saying different.

My Friday the 13th isn't bad luck. Instead, I am just sulking a bit. Wishing that I was making beautiful music. Instead of sitting here listening to the wind howl outside. Don't let me get you down. Go and have some fun today! After all, it is Friday! ♥Besitos

Makeup Square

I just LOVE Ali's makeup tutorials. They're so fun. And the looks are amazing! This is one of my favorites! I like to watch her videos for inspiration. And to learn new techniques. Mostly, I wear this type of makeup for gigs. Especially Mariachi work. I always feel like I need to be a lot more dramatic with my hair, makeup, and accessories. It's just something that comes with the territory.

I just wish that Ali would make some more tutorials. I miss watching them. But there are a lot more here. She has so many amazing looks! I just wish I could wear them all. And more often. But it's a bit dramatic for a college student and hospital intern. ♥Besitos