THE DANCE OF A LIFETIME

There are less than two days remaining before another great dream between Allie and I will come true. The road that has brought us here has been long and filled with memories I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. Each and every day brings something new. And on most days, we somehow find a way to hopelessly fall in love all over again. There are many times I can say that has happened in the near year and a half since we confessed our love to each other. But in the past few months, no moment can hold more truth to our passion and everlasting love for one another than the surprise we received two months ago, as we romantically fell in love once more in the greatest of ways and blessings.

It was during the last weekend of April. It was planned earlier that week that we and a bunch of our closest friends would have good night out filled with dancing, drinking, and being the great party group we are, as it has been awhile with all the work most of us were putting in because of the rise in sales we, as a company, we’re having, and the absolute absence of Allie’s parents who decided to take one last and extended vacation prior to the wedding. We had thought about going to San Francisco and hitting the club scene there. But instead, we brought San Francisco’s club scene to us in the form of a DJ, namely my cousin, Carlos, who Allie and I decided would DJ the later part of our wedding reception. So I made the call to Gold Country Casino’s Director of Entertainment asking him the favor to bump their usual and repetitive DJ for one night of the weekend and to give the paying gig to my cousin. He obliged to my favor and my cousin was all for it, especially since I told him I’d pay for his gas expenses to make the drive up here and put him up for the night. Not only would it be our chance to have a great night out dancing away to the best my cousin can offer, but it also meant it would be our first chance to hear what my cousin has done and put together with the music samples we gave him that we want played at our wedding reception. So later that week on a Friday Night, after I helped my cousin set-up his equipment and made adjustments to the casino’s stationary equipment and lighting earlier that day, Allie, myself, Christy, Heather, Jenn, Kelly, Jamie, and the added mix of my sister, Jona, and her boyfriend, Spencer, got ourselves ready for a full night of fun.

We headed to the casino that night when it was finally dark. And instead of taking two separate vehicles, we opted on 3, because Allie wanted to drive for the last time the new Jaguar XKR Convertible we bought a week before for her mom’s upcoming birthday before fully garaging it. That left Spencer and Jona driving our Z4 and the girls taking dad’s H2. When we got there, after the vehicles were valet parked, we headed up to the second floor for a light and casual dinner at their café. Allie’s shrimp scampi platter looked and tasted questionable, but nothing more was really thought about it since the restaurant allowed her to re-order another item free of charge.

About an hour later and 2 rounds of drinks for everyone but Spencer and Jona, who only had swigs of everyone’s drinks, we headed down to the club. Amazingly, posted at the door was a new security guard who wanted to card all of us. I suppose it was fair enough for that to happen with the bit of roaming Spencer and Jona did with us with the casino’s new 21 and over only policy throughout the casino floors. But still, it sucked, because that meant Jamie, Jona and Spencer would be booted. And while that was going on with all of us, we were hearing Carlos mixing Baby Bash’s “Cyclone” Thankfully, and to our surprise, the casino’s manager, and a good friend to the family followed us downstairs and seeing us in the rather rude and unnecessary predicament, he gave us the pass and literally warned the rookie. And after a few minutes talking with Ed White, we finally got to go in the club.

The first thing we noticed when we were fully in and past the corridor was all the people. I believe it was Kelly who remarked about that. On any typical weekend, the peak numbers are around 40, 50 at best, and less than half of them actually hit the dance floor, while the others simply go there to drink, be social, and pick up on potential one night stands. From what I recall, there were about 30 people getting it on the dance floor, 20 around the bar, 10 doing nothing, and 10 sitting around probably thinking this is the greatest time of their lives (lol). And in the mix of it all was my cousin dropping the beats. While Jona, Spencer, Jenn and Kelly got into the crowd and started dancing, the rest of the girls got us a table and ordered drinks while Allie and I went up to my cousin to let him know we were there and for small talk. And it was amusing and interesting to know that before we had gotten there, he got several phone numbers from girls and some good money in tips for being a better DJ, which is something I’ve never seen done with the casino’s regular DJ. So it was working out better than what was expected, particularly with all the people that were there and kept coming in., and he told us he’d get into our mix later that night. And essentially, for the whole time we were there we all danced the night away, kept a good perk so neither of us would be too buzzed to drive back to mom and dad’s house, and had a blast like we knew we would. My cousin truly went above and beyond meeting our expectations for the music he will be spinning at our wedding reception. I don’t know how he did it, but he made it all work, mixing track after track of the songs we wanted including the Japanese and Italian songs Allie and I selectively wanted to be played, and those there who danced with us to our music mix are a good testament to the success of the evening. And if that night was a small sample to what we could look forward to at our wedding reception, I can only imagine how much of a party it will be two days time.

Afterwards, back at mom and dad’s house, our home away from home, we all somewhat settled down for the night in the entertainment room upstairs. At least that was the case for the girls who did their girl things of doing each other’s hair and nails while talking about this and that, listening to music and drinking mixed drinks. On the other hand, Spencer and I got into play mode and went game after game in pool, darts, video games, and cards. I’ll admit he’s a fun guy to hang around with. And I don’t know if that’s because I’m always hanging around the girls, but still, he’s fun, youthful, and is the first guy to really make my sister as happy as she is now. I do hope those two make it through the test of time and end up having as good, if not the same, of a life Allie and I have. Some time later, Allie began to have stomach cramps and wanted to sleep, so we turned in for the night, as I’m sure everyone else did. There really was no greater thought put into Allie’s cramps than it being a side affect from the bites of bad shrimp she ate and all the dancing. Apparently we were all wrong, because awhile after going to sleep she woke me up telling me how the cramps were hurting her more. I wasn’t quite sure what to do about it, so I went and found Christy who would know what to do and be able to help. Unfortunately, she didn’t know, nor did Heather who walked in a few minutes later, and Allie was feeling worse by the minute. And because it was hypothesized that Allie was having a bad case of food poisoning or a bad reaction to the food in general, we found it best to get Allie to the emergency room as soon as possible.

Heather volunteered to come with us to the hospital and even drove us there in her car. All of us couldn’t help but worry, especially since Allie was saying this was a kind of cramp she’s never had before. When we arrived, mom and dad called my phone to know in detail what was going on, as Christy made the call to them about what was going on. And because a doctor has yet to see her, I simply speculated with them and told Allie’s parents I would keep them updated. Registering and getting into one of the rooms did not take long with no one else there seeking emergency help, and getting seen by a doctor did not take long as well. She came in asking general questions on how Allie was feelings, and asked for a sample. And about 20 minutes after the sample was taken, the result to Allie’s cramps was in. And to our absolute surprise, we found out Allie is pregnant. The happiness and love that filled that room upon hearing the news is still indescribable, but for Allie and me, we couldn’t stop ourselves from saying how much we love each other. And it truly felt like falling in love all over again.

The news of Allie being pregnant really came as a big surprise, especially with how well she kept up with her pills. With how we planned our future, we didn’t plan on starting a family until we returned from our honeymoon, which we expected to be several months long with all the traveling we wanted to do before finally coming back home and settling down. But it felt right, and Allie and I couldn’t have been happier with each other and the blessing. After getting done at the hospital, we woke everyone up and broke the news to them when we got to the house. Mom and dad were ecstatic when we called them, and mom’s first reaction was a deafening scream. They were very proud and happy for us, as were everyone else.

For Allie and me, our life together truly cannot get any better. We live a fulfilling life that most can only dream of. We have all we need and all we can ever ask for. Above all, we have each other and a love that is truly meant to be. I would have never guessed on that winter morning when Allie and I first met at the post office that we would ever come to this. But it has, and in just a few more moments of time and more memories, and a short walk away from the very spot where I proposed to Allie, it will, as I marry the most beautiful woman in the world, the mother of my child, the love of my life, and my dance of a lifetime. I love you, Allie, Forever and for Always.

Devotion

 

I want to hold you in the comfort of my arms
And tell you just how much I love you
I want to show you all the ways of my heart
To let you know and feel my words are true 

I want you to know the romantic side of me
And all there is to who I truly am
I want to kiss you tenderly
While embraced are our two hands 

I want to dance with you under bright moonlights
While listening to our favorite love songs
I want forever to be such nights
Just as I want our relationship to be strong

I want you to know you’re the only one in my life
And you complete me in every possible way
I want you to know I’ll always be by your side
And I will love you beyond my dying day

 

© 2007 Eric G. Draven

 
I would have figured that with such planning and attention put to detail, there would be no problem with the date Allie and I set for our wedding, but once again, there is.  This time, the problem was pointed about by Allie's father Friday night while we were at Feather Falls Casino for their seafood buffet.  Apparently, our chosen date might fall into the schedule of the annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Car Show.  The use of "might" provided us nothing conclusive, but it certainly was one of those 50/50 chance situations.  Needless to say, it was a disappointment even if it was not a certainty.  Without waiting for Monday to roll around to call in about the shows 2008 schedule, we went ahead and planned the date of our wedding once more and, at last, Allie and I couldn't have been any more content with our decision of July 5th, 2008 being the date for our wedding.

Our chosen date could not be any more perfect.  Putting aside Scott's birthday, which he told us to do anyways, the date was truly ideal for us.  We would still have that elegance and feel from a 2-day old New Moon.  And with the 4th of July being on a Friday, there would be no real worries about having so many involved with the wedding and guests putting up a bit of sacrifice for our big day.  But to really top it off, all would be treated on the 4th to the fireworks show in Monterey Bay, which to us, brings out more symbolism and meaning for the future ahead.  And for Allie and me, we really want to sear an everlasting memory to many with our wedding.

For the 4th this year, we spent a great deal of time at Feather Falls Casino with my uncle and aunt who came in the night before to visit for the holiday and to drop off my new computer.  They came rather unannounced, and it took my uncle, who lives in town, calling me to tell us they were in town visiting him after coming up to our house wanting to see us.  Luckily, we weren't out on the lake that night like the nights before, because of the inconvenience that would have caused.  Instead, we were at my in-laws, so it wasn't a problem to leave the scene for awhile to accommodate my uncle and aunt at our house. 

At Feather Falls Casino, we did some serious gambling.  My mom was with us and so was our dear friend Christy, and both play conservatively.  Allie's parents were with us and they play like Allie and I do, for the fun and entertainment of it and often till we empty our wallets and max out our daily ATM withdrawal limit on a few cards.  My uncle, I know he plays wisely most of the time and his main taste for gambling are at the poker tables, as I've played with him before in a few tournaments at Gold Country Casino on his previous visits.  He'll gamble at the machines though, which was what he did for the time we played.  My aunt, however, she can do some serious gambling, and it was her who set the tempo for our time there.  She was playing max bet on the dollar machines, and she was putting in hundreds one right after another.  And we all started to do the same by getting off the cheap but entertaining machines, like the penny machines that don't really pay but just make your money last longer, and started playing the dollar slots.  My aunt and uncle came out even because my aunt hit Red, White, and Blue 7s winning $1000, along with a few other good wins.  My mom lost $40, I think, but I gave her a hundred to gamble with so she didn’t lose any of her own money.  And for the rest of us, we lost quite a bit.  That sort of sucked, but overall, it was fun.

Even more fun, though, was went we went to the lake afterwards.  My mom didn't join us, sadly, because Allie and I think she would have a lot of fun, and my aunt and uncle went back to the Bay Area.  It was definitely hot on the 4th hitting 115, so being on the lake and swimming there was such a relief.  And as suspected, quite a few people joined us as the day progressed, but not as many like days before.  But still it gave us more of an excuse to ride the jet skis back and forth to the marina as we had to play transport whenever someone arrived instead of taking the houseboat back to the marina every time someone came.  The lake was well occupied with many boaters and skiers, and the dam was easily filling with many who came to see the fireworks show up close and personal.  For Oroville, the 4th of July is the city's biggest day for tourism, because we have the lake, the river, and the fireworks.  And the fireworks show was great.  And it was my best ever because I was enjoying it with the one I love.

As for our lovely friend, Jamie, she's now safe out of harm's way.  It went down on Saturday night without a hitch.  That jackass of an ex-boyfriend of hers had the courtesy of dropping her off at Gold Country Casino that night, which made it all the easier, especially for Jamie, who didn't have to walk that four miles from that trailer to the casino that night.  And like planned, we were at the Casino's Spirits Lounge waiting for her with a bunch of people.  After a requested drink by Jamie, the girls and I left leaving Scott and Jessica and a few co-workers behind making it me, Allie, Jamie, Heather, Jenn, Kelly, and Christy to go to Jamie's to get her stuff.  Our SUV was fine enough for the load, but it would go faster with more hands and help, and it did.  We ended up filling up Heather's Camry and then our MDX.  The intended goal became to take as much as possible, because it was really all hers, and legally, she had the right to do so, so that last minute decision was well supported.  And before finally leaving that trailer, Jamie left a note on the fridge about her decision to leave.  And that was that.

On the car ride to Chico to Heather, Jenn, and Kelly's apartment, Jamie rode with them, and half-way there, Kelly calls Allie's phone telling us about Jamie who was crying relentlessly about the whole thing.  Jenn was in the back seat with Jamie, comforting her like her own sister, and apparently Jenn was tearing up to.  We knew Jamie would eventually breakdown, but for her sake she needed to.  For the rest of the way to the apartment, we all felt what Jamie was going through.  We don't know what the girls said to Jamie during the car ride, and really it doesn't matter, but when we got to the apartment, Jamie ran up to Allie in tears and just gave her a heartfelt hug and kiss, and she did the same for me and with all the girls as her way of saying thanks for everything. 

From there we unloaded the vehicles, situating all her belongings in Heather's room.  Though Heather won't be leaving till later this month, Jamie was already welcomed to use it as her own.  And after a fix of a few of the girl's make-up, we went out again, this time going to the Crazy Horse down the street from Chico State as a way to celebrate Jamie's new take on life and independence day.

(We love you J-A-M-I-E)

January 19, 2007


Dearest Eric,

Ever since the night we had first gone out, I knew in my heart that I felt something for you.  What it was, I wasn't sure about, but I know that it felt right.  You didn't know this, but I never intended on being just another girl to you.  I wanted to be the girl for you.  I'm sure others before me have wanted the same.  Yet you never gave in to any of them.

Before we had met, my mother and I sometimes saw you out and about, often at the casino, with different girls each time or by yourself.  We speculated, but more so wondered what it was about you.  The way you carried yourself was so bold and mysterious yet attractive at the same time.  So for awhile, my mother and I would hang around the casino bar in hopes of catching some of these girls with the intention of talking to them to learn about you.  While it wasn't the direct approach, we got lucky and spoke to a couple.  What we had thought was nothing in comparison to what was spoken of you.  You actually helped these girls.  You saw in them what they needed.  You understood them.  You gave them that comfort.  And all the while, you did so without question and with sincerity.  From speaking with these girls, I knew then I had to meet you.  I knew then that I wanted to be with you. 

However, I also learned and realized more than I had expected.  It became clear to me why you never gave in.  Because of that, I grew jealous.  It made sense then as it does now why you never became serious with anyone.  That posed a challenge.  At the same time, it also made me afraid.  If what you've done to and for those girls was purely you at work, then I can only imagine what is there with you personally.

The day we met was purely coincidence, but I'm glad it happened that way.  I was so nervous to approach you, but when you turned around and we got to talking you made that feeling go away - for that time being, at least, because after we had exchanged numbers, that nervous feeling came back to me and I couldn't bring myself to call you. 

Yet again, when you called, you took that nervous feeling of mine away.  I can't explain what happened after that.  All I can tell you is that I panicked.  That is why I responded to you the way I did.  If it weren't for my mom stepping in on the conversation, I probably would have blown any further chance to be with you.  And though I reacted out of panic, I can't forgive myself for the harsh things I said, especially with the way I know you now.  It was wrong of me and for that, I am truly sorry.  You stayed true to yourself and what you were doing though.  After that first talk and the arrangements were made, I cried for awhile.  I was so mixed with emotions.  I gave you a wrong impression of me.  But what got to me was that I nearly lost you before I had a chance to have you. 

It certainly took a lot for me to call you back later that night.  When I did, your comfort came immediately, and for the time we talked, I got to know you a bit better.  You gave me a small sense of understanding about yourself that made you all the more attractive.  At the same time, you left me wondering about more, because I couldn't make sense about your personality and your profession.  There were just so many questions and little that I knew.  But what I did know was that I had to find out the truth about your ways and if there really is a greater side to you - a greater side that I wanted to be with.

The simple arrangement of picking you up couldn't have worked any better.  If there were to be some answers to my questions regarding your ways, they would definitely be found at your home.  When I arrived, I was instantly reminded of your incredible good looks and sex appeal as you came out to greet me.  Persistent, I pushed the issue of being given the tour of your home.  I felt that you were reluctant and nervous and that you saw through my intentions, but you opened your doors to me anyways.  Looking around, it surprised me to how little you had.  It got to the point where I was finding more questions than answers.  I did find a few answers though, thankfully.  And those answers were enough for me to become certain this greater side was real.

At dinner, you were such the gentleman.  I still can't believe our waitress hit on you.  It didn't matter though, because you were there with me and no one else.  However, as personal and as serious as you were towards me, I couldn't help but feel that you were holding back, and maybe, you were having just as much of a hard time as I was.  I certainly didn't want you to hold back with me, and I certainly didn't want to come to the conclusion that all you were showing me was all there was to you.  I had no doubt in my mind that you were a bit troubled.  And, to speak honestly, I didn't want to feel cheated out of my every thought, opinion, and feeling about you.  And so, I made my request.

Once my request was made and agreed upon, it was like you completely changed right before my eyes.  I saw that reluctant and nervous sides of you disappear.  The look in your eyes became more sincere and your smile all the more meaningful.  You started radiating a feeling that got me flustered.  And most importantly, I felt the doors to your heart open.  The more you and I talked afterwards, I began to see and feel in person, and on a deeper level, all these things that were mentioned of you.  And even after you've made certain this greater side to you, you went even beyond that when the discussion became about me and you moved me to tears.  I've been put to tears many times before, but never have I cried like the way I did at that moment.  The way you understood me, and the way you practically knew of my past relationships, their outcomes, my emotions that followed, and the way you comforted me about everything, including what I was doing with you, simply moved me to tears.  And as easy as it was for you to move me to tears, you took them away just the same.

From there you solidified my trust in you.  And in that time from the beginning of our date to then, you captured my heart like never before.  I wanted to be yours now more than ever.  Taking our night to the bar, I felt you wanted the same by the way you held my hand in return.  Knowing your ways like I do now, you can be hard to read at times, but by the simplest of touches you reveal more than enough to let me know what is on your mind.  And so I thought, if ever there were to be a moment for us to fall for each other, this was it.

There were a few good songs for you and me to dance to.  I wanted to choose a Shania Twain song, but after seeing your CD collection and all the duplicate copies you have of her albums, a voice in my head told me not to.  I bet I made you nervous.  As much as you understood me, I felt I understood you and why one of her songs wouldn't have been fitting at the time.  And so, like my selection, you took me "With Arms Wide Open" and we danced.  With how our night together was going, the song was fitting to how I was feeling towards you.  And with the way you held me close and with an even more confident tone in your voice, I knew I made the right choice.  In a defining instant, everything between us was revealed.  And so it happened - the moment I was waiting for, the moment I was wanting.  I never imagined such a romantic moment like that would ever happen to a girl like me, but it did, and it was with you.  I've never felt so much electricity in a kiss before.  And for those few minutes, with your soft and tender lips, you completely took my breath away.

Afterwards, things between us got hot and heavy.  The fact that you were hitting all my buttons wasn't helping either.  I began to question if taking you home was the right thing to do.  You were changing my world right before my eyes and you were showing me something incredible.  And though you gave me little doubt, I just wasn't sure if I was personally ready to close the night like it was planned.  Needless to say, and as confessed, the events later that evening were very much orchestrated.  While those intentions were there, I personally wanted you for all that you are.

Taking you home with me, you didn't disappoint me for a single second, especially while it was just the two of us.  The way we kissed and pleased each other’s bodies was unbelievably intense.  When it came time for that plan to take full effect, it became alarming how responsive and quick you were to get into our endless night of kink.  And for those hours that followed, you simply were too much, and I became addicted to you completely.

Driving you back home, it became hard for me to realize that someone like you was real.  For me, you were almost too good to be true.  But you are real, and you are that good to be true.  Certain things began to puzzle me, but more importantly, would I be able to be the girl for you.  And so I asked.  Your reply of maybe irritated me a bit, but I wasn't disappointed with that answer.  There was still a lot to know about you, and I wasn't being rejected because of the way you were to me.  Although a bit irritated, I was satisfied, because you didn't once bring up the issue of money.  And because of that, I really knew that you thought and felt differently about me.  I really knew that you had the same feelings for me as I did for you.

The weeks that followed saw a lot of you and I being together.  It was never my intention to intrude on your life like the way I did, but it was my way of being with you and finding out more about your personal life, and of course, trying to figure why you were indecisive to a committed relationship with me.  Those times we spent together were so simple but also the best times I've ever spent with a guy.  As good as it was, it was also frightening, because if that is merely us being close friends with the greatest of benefits, then I could only dream how life would be if you became serious with me.  I prepared myself every step of the way though.  And it only became a matter of time before I knew what I needed to know.

Despite you and me not being the official couple, it just felt like it to me, especially when we were in public together.  The way you would hold my hand, hug me, and kiss me made me feel all the more special to you and I was constantly reminded of that whenever we were out and seen together.  I assumed you had a following of girls, but I never imagined it would be to the point where I became the talk and envy of many women that knew you.  It's become no wonder why you lived a quiet and reclusive life.  It also got me wondering exactly what it was these women were after with you.  No matter the answer, I was the one you were holding close.

Regarding your work, from the start, I wasn't thrilled with the idea of sharing you with anyone if a steady relationship were to become of us.  I wasn't trying to be controlling or possessive over you or anything like that.  I just didn't want to lose you.  If you fell for me, who's to say that you won't fall for another girl.  But I understand what it is that you truly do and I want you to continue doing it.  I experienced that first hand, albeit on a personal level.  It might bother me at times that what you're labeled as is nowhere near correct.  But knowing the truth, there is no way I cannot support you in what you're doing.  It would be selfish of me to keep you all to myself.  And sure, I might get jealous at times, especially when you're off doing what you do best with a complete stranger, and even agitated with the fact that you've made more money than me in a few months time than I have in a year, but when all is said and done, I'm still yours in the end.  I don't have to worry about losing you anymore, because you've defined and shown me what separates your work and your personal life.  And in your personal life you have me.

Being with you, even with the simple life you try to live, certainly has some excess baggage.  I didn't think that would be the case when we first met and when we first went out.  But since then, it has become the case.  I know all too well now everything you've warned me about.  I never thought a relationship with someone could have its complications.  You're not just anyone though, you're someone, you're someone special, you're you - and this excess baggage is apart of you, they're apart of your life.  Even with your simplistic efforts, that excess baggage will be there no matter what.  And to completely be with you, I have to accept and face some of the same issues that you do.  Some may not be liked more so than others, but for me, you're everything worth it.  I'm prepared for my life ahead with you.

It's been several weeks now since you've entered my life.  But for me, I feel like you've been in it longer.  I've gone out with many men and have been hurt many times as well.  I've had my share of disappointments.  But with each of those experiences, something greater within me was being created.  And so, like any girl who is a helpless romantic, I began to have my dreams of this perfect guy.  He came along once, and then a few times after.  And it became him who set the standard for any guy to follow, because I didn't know any better.  My dreams of this perfect guy were nothing more than a delusion, I was chasing after the wrong dream because I was unable to move forward.  I was fixated on the past and trying to relive it.  Yet, with each new experience that greater dream was still being created into something more.  And in the back of my mind, I knew if I kept chasing after that dream, one day, my dream would become a reality.

It took someone like you to bring about what I was chasing after.  And when you moved me to tears on our first date, I knew right then and there that you were that dream come true.  You understand me for all and everything I am without question.  You listen to me.  You're attentive to my emotions and know how to comfort me at all times even when all I need is time alone.  You're affectionate with no restraints and you know how to make me feel good about myself.  You give me confidence.  You satisfy my every need, inside and out.  Overall, and, because I can't deny it, if ever there were to be a person to know what women want, that person would surely be you.

From that night we had first gone out to now, I have come to know what it is in my heart that I felt for you.  And every day with you since then, you've only made that feeling for you grow better and stronger.  You assure me constantly that this feeling is right with all your sincere and meaningful ways.  With all the romantic things we do together, like cuddling in bed, slow dancing to our favorite songs, or showing our affection for another, how can I not feel it.  But when you kiss me, I feel it on my lips, I feel it with my body, and I feel it in my heart that I love you..

I've searched a lifetime looking for you, and possibly even longer.  Now that I have you in my life, I know all my lonely nights are finally over.  Everything about you just seems to fit and you fulfill me in every way possible.  I've never felt this way for someone before, but I know it’s true.  I love you, Eric, and I forever will, because the woman in me needs the man in you.

Always,
Allie

(May 2007)

It has been about six months from the time Allie and I first met to now. And in that time we have done and been through so much together that at times it is hard for us to believe it hasn't been for longer. Yet, no matter how much time goes by, each memory we've shared still feels like they've happened just yesterday. For the two of us, we know they have been the best and happiest times of our lives, and maybe, that is why each memory still lingers strong within us. On several occasions, we've wondered if life and our love can be any better, and every time after we've wondered such a thing, it has been proven that it can. It's just a matter of time. And like the everlasting memory we made in a single defining moment over the weekend, it has been proven once more.

While there were a bit of careful and hidden planning involved, and many things leading up to that moment, it all happened on Sunday evening during our whole weekend stay in Pebble Beach with her parents. The day before, all the work was finished at the other house her parents had worked on during the week. From when Allie and I had worked on the house to now, the changes have been made very significant and the house's remodeled interior, exterior, and garden couldn't be any better. However, with the work, it left the four of us tired and exhausted. And with all the wine we drank after the Red Lobster dinner we had in Monterey that Saturday night, we slept in quite a bit on Sunday. Considering my sleeping habits, I felt very refreshed by the long and comforting slumber, and Allie and her parents felt the same way once woken.

After a small lunch Allie and I had prepared for the four of us, it became decided the day would be one of fun and relaxation. For that day, up until dinner, that was what we did. Allie's father suggested going to the bay and taking out the boat and maybe do some crabbing and fishing. And while it was an entertaining idea, it was a bit out there, and Jessica, with a questionable gaze like, "what in the world are you thinking," shot down the idea. In an encrypted way, I declined the idea as well, with Allie easily following suit. So for that time being up until around 5, we all did a variety of things together: we drove around Pebble Beach with the amusement of yard sales and prospected around for new investments, we cleaned our cars, including the amazing, custom '65 Corvair Corsa in the garage, played a game of croquette, and played a few competitive matches of doubles-badminton on the front lawn once the wind had died down with the set we found in the garage. Her parents were brutal against Allie and me in croquette, but we totally got them back in badminton. With the fun and games, even with how cool it was, we worked up a bit of a sweat and appetite.

While her parents showered together in that amazing waterfall-like shower of theirs in their room, Allie and I showered together in the bathroom down the hall from our room, which, in its own way, was equally amazing with it having three showerheads, and being even more comfortable. It's almost hard to describe that shower, but upon first glance when you enter that bathroom, it looks like two separate showers, because you see the two glass doors separated by a wall and in each are a showerhead. But once you're in there, it's just one giant shower and you see the third showerhead on the back wall, with each showerhead having their own control, and in the center of all that, against the front wall is this type of custom-built seating. And after we had thoroughly washed up, I found myself sitting and leaning back a bit in that seat, with Allie sitting on my lap laying back against my chest, holding her like the way she wanted to be held. Her skin felt smoother and softer than ever, and for what felt like a minute or two, not a word was spoken. And for that time, it seemed like she was in tears. When she turned to her side her misty eyes told me the truth. Her tears were of happiness, and holding onto me with her arm around my neck with her head leaning on it, she expressed that happiness telling me, "I love you so much." I told her the same, and for awhile longer, we simply held each other in another timeless embrace.

Back in our room and still wrapped in our towels, we started to get ready, when her mom walked in wrapped in a towel that didn't exactly cover all her assets. She asked us if we wanted to have seafood, fine-dining, and drinks for dinner. Intentionally leaving the decision up to Allie, she said it would be great, and with that, her mom told us to dress up because the restaurant we would be going to is a bit on the fancy side. While Allie already has an extensive wardrobe there, I don't, but I came well packed for the occasion and brought along with me, without question from Allie on Friday, my best, light and comfortable, Gucci black suit with its matching pair of black patent leather loafers. With a white undershirt on, and a 3/4 buttoned up dark blue dress shirt over that, that was my attire for the evening ahead of us. And in her sexy simplicity, Allie wore a full-length, dark blue print, sleeveless sundress. And if that wasn't enough, with her hair up and make-up done, she put on the diamond earrings and necklace I gave her the day we confessed our love for each other in Yosemite. She looked stunning, and really, that dress alone not only complimented her body, but it also complimented her fun and carefree personality.

All dressed and ready to go, we went downstairs to wait for her parents in the living room. Scott came down first who wore a more casual black suit and attire, much like those when he comes into work. He complimented us on our appearance and we did the same. For some reason, it felt like Senior Prom all over again with the exception of several things, but really it was just dinner. Jessica soon followed wearing an all black, and if I'm guessing correctly, cocktail dress. She looked really good, but on cue, she stopped halfway on the stairs asking me to help her get a pair of shoes up in the closet. Going back up with her, playing along with the act and leaving Allie at the company of her dad, we went to the master bedroom where I sat on the edge of the bed along with Jessica when she pulled out from behind her purse the box and gave it to me. She told me I "have really good taste." And if my confidence wasn't at an all time high, she made certain that it was when she firmly held my hand and gave me a kiss telling me, "You'll be great, son." I slowly opened the box, and for the first time I saw what I had diligently custom ordered and patiently waited for. I pulled out with an inspiring gaze the Tiffany & CO. Platinum 2.42 ct Marquise Cut Diamond Ring. After checking the inscription myself, I stood up and put just the ring in the left pocket of my pants making certain its security while Jessica hid the box back in the drawer where its been kept hidden ever since she went to pick it up for me earlier that week. With her shoes now on, before we went back downstairs, I gave Jessica a hug thanking her for all the help.

The distance from the house to the restaurant really wasn't that far, but with the restricted speed on 17 Mile Drive it really took some time to get there. The chosen restaurant was Club XIX, a restaurant Allie's never eaten at before, so for both her and I this would be another first. Entering, Allie and I walked arm in arm along side her parents. And when we were being seated, it almost seemed like we were a tad bit overdressed compared to some of those who were already dining there. Allie, above all, stood out with the jewelry she was wearing. Simply put, they're overkill. And as if we didn't lose our touch, we got a lot of admirable looks walking through the restaurant. For the two hours that followed, we wined and dined. It was fun, and very entertaining with the stories we were telling. There was no talk of work, and no wondering by her parents about our future, because they already knew. It was pure quality time that we were having. And if I didn't know any better, I could have sworn I saw Clint Eastwood walking out of the restaurant at one point. But maybe that was the wine playing tricks on my imagination. We certainly did drink a lot of wine, though, and it became a surprise that we weren't capped with all the glasses we were ordering. But by around 8 that evening we found ourselves going back home.

I ended up driving since Allie and I weren't too sure about her parents, but they were okay, because when we pulled into the driveway, her mom made the suggestion of walking down to the beach to watch the sunset. Allie, who I know couldn't resist, was all for it. And just like that, we found ourselves walking down the road towards the beach, with the girls walking barefoot as they left their high heels at the house. While there were clouds scattered here and there above us, across the distance, the sun was clearly visible. With how much time we knew we had left before the sun touched the horizon and began setting, we decided on taking the longer route to the beach to where we could just walk onto it from the road instead of climbing down a staircase. The whole way down we walked holding hands, and for most of that, we walked ahead of her parents who, too, were living up the romance.

When we finally reached the beach, we were met with stronger winds that easily gave Allie a chill. Quick to respond, I gave her my jacket and helped her put it on. And no sooner after, we found ourselves walking arm and arm once more, but this time, closer and unlike any time before, the way she held me and leaned against me as we walked saw to a completely new feeling. We became immune to the sunset in the background as our every attention went onto each other when I asked her, "This is all beautiful, isn't it?" Unsure if I was referring to the sunset that neither of us was paying attention to, she asked about it, and I answered, 'being here with each other.' Allie agreed and remarked further. And from there, and in depth, we talked about us. We brought up a lot of memories from our early beginnings, remembering them with crystal clear clarity. Smiles were brought upon us, and the way we were reliving the past through sharing memories felt like we were falling in love all over again. It wasn't until I brought up a certain memory that our pace really slowed, and the memory I shared with her is one she remembers and knows about all too well.

It was on February 27th, and on that day there was a lot of question whether or not Allie would be coming home from work, because our area was beginning to get hit by a blizzard, and we weren't certain if her car would make it up with all the snow that was coming down. But she made it home safely. We took a lot of comfort in bed the rest of that night keeping warm under the covers and watching TV. And then, just like that, the power went out, and we became snowed-in, luckily, we had a lot of candles, so we were good as far as lighting goes. We got restless quite easy, and without power to do much, we decided to go outside and play in the snow. We made snow angels, made a snowman, and had a snowball fight together. It was fun and funny, especially during our snowball fight. I was repeatedly hitting her dead on, while she was just throwing wildly. And it just so happened that I was standing under the oak tree in our front yard when she threw a snowball, and just like that, I became blanketed with snow from the branches above me with a lot getting in and under all the layers I was wearing. I pretty much lost that fight, but as a sense of redemption, I ended up tackling her and pinning her to the ground. At that moment, looking into her innocent hazel eyes all I wanted to do was make love to her. And in that white winter wonderland, we started making out, kissing at each other's necks, but before anything else could happen we had to get inside. The new found passion between us was relentless as we wrestled taking each other's clothes off on the way to the shower kissing each other wherever and whenever we could with more intimacy. And for two hours while in a very steamy shower, and another two in our candlelit bedroom, all we did was make love to one another. Tired like never before, we found falling asleep to be a thing of ease, but before doing so, I was made to promise that we would always be together. And without question, I did.

We came to a stop when I reminded her of that promise. And from a view of the ocean and the memories we saw within it, our view became of only each other. Holding her left hand with my right, and looking deep into the heaven of those same innocent hazel eyes, I told her, "It was on that day I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you," while I gently took off the promise ring she has so proudly worn for the past few months. After gracefully pulling out the ring from my pocket, holding it before her and getting down on one knee, I looked up at her in all her beauty and radiance, with tears slowly running down the sides her cheeks, and in a memorable way, I proposed to her. Without hesitation, but with heavy breathing, Allie said, "Yes, I will, I will marry you." Like the perfect fit we are together, I slipped the engagement ring onto her finger, and the moment I stood back up, we instantly hugged. Looking at each other once more, I wiped away her tears with the brushing of my thumbs across her cheeks. We were both overfilled with happiness, but this truly was love and destiny at its finest. We were feeling it, and for the longest time, we knew it. We complete each other, and after we exchanged our everlasting vows of love, we sealed it all with a long, romantic, tender kiss.

After awhile, we began to see the world around us once more, and there to congratulate us with hugs were Scott, who was sporty many smiles, and Jessica, who was still in tears feeling nothing but love and happiness for the both of us. Even with all the planning and talks, nothing prepared them for that moment. But they were there with us the whole time, watching from behind, and I'm glad they were.

The feeling is still overwhelming, and the memory is still fresh. And since that night, more memories have been made. When we got back on Monday evening, we were met with many open arms from those who went out with us to celebrate our engagement. And for most of yesterday, we made love many times over and like never before. And as time goes by, a lifetime more of memories will be made. All of which we will carry with us. And just like the inscription inside of her ring, we will cherish those memories, our life, and our love "Always & Forever."

I hear a voice across the eluding distance
It sounds like the one I haven’t heard for so long
Could it be her or a figment of my imagination
Wanting my dear love to come home

Her voice I hear on the phone time and time again
So soft, so gentle, and sweet like it’s always been
I miss her so much and her real whispers in my ears
Only her tender touch can wipe away these tears

There is no one like her, nor will there ever be
The simple sound of her voice sets my soul at ease
This voice I heard, I wish it were true
To hear with an embrace her words I miss, I love you

 © 2007 Eric G. Draven

The past few weeks have definitely been nothing short of busy and quite fatiguing at times.  While the primary source of it all is my sheer determination with work and industry related issues, there have been many other matters that bring great truth to the phrase, “never a dull moment.”

One of those matters is a very important one.  And as Allie and I dance closer to our set wedding date, the need to get wedding invitations sent out becomes more pressing.  On average, they’re supposed to be sent out a month and a half prior to, which would mean we have a lot of time to get them done.  But like the calculated planners we are, we’ve determined that two months ahead of time and sending out all the invitations at the end of April would be the better approach for our white, weekend, destination wedding.  So to get ahead of the possible daunting array of necessary upcoming events and planning, we started shopping for wedding invitations with our idealized and romantic wedding theme of “Heaven” in mind.

The first, most convenient and consistent place we started to look for wedding invitations was on the internet with the use of ad link references from Allie’s Brides Magazine.  And though we’re still looking, with the exception of one possibility, we found none to be really worthwhile and worth agreeing to.  And aside from a few designs, none really had that meaningful and memorable appeal to them.  And to comment on the matter, a lot of the websites we visited literally had the same selection of wedding invitations.  Then, to expand our invitation options, with the company of two of Allie’s Bridesmaids, Maid of Honor, and my sister’s boyfriend, Allie and I checked out several bridal stores/wedding shops in San Francisco one weekend.  While unsuccessful in finding that perfect one, the venture did open more doors for us.  And since we were in San Francisco, we also got to do additional shopping and have some fun, though it was at Heather’s apartment at UC Davis where we really had our partying fun.  Then the following weekend, with Christy and Jamie, we went to the Concord area to hopefully find that right invitation.  And with luck, we did, but in the end we didn’t.  Ideally, what we found had what we were looking for and more.  The cruel exception was that two of the design patterns on it weren’t appealing, including those bars, and the color schemes used didn’t capture that heavenly feeling to it.  We did ask if the invitation layout could be redesigned and customized to fit us, but didn’t quite receive the degree of response we were hopefully for.  And of course, during our treks several designers offered their full line of services to us, which under full consideration may be the route we end up taking.

In relation to wedding invitations, Allie and I, her parents, and my mom still have the matter of the invitation list to work on, and this is something we’ve been trying to work on for the past two weeks.  And it isn’t so much about knowing who to invite, but knowing who has to be uninvited, a task that is proving not to be easy.  When we first put this list together the total number of invites came to five-hundred plus people, a very high number considering the maximum capacity of the ballroom at The Spanish Bay Inn at Pebble Beach is 350, and Allie and I still think having that many guests is too many, especially since we’re looking forward to a big dance floor.  And considering the ceremony will be outside and right next to the reception, we’re expecting a very high return rate to the invitations we’ll be sending out.  Of the invitation list, close to 250 are my family lists put together, almost 200 are our friends and family friends, about 35 are VIP, and 27 are Allie’s family invites.  The number of VIP is a certainty as Allie’s parents already worked that out, and so are the 27 from Allie’s side of the family.  And it isn’t so much that Allie’s side is small, because it’s not, but because of money and the bad family politics that makes those on my sides of the family look tame, only those who Allie and her parents are on good terms with will be invited.  Also, I’m still contemplating whether or not I should open my first lines of communication with my daughter in Jersey by sending her and her adoptive parents an invitation.  And if I did, sending one to her mother in Arizona, which is even hard of a decision to make.  But since the conception of that list, we’ve been able drop the number down to 394, which is still too many.  So we’ve constantly got that to think about and work on.

Furthermore, in another wedding-related matter, I still have to decide on 7 more groomsmen to match the 10 bridesmaids that Allie has.  Unlike Allie who decided on her bridesmaids with practical ease, with Heather being her maid of honor, deciding on groomsmen isn’t so easy, particularly because I lack any real association with guys in general, even within my family.  The decision of my best man was a given though.  In fact, my brother was the first person I called after proposing to Allie.  But I suppose as time dwindles down, and the invitations are sent out, the honoring decision will be less hard for me to make.

The last of the defining matters to my recent busy ways has to deal with my consuming hobby of eBay.  While I do have a spending habit with how much I shop on there, the real consumption has to do with selling, something I took seriously in November when I opened my own store.  Before then, I sold every now and then, mostly gaming cards but also old cell phones and electronics that Allie and I outgrew or got an upgrade of, just to get rid of stuff, and even selling for family and friends who found the need to the same thing and found me to be the better person to sell their items.  While Allie and I hold a few accounts, though one is more my moms and I just properly market and sell her stuff for her, it’s my original dragonballeverlasting account that has been the busiest.  It’s my primary selling account, and with it I mostly sell Dragon Ball Z/GT Gaming cards.  While my sole reason for really selling on eBay again is a hidden one, the success of that reason has become apparent, and my sales of just cards is outstanding.  It is so outstanding that it often bothers Allie whenever she finds me attending to or expanding my eBay business while at home or any other place or time that isn’t at the Office.  But she understands my passion for what I do on there, and knows it’s not for the money.  Overall, as the top seller for my primary category, business on eBay has been absolutely constant, it’s probably the consequence of that success.  And truthfully, sometimes time consuming, especially with all the buyer questions I receive.  But at least what I’m doing on eBay is for a good cause, and that’s worth being proud of.

With everything that has been going on lately, it’s been almost hard to have any real free time, or in general, any time to simple get away from it all.  Allie and I did find a lot of comfort last Monday when we stayed home and watched movies all day.  We even turned off all our cell phones for the whole day, which was quite strange of an experience and concerning to those who tried to get a hold of us that day.  But come this Friday, along with Heather and our roommate, Christy, Allie and I will get our chance to get away from at all as we’ll be joining Jenn, Kelly, and Jamie in Rosarito Beach, Mexico for Spring Break 2008.

This Spring Break will officially be my first that I’ll be out with the Party crowd, and it will be third for Allie.  And in all honesty, I’m both excited and somewhat terrified of going.  Of course, I’m excited about the fun, good times, and general craziness that we as a group seemingly always have when we are all together.  But considering my all female company and the swimsuits I know they’ll be wearing since I was there when they all went shopping for them, the fact that I take offense whenever anyone makes a pass at Allie if she doesn’t handle it in time, and that we’ll be surrounded most of the time by drunken horny college guys, it would be hard not to be concerned or terrified in some way.  And already, I have my concerns because the second night the girls were there, Jamie found herself a “hella cute friend” from Fresno as spoken by Jenn, and that since the beginning of the week, that “hella cute friend” has been staying at the suite with them.  Considering Jamie’s past with men, how can we here not be concerned.  On top of that, Allie and I paid for that suite.  Plus, we gave Jamie off so it would be a party of three till the rest of us arrived.  And she’s the one that lands a guy.  So I don’t know.  “Hella cute” or not, we’ll just have to see what happens when we get there. 

Anyways … everything is set and the necessary plans have been made for us to simply take a break from it all as we lay winter to rest and enjoy the awakening time, festivities and the warmth that is spring.

(February 2007)

It never fails to amaze me just how romantic Allie and I can be.  We really don't try hard to make romantic moments, nor do we really plan these types of things.  It's like it comes naturally to the both of us.  But when all is said and done, her and I can look back at the moment and just get lost in knowing how sweet and romantic it was.  And such was the case earlier tonight.

When Allie got home from another tiring day at the office, it became an easy decision that her and I would go out for dinner since neither of us was in the mood to cook.  As good as we are in the kitchen we do have our lazy moments.  Since I was still dressed from my lunch date with her mom, we quickly headed out the door and left taking my car.

On the way into town, she told me about her day at work, and in return I detailed her about my lunch date with her mom and the events of my day.  And then, about halfway there, it started to rain.  It was actually exciting.  We hadn't gotten a drop of rain in this area since late last year, so the change was a nice feeling.  In fact, it was too nice of a feeling, because the rain started to have an affect on my body and emotions.  It's much like that feeling I get when I watch Phantom of the Opera.  And I wasn't alone in that feeling.  Without any thought or hesitation, I then took a detour and started heading in the opposite direction.  I can tell Allie was wondering what I was doing, but she didn't say anything.  She often doesn't.  It goes to show how much she understands my spontaneity.  All she did was hold my hand tighter.  And a few minutes later, we found ourselves parked atop and in the middle of the Oroville Dam.

The thought of it all simply felt right.  And the look Allie gave me told me she knew, and was willing and wanting.  Sometimes, she and I don't have to say anything to each other to let the other know what is on our mind.  So I turned off the engine, left the headlights on, put in our CD, pocketed the remote to my stereo, put down all the windows without concern, and got out of the car.  Opening her door, I took her by the hand as she got out, and I kept that affectionate embrace as we took those few steps together towards the front of my car.  With my remote, I hit a loud volume preset to the stereo, and then the random play button.

The first song to play was "Unchained Melody" by LeAnn Rimes, and immediately as it started, I took Allie into my arms as she wrapped her arms around my neck resting her head on my shoulder.  As we danced, I was reminded of our night of slow dances, and how she sang the same song to me hitting every note.  Her voice is amazing.  She is amazing.  And there I was slow dancing with her.  Dancing in the rain couldn't have been any better: we were lakeside at one of the most scenic spots one's eyes will ever see; the glow of the moon was penetrating the clouds just enough to reflect a faint light on the surface of the lake that made the raindrops hitting the water sparkle with gem-like colors; on the other side of the dam, we were able to see stars twinkling in the distance through clear winter skies; and the rain wasn't light or hard, nor was it too much or too little, nor did it feel cold for some reason, it just felt perfect.

The following song that played was the first song Allie and I ever danced to.  And as soon as we heard it, we held each other even tighter.  It was like we were simultaneously reminded of our first date.  How can we ever forget it?  It was a night of magic, a night of changes, a night of memories, and a night her and I will cherish for the rest of our lives.  As the song played, we just kept dancing away getting further lost in love.  Nothing in the world mattered; it was just the two of us, at least until company arrived.  But even then, the two cops in the cruiser mattered nothing to us.  Even as they turned around and stopped directly across my car and about 20 feet from us, I thought nothing of the law I broke.  This was our time.  It was our moment.  Surprisingly, the two officers only made the moment better by contributing their headlights.

The next song we slow danced to couldn't have been any more touching to the moment, as it turned out to be "When You Kiss Me" by Shania Twain.  We turned to looking at each other, and it became decided, with the police there, that this would be our last slow dance for the night.  Plus, we were completely soaked.  I was able to see Allie's bra with great detail through her white button-up cover shirt.  I believe it was at that point I started to get turned on and began to notice more things, like, the stunning depths of her eyes and how their color changed from their everyday hazel to a mystic green, how her hair still felt soft as I brushed my fingers through it, how her lips looked all the more sensual and inviting, and how the water trickled down her neck and between her breasts.  I wanted to take her right there.  And I knew there would be no resistance on Allie's part, because she was turned on as well.  But I couldn't, we couldn't.  If only they weren't there.  So instead, and like never before, after an exchange of "I love you" and other terms of endearment, our lips engaged in a long, tender, warming, and passionate kiss that ended just as the song did.  And for a minute afterwards and into the next song, we simply held each other.

After, arm in arm with our hands clasped, we daringly walked over to the police car and I knocked on the driver's window.  With the window rolled down, we looked in and to our surprise both of the officers were women.  I suppose I got used to the idea of always getting busted by male officers.  Leaving Allie out of it, I asked, "Am I in trouble," because it was illegal of me to have parked on the dam.  And word for word, the officer closest to us said, "Oh no, after watching something like that, I couldn't possibly give you a ticket."  I was relieved, because the last thing I want before our vacation to Hawaii was something stressful to deal with.  And then, leaning over a bit to make eye contact, the other officer told Allie, word for word as Allie recalls, "You've got one hell of a boyfriend, girl, don't you ever lose him."  Allie smiled and gave her thanks along with her assurance that she wouldn't.  I, on the other hand, thought it to be interesting that we weren't seen as husband and wife.  We showed our appreciation nonetheless, and as a show of gratitude, I told the two officers, if they had a break coming up, that I'd treat them to a meal at the dine-in restaurant we were going to.  Well, they did, and they took me up on my offer.

Heading into town, with the two officers trailing behind us, we had the heaters up to max.  We were really soaked.  I was surprised that the interior of my car was barely wet.  The heater felt nice though, and it certainly helped in drying us off some.  Arriving at Blueberry Twist, we caused another one of those scenes when we walked in.  I'm not sure, though, if it was Allie and I and the fact that we were wet, or if it was the two officers standing directly behind us that people were looking at.  From there, we took our seats, and I asked the two officers if they would like to sit with us since I was paying for their meal.  They did.  We all talked, their radios started to get a bit annoying, and then out of the blue, one of them asks me, "So what do you do for a living?"  I'm thinking, 'ah shit,' while a whole list of occupations played through my mind.  I went with Consultant, though.  It's fitting and it worked, and that became that.  We had our dinner, the two female officers had their free meal and we made friends out of them.

Afterwards, Allie and I headed back home, where we took a long hot shower together, and finished what we couldn't finish earlier while we were dancing in the rain.

After the fun and memorable times we shared over the weekend, it seems there is a strong possibility that Allie and I with the likely good company of our closest friends will be going back to Tahoe this coming weekend to take advantage of all the constant and freshly fallen snow that is being received there.  However, that possibility, more or less, depends on my decision.

While it is Allie’s greater desire, and practical goal to see me successfully go down the intermediate slopes with her, she has taken to heart the unnecessary risk of jeopardizing my already reduced physical condition.  As low as the temperatures were, neither of us got sick.  In fact, I don’t remember there being a time where I felt any of the cold thanks to the shots of cognac we’d take before going out, and the wines and each other we’d have at night.  So what’s wrong with me now, according to our doctor, is that I have a strategically placed bruise on my right hip that is affecting my mobilization.  And though I ate a lot of powder on Friday trying to learn how to snowboard, considering it was first time, it was probably the next day when I was given the confidence to take on an intermediate slope that I crashed and burned and bruised my hip.  And it didn’t particularly help that I kept at it the following day back on the beginner courses, and it hasn’t helped either with Allie’s everyday insatiable appetite, though I’m not complaining.

So, depending on how my hip feels and if I can swing it like normal within the next 30 hours, depends on what we’ll be doing for the weekend.  If it is decided that we’ll go back to Tahoe, and our girl friends decide to come along, it will definitely mean a few busy hours before we actually take the drive.  If not, and since clubbing would be out of the question, the girls will probably find time to make it a Girl’s Night Out.  In which case, I’d probably go out by myself or with Allie’s dad to gamble at the casino and hopefully be the one to win that 1.3 million Wheel of Fortune progressive jackpot.  The money is nice, but to have your name embedded and identified as the one who won the largest jackpot from Gold Country Casino would be even better.

As for today, the weather is rainy, but it marks the one year, one month, and one day milestone for Allie and me.  I suppose it’s the whole 1:1:1 ideal that has Allie more stoked about it than I am.  She even gave me a plastic rose as a gift that she bought at the gas station while I filled up our car this morning.  Her sweet, tender, and giving ways are never ending, even after our celebration and dinner of our one year and one month anniversary last night.  But no matter how big or small, costly or inexpensive, any gift from Allie is symbolic and as meaningful as the everyday love, devotion, and understanding she gives me.

 
Come tomorrow, Allie and I will be leaving for our Valentine’s and extended weekend vacation.  It’s a vacation that is long overdue since the last time we went on one was in September.  However, unlike the travels we took then and the Hawaiian vacation I took Allie on last year for Valentine’s Day, we will be staying within our comfort zone as we will be going to her family’s vacation home and hitting the slopes in South Lake Tahoe.

While I can’t admit I am to blame for not being able to go any sooner, I must say that I do feel bad.  If it weren’t for me starting off the New Year with sickness after sickness, Allie and I would have certainly made several trips there already.  But, I suppose it’s all for the better, and the timing of our romantic, white winter wonderland vacation couldn’t have come at a better time, because now we have the added incentive of this vacation being a reward for us, especially for Allie.

For weeks, because of the time of year it is and the Company expectancies set by Allie’s parents (which in a great sense are also our expectancies), we have been particularly busy with work and putting in extra hours compared to our usual laid back norm.  For me, it was really all about doing my homework, coming up with a new marketing strategy, and seeing its execution within all our divisions and smaller companies.  For Allie, aside from her usual ETM, it has all been about taxes, taxes, and more taxes.  Leaving those private details out, it is now safe to say that all that work is behind us, at least where Allie is concerned, as her major task finally came to a close with the sealing of an envelope by her parents on Monday.  And since we can, this vacation is very much our reward, of course, more so Allie’s than mine.

So until Presidents’ Day on Monday, Allie and I will be in Tahoe enjoying ourselves and every part of each other - playing in the snow, skiing and snowboarding some of the best white slopes in California, dining in luxury at their many esteemed restaurants, cuddling next to one another by the tender warmth of a fireplace while sipping on Napa Valley’s finest Merlot and White Zinfandel, and more – as we live up the dream of a promising romantic Valentine’s and our Winter Wish.