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.

Last night, after almost 2 weeks of watching the series, Allie and I finally finished watching Macross 7.  With how busy she and I have been lately, this would be the longest we’ve taken to watch a title together.  But in the end, it was well worth it as Macross 7 didn’t fail in pleasing us.

While we still have other unopened Macross titles to watch, I have become a big fan of the title and its many series, and I really have Allie to thank for that, because it was her growing interest that made mine grow.  And if she had not asked to start watching Macross, several of its titles would still be in their shrink wrap.  However, not to give Allie all the credit, the storylines had an appeal of their own, and so did the characters.  In particular, Max and Myria (or Milia, Millia, Mylia, etc.) Jenius and their absolute sexiness and romance, even with their showing of a failed marriage in Macross 7.  I feel, without a doubt, like other storylines and characters, our appeal to Max and Myria is due to the fact that we, in one way or another, can relate ourselves and us as a couple to them, or to simply put it, we see ourselves in them.

One of the greater interests that came from watching Macross 7 is its music.  Almost every song was great.  One song that stands out above the rest is “Light the Light.”  And it was definitely moving when Milia sang it along with Fire Bomber and Gamlin.  With how much we have come to quickly love that song, Allie now wants to have it played at our wedding in one way or another.  Strangely, despite having knocked off many Japanese and anime songs to fit the tastes of everyone that will be at our big day, “Light the Light” is one song we are keeping on our play list.  And while I’m on the subject of Macross music, I can’t wait for Macross F (Frontier), as Yoko Kanno will be its co-composer.

As far as being fans of Macross, Allie and I definitely are not diehard fans, but we do have our appreciation.  So far, it’s just been watching its anime titles and having a strong line of Macross titles on DVD.  We have yet to cosplay any of its characters, but it’s practically a certainty considering we sometimes wear cosplay outfits to work, especially the regularity of Allie wearing sailor uniforms, particularly her Suzuka one.  I suppose if I start buying Macross animation cels and scale models of all the Valkyries, then that would be a good time to questions our fan-ship, or at least mine.

For the past few days now, I have once again fallen ill.  Unlike my previous ailments that I have just fully recovered from, this sickness has been very severe as I have been diagnosed with a potentially life threatening infection.  The severity of the infection depends on many factors.  As a worse case scenario, I may need to be operated on, but so far, my body in combination with several medications has been fighting the infection to a great degree.

Today is my first day I’m being allowed to do anything that isn’t strenuous or would alter my path to a quick recovery.  For the most part, I’ve been heavily medicated and sleeping most of the time since Allie and I left work early on Friday.  We had planned on a retreat to South Lake Tahoe all week to spend some quality alone time and to hit the slopes as Allie has wanted to do for some time now.  Unfortunately, that quality time will have to wait for another day.

So our quality time now has mostly been of Allie tending to my needs and watching over me as I try to get better.  She even made me her homemade chicken noodle soup that I haven’t had since last winter when I was last ill like this.  And despite the pain of swallowing, it’s as good as it has ever been.  Allie has also yet to leave my side.  She was asked to go out one night.  And though I was delirious, I still overheard and understood what was going on.  Surprised to find me awake after her phone conversation, I asked her why she didn’t want to go out and as a response; she told me it is because I’m her husband, I come first in her life, and that I needed her.  I don’t remember exactly what she said, and for that matter, I thought I was dreaming.  But it was true, and for the moments after, I really felt at ease.

One moment, I don’t remember when, I woke up from a very bad dream.  And in the recliner we have next to our bed, I found Allie sleeping.  It took a bit to focus my vision, but once I did I took notice to the sight of her, like how she was wearing her favorite dress shirt of mine with the sleeves rolled up, how she was positioned and how she had the throw blanket my mom gave us over her legs, and how our beloved cat was sleeping on her lap.  But above all those things, I took particular notice to her diary that was still in her hands.  The diary is actually mine, but she holds the key to it.  It was one of the first keepsakes Allie ever gave me, and just as she asked me, I have prolifically written in it ever since.  I wondered what entry she last read, or for that matter, how many entries of mine did she read to fall asleep in such a way.  But no matter the answer, the way I saw her then was like she was irradiating herself in a timeless beauty.  It took all my effort to fight my delirium and the pain to get up.  And when I did it, I leaned over her way to press my lips against hers.  My kiss ended up waking my sleeping beauty.

Allie embraced that kiss with sweetness, but when realization hit, she met it with concern as my lips and overall body temperature were said to be burning hot.  I honestly couldn’t tell.  I was given more things to take to get better, and then was told to lie back down.  This time, Allie came to bed with me, and she nestled herself into my cuddling embrace.  Until I fell asleep again, we talked much about our upcoming wedding, though I don’t remember most of our conversation.  But what I do remember was how I felt, and no matter how sick or delirious I may become, that feeling is something that will never be taken away.

The past month or so have certainly provided plenty of ups and downs.  While the closing days of last year saw to many wonderful and cherished times, the start of the New Year has been a rocky one.  And by the time all will be said and done, and with the great expectations ahead, I will be content in knowing that it is all finally settling down.

After all the celebrating and sobering up, the start of the New Year mainly started with work.  Due to the holidays and the excessive time we took off, Allie and I fell really behind in our work.  In every manner our work is in no way an obligation, but a responsibility for us.  And because it was the end of the month and the end of the year, there were more tasks to be done than the usual, especially for Allie and all the accounting and tax work she had to do.  While she got back on top of her game, in preparation for the first Company meeting of the year that Scott announced to be mandatory, I worked on the Quarter 4 and estimated Year Summary Reports.  And thanks to all the personal shortcuts Allie makes in her paperwork, doing those reports weren’t a problem.

The lunchtime meeting included every major player within the Company, from everyone at the Office to all the Managers and Assistant Managers of all the smaller companies, stores and franchises Allie’s parents own.  The only person that wasn’t there was Jenn who went back to Idaho to spend time with her parents for the Holiday Season.  And just like our parking lot, the meeting room was packed full.  Everyone did their part, starting with our Division Real Estate Agents.  They all gave their Status Reports, Allie worked the necessary numbers, I took notation of everything important, we advised and consulted, and mom and dad made the final say.  The only exception would have to be mom’s Boutique, because it’s very well managed and the business is consistent and reputable.  Mom makes sure of that.  And if not mom, especially in her absence, her Assistant Managers Jenn and Kelly do, and sometimes, so do Allie and I as we’ve found ourselves several times working there just for the fun of it.  Overall, the reason for the meeting was to increase profits, and for the recently started ventures, it was to start getting them into profit, because with the estimated Company earnings for 2007, despite being better than 2006s, mom and dad announced their expected Company earnings for 2008, which is roughly a dime more than 2007s.  The announcement was something to wonder about, but I never personally questioned it afterwards, and there really is no need to.  Despite all the money Allie’s parents earn and have floating around in investments, when it comes down to it, its business, plain and simple.  And in the end, it’s our business.  However, with the Executive Positions Allie and I hold, the obvious responsibility of overseeing that expectancy partially falls onto us and that is where Allie and I had our questioned afterwards.

Once that meeting was over, we talked to mom and dad about it in their office and with concern, Allie and I questioned in a variety of ways if work will interfere with our wedding and honeymoon plans.  We were guaranteed it wouldn’t happen, and told not to worry about it.  “Just do your best until then,” was what we were told, and while we’re having the time of lives, they’ll handle the rest.  But with our question, the long expected question temporarily brewed that was mutually answered when Allie and I looked at each other.  It was as if we knew in the back of our mind that if anyone were to replace Allie’s position, temporarily or otherwise, we had a good idea who it should be.

While she’s not employed by us yet, Christy is now our roommate and has been for a couple of weeks now.  She moved in with us just after Christmas.  It was the right thing for Allie and I to do, and Christy has been there since the beginning.  She was the first friend Allie and I made since we’ve been together.  She’d do anything for us, as would we for her.  We trust her completely and she’ll always there.  Christy is that kind of friend to us, and sometimes, at least more than anyone else, she’s more.  And when it came down to it, Allie and I just didn’t want her going home to a cold and lonely house anymore.  Now she has us and she uses the spare room Allie’s dad had built onto our house over the summer, but as expected, she sleeps with us every now and then.  She works at Oroville Hospital as a Respiratory Therapist, a career choice she made to help aid her late father, and for this town, she makes very good money and drives a 350Z.  Her hours are often erratic though, and seldom does she have a set work schedule.

Later that day of the meeting, at home and in bed, Allie and I had a talk with Christy and discussed her future with us.  It actually felt weird, because Christy is a month older than I am, but we got to the point and our discussion really went deep with her.  The importance of it all really told Christy just how we see her and how much she means to us.  And the same can be said about Scott and Jessica’s view of her.  If it weren’t the case, the decision wouldn’t have been left for us to make.  Considering she has no formal know-how with major accounting, it meant Christy would have to get enough schooling and training from Allie and/or mom before our big day before she could really take over.  But just like how we accepted her in our life almost a year ago, she took the offer with a smile and open arms.

The following days after were nothing short of hellacious, destructive, and at times, terrifying as the Northern Valley was hit by a freak storm that packed Category 1 hurricane wind gusts in its arsenal.  We were spared from its wrath for the first two days because we spent it in Elk Grove for my brother’s graduation ceremony from UTI and graduation party the day after, but we weren’t spared on the third day as Allie’s dad called us to come into work first thing in the morning.  And basically, he needed me out on the field with him accessing damage to all the properties and needed Allie in the Office with mom to work on the insurance claims.  We went home to change first and drop off Christy, and to our surprise, our house was frigid cold, and like the rest of the sector, as we soon discovered, the power was out due to fallen power lines.  One of the oak trees in front also broke in half, and all around our house were broken branches and twigs.  And then, the heavy freezing rain turned to light snowflakes, at least for awhile.  As much as I didn’t want her to, Christy took care of all the pets as we headed back out, this time, with consideration for the high winds, we took the Z4.  And for the most part, damage to all the properties I had to check was minimal to none, which would be easier and more convenient to pay for the repairs out of pocket.  However, being out in the elements really sucked, and the following day, my time out in such weather began to get the better of me.

I don’t know when it happened, but my left eye became infected and it really affected my normal everyday functions.  My eye was hurting and I could barely see out of it, and it was giving me headaches.  On top of that, I was sporting a very bad cough, which really made those headaches all the worse.  The next day, at the doctors, we came to find out that I had a something wooden lodged on the side of my eye, and though we knew because Christy checked me out, I had water in my lungs.  I was given anti-biotic and eye-drop prescriptions for my ailments, and to help better my eye, I was given an eye patch to wear for a week until my check-up visit.  Allie thought my eye patch was wickedly sexy.  However, with all the head pain I was in and my coughing, I couldn’t fully act on a lot of what she had in mind.  Aside from myself, dad somehow caught the flu, and 3 co-workers caught a cold.  In comparison, I’d say lucky them.

So I wore that eye-patch for a week and worked on my road to recovery.  I stayed home most of that time instead of going to work or anything.  I just wouldn’t be as effective as I’d like to be with only one good eye to work with.  And fortunately for me, it’s my actual good eye that requires no corrective lenses.  And with how much I was being babied at home by Allie, I definitely didn’t want to be a distraction for her.  But even with one good eye, reading or looking at a screen for a long duration would put a strain on it.  So as far as work has been concerned, I haven’t been having that great start I wanted.

Since all that, I have gotten much better.  I’m still not at a hundred percent, but it is a vast improvement.  And with everything that has gone on and is going on, especially with all the taxes Allie has to do, the timing couldn’t be any better as Allie and I will be retreating to Yosemite later today for a weekend romantic getaway to celebrate our one year anniversary!!  We haven’t been there since September, but of all the places we can vacation to, when it comes down to it, there’s no place better than Sweet Home California.  And for the occasion, there could be no better place to go, because it was at Yosemite last year on the 20^th where we confessed our love for one another.

It has become a definite notation that no matter how ugly this world can appear at the end of the road there is always something beautiful waiting.  It can be the simplest of things to something like a view of everything you would normally take for granted.  For me, the start of the New Year hasn’t particularly been a great one.  I’ve had my stress and was faced with ailments that made every day a struggle.  You’re always there for me and with me every step of the way no matter what.  And at the end of it all, the world couldn’t be anymore beautiful because I have you.

Tonight is the night Allie and I will be going on our second first date to celebrate the anniversary of the occasion.   And all the eager anticipation we have so painfully built up by going our separate ways for a full day will surely be rewarded in ways that will hopefully be describable like it were the first time.

While there are a few things to speculate about the upcoming events of this evening, the one matter that has me wondering about the most is when we do the retake of our first kiss while dancing to our unchained melody.  In the year’s time since Allie and I have met, we have already shared many lifetime’s worth of sweet, tender, and passionate kisses, but in comparison, almost all of them don’t quite touch the way our first kiss felt.  The only exception to the case would be that magical and endless moment when I proposed to Allie.  But I feel that if we can recapture that moment in time, then the unspoken words through a life-longed for embrace and real love’s first kiss will send the message to our hearts that this life, love, relationship, and soon-to-be marriage is meant to be.

I can’t really say if Allie is wondering the same thing.  We can’t exactly talk about the sweetest thing under the circumstances we’re role-playing.  But knowing my girl, she probably is and has.  On top of that, I’m betting she’s having a hard time with deciding the song she’s going to pick for our first dance that led to the meeting of our lips.  If she decides on keeping the choice original, she’ll choose “With Arms Wide Open” by Creed.  But if she decides on choosing the song she really wanted our first song and dance together to be to, then she’ll choose “The Woman in Me (Needs the Man in You)” by Shania Twain.  I guess time will tell, and she won’t really know or make that decision till we are at that moment.  Who knows, maybe she’ll pick a completely different song.

Compared to what I’m going through, Allie is actually handling this built up anticipation very well, but then she does have the distraction of work and our friends at her side.  And whenever we’ve talked on the phone, she’s been unusually giddy.  As for me, the night and morning hours felt endless as I tried to stay up.  Before, staying up like this wouldn’t be a problem.  But now, with the regularity in my sleep, it’s been absolutely hard.  I guess one can say I’m cured of my insomnia, though I’m still not sure what the cause was for it was to begin with, but I’ve got two really good guesses.  For most of the night, I spent it online.  Allie and I chatted over Windows Live Messenger for a bit till it was decided our chatting was against the very reasons we were doing this in the first place.  I should be thankful she didn’t use the Mac Laptop I have there; otherwise, with how naughty she was trying to be, the webcam would have been the end of me.  I also fiddled around on my website and on eBay for that time and even got to chatting with my brother who found me being online odd.  I told him what was going on and he just laughed in a good way telling me how Allie and I are definitely meant to be together.  My brother and I also got to talking about my Lancer he is now driving, which I gave him to use as his Birthday present.  For now, technically, the car is still mine.  I have yet to sign over ownership of the vehicle to him due to financial reasons on his end.  But we agreed that once he graduated UTI (Universal Technical Institute), gets a good paying career job, and can pay for the DMV registration fees and insurance for the car, then the car is his.  He remarked my Lancer is surprisingly fast for just being an SE and not an EVO.  Considering the money I put into it for modifications, tuning, and customs, it had better be.  But I reminded him to keep the racing and drifting to a minimum, particularly the racing.  I don’t mind him drifting, just as low as he changes out the set of wheels I have on it.  And as for the rest of the night, I fine-tuned my video gaming skills, mostly playing Super Smash Bros.  Allie and I have yet to unlock Luigi for the new cartridge we have of it, and quite frankly, I hate almost losing to her.  She almost always uses Pikachu when we play it, and every damn time I get schooled no matter who I use.  The only fighting chance I have against her is when I use Samus Aran.  And not to call it cheap, but when you lose persistently like I do when she uses Pikachu, it’s cheap, but skillful at the same time.  Allie does this 16-22 hit combo, though it’s more like 9, at best, plus 3, plus that 9 again, and then the smash.  And she plays Pikachu like the computer plays at Level 8 or better in VS mode.  So I spent a good time practicing against 3 Pikachus at different levels, and I’m quite confident I have a fighting chance now against her cheap combo. 

Well, with the hour fast approaching, it’s about time for me to start finishing up all the details here before I start getting ready for our date tonight, and it is sure to be a night tender passion, romance, and love as Allie and I reflect and rekindle the time our first date. 

The month of December has so far been promising, and by its end, with the celebration of the New Year, it will certainly have kept the promise of even more, as there is much to look forward to in our upcoming innocent days.

The events which took place last weekend are of the sort that I am sure many will never forget.  If I were to describe it all in one word, it would simply be ‘unforgettable.’  And for Allie and me, it was definitely an experience unlike any other, as our expectations for Saturday night went above and beyond what we had hoped for and our wildest imaginations.  Needless to say, our sweet Jamie’s Feature was undoubtedly a success.  She worked her body to “Free” at a whole new level to the likes I’ve never witnessed and to where all the girls there were feeling the affects, especially when Jamie hit the “Hey girls” notes to jaw-dropping precision.  Allie, above all, let me know just how extremely hot and bothered she became.  And it didn’t help any that whenever she was able to, Jamie made unmistakable messaged eye contact with all of us at our booth, despite us being all the way in the back and Jamie having to look past all those guys standing in front of her, while performing and lip-singing her song, which, too, was quite the thing.  “Free” is almost an all Japanese song, and only Jamie and those of us there who’ve helped her through it all understand the lyrics, and still, through the powerful combination of the music and Jamie’s dancing put together, she made it understandable and captivated everyone there.

However, what began as one girl’s night turned into a night for others.  And while the details were sketchy, it was agreed upon by Heather and Jamie, and Centerfolds’ Owner.  And before it was announced, Heather, in just her heels and panties, came to where Allie and I were sitting to let us know she was dedicating “this” to us, or, in her words, “I’m dedicating this to you two.”  She then walked up onto the stage with the Owner as he announced and showed her off, as an impromptu act, Heather would be Featuring at the top of the hour.  And all that occurred in just 5 five minutes after Jamie finished her Feature.  The announcement was both shocking and exciting at the same time.  Heather’s Feature is to the likes which cannot be compared to, and she only does it to one song.  Now, we’ve done and been through a lot with Heather, and Allie knows all too well her capabilities.  And yet, of everything those two have been through, this would be the first time Allie would get to experience Heather’s “Velveteen.”  And it would be Christy’s first time, as well.  But once realization hit, it soon became chaotic.

By that time, Jamie finally made her way out from the back only to be greeted by a score of customers wanting a lap dance from her, and Jenn and Kelly were back to working their charm along with the few other girls working that night.  It became the obvious notion that no thought was put into Heather’s decision.  But she went with the flow anyways, and ended up coming to us in a panic to help her get prepared in the 45 minutes she had.  And basically, she needed her song and the outfit to go with it, both of which presented a problem at first, at least in the sense of keeping to their originality.  Sparing the details, in that allotted time given we made it all work out.  It wasn’t quite to their original perfection, but it was good enough, particularly Heather’s improvised outfit that consisted of everything Allie wore that night with the addition of my black tie from the suit I always carry in whatever vehicle just in case.  And it’s a good thing those two are about the same size.

When 10 o’clock rolled by, all the lights dimmed, all the stage lights and overhead blue spotlights turned on, Heather came out from behind the curtain, and “Velveteen” started to play.  The unedited opening seconds threw Heather off by a small bit, but she soon got into her routine like she’s never lost a step in the near year since she last Featured.  She was also able to improvise on the spot new soft insanity for the content in the middle of the song, which was one of her biggest concerns.  But just like in the past, Heather’s performance was in every way magical, captivating, and fascinating.  Even sweet Jamie was in awe, as were Allie and Christy.  Allie’s reaction was more mixed, though.  There was no doubt she was enjoying herself and having a great time, but it was the difference in that deep affectionate look in her eyes and the way she nestled her warmth closer to me that spoke more than words and told me what she was really feeling.

We ended up leaving Centerfolds at around 11:30, because all the girls wanted to work a little extra more making sure they cleaned house.  And sure enough they did, as they earned a combined total equivalent to what Allie or I earn in an above average month.  The Owner/Manager of Centerfolds was extremely pleased with the business he received, and the girls were pleasantly happy with the extra cash they earned, especially Jamie, since it was her desire that spawned that night.  From there, we all decided it was best to go to Gold Country Casino for some possible dancing and definite drinking at either their Night Club or their Spirits Lounge.  As easy as that was decided, it became the wonder if Jamie would be allowed in since she’s not of the legal drinking age, and the possibility of her being noticed.  But if it didn’t work out there, we always had Feather Falls Casino to go to.

When we arrived, our admittance into the Spirit Lounge went without a hitch.  None of us were even carded.  I suppose it’s the fact that we go there so often with different people that we’re known by staff, and whoever is with us is presumably good to go in.  But then, Allie and I are always well accommodated and tended to as we are given and have the same status her parents have with the Casino.  And to top it, Jamie wasn’t recognized by Security or Management.  I reckon it was her new hair-do and color.  So there, we basically drank until it was time for them to stop serving alcohol, which was only about 45 minutes.  But it was enough time to work on a good buzz.  No one danced, unfortunately, not even my dancing queen.

Afterwards, with Christy having to work, we dropped her off at her house.  And because we wanted to drink more, we ended up going back down the hill to Mom and Dad’s house, instead of our own, as there is never a short of booze.  And after several bottles and shots, it became there where it all transpired and the night was truly made ‘unforgettable.’

As for today, Allie and I have spent it all at home resting and relaxing.  Allie has mostly been sleeping, though, like she is now, as she’s not feeling all too well.  It was her decision for us not to go to work today, and despite us having equality within the Company, she’s technically the boss of me.  It wouldn’t have mattered if we went to work any ways.  It’s early month and around this time, there’s little that we can actually do.  Plus, if there were any paperwork and signing for us to do, we could have done it through our home fax line.

Today also happens to be my brother’s 20^th Birthday.  Nothing was said to be going on, so we kept to just calling Stephen wishing him the best.  And instead of Allie and me driving down there, he’ll be coming up Sunday to pick up Jona who’ll be visiting with my mom for the weekend.  So we’ll most likely be going out then to celebrate his birthday.  I gave my mom a Franklin to drop off to Stephen as some birthday money while she would be down there picking up my sister.  Cash, or get-by money, was all he said he wanted this year when I chatted with him two nights ago, because he’s gotten really low on reserves since he quit his job two months ago.  But as for a real gift, I’m not really sure yet.  Allie thinks we should just give him my ’05 Lancer since neither of us drives it anymore, and we know Stephen could use the set of very reliable wheels.  She’s definitely got a point, but then, the same could be said about her ’03 Lexus.  I guess we’ll have to see come this Sunday.

But as good as it has been so far, and the Sunday we have to look forward to, the real promises of this month happens next week, because it was on the 11^th and 13^th of last year that Allie and I first met and went on our first date.  And to top those events, it’s going to be Allie’s 23^rd Birthday next Saturday.  We’re still unsure what we’re going to do on the 11^th, because we can’t exactly role-play our fortunate meeting at the Post Office and our phone calls that night like it were the first time, and it would be hard to do without her mom, as she played a big role that day for us.  So we still have that to plan, which we’ll probably end up doing at the last minute.

However, for the 13^th, we’ve got it all worked out and planned.  And I can only imagine what we’ll have to endure when we go our separate ways on Wednesday after work up until we meet the next night when she picks me up for our date.  For her, it might not be so difficult, but for me, at her request and to keep a certain authenticity, it will be excruciatingly hard as I won’t be sleeping in that time we are separate.  In essence, we’re going to relive our first date almost exactly like the way it happened: she’ll pick me up in her Lexus at the same late time she did, we’ll go out to dinner at Gold Country Casino ordering the same meals, we’ll wear the same clothes, play the same slot machine, and so on.  And for that time only, we’ll even be without our rings.  The only differences this time rests in Allie’s decision to choose the song we first danced to or the song she really wanted our first dance to be to, and there won’t be a twist or surprise guest at the end of the night when we retreat to her parent’s house.  Overall, it will be a night of old memories revisited and new memories created that we won’t ever forget.

With the day after being when we have to pick up her parents at the airport, and the following day being Allie’s Birthday, there certainly is much to look forward to next week alone.  And with Christmas and New Year’s Celebration just around the corner, the near future ahead of our life and love together is sure to be filled with memorable and cherished promise.

After a long and busy day at work that started earlier and ended later than the usual, I can smile contently as we all look forward to the promising and sure to be memorable weekend ahead of us.  It certainly has taken a lot of combined efforts and time to make this happen, and now it will all come down to five minutes on Saturday with one girl and one song, as our dear Jamie debuts and performs at Chico’s now controversial Centerfolds to Namie Amuro’s “Free.”

It began three weeks ago, when a whole bunch of us went on a fun night out.  We were on the way to Centerfolds as wanted to by the girls to check out the ‘new local talent’ before going to the Crazy Horse and in the car with Allie and I were Christy, Heather, and Jamie, with everyone else riding with Jessica in dad’s ‘Bad H2.’  Heather was talking about the place to Jamie, as this would be her first time going there, and how it is actually a great place to make good money, especially if you’re a “Featured Girl.”  I had on a couple of mixed CD at the time, and Ilaria Graziano’s “Velveteen” randomly played.  Heather then started telling Jamie about when we were together, “Velveteen” was the only song she featured to, which, whenever she performed, particularly the first time, pulled in the most money for that Club’s Feature.  Despite doing well after all the warmth, care, and support that Allie, myself, and the girls have given her, Jamie was intrigued by the idea of it all, and the fact that if she could make that much money in that short of time, she’d be able to buy a car of her own.  Of course, being the awesome idea that it is, the last thing anyone would want for Jamie is for her to get up in that Club’s controversy, especially since those were the ways and the lifestyle we pulled her out of.  So it was definitely something to really think about.

When we got there, I straight up told Jenn and Kelly about it, who, too, immediately showed concern.  I understand the want for money to get a new car, but the risk afterwards kept outweighing everything.  So while inside, and enjoying a few drinks, we discussed the matter as Jamie was honestly serious about working there.  And it became quite the scene when the Owner/Manager came to our booth to visit, and basically catch the interest of Heather, Jenn, and Kelly, his three former finest, to work a few nights to help pick up business.  With those who were working there that night, it was clear to see why.  With the “We’ll see” responses he was given from the girls, his attention went to Jamie and only Jamie, as he knows fully well the standpoint on everyone else.  With his eyes feasting on Jamie, the girls and I started negotiating on her behalf, finally coming to an unheard of settled and stipulated agreement.  So from there and happening this weekend, Centerfolds will Feature for the first and only time an unknown talent where Jamie will get to keep every dollar from her Feature performance on a detailed basis that involves her, Heather, Jenn and Kelly all working together that same night for two hours afterwards with a high cut going towards the girls for their time, with everyone doing there part in the promotional runs.  The negotiation that favored the girls was a jaw-dropper considering the deals he gives his regular employees.  And even though they said they didn’t mind it, much appreciation goes to Heather, Jenn, and Kelly for helping their sister in need.

The two hours is really nothing compared to Jamie’s Feature, and that has been where a lot of attention has been on.  But before anything could really happen, she needed a song.  In my honest opinion, there is no better song out there to perform to and bank the most on than Ilaria Graziano’s “Velveteen.”  Heather is the proof of that.  I remember the first time she performed to it.  She made men melt and empty their wallets with her unforgettable routine.  However, “Velveteen” is strictly off limits.  The song for Jamie, though, came rather easy, and it was actually Allie’s pick and recommendation.  The obvious aim for a song is for it to be felt, because if one can feel the song, then you’ve captured them to feeling you and your every movement.  Even from a spectator’s point of view, that’s essentially what you’re looking for.  And the song of choice for Jamie is Namie Amuro’s “Free.”  And really, there couldn’t be a better song for Jamie as there is a lot of symbolism involved with her past put into consideration.  It’s definitely more upbeat than “Velveteen,” and the chorus proved to be challenging, but after having my cousin edit the song a bit and seeing Jamie work the routine many times over to perfection, it’s got it all.  And on top of that, we got Jamie’s hair colored to dark brown adding more sexuality and giving her more of that exotic look and feel to fit her “Free” performance. 

There is absolutely no doubt Jamie will be getting a lot of what she’s been wanting this coming Saturday when she Features and performs.  And at a personal level, she’ll be receiving even more.  Allie, myself, and all those close to Jamie have a lot of faith and see so much promise in her as a person, but mostly as a friend you can truly cherish dearly.  And there really is no reason for her to be doubted anymore.  She’s a changed woman.  The smile she now gives, that changed look in her eyes, and the care in her touch reflect that.  Everyone at one point comes across a past that is hard to escape.  But as long as you really believe in yourself, and have people believe in you, there is always a way.  And after this weekend, Jamie will surely know once more what it is to live a life feeling free.

The day after tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and never before have I felt so much joy and excitement towards the Holiday, as this will be our very first of many Thanksgivings together.  And to put even more emphasis on the event, this year’s gathering will be hosted by me and Allie.

With the rest of the week off, today, Allie and I did the bulk of the grocery shopping going to several and different chains depending on what we needed.  And once we got to shopping, it became clear in our heads as to what we would be making other the traditional Thanksgiving dishes.  We’re particularly excited about the cooking, but also nervous, as these will all be new dishes for us.  For one of the dishes I’m making, I’m just hoping I bought enough salmon fillets.  We’ve got a strong handle on everything though.  We took everything to her parent’s house, as that will be where Thanksgiving will be, and it would just save time, plus, they’ve got a lot of room for all the groceries we bought.  And as a bit of relaxation and reward, Allie and I soaked up in the Jacuzzi afterwards.

As far as we know, Thanksgiving will be the best gathering so far of everyone special in our life together, from family to close friends, and even our pets.  We’re expecting a great turnout.  I was even told by my mom that my Uncle and his family would be coming up to spend Thanksgiving with us.  But there is still that question of whether my brother and sister will be coming up.  They should be with the arrangement made between our mother and their father.  But understandably so, they are grown-up now and have their significant others and their families to be with.  It would still be great though if they came up, even if it weren’t for that long.  After all, I’m very sure our mom would really love that, and they’re my siblings and Allie’s soon to be.  And unless we drive down there, we hardly see them.  And to give my siblings even more of a role, Stephen is my Best Man, and Jona is one of Allie’s Bridesmaids.  Their other halves have a role in our wedding as well, especially Stephen’s long-time girlfriend, who will be playing Pachelbel’s “Canon” in D Major or C Minor (I don’t remember) and Yui Horie’s “Yakusoku” on the grand piano we’re renting.  And it, too, would be nice if they came up.  I suppose the issue of them coming up will be a matter we will have to see through up to the last moment.  We just hope they do make it.

For tomorrow, we have quite the tedious schedule ahead of us after we wake up from what I’m sure will be us sleeping in.  We have to tend to our pets, giving two of our Chihuahuas, Namie, or Nanako, we call her both, and Tinker a bath as they will be in attendance throughout the occasion.  I’m also going to pack up a few sources of entertainment, particularly our PlayStation 2 and 3, Nintendo Wii, and all the games and accessories we have to go with those, to hook up in the Entertainment Room at her parents.  I have a feeling no one will be playing Dance Dance Revolution, though after all the food that will be eaten.  But we’ll see.  Afterwards, we have to drop off food and clothing to the homeless shelter near downtown.  Then it’s off to Wal-Mart to get a few provisions, particularly festive candles and more pillows, as there is a short of those at Scott and Jessica’s, where we would be going to after to prep all the food for the day after, with the possibility of us spending the night in our room there so we could just get an early start on Thanksgiving.

Overall, it’s just an exciting time in our lives.  And as I reflect back over the past year and what I was doing last year for Thanksgiving, I can definitely look back at that with an overwhelming smile at the very thought of how far I’ve come along, and I can surely look to my side with a feeling of love unlike any other as I give my thanks the day after tomorrow.

It was my youngest sister’s 7^th birthday today.  Unlike the party and gathering my other sister had for her birthday a month back, Tori’s party was kept minimal with only certain people being invited.  But as small as it was, it was turned out meaningfully well.

The day started out like most.  Allie and I woke up at 6:36 to her still annoying as ever Sponge-Bob alarm clock, and proceeded to get ready for work with a nice hot morning shower together.  We shared a few cups of coffee afterwards while we finished getting ready, and by eight o’clock we were out the door.

When we arrived at the Office, we were greeted by our Receptionist, the donuts she said she would bring in, and the usual fresh brewed pot of coffee.  Soon after we arrived, so did Allie’s father, along with everyone else with the exception of dear Larae who has been on vacation all week.  Aside from our usual tasks, work for Allie and I was laid back.  It typically is every mid-month, unless Scott is out of town or he gives us a development project to manage and work on.  It will pick up though once we near the end of the month, especially with her parents leaving for Dubai after Thanksgiving, which allows us to have all but Monday off next week.  So for the better part of the day we did as we pleased, calling my mother every now and then to work out something for my sister’s birthday, basically taking charge to help out and so my mom could get some rest before Tori got home from school as she works the graveyard shift.

For lunch, Allie and I went to the Chico Mall where we met up with her mom to shop for birthday presents for my youngest sister.  It actually became quite the task figuring out what to get her, and with the lack of help that Allie got when she called my mom for shopping hints, the three of us ended up getting whatever we saw fit for a 7-year old and gift wrapping supplies.  We ended up eating Burger King at the Food Court in the mall as our lunch, and soon after, we went back to the Office.

While I called in the orders for a cake, a dozen balloons, and Chinese Food for dinner from Tong Fong Low in downtown Oroville, Allie and her mom took care of wrapping all the presents.  I, also, got to calling a few friends of ours based on availability and whether my mom and sister know them, so there would be more people there, but when it came down to it, only Christy was available.  With the numbers from my mom, and our numbers, we were looking at around 15 people, and I began to wonder if my order of Chinese Food was enough.  I thought it was a lot, especially with the side orders, but as pointed out by my dearest, we needed more variety.  So she made the suggestion of getting fried chicken from Raley’s since we were going there anyways for the cake and balloons, and a family-sized pizza from Papa Murphy’s, which all worked.  Allie’s mom left once all the presents were done to get back to her Boutique, which was fine since we’d be seeing her and dad later on.

When 4 o’clock rolled by, Allie’s dad basically told us we could leave and that we could have done so hours ago if we wanted to.  So we headed out, telling Scott we’d see him later with mom at my mom’s house.  Since we didn’t expect to leave early, we called Tong Fong Low’s to start the order a little sooner.  On the way back to Oroville, Christy called us asking what to get my sister.  And from the list Allie told her we got, Christy concluded on getting Tori a few new DVDs.  My mom called as well wondering what time we would be there.

We got to my mom’s house at 5:30 just as we told her and already there were my Uncle, who lives with my mom, his co-worker, and my aunt along with her husband and two teenage kids.  She’s not really my aunt, but I call her that as a traditional Filipino custom or formality, so to speak.  We brought in all the food first, and Allie helped my mom with those in the kitchen while I brought everything else in bringing delight to Tori’s face at the sight of more presents and the balloons.  And just as dinner was to start, Christy pulled into the driveway followed by Allie’s parents.  Tori greeted her soon-to-be Aunt and Uncle, and Christy at the door with that same delighted face towards even more gifts.  And it was strange that for just us there, my sister sure had a good number of presents.  Aside from the gift bag, Christy also brought some cookies and cupcakes, and I got to thinking, “Great, that’s all she needs, lots of sugar.”  But with everyone expected there, and the pizza done, we started dinner.

It’s such an amazing thing how Allie and I can never grow tired of eating quality-cooked Chinese Food, because we had it yesterday for lunch.  But dinner became quite the chat session with everyone talking here and there.  It was really rather social.   And of course, the birthday girl was just having fun no matter who was talking or what was going on.  Afterwards, we all had cake and ice cream and the desserts Christy brought.  And if I saw it correctly, I believe Tori forgot to make a wish when she blew out the candles on her cake.  I think she was just being eager to open all her presents, which was what she ended up doing after she had her doses of sweets.  She opened gift after gift, giving thanks with each one.  But she became fixated with each gift that she had to be reminded to open the others.  Needless to say, she really liked each one, including the clothes and accessories, which seemed a bit weird, but maybe it’s a girl thing.

Once all the presents were open, my aunt and company left because her kids had homework and chores to do as she said, and so did my Uncle’s co-worker, leaving the greater part of us to discuss plans for Thanksgiving, while Christy and Tori started to watch the Shrek 3 DVD Christy got her as Tori better got into her gifts with Christy there to aid her.  There really wasn’t much to discuss about Thanksgiving though, at least not from me and Allie, because the only thing we really spoke up on was we’re not having it at our house.  It would just be too small.  So, all the decisions came fairly easy.  Allie and I would host our first Thanksgiving together at her parent’s house with us doing most of the cooking, with our mom’s making a few specialty dishes themselves to represent the combining of our two families.  Basically, my mom is going to make a few Filipino favorites, and Jessica is going to make a few Italian favorites, with Allie and me making everything else.  It will definitely be interesting for the two of us in the kitchen, because of our cooking specialties.  So taking it back to Thanksgiving basics may be a challenge.  But how hard can a few dishes be? 

After that discussion, Scott and Jessica left for home, and I hopped onto my laptop to get some hobby work done while Allie and I tried to plan out what we would be preparing for Thanksgiving.  Aside from the usual Thanksgiving dishes, the planning didn’t work out as expected.  It’s just not our style.  But we figured we’d know once we do all the grocery shopping next week.  At the kitchen table, my mom joined us to play catch up.  Despite living in the same town, we don’t see or call her as much as we should be.  I’m not sure why that is.  We were also well thanked for taking care of almost everything for Tori’s birthday, and for not splurging on gifts.  On that note, I simply asked my mom what was really up.  And so before Allie and me, she told us what was going on and how she wasn’t pleased with her financial situation of living paycheck by paycheck (though a bit more detailed with the reasons why she’s in such a predicament), which in turn affects Tori and makes securing my youngest future a bit difficult.  So we talked it, and thought about it, trying to find a good means of solution to help my mom and youngest sister.  And when I thought about it more carefully, it was actually more about my youngest sister, because there’s never been a similar time before when she asked for some money, even if it was just for gas money.  Like just a few weeks ago, I gave my mom the money to buy a new laptop and all she did was asked.  So it’s never an issue.  Since Allie and I didn’t have much cash on us, Allie wrote her a check.  But for Tori’s future, the question of how to do it without blatantly doing it was the real issue for us.

The solution turned out to be on my laptop screen and my addicting hobby as Allie pointed out and commented on in various ways.  We quickly worked out the numbers and found that I earn $25 as a daily average on eBay, which in turn works out to be just as much as one’s minimum wage earnings for a 30 hour week or how much Allie and I make each for just 20 minutes of work.  And on average, 15% of sales are paid via Check or Money Order with the rest being paid via Merchant or PayPal.  And since Allie manages all our finances and banking and more, those checks and money orders that come in are small time and not really worth the effort of going to the bank for.  So instead of dealing with those payments, it became decided that they would simply go to Tori and be made out to her as a way to continually build her savings.  And with a quick edit, I changed my eBay payment information to be made out to my youngest sister.  With that incentive in place, I now have a decent reason to keep up with my hobby.  And with everything all said and done, the Shrek movie being over, and Tori having to go to bed soon, Allie, Christy and I left for home saying our good-byes and again wishing my sister a Happy Birthday.

Christy ended up coming home with us, which I don’t recall how that happened despite being only a few hours ago.  Allie and I didn’t mind it, though.  Plus with her situation, it’s become quite understandable even without her saying a word.  As I speak, the two are in bed sleeping together and that’s got me wondering even more now about our dearest Christina.  But I'm sure the winds of time will reveal everything and whatever happens or is decided will be for the best in the future that lies ahead of us.

Allie is due home soon, and I’m very happy about that.  What turned into a Girl’s Night Out last night turned into a Girl’s Day Out today.  But as long as she’s having a good time and is safe, then that’s all that really matters.  And with the company of our nearest and dearest with her, that’s always a certainty.  She’s definitely going to get it though when she comes home, and she knows it.

As for my night and day alone, I really didn’t do much.  Most of my time was spent online shopping, YouTubing, and chatting with acquaintances that I have not been able to chat with in ages.  It was quite uneventful, and I easily grew bored of YouTube after the 6th hour or so.  I played a few hours of video games on our Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii, after which, I just settled in bed playing SOCOM on my PSP.  I tried not falling asleep, so by the time Allie would come home, I’d be at a certain point.  But I ended up sleeping some 2 hours.  Luckily, she called waking me up.  So I think I should still be good, I hope.

It has been nine months and a few days now that we have been together.  And while I know the feelings are mutual, every moment since the beginning have truly been the best times of my life.  Each day passed has always been a new dance in our life together.  And with the passing of more days in the lifetime ahead of us, I can only imagine what new dances lie in wait for the two of us to have. 

At the beginning of our weekend, Allie and I made no real plans or gave much thought to what we should do for our nine month anniversary.  I suppose the way we spent our last two monthly anniversaries and the days they fell under made us expect a bit of regularity to how we should celebrate the occasion.  So with several of Allie’s bridesmaids and a few close friends, we spent that Friday night in the comfort of our home, watching Transformers and half of Most Haunted Live, drinking margaritas and other mixed drinks, and making the best of our night in.  Comparing the evening to how we all would usually spend it, the night in its sweet simplicity was equally fun.

The following morning, after sleeping in a bit, we greeted each other with the praises of “Happy 9 months.”  And for awhile, even with the company that decided to sleep over, Allie and I simply stayed in bed cuddled under the covers talking about whatever came to mind.  During that time, her parents called to check up on our plans for the day and to see how work went the day before as they are both vacationing in Vegas and won’t be returning until the beginning of November which, as usual, leaves Allie and I in charge of everything.  After we got off the phone with them, the girls walked into our room and literally got into bed with us and started poking around with the question of “what are you two lovebirds doing today,” and basically telling us to get dressed and get out of bed.  We still weren’t sure at that moment, even with the given knowledge that whatever we were to do, it would just be Allie and I this time.  But then, out nowhere, Allie rolled onto me transitioning into a cowgirl position, clasped her fingers into mine bringing my hands to press against her chest, and with a confident look, she told me, “Let’s go to Frisco.”  And just like that, it was decided my girl and I would spend the rest of our day together out of town and in the big city.

With the decision made, we finally got out of bed and dressed a bit to see Jenn and Kelly off to work.  Christy stayed to feed our pets and take care of things around the house since she didn’t have to work till later that day and she is usually the one who watches over our place whenever we go away and she can’t make it.  That allowed us to have a head start and focus more of our attention on packing the necessities and extra clothing we would need, showering, getting ready, and getting on the road as soon as possible.  While showering, Allie made the suggestion of using one her parent’s vehicles instead of one of ours so we could really drive in luxury and to just have that comforting sense of something different.  Since we always have the permission to, with the exception of one her dad’s cars, and with it being our day, I had no reason to go against Allie’s suggestion.  Plus, the idea of change was really nice.  So, once we were all set to go, we said our good-byes to Christy, and headed out to mom and dad’s house to swap out our ride.  With the H2 being what her parents used to go to Vegas, it left us with three actual options, and since it was just the two of us, mother’s Z4 was the perfect car for us to use.

The drive to San Francisco took us a little over two hours to make and Allie practically sped the whole way.  She was extremely comfortable behind the wheel and driving her mom’s car for what it is.  I would be the same way, too, but I am still not up to par with driving how I used to before our accident.  I still have my nervousness behind the wheel, and Allie has done almost all the driving between us ever since the accident last month that totaled our new car.  While she drove, I called in our last minute reservations for us to stay at the Sheraton Hotel by Fisherman’s Wharf, where we’ve stayed twice before.  Once was on purpose, and the other time was out of convenience.  Plus, and thanks Allie’s dad, we get extra benefits and earn rewards for staying at certain hotels, and the Sheraton is one of them.  And even though it was last minute and we were only staying there a night, I still talked my way into getting us their Romantic Getaway Package.  Along with that, even with Allie next to me, I was able to work out a request and additional surprises for when we arrive by text messaging the receptionist and deleting that text after with Allie hearing all about it, but not knowing exactly what that surprise would be.  That bugged her quite a bit, because we didn’t have gifts for each other and she saw my action as “not fair,” and she swore some type of retribution.  But behind her changing faces of glares and pouting, I knew she was really smiling and excited for the surprise I had in store for her.

Arriving at the Sheraton, the Valet Parking Attendant took care of parking mom’s Z4, while we went to check-in.  I forgot the receptionist’s name that took our reservation, but by chance, she turned out to be the one checking us in and she recognized my name.  Realizing who I was, her look moved to Allie who was standing next to me.  With the lighting in the lobby, I saw Allie’s Engagement Ring in the reflection of the receptionist’s glasses, and I wondered if she saw it as well from her better perspective.  And, I suppose, in an amazed way, she remarked on how “one lucky girl” she is.  Allie began to blush, and she responded by nudging my shoulder with hers.  Fully checked in and with our keycards in hand, Francis, the receptionist, called the Manager to the front desk and pulled me aside away from Allie.  It was in regards to the obvious, and I grew concerned about my requests being a bit too much for the less than two hours they had to prepare the room.  With the Manager present, what I was told really wasn’t that bad, and was actually good enough, as their selection compared to what I requested is the next best thing.

When we got to our room on the 5^th floor, I opened the door telling Allie once more, “Happy 9 months,” kissing her afterwards.  I then took her hand and walked her in.  As I requested, the window curtains were open, which I already could tell would light Allie’s surprise with much delight.  She knew about and expected the bottle of sparkling wine and the chocolates that would be on the bed, but never came close to expecting everything else that simply took her breath away.  Overwhelmed, she held my hand tighter, as she took in the sight of our bed elegantly covered in red and white rose petals with nine long-stem Candia roses neatly laid out at the foot of it.  For a bit, she was at a lost for words, but her tears of happiness spoke her real reaction.  After expressing her endearing words and embracing me in her affection, she sat at the foot of the bed gathering the Candia roses to absorb their fragrance.  Like every special item between us, she made a lot of emphasis of keeping the roses and taking them home to add them in the glass cabinet display that is basically all about us.  And even though they weren’t Fire & Ice, our favorite and symbolic rose together, she loved the Candia roses just as much.  However, the Fire & Ice rose petals scattered on the bed made up for that.  And after setting the roses on the nightstand, she took off her clothes to lay and indulge in their silky feeling, while I took care of our bubbly.  We toasted, and drank, Allie ate the chocolates, and after the first glass I began to get comfortable in bed, as well, at Allie’s suggestive request.  And so, one glass led to another till we finished the bottle, just as one kiss led to more …

Three hours later, we found ourselves getting ready all over again just as we did earlier that day.  We made quite the mess out of each other, and I think the only things that didn’t get messed up were all of Allie’s eye make-up.  I didn’t mind Allie’s hair though.  I find it to be at its sexiest when it is all natural, much like how it is every morning when she wakes up.  She disagrees about that and just calls me a “weirdo” for thinking such a silly thing.  So we showered, got dressed in our clubbing attire, and basically, I GQed and Allie Allured.  And soon after, we were out the door and out of the hotel for the night ahead of us.

Our first stop was to find food, because we really built up an appetite.  And with Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf some 3 blocks away from the hotel, the solution to our hunger wouldn’t be a problem.  However, we didn’t go there, at least not yet.  Instead, I hailed us a cab with our destination being the Mel’s Drive-In, on Lombard about a mile away, who absolutely has the best seasoned curly fries.  I wanted that, and above my craving, I wanted Allie to have it as well, because for all her years living throughout the Bay Area and the year she lived in San Francisco while she was going to the University, she’s never had Mel’s before.  And I just love it when she makes that priceless expression on her face when her mouth orgasms at the taste of something so good, and I was certain Mel’s seasoned curly fries would do that.  And sure enough, after the short ride there, we got our orders of fries and she made that expression, and truthfully, I made a similar expression as well.

After Mel’s, we made the walk downhill towards Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39.  As seafood lovers, it was a heaven for us.  We went from one eatery to another, sharing our simple orders.  You just can’t eat at one place and expect to get full there.  You got to have a lot of variety and that’s what we did, without getting messy.   We practically had it all and all cooked in a variety of ways.  And it was all so good, especially the Shooters and when we got that bucketful of oysters.  It was like one orgasm right after another.  And I was really getting turned on with Allie constantly going off, making those noises and facial expressions.

When we were done eating, we were back where we started.  We found it still early to go to the club, but the night was definitely upon us.  While uncertain what to do in the meantime, we knew we wanted to get a bit more drinks in us.  So, instead of buying a 6-pack, a 40, or a bottle at one of the convenient stores/souvenir shops there, we went back to our hotel hand in hand, and hit their bar ordering a shot each of Hennessey with a bottle of Smirnoff Ice Green Apple for Allie and a regular Smirnoff Ice for me.  And without any downtime, the moment we got our drinks we knew and agreed on just where to go and what to do to kill an hour’s time.  So we downed our drinks and because we were down in cash, and mostly sporting small bills, we hit the ATM in the hotel lobby getting the maximum daily limit on two of our accounts.  And because Jacksons weren’t really ideal, we went to the front desk breaking two hundred’s worth of them into Lincolns and Washingtons.  Getting our car from valet, I made the call to my cousin for the parking and dance club hookup.  Parking is always a pain in the city, and through a friend, he was able to hook us up with free parking at the parking garage across from where we were going.  He tripped for a bit when I told him what we were driving, but we were all set on both accounts when he called back, and I got his friend’s number for the parking who was working that night so he’d know to let us in.  And the same hookup was made with his friend who works the door and security at the dance club we were going to.

Before we went on our way, Allie brought down the top of the car to expose us to the cool city air, the city lights, and the city night life.  But what she was really doing was showing off, and I called her out on that.  Her response was so good and immediate that I couldn’t help but feel really proud of her.  We took the easy route of using the Embarcadero, and at one of the lights we pulled up next to a tuned ’07 Dodge Charger.  Up front were two guys and in the back, two girls.  And we have no clue what instigated it, but they revved their engine, and the girls in the back were actually taunting us telling us we’re going to lose.  We had no clue what they were thinking, because it’s the Embarcadero.  There’s a stop light on every block that you’re almost always going to hit.  Allie went for it anyways, and showed her seriousness by taking off her heels and revving back.  She wanted to shut them up and put them in their place, and I had absolutely no doubt in my mind that she would in her mom’s Z4.  And at every light we had to stop, she did just that until we turned onto Broadway.  At the turn to the parking garage, guys in line to the fine establishment we were going to began hollering at Allie even in my presence.  Considering the demeanor of the place and it being Broadway Street, it was quite complementing, but all things considered, it was more so laughable.  Still at a rush from her schooling, Allie peeled out at the light when it turned green, after which, we pulled into the back entrance of the parking garage where I called my cousin’s friend to inform him we were there and to let us in.  I don’t know the guy, and we only met him once before, so we left it at that.  And after parking our car, we found ourselves across the street and at the doors of Deja Vu Centerfolds.

Whereas others were waiting in line to get in, Allie and I walked past them all and got in just like that, which again made the sight of all the guys in line laughable.  There, we are always our own hookups and we never have to pay their cover charge.  Inside, we walked the top floor checking out all the action in all the rooms, and there were just girls everywhere with hordes of men being typical men around them especially around the main stage.  It was really going on in there, with the exception of the theater room, and it was actually hard to find a place to sit down, get comfortable, and enjoy.  But we did, downstairs in the stage room right below the VIP Lounge.  It became noticeable to us the lack of female customers, and because of that, Allie and I became the immediate targets to two of the girls, which then turned into four once it was seen that we weren’t their usual dollar customers.  Three of the girls looked extremely sexy, particularly the Asian one who Allie somewhat kept to herself to awhile.  Though it very well could have been the other way around, where the Asian girl was keeping Allie to herself.  One thing was certain, every time I turned to look at them; the Asian girl was going above and beyond to work Allie up.  The fourth girl was almost cute all around, but her implants just weren’t appealing.  But after our lap dances, it became with those three Allie decided to take with us to a private cabana, where behind closed curtains and for the rest of our time there, we were given a more private and intimate show.  And there, with her devious and cunning persuasion, Allie got her retribution much to her intensely hot pleasure, and mine.

Afterwards, like planned, we went over to Swing.  And in a non-joking way, when we parked, I was asked for a napkin.  So while Allie cleaned up, I put back up the top and called my cousin’s friend to give him a heads up.  He hit us right on the money when he asked if we were the Black Z4.  Leaving what we didn’t need behind, he met us at the door.  It was Latin Night, and there was a line of a dozen people that grew by the minute.  He told us to wait a bit before letting us in, so we kept to small talk until the coast was clear and he let us in the back entrance that takes you upstairs.  The first two rooms are always the least busy, but going down the stairs that led us to the Hip-Hop room, it was clear to see that business was really starting to pick.  Basically, we came at a perfect time.  But before we were to “Get it the Dance Floor,” we hit their bar for a refill or perk this time ordering a shot each of Vodka with Hennessey as our chaser.  Considering the prices of alcohol there, shots are the way to go.  Afterwards, it got hot and heavy pretty fast when we started dancing.  Feeling it, Allie dragged me to the small stage they have there where she got on and started dancing, lip-singing, and working the pole for me to the songs of “Party like a Rock Star” that was immediately followed by “Get it on the Dance Floor.”   For a minute, I had a bit of concern because of what she wasn’t wearing under that mini-skirt.  If I could see it, I know others would and whoever it was, they did, because they made it rain.  I’m a bit possessive and very protective and I would normally have found the guy or guys and beat their asses, but Allie answered the gesture herself by kicking the money back in the guys face which got him and his two buddies kicked out, and my concern turned to fun once again just seeing her having a good time up there in front of everyone and me.    However, when it was “Get it on the Dance Floor,” two other girls joined her on stage, one of who looked eerily much like our Jamie.  And it was her that started dancing with Allie on the pole, and Allie started dancing back.  And just like that, though strangers, they were dancing in sync like it was routine and even got to freaking up on each other.  It was absolutely, beautifully amazing, especially when they kissed before Allie got off the stage.  She ran up to me all jumpy, happy, and sweaty around her chest, asking me how I thought she did, telling me she was feeling a certain way again, and that she wanted another drink.  So we got another shot each of Cognac, and headed back on the dance floor.  We danced for another hour or so, and by that time, the dance floor was so packed that there was no room to “Soldier Boy,” “Shoulda Lean,” “Lean Like a Cholo,” “One, Two Step,” or any room for Allie to “Get Low,” if you get the picture.  So Allie and I were basically left to freaking up on each other, and if there were to be any proof to what she told me earlier, she clearly made it on my thigh, because it was wet from all the riding up she was doing.  So in her mom’s car, before heading back to our hotel, we started to get playful with each other until she couldn’t take my teases anymore.  She wanted hers, and she crawled over the shifter and straddled me to get it.

When we got back to the hotel, I was definitely light-headed and starting to feel tipsy.  I wasn’t so sure about Allie, but she made the drive back, which was a good indication.  We had about 10 minutes before last call, so we hit the bar again to get in one last Smirnoff Ice.  But before that, we went to the front desk to get Room Service to have a bottle of wine, and, at Allie’s request, more chocolates sent up to our room, so we would be all set for the rest of the night when we were done at the bar.  And it was in our room where we concluded the celebration of our nine month anniversary of being together, by drinking wine, eating your chocolates, and eventually making love once more to the simple sounds and sweet songs ever with you.

(Originally blogged on October 26th)