Choo Choo, All Aboard

Today, my parents and I went on a fun adventure. On that train. Yes, from 8AM to 5PM, we just enjoyed a little bit of life. A slow and fun trip, on the train. Seeing some of the most beautiful landscape that you can imagine!

It's something that mis padres, have talked about for anos and anos. Since I was a ninita. They've always wanted to go. And after a long road trip, much longer than we expected, a little investigating, a questionable hotel, and a fair dinner, we made it to the train. Honestly, I would not trade today for anything. We had that much fun!

Our trip included a tour, bus ride, up the mountain. Crossing the state line at least 11 times on the way back. The return trip was on the train. And halfway back, we stopped for lunch. It was really a fun ride. We met new people. Had great conversations! And it ended with a sprinkling of rain, and getting to see a family of deer. :)

When we got back, we did some shopping. Yes, in that little tiny town. And got a few souvenirs. Nothing crazy or odd. Just some cute things. My Mom bought a hummingbird sign, for her yard. My Dad bought a train for his collection. And I got a pin and some earrings.

Then we made the trip home. Well, we didn't get there. We made it to the state capital. We managed a small dinner, before hunting down a hotel. A better hotel. And we've pretty much collapsed. In pure exhaustion! It was such a great day. A fun trip. And now, I'm ready for some sleep! ♫

Flower Baskets

About a year ago, my parents and I, traveled up to the State Capital. For no real reason at all. Just for a quick trip. We didn't have a plan. But figured that we would walk through the Plaza. And eventually head home. It was a day trip.

And when we got there, you couldn't miss the beautiful flowers. Tons and tons of baskets, overflowing with beautiful flowers. Hanging throughout the Plaza. A little like these...



And since that time, those flowers were all I could think about. I wanted baskets of beautiful flowers for my yard. Something simple, but beautiful. So I almost died out of excitement, when I found hanging flower baskets, and liners, at the Dollar Tree.

I bought a dozen. I'm not even ashamed to admit that. They're not huge. But they are the perfect size. And I planted a bunch of seeds inside them. And a few flowers. I have bigger plans for next year. Since I have a better clue about growing flowers in a basket. And I've got so many ideas. Yup, I'm excited!

It's funny. How simple the idea is. And how it never occurred to me before. I want flowers to hang from my HUGE trees. And in the middle of the lawn. I just need to find those poles. I can imagine flowering vines growing up the poles, and flowers dangling from the baskets. All the things that inspired me, on that summer day. ♫

What We Did Yesterday...

Yes, we took a ride on the train. And we had a blast! OK, so waking up for no good reason, at 5AM, was not my idea of fun. Nor was getting my Mom out of bed at 5:30AM. But we had a fun day.

Um, we met this cute elderly lady. She was at the train stop with us. And was so excited about riding the train. Yes, just like us, it was er first time. Did you know, the train has been around for 5 years! What the heck? Why has it taken us so long to take the ride? I just don't know...

But it was a nice and enjoyable time. Like I said, we met this adorable lady. And she talked to us about everything! It was so fun listening to her. The entire trip was relaxing. So relaxing! And you get to see things that, let's be honest, we don't stop to enjoy. At least when we are driving.

Breakfast at Pascual's was super yummy! A little pricey. But we were in "The City Different." Honestly though, it was so good! I have to admit this much, My Music Man was right. I'm glad we went there. And my Mom and I did some shopping. Who can resist the plaza? My Dad just relaxed all that time!

The train was "cruising" on the way back. We left at 4:15PM, and didn't get to our stop until 6:30PM. And let me tell you, we were exhausted! But it's definitely something I'll do again. Maybe with one of my Goddaughters. :) That would be a lot of fun! Or maybe, just to go visit "My Wanna Be In-laws." ♫

Happy Father's Day

This song, since I was an itty bitty girl, reminded me of my Daddy. I used to sing it to my Dad. All those years ago. I remember my Mom buying me the tape, with this song. And I played it over and over. Years later, this would become my favorite song, to sing in the band.

Even way back then, I knew I had a very special Daddy. A Daddy who loved me so very much. That he would do anything for me. Which included all those Barbies, violin lessons, and school trips. But part of my Dad's love, it also included lots of discipline. I'll be the first one to tell you, I'm so grateful for that. At the time, I was scarred of the paddle. I knew when I was in trouble. I knew that I was in for it. But it made me a better person.

As a small child, I also learned the lessons of hard work. Not many kids learn this, as early as I did. Walking up at 4AM to go to Auntie C's house, or Daycare. Seeing my parents work hard. Watching my Dad's literally bleed from hard work. All the hours and hours, that he put into supporting our family. I'll never forget that.

I can tell you so many stories about my Dad. Fun adventures. Even silly things like buying 3 cases of tomato sauce...when my Mom sent us for a can. 1 can! Or distracting another customer at Wal-Mart, so I could get a few packs of notebook paper, from their basket. Come on, they had 2 cases. I just needed 2 packs. :)

Not everything about our relationship has been easy. But I'm grateful for it. I'm so thankful to God, that he gave me my Daddy. The man that loves me. Just because I'm me. Not for any special reasons. I've always known that he loves me and my Mom. And I'm so thankful that as an adult, I'm so much closer to my parents.

I've been so lucky. I've had parents that have seriously supported me. With everything that I've set out to accomplish. Whether it has been moral support for school, or encouragement for my music. I've been lucky. What other Dad, would sit and listen to their daughter, crying on the phone, at 3AM? Not many. But my Dad has been so supportive. Giving me wisdom. Offering advice. Even when I didn't particularly want it...or feel like I needed it.

This year, it's been tough. The last 6 months, they've really tested us. In so many ways. But I'm so thankful to God, for giving me my Dad. For allowing me to be here, when he's needed me the most. And whatever it is, I'll be there for my parents. I owe them so much.

Just 6 months ago, I was pleading with God. Asking for just a little more time. More time with my Daddy. I know that unlike many people, I won't have my Daddy for a long time. He's older than most. But every precious moment that God gives us, I'm so grateful for.

I think about it often. What am I going to do without my Daddy? I'm not sure. But I do know this much, he's given me so much. So much to comfort me, when I need it. Knowledge that will lead me, when he is no longer with me. Love that will always be in my heart.

There are certain things that I wish for. I wish that one day, my Daddy will give me away. That he'll know, I've found a good man, to share my life with. I'd be over the moon, to share my kids with my Daddy. To see the joy that his grandchildren could bring him.

I could go on and on. But more than anything, I want to celebrate, honor, and love my Daddy today. I want him to know, God couldn't have given me a better Dad. My Dad is not just my Dad. He's my best friend. I just hope that he has many more years of love, happiness, and health ahead of him. Happy Father's Day Sunshine! Love, Your Morning Glory! ♫

Fun and Family

On Sunday, we had my niece's graduation party. Honestly, it took forever to get together! I'm not going to lie. A lot of hard work. And not many people to pitch in. But we got it together. I was going through sales flyers for weeks! My parents were running around town. Buying hot dogs, fruit, and whatever else I could find on sale.

And I was running from Dollar Tree to Dollar Tree. Looking for plates, table clothes, and utensils. So much to do. So little time to do it in. It's a long story. But last minute, the party was moved to my parents' house. And all of a sudden, they had a crap load of stuff to do. And do you remember, I went to NC to work...

But it everything was coming together. K came to help us with the yard. And after 3 days of cleaning, the yard looked good. Not great. But good. I cooked for what felt like days! And eventually, everything got done. K was a HUGE help! Along with my brother R. Who put up tables, chairs, BBQ grills, decorations, and the tent. All right before the party. Thanks so much!

Did I mention the cake issue? COSTCO told us to pick up the cake on Saturday at 6PM. Well, they close at 6PM. A new policy or something. We almost didn't have a cake. And we didn't get our last minute stuff either. :( But it all worked out. We had to wait outside while an employee got the cake.

We were also calling people on Saturday night. Yes, the night before. To come to the party. I have to tell you, we have some amazing friends. Because they showed up! Wow! And everything seemed to work out. I'm actually quite shocked. But it worked out. Last minute things, well if they didn't get done, I didn't worry.

We all had an amazing time. At least I think everyone did. There was a ton of food left over! But my Dad is one of those people, that would rather have a lot of food leftover. Than for us to be short food. It's not so bad. Lots of people took home food. We froze the extra hot dogs and hamburgers. And well, my parents are sending me home with a bunch of fruit and veggies. All is well. :)

Honestly, I wish I would have had more time to talk to people. But I was cooking. And just trying to stay alive. I was so tired. And I ended up sleeping half of Monday to recover. I'm still exhausted. But a lot better.

So many people told me that they want to come back. Lots of kids want to come over and play. And we've already planned a BBQ for Father's Day! I really do enjoy my parents' house. And their backyard. It's so peaceful and relaxing.

But the day was fun. And I got to see lots of family. That I normally don't see. And I spent time with my nieces and nephews. Chatted with lots of little kiddos. And well, I think we all just enjoyed life. At least for a few hours. Hmmm, I think we have 2 years until the next big graduation... ♫

Failing...

I'm pretty sure I have a problem. A HUGE problem. I'm afraid to fail. At anything and everything. Not quite, but pretty close. That has lead to this crazy perfectionist issue that I have. Everything needs to be perfect, have it's place, or it's time. If not, I'm going nuts.

In general, I'm an "all or nothing" kind of a woman. Is that bad? I'm not sure. But it can't be good. So here I am. "all or nothing" all of the time. I'm never OK with things being halfway done. Failure is just not an option for me.



And as good as that can sound, it really is not a good idea. Because there are so many things, that I just refuse to try or experience. Because what if I'm not that good at them?

One thing that really comes to mind is relationships. I want to control lots of things in my life. I'm not a control freak. I don't try to control people either. But I don't want to invest all that time and effort, into something that could possibly fail.

Maybe my family has a lot to do with that. Divorce in my family is really common. Ridiculously so. My parents are both on their 2nd marriage. As are my maternal grandparents. I have so many siblings and cousins that can't get it right either. Really good friends (who are great people) that can't seem to make the right choices, in relationships. So I get nervous, and let's face it, scared. So I avoid the subject.

Quite like I avoid other things in my life. Like standing up to my parents about my future plans. You know, college, where I'll live, what I'll do. I just tell them, what I know, they want to hear. Lord help us all, if I do start dating, anytime soon. If Mr. Right comes along. If I really chase after MY DREAMS...

This not wanting to fail thing is so bad, that I do avoid certain things. Like that opportunity for that Crafting Show. Or the chance at a real career in music. Because "what if?" It's horrible. It's a crutch that I need to get rid of. But how?

I'm good at a lot of things. Because I push myself. There's school, my job, music, household things, cooking, baking, gardening, sewing, crocheting, writing, decorating...the list can go on and on. But there are so many other things that I am just in fear of. The kind of fear that almost paralyzes you. Like riding a horse...

After talking with my Commadre L, I realized I need to let go of this fear. So what if a relationship fails. If I gave it my all, I know that was all I could do. And if I try and tile my bathroom and it doesn't work out, I can chalk that up to a "lesson learned." I just need to believe in myself. Deep down in my soul. I need to believe in me. Sometimes, failure is part of the game of life. ♫

An Ordinary Day

Sometimes just those "Ordinary Days" are what we need. What the doctor has ordered up for us. You know what I mean? I think I've sorta missed these crazy days. When I drive from the hospital to the DOH, then to school, then to WIC, and finally to my night class. A busy day!

Oh, and somewhere in that mix, I've found time to head to the Ranch and pick up my paperwork. Maybe I even got to steal a moment of peace and quiet, a quick shower, and half a sandwich. :) Yes, these busy days, they're part of me. Well, at least for the moment. And I really do enjoy them.



But as much as it's been "relaxing" to get back into my routine, I'm not completely in the "here and now." My mind is still wondering. Thinking about my parents. My Dad's health. About the thousands of things I need to get done. Yes, that's me. That person.

Busy day or not, crazy college costs included, it's been a good day. A day to reconnect with friends and co-workers. Something I desperately needed. My mind has been on overdrive for the last month. I needed this. And so much more. But I'll take what I can get.

And now, it's time for me to climb into bed. Hopefully shut down my thoughts. And get some rest. Who in the world thought a 6AM class was a good idea? Not me. But I need to leave my house by 5AM. A time that comes way too quickly! Good night my loves. ♫

Thinking About Christmas...

There was not a whole lot that I expected, or wanted, this year for Christmas. I was hoping for a simple day or two at home, with my parents. I had a few things that I really wanted. A couple of craft books, a crochet magazine subscription, and a scarf. Mostly, I was looking forward to some chili rellenos, and time with my parents. And I really wanted to go to Midnight Mass at our church.

It's almost been a month since Christmas. And honestly, this year, Christmas was a blur. I'm not even sure if I wished my Mom a Merry Christmas. I spent the early morning hours talking to my Dad, and praying. Usually I'm up wrapping presents until 4AM! And I had planned on going to Midnight Mass alone. But none of that happened.

It's all OK though. Because my Dad is OK. Minus the little sugar scare yesterday morning. He's honestly doing really well. Gaining strength with each passing day. And I guess being Diabetic Certified is coming in handy now. :) But honestly, Christmas came and went with little notice by me. Sad, but true. All that was on my mind, was getting my Dad healthy. And keeping my Mom calm.

A few years ago, I had a pretty sad Christmas too. Just some personal things that were going on. In the end, my parents and I enjoyed a quiet holiday together. Just the 3 of us. And after Christmas, we took a little road trip through the mountains. That was the year that taught me a lot about myself. For all sorts of reasons.

This year, I looked back on that simple holiday. I'm one of those people that usually write out 500 Christmas cards, bake enough cookies for the US Army, and decorate my house to look like a Christmas Wonderland. Christmas is truly one of my favorite times of year. I just love my religion, and this holiday is all about religion.

But that year, and this past year, it was different. I came home Wednesday, and I saw my sad decorations. Just a wreath on my door, and some bells on my front door. That's it!!! Not me at all! I never set up my Advent Wreath, or Nativity Scene set up. I didn't pick out a Christmas outfit, never finished my shopping, or started my baking, no Christmas cards were sent, and honestly, I think I wore a mismatched pair of sweats on Christmas Day. With snowflake socks, and the same pair of ballet flats that I wore for 2 weeks! I definitely didn't pack, to be home for almost a month.

This year, I definitely became closer to God. It was the first time that I was really scared about losing my Dad. Really scared! As a medical professional, I'm trained to handle tough cases. I've saved a life with a gun to my head. But when it's your parent, it's completely different. And when you see you Dad laying on the ground, bleeding from his head, turning blue, the entire world just stops.

I kept it together. For the most part. I had to. We don't have many people to lean on. And during those first few hours, all my Mom and I really had, was each other. And I needed to protect her. I was the strong one. The one that knew what was coming. The one that sent my Mom to the waiting room, and sat there with my Dad. Knowing that pain and even a bit of yelling was coming.

I anticipated those things. I protected my Mom. And I took care of my Dad. All those nights in the hospital, I stayed up. Talking to my Dad. Praying to God. Pleading with Patrick. Holding on to my faith. And just believing we'd all be OK. I cried. But not until late at night. When my Mom was asleep.

I'm almost positive that my Dad doesn't remember any of this. Or any of the conversations we had. I held tight to my faith. I prayed. I asked God for his grace, love, and strength. And I just held out hope.

We were very lucky. To have amazing people in our lives. Having some of the most amazing friends and family. Friends who are close to my heart. People that I feel closer to than my own family. Lots of prayers. From family and friends, near and far. People who visited every single day. Loved ones that were there for us, when we needed them the most. Whether it was the daily visit, the delicious food, the conversations, the support, or the love...it all meant so much!!!

And during this time, I really felt God's love. I have amazing friends here, that prayed for my Dad and our family. Friends who have never met my parents. They held special masses, said rosaries, and just prayed for us. So many people prayed. And through the power of prayer, love, and support...my Dad made it! :)

It's going to be a long recovery. It's an adjustment for my parents. But I'm just grateful to have my Dad back. He's making a recovery. And I'm so grateful for that. I'm literally speechless. God is Great!!!

This year, Christmas came almost a week late. No fancy dinner. No mass. Heck, I was still wrapping the few presents we had managed to buy one another. It took hours to get through our few gifts. You know, we had a break for a snack, and a little nap. But in the end, I was happy to be with my 2 parents. At home. And healthy.

Christmas isn't about presents, parties, shopping, big meals, or even actually attending mass. It's about those things we hold dear in our hearts. Celebrating Jesus Christ. Remembering what's important. The power of prayer. And the love of family and friends.

This year, the Christmas tree, lights, and all that wrapping paper didn't matter. I didn't watch a single Christmas movie. And I only had 1 relleno. Yes, 1! But I've never been so happy to sit in my parent's living room, listening to my parents sleep. Silly I know. But for us, this year, it really was the sound of pure bliss.

And after weeks at home, 2 trips to my home and back, lots of cooking, cleaning, and medical advice...I'm just happy to know my parents are doing well. Years from now, I'll look back on this holiday season, and remember all the love that I'm surrounded with. The people that truly love me and my family. The people that matter most. I'll remember how love really does conquer all. And that nothing is more important than religion.

Now, I need to get ready. I'm heading home for work. I'll be back by Sunday. To work out here. Honestly, I'm just excited to see my parents! It's been less than 48 hours since I've last seen them. And only 8 hours since we've talked on the phone. But honestly, I cherish every moment that we share. Happy Friday! ♫

Praying for My Daddy

Loving God,
you watch over each and every one of your children.
Hear my prayer for my father.
Be his constant companion.
Protect him no matter where he goes,
and bring him safely and quickly home to those who
love him.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

We have been so lucky. God has worked in some truly amazing ways. My Daddy is recovering. It looks as though, he's going to be OK. He's going to make it past all of this. God has given us all a second chance. One that I'm so grateful for!

I will still ask for your prayers. And all of your positive thoughts. It's going to be a long road. That much I know. Life is going to be a bit more complicated. We're going to need a few more patients. But we're grateful. Grateful for a second chance.

My family has been so blessed. With so many people, that love and care about us. With a steady, and constant flow of visitors. Such kind hearted people. And such a talented medical team. We're so grateful. Words can't describe just how much it's meant to us.

And for as tired as we are, we're happy. Beyond ecstatic! Just for a second chance. A few more days to fill with love and memories. Another shot at being a family. Yes, we're so excited!

It looks like my Dad should be released within the next few days. Like I said, he's getting better. It's going to take a while for him to recover. But my Mom and I, are just happy to have him. We're ready for the road to recovery, that lies in front of us. ♫

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas! First and foremost, I want to thank my Dear Lord. For giving my Daddy, a second chance. It looks like he is going to recover. That's what the doctor has told us. He's still not out of danger. We're still in the ICU. And it's going to be a very long road. But he should make it. Praise God!

So a little information. My Dad's scans and test all came back looking good. But the doctor is still concerned with a few things. His medication was ridiculously low. So they increased that. His oxygen levels are also really low. So they're monitoring that. He as to have oxygen on 24/7. At least for now. And his sugars are running really high.

But the main concern is pneumonia. Because of his age. And he's had it before. So about twice an hour, they come in to suction him. He does not like it one bit! What can you do? They are really worried about that though.The nurses constantly come to check. Because if the pneumonia fully develops, we're in trouble.

With all that said, he's doing better. Not 100%. Heck, we might be at 20%. But he's doing better. Tonight, he might get his first meal. He's supposed to have a "clear liquid" tray. Of course, he is more concerned with my Mom and I eating. But we have amazing friends and family. All of whom, have been wonderful! We've had more than enough to eat. Thank you guys!

In his usual fashion, my Dad is trying to get out of bed, when we're not paying attention. But for the most part, he's been sleeping. We've had a pretty steady stream of visitors. And we are honestly so blessed. So many people stayed here at the hospital, with us, last night. I think we were up until 2AM!

My Dad is no where near "being himself." He's sleeping a lot. The really deep sleep. Mostly because of all the medications. He's also not really talking. But he is semi aware, of what is going on. He watches us all. And is doing pretty well. And when the doctor told him it was Christmas, he said, "Holy cow! Are you sure? I need to shop." The doctor just laughed! There will be plenty of time to celebrate, when he feeling better.

We've got another amazing nurse today. He's had so much patients with my Dad. Who insisted on sitting in a chair this morning. It took them about 30 minutes to get him in the chair. Then he told the nurse he was tired. So we put him back to bed. And he's been asleep since. So, he really hasn't sat up since Thursday morning.

Like I said, we've had so many visitors. Everyone has been so kind. And we've gotten so many phone calls. We are truly blessed. Like I said, my Dad is making small improvements. We still don't know what's wrong. And honestly, he's not really talking yet. So they can't ask him too many questions.

My Mom is handling this pretty well. Although, she won't leave my Dad's side. But I'm making sure she eats. And sleeps. I've also made sure she is semi-comfortable. Has the necessities and clean clothes. We're just trying to make it. That's all I can say.

I'll keep everyone, as updated, as I can. You can call at anytime. I have all 3 of our cellphones. And you are more than welcomed, to call the hospital room. Or come by! My Dad might not talk to you on the phone, but he enjoys getting the calls. He really lights up when he sees new faces.

Looks like he's waking up. I better get going. I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas. Please keep my family in your prayers. Remember us today, while you are in church. May you have a wonderful day. Merry Christmas! ♫

Please Pray

We've had a pretty bad 24 hours. And now, I'm asking you all for your positive thoughts and prayers. My Dad got really sick yesterday. A lot worse than his "normal" for seizures. And by 9PM, I was calling an ambulance.

We spent a couple of hours in the emergency room. And then we were all rushed up to the ICU. I know it's bad. My Dad is in bed #1. But we've had a good team. An incredibly talented doctor last night. And an outstanding nurse here in the ICU.

Right now, they have my Dad pretty medicated. And he is going to spend most of the morning having scans and tests run. He is completely out of it. But at least, his breathing is becoming more easy. Last night, he struggled so much. At one point, I honestly wasn't sure if he was going to make it. And that really scared me.

I don't have anyone's phone numbers. Neither does my Mom. So if any of my family is reading this, send me a text or an e-mail. I'll let you know what is going on. But for now, please pray for my Daddy.

And I truly hope that everyone has a very blessed Christmas. I will try to keep everyone updated, as much as possible. I love you all. ♫

Did You Hear?

Over the weekend, my request was played on the radio! I was in shock. More so because I got the e-mail just hours before the show aired. I had put in the request in April. I know! Forever ago. But it was so special to hear it. Even if I had kinda hoped it would be played around Father's Day. It was still really special.

And I'm super excited that both of my parents were happy! They couldn't stop talking about it. My Dad was really excited. But my Mom, I know that it was so special to her too. And to be honest, the song just fits our family so much.

Funny how something so small, can just make your day. I felt so good after hearing the request Sunday morning. And to be honest, I'm still pretty excited about the whole thing. I know that sounds a little goofy. But it's the truth! Country music just has a way of just healing your soul. ♫

Things I'm Missing This Weekend

This trip kind of came on a bad weekend. And there are a few things that I'm missing. And I wish I wasn't...

1. My parents are at the State Fair with the Model T. And I really wanted to go.

2. The FREE Dwight Yoakam concert. Need I say more?

3. The battle of I-10. One of the best games to go to.

But in all, this is going to be a fun weekend. Minus the somewhat boring concert last night. But whatever. Mi Princesa and My Lil' Cowgirl kept me entertained. And A kept me fed. What a good friend he is. :)

I figure, there will be other State Fairs. And I know my Dad will be in other Car Shows. I know there will be more "Battle of I-10" games. About the only thing that really depresses me is, missing the Dwight Yoakam concert. Silly me, I've had a big 'ol crush on him since I was a kid! ♫

Too Fast!

The weekend has gone by so fast! I still can't believe it. It's almost time for me to leave. Yesterday, we got here. I drove my car because I need to leave straight from here tomorrow. I have a 6 hour trip tomorrow morning. But I don't mind. I was actually about 30 minutes ahead of my parents. Which turned out to be a good thing. I got here before them, and I got to sit and talk to my Tatie. Turns out Nanie was out of town.

But Tatie and I sat and talked for a good 90 minutes. About all kinds of things. We just caught up. Talking like the old days. I always enjoy hearing the stories my Tatie has to tell. We fed the animals and sat with Tiger (his cat.) Honestly, I enjoyed that the most. Just sitting there talking.

Over the last 2 days, I've managed to do a lot of cooking and baking. And I mean a lot! The food always tastes so yummy here. I've already made 2 cakes. :) My mom has been cooking breakfast, and I'm doing the rest. And we've been crafting a lot! I finally made Mi Princesa's purple tutu. And I've been working on baby stuff. The blanket for my best friend. And some baby sweaters. But I've really enjoyed it!

Tonight, my Mom and I went through a bunch of my old stuff. Lots of my things from my childhood are here. So we went through boxes of toys, books, and clothes. And we laughed so hard! But it was nice to go down "Memory Lane." My mom even gave me one of her old dresses. I'm going to wear it for an upcoming gig. :)

I definitely needed this. I only wish that I could stay longer. I just want to sit outside, under the trees, and read. I wish I could spend a month here! I honestly feel so much better. And I haven't even been here for 24 hours. I guess I just missed coming here. When I was young, we'd come almost every single weekend. But, I'm just grateful for the chance to come out here. To spend time with my grandparents. And to breathe some fresh air. ♫

Meaningful Gifts

This morning, I got ready to leave. It was time for me to get home. Work was calling. And tomorrow is the girls' birthday party. I really had to get home. But before I left my parents' house, the UPS man came by. With one last present for me...a necklace.

My Dad ordered me a necklace. Heart shaped...and 2-toned. With a rose in the center. The back read. "My little girl yesterday, my friend today, my daughter forever." It was perfect! And it matches a bracelet that he gave me a few years ago.

It really was perfect. I know my parents love me. I've never had to doubt that. But something like this very meaningful gift, it makes me remember. Remember that no matter what, I'm going to be OK. And they're going to love me. That gift, it put me on "Cloud 9." I LOVE YOU MOM AND DAD! ♫

I'm Home!

Yes, I got to my parents' house around lunchtime. I LOVE coming to visit my parents! I had some of my mom's leftover potato soup when I got here. So delish! I just love her cooking. Honestly, she can make a plain scrambled egg, and I'm happy. :)

But I must have been a really good girl this year. My parents bought me a new strand of pearls...lavender ones. They are gorgeous! In case you don't know it, I LOVE pearls. Over the years, my parents bought me a strand of pearls, a single pearl necklace, pearl earrings, and a pearl ring. But the lavender pearls, they're my favorite! Because purple is my favorite color. :)And I got more clothes. Some cute workout clothes. I really must have been a really good girl.

I left this morning at around 7AM. I left straight from work. Because I was called in last night. So it was a long trip. It was supposed to be 4 hours. But I hit snow along the way. And it made it much longer! By the way, isn't it officially Spring now? Oh well. I made it through the snow. But it was so worth it! I'm excited to just be home for a few days. And I'm ready to relax. ♫