busy bee week

Reading over microbiology and all the food borne illnesses you can get didn't gross me out at all. 

We had African food tonight & it was amazing. 

That is all. 

I'm disappointed in my post today too but studying & spending time with my hubs is more important! I will return back to the blogging world soon! 

Oliver (twist)

It was like love at first sight. Ryan and I like to go to local pet stores on random off days to play with the puppies...since we know a lot of them just get stuck in their cage all day everyday. We've done it more than a dozen times & have not once purchased an animal. Well this day was different. 

We went a pet store near our home and did the routine thing...looked through at each dog, gawked at how cute all of them were, and chose one to play with. We chose a St Bernard! I've always wanted a big dog and St Bernards are adorable BIG puppies. She was a crazy feisty one that cost nearly $2,000. We played with her for 15 minutes then proceeded to tour around the store looking at all the other animals from reptiles, kittens, and even a huge aquarium with fresh and salt water fish.

Then I saw him. Being dragged across the room by a girl who I judged to be the typical "purse dog" kinda girl. (Excuse my stereotype...) Designer LV handbag, caribou coffee in hand, lots of makeup, fur vest, and 6 inch heels...while being strikingly beautiful with the most annoying Valley Girl voice. She wanted to buy him because he was cute but probably mainly because he was a "discount puppy". He was only $200 compared to all the prissy dogs that were anywhere from $1,500 and up! She decided to buy him but he wasn't moving.

The day we brought him home :)

She kept dragging him across the laminate floor while he stood his ground and wouldn't move any of his extremities. I heard him start to whimper and shake ferociously as she began to get impatient. Then I did what I had to do...I had to save him. 

If she doesn't end up taking him, we will! As I whispered into one of the employees there all behind Ryan's back. The employees at this store really do care deeply for each animal and actually spend time with each one taking them on walks...very atypical of most pet stores I've been to. So they observed how mistreated he already was due to the enticing price tag.

He got acquainted with Delilah.

Why don't we find a dog more suitable for you? This one just doesn't seem like it fits you. I overheard one of the employees say this to the Valley Girl. She agreed immediately and stammered out of the store upset. The employee then proceeded to bring us our dog. Ryan's eyes got big...like real big. He wasn't too happy with me at the moment...mainly because he is such a softy when it comes to animals especially abused ones.

As soon as Ryan took him into his arms, he stopped shaking after about 2 minutes and started wagging his tail (or what's left of it), and started sticking out his tongue. Wow! We've never ever seen him like this with anyone! He's been here for a while and we discounted him so that people would take some interest in him but we've found that no owner has been suitable enough for him yet! We've even named him "Shakey" because that's all he does! 

I knew Ryan fell in love...even though he was attempting to give me dirty looks that he was upset at me. I knew it. He fell in love with him as quickly as I did. Let's name him, Oliver. Like the orphan from the musical!  Babe- this is your fault if this turns out to be a HUGE mistake. You better help me take care of him too!! Yes babe....(he was just trying to be Mr. Tough Guy)

So we did it. We bought him...on the spot. My next thought- Oh gosh our parents are not going to be too happy with us! We already have two cats, can barely pay the bills now, and we're adding a dog! Oh well! They fell in love instantly after meeting him.

He came home with us that night and it was a rough start. He was very timid, didn't trust us at all, and had a huge huge huge poopy accident the next morning...that Ryan cleaned up! Oops! But the thing that helped us the most was our awesome cats. We started to theorize that he must of been previously abused by humans (since he probably came out of a puppy mill) but he never lost trust in animals...he actually trusts any animal a little too much!

One of our many cuddling nights.
Notice that I attempted to study on the couch....
while laying down. (big fail!)

Our cats put him through the ringer. Sampson taught him quickly who the alpha male of the house was & Delilah tried to mess with him but ended up letting him chase her around a lot. Within 2 months time, it was like he was a brand new dog. The most loving, sweet, and gentle dog that I've ever met! And extremely smart!

Ryan taught him a bunch of tricks within days! He even taught him how to bark! yes people, when I said Ryan was Dr. DoLittle, I wasn't joking! Oliver did not have a voice at all when we brought him home, but Ryan taught him how to bark by utilizing Molly (my mother-in-law's dog) and bacon pieces! It was amazing and has stuck ever since!

Oliver and Xander :)

My mom, who does not like any animal in her house whatsoever because she's a clean freak, LOVES Oliver...and if we laid a price down, she would take him in a heartbeat. He has been the best first pet to introduce to our nephew Xander ever since he was born! And I can say with confidence that there is NOT one person that he's met, that's had any negative feelings about him. I know people brag about their pets and kids all the time, but you just have to meet him to understand, I guess! :)

I know you're not suppose to pick favorites out of your kids but...since these are fur babies, I am making an exception.

Oliver has brought a brand new dynamic to our marriage...to our lives...and to our family lives. Um....you're coming this weekend..and you're bringing Oliver right?! My family is more excited to see Oliver than us! haha!

And Ryan has said many many many times that he could not imagine our lives without Oliver. They are BFF! (Sometimes I think he rather hang out with Oliver than me! haha) Yes babe...you were right... (obviously in regards to my idea of getting Oliver!)

I am excited to see how he responds when we decide to add another fur baby (yes, we are crazy but we want a big dog one day!). 


I hope that our stories of our babies will encourage you to open your heart a little to what pets can do. Yes I am still allergic to cats...I have to vacuum all the time & constantly keep hair off of my clothes. Yes Oliver had accidents once in a while and we had to have patience during his growing pains. 

But I would never trade any of it for anything in the world. They have been there for me when they know I've had a bad day & their love is truly unconditional!

Be blessed. Bless your home, kids, family, heart with the love a pet can give you! It's priceless. <3 md

kit kat break

Taking a little blog kit-kat break.

This picture is who you get to meet tomorrow! 

You know how you're not suppose to have a favorite child?? 

I do! :D

Be blessed. Get a pet. They make the round go round! <3 md

delilah

the first day we met.

We should get a Delilah to add to our Sampson...like the Bible! On my 23rd birthday, my wishes came true!

Ok..close your eyes and hold our your hands! I was squeemish when he asked me to do that. Kinda scary! What is he going to put in my hands?! A BABY TINY LITTLE BLACK KITTEN! I fell in love instantly. Her tiny little face with her awkward little body was perfect. Then we started playing with her...wow she might really fit her name...she's crazy! 


The first day together at Ryan's parent's house, we were in the hot tub relaxing while she was roaming around the deck area. Then all of a sudden, a big splash! Yes folks, the 6 week old kitten just jumped into the hot tub for fun!

She frantically jumped back out, shook her little body, and went about her ways. It was crazy! I thought cats were always timid around water. Well....they are...but not her. She was fearless.

My first thought- Is she okay?! Then- Is this foreshadow?!

Well it was. She is a crazy kitten. From having burst of energy that would cause her to leap randomly in the air and perform like a circus kitten to her having an amazing obsession with all things paper- from crumpled up paper to toilet paper to paper bags!

She was definitely nothing short of entertaining...and definitely had devilish ways from ripping apart all the toilet paper with her claws & teeth to digging up multiple plants around the house and utilizing it as a litter. She was...WILD & out of control.

When Sampson met her, he had his doubts. He was about four times her size and probably could kill her with just his body weight. We separated them in the beginning and gave them limited play time. They started to get along. They eventually got a long SO MUCH that they would have make out sessions...ew. Yes!! They would just lay there and clean each other. It started cute..then started to get..out of control!  haha But they LOVE each other.

Cuddling with their dad.

Sampson definitely showed her who's boss but she definitely showed him her athletic skills! She captivated Ryan's heart right away and became Daddy's little girl. She's a ball of fire and always keeps things interesting & turns out to be Sampson's BFF.

Something we've recently discovered about her. She loves it when we SING! I discovered it actually a couple months ago. I was singing Amazing Grace while reading something on the computer. She immediately awoke from her sleep across the living room, ran over to me, and started moving her head to the rhythm. I started laughing and thought it was a fluke.

Then I did it again in front of Ryan and she did the same thing but this time jumped on my lap while moving her head to the rhythm. Then Ryan tried it and she did the same thing! It's hilarious. She is very special:) 


As crazy as she is and as frustrated as she has made me over the years we've had her, she has grown into such a fun cat with a very sweet nature! She even moves out of the way to let her brothers eat her food...which is why we have to feed her separately!

Delilah and I grown to love each other. She's such an amazing addition to our family...Oliver loves her and Sampson wouldn't be the same with out her.

She is Ryan's little girl until we get a fur-less one of our own one day! (haha)

She's just like me.

We started life like a tornado of terror but now we're refined with bursts of craziness here & there :D

Maybe that's why Ryan loves her so much! 

sampson- our little BIG garfield.

Sampson

Oh wait...you have a...cat? One of the first things I asked when Ryan and I spoke on the phone for the first time.

I'm allergic. I'm much more of a 'dog' person. I'm allergic. I'm allergic. This may not work...


So how would you feel if you fell in love with me and had to give up your cat?
(haha) Yes. that was serious question I asked after the first date.

Well you guys know already. I think ahead...I'm not playin'! He just chuckled then saw my face...Oh you're serious?! (oops...maybe it was too soon?! haha)

Well...I love Sampson...he's helped me get through moving to Illinois...he was like my only friend for a while. yes...this was his response...so of course I felt like a jerk. I guess I was half serious and half joking?! hmph. But if it really interferes with a relationship in general, then he can always go live with my parents in Michigan. Yeah guys...I'm a BIG jerk. I asked a guy before he was even in love with me if he would basically get rid of his best friend.

Well OBVIOUSLY that didn't happen! Mr. Scoobs as we call him, has changed my view on cats. Everything I already thought- selfish, HYPERallergenic, annoying- well that still all is very true. I'm not use to living on anyone's terms in general especially not an animal...but seeing Ryan's love for animals in general made me yearn to have that same respect & love for them.

I didn't really grow up with animals...it was kind of like they were separate from us. Our dogs (plural) lived outside & we never really interacted with them in the way that I interact with my fur babies now. I feel horrible thinking of how we treated the animals that blessed our lives in the past...Ryan has changed that view point for me for sure.

So for anyone that has cats. Well you know that well...more than dogs, everything is on their terms. If they come and lay with you, you have to appreciate the time you have with them...trying to change their position or make yourself more comfortable in their expense may cause them to give you a dirty look and walk away. Snuggle time is not really your choice.

He's lost a lot of weight since this picture. He's our skinny boy now. 

When Sampson is hungry...well he will let you know..and his screaming won't stop until you fill his belly. May be why he was quite overweight when I first met him..Ryan is a softy and always left food out for him. We've (since then) have restricted his diet and he's gotten slim but still a big boy nonetheless. 

Overall, I see the love that Sampson & Ryan have for each other.  They have a special connection that warms my heart. It's as if Ryan could speak and hear what Sampson is saying...a bit of a Dr. Dolittle. Every meow Ryan understands.
He's like an animal whisperer. 


Sampson and I (oddly enough) like to fight each other for status. He's the alpha male of the house...Delilah & Oliver both understand their place rightfully under him. I'm crazy I know, but me and a cat like to battle. If he screams to go outside just because he wants to, I look at him and pretend I didn't hear him. If he cries for food even after we JUST fed him, I look at him and say NO...it doesn't matter to him, he still screams. We go back and forth.

I've learned quickly...and slowly....that it's not about me. Just like everything else isn't about me. yay. His nature is sweet, loving, and protective and I have to let him embrace that...even among all his annoying tendencies.

It's been a learning process for both Sampson & I. To deal with each other. But he's right.

He's the alpha. I just feed him. ;)

meet my babies.

This picture cracks me up.

1. Ryan and I are so happy we are NOT this heavy anymore. Man...looking at how thick we both looked makes me happy we jumped on the Beachbody bandwagon. We were not morbidly obese by any means, but we definitely added years to our life just by losing 15-20 pounds a piece. :D

2. Our pets would NOT sit still! This was our attempt to try a family picture in 2009...didn't work...obviously.

3. My outfit is crazy. What the heck was I thinking? Man oh man. My future daughter will laugh at this and probably ask me the same thing.

You've meet my #1 baby- my hubs. hehe 


Well for the next three days or so, I will be introducing you to my fur babies- Sampson (Garfield look alike), Delilah (fits her name-a little devil), and Oliver (sweetest thing ever!).

:) Stay tuned for more stories with recipes in between! :D

I like your green hair!

When times got tough. The atmosphere thick with tension. A beautiful and powerful woman (whom you'll learn about later) would share short stories and passages to inspire us...awaken us. The book that she would read from is by Mark Nepo called "The Book of Awakening."It would lift our spirits and help us get through the day.

I love this little excerpt that is actually dated for January 5th. It's called "Show your hair" and it embodies how I feel about this blog! Aren't you worried that you'll be sharing too much? Committing to a blog opens you up to a lot of criticism and judgement. I am too private to share my personal stuff all over the internet. Calm down people. It's not like I am giving you my social security number.

Utilizing this blog has allowed myself to reflect on all the amazing things in my life...from my husband to my family...to the potential I have in myself. We spend ...well I know I do, spend so many days thinking and focusing on what others think...especially the ones that really don't matter. And that begins to lay down a home deep inside you that's hard to detox.
Hope this awakens you. 

From "The Book of Awakening" by Mark Nepo

"My grandmother told me, 'Never hide your green hair---They can see it anyway." Angeles Arrien

From the agonies of kindergarten, when we first were teased or made fun of in the midst of all our innocence, we have all struggled in one way or another with hiding what is obvious about us.

No one plans this. It is not a conspiracy, but rather an inevitable and hurtful passage from knowing only ourselves to knowing the world. The tragedy is that many of us never talk about it, or never get told that our "green hair" is beautiful, or that we don't need to hide, no matter what anyone says on the way to lunch. And so, we often conclude that to know the world we must hide ourselves.

Nothing could be farther from the truth. It is an ancient, unspoken fact of being that blackmail is only possible if we believe that we have something to hide. The inner corollary of this is that worthless feelings arise when we believe, however briefly, that who we are is not enough. 

Sit quietly, with your eyes closed, and with each in-breath, feel the fact that who you are is enough.

I promised you a recipe. This is one of Ryan's favorite...he likes to brag about my curry skills. It's one of the best 'spices' EVER. It's so full of robust flavor & the right amount of spiciness that hits the spot! :D

Spicy Curry (something)* Seafood

Prep time: 30 minutes Total time: 1 hour

Servings: 4 Difficulty level: Medium 

*You can do chicken, beef, turkey, seafood! Any protein works!

Ingredients:

1 large white onion chopped

2 jalapenos

6 cloves of minced garlic

1 can of Maesri Red Curry Paste

2 tbsp Yellow Curry powder

2 tbsp Garlic Powder

2 tbsp Onion Powder 

2 cans of Chaokoh Coconut Milk 

3 cups of chopped Vegetables (all dependent on the protein you pick) - chopped broccoli, bamboo, eggplant, potatoes (not for seafood), baby corn, organic corn (for seafood), mushrooms, etc. Basically use whatever you want for veggies!

1/4-1/3 cup of fish sauce (to taste)

1/2 stick of butter 

Set aside:

Cilantro and green onion to garnish

2 cups cooked Jasmine rice or brown rice 

Instructions: 

1. Saute half of the onions & garlic with some EVOO on medium heat until the onions are see through. 

2. Add the red curry paste and stir constantly to get it incorporated. 

3. When the curry is incorporated in with the garlic & onions, add one can of coconut milk and mix! 

4. Add the fish sauce (to taste) & 1/2 stick of butter. 

5. Add your scallops (in this recipe, but can add your choice of protein) and add all the spices (garlic, yellow curry, and onion powder). 

6. Stir the scallops and envelope it with the awesome sauce. Then add the chopped jalapenos. 

7. Add the shrimp

8. Let cook on low heat for about 15 minutes. 

9. Add the veggies (corn for seafood) that will cook on high heat and covered in under 1 hour! :)

That's it folks! 

It's so easy and it's really ME just putting ingredients together! Open up your fridge, see what leftover veggies you have...then go get the curry & coconut milk, then voila! You won't be disappointed!! 

Any questions from this recipe? Holler!

Be blessed. Food does a body good. So does a positive mindset. <3 md

jay-z is a sweet heart.

For many reasons, this video makes me tear up. Maybe it's due to lack this figure in my life. Or that I am so excited to see Ryan as a dad. Or both. He's going to be so amazing. I already see him with Xander & I fall in love all over again...

Today has a been a rough feeling day so my blog will be super short. This is it folks...

Tomorrow I will be posting a recipe that many people have asked for:

My curry!
This is a version with seafood but it can be used with any protein! :D 

Be blessed. Pray that I feel better soon so I can satisfy your blogging needs. <3 md

and life is definitely worth living...

Halloween 2010
Loofah & a bubble bath!

Everyday isn't absolute bliss. Let's be real. Some people think the honeymoon period lasts for up to years but it doesn't. Once things get really real, your patience gets tested, things start to get very hard...you realize...well how much you were really meant for each other. 

When the love turns into deeper love after your get over the personality clashes while dating, the family drama while becoming "serious", and the overwhelming busy-ness of wedding planning...you get down to the nitty gritty. Your love gets tested...over & over again. The tears you shed aren't wasteful...the arguments you constantly have aren't in vain...the time you spend over excel sheets trying to budget are for the bigger purpose...

After all, marriage isn't about the flashy dress, the fancy decorations, or the open bar...it's about the joining of two lives...baggage and all. Our eyes were open real fast. We jumped into a bad living situation while renting a potentially gorgeous house with a very shady land lord. We thankfully ended that lease after only two months without any repercussions. We went through a very fast "home owning" process- 3 months total from looking to closing. We ran into job insecurities from unethical bosses to cheap ones.

December 2009- a month after we purchased our home.

We started to regret. Regret our decisions. Wonder of "what could of been" if we decided this over that...etc etc. Then reality really hit us. We experienced something together that was life changing and put life in perspective completely. Maybe one day I will share that with you...


We started to live to love...rather than just breathe and live. Ryan had this unique ability to always love in the midst of complete adversity as you can tell from my other stories. In our moments of discouragement...we didn't think we would make it through...he always would say, "We have such a good life." And I would instantly smile & agree.

We've never had a moment where we went more than a day upset at each other. We always reconciled by reminding each other how much we loved each other. Lots of hugs & kisses.

December 2011
We added Oliver, our cockapoo, in March 2010:)

A fond memory that I have is early in our relationship while we were dating, we got into an argument about something...I don't remember what it was about. But my first reaction is be dramatic. So I grabbed my stuff, my keys, and walked out of his apartment and headed to my car. He ran after me of course and grabbed me and instantly embraced me. Um..what is he doing?! I'm suppose to be mad at him! 


"Just because we are mad at each other, doesn't mean that I love you any different but I love you more. This doesn't change how I feel about you and I don't want it to change how you love me." That was the remedy...yes everyone...my heart melted once again. I couldn't help but look at him with tears welling up & surrender. He is so good at reminding me about what life is all about...not about the petty things that you fight about constantly or the personality clashes you manage to have...it's really about ALL THE GOOD things in life...all the love you get to experience & share.

So...we're ready. We already have two cats and one dog that we love dearly. So now all we need is a baby. One day folks...one day....I've always wanted MIXED babies so don't you worry.

We don't have a perfect marriage. It's pretty darn close though. :)

 Part of my Christmas Present to Ryan:) Click!! <3

August 2009
Our honeymoon

Be blessed. Seven days isn't nearly enough to express my LOVE for him. <3 md

the day.

Photo courtesy of DaVinci Photography

the anticipation. the nerves. the stress. oh em gee. it was here. all the work...all the money...all the stress was coming to a halt.

I told myself the entire time. Something will not work out. That's just life so deal with it & enjoy what the wedding is all about. That little thing kept me sane. Honestly. I knew it wasn't going to be perfect in terms of details & flow but I knew it was going to be perfect :D

Four city girls (Metta, Rosie, Maria, & I) navigating through Grand Rapids finishing up details days before the wedding was memorable in itself. For those that attended my wedding, you know this fact...if you forget something in the 'city' of GR & you're back at the 'Dorough's'...well you have to really think hard if you actually need it. The drive one way was about 30 minutes! It got tiring...real fast. But we had fun. We created memories. It still hadn't hit me....omg..this is all for MY wedding.

Photo courtesy of Aunt Theresa :)

For the people that know me..well I like to PLAN...not just like PLAN but ambitiously plan. I thought we could fit a lot more in each day than we actually got accomplished. of course. But with the combined help of both families together, we made it to the day. Programs done. Center pieces assembled. Chair covers on chairs. "Well I will be attending my brother's wedding the same weekend as yours but I will have my assistant Mike help you with all the details on your wedding day." The words of my wedding coordinator at the country club we held our reception at.

My jaw dropped. I almost wanted to reach across the table and slap her. Seriously I did. My thoughts were wait...you're seriously telling me a random unknown guy is going to help me with my reception 2 days before my wedding? This girl almost turned the bridezilla knob right on. My bridesmaids remained quiet during this entire interaction. I think they almost feared for her life...rightly so. (haha)

I took a deep breath and said Ok...if that's what it has to be, it's not ideal, but we will deal with it. She didn't seem to care too much. What a girl! Psh. She secretly reminded me of one of Ryan's ex-gf's who I think is a little scandalous anyways so I wasn't surprised. (haha-the claws come out! hahaha) 

The weather was beautiful the whole week. Then the day before the wedding, the forecast: rain. Seriously?! In August?! Gosh.

I spent the night writing my vows to Ryan...we decided to do our own vows as well as have my brother, Nounou, who is a pastor to 'marry us'. We wanted it to be very personal. Writing the vows...it was hard for me to NOT make it into a book displaying all my feelings for him...how grateful I am for him...& how lucky I am to be chosen for him.

I promised to love him no matter what & he also returned the favor. He also promised to be the man in my life that was missing...to keep me safe...protect me...never hurt me physically or emotionally & that's what meant the world to me & my family. He was going to not only LOVE me wholeheartedly but my family had the assurance that he was going to protect me.

In Laotian culture, getting married (for the woman) is basically turning away from your family to join another one. You will now be apart of HIS family. Live by their standards. That's kind of how it is like. Granted, yes HE is apart of my family now too, but my mom was going to officially let go of the reigns. Can you imagine how scary that would be? I'm my mom's youngest & only girl...and she had to trust that another man could provide the love & support she had given me my whole life. I've been through a lot of hurt through my life...I've seen a lot of hurt inflicted on the people I love so dearly especially my momma. That was my fear. Having that hurt once again enter my life and continuing the evil cycle. The person he is, well is everything that person was not.

The day came. The morning arrived. My bridesmaids were amazing. They catered to my every need. I didn't even have to move a finger. It was phenomenal. I could get use to this. (haha). Then it started. The drizzling. I looked outside. All the white chairs were set up on Ryan's parent's land. It looked like out of the movies with the custom built amazing alter that Ryan's brother Evan made for us. Then I see my uncles and future father-in-law bonding over utilizing a leaf blower to dry off the chairs. This outside wedding was going to be ruined....everything we didn't think would happen is happening!! 


I continued to breathe. Just focus on getting ready....all will fall into place. Guest starting arriving. I slip on my dress. Oh gosh..it doesn't fit. It's too big! Seriously? I thought I would be too heavy to wear it but instead I lost weight! The first time I would be upset that something is too big for me. It still fit..it just bunched up a little so it was okay.

Then I get a notification..."Um...Mimi...the DJ isn't here yet to do the sound for your ceremony." We hired our DJs to provide a sound system for the ceremony so that we could have live singing at our wedding (which was amazing thanks to Amanda, Peter, & Billy!). But the DJs were suppose to come at 4:30p...it was 4:30p & guests starting trickling in. Still no sign of them. No number could reach them. This is when I started freaking out. Finally..they showed up a half an hour late...better late than never.

We decided to see each other before the ceremony to take pictures. It was still special to us. I wasn't nervous at all. I knew I looked good.  (haha) No seriously. My aunt Becky & cousin Emily did an amazing job on my hair & my makeup was flawless...& well...the dress, although a tad big, it was banging. I was nervous for HIM. I knew he was nervous. Once he turned around and saw me...my heart stopped. The way he looked at me...made me nervous. I started to feel the curls fall in front of my face and stick to my heavy lipgloss while my dress started to constrict my breathing. Oh gosh...he just made me nervous. WTH?!
This is what love feels like...over & over again.

The rain halted. It was just misty. Umbrellas up & open. The steep hill that we had to walk down seemed like a mountain glistening with very wet grass. This is going to be tricky. These four inch red heels may not be friendly to me. "If you fall, do you want me to roll down the hill with you?" That's what my grandpa said to me right before we took the plunge. Yes my grandpa walked me down the aisle. One of the most meaningful moments for me in the wedding. That's all I've wanted ever since I was a little girl. That's what he was good at. He knew I was nervous & just wanted to make me laugh. "Don't worry. Grandpa is strong..just hold on to me." Aww I love my grandpa sooo much. The cutest most loving man you will ever meet. Seriously. 

Amanda's beautiful voice & the boys flawless guitar playing clouded the atmosphere. I started to tear up already. I knew everyone was looking at me. I've been on stage before but this was different. I heard cameras snapping away, people looked so happy to see me, and then I saw him. It was as if time stopped...as if he saw the most beautiful being walking towards him. His eyes said it all. That moment we had was priceless.

"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" Silence. We looked at grandpa. "Oh. ME!!" It was so sweet. We had more moments like that throughout the ceremony. It was beautiful...perfect. I know that everyone that attended the ceremony could really feel the love we have for each other. There were tears of joy shared everywhere & laughter shed among everyone. As my brother prayed & asked God to rain down on us to bless us...it started to rain harder (we were under a tree so we didn't get wet)...as soon as he said "Amen", the rain halted and the sun came out. It was unbelievable.


"Now I pronounce you husband and wife." I grabbed his face with my two hands and laid a big & long kiss on him! I think I heard my grandma gasp as I did that. I mean...I couldn't help it...I was happy :)

A couple (if not more) hiccups at our reception...our cake (absolutely delicious but not esthetically pleasing), the shady DJ's assistant, etc etc are just examples..but overall, it was amazing. The dance floor was never bare, the bar was always full, and the dessert table was a hit.

One of the most amazing & most memorable days of my life. 


We spent the next day having breakfast with the family & friends from out of town (and country-yes my amazing friends from Holland, England, and NYC all came who I met in BCN! They are amazing.) at the hotel. We said our goodbyes...which was bittersweet. Then spent the day at my in-laws opening up all our amazing gifts that people blessed us with. Oh boy...we were so tired...but knew we wouldn't get to sleep until we were on our honeymoon.


We spent the week in Northern Michigan traveling through Traverse City and Mackinaw Island...visiting lots of wineries...eating lots of good eats..and enjoying alone time together. It was exactly what we needed.

Photo courtesy of Aunt Theresa :)

We knew that the honeymoon was just the last HOORAH until we really started to face reality. Living. Back to school for me. Job search for Ryan. Money. Where do we live? What will we eat?

The reality starts to kick in. We are officially adults. Bills in hand. It was time.

Just me and you. Tackling the world together.
One success & lost at a time.


Be blessed.

Cherish one another. Remember the day you said "I do".

Cherish that. With every fight...with every doubt...with every tear.

<3 md.

the proposal & then some...

It was perfect. January 19th, 2009 happen to fall on MLK day. It was our one year anniversary. We had school off. I was halfway through the Chiropractic program and he had two trimesters of school left.

"Let's do a repeat of our first date...since it meant so much to us." It was his idea. I thought it was so sweet so I obliged immediately. The weekend before, we went to Rockford to see my mom & family. She just got back from France (we all sent her there for a Christmas present to visit family).

I was looking forward to our date. Just an excuse for us to enjoy art, walk the streets of Michigan Ave, and eat really good food! We started the day off with Grand Luxe Cafe. We actually got the same seats that we did one year ago on our first date. What a coincidence! It was perfect. He even wore the same green sweater....awww.


In one year, we had already learned so much about each other. From our own personal disputes stemming mainly from my insecurities to the clash amongst our families. No matter what, he remained patient...and confident. I'm the pessimist. Big time. Throughout the year, I couldn't help but always question everything. Never did I question my love for him. But for some reason, I couldn't stop questioning his love for me. It wasn't anything he did. It was always those voices in my head telling me that there's no way a man like him could love me so completely despite all my flaws. I found myself listening to those voices here and there. Sometimes I felt defeated. I'm too lucky. This is too good to be true. Maybe those people were right...


The glue that held us together was definitely his love for me. Through all my doubts and what I thought were reasons, he saw through it. It didn't phase him. He continued to love me despite it all. So as we sat there reflecting back on the year we've been through, we both agreed that we couldn't get through life without each other. This was it. He was it for me. And he chose me for him. 

Then we took the long walk to the Art Museum. "Remember when you asked to hold my arm but you know you really wanted to hold my hand?" haha Yes I remember. Walking this long mile walk, we saw it again. You know...the print. It was so surreal. We just looked at each other and laughed. This is crazy right? Right.

We stopped by The Bean. Took our cliche picture and then my camera died. Yes people...it died before it all even happened! I saw the disappointment in his face but said "Oh there's nothing to take pictures of in the Art Museum anyways...they get mad at us for doing that." His response...."Yeah...I know." He looked disappointed but I just shrugged it off. He usually makes fun of me for taking pictures of EVERYTHING so I thought this might bring him relief! I wasn't going to be the crazy Asian tourist taking pictures ;)

The Art Museum was stunning once again. It was such a blur to me, I don't even remember the theme that day. Then I noticed that he started to walk ahead of me a lot...in his own world. Is he really enjoying this that much that he's THAT anxious? Hmm. 


"I'm getting so tired baby, can we please go home? We've walked through this whole place for like 2 hours already." I started getting...*ahem* crabby. I think we walked by the same display 4893284 times already but we kept walking..he insisted. "Okay...fine." Then we walk by this huge hallway of beautiful Asian art. And there was a door. "Let's go into this room...it looks cool." Well it really didn't look that cool. It was dark inside but I followed him anyways.

The entire room was pitch black. The only way we found our way through the dark hallway with tall black pillars was the light in the distance.  The only light was on the art display that was displaying beautiful Asian porcelain work. It was breathtaking. I noticed that he wasn't by me anymore...Where did he disappear to now?! 

and the layers are shed...

My first time in Lowell, Mi.
Our first picture we took together. 

"This is Ryan's girlfriend, Miravone." "Mira-what?" "*ahem* Hi my name is MEE-RA-VAHN" "Oh....where are you from" "Um..like what country or what city?" "haha what city honey?" "Oh....Chicago." 


My perception was completely off..when I look back now. I thought, well I'm going to the "country" and really...I mean what asians live in the country? Have they ever seen Asians...not the adopted ones..like Asian families? Once I tell them that I'm from Laos, they'll probably quote "King of the Hill." It wasn't like that at all. I mean okay...yes walking into "Sneakers" (a local bar in Lowell) and sitting in the booth, well I was the only Asian. But it was my own insecurities that made me feel that way...no body else did. It took me some time to adapt to that...that it wasn't always about ethnicity and being different. Not everyone judges you for the color of your features.

Growing up, like many other 'minorities' probably, I dealt with a lot of teasing...name calling..stereotyping. "Ching chong ching chong" down the hallways wasn't always endearing. Professors saying "Well of course you're good at math & science" was a lot of pressure...ahem even though I am :D Learning English lingo, formal English, then coming home to a full Laotian home was challenging. Then it was "Oh it's cause she's pretty" ... "She's got pretty girl syndrome"..."She's young so she's probably just a wiz kid without any real life experience.". I mean geez....the judgement continued.

I was teased for being Asian. I lived up to the stereotype of being "studious". Then had to work extra hard because my age & exterior was what people saw first. My education status was not only achieved because my mom didn't like A- but only A+...it was because I was trying to prove to myself & everyone else that I'm more than what people thought. I cared too much. It was always the people that didn't matter that affected me the most. Figures.

So here I am...in a world unknown to me. I mean, I wouldn't drive through the country unless I HAD to. Kinda...scary. A little too quiet. The sounds of cars and flashing lights give me comfort...even hearing an ambulance once in a while growing up in the hood didn't startle me. But the silence and deep darkness of the country did. I mean isn't that why horror movies are always filmed there?!

the clash and harmony...

"Do you think she's with him because he comes from money?" "Don't you see how they are so 'lovey dovey'...I bet they already had sex." "Oh my gosh...did you see that? He ordered a beer." "He's not even her type." "She probably cheated on him with him & that's why they broke up." "It's way too soon. She's horrible for doing that to him." "She likes him because her love language is 'gifts' & he buys her stuff." "How is he interested in her other than her looks? How does he even deal with her?" "He'll probably leave her at home with the kids one day to go to the bars." "Did you see the last person he dated? Eh."  


This story isn't going to be 100% upbeat & cute. It's going to be honest. Display my flaws. Open you up to my insecurities. But that's what makes our story so amazing. It wasn't always sunshine & butterflies but it got real...fast.

True colors definitely were revealed during this rough patch I had with many of my encounters with people as they reacted to this new found love while they were still emotionally attached to the old. Friends definitely come & go...and oh boy they did.

Not only am I in a new relationship...but in a relationship with someone not from my culture. So the barrier was already set. Language. Customs. Food. Rituals. And on top of that, I had to deal with everything else. Figures right?


It was hard for me. My heart was breaking. This is what they all really think of me? Is this all worth it? Should I just give in? Ruminating thoughts continuously circulated through my mind & heart.

Then I got on this whole "I'm asian. He's white" kick. 
What will his parents think of me? His grandparents are a lot older...more traditional...will they like that he's dating a 'darker' girl? His past girlfriends were all skinny. I'm not...does that matter? What if everyone in his town thinks I'm a mail-ordered bride? (haha) What if he only eats burgers, fries, and pizza and hates Laos food? Will my kids be able to speak Laos and appreciate Laos food?! Is this going to be like the other time I tried dating a white guy...when I showed up to a golf course with his family wearing gaucho pants, big earrings, a Snooki-do, and flipflops while everyone had polos & khakis? (haha)


The barriers were infinite it seemed. I held off on introducing him to anyone. But he was anxious to introduce me to his parents. The first time I met them was brief. I wore high heeled boots on a cold & icy day...lots of makeup...and my hair was all done & did. Perfect....NOT! After meeting his amazingly sweet mom, she asked "Honey- aren't you worried about wearing those heels out in this weather?" Of course I tried to play it cool...like I'm an expert with heels...when for anyone who knows me- I DON'T! Breakfast went great with them..but I felt so uneasy still. It was my own insecurities. 

the first date...and so on.

MLK Day 2008 :)
Our first date.

Can you see us? This is the first date. The anticipation was CRAZY. I drove to Iowa the weekend before to visit my two amazing friends from college, Sangeeta & Jenni. I spent one day with each of them & I couldn't stop talking about this boy who swept me off my feet by one smile.

I came home (to Julia) and I think freaked out a little. The PLAN: he would pick me up at 1pm, we would drive to Chicago, go to the Art Institute, go have dinner somewhere (I suggested Grand Luxe Cafe on Michigan Ave), & 'wing' it from there. That's not a typical date...right?! I don't know...cause I don't think I really have much experience with "dates". I mean...I've dated my "boyfriends" but I don't think that counts! So this date was going to be LONG...like a whole day!

Things that I discussed with Julia: "What do I say if there's an awkward silence?" "What if I run out of things to talk about? We are driving to Chicago...coming back...spending the whole day there!!" "Am I suppose to kiss him on the first date or what if I don't want to and he does?!" "Do you think I should offer to pay?" "He's white. From Michigan. Country. Do they even have asians there?!" (haha) The best one: "He's from Michigan. I've never really dated white guys...what if he just likes country music and thinks I'm a crazy asian city girl?" The list of questions go on and on. The next day, I even did a little fashion show for her while picking out the perfect dressy BUT casual outfit. For everyone that knows me well, I've been a victim of being the girl that walks in OVER DRESSED...like waaay over dressed! oh gosh.

While anticipating his arrival, I was ready extra early, packed my purse with all the necessities (lip gloss, mints, face powder, gum, hair brush), and waiting anxiously for his phone call. Then boom...the phone rings and it was him. Once I opened the door and saw him standing by the car waiting for me with his cute green sweater and amazing smile, I felt like everything was going to be okay:) 

the first day...

Within 15 minutes of meeting each other :)

Ok. I'll try to refrain from embarrassing him too much. I get butterflies just thinking about this story..so here goes :)

Meet my amazing husband, Ryan :)


We met at the classiest establishment ever (hehe)- the "First Tri Mixer". Our school does a first of the weekend "get together" to welcome all the new first trimester "baby doc" students & gives them the opportunity to meet "upper tri's"

I was accompanied by two friends, Sheena & Irene (both graduated & colleagues now). As we mingled with everyone, saw a lot of new faces, danced around, laughed a lot, Sheena starts to walk over to this group of guys & I recognized one of them, our mutual friend, Jim (also a colleague).

We all greeted one another and then BAM...HE turns around, flashes a smile that literally melted my heart, & the first thing I said to him was "Hey, I like your sweater." (didn't even introduce myself! haha) His reply was "Thanks! My mom bought it for me." (awww!) 


Jim & Sheena both saw our interation and said "Hey guys- you should meet formally! This is Ryan & This is Miravone." We tried to act coy, said our hellos, and he said "Oh I've seen you around campus..." And stumped, I said "Oh.....um really? Uhhh I don't recognize you.." (oooops!)


Then as Sheena, Irene, & I were about to walk away, Jim (who happens to be Ryan's roommate), whispered in my ear- "Miravone- he's single & he's a really good guy. And you're a good person. You guys should get together!" The look on my face was probably priceless. I thought to myself...Man I just got out of a five-year relationship, I just want to be single & have fun!! Then I thought- Well...he's cute...I LOVE his smile..cute sweater..and he kind of reminds me of Justin Timberlake (hahahahaha!!) So I took a deep breath and thought- well a dance couldn't hurt right? "Hey guys...(while looking at him)...come dance with us!" The boys looked at each other...then he responded, "Ohh...um no it's okay. You girls have fun."

Date #49382430 :D

WAIT. SERIOUSLY?! My first thought is wait...um I never ask a guy to dance and secondly...I never get TURNED DOWN! So I shrugged it off & walked away while still trying to catch his glimpse here & there. That interaction was at the beginning of the night.

As they were leaving, we saw them (while we were on the dance floor), & we gave them our hugs & goodbyes. I thought..again..MAN he totally turned me down! psh! 


As the night ended & I was in the car with Sheena, I looked over at her & said "Can you believe he turned me down?! I can't get his smile out of my head." She just laughed and we drove home.

Sitting in class the next day, I get a text message from Sheena with something like "Guess who I am in class with?" Then 20 minutes later another text from her saying "I'm giving him your number...well I already gave it to him. He's going to call you!" Trying not to freak out like a little girl in class since I never said I wanted her to give him my number, I felt my cheeks getting very hot & red! oh geez. 


Days later (yes he waited days), I looked down at my phone & it was a number I did not recognize. My heart started beating. I knew it was him. We talked for literally hours (& we both hate talking on the phone period!).  I learned a lot about him & he learned a lot about me. He asked me out on a date. MLK Day 2008...our first date....

to be continued tomorrow....our first date :D

we are the two little dots in the middle :)

be blessed. reminisce...does a heart good :) <3 md

Dr. King...

Source: kalimao.blogspot.com via Miravone on Pinterest

I promised you a glimpse into my love for my husband but I couldn't resist and recognize another amazing man that has blessed this Earth. Like Mother Teresa, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr chose to love above all else.

He fought for not only freedom & righteousness of the black community, but promoted LOVE versus HATE overall in the human race! 

Do you spend more time hating than loving? Ask yourself that today & try to exemplify what Dr. King preached...be more like Jesus & the rest will follow :)

One of the most famous speeches of all time "I have a dream"

Watch it!

the face that will melt your heart.

meet our nephew Xander. 

...more to come about him in a later blog...

THANK YOU for all the support. 

2nd week is done & it's still very fun & exciting. 

almost @ 2,000 views! *gasp* :) 

happy Sunday! <3

this week is exciting for me...I get to talk about my husband! :D 

Stay tuned!

be blessed.  <3  md

what a woman.

Source: time.com via Miravone on Pinterest

I love Pinterest. Not only for all the fun DIY ideas, recipes, fashion tips, but for the amazing photography that makes you feel.

I came across this picture of one of the most amazing women that have blessed this Earth- Mother Teresa. 

If we could have an ounce of the love she had, I think many problems and issues we encounter could be remedied. 

"There is a terrible hunger for love. We all experience that in our lives - the pain, the loneliness. We must have the courage to recognize it. The poor you may have right in your own family. 

Find them.
Love them."