Judging

Today is another long day of judging. The 2nd day for us. I'm a judge at our local State Fair. For school, we are assigned judging responsibilities. And yesterday, I spent my day tasting cookies, pie, honey, jams, and tons of baked goods.

It's always fun. But by the end of the day, you don't want to look at food. But you're usually hungry. Because you haven't really had a meal. Or any kind of "real food." But like I said, we always have a good time. I've been doing this for a few years. So I'm one of the "Finalist Judges." Which is a lot easier than working through all the entries. You only taste the top entries from each category.

And to be honest, our local State Fair is a lot more fun than the large one in my hometown. It's a lot smaller, and only 5 days long. But there is something about a small town fair. It makes you feel like you're back in the 1950s. And in my opinion, it makes my toes curl with happiness and excitement! ♫

Bows...

My best friend H is due tomorrow. But she told me today, she's almost 100% sure that my Goddaughter is not coming anytime soon! Maybe she is waiting for me to go to NC. Who knows. But I'm hoping that I get to be there for her birth. :)

While talking, H mentioned that she wanted some bows like this. Yuppers, she wants My Lil' Southern Belle to have tons and tons of bows. I know, I made her some smaller ones. And lots of headbands. But I think I'm going to try and make a couple of these big bows.

I've already got the headbands and plenty of ribbon. I just need to find the time to sit down and make them. Seriously, looking at this picture makes me so happy and excited! I can't wait to meet My Lil' Southern Belle! ♫

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. ♫

Now What?

I finally watched last weeks episode of House. It was amazing! I'm still in shock that House and Cuddy are a couple. Something tells me, this is going to be a fun season. And very unexpected. Is it just me, or is it weird that House is actually somewhat happy?

Hmmm, it makes me wonder what is in store for this season. Honestly, I'm pretty excited about this show. I just hope that it doesn't disappoint. Because it's off to a very good start. Funny how I only found House about a year ago. Now, I can't get enough of it!

I just hope I get to watch tonight. I usually catch all my favorite shows online. Days or weeks after they air. But I'm almost as excited about tonight's episode, as I am about Grey's Anatomy. Oh, and there is no need to point out the obvious. I like medical dramas. ♫

Just What I Needed!

Everything about today, is just what I needed. Something to kick my butt back into shape. It was Little M's birthday party. No that isn't her birthday cake. But it should have been! She is really into "algidators" at the moment.

I helped my friends get the party together. And Little M's birthday cake, just might have been even more adorable than this cake. No lie! Everything about her birthday party was fun, light, and enjoyable!

Honestly, it was everything that I needed. I really did need it. It's been a tough few weeks. And I just needed some time to laugh and enjoy myself! Mission accomplished today! Mis amigos know how to throw a good party. Or I should say a good Matanza!

As usual, it was a ton of fun! Lots of delicious food. And great music. That generally happens when the parents are musicians, and all of their friends are musicians. We did some "Mariachi Jammin'." And just had a great time. Mi Princesa and I, we did a lot of dancing. Mostly with her Nono, A.

And I'm not going to lie. It's nearly midnight, on a Sunday, and I'm just getting home. It was that much fun. I'm looking through my "Algidator" bag. Did I mention that there was a HUGE alligator pinata? Yup, lots of candy! And some really fun toys. :)

So in case you are wondering, a 2 year old birthday party can be so much fun! Really it can be. Especially when your friends are like your family. My friends are pretty darn amazing! And their kids, they're simply adorable!

This was just the day I needed. It's helping me to move forward. And the plate of chicharrones, I know they're going to make a very yummy breakfast tomorrow morning! So I'm off to bed. Happy Birthday Little M! ♫

Life Moves On

It's crazy how fast life moves forward. Like if you blink your eyes, you'll miss everything. Just days ago, I cried myself to sleep. Missing one of the most important people in my life. The pain hasn't gone away. It still hurts thinking about Patrick. But today, one of my closest friends is getting married.

Life is definitely moving forward. I'm laying here, looking at this beautiful, pink dress. I'm in the wedding. And I'm supposed to be happy. This is a day of celebration. But I'm not sure that my heart and soul are in it today. My "acting skills" are going to have to be good today.

Life is just tough like that. You know what I mean? I'm so happy for my friends. What a glorious day! This is really one of those couples that is going to make it. You just know it. They're perfect for each other. And I want all the happiness in the world for them.

You know, I've hosted showers and parties for them. It's a big deal that they're getting married. Just a month ago, I was so excited. Today, I'm having trouble talking myself into just going. I want to lay in bed all day.

But I'm going to put my "Big Girl Panties" on. And I'm going to get out of bed. I'm going to take a shower and head over to the hotel. This is going to be an amazing day! I just know it. I might have to say a few extra prayers and talk myself into having some fun, but I'm going to enjoy this "Big Pink Wedding!" ♫

I've Had Just Enough Time...

Isn't that so appropriate? Just enough time. I'm going to be honest here, I never thought I'd make it to 21. That's 21 years old. And here I am, 27 years old...

I don't know what it was. But I always had this feeling, that I'd die young. Believe me, I've been in the position to die more than once. There were car accidents, health issues, and being held at gunpoint. More than once. Have I mentioned how unsafe my job can be?

But for whatever reason, My Dear Lord feels like I need to be on this Earth. He must have better plans for me. And I'm grateful. I get to live. And to have a positive impact on so many lives. It really is amazing.

But this song, since the first day I heard it, it touched something deep in my soul. Something that I couldn't quite understand. But something that just felt right. That felt honest, comforting, and welcoming. I can't explain it.

In more ways that one, I can relate to this song. The lyrics, it's like someone was looking into my heart and soul. No lie. There are very few songs that speak to me like this one. But this song, it just does that to me. And I find a lot of comfort in listening to this beautiful song. ♫

Pumpkin Bear

It's getting close to Halloween. My favorite holiday. I know that sounds weird. But Halloween is a very special day. I owe so much of that to my Auntie C. Halloween was also her favorite holiday. And the day that she went to go rest with the Lord.

But I try to celebrate Halloween. Not let my heart get heavy with grief. I know that is what my Auntie would want. And so, I need to start thinking about decorating. That was always our favorite part of Halloween. I can still see her house. Completely decorated inside and out! It was my favorite place to be!

So I'm getting started. With crocheting a few things. Like this little Pumpkin Bear. It's a free pattern from Free Crochet. And I need to start getting all my decorations out. Hmmm, I wonder where I put "Bones." My favorite outdoor decoration! ♫

When Goodbyes Are Too Tough

My heart is completely broken. Shattered to be exact. My "Superman" has lost his cape. 3 days after finding out, I think I'm finally processing everything. Patrick is no longer with us...

My friend, he was so much more than a friend. He started out as my parents' boss. Then became their friend. He was my mentor and role model growing up. And I can proudly say, as an adult he was my friend. And my second Dad. I say Dad instead of Father, because he was that close to me. That special and important to my heart and soul.

There are more times than I can remember, when I would call him to just talk. Talk about school, life, whatever was on my mind. And he was always there for me. With the best advice. Telling me how important all these things in life were. Like a college education, a good home, responsible finances, a good man to love, and even some time for my hobbies.

I knew Patrick for over 20 years. In those 20 years, he became one of the most important people in my life. I can say that full heartedly. Patrick was there when my family was not. For all the big steps and moments in my life. He was there. I could always count on him.

Even in my darkest days. The days when I wasn't so sure about my next step. He was there for me. Guiding me, and cheering me on. Without ever asking him, Patrick was just there. No matter if it was for a funeral for someone in my family, or just to listen to me talk. He was there for me.

I knew he had health problems. He was battling some of the most critical illnesses that I've ever heard about. But he never complained. Never showed signs of weakness. He was always so strong. So optimistic. Even knowing, that one day he would pass away from these very illnesses.

That's tough. But Patrick taught me so much. Especially in his last few months. He taught me about grace, love, and perseverance. Mostly, he taught me about faith. I always thought I was a religious person. But Patrick is someone who sincerely lived by the ways of God. I will always remember that.

In these tough times, I try to remember the things about Patrick that made me smile and laugh. His love of eating. I don't think there was a single thing the man didn't like. But his favorites included carne adovada and pineapple upside down cake. I would bake him cakes, just to see his eyes light up. Oh and his love for Sabor a Mi. :)

There were also the years and years, of him trying to set me up with his son. It really made me laugh. Nothing could stop him. Not the fact that I went to one high school, and his son to another. Our schools were rivals. He thought we'd be a perfect pair. Because I was a cheerleader and his son was a basketball player. Nevermind years later, when he tried to set us up again. His son had a girlfriend. But Patrick was trying. He never could accept that I'd never be his daughter in law. He even joked that he should have had another son.

I'm going to miss Patrick so very much. He was definitely one of my "7 Pivotal People." I owe so much to Patrick. I'm going to miss those hugs. And our long chats. I'm going to miss the silly e-mails. And the fact that I never got my #2, 3, or 4 pictures. Or that he broke his promise to be at my wedding. But I'm always going to carry Patrick in my heart.

Today was a very fitting day for his burial. Today is Fall Equinox. If you knew anything about Patrick, you'd understand the importance. The big rain storm that we had today, happened just as Patrick was being laid to rest. It felt like the world was weeping for this great man, just like we were. And as I sit here typing, and smelling the fresh crisp air, I can't help but to play back so many great memories of my dear friend, Patrick. Rest in Peace with the Angels in Heaven. One day, we shall meet again. ♫

Fishin' in the Dark

My heart is ridiculously heavy with grief today. It's going to be a tough day. And all I can think about is the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's "Fishin' in the Dark." Weird I know. Maybe it's my brain's way of dealing with this tough day.

I'm not 100% sure what's going on with me today. But this song is helping me get through the day. At least, thus far. And I'm very grateful. It's funny how that works. But this is one of my favorite songs. I don't know why. It just is.

Isn't that weird? There are lots of songs that I just like. I don't really know why. I think that it has a lot to do with my childhood. You know what? Country music will always have a special place in my heart. And today, I really need some of that. Just to get me through the day. ♫

2010 Fall Beauty Trends

On the plane ride home this week, I read this article. There are lots of great products that they talk about. And I had to almost laugh, because lots of these colors, I already wear. So here is my list of favorites, based on the article.


1. Rosy Red Lips: MAC's Russian Red

I've been using this for years! Love it! It's just a nice red lipstick.

2. Stormy Nails: China Glaze in Avalanche and VIII

Avalanche is a grey, silvery color. And VIII is a dark purple. Both are amazing!

3. Blunt Bangs: I have long, side swept bangs.

Blunt bangs aren't for me. My face shape just doesn't go with blunt bangs. I usually don't have bangs either. But I did have long, side swept bangs cut a few weeks ago. :)

4. Natural Skin: Neutrogena Healthy Defense for Sensitive Skin, SPF 50

I always have natural skin. I can't tan. And I think faux tanners look ridiculous!

5. Pink, Cheery Cheeks: MAC's Dollymix

This is just a great color for me. It's the best color out there! It just goes well with my complexion.

6. Beautiful Bun: Bobby pins, a ponytail elastic, and Dove's Non Aerosol Hairspray.

I wear buns a lot for Mariachi. But I like to have a deep, side part. I pretty much put my hair in a low ponytail. And then pin my bun in place. Spray with a little hairspray, and I'm good to go. Just to add a note, I've tried all those new pins for buns, honestly, the bobby pins work better.

7. Natural, Lush Lashes: Max Factor 2000 Calorie, Waterproof Mascara

I know that they don't sell Max Factor anymore in the USA. But this is the best mascara. It lengthens, and volumizes your lashes. And your lashes look amazing! I've tried lots of different mascaras, both high end and drugstore. But I bought a few before they stopped selling them. OK, like 12 tubes. But you can still find them on various websites. Or you could do a swap with someone from the UK.

8. Defined Brows: A good brow waxer and Revlon's Expert Slant Tweezers.

I get my brows waxed pretty regularly. I have to. Because they're pretty thick. Not in uni brow style. But in my eyebrows are long across my face. They go down pretty far. And they are thick as in my brows extended well into my eyelid. I say to get a good brow shaper because I had a horrible experience with a bad one. And I had 2 brows that didn't even look similar. Now I actually go to my friend and MUA for a good wax. And I have the Revlon Tweezers for the occasional stray hair. They're better then the $40 pair of tweezers that I got as a gift.

9. Bold and Crazy Shadow: Urban Decay Hearts NYC Book of Shadows III

There are so many amazing colors in this set. If you don't have a lot of eye shadows, this would be a good investment. I got mine as a gift. And when I checked online, they're not out yet. But keep your eyes open. They should be out in the next few weeks.

10. Textured Waves: Dove's Spray, Leave-in Conditioner and Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly, Finishing Touch Cream.

First off, I should say that I have naturally textured hair. And for the last 6 months or so, I've finally embraced it. My hair is more than wavy, but less than curly. So I use the Dove spray and Herbal Essences cream. The Dove spray is a little hard to find recently. I'm not sure if they're discontinuing it. Or if the stores are just not stocking it. Who knows. Lots of the shelves recently are pretty empty. But I just spray the Dove in my hair, tousle my hair and add the cream. When my hair dries, it's just perfect!


As you can see, I've been wearing lots of these products already. My look is pretty simple. And once I find a look or style that I enjoy, well it just sticks. I've collected lots of these things over time. As to not break the bank. But you can find similar products at the drugstore. And I never feel like I have to wear certain colors during only certain times of the year. Just have fun with it. ♫

Mixed Feelings

So the real reason I'm here, is to sing for Jav's wedding. We sang for his brother's wedding years ago. And by "we" I mean me and S. Hmmm, it kind of stresses me out. Lots of things have changed. Especially in the last year. So I'm just hoping for a nice day.

In fact, he's not even here yet. S is flying in from Mexico City. And we are supposed to be singing "Somos Novios" at the wedding. I mean we're going to sing other stuff. Almost everything that Jav and his fiance requested, was a duet. But this was on the top of their list.

This happens to be the very first song that S and I ever sang together. And it's probably our most requested song to sing. I know it's the one he enjoys the most. But for me, it's a bag of mixed feelings. I'm honored to get to sing for my friends, but I'm stressed about the whole situation with S.

Well, there's not much for me to do at this point. Except get ready. And to go hangout with my Goddaughters. 2 of which, are in the wedding. :) So I'll have something very good, to keep my mind off of all these mixed feelings that I'm having. Maybe one day, someone will sing this song at my wedding... ♫

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! ♫

Save the Date

This week, I was home for all of maybe 3 hours. Work has been beyond insane! But it was long enough to look through my mail. And what was stuffed between the ads and a crap load of credit card applications? A "Save the Date." Between, why do I get so many applications? I just shred them and straight to the trash they go.

Who was the "Save the Date" for? A friend? A relative? Someone I went to school with? Who? It was for Sam. She is the granddaughter to some friends of my parents. They know each other through their Car Club.

What's crazy, she is at least 5 years younger than me. Am I just late at this whole rodeo? Maybe I'm too picky. Or I'm destined to be an "Old Maid." Not sure. But I just think it's weird. Maybe because I feel like you should be closer to 30 before you get married. You know, experience life a little. Live a little. Get to know who you are.

But I think I'm in the minority on those thoughts. Either way, I will be going to a wedding next May. For this sweet girl. Even if I think it's a little crazy. Because you know, I've learned, love just happens. ♫

Vegas Baby!!!

We're done with the crazy performing. Well, at least until tomorrow. And we're on our way to Vegas. Yes, Las Vegas! We're not going to talk about how we almost missed our flight. How there were at least 20 mariachis, with family in tow, running to the gate. :) Or how I still have a full face of makeup on, my big earrings, and these roses in my hair. I did manage to change into a pair of sweats though. But we're flying. Right now. Headed west.

For 2 reasons I came on this trip, to play a concert, and because a friend is getting married. I wasn't going to come. I just couldn't afford it. But when Jav begged me to come and sing for his wedding, well I couldn't say no. I didn't hurt that he called me every single day for 2 weeks! And because he's teaching at the conference, he gets a free hotel room. He said I could have his room, because he lives in Vegas, and he didn't need it. Maestro G also came to the rescue by getting me a ticket with his "Frequent Flyer" miles. So I got a room and a flight for free. :)

It also didn't hurt, when the guys asked me to play the concert with them, on Saturday night. So I get to make some money. Actually, a really good check! And I get to hangout with some friends, listen to a nice concert tonight, and go to Jav's wedding. I'm a pretty lucky lady.

All this, and I don't have to spend any money. I'm not missing any school or work. I think it's a total score! It also doesn't hurt that A is sitting next to me, with Mi Princesa fast asleep. Yes, we are good Godparents. Keeping track of our little princesa.

So you can see, I couldn't say no. I get to spend today and most of tomorrow watching Mi Princesa dance. And My Care Bear and Big M. I get to hangout with some good friends. And enjoy a little bit of the city. But for right now, I'm going to take advantage of our time in the air. And I'm going to join the rest of the cabin in a nap. Talk to you when we get to Vegas. ♫

El Grito

Yes, I'm working all day today. Performing. For "El Grito." Or Mexico's Independence Day. It's a HUGE one too! It's their bicentennial.

Even with all the violence across the border, there is a HUGE celebration planned. And we're working it. Lots of gigs. As in, I don't expect to go home at all! We're leaving for the airport after our last show. At 3AM!

But these are always fun events. We're playing it safe. And staying on the USA side of the border. But we have a mass amount of gigs planned. I'm perfectly fine with that! I need the money for school. I just hope that people go to have fun. And not be stupid.

So folks, I'm going to be performing. Lots of playing, singing, and dancing. But I'm happy to do it. And to be able to be around my friends all day long. There are so many reasons why I love Mariachi. This is just one of them. Now it's time to hit the road...south I go. ♫

Hoarders

Have you ever watched the show Hoarders? I have an insane need to watch it. I don't know why. But I just have to watch it. There is something about the people who suffer from this illness, and the professionals who try to help. The fact that many people, know this behavior is wrong. But they just can't make the changes on their own. I don't have cable. So I watch it here.



This week the episodes were a little crazy. OK, they were really nuts! Teri and her family, I just felt so bad for them. And Kerry, honestly, the man broke my heart. The couple lives in Hawaii. And Teri is in so much denial. Even though most of their home is unusable. And their children have to sleep with them. The couple has 2 young children. And CPS was called. It was honestly a sad situation. But I do think this family has some hope. They made some big changes during the time of filming. Adella, she has no business living alone. We all knew she would be right back there again. Honestly, she had already lost one home. Did we think the situation would improve? I have little to no hope, that a real change will happen.

Gordon and Gaye, well I'm speechless. They are given just over 72 hours to clean up and repair their home. Or else it would be condemned by the city. The family gets crazy. They blame everyone else for their issues. And don't want to continue forward. But the authorities know about their hoard. And Sir Patrick, I don't think I've ever met anyone quite like him. His home is completely stuffed with everything and anything you can imagine. He believes that all his stuff is valuable. Treasures. Even though most of his collection, really isn't worth much. It's just "junk."

Hoarders both disgusts me, and makes my heart break. If you really watch the show, you know what I mean. It's about way more than the mess. Most of these people have so many issues. Lots of mental issues. Most of the women have been sexually abused. The hoard is generally about protecting oneself. Or feeling less lonely.

The mess is never really about the mess. There is always something else going on. This show really takes you in, and makes you a part of it. If you haven't seen it yet, I would recommend watching an episode or two. ♫

Sugar Plum Scarf & Ski Band

This was a free crochet pattern from Free Crochet. It was available sometime last week. It just makes me smile. Because it means that Fall and Winter are just around the corner. Yes, I really like the cooler weather. And I really LOVE scarves! I really do like this pattern, the stitch, and the color. I should probably start making me one. But I think I will make it cream or white. ♫

IcyBag

I really need one of these IcyBags. Seriously, I need one! I live in the desert. I'm not even going to talk about the makeup meltdown I had last summer. Let's just say, 2 lipsticks, 1 cream eyeshadow pallet, and 1 cream blush later...well I had a HUGE mess! My makeup was melted together...all over my back seat. At least I have leather seats...

And this wasn't the first time that's happened. Yes, this particular time, I had left my car for 5 minutes. Yes, 5 minutes! The time before that, I was in high school. And I left 5-6 lipsticks in my car. Not sure what I was thinking. But it was just a big pink blob when I got back from practice.

But this is definitely something I want to buy soon. Yes, I live in the desert. It's ridiculously hot 10 months out of the year. No lie! But it would also be nice to have with me for gigs. Then I'd actually take makeup to touch up with. Now, I just put whatever on, and pray that 20 hours later, when I get home, that my makeup still looks decent. ♫

Lavender Heaven

I'm not even going to talk about what time we got back. Just that it was early this morning. But what a game! I'm so glad I got to go! :)

My best friend is actually taking a nap right now. The house is so quiet. So I decided to climb into a nice hot bath. With some of my favorite products! The Healing Garden's Lavender products. Oh, they are amazing. Smell so yummy. And make you feel like you died and went to heaven. No lie! It's amazing!

So that's what I did. I soaked in the bath. And let my tired muscles rest. I'm determined to get some sleep before the wedding this weekend. But I can't make any promises. Now I need to go pack. We're leaving sometime today. When? I have no idea. Whenever my boss gets out of work.

Until then, I'm going to enjoy a little more time with my best friend. And get some studying done. I have to work all week too. So I have a lot on my plate. It's a good thing I brought these yummy products. Because I really did need that bit of relaxation. ♫

Redskins Baby!

I bet you had no clue, that I like the Washington Redskins. I mean, I really like them! As in, they're my favorite NFL team! The Vikings are coming in a very close 2nd...thanks to Favre.

But the point to today's post is this. I get to go to the game today! Yes! I get to go, and sit in an amazing box. And watch this team play! It totally makes my day. I really did almost pee my pants, when my boss asked me to go with him and a bunch of friends. Yes, just moments ago! I'm pumped and ready to go!

Oh ya. We're also throwing another Baby Shower and BBQ thing for my best friend today. And she has no idea. I haven't slept since Wednesday. And I can't stop thinking about this game! Did I mention the cute jersey that I also just got? I can't wait! I love football Sundays!

But first, I need to get ready for church. I hope everyone has a great Sunday! You know who I'll be cheering on! Are you going to watch any football games today? ♫

We Will Never Forget

I don't know about you, but I'll never forget September 11, 2001. I was a freshman in college. Literally, I had been in school for just a few weeks. I was living on my own for the first time. And I was 100s of miles from any relatives.

That morning I was running late. Why? I don't really know. But as I went to turn the TV off and run out the door, GMA came on. I'll never forget the look in Diane Sawyer's eyes. It was so scared, and sad. I sat down on my bed and watched. I literally didn't know what to do.

I remember seeing the 2nd plane hit the World Trade Center. And I felt all the air being sucked out of my body. I didn't know what to do. But I had to get to school. As I drove, it looked like a relatively normal day. Except, it was really foggy. Totally odd for the desert.

When I got to school, I turned on a TV in the lobby of the Music Center. And I continued to watch GMA. More students came, as well as professors. And we watched as The White House was evacuated. Shortly, President Bush addressed the nation. We hear that another airplane has hit the Pentagon. And that yet another might be in "serious trouble."

Our professors were white as ghosts. Nobody wanted to move. We didn't know what to do. Or what to expect. Just before 8AM MST, we watched the South Tower collapse. We were numb. Didn't know what to say, or what to think. We knew our country was being attacked.

This should have been the moment we started singing. The moment that our class would have normally started. With 30 something music majors. Too tired to deal with "Ear Training." Instead, we were watching an attack on our country.

Around 8:30AM, we watched the North Tower collapse. We also learned of the crash in Pennsylvania. At this point, our professors took it upon themselves, to cancel our classes. Our university, well was pretty much deserted. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, we were always the 1st department with classes.

I remember getting into my car. And hearing so many sirens. Seeing low flying aircraft. And seeing the National Guard driving down the road in their big military vehicles. I'd actually run into a few guard members, on the way to my car. They were securing our university. And there was also a bomb threat at our local newspaper.

Being that we are located in the middle of so many military bases, it wasn't strange to see the military out and about. But like this, it just sent chills down to your bones. You saw so many emergency vehicles going in all directions. Which was so crazy for our small town. As I got near my home, I figured it would probably be wise to fill up my car with gas. I drove down the deserted street, and I filled up.

Then I headed downtown. I needed a book for the following day. That is, if we were going to have class. I got there just as the owner was closing up shop. He quickly sold me the book. And told me to go home, and to stay there.

I drove to the local Wal-Mart. Maybe not the smartest thing. But I got there, bought lots of water and some food. I had no clue what the next few days would hold. By the time I got home, it was just after 10AM. My nephew, he was nowhere to be found. He had already started to go back home.

Me? I called my parents. They were in a mess. Trying to get students home. Dealing with the chaos. I remember feeling relief. I heard their voices. And I knew they were OK. We hung up. But not before telling each other, that we loved one another. And I turned on the TV.

I watched coverage from that point until 4PM. When I had to go back to school for rehearsal. All classes were cancelled. But not our rehearsal. I remember watching these events unfold. And feeling so sick. So helpless. So lost.

After our rehearsal, I walked outside. And I saw a mass of people. They had gathered in the middle of the field. Praying, singing, and crying. Everyone had candles. I joined in. And all I could think about was my best friend. I knew she was going on a trip to NYC that day. I prayed that she was OK. But I hadn't talked to her.

I'll never forget that day. Or the days following. The feeling of patriotism. The constant crying when I watched the TV coverage. How alone I felt. It was scary. And I was so sick to my stomach, that so many people lost their lives.

I see today as a time to stop and reflect. To think about that day. And to celebrate the innocent lives that were lost. All those people who had no idea what was happening. To the heroes that died trying to do good. September 11, 2001 was a day that has forever changed us. But it's a day to remember and reflect. It's a day to remember loved ones. To remember the lives that were cut short. It's a day to say God Bless America. We're still the land of the free, and the home of the brave. ♫

So Pretty!

I happen to be in love with this hairstyle! I seen it this morning. Yes, I know. I shouldn't be watching YouTube videos this morning. But oh well. It happened, as I was trying to wake up.

Today is my best friend's Baby Shower. I'm co-hosting it with some friends. And I have an amazingly cute dress to wear. Thanks to my amazing boss! He's also the reason I got to come. Can we all say, "Thank you!" He really is amazing. And I can safely say, he's also a great friend!

So I think I'm going to try this. It will look nice with my dress. I just got out of the shower. And I really need to start getting ready. There is so much to do still! And the Baby Shower is in just a few hours. Oh, I also didn't get much sleep. But more on that later. ♫

In Time for Fall

I've been dreaming of cool, crisp days. Pumpkins lining the sidewalks. And the beautiful colors, of the changing leaves. Yes, I'm already craving Fall. My second favorite time of year.

Fall just makes me so excited. I think of spiced tea. Cuddly sweaters. Tons of apples. Yummy pumpkin dishes. And lots of soups and stews. All the things that make Fall, well Fall. I enjoy taking long walks. With the leaves rustling about. The air so crisp, you can feel it as you breathe.



This picture, well it's the entire reason I'm dreaming of Fall. Aren't these just the cutest cupcakes around? They make me yearn for Fall. When the weather turns crisp. And you begin to pull out your winter scarves and sweaters. Until the weather changes, I'm going to continue to be inspired. And come up with some yummy Fall desserts. ♫

Sunshine Chicken

Sunshine Chicken

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 c. molasses
2 T. cider vinegar
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 T. orange juice
2 t. Dijon mustard
1/8 to 1/4 t. hot pepper sauce

Arrange chicken in a slow cooker; set aside. Combine remaining ingredients and brush over chicken. Cover and cook on low setting for 7 to 9 hours, or on high setting for 3 to 4 hours. Serves 6.

This happens to be this week's "Recipe of the Week" at Gooseberry Patch. And it sounds amazing! Because of the next few weeks, I don't have time to make it. But it's definitely going on my "to-make" list. And I can't wait to get to cook again. I really do miss it! ♫

I Want These

Do I need these shoes? Probably not. But I'd really like to have them. I don't know what it is about them. I just really like them. And I mean these green shoes. Not the purple ones, that you'd think I'd like. But these green ones.

Now if I just had $44. Ugh! The joys of going to college and always being poor. I'd put these on my "Wishlist," for Christmas or whatever. But I highly doubt I'd get them. Who would buy me sneakers?

Oh well. A gal can wish. I honestly don't know why I like these shoes so much. But I just do. I seen a friend wearing them not too long ago. Well, the "Guy" version of them. These shoes are much more adorable! And what is with green and me lately? ♫

Earning My Pay

Take a mix of these 4 videos, add in a little Juareno style, OK a lot of Juareno style, and you have what me and A are working on. For what? An upcoming show for El Grito.













And how did this happen you ask? Well, S and I always used to dance at our gigs. "La Chiquitita" became known for it. And after the organizers of this gig, found out that I was playing, well they asked me to dance. Because S now lives in Mexico City, I needed a new dance partner...in walked A.

Because our Goddaughter, Mi Princesa, dances folklorico style, we had a shoe in. A sweet talked her teacher, and she helped us put together a nice polka. Just with a lot more Juareno style to it. You know how they dance. Do I really have to describe it? I mean, I'm sure at some point or another, you've seen a Mexican couple dancing.

Let's just put it this way, I was a little embarrassed when Mi Princesa was watching us. Oh, and after the first rehearsal, I couldn't look A in the eye for at least a week. Ya, we were THAT CLOSE! I'm sure we now have a complete and honest idea of what each other has. But that's how the people dance around here.

I'm personally more used to dancing to this type of polka. Just a lot faster.




But we are definitely going to be earning our paycheck on the day of El Grito. Playing, singing, and dancing. Oh boy! I hope I survive the 2 day celebration. :) I think we're playing a total of 36 hours in 2 days. Something insane and crazy like this. And this, it happens to just be 1 of the many dances that A and I are adding into our shows. ♫

Baby Shower

It's almost time for my best friend's Baby Shower. And I have so much to do still. Seriously, I might go nuts! I have so much stuff to do. Like making some bunting to decorate with, making some prizes for all the games, oh and some of her presents too.

I'm co-hosting the Baby Shower with some other friends. And I'm traveling to NC for it. Yes, my best friend lives in NC. And after some good planning, it ain't going to cost me a thing to go! How? Well, I'm going to be the Godmother to this little princess. And her Godfather, well he travels a lot. And he has his own transportation to get across the country. Well, I'll be hitching a ride. :)

The 4 hostesses, well we've split up the tasks. The Godfather is letting us have the Baby Shower at his large house. And we're going to cook everything on "Baby Shower Day." Are we nuts? We might be. But that's the way life goes.

I bought some fabric. And I desperately need to make the bunting. I've already cut out some aprons and other kitchen type things. I just need to sit down and sew. Oh, and I need to make a breast feeding cover up. There are still some other little things I need to finish. But I'm positive that I can get it done. Oh, I have 9 days until the Baby Shower! ♫

Pink V-Stitch Baby Throw

Another really cute blanket for my best friend's baby girl. Yes, I'm adding this one to the mix. But I don't know what color to make it. I'm thinking a nice varigated yarn. I just love this stitch though. And honestly, My Lil' Southern Belle is not going to be lacking in anything handmade, if I have anything to do with it. Now I just need to get some yarn. ♫