Feels Like Fall

The weather is finally cooling down. Finally!! And staying cool. We had a few "Fall weather teasers" in September. Then the temps went back up. And I wanted to cry. But now, it's pretty official. Fall is here. And here to stay!!

That means sweaters, scarves, boots, and maybe a jacket. :) It also means long walks with my hubby. On crunchy leaves. That have turned beautiful colors. Crisp mornings. Started with warm cups of coffee. And tons of pumpkins. Don't you just love Fall? I do!!

I started decorating our home. Over the weekend. With some adorable bits and pieces. That I found at Target and the Dollar Tree. Love!! And now, I'm just looking for some "fashion inspiration." I'm thinking tons of layers. And warm, luscious colors!!

I found this little treat on Pinterest. I know!! But it's my "go-to" for everything!! Back to this outfit. Please tell me you love it. Because I do!! I've got leggings and a similar scarf. I happened to see some similar legwarmers, and boots at Payless recently. Looks like I'm going to have to make a trip back there. ;) Oh, and I guess I need to go shopping. You know, for a sweater and clutch.

I have 2 of the 6 major pieces. I know, that's not a lot. But it's a start. And all these pieces can be mixed with stuff I already have. To make even more outfits. Between, I just adore this outfit. And well, it's my treat to myself. For Fall. :)

All in Good Time :)

By now, if you've been reading my blog, you know I'm a tad bit obsessed with this little place. :) Yes, I even do a little "pinning" at work. Don't tell anyone!! Sometimes I blog from work too. But it's OK. I'm supposed to be studying, when I'm not working. But I don't always have something to work on.

Back to the reason for this post. A while back, probably still during summer, I saw this picture. Then when I joined Pinterest, I went searching for it again. There was just something about it, that made me happy.

I wanted some bracelets just like this. Of course, the pin lead to nowhere. :( But I kept my eyes open. Before the "back to school" madness hit our local Target, I went for some essentials. Cleaning supplies, TP, a little chocolate, and some shampoo. But if you're anything like me, you ALWAYS look around. :) Which I did.

Low and behold, right there in their jewelry section, were these bracelets. $15 a piece. Normally, I would have picked up 1 or 2. But we were saving for our wedding. And I knew, I would have a hefty tuition payment due soon.

Yes, I stood there for 20 minutes looking at them. Thinking about this pin. Loving all the colors. But I walked away. Rewarding myself with some Target popcorn instead. That is heaven in a bag!!

Fast forward a few weeks. Actually it was more like 2 months. :) I was back at Target. Looking for a black cardigan. And a new scarf. I ended up not finding either. :( I know. Makes me sad too!! But I was just looking around. You know the back areas of the different departments. Love how Target tries to hide their clearance stuff!!

They had 6 basket full of jewelry!! All kinds. Earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches. Everything was a disaster!! It looked like they had just put these baskets out. But everything was so mixed up. And tangled.

There were also a ton and a half of boxes. With different types of things inside. Some were 3 pairs of earrings. Others had necklaces. Nothing that really "spoke" to me. Not even with some of the price tags, just being $3-5. That is, until I found those long, skinny boxes. With these bracelets. The ones I've been wanting. With a price of $7.50!!

This was yesterday. I had met a friend for lunch. Since our class was cancelled. Then we made a quick trip to Target. I picked up 3. Then I went to checkout. The bracelets rang up for $3.25 each!! This was so exciting. See in good time, you get a good deal. I got 3 bracelets, for less than the original price of 1!! And yes, I'm wearing them today. :)

Tastes Like Fall :)

I've said this a million times, I'm not a cook. Not a good one anyways. I try. And try hard. But I think this is going to be a long process. But I'm trying. And if you've noticed lately, in my "Favorite Blog List," I've added a ton of cooking blogs. I need some help. And a little inspiration.

While searching through Cooking Classy, I noticed this simple little dip. And it sounded delish!! Did I mention, easy peasy. Yes, it's something that I could definitely handle. :) Now just look at how yummy this picture is!!

I've also mentioned a few hundred times, that we meet our "Mariachi Family," every Tuesday and Thursday. There are only a handful of us, that live here. In the "big city." Everyone else, lives about 45 minutes away. And our church, is actually about an hour from our home. But it's a nice little deal, that we have going on. Church, great friends, and a yummy dinner. :)

Mems always, and I mean ALWAYS, cooks dinner for us. And it's always so yummy! We leave with bellies full. And hearts overflowing. :) And while Mems does all the cooking, all the time, others bring treats too. Chiquitita is well known for her cupcakes. They are little bites of Heaven!! Oh my!!

I've decided to try and contribute something this week. I'm going to make a double batch of this pumpkin pie dip. For tomorrow. I might even make some on Wednesday. We're having a family dinner at my abuelitos' house. Yay, this is the first time, that I feel really confident about something I've made. Even if it's a simple recipe.

Incredibly Sweet!!

This shouldn't be too surprising. I was lost in the world of Pinterest tonight. It's Friday night. And as "normal" for me, Ignacio is working. I can tell that the weather is changing. Not by the temps, but the fact that Ignacio's schedule is changing. It's slowing just a bit.

For example, tonight, we got to have dinner together. That doesn't happen often. Not on a Friday night. Does it mean he'll be home on Friday nights? No. It just means, I get to share some time with my hubby. :)

Like any typical Friday night for me, I refuse to even look at any school related stuff!! I'm not even sorry about it. Because my brain is fried from the past week. College does that to you. Friday nights to me, mean pjs, movies, a little junk food, and hours on Pinterest. I know!! I have a problem. :)

While searching for some recipes, don't be too shocked! I'm trying to cook here. :) I came across cbroc. And the beautiful Amber. I searched through her pins. All of which, I adore!! But when I saw this sweet pin, my heart just melted!!

Amber is absolutely glowing!! And adorable. From her Pinterest page, I found her food blog. And personal blog. Turns our, Amber is expecting twins. This December. Oh, that just melts my heart!! And this chalkboard idea, has me all excited. And I don't even know why.

No, I'm not pregnant. It's not even on the brain, at this point. Ignacio and I, are enjoying this "honeymoon" stage that we're in. Quite a bit!! ;) But this does make me think of babies. Not right now. But in our future. And the lovely ways, that we can document that time of our life.

Oh, and I might just have printed off some of Amber's yummy recipes. I'm telling you, Pinterest is such a great place!! You can learn so much there. And well, fill up your time. While you wait for your hubby, to get home from work. :)

To My Hubby.....

Nacio,

Today, I become your wife. Nothing could make me happier. Nothing!! Just to know, that we have the rest of our lives together, makes today even more incredible!!

It's hard to remember a time, before I knew you. Extremely hard. Because I feel like my entire life, started after we met. I never realized that one person, could make you feel so wonderful. That one single person, could make me a better person. But Ignacio, you are that person to me.

I think of today, as our beginning. The beginning of our lives together. The first step, to not just building our lives together. But of building our family. I often find myself dreaming of our future. Of a home, so cozy and welcoming. Spending evenings enjoying dinner together. And long talks, that bring us to morning. Falling asleep in your arms. I dream of the babies we'll have. And one day, the grandbabies, that will climb in our laps. And ask us about our love story.

Today, we start writing our love story. Our love can only grow from here. I look forward to everything about today. Of seeing you, at the end of the aisle. Pledging my love to you, in front of God, our family, and friends. I can't wait to dance with my husband. And feed each other cake. :)



I know at times, I wondered if we could pull this off. The 2 week whirlwind, to our wedding. But you never wavered. You ensured me, that we'd make it. Not just make it, but be amazing!! That our wedding would be special.

None of those things, that I thought were important, are. You and me, are what's important today. Our love. Pledging that to each other. Sharing this special day with our friends and family. I know that. It's all I can think about. Just how lucky I am, to have met you. To know that you love me. And that we're starting our lives together, on this day.

September 16, 2012 will always make my heart flutter!! It's the day, that you went from my best friend, boyfriend, soul mate, and fiance.....to my hubby, life pattern, lover for life, and future father of my babies. :)

I've never been so happy in my life!! So confident in a decision. Then I am today. Pledging my love and life, to you and God. Ignacio you've had my heart and soul for years. Today, we make it official. But in my heart, I've loved you since day 1. I can't wait wait to spend the rest of my life, with you!!

XOXO.....Your Wifey

One More Day.....

One more day. Just one more day!! I'm so super excited. I can barely contain myself. :) Tonight the mariachi is playing a HUGE concert. I'm so excited about that. My abuelito can't wait to hear and see the group. For almost 2 weeks, it's all he could talk about. Seeing Ignacio on stage. It just makes my heart smile.

Today is also Miss Mariella's birthday!! Yay!! She's 4 years old. We're all going to a fun breakfast for her. It must be so odd to celebrate your birthday, in the middle of this conference. But she's loving all of it!! And she gets to dance her little heart out tonight.

I don't know what I'm most excited for. The concert tonight. Where we get to see all our friends play and sing. And their little ones dancing. The fact that my abuelito is so happy about this week. The concert. The wedding. This trip. Or our wedding. I'm just overflowing with emotions right now.

That might be, why I cried just minutes ago. I was doing a quick search on Pinterest. While Ignacio is showering. And I came across this picture.....

There is a lot that we're not having at our wedding. But this picture, I want one just like it!! It's so sweet. And perfect. Oh, I just can't wait!! My last 24 hours as a single, are going to be fun. But honestly, I can't wait to be married to my best friend.

Making Our Way.....

We started one our adventures. Headed to Las Vegas. It's supposed to take some 12 hours. We're driving. But we put in a 2 hour cushion. To make any needed stops. We are traveling with my grandparents, and nieces and nephews. And somehow, we're supposed to all meet up at 6pm. For dinner.

Most of Ignacio's family left yesterday. And spent the last night in Las Vegas. But we had a few things left to get done. We decided to drive. For 2 reasons. 1 it's cheaper. Way cheaper. Two, we're traveling with my abuelitos, and nieces and nephews. My very pregnant sister, would also like to say, she prefers driving. :)

We left early. Cars packed. Full!! Of people, and wedding goods. All I can think about, is Ignacio. How he's doing? If he's working too hard. If he's really OK after those floods. You know, it would flood in Las Vegas. Days before our wedding. :)

And I can't help, but think about my abuelito. How is he really doing?? Should we really be making him, travel all this way. With such little time, should we have just waited. I can't help, but to have these things on my mind. No matter how hard, I try not to think about them.

In the last few days, I've tried to remain calm. To remember the reason for all of this. Because I love Ignacio. And I love my abuelito. And I want both of them, to share in this big day. I want to marry my best friend. And I want my abuelito to "give me away."

To keep me a bit more "occupied," I joined Twitter and Pinterest this week. I know!! You would have thought, like a year ago, I would have joined. But it took until this week. I also joined Facebook. But since there is a bit more personal information on there, if you want to "friend" me, leave me a comment. :)

I've also been really thinking about the things, I want from our wedding. The memories I want to make. And keep. Things that not only will be special now. But in the future. Most of these, being pictures. Really, we've given up so much already. Just trying to make this wedding happen. That I knew, I wanted a good photographer.

I just want to have pictures, that I can look back on. And remember this special day. And all of those people, that shared in our special day. It should be no surprise, that I turned to Pinterest. My oldest sister and I, just cried our eyes out. Over this picture.

We were thinking the same thing. At the same moment. My abuelito and me. We HAVE to get one just like this!! HAVE TO!! And I'm not joking about all the crying. It's a good thing, that my mom and abuelitos were napping. And my dad is concentrating on the road.

That's what we're doing today. Making our way. Please say a few extra prayers for us. That we all get there safely. And return safely on Monday. I'm going to go back to "pinning" some ideas. We've still got 5 1/2 hours on the road!!

So Ready!!

In the morning, actually in a few short hours, I leave for Las Vegas. Just days, before Ignacio and I get married. I'm not scared. Or nervous. Or even anxious. I'm ready!!

Since we realized we'd have to move our wedding date up, it's been go, go, go. And I knew, that I'd be in charge of so much. Because Ignacio had to work all this week. I'm sure, we could have asked for the week off. But in all reality, this week is really important. Not just for his career. But for our bank account.

I talked to my professors, Who were all so sweet. And understanding. I went to my classes Monday and Tuesday. Went to 2 classes today. And to take 2 exams today. I will have off, until next Wednesday. It's not all fun and games. I've been studying my brains out! Doing so much homework. All to keep up, with my classes.

Today, I finally got to see my dress. And the bridesmaids' dresses. They are gorgeous!! My sister picked up all the shoes. And I'm pretty positive, that we've got everything! Fingers crossed gente!! Because in a few hours, we are on our way to Las Vegas. You know, to meet up with Ignacio and all our amigos.

It's been go, go, go. But I haven't yet, felt overwhelmed. I owe a lot of that, to my amazing friends. Most of which, I met only after meeting Ignacio. That's one amazing part of him being in the mariachi. We are all like family. Depending on each other. Really, helping everyone out.

Yes, they've been in Las Vegas since Monday. I owe so much to this mujer!! Who not only booked the chapel, and the reception space.....but also made our decorations. And probably called in every favor she could!! Yes, Ignacio and I are so lucky.

Most of all, I have Ignacio to thank. He keeps my head on straight. Reminds me of what is important. That at the end of the day, we're doing this, because we're in love. And we want to share this special time, with our familia. That's the important stuff.

Yes, I'm ready to be married. Ready to start my life with Ignacio. Ready to be his Mrs. Ready to celebrate with our family and friends. Only today, did I realize our actual wedding date. September 16, 2012. To those of you who don't know, that's Mexico's Independence Day. Sorta just works out. :)

It's very different from April 27, 2013. But close to that other big Mexican holiday.....Cinco de Mayo. It all works out well. And like I said, it only matters that Ignacio and I are getting married. And sharing this time with our family and friends. At the end of the day, those are the things that really matter in life. Not the "perfect dress, cake, date, and hair." Yes, we've got our priorities. For us, it's all about the people. And real emotions.

One Last Chance

Today has been a very tough day. We found out that my dear abuelito, doesn't have much longer on this earth. I feel like my entire world has been rocked.

You see, my biological dad, up and left when my sisters and I, were little. Real little. He hasn't been around for over 25 years. Not even his own family hears from him. We're close to his side of the family. But it's just an unfortunate situation.

Since my dad wasn't in the picture, my abuellito (grandpa) has been our rock. He was our "father figure" growing up. My mom worked hard, and long hours. She had to support 4 of us!! On her own. That meant, lots of time with our abuelitos.

Maybe because I'm the youngest. Or the more sentimental and emotional one, I grew really close to my abuelitos. I've stayed really close to them. And although God sent us an amazing dad, years later. In the form of my stepdad. Let's all be real here, he's our dad. And we love him just like he was our biological dad. Because he's ours. And he loves us in the same unconditional way.

But that bond with my abuelitos will never go away. They're my rocks. Where I pull my strength from. Where I learned to love and trust. My abuelitos taught me so much. Just by example. They are the most amazing people, I will ever know.

Last year, my abuelito was diagnosed with cancer. He's fought a tough fight. And was in remission for just over 7 months. I'd hoped that he'd walk me down the aisle. Give me away. Be a big part of our wedding day. Instead, today he was given about 6 weeks to live.

I'm crushed! To say the least, it's been a very emotional day. I went with my mom and abuelitos, to my abuelito's doctor appointment. It was supposed to be a routine checkup for him. To check his status. Instead, we left crushed. Heartbroken. And a tad bit deflated.

I've cried more than I ever have. My heart just plain aches. I'm worried about what tomorrow will bring. How will we get through all of this. How will I ever say goodbye? How will that be possible?

And then, that little detail creeped into my mind. April 27, 2013. Almost 8 months away. I just knew that I couldn't wait that long. And after talking with Ignacio tonight, we've decided to move that date up. Way up! As in September 16, 2012. Because I just couldn't bare, my abuelito not being at my wedding.

I know, it sounds a little crazy. Beyond the budget breakdown, and saving money.....we haven't done much in the terms of wedding planning. I'd been collecting little things, here and there. But we were focusing on planning this Fall. I don't have a dress. I haven't even asked my bridesmaids, to be my bridesmaids.

But I have faith in God. That he will allow our family, this last celebration. Together. It's not going to be huge. Or fancy. I'm 100% certain, that all those little things I wanted to order, customize, or create.....won't get done. But we will be married. With our loved ones there.

So why September 16, 2012? For one, it's close. For two, Ignacio and the mariachi will be in Las Vegas. Teaching forming. From September 10th-17th, they are scheduled to be there. And well three, isn't Las Vegas known for their quick weddings?

It's going to be fast. It's going to be different from what we had envisioned. But we'll be married. With our loved ones surrounding us. The details will somehow work out. I believe that God will give us that much. Being that he's taking my rock from me. I'm so lucky to have Ignacio. How he understands the importance of familia. And I'm lucky and blessed, to still be able to include mi abuelito.

Back to Normal :)

Since June, our little routine has been "off." Mems and Cari headed to Mexico. For the entire summer!! Our usual "dinner and church" routine had to change. You know, since Mems was going to be gone all summer. Jelly and Selena stepped up. Offering their homes.

And when they left on their summer trip, Amelia and I offered up our homes. We live an hour away from everyone else. Linda and Gabi did too! Both are expecting baby girls. And Maria and Dawn offered too! We were just trying to keep our little routine going. :)

Now let me tell you, I'm no cook! So when we had company, I made simple meals. Or bought some food. :) Thank you KFC!! You do make chicken right. It was rough. But we tried to make it just as fun. Grilling out a few nights. But it was different from our "normal."

Oh, and our dear Chiquitita has been sick. Since June!! So she went up north. We missed her so much too! Can you tell, we just weren't in our element. We felt like we were missing an arm or something. It just showed me and Ignacio, how close we've become to all of our friends. :)

At the beginning of the month, most of our friends came home. From their exploration of the state. Mems and Cari came back on Monday. Just in time for Cari to start school. And on Tuesday, this mujer came back.

It didn't mean that Tuesday was back to normal. But it was getting there. We went to church. Then ran to the soccer fields, to see this little guy and this one, play soccer. First game of their season. It was a lot of fun!! Not only did we cheer on the boys, we also enjoyed some yummy food. Cooked for us, by Mems.

Last night was back to normal. :) We went to church. Met at Mems' house for dinner. And spent hours catching up. Laughing. Looking at pictures. Just enjoying life. And let me tell you, all summer, I've been looking forward to this night.

This little quote, I found it on Pinterest. It made me think, of all our wonderful friends. How they've showed Ignacio and I, a different way of life. How to be better people. And enjoy the little things in life. If it's true, that we become like the 5 people, we spend the most time with.....I'm glad that we spend so much time with our friends. I wouldn't mind being just like them!!

Dancing Away My Troubles :)

Is there a song that you just love? One that instantly puts you into a good mood. I have one!! That song for me, is Little Big Town's Pontoon.

The first time I heard it, I was dancing away. In my car!! Yes, I know. But I will not apologize. It's a good song. Totally reminds me of summertime. And good times!!



The last few days, have had me a bit stressed out. I've eaten so many carbs. You'd think I was an athlete or something. No lie!! Sweets, they don't have a chance around me!! Is anyone else like that? You eat your stress away.

Then this morning, I got in my car. To make the commute across town. My favorite song came on. Suddenly, I was dancing around. Forgetting about all my worries. It hit me like a ton of bricks. "Girl, put the food down. Turn the radio up. And dance out some of that stress!" I didn't even mind that I was in traffic for 45 minutes. :)

If you excuse me, I'm going to turn up my radio. Maybe tackle my closet. Definitely dance around the house. I NEED to enjoy my last few days of summer!!

I NEED a Summer Hairstyle!!

It's like a billion degrees here. Ok, maybe not that hot. But we've been well into the triple digits for weeks!! And boy, I'm sick of it!! People I know that we live in the desert. But even I get sick of these hot temps!!

I've been doing a ton of work on our home lately. And trying to help my sisters out with their ninitos. That means, lots of running around. And well, it's hot! I've got long hair. With these temps, it's the worst combo ever!!

My hair usually starts out down. With a little curl at the ends. By 10am, it's up in a clip. By noon, it's in some sort of knot or bun. On top of my head. And I'm still sweating. Ugh!! Not to mention, it's not the best looking 'do.

I needed some help. A lot of help really. My "go-to" beauty girl, is gone. What's a girl to do? Head to Pinterest of course!! I needed something stylish, simple enough for me to do, and something that is heat friendly.

My hair is about this long. Except it's dark. As in black. My natural color. I don't think my hair will look as cute as this. But I'm willing to try it out.

Now the question is, do I have enough skills to pull this off? I can make a ponytail, I can braid, I can tease my hair. Never thought about putting them altogether. But I'm going to give it a try. What's the worst that can happen?

Making It Our Home :)

Ignacio and I have lived together, for less than a year. I move from my apartment, with a roommate, to a house that he rents. We're probably going to stay here, until after we're married. Maybe even another year. That's part of the reason, that we're saving all our extra pennies. We want to buy a home, within the next 1-2 years.

In the last few months, honestly I haven't done much to make this feel like home. It's not that I haven't wanted to. Or that I don't enjoy living here. It's just that we've been really busy. And saving all those pennies.

But since school is out for the summer, I'd started tackling a few things. Like unpacking those last 10 boxes. The ones, that have sat in our spare room/my office. You know, for 8+ months. :) They really started to bug me, while I was studying for finals. Lots of the things in  those boxes, were little trinkets. You know, the stuff you decorate your home with. The "fluff" stuff. :)

One box, had a bunch of pillows. Another had candles. I set those up in our living room. Ignacio told me, that he liked them. And why had we waited so long, to put them out. I don't know. I agree with him. Those little things, are making our house, feel like a home. Just makes things feel cozy, and inviting.

Now that all those boxes are unpacked, we pretty much have an empty room. My desk is in there. That's it!! And we have some wedding stuff in the closet. But nothing else. Not even curtains!! I know that I want this space to be inviting. A space that I can use to study. And do wedding planning. Or just sit and blog.

But I'm on a tight budget. I keep thinking to myself, a yummy cake, pretty pictures, and our honeymoon are much more important than a new desk and chair. But really, it's tough. I figured I'd take to my favorite place, for some inspiration.

I have an old desk. That I found at a yard sale. Years, and years ago. Like when I first started college. It's pretty beat up. And an ugly blond wood. But I like the shape. Do you see this picture? We, and by we I mean Ignacio, is going to paint my desk. That blue-ish color. And I'm painting the room, this coral color.

I have a white rug. It's from my old room. With white curtains, and 2 white lamps. I'm thinking of buying some green lamp shades. And maybe painting my chair green. Or that pink. I just haven't decided yet. Oh yeah, I just bought that beauty. From our neighbors, who were having a yard sale. It cost me, all of $1!!

Um, I might have actually spent a little money. You see, I went to Hobby Lobby. And had a bunch of coupons. Yes, I made each one of my sisters go through the line for me. And bought a few pink desk accessories. I think I might have spent $20. :)

This is what I'll be tackling over the next few days. My office. And searching for another chair. Something upholstered, and comfy. :) And I want to find a pink blanket. The color of this pillow. I'm actually really excited about this plan!!

That's the plan. For the next few months, to tackle each room in our home. So far, we've got our bedroom done. And the living room. Ignacio's office/studio is pretty well done too. It's been that way, since we started dating. His office, was the only room that was "done." Probably because he works out of there. :)

Hopefully, I'll continue to get inspiration. And keep moving forward with this. I also like to pick this woman's brain. She is so good at interior design. And saving pennies. You should see her stash of coupons!! With all this, our house, should be feeling like our home in no time!! 

Inspired to Cook

I'm sure by now, you know I don't know how to cook. Well, not well. And not many things. I'm sure Ignacio is sick of enchiladas. It's my one good, go-to dish. Yum! But having it 3 or 4 times a week, not the best.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are all handled. We go to church with our friends. And have dinner with them. :) Usually, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights Ignacio is on his own. He's working. And being a musician, has a really good "kick back." They get free food all the time! Yes, they go play for a wedding or party. Then they eat. Me? I have cereal. :)

Did you catch on there? Pretty much, 5 days a week I don't have to worry about dinner. But those other 2 days.....we eat enchiladas. I need to branch out. I need to learn how to cook something. It just hit me Saturday. Because my other "speciality" is spaghetti. I boil the noodles, and warm up a jar of sauce. If I'm feeling really fancy, I'll add in some hamburger meat to the sauce.

Um, Ignacio is not a big fan of my spaghetti. But he is a big fan of pasta. I need to step up my game. Because eventually, I'm going to have to be a good wife. And you know, cook. :) I headed over to Scarlett's blog. And I found this recipe. She must have been reading my mind!!

Any kind of pasta carbonara, is Ignacio's favorite!! One, I never thought I could make something like this. Two, I shocked myself. Three, it really was easy to make. Four, Ignacio loved it!! Bonus, that's not my picture. It's Scarlett's. Because I was so excited about my cooking success, finding a phone to take a picture, didn't even cross my mind!! :)

Why yes, I made this for dinner. Last night. Ignacio had a gig. Actually he had a bunch of gigs. But between them, I convinced him to come home. We had this, and a salad. From a bag. :) But it was delicious!! Who knows, I might just start making dinner more often.

School.....and Life

Lately, I've been struggling with school. Not the actual work or exams. But being motivated to just go. Spring break really didn't help. It just got me in a lazy mood. That I can't shake. Believe me, I've been trying!!

Pretty much, work keeps me motivated. It's the stuff that I enjoy. I almost feel like I'm a high school senior again. With "senior-itis." Did you have that too? When you just couldn't get it together. The end was too close. And it seemed like it would never come. That's what I'm feeling right now.....

Ignacio is really helping me out. With all the pep talks. Making sure, that I keep my goals in mind. Every morning, he gets my coffee ready. And pretty much, has to throw me out of bed. You know, since the "snooze button" and me have become BFFs!! I know!!

I need to just get it together already. Really, the semester is all downhill from here. We've got weeks left. And I know, I can get through it. I just need to get my head on straight. Ugh!! Why is this so hard??

I've been doing a lot of praying. The father from our church, gave me a CD. With bible lessons on it. And some meditation and prayers. Every morning, on my way to school.....I listen to it. Hoping that it will heal my soul a bit. Get me motivated, to do the things that will allow me to grow. Not just as a person. But to grow in God.

I'm really grateful right now, to Ignacio. I know that without him, I would be dropping the ball. He's just a good cheerleader. In fact, this morning I really didn't want to go to school. I was almost like a 5 year old. Throwing a bit of a tantrum. I know that it's not right. But it happened. Ignacio just calmly made my coffee, picked up my purse and bag, and headed to the car.

He then sent me a text. Telling me I had 5 minutes. Yes, he drove me to school. Because I was being such a crabby apple!! I felt bad later in the day. When I realized how childish I was being. I sent him back a text. To apologize. When he came to pick me up, he had a yummy dinner with him. And we headed to the park. For a picnic. And a bit of a ramble from me. Tears included.

Ignacio didn't run away, roll his eyes, or think I was dumb. He just listened to me. And all this stuff, that I have in my head. Things that I don't like to talk about. But know, need to be talked about. He just sat there and listened. Thank God!!

And when I fell apart crying, and talking about failures, Ignacio just held me. And reminded me of my accomplishments. And how God has placed a challenge for me. But also sent me Ignacio. To help me through it.

Today, reminded me of 3 things:

1. I can get through tough things. I just need to stay focused.
2. Ignacio is the perfect man for me. He knows just what to say and do, at the right moment. He doesn't judge me. He's my best friend, before anything else. And he really loves me. I mean REALLY LOVES me!!
3. God loves me too!! He challenges me at times. But he LOVES ME!!

I'm not giving up. I don't have it in me, to do so. As hard as it is, to push forward. It's even harder to give up. That much I know. I need to focus on these important things. I need to relax a bit. Give myself the time, to just be. And when it's time to work and study, I just need to do it. I keep reminding myself, only 14 months left. GIRL YOU CAN DO IT!!

Spring Brights!!

I have to say this much, I've got some fashionable friends. They are always inspiring me. I'm telling you, our little "Mariachi Family," is one happy place to be!! You've got Jelly, who LOVES color. All kinds of color!! Jose and Jelly's home, is so fun. And for months and months, I've been drooling all over her colored denim. Between, I want some colored denim. All because of this fabulous lady!!

Then there's Chiquitita. She's always fashionable!! Always!! She works in a local hospital, and always dresses up for work. There are only about 2 times, that I can remember, when she didn't wear high heels. And fun ones. Colorful. These ladies, truly inspire me, to put a little color in my closet. :)

It doesn't hurt, that I spend a few hours a week, drooling all over Pinterest. Really, ladies how are you so fabulous? Where do you learn to be so stylish? For example, look at this picture!!

What a simple outfit. Really, it is. Just look at this casual look. A white t-shirt, some awesome colored denim, bright shoes, a fun purse, and silly glasses. I mean really. I'm in love!! You could do this with other colors as well. But I'm really loving these bright colors. Perfect for spring and summer!!

I'm just waiting for Old Navy to put their colored denim on sale again. I want a fun, and bright color. And shoes. Well, I took a little stroll downtown. Last week. Found some incredible bright heels. The pieces are coming together. It just has a big smile, plastered to my face.

What are some of your fashion inspirations? Favorite fashion trends? Beyond bright colors, and colored denim.....I'm also a fan of the maxi dress. And espadrille sandals. These fun pieces, are about the only reasons, that I really like summer. Because around here, the minute you walk outside, you are melting!!

Be Patient and Pray

Do you ever wake up, and just thank God for the people he sends into your life? Recently, I've been doing this a lot. I mean a lot!! I don't think I've mentioned this before. You know that Ignacio is a professional musician. He's got his teaching degree, for music. But he prefers to perform. He's a professional mariachi. And teaches private lessons during the week.

Years ago, he was in another really good mariachi. From what I hear. I didn't know him at the time. Essentially, the musicians were all so good, that they were asked to join the "touring groups." As in the elite professional mariachis. That meant their local group broke up.

3/4 of the guys went to the professional touring groups. The other 1/4 wanted to stay right here. As I hear it, Ignacio had only played in the group for 6-8 months. He was also in college. And decided to stay home. But he kept in touch with these other musicians.

A handful of those guys, joined 1 local group. It's the best group here. They weren't looking for anymore violin players. That's what Ignacio plays. Just a few months before that, they had hired 4 violin players. Ignacio, and 1 other guy, went to a different group.

A lot happened since then. A big flood, here in town. That split that group, between 2 cities. The jefe of the group (boss) had a family emergency. That took him out of state, for a few years. Things like that. But the group, stayed together. Rallied around each other. And they are so good!! They even have one woman in the group. Who rocks the socks off of people. She is that good!!

This woman, also happens to be a good friend. And when the mariachi was looking for another violin player, she remembered Ignacio. It didn't hurt, that they ran into each other one day. You see, her "day job" is working at a hospital. And during the Fall, Ignacio had to go to the ER one day. We ran into Chiquitita. I'd never met her. But she was incredibly sweet!! Made sure that we got the best care.

About a week later, Ignacio had a follow up appointment, and we decided to have lunch at the hospital after. Mostly for the sake of time. And we were hungry!! We ran into Chiquitita again. And she started to tell us about this opening in the group. Ignacio and her set up a time, that he could go audition.

Next thing I knew, Ignacio had the job!! I know, a lot of it is because of our friend. She put in a good word for Ignacio. It's been a complete blessing!! In more ways, than I can even begin to tell you. The money is a lot better!! Ignacio has so much more work now. And steady work. He's in the best group, in this area. There's a lot of traveling. Oh, and this flipping AMAZING group of friends!!

Sorry about that long run on. But it helps you to better understand the following things. We have a new "family." That embraces us. The reality of our situation is, that weeks after Ignacio got this new job, we moved in together. Never brought it up to anyone. That I was moving. But on "moving day" all these wonderful people were there. To help us. And they brought lots of food!! And some gifts. :)

From the beginning, they invited us into their "circle." To join them twice a week for church and dinner. Every Tuesday and Thursday night, we meet. It's just over an hours drive for us. But it's so worth it!! The friendships that have bloomed, in such a short amount of time, are so strong. Intimate. And much needed!!

Now with Lent, we'll meet more often. Our church has special masses, almost every day. And I'm looking forward to it. The ladies also invite me to a bible study. For women. And it was such a nice retreat. I learned so much about myself. About what I want in life. And I've gotten so much closer with God!!

These ladies, have opened their hearts to me. Especially, this lady. Who inspired me, to start a blog. This man, opens his home to us, all the time. He feeds us all, and never asks for anything in return. This "family" was unexpected. But were so happy for them!!

When my week is not going as planned, I can turn to any one of these people. For an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on, some advise, and lots of prayer. It means so much to me. I've never had a lot of friends. I've had a few, close friends. But this new situation, makes me so happy. And thankful. That God would bless Ignacio and I, with such sweet and pure souls.

I've learned so much about life, in just a few short months. I've learned to appreciate more. To pray, and depend on God, much more than I was doing. That there are incredible people out there. I've been inspired to be a better person. To do more for others. To be more, like this lady. Who gives with all her heart. Not ever thinking, of what she will get in return. I'm glad that God sent us, these friends. Who with all honesty, are our new family!!

Beautiful!!

I took to Pinterest for a little inspiration again. :) I've been looking for outdoor ideas. I haven't really "nailed" what I want. But I've been searching.

I've also been talking to 2 of my friends. Louisa and Manders. About wedding ideas. Louisa is getting married in June. And Manders is doing all the hair, makeup, and nails.....for both our weddings. :)

I think with my dress, the outdoor ceremony, and a simple, floor length veil.....that it would be best to wear my hair up. I started searching out "up dos." Most looked like "prom hairstyles." Nothing that I was envisioning. Then I talked to Manders again.

She showed me the picture that Louisa found. It's amazing!! Too bad, I can't find it now. :( It's what I was thinking of. Loose, elegant, soft. Again, I searched. With no luck! A lot of the hairstyles that I liked, were modeled on blonds. Which I'm not!! And I think, what made them look so good, was the highlights and lowlights. My hair is dark. Super dark.

I immediately knew, I needed something different. More simple. Something that highlighted my natural hair. More than anything, I didn't want to look so different, that I didn't recognize myself. Do you know what I'm talking about? Have you seen those brides. The ones that you have to do a double take with. To make sure, that it's the same person. Ya, I don't want that!!

Manders emailed me this picture early last week. And I LOVE it!! I actually had seen it a while back, on Pinterest. When I went back to look, I just knew, this was going to be it. We're trying it out later this week. To be honest, we don't have to. I'm already sold!

I think this will be a nice hairstyle. Something that my veil can work well with. But after the ceremony, and I take my veil off, will still look nice. And polished. I'm glad that these pieces are falling into the puzzle nicely. And so early!! This wedding planning business, isn't so bad after all. :)

A Gift for My Love.....

Ignacio and I were trying to decide on what to do for Valentine's Day. Being that we're saving money for our wedding. And we really didn't want to spend money, that well, we could spend on our wedding.

We decided on a low-key Valentine's Day this year. Which is pretty ironic. The last few years, we've made big plans. Gone out. Not on the actual day, but close to Valentine's day. Mostly because Ignacio usually has a day full of gigs. That's part of being in love with a musician. :)

But this year, we're going to order in some good food. Rent a few of our favorite movies. And spend a quiet night at home. Just me and him. Celebrating our love!! ;) Gift wise, well we were thinking something small. Not too much money. Just a small gift.

Immediately, I had no clue what to buy. Ignacio is not a complicated man. Heck, he'd be thrilled with an ice cream cake. Or a new CD. But I wanted a more meaningful gift. I took to the internet. And searched.....

Pinterest had all sorts of fun ideas. Jars with sticks, with ideas of things to do for one another. Decks of cards, with reasons why I love Ignacio. Little gift basket ideas. Things that he'd enjoy. But nothing seemed intimate enough. You know, special and meaningful.

I kept searching. My searching also turned to engagement picture ideas. Things we want to try out. we're taking our engagement pictures, at the end of the month. Ignacio also joined me for a little while. We were looking at things that we enjoyed together. While searching, I suggested to Ignacio, that we should make something for each other. For Valentine's Day. He liked the idea.

Well, to my surprise, we found a picture that we really enjoyed. An idea that seemed intimate, timeless, and perfect!! Something to capture this exact moment in our lives. Then it hit me, we could do this for each other. For Valentine's Day. :)

What do you think? Ignacio liked the idea too! Immediately, we called our photographer. We hadn't even noticed that it was nearly 10pm!! But she loved the idea! And we made the appointment. You see, the picture above, is actually 2 pictures. Framed separately. But hung like this. :)

Ignacio went yesterday. While I was in class. And this evening, when Ignacio  went to work, I went to the photographers. I really can't wait to see our pictures!! We've been guaranteed, that they'd be ready on Valentine's Day. And now, I'm so excited!! This is going to be something that we'll have, and cherish for years and years. :)

Dress of My Dreams!!

My sisters convinced me, that I needed to search out a wedding dress. Since now. OK, it wasn't that hard to convince me. They told me that there were 2 sales going on. And well, we went. Spent an entire day, playing dress up!! Figuring out what worked, and what didn't.

I knew I wasn't going to buy anything. Not yet. Being that our wedding date, is more than a year away!! But I wanted to start looking at my options. Deciding what I liked. And what I didn't. Because really, I've never thought of a specific wedding dress.

There are a few things that I knew ahead of time. I wanted a somewhat traditional dress. With lace. But not a ballgown. I want to get married outside. So my dress needs to reflect that. Nothing too crazy. But something timeless, and elegant.

We looked around. I found a few things that I liked. But nothing that just screamed "that's my dress." I spent some serious time, going through bridal magazines. Tons of them actually!! But nothing was really standing out. There were things I liked from this dress, and things I liked from that dress. But not a single dress, that had them all.

My sister suggested that I search online. I took to some bridal websites. Saw things that I really enjoyed. I actually printed out a few dresses, and emailed links to a local shop. Then, while searching for outdoor wedding ideas on Pinterest, I found her!!

Isn't she gorgeous?? I like that this dress isn't completely strapless. Being that we're getting married by a priest. I feel strongly, that I need to be covered up, in a religious ceremony. The lace is just amazing!! And the silhouette is just perfect!!

I would like a deep red flower instead. I've searched around, looking for the source. With no luck!! But the lady at our local bridal shop, told me she'd do some searching. And if she couldn't find it, we could actually have it made. And ahead of time. So I can see it, and really fall in love. You know, with plenty of time before our wedding. :)

It's crazy how life works out. But it's nice. I'm also thinking about wearing red shoes. I think that would be nice. I'm so glad that my sisters took me shopping. :) And I've been assured, that this dress, should be in my budget. Who knows, I might even start ordering our wedding favors too!!