We LOVE You Texas!

My heart breaks. I've cried more tears, than I can tell you about. This tragedy in Texas...makes me feel like I've been punched in the gut!

16 years ago, I moved for college. And I never realized, how the Lone Star State would capture my heart. I've worked in Texas. 95% of my professional training, was done in Texas. And I have so many friends, who are Texans. Had my parents' health been good, I'd be a proud Texas resident. Yes, the Lone Star State has my heart!

When Harvey hit, my heart broke. Immediately, I started texting, emailing, and Skyping friends. What else could I do? I started asking them...What do you need? How can I help? I'm praying for you.

I researched locally. And in Texas. Many people I've talked to, said they need diapers, pet food, pet toys, kid toys, and infant necessities...such as blankets, clothes, and formula. Diapers are not something, that are given in disaster packs. Neither is pet supplies.

Locally, our chapters of the Red Cross are asking for monetary donations. And bottled water. Right now, the rest is too much. But I've been on the phone. Trying to get in touch, with organizations headed to Texas.

Why? Because I know, there are many New Mexicans who would like to donate. Who don't have extra money. But they have extra toys, clothes, and house goods. Maybe a family can't afford to donate $20. But they have some extra wipes, dog treats, or adult diapers. I've talked to 2 separate organizations. And we're trying to set up, some sort of pickup. I'll keep you posted. I'm 100% on board, to organize what I can.

Locally, Channel 7 is linking up with ABC, for their Day of Giving. I know, even $1...can make a HUGE difference. Just think about it. If tomorrow, all you had was your family...Who would be there for you? If today, your home was destroyed, and all you had, were the clothes on your back...what would you do?

These people have no homes, cars, clothes, toys for their kids, or supplies for their pets. People have died. The water is contaminated. I worked a flood, years ago. It's heartbreaking. But you see the best of people come out, during the toughest of times. I had friends who lost everything. And I was blessed enough, to open my home to them. You saw small children, give other children...their favorite toys. The smallest of gestures, made the largest impact!

So I feel like, I need to step up again. This time, I have the outlook, from a nonprofit.  Since starting Love For Blue, I've seen the greater need. How much, is needed in our communities. How even the smallest bit, can help so many!

I don't have a ton of money...personally. But I do have time to organize your donations. And I also have a talent. Crochet. In the coming week, I'll be making items. And I'll have a post, at Two Crafty Hearts. The items I put in that post, I'll sell. And then donate the money to the Houston Food Bank and the Texas Diaper Bank.

You may not have a lot. But we have more, than our fellow Americans. Who are going through such a tough time. All I can think is...what if that was me? My family. My inner circle. It's time to get out your big 'ol Texas heart...and help a little. All of us together, can make such a difference!

XOXO,
Desiree

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday everyone! It's time for this week\s Friday Favorites. Hope you had a good week. I know mine, just flew by! And I'm excited to get this weekend started!

As usual, I'm linking up to some of my favorite blogs. Hope you do too! I love to read, these kind of posts. 

 1. Sleep. As crazy as it sounds, this week I was so HAPPY to sleep! It's been crazy around here lately. And I've not been taking care of myself. So sleep was welcomed with open arms. Late afternoon naps, with a certain pup...were just what I needed this week!

 2 . Time with friends. I have a ton of friends. But over the last few years, I don't take much time for them. It's a sad situation. I know. And I HATE it! But it is, what it is.

Well, this week...we met some friends for lunch. Just a little time to talk, laugh, and eat yummy food. Oh, and hangout with my favorite kindergartner!

It also reminded me, that my Mom and I need some time to just breathe. Last week was absolutely crazy! And we get so caught up in orders, Markets, and all that...that we honestly forget to just enjoy life. Tuesday, we just got to enjoy a little down time. The view was pretty incredible too!

 3. Good food. Along the lines of all our craziness...we haven't really been eating well. Until Monday. When we made dinner. And then shared food with our friends, on Wednesday. My Mom made a pot of green chili stew. It was so yummy!

Then came my favorite meal of the week. Thursday night dinner! All the veggies , except the carrots and mushrooms, came from my friend Tino. You should really go visit him at one of the Growers' Markets. His produce is amazing!

I chopped, sliced, and diced veggies. Added some tilapia. And everything went into foil packs...on the grill! It was AMAZING! And we had practically, no clean up. Win-win! Wish I had made more. So I could have enjoyed leftovers today.

 4. The Busbys. They just make me smile. Every single week, I look forward to their show. I watch a ton of reality shows. But OutDaughtered, is my favorite. Right now. Just feel good TV. Lots of laughs. And those babes! Especially little Hazel.

 5. My latest project. My cousin ordered these foot rattles. For her grandson. I had the best time, trying to figure them out. I hope they like them. I'll see them tonight. I have plans, for future sets. Making the balls, into little animals and such. And that little wooden car, was a Railyards score. Super cute! I picked up a couple, for presents.

 6. Back to school. This time of year, always feels so special. My Dad used to make going to school, a magical time. With brand new school supplies. Pens of every color! Anything to make, me smile. And start the school off, on a good foot.

But honestly, I just think of my Dad. How he'd get excited. Later in my life, we'd put together backpacks. With school supplies. And find families that needed them. He'd be getting the business ready for a new school year. So excited! He lived, for the beginning of school.

So this time of year, reminds me of my Dad. Which makes me smile. On Monday, when school started. I watched the kids heading to the bus stop. Because it's right by our house. All the kids, lugging their supplies. Half asleep. And when they came home, they looked exhausted. But were so excited. A couple stopped by, I was looking for something in my car. And showed me pictures that they had colored. :)

7. Naked Nails. I have way more nail polish...than any human should. No lie! So I decided at the beginning of the summer, to make the effort. Polish my nails, at least once a week. And you know what? I've been doing pretty well.

When the summer began, I started polishing my nails. At least once a week. Honestly, I got into a real good groove...twice a week. If it was a special week, 3 times. I was working my way, through my collection. Then this week happened...

I've had naked nails all week! I really tried to get it together last night. But it still didn't happen. I pulled out these 5 colors. Was trying to decide what was fun...and still summery.

But I fell asleep. Last night. And we have a busy weekend. So I'll be sporting naked nails until Monday. I hope to be motivated when Monday rolls around. Because I was on a good streak. And my collection...needs me to use it!

If you are wondering about the nail polish in the picture...here we go. Left to right. Orly's Passion Fruit. It's the best hot pink for summer. Salon Perfect in Go Granny Apple. It's a fun green color. I like to wear it in August and September. When the weather is starting to change. Next is China Glaze, Turned Up Turquoise. Hands down, one of my favorite colors! OPI Cajun Shrimp. A fun orange color. Lastly, OPI Do You Have This Color In Stockholm. Another color, that I grab quite often. Because I really do love purple!

8. Pink Sunset. I got this as a prize, last month. We went to a Baby Shower. And I won this lotion and the body spray. I wasn't sure about the scent. But was happy to have the matching set. Being that I won 2 different games.

You know what? I LOVE this! It's summery. Without being citrus. The perfect amount of scent. Without being over the top. It's watermelon and coconut scented. But it's not over powering. To me, it just smells like summer. On a beach. I need to buy, about 10 more bottles of the body spray. :)

 9. Cowboy Boots. Since I hurt my back a few weeks ago, I decided to start wearing my boots. More often. It just helps my back. Weird I know. But it works. And that's all I need to know. Besides, it makes me happy...to put any of my Cowboy boots on!

10. Beauty and the Beast. I've had this soundtrack, on repeat. All week! Beauty and the Beast has been my favorite...since I can remember. When I was in 3rd grade, I even decorated my room...in Beauty and the Beast. So this have been a fun distraction. You know, while I work through all my crochet orders.

Well, I got to go. We are selling at an event this morning. And have a birthday party, tonight. The start to a very busy weekend! With lots of Family Time. My favorite kind of weekend!

XOXO,

Desiree

The American Rome

A few weeks ago, my sister wanted to meet for dinner. My Mom and I were thinking we'd take her out, for her birthday. My sister, in all her grand-ness, wanted to take us out. It's one of those fights, that I know I'll never win. My sister ALWAYS manages to steal the bill. Even when I buy the movie tickets, I find a $20 in my purse, when I get home.

We don't see my sister much. My Littlest Big Sista works in the movie industry. And is gone, months at a time. So getting together, doesn't happen much. It's time that we cherish when we have it. So I wrapped up my sister's birthday present. And we headed to Chili's.

As usual, my sister comes with a plan. She, like me, would much rather spend time together. Than you know, shower each other with gifts. But Sista Jae still showed up, with a ton of stuff for us. If you follow me on Instagram, you got a little sneak at our evening. Flowers, cards, and giftcards...for both my Mom and I. Late birthday present for me. Mother's Day and my Momma's birthday. We ate through a table of food. And somehow, crammed in some Baskin Robbins.

But it was more than that. It was the catching up. The conversations. The laughter. Those are the moments I cherish. Sitting there, just talking...reminds me of my Dad. He ALWAYS told me, Jae was the one...that I should put the effort into. You see, being the youngest of 9...hasn't left me with close sibling relationships. I grew up alone. With many years between my sibs and I. It's been a difficult road. But my Dad NEVER wanted me to give up on my sister.

The day before, my sister had called me. Wanted to double check our plans. Make sure we were going to the same place. Had the right time. After we chatted for a bit, I gave the phone to my Momma. I went to the living room, to work on some projects. An hour later, my pup wanted a snack. And when we walked into the kitchen...my Momma was laying on the couch. Relaxed and chatting away with my sister. She reminded me, of a teenager. Laughing away. Laying down...legs crossed. It made my heart sing! I think they were on the phone for 3 hours. No lie!

So on that Friday evening, when my sister was telling us she'd be gone for months...my heart sank. Months without her. Because her partner landed a job in Washington DC. And as casual as one would say Hello...she invited us to DC!

WHAT?!?!?! Yes, they're getting an apartment. "Ma, what do you think? You guys can come out for a week or two. Sister we can go see a Redskins' game. We can cook, explore, do it all!" No need to tell me twice. I was sold! And so was my Momma!

You see, I've ALWAYS LOVED history. And I've dreamt of going to DC. For as much traveling as I've done, it's the one place I really haven't visited. I say this...knowing I've gone to see a Redskins' game. In 2010, I flew across the country. Planned and hosted a Surprise Baby Shower...for my Bestie. And when baby girl's Nino got home from work...after the shower, he surprised me. With tickets to the game. We flew in, saw the game, and flew out. Friends in high places...

It was AMAZING! Flying private jet. Seeing my favorite NFL team. Sitting in one of THOSE boxes! Seeing that beautiful skyline at night. I told him, in the wee hours of that morning...one day I'd be back. And I meant it! Not necessarily the NFL game. But this beautiful city! Sorta like the Queen City. How many times have I been? But I'm dying to just explore the city.

Fast forward 6 1/2 years. And my friends got the opportunity to take their 5 kiddos. D had some sort of conference. And it landed in the middle of Spring Break 2017. The entire week they were gone, their kiddos sent me text messages, emails, and Skyped their trip. Showing me all the sites. Oh, I wanted to jump through my phone. It looked so beautiful.

I knew exactly what was going through my Momma's head. The instant my sister planted that seed! She had the same look, that I had...running through my brain. Essentially, we just need to get airline tickets. Have some spending money. You know. The basics.

But here's the thing. We were invited to go to Las Vegas. In fact, our family is leaving in days. Bachelorette weekend of sorts. My Mom is not well enough for travel. You know...she can't be walking up and down the strip. Most days, she sleeps well past 9AM. And the whole, 8+ people sharing a room. Just ain't happening. Being that my Mom needs rest, hanging out with a bunch of people, ready to party and have fun, probably isn't the best. And it's an expense, to a city that we're not into. So we said no...

I mean, I've been to Sin City, more times than I can count. Here's the thing, it was for work. I'm not into the drinking, partying, craziness...that's Vegas. Neither is my Mom. Every trip I've ever made there, has been for work. or my Bestie's wedding. And my highlights revolve around an Animal style burger...and mini Wedding cake. Maybe some shopping. And hanging out, at my bosses' homes.

So the expense of a trip, that we're not into...was not something I was interested in. I mean, I could call said boss, and he'd 99.9% hook me up with some amazing suite. His mom and mine...would enjoy hanging out together. But it's really not the kind of trip, that gets my Mom and I excited. Especially since things are real tight around here. You know, having a chronic illness, isn't cheap. In fact, I need to come up with $1500 in the next few weeks. Darn medical bills! But it needs to happen, so my Momma can get the care she needs.

So how do I justify a trip across the country? I really don't. My sister is dying for us to go. We even talked about spending Thanksgiving out there. But my Momma is sick. And she doesn't travel much. Honestly. Yes, she went to California last summer. But she didn't really relax. Or get to do what she wanted. So a real vacation is in order.

Not to mention, she's sick. I don't know if we'll have her next year. Or in 6 months. Or if she'll live another 20 years. But I don't want to regret this. There is such potential, to make memories, on this trip. But after taking a look at things, I'm taking myself out of this equation. You know, hopefully my sister and I, have years to make memories. And hopefully, I have 20+ years, to get myself to DC. Right at this moment, my entire goal, is to get my Momma there.

Funny thing is, the morning after our dinner...I was asked to help a friend out. Who owns a business. And will have a booth, at the State Fair. She needs help, running things. Immediately, I said yes! Didn't think twice. Figured I could clear my schedule. Do whatever is necessary. And I hope things work out. I plan to use the money, to get my Mom a ticket. And send her, with some spending money.

I've been checking tickets, for a few weeks now. Roughly $275-350. Looking closer to the holidays, it triples! But it's not out of reach. You know, if you work hard. And pray harder. Who knows what can happen.

No matter if she decides to go for Thanksgiving, before, or after...I'm out. Because we also have these 2 little pups. And that would cost an arm and a leg...to board them. They probably wouldn't even take our crazy cocker spaniel. And I just don't see anyone being able to watch them for us.

So I'm OK with staying home. As long as my Mom gets to go. I'm sure, I have a friend or 2, to spend the holiday with. I know I can keep our little mutts happy. And I know, my Mom will be in good hands. You know, she can go at her pace. If she needs to rest...she has a room. If she wants to go somewhere, or do something...I know my sister will make it happen. If there's a day, that she just needs to stay in, she can.

And I think it's what my Momma needs. Something fun, relaxing, and time with my sister and Shawn. Sometimes you just have to "adult," and do what's best for another person. You know, DC will always be there. And I'm sure I can figure out, how to get there in my lifetime. Y'all...I managed to get myself to a Redsox game. So I'm confident.

Until then, ya that's me busting my butt. Hauling our Crafts...from Market to Market. You know 5 Markets, in 8 days. Almost killed me! But totally worth it. Until I sit down and crunch the numbers. Have you seen our tags? Only one color goes to us. Well, 2 if we get real technical. The pink and green. Orange tags, go to pay my Mom's medical bills. Yellow is for our Scholarship Fund. Blue is for the foundation. And purple is for our Fun Mail Fridays.

So when any given weekend shakes out, we might actually pocket 1/4 of the money. The rest, goes to our foundation or bills. So it's going to be a long road. We have a ton of Shows and Markets lined up. I'm working for about 10 days at the Fair. And I'm working my way, through a ton of orders! Speaking of...if you want to order anything, you can reach me at TwoCraftyHeartsOrders (at) gmail (dot) com. If you include WDCT (Washington DC Trip) somewhere in the email, I'll make sure the money goes to my Momma's trip.

I've got just over 2 months. I hope to buy the airline ticket, before the end of this month. At the latest, mid-September. And hope to continue to save money...to send my Mom with a good amount of spending money. You know, so she can enjoy herself. Enjoy the entire experience. And have fun with my sister. Maybe head a little further north...for some exploring.

Speaking of, I haven't told my Mom or sister any of this. I figure if I can get my Mom there, my sister will take care of most of the rest. She is already planning family dinners. And adventures. My sister is like that. My job, is to get my Momma there. To take care of her. I promised my Dad that. And I mean, to do everything possible, to make it happen.

XOXO,
Desiree

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites

To All Their Mommas

I'm in my mid thirties. An Aries. MDRD by day. Musician by night. Turned professional crafter. LOVE to decorate for every holiday. Bake a million things a week, and then deliver them to family, friends, and neighbors.

I'm 30 something, and have never brought a man home. To meet my family. My friends, became my family, when I needed them most! I'm independent. And stubborn. I'm not dating. And have no kids.

I have a home. Take care of my Momma. And our 2 pups. I'm also the ONLY female...between my parents' friends. Friends who all have sons. Who MOSTLY don't like their daughters-in-law. And constantly, want me to be their next daughter-in-law.

Let me tell you, as much as you know about me...you don't know the REAL ME. I know that most of these wonderful ladies, have known me at least 20 years. If not, my ENTIRE life. But you still don't know ME. The real person inside. That has dreamt of babes, since I was 4 years old. Who cries herself to sleep, because I miss my Daddy that much. And the woman who panics, because her Momma gets an unexpected pain.

I thought maybe, YOU needed this letter. You know, before you kick out your current DIL. And start planning for your son and I to get hitched. And have a million babes. Because this quiet girl...she's got a TON of baggage!



Dear Mommas,

Yes, I'm 30 something or another. You've never seen me bring home a boyfriend. Or heard me talk of one. But that doesn't mean, I don't have a history. That there hasn't been a gentleman or two...or however many, that hasn't stolen this girl's heart. With a deep southern drawl, heavy accent, blue eyes, loving spirit, or gentle heart.

My heart has done flips. And pitter patters. I've dreamt of a house full of the cutest blue eyed babes. I have looked like that heart eyed emoji...more than once. I've also had a house completely full, of 4 and unders. Playing games, decorating cupcakes, and dressed head to toe...in princess outfits. Because I'm the coolest Nana, Tia, and T-Lo around!

I'm much more, than the quiet and polite lady, that you see. Much more, than the gal that sends you cards for holidays and birthdays, shows up with pineapple upside down cake, or lends a hand...when you least expect it. Those are all things, that bring me joy. But it's the tiniest part, of who I am.

5 minutes before any event...I'm usually the last person you want to see. Short. Sometimes yelling. Running around in my underwear. A sea of clothes, on the floor. Trying to find the car keys. Probably herding 2 pups into the kitchen, dropping dog treats, 1 shoe on, trying to find my Mom's cane, and probably trying to wrap up some sort of dessert. Yes, I probably need a lesson in patience. And time management. And I'm probably a hot and sweaty mess!

I own too much makeup. Especially since I REFUSE only wear it to go to a funeral, wedding, and maybe out to a special dinner. Let's not talk about my nail polish collection. And how every single time, I open a drawer, at least 10 bottles come crashing out. Or the weirdness...that is my hair!

Surprise me with a visit? I'm probably in some sort of workout clothes. Or oversized sweats. With maybe a 25% chance, that I actually went on a walk that day. If you're real lucky, I'm in my PJs. Because what is better than PJs. I'm not sure, whether it is day 1, 2, or 3 in the same PJs. Going to daily Mass, has improved this somewhat. But who are we kidding.? I'm usually home by 7:30AM...and back in those PJs.

I'm less likely to have $20 in my purse to lend you. And 99.9% sure, you'll instead find yarn and a crochet hook. Because I'm impossibly behind on my orders. Yes, I'm a college educated woman. With hundreds of thousands of dollars, worth of degrees. And I haven't worked full time, in so many years...I can't remember. Because my family comes first! And I've been a full time caregiver, for 7 years. Oh, and I'm ALMOST 100% certain, that I'll have a piece of dark chocolate in that purse.

Speaking of families, I pray that your son, is close to his siblings. I know he comes from a good family...because I know you. But I don't know about his relationships, with his siblings. I say this, because mine suck! Bad! Not all my fault. It's just what happens in a blended family. That didn't blend well. And I want to have some good relationships in my life. I want my kiddos, to have aunts and uncles...that I can trust. Who will love my kiddos, unconditionally.

A total bonus, if your son takes my Momma out. Like once a month. Nothing fancy. Maybe to lunch. Or to the Natural History Museum. Something. Get to know her. Love her, like she's their momma. Make her feel included. I'm all she's got.

Know that I will try my hardest, to split holidays. Between our families. But truth be known...there is no negotiating on Christmas Eve. From 4-7PM...we will be at the cemetery. Decorating graves. Visiting my Daddy. It's what we do. And it will NOT change. We also don't open presents, until Christmas morning. After church...and breakfast. Who am I kidding...we're lucky to open Christmas presents before New Year's Day. It's ALWAYS been this way in my family!

I'm hard headed. Set in my ways. I don't trust people. I find it hard to let people in. I don't communicate well. I almost always check messages (text, FB, emails) 2 months too late. But if your someone special, I always try my best to call you. Or send you something in the mail. Speaking of mail, I LOVE to get a handwritten card or note...even a cute picture from a kiddo.

I like to spend lazy Sundays, reading books. Rainy nights, on the porch. Doing nothing. But watching the rain fall. And early mornings, alone with my Bible. Church is also a MUST! Every single Sunday. No questions asked. God is #1 in my life. And I pray every single day, to find a man, who has put God in that #1 spot too!

If your son doesn't like dogs, we probably won't like each other. I'm a Momma, to one very crazy girl. Who has to suck her Momma's thumb, like a bottle. And reads/watches Little Critter Go To Bed on my iPad. Just so she can sleep. Yes, she sleeps with me. And there is also a good chance, my Mom's crazy dog is sleeping with me too!

My dog, is like a baby. She has a better wardrobe, than most people I know. Gets multiple baths a week. Goes on car rides. Jams to Bruno Mars. Wakes me up, with puppy kisses. And steals everyone's heart. She has better insurance than I have. And will most likely, become a big sister, before 2018.

Yes, I will cook for your son, do his laundry, and clean the house. I will change dirty diapers...but ONLY those of my own babes! Speaking of my babes...they will have cloth diapers and be breast fed. When they need baby food...I will make that too. I've had lots of practice with my Goddaughters!

I know you stalk my Instagram feed, Twitter page, and Facebook. And you comment about the food I make. But what you don't know is, when I'm tired...or it's too hot...we eat cereal. Or Little Cesar's pizza. I'm keeping it real here. But you can ALWAYS count on us having freshly baked cakes. And dog treats!

I also do my laundry at 2AM. Because I can't sleep. And it's cheaper. I like to hang my clothes on a clothesline. And do our dishes by hand. I don't like to share the remote. Or iron clothes. And I find it most comfortable, to sleep on the floor. Also, have you ever realized, I never use the restroom around you? I have a phobia about that. Only at home, and I don't like to share a bathroom. I know, I have problems! But you need to know these things.

I'm also crazy, when it comes to OCD. Either everything has it's place, or it's total chaos. I like to clean people's refrigerators...and closets. Nothing gives me more pleasure, than a well stocked pantry and fridge. That are organized. Oh, and on a regular I buy onions, garlic, cilantro, persimmons, mushrooms, broccoli rabe, and leeks. And I cook with them! If you're eating my food, these things are in the dishes I make!

But if your son is looking for anything fried...like chicken, sopapillas, or fries...I don't do it. I'm scared to death, of hot oil. I can't fry an egg, if my life depended on it! I also don't make posole, menudo, pig's feet, sheep's brain, or tamales. So you better be on speed dial. I don't eat them. And I don't make them.

I drive too fast. I've been told, my driving is a mix of Texas and Mexico. I get road rage. All the time! And HATE for people to mess with the radio. But I have music ADD in the car. I am also known for having crazy dance parties in my car! And NEVER wear my seat belt while driving. I get carsick, when anyone else drives. I also get paranoid. If I could, I'd wear 10 seat belts...when anyone else is driving.

When it comes to telling people no, I don't know how to do it. And get suckered into so much. That my calendar is always overflowing. With more things, than you can comfortably do. In reality, most weekends I wish I could stay home in bed. And not feel guilty.

Oh, and your son better love the Growers' Market. I spend so much time loading, unloading, setting up, tearing down, and making things for the Market. By the time I unload our stuff at 6:35AM, I'm sweating like a 500 lb man! And I tell my Mom, the first man to do this willingly, I will marry. It's the part of the Market Life, that I HATE!

I will be doing this, and other fundraising, for the rest of my life. No doubt about that. I take our foundation seriously. Although, there are some days, when I just want to ignore it. But I know it's important. So much of my day, is consumed with LFB.

Did I mention, I'm kinda crazy? The whole, "Watch out for the quiet ones..." well you may not know that side of me. Nor does my family. But I am kinda, well nuts. Ask my friends. I've been known to dance on bails of hay, because they were there. Or walk on top of farm fences. Pretend I was married...because my friend needed me to. To literally "Seal a Deal," he was making for his business. The people he was doing business with, needed him to be married. I don't know all the details of that deal. But it was worth millions. And I needed to fly across the country, multiply times. Going to crazy dinners, wearing a 5 million dollar ring. Talk about nuts!

Girls' Nights with my friends...I'm just glad I'm the "photographer" of the group. And no one has that documented. Because I don't know what I'd say. Vegas for us...was definitely about work. But we took the whole "Work hard, play harder" to heart. There have been crazy nights of dancing, hilarious game nights, and just wild and crazy times...that we can't talk about.

Even if my guys friends...we've had plenty of Poker Nights. That I'd like to relive. But NEVER talk about. The Crazy Lady comes out to play! But it's all in good fun! So is the crazy table top dancing Mariachi...that only comes out to play...when my friends are around. ;)

I can't explain why I own so many bustiers. Or crazy lingerie. How I once worked at Hooters. Or the crazy costumes I once wore, when we performed. And now, I won't wear shorts in public. Forget a bathing suit! Or anything that is remotely tight fitting. Or might show too much skin. I'm just not comfortable like that.

I'm quite short tempered. Hot headed. Short of patience. Strong willed. Get blinded by my goals. Have big dreams. And like alone time. I don't depend on others. Or ask for help. Too many people, give me anxiety. To be brutally honest, I think at times...I could live a pretty happy life, not actually seeing people.

When I think about kids, it makes me all warm and fuzzy  inside. Unlike most women, I think it's a good thing, that your son has some littles. Or even teenagers. But I also want some babes of my own. I once wanted 12 kids. But these days, I'd be happy with 2. I have names picked out...but I won't tell you either!

My heart sings, when I see a man playing sports with his kiddos. I think it would be amazing to see your son, coaching his littles in some sort of team sport. Or dancing away, with his daughter. When I was a musician, that was the thing I enjoyed the most. Seeing a dad making a complete fool out of himself, to dance with his daughter. And to make her smile!

And music, definitely the center of my life. So I guess your son has to love that too! Like spending the evening in Old Town, listening to music. Or going to see Mariachis. Or concerts. Also, having our littles learn some sort of music.

Did I mention? I don't trust people. And want to be home, with my babes until they go to school. I want to be THAT parent, who volunteers. And makes Pinterest worthy snacks and treats. I want my kids, to have all the opportunities that I had. And to be able to follow their dreams.

I'm working on a lot of my issues. Turning to God. Giving him my struggles and worries. Praying on so many things. But I'm not perfect! Never have been. Never will be. I may have run into the ocean, in a MOH dress. After my friends' Disney wedding. Because my other friend proposed to me. At the time, drowning seemed like the best option...

I also find myself, pouring over orphaned baby pics. Thinking I might have to do this alone. And somewhere out there, is a babe that needs a momma. I also question myself daily. About the direction my life is taking. And if I'll ever go back to medicine. Because I'm not sure, my heart is in it anymore.

Even with all this, my heart is open. To all things that are possible. It might be your son. And it might not. I'm one woman. And there are quite a few of your sons. I pray hard every single day. And know, somewhere out there...my husband is doing life. That one day, we'll find each other. And his current adventures...he'll share them with me. As part of his history.

And I pray to God, that he makes me a better woman. Teaches me, the things I need to learn. Shows me, how to live a better life. And loves me, despite my faults. It's the only way really. To be together, making each other better people.

Who knows what the future holds for me. But don't think for one minute, that I'm perfect. Or that your son's life will automatically change...because I'm in it. As much life as we've lived together...you've seen a lot! But it's probably only been 10% of what makes me tick. So let's pray together. And see what happens.

XOXO,
Desiree

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