May you always have work for your hands to do.
May your pockets hold always a coin or two.
May the sun shine bright on your windowpane.
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.”
- Irish blessing
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Veteran's Day
I was posting on The Knot this afternoon while at work and the following post came up.
"List the Veterans in your life, living or not."
My list is pretty long, so here goes.
"List the Veterans in your life, living or not."
My list is pretty long, so here goes.
- Lambert Rebstock (mom's uncle)- WWII, POW in Japan
- 4 older Rebstock brothers, Matthew Mark Luke & John (we're Catholic can ya tell?, also mom's uncles)- WWII, died in action
- Walter Ditman- (mom's dad) WWII US Army
- Grandpa Ditman- (mom's grandfather) US Army
- Joseph Clark- (dad's dad) WWII US Navy
- Uncle Walter- (dad's uncle) WWII US Air Force
- Daniel Clark- (dad) Vietnam, US Air Force
- Zach Lang- (cousin) soon to be serving, US Navy
- Jason Schultz- (drew's best friend) currently serving & stationed in Iraq, US Army
- Danny DeArmond- (my friend Julie's brother) currently serving, US Air Force
- Karl Jacobs- (former boss/mentor) Vietnam, US Army
- John Poi- (dad's friend) Vietnam, US Army
- Vance Munsen- (dad's friend) Vietnam, Marine Corps
- Len Pietrusciewicz- (dad's friend) WWII, US Navy
Reading this list makes me cry. There are no words to express how grateful I am for the sacrifices these men made and are still making. I am truly humbled to consider them my family and my friends.
1908
I got this email from one of my friends at work. It's very interesting to see what a difference we've made over the last 100 years!
THE YEAR 1908This will boggle your mind, I know it did mine!
The year is 1908.One hundred years ago.
What a difference a century makes!
Here are some statistics for the Year 1908 :
************************************
Now I forwarded this from someone else without typing it myself, and sent it to you and others all over the world in a matter of seconds!Try to imagine what it may be like in another 100 years.
IT STAGGERS THE MIND!
THE YEAR 1908This will boggle your mind, I know it did mine!
The year is 1908.One hundred years ago.
What a difference a century makes!
Here are some statistics for the Year 1908 :
************************************
- The average life expectancy was 47 years.
- Only 14 percent of the homes had a bathtub.
- Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.
- There were only 8,000 cars and only 144 miles of paved roads.
- The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.
- The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower.
- The average wage in 1908 was 22 cents per hour.
- The average worker made between $200 and $400 per year.
- A competent accountant could expect to earn $2000 per year,A dentist $2,500 per year, a veterinarian between $1,500 and $4,000 per year, and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.
- More than 95 percent of all births took place at HOME.
- Ninety percent of all doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION! Instead , they attended so-called medical schools, many of which Were condemned in the press AND the government as "substandard."
- Sugar cost four cents a pound.Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.Coffee was fifteen cents a pound.
- Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used Borax or egg yolks for shampoo.
- Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from entering into their country for any reason.
- Five leading causes of death were: 1. Pneumonia and influenza 2. Tuberculosis 3. Diarrhea 4. Heart disease 5. Stroke
- The American flag had 45 stars.
- The population of Las Vegas , Nevada, was only 30!
- Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and ice tea hadn't been invented yet.
- There was no Mother's Day or Father's Day.
- Two out of every 10 adults couldn't read or write.
- Only 6 percent of all Americans had graduated from high school.
- Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores. Back then pharmacists said, "Heroinclears the complexion, gives buoyancy to the mind,regulates the stomach and bowels, and is, in fact, a perfect guardian of health." Shocking? DUH!
- Eighteen percent of households had at least one full-time servant or domestic help.
- There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE U.S.A.!
Now I forwarded this from someone else without typing it myself, and sent it to you and others all over the world in a matter of seconds!Try to imagine what it may be like in another 100 years.
IT STAGGERS THE MIND!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Long Time, No Chat
Ok, it's been a long time since I posted. A really long time.
I've been a little side tracked with the wedding planning, and contributing to a new blog. I'm officially a Pink Bride, hence the lovely picture to the right. There's been quite a bit going on there, all about the wedding plans and how they're coming along.
Click here to get your updates.
Enjoy!
I've been a little side tracked with the wedding planning, and contributing to a new blog. I'm officially a Pink Bride, hence the lovely picture to the right. There's been quite a bit going on there, all about the wedding plans and how they're coming along.
Click here to get your updates.
Enjoy!
Friday, April 4, 2008
Puppy vs. Playboy
As many of you know, Andrew and I have a beagle-bulldog mix named Loki, after the Norse god of chaos and mischeif. It totally fits his personality. We came home the other day and he had gotten out of his crate and destroyed some magazines. It looked like it had snowed paper, and there he was napping on our bed surrounded by what used to be 6 months worth of Andrew's playboys. Apparently Loki doesn't appreciate Hugh Hefner's portrayal of women.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Save the Date Resolution
I have to give some kudos to our stationary designer. I know after the mix-up that seems odd, but it was her response to the situation that makes me say that.
I let her know about the error and that we had purchased the domain name. Her response without any hesitation was to offer to reimburse us for the cost of the domain name or use an equal amount as a credit towards the next item on our list. She has also offered to give us one of the items on our list for free. I was blown away by her professionalism in her efforts to make the situation right. I let her know that her approach took a lot of my worries away, and after talking about it Andrew and I agreed that we should keep the relationship and finish our items with her help.
I'll do a better job of being on top of our schedule and requesting and reviewing proofs. This will be much less stressful than me trying to find the necessary pieces and make everything from scratch. I could do it, but this really helps.
And on an even better note- a big batch of the save the dates has already gone in the mail. Hopefully we'll be hearing from people soon to let us know that they've received it and we'll be getting some more song requests and guest book entries on our website.
Now, about the dress...
I let her know about the error and that we had purchased the domain name. Her response without any hesitation was to offer to reimburse us for the cost of the domain name or use an equal amount as a credit towards the next item on our list. She has also offered to give us one of the items on our list for free. I was blown away by her professionalism in her efforts to make the situation right. I let her know that her approach took a lot of my worries away, and after talking about it Andrew and I agreed that we should keep the relationship and finish our items with her help.
I'll do a better job of being on top of our schedule and requesting and reviewing proofs. This will be much less stressful than me trying to find the necessary pieces and make everything from scratch. I could do it, but this really helps.
And on an even better note- a big batch of the save the dates has already gone in the mail. Hopefully we'll be hearing from people soon to let us know that they've received it and we'll be getting some more song requests and guest book entries on our website.
Now, about the dress...
Friday, March 28, 2008
Save the Date Drama
So last week I had the day off work on Friday and met with our stationery designer to pick up the save the dates for our October wedding. Since we have so many family members and friends who will be travelling to Chicago we knew we wanted to have them out 6 months ahead of time. They were over 2 weeks late getting finished, but still in time for the deadline we set for ourselves. I pick them do a quick glance and am very pleased. I admit that this was my mistake- I should have looked closer when I picked them up.
I collect addresses from my parents and Andrew's parents, and I start addressing envelopes. I get everything addressed and then I really sit down to look at the save the dates. This is when I freak out.
The wedding website is wrong. Our actual site is through mywedding.com, and I really like it. The site listed on the STD is BriannaandAndrew dot com. Not even close. I'm flipping out, and Andrew is positively irate.
I then remember that the Knot has a few wedding websites recommended that can be purchased. I go online to wedding tracker and am able to find that BriannaandAndrew is available. I buy it, and will be using that homepage to redirect people to our actual homepage.
Crisis avoided, problem solved, and now I have a new project for the weekend, getting everything to link up before the first STDs arrive. Still seething, mind you, but very relieved. We decided to go out to dinner after that since we were both too edgy to cook.
Now, I'm planning to DIY the remaining pieces and end our relationship with this vendor. The lateness I could let slide if the quality was worth it. Now I don't have that feeling. So I'll be going over some websites and checking into the costs and hopefully finding some easy to follow instructions!
I collect addresses from my parents and Andrew's parents, and I start addressing envelopes. I get everything addressed and then I really sit down to look at the save the dates. This is when I freak out.
The wedding website is wrong. Our actual site is through mywedding.com, and I really like it. The site listed on the STD is BriannaandAndrew dot com. Not even close. I'm flipping out, and Andrew is positively irate.
I then remember that the Knot has a few wedding websites recommended that can be purchased. I go online to wedding tracker and am able to find that BriannaandAndrew is available. I buy it, and will be using that homepage to redirect people to our actual homepage.
Crisis avoided, problem solved, and now I have a new project for the weekend, getting everything to link up before the first STDs arrive. Still seething, mind you, but very relieved. We decided to go out to dinner after that since we were both too edgy to cook.
Now, I'm planning to DIY the remaining pieces and end our relationship with this vendor. The lateness I could let slide if the quality was worth it. Now I don't have that feeling. So I'll be going over some websites and checking into the costs and hopefully finding some easy to follow instructions!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Planning and Procrastinating
I've had some good luck this week making progress. Here's how it got started.
Friday last week I had the day off work and was able to meet with our stationary designer, Jen at Card Ink. I picked up our save the date cards. She and I talked about the pieces that are still left to do; invitations, menu cards, program covers, escort cards; and looked at a timeline for each and the information she'll need to complete the design and the printing/assembling. I'm so excited!
I can't wait to get the save the dates out to everyone. I have a few addresses that I still need from my parents, but I've got more than enough to get started. I'm addressing the envelopes myself with a calligraphy pen I picked up at a Micheal's near our apartment. I've only got a few done, and while they're not professional calligrapher quality, they still look really good. One of the things Jen and I decided is that I'll pick up the envelopes before the invitations are finished so I can get a head start on addressing those.
I was able to get in touch with Nichole at Harp Melodies and she's already sent me a contract for the ceremony. We heard her play at the tasting event we went to in February, and it's beautiful. Because of the stairs and such in the church, she'll be on the floor in the sanctuary, probably near the front. Soooo exited. I've already signed the contract and sent her the deposit. We'll meet sometime this summer to go over song selections.
I was able to get in touch with the company we want to use for our DJ, and they've sent me a contract for the package we'd like that I can review. Everything looks like it's in order, but I'd like to make sure my dad has no additional questions before we sign anything and make it official.
I've got plans to head up to Geneva the first weekend in April, and I've already made two appointments. First, I'll be heading to Veiled in Elegance and officially ordering the dress. I'm so excited! I'm a little bummed that Kathy won't have the sample in stock yet, but I know it's absolutely the right dress, so I'm not worried about changing my mind or anything like that. After that, we'll be meeting with a potential photographer. I'd like to get a better sense of his packages, and the fees associated with each. He also offers videography so if we can I'd like to get both from him.
I booked appointments for cake tasting and for a tasting with the country club for the reception. Those aren't until May, but it's nice to have them on the calendar.
I heard from one of my bridesmaids, Shannon, who let me know that she's already ordered her dress. I'm so excited! I can't wait to hear how they come out. I bet hte girls are going to look beautiful. I've ordered part of their gifts, and they've already come in. They look better in person than I expected! I ordered one for myself first, thinking that if it didn't come out great, I wouldn't feel as bad just spending the money on myself. I can't wait to get the final pieces of the gifts and have everything all together.
It's starting to feel real. I can't believe how quickly it's coming! So the rest of this week is all about getting envelopes addressed and getting them over to the post office.
Friday last week I had the day off work and was able to meet with our stationary designer, Jen at Card Ink. I picked up our save the date cards. She and I talked about the pieces that are still left to do; invitations, menu cards, program covers, escort cards; and looked at a timeline for each and the information she'll need to complete the design and the printing/assembling. I'm so excited!
I can't wait to get the save the dates out to everyone. I have a few addresses that I still need from my parents, but I've got more than enough to get started. I'm addressing the envelopes myself with a calligraphy pen I picked up at a Micheal's near our apartment. I've only got a few done, and while they're not professional calligrapher quality, they still look really good. One of the things Jen and I decided is that I'll pick up the envelopes before the invitations are finished so I can get a head start on addressing those.
I was able to get in touch with Nichole at Harp Melodies and she's already sent me a contract for the ceremony. We heard her play at the tasting event we went to in February, and it's beautiful. Because of the stairs and such in the church, she'll be on the floor in the sanctuary, probably near the front. Soooo exited. I've already signed the contract and sent her the deposit. We'll meet sometime this summer to go over song selections.
I was able to get in touch with the company we want to use for our DJ, and they've sent me a contract for the package we'd like that I can review. Everything looks like it's in order, but I'd like to make sure my dad has no additional questions before we sign anything and make it official.
I've got plans to head up to Geneva the first weekend in April, and I've already made two appointments. First, I'll be heading to Veiled in Elegance and officially ordering the dress. I'm so excited! I'm a little bummed that Kathy won't have the sample in stock yet, but I know it's absolutely the right dress, so I'm not worried about changing my mind or anything like that. After that, we'll be meeting with a potential photographer. I'd like to get a better sense of his packages, and the fees associated with each. He also offers videography so if we can I'd like to get both from him.
I booked appointments for cake tasting and for a tasting with the country club for the reception. Those aren't until May, but it's nice to have them on the calendar.
I heard from one of my bridesmaids, Shannon, who let me know that she's already ordered her dress. I'm so excited! I can't wait to hear how they come out. I bet hte girls are going to look beautiful. I've ordered part of their gifts, and they've already come in. They look better in person than I expected! I ordered one for myself first, thinking that if it didn't come out great, I wouldn't feel as bad just spending the money on myself. I can't wait to get the final pieces of the gifts and have everything all together.
It's starting to feel real. I can't believe how quickly it's coming! So the rest of this week is all about getting envelopes addressed and getting them over to the post office.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Rainy Monday Afternoons
Rainy Monday afternoons are perfect for sitting on the couch with a great movie or a good book. Maybe throw in some hot chocolate and a sleepy puppy curled at my feet and I'm a happy girl. Am I doing those things right now? No, I'm working. And only freaking out a little over the to-do list for the wedding.
Why am I freaking out? I made the mistake of looking at the entire list. Not this week or this month but the entire thing. Sure we've gotten 70 items checked off, but there are still 130 to go. That seems like an awful lot to do in less than 7 months. I'm printing it off for our moms so they can see what's left and what I might need to add to the list. I'd also like to show them what's completed. I think they'll have good suggestions for what to add and hopefully they'll be impressed with all I've done on my own.
We have to address and send our save the dates this week. Which is very doable, but we have no addresses for more than half the list. DAAAAHHH!!! The save the dates may wind up with printed labels and I'll do the calligrpahy for the invites. Or I'll do the people that I have and just send the rest as the addresses come. Hate that idea, hate it.
I'm going to meet with the stationary designer this weekend and set a firm timeline for everything that's left. Here's what we have: invitations, programs/covers, menu cards, place cards, thank you notes, table number signs.
We need to finalize the contract for our DJ. Andrew and I agree that the guy we're looking at will do a great job. Just need to make sure my dad has no additional questions. I think he and my mom are on vacation this week. I should know that.
There are a bunch of little details that I've been able to confirm with the church for the big day, which is a gret feeling. I've got a list of some of the small fees that are associated with the ceremony as well and I'm going to start getting those paid. Not that I think it won't get done, but I think it would make me feel better to get a jump on a few things. And get a few more items off the list.
All these tiny details. And only 7 months. My eye is twitching.
Why am I freaking out? I made the mistake of looking at the entire list. Not this week or this month but the entire thing. Sure we've gotten 70 items checked off, but there are still 130 to go. That seems like an awful lot to do in less than 7 months. I'm printing it off for our moms so they can see what's left and what I might need to add to the list. I'd also like to show them what's completed. I think they'll have good suggestions for what to add and hopefully they'll be impressed with all I've done on my own.
We have to address and send our save the dates this week. Which is very doable, but we have no addresses for more than half the list. DAAAAHHH!!! The save the dates may wind up with printed labels and I'll do the calligrpahy for the invites. Or I'll do the people that I have and just send the rest as the addresses come. Hate that idea, hate it.
I'm going to meet with the stationary designer this weekend and set a firm timeline for everything that's left. Here's what we have: invitations, programs/covers, menu cards, place cards, thank you notes, table number signs.
We need to finalize the contract for our DJ. Andrew and I agree that the guy we're looking at will do a great job. Just need to make sure my dad has no additional questions. I think he and my mom are on vacation this week. I should know that.
There are a bunch of little details that I've been able to confirm with the church for the big day, which is a gret feeling. I've got a list of some of the small fees that are associated with the ceremony as well and I'm going to start getting those paid. Not that I think it won't get done, but I think it would make me feel better to get a jump on a few things. And get a few more items off the list.
All these tiny details. And only 7 months. My eye is twitching.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Big Decision
So I've been thinking about the bouquet toss. What should we do? In general I don't really like the bouquet and the garter toss. Plus, I think we're going to have a small number of single ladies at the wedding. If we do a toss to the single ladies, I'd like to do a break-apart bouquet. That way it's still a little different. But I've had some other ideas as well. Maybe we do an anniversary dance and honor the couple who's been married the longest by giving the wife the bouquet. Maybe we ask the married men to come up and toss to them so they can give it to their wives.
It's a tough decision, and really I'm not sure which way to lean. Hence the poll on the side of the page.
What do you think?
It's a tough decision, and really I'm not sure which way to lean. Hence the poll on the side of the page.
What do you think?
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Little Items Off the List
As any bride can attest, the list of questions to answer and little things to do can seem daunting at its best. It's as if everything that gets done leads to three more things to do. This week, so far at least, has been my attempt to get those details under control. Here's a little bit of what I've done since Monday.
* Reviewed photographer websites with Andrew and ranked the photogrpahers who are avaiable on our date.
* Sent photographer details, including pricing information, to my dad for his review. Since he is footing the bill for most of the details, I've given him final veto power on our vendors.
* Contacted three DJ's to confirm availability.
* Again, compiled details to send to my dad about the various packages we could select.
* Contacted our church to confirm what information they need from us in regards to the pastor conducting our ceremony. They have been incredibly easy to work with and have had very few requests for us. Because of this, I like to get things done for them as quickly as I can. I'll have to get the details to them tomorrow.
* I contacted our stationary designer to confirm when we'll be able to pick up our save the dates. I also asked some naggy questions about what item should be next on the list, and whether we could start to pay some of the deposits on the remaining items or if we'd have to wait until we had a confirmed head count. I also asked about adding an item to the list as we'd like to use our monograms as stickers on the out of town guest gift boxes/bags.
* I contacted a local harpist about playing for our ceremony. She is currently available, although we may not need her if my college director is able to play for us. She's got a $100 deposit to hold the date, and I'll have to see what we do about holding her or if we're not going to worry about it.
* I ordered something for the bridesmaids as a part of their gift last week, and it's come in. It looks like I only have one more piece to get for them and the gifts will be ready to take to my parents' house for storage until they're ready to be wrapped and given.
* I filled out the two forms we need to provide our pastor at the beginning of our marriage-prep counseling sessions.
* I signed up for the new member course at the church so that I'll officially be a member by the time of the wedding.
* I called the bakery and booked a consultation for the second weekend in May.
* I booked the tasting for the country club so we can finalize the reception menu, for the same day as the tasting.
* I booked the appointment with the bridal salon to get measured and place the order for my dress.
All this, and I'll still be able to go shopping with my future mother-in-law tonight as our celebration of my birthday. I think I've earned that girls' night I'm planning for Saturday.
* Reviewed photographer websites with Andrew and ranked the photogrpahers who are avaiable on our date.
* Sent photographer details, including pricing information, to my dad for his review. Since he is footing the bill for most of the details, I've given him final veto power on our vendors.
* Contacted three DJ's to confirm availability.
* Again, compiled details to send to my dad about the various packages we could select.
* Contacted our church to confirm what information they need from us in regards to the pastor conducting our ceremony. They have been incredibly easy to work with and have had very few requests for us. Because of this, I like to get things done for them as quickly as I can. I'll have to get the details to them tomorrow.
* I contacted our stationary designer to confirm when we'll be able to pick up our save the dates. I also asked some naggy questions about what item should be next on the list, and whether we could start to pay some of the deposits on the remaining items or if we'd have to wait until we had a confirmed head count. I also asked about adding an item to the list as we'd like to use our monograms as stickers on the out of town guest gift boxes/bags.
* I contacted a local harpist about playing for our ceremony. She is currently available, although we may not need her if my college director is able to play for us. She's got a $100 deposit to hold the date, and I'll have to see what we do about holding her or if we're not going to worry about it.
* I ordered something for the bridesmaids as a part of their gift last week, and it's come in. It looks like I only have one more piece to get for them and the gifts will be ready to take to my parents' house for storage until they're ready to be wrapped and given.
* I filled out the two forms we need to provide our pastor at the beginning of our marriage-prep counseling sessions.
* I signed up for the new member course at the church so that I'll officially be a member by the time of the wedding.
* I called the bakery and booked a consultation for the second weekend in May.
* I booked the tasting for the country club so we can finalize the reception menu, for the same day as the tasting.
* I booked the appointment with the bridal salon to get measured and place the order for my dress.
All this, and I'll still be able to go shopping with my future mother-in-law tonight as our celebration of my birthday. I think I've earned that girls' night I'm planning for Saturday.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Birthday Weekend & Very Calm Evening
Sunday was my birthday, and I spent the day with Andrew. We went to church with his parents and came home for lunch and just relaxed for most of the afternoon. Andrew went out to see a friend of his, or at least so I thought. He came back with our placemats that Crate & Barrel is getting ready to pull from the shelves since they're seasonal, and he didn't want us to miss out on them. He also had a beautiful new vase from Crate & Barrel and the most gorgeous arrangement of flowers I've ever seen. I was so suprised and cried a little when he came in with everything.
We went to dinner at the Corner Wine Bar, down in Broadripple that night. We had a great time. We're looking at going back later this month for one of their wine tasting events.
Yesterday I was surpised with cake at work, always fun. Nothing too interesting happened, but for the first time in a long time, I was completely relaxed last night. No stress left over from work, no worries about the next day. Andrew and I had a great dinner, that he cooked. We watched some TV and then just relaxed with each other.
I pulled up a the websites of the photographers I like who are available on our day, and he wnet through them and told me which ones he liked. I'm sending their details to my dad today so that he can look at them as well. Since he's the one who'll be writing the checks.
With all of that done, I poured a glass of wine, found a comfy spot on the couch, and cuddled up with the puppy who proceeded to curl up on my lap, fall asleep and start snoring, loudly. Not a bad way to spend a Monday night.
We went to dinner at the Corner Wine Bar, down in Broadripple that night. We had a great time. We're looking at going back later this month for one of their wine tasting events.
Yesterday I was surpised with cake at work, always fun. Nothing too interesting happened, but for the first time in a long time, I was completely relaxed last night. No stress left over from work, no worries about the next day. Andrew and I had a great dinner, that he cooked. We watched some TV and then just relaxed with each other.
I pulled up a the websites of the photographers I like who are available on our day, and he wnet through them and told me which ones he liked. I'm sending their details to my dad today so that he can look at them as well. Since he's the one who'll be writing the checks.
With all of that done, I poured a glass of wine, found a comfy spot on the couch, and cuddled up with the puppy who proceeded to curl up on my lap, fall asleep and start snoring, loudly. Not a bad way to spend a Monday night.
Friday, March 7, 2008
So glad that it's Friday
I'm ready for the weekend. This was a pretty busy week to begin with, and especially when you factor in Andrew's accident.
We've got ballroom dance lessons tonight, and then dinner with his parents. So far the lessons have been really fun, and we're getting pretty good with some of the basic steps. We're pretty good with cha-cha and fox trot, still working on swing, and getting very comfortable with a traditional waltz. We weren't able to pick our song before this lesson, so hopefully we'll have that decided for the next one. Kriistina, our instructor has offered to owrk with us to choreograph our first dance. I'm really excited about that. It'll be so much nicer than us just standing there swaying like we're still in seventh grade. I didn't bring my shoes with me this time either, but I think I will for the next class. I may ask Kriistina how soon she thinks I should start practicing in the actual shoes I'll be wearing that day.
After we get home, I think we're in for a very low-key night at home, possibly with one of Andrew's friends coming over, but really I think that's about it.
Tomorrow I have to go the license branch and renew my plates. Not very fun or exciting, but very necessary. The fun part will come after that when I go to get some contact lenses. I've been saying that I want to get them fora while now, and I do want to have them and be comfortable in them before the wedding. I'm kind of excited, but a little nervous too. It's kind of my birthday present to myself.
Yup, I said birthday. Sunday is the big day, I'll be 27. I'm not sure exactly where we're going or hwat we're doing, but I know we're going out to dinner somewhere. It should be fun. It'll be niceto have a Sunday just to the two of us since we're usually pretty busy. We'll see what we wind up with!
We've got ballroom dance lessons tonight, and then dinner with his parents. So far the lessons have been really fun, and we're getting pretty good with some of the basic steps. We're pretty good with cha-cha and fox trot, still working on swing, and getting very comfortable with a traditional waltz. We weren't able to pick our song before this lesson, so hopefully we'll have that decided for the next one. Kriistina, our instructor has offered to owrk with us to choreograph our first dance. I'm really excited about that. It'll be so much nicer than us just standing there swaying like we're still in seventh grade. I didn't bring my shoes with me this time either, but I think I will for the next class. I may ask Kriistina how soon she thinks I should start practicing in the actual shoes I'll be wearing that day.
After we get home, I think we're in for a very low-key night at home, possibly with one of Andrew's friends coming over, but really I think that's about it.
Tomorrow I have to go the license branch and renew my plates. Not very fun or exciting, but very necessary. The fun part will come after that when I go to get some contact lenses. I've been saying that I want to get them fora while now, and I do want to have them and be comfortable in them before the wedding. I'm kind of excited, but a little nervous too. It's kind of my birthday present to myself.
Yup, I said birthday. Sunday is the big day, I'll be 27. I'm not sure exactly where we're going or hwat we're doing, but I know we're going out to dinner somewhere. It should be fun. It'll be niceto have a Sunday just to the two of us since we're usually pretty busy. We'll see what we wind up with!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Close calls
I am incredibly lucky. Andrew was in a pretty bad car accident on Tuesday. I left work early and met him at the ER and stayed with him and his mom until the doctors said he was ok to go home.
He was driving on 465 on his way home from a meeting and the roads were icy and slushy, and the weather was just generally bad. He was in the far left lane, and someone attempted to merge into his lane and cut him off. He braked, which I think anyone would have done, in order to avoid getting hit and lost control of the car as it started to spin. He remembers making eye contact with the driver of the semi behind him and then his car was pushed into the cement median. The entire trunk of his car was smashed in, to a point where it looked like he didn't have one.
I was so scared on my way to the hospital, I had no idea what to expect. He was still strapped to the board that they put him on in the ambulance to restrict movement in case of any serious back/neck damage. He was uncomfortable, but he was ok. After much waiting and a few more x-rays, the doctor came in and told us he was ok.
He's got a few sore muscles, and just a little bruising from the seat belt, but other than that. he's completely ok. I can't imagine what I'd do without him. I'm so glad he's ok.
He was driving on 465 on his way home from a meeting and the roads were icy and slushy, and the weather was just generally bad. He was in the far left lane, and someone attempted to merge into his lane and cut him off. He braked, which I think anyone would have done, in order to avoid getting hit and lost control of the car as it started to spin. He remembers making eye contact with the driver of the semi behind him and then his car was pushed into the cement median. The entire trunk of his car was smashed in, to a point where it looked like he didn't have one.
I was so scared on my way to the hospital, I had no idea what to expect. He was still strapped to the board that they put him on in the ambulance to restrict movement in case of any serious back/neck damage. He was uncomfortable, but he was ok. After much waiting and a few more x-rays, the doctor came in and told us he was ok.
He's got a few sore muscles, and just a little bruising from the seat belt, but other than that. he's completely ok. I can't imagine what I'd do without him. I'm so glad he's ok.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Shoes just arrived!!!!
So we got home last night and we've got a note on our door that UPS tried to deliver a package for me. This afternoon Andrew swung by the apartment office and picked it up. I ask him who it's from and he says Lindsay something from Hague Bridge. I pause and ask if it could be "Haute Bride." He says, oh yeah, that could be it.
I ordered the shoes about a week ago when they were having a big online sale. FABULOUS discounts on some amazing shoes. I saved nearly $100, including the cost of shipping the shoes from California to Indiana. They are exactly what I was looking for and in perfect condition after the shipping. www.hautebride.com
My beautiful shoes are here! Along with a fiance who apparently cannot read.
I ordered the shoes about a week ago when they were having a big online sale. FABULOUS discounts on some amazing shoes. I saved nearly $100, including the cost of shipping the shoes from California to Indiana. They are exactly what I was looking for and in perfect condition after the shipping. www.hautebride.com
My beautiful shoes are here! Along with a fiance who apparently cannot read.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Random Recipes that Come from Our Kithcen #1
So we're sitting at home trying to decide what to have for dinner. We had a pretty random assortment of half-full jars in the fridge and didn't want to go grocery shopping. Andrew decides to grab some pork chops that we'd planning to use this week and just make something up. Here's what our dinner turned out to be:
Breaded pork chops with sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled Feta cheese on top; served over a bed of fresh mushrooms and baby spinach, with blue cheese mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli on the side.
It was awesome. I just finished a few left-overs that I brough into the office for lunch. Still incredibly tasty.
I think this means I'm in charge of cooking tonight.
Breaded pork chops with sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled Feta cheese on top; served over a bed of fresh mushrooms and baby spinach, with blue cheese mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli on the side.
It was awesome. I just finished a few left-overs that I brough into the office for lunch. Still incredibly tasty.
I think this means I'm in charge of cooking tonight.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Not So Busy Weekend
For the first weekend in about 3 months, Andrew and I weren't booked solid from Friday night to Sunday night. We had a chance to be lazy on Saturday morning, even letting the puppy hang out on the bed with us while we watched some cartoons. We were able to take our time running errands and doing some chores around the apartment, and we totally took advantage of the beautiful day and went for an hour-long walk with Loki. He was so excited to play outside! We went out on Saturday and slept in again on Sunday morning. That doesn't happen nearly as often as I think it should!
We were able to go through some things for the wedding, and it looks like we've narrowed own our list of possible photographers. We also got some possible dates narrowed down for the shower his aunt is hosting. I made the second edition of our bridal party newsletter and sent it out to everyone.
This week will be a little more busy than last week, but it's all still pretty fun!
I got an email from my cousin Stephanie over the weekend and decided that I need to do a better job keeping up with everyone. It's always been a little bit hard since I was in Chicago and now Indy and they're in Philadelphia, but we're all basically grown ups now, so it should be possible to stay in touch at least. I'm not sure how I'll do it, but I'll try and come up with something. Even if all it turns out to be is sending emails or making phone calls, it'll be better than what I'm doing now. I miss everyone, and it's hard to imagine that they've only met Andrew once. I'd like for them to see him at least once more before the wedding. I think we'll be able to go in June when my two youngest cousins graduate from high school. We'll see what I can work out.
We were able to go through some things for the wedding, and it looks like we've narrowed own our list of possible photographers. We also got some possible dates narrowed down for the shower his aunt is hosting. I made the second edition of our bridal party newsletter and sent it out to everyone.
This week will be a little more busy than last week, but it's all still pretty fun!
I got an email from my cousin Stephanie over the weekend and decided that I need to do a better job keeping up with everyone. It's always been a little bit hard since I was in Chicago and now Indy and they're in Philadelphia, but we're all basically grown ups now, so it should be possible to stay in touch at least. I'm not sure how I'll do it, but I'll try and come up with something. Even if all it turns out to be is sending emails or making phone calls, it'll be better than what I'm doing now. I miss everyone, and it's hard to imagine that they've only met Andrew once. I'd like for them to see him at least once more before the wedding. I think we'll be able to go in June when my two youngest cousins graduate from high school. We'll see what I can work out.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Bridal Beauty
I saw this article this morning. It's pretty scary how far some girls will go to look "their best" on the big day.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/115866
Don't get me wrong, I'll be getting a professional stylist to do my hair, and my make-up. But really that's about as far out of the ordinary I'm willing to go. Eating better and excercising are things I should be doing anyway, but I'm not going to push myself so far that I wind up risking my health.
People can get really carried away.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/115866
Don't get me wrong, I'll be getting a professional stylist to do my hair, and my make-up. But really that's about as far out of the ordinary I'm willing to go. Eating better and excercising are things I should be doing anyway, but I'm not going to push myself so far that I wind up risking my health.
People can get really carried away.
Monday, February 25, 2008
I'm like a gecko on a hot plate
Originally Posted Feb. 22, 2008
Seriously, I cannnot focus right now. I don't know if it's because yesterday was really busy and I didn't get a break, but I'm all over the place. My desk looks like a disaster area and I keep writing down stuff for one project on the notes I took for another. This does not bode well for the organization I was planning on doing at home tonight.
Maybe some classical music in the car and a glass of wine when I get home will help me slow down my thoughts a little bit. I may have to go out to the car and get the music just to help me focus throughout the day.
Maybe I just need a night off from all of the wedding planning, apartment reorganization and starting a Mary Kay consulting business. Yeah, I may have bitten off just a bit more than I can chew this week.
Seriously, I cannnot focus right now. I don't know if it's because yesterday was really busy and I didn't get a break, but I'm all over the place. My desk looks like a disaster area and I keep writing down stuff for one project on the notes I took for another. This does not bode well for the organization I was planning on doing at home tonight.
Maybe some classical music in the car and a glass of wine when I get home will help me slow down my thoughts a little bit. I may have to go out to the car and get the music just to help me focus throughout the day.
Maybe I just need a night off from all of the wedding planning, apartment reorganization and starting a Mary Kay consulting business. Yeah, I may have bitten off just a bit more than I can chew this week.
Classic
Originally Posted feb. 20, 2008
So we're watching American Idol when my wonderful fiance says this: "Someone should make a cartoon of Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell. They could solve crimes. I would totally watch that." I'm a lucky girl.
So we're watching American Idol when my wonderful fiance says this: "Someone should make a cartoon of Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell. They could solve crimes. I would totally watch that." I'm a lucky girl.
Recap of the big weekend- part 3
Originally Posted Feb. 11, 2008
Sunday we got up, and relaxed just a little. Andrew and I made breakfast for my parents and then went to the hotel to get his mom and dad so we could show them the church. We got their a few minutes before the service ended, so we had some time to look around the building. The Baker Memorial Church is beautiful. Stained glass windows, marble floors, granite walls, intricate woodwork, high ceilings with thick beams, and a gorgeous organ. It's not a huge sanctuary so we'll be able to keep a pretty intimate feeling between us and our guests. Everyone is thrilled with the church. I can't wait to get married there. Andrew really likes it too, which means a lot to me. He said he coudn't ask for anything more in a church.
After going to church it was back to my parents' house for some coffee before heading over to Eaglebrook Country Club, where we're having the reception. They were having a tasting event/mini bridal expo for some of their 2008 brides & grooms. The six of us went and got a chance to sample their most popular menu items, see a sample of their linen selections, and meet with some of their preferred vendors. We had a blast. Everyone tried something different from their menu, and I think we came up with our favorites for our menu. We may have found a DJ for the big day. He's a really fun guy and is happy to work with any level of interaction we choose. We were able to see some of the linen combinations and I think we have one that we can all agree with.
It seems like the biggest fight we'll have is going to be over reception chairs. Seem silly to you, or is it just me? My mom wants to rent chairs rather than use the covers provided. My dad thinks that's going to be too much money for something nobody besides my mom will notice. I agree with my dad. I know my mom doesn't care for the traditional chair cover with the sash tied in back, so what we tried while we were there is taking the sash and tying it on the side. This way the sash goes at an angle across the back of the chair and te colored tails hang off to the side. To me it's a pretty good compromise. My mom's still pushing for the other chairs, but we'll see. I think we could probably get a martini luge for the price of renting other chairs and that's a detail guests would be talking about for years. Or a chocolate fountain. Or both! We'll just have to see how the great chair saga unfolds.
Sunday we got up, and relaxed just a little. Andrew and I made breakfast for my parents and then went to the hotel to get his mom and dad so we could show them the church. We got their a few minutes before the service ended, so we had some time to look around the building. The Baker Memorial Church is beautiful. Stained glass windows, marble floors, granite walls, intricate woodwork, high ceilings with thick beams, and a gorgeous organ. It's not a huge sanctuary so we'll be able to keep a pretty intimate feeling between us and our guests. Everyone is thrilled with the church. I can't wait to get married there. Andrew really likes it too, which means a lot to me. He said he coudn't ask for anything more in a church.
After going to church it was back to my parents' house for some coffee before heading over to Eaglebrook Country Club, where we're having the reception. They were having a tasting event/mini bridal expo for some of their 2008 brides & grooms. The six of us went and got a chance to sample their most popular menu items, see a sample of their linen selections, and meet with some of their preferred vendors. We had a blast. Everyone tried something different from their menu, and I think we came up with our favorites for our menu. We may have found a DJ for the big day. He's a really fun guy and is happy to work with any level of interaction we choose. We were able to see some of the linen combinations and I think we have one that we can all agree with.
It seems like the biggest fight we'll have is going to be over reception chairs. Seem silly to you, or is it just me? My mom wants to rent chairs rather than use the covers provided. My dad thinks that's going to be too much money for something nobody besides my mom will notice. I agree with my dad. I know my mom doesn't care for the traditional chair cover with the sash tied in back, so what we tried while we were there is taking the sash and tying it on the side. This way the sash goes at an angle across the back of the chair and te colored tails hang off to the side. To me it's a pretty good compromise. My mom's still pushing for the other chairs, but we'll see. I think we could probably get a martini luge for the price of renting other chairs and that's a detail guests would be talking about for years. Or a chocolate fountain. Or both! We'll just have to see how the great chair saga unfolds.
Recap of the big weekend- part 2
Originally Posted Feb. 11, 2008
So the meeting with the florist was great. We met up with Andrew's parents and all six of us (me, Andrew, my parents, his parents) had a nice lunch at my mom's favorite restaurant in town, Foxfire. Thus begins the wine drinking of the day (hey, it was 5:00 somewhere right?). Great lunch and we got to spend some time with the owner. He totally made a fuss over Andrew's parents which made mine feel very proud of our little town.
After lunch my mom and I took Andrew's mom into the bridal shop to see my dress and the bridesmaid dress. Veiled in Elegance is literally nextdoor to the restaurant so the boys weren't abandoned for too long. We were all very girly and looked at jewelry and shoes and anything else that was sparkly or bridey. We asked Kathy, the shop owner, for a recommendation on men's formal wear in town. We took her suggestion and then walked up to the store.
The men's shop, Erday's, was only three short blocks away. But it was maybe 5-below, and very windy. Ahhh the joy that is Chicago in winter. So we were thrilled to get out of the cold an into the store. There was some selection of formal wear to choose from, but no samples to try. We know we can go there, but we'd still like to test out some of the looks before Andrew commits to any of the styles. Fortunately the ones he liked are some we'll be able to try on in Indy and then we can decide later if we want to order them here or in Geneva.
After that it was back to the hotel and home to change for the meeting and dinner at the rehearsal dinner location, the Hotel Baker in St. Charles. They're under construction, so it was a little difficult to move around, but the space already looks beautiful. It's a hotel built in the 1920's that's having their banquet room restored. We wanted to do the reception there, but it can't hold more than 150 people. It's right down the street from the church so it'll be very easy for everyone to get to. The food is fantastic- it's actually my dad's favorite restaurant in town. I know the rehearsal dinner will go very smoothly.
We wanted to eat there but due to the construction their menu has been drastically reduced. Geneva & St. Charles have a great selection of restaurants that are all locally owned- so no chains- so we decided to get another view of the area and went to dinner at Mill Race Inn. Of course, the wine drinking continued for a bit before we did. I've been going to Mill Race with my parents since I can remember and their new owner is doing some wonderful things with their menu. Everyone enjoyed their dinner, and no one passed up dessert... or the wine.
We called it an early night so Andrew's parents could head back to their hotel and relax, a very easy thing to do at the Herrington. Then it was up bright and early Sunday morning to go to the church. That'll be part 3.
So the meeting with the florist was great. We met up with Andrew's parents and all six of us (me, Andrew, my parents, his parents) had a nice lunch at my mom's favorite restaurant in town, Foxfire. Thus begins the wine drinking of the day (hey, it was 5:00 somewhere right?). Great lunch and we got to spend some time with the owner. He totally made a fuss over Andrew's parents which made mine feel very proud of our little town.
After lunch my mom and I took Andrew's mom into the bridal shop to see my dress and the bridesmaid dress. Veiled in Elegance is literally nextdoor to the restaurant so the boys weren't abandoned for too long. We were all very girly and looked at jewelry and shoes and anything else that was sparkly or bridey. We asked Kathy, the shop owner, for a recommendation on men's formal wear in town. We took her suggestion and then walked up to the store.
The men's shop, Erday's, was only three short blocks away. But it was maybe 5-below, and very windy. Ahhh the joy that is Chicago in winter. So we were thrilled to get out of the cold an into the store. There was some selection of formal wear to choose from, but no samples to try. We know we can go there, but we'd still like to test out some of the looks before Andrew commits to any of the styles. Fortunately the ones he liked are some we'll be able to try on in Indy and then we can decide later if we want to order them here or in Geneva.
After that it was back to the hotel and home to change for the meeting and dinner at the rehearsal dinner location, the Hotel Baker in St. Charles. They're under construction, so it was a little difficult to move around, but the space already looks beautiful. It's a hotel built in the 1920's that's having their banquet room restored. We wanted to do the reception there, but it can't hold more than 150 people. It's right down the street from the church so it'll be very easy for everyone to get to. The food is fantastic- it's actually my dad's favorite restaurant in town. I know the rehearsal dinner will go very smoothly.
We wanted to eat there but due to the construction their menu has been drastically reduced. Geneva & St. Charles have a great selection of restaurants that are all locally owned- so no chains- so we decided to get another view of the area and went to dinner at Mill Race Inn. Of course, the wine drinking continued for a bit before we did. I've been going to Mill Race with my parents since I can remember and their new owner is doing some wonderful things with their menu. Everyone enjoyed their dinner, and no one passed up dessert... or the wine.
We called it an early night so Andrew's parents could head back to their hotel and relax, a very easy thing to do at the Herrington. Then it was up bright and early Sunday morning to go to the church. That'll be part 3.
Recap of the big weekend- part 1
Originally Posted Feb. 11, 2008
First off- I'm exhausted! I cannot wait to get home from work and just relax and spend some time with Andrew without our parents. It'll also be hte first time we've seen the fuzzy dog since last week. I think we're more excited to have him at home than he is! But it was all worth it for everything we got accomplished.
It'll be a long post, so I'll split it up into a few key areas. Saturday morning Andrew went with my mom and me to meet with our florist. Elizabeht Wray is amazing. I cannot say enough about her professionalism, her designs, and her ability to help my mom relax. Mom's a little worried about everything- even the stuff that's 6 months away. Elizabeth took the time to get to know Andrew and I a little better so that her designs will be a good fit for us. She's also agreed, via a second contract, to be our week of coordinator. I'll continue to make the plans and arrangements, but won't have to worry about a thing the week before the wedding. I love that.
She's already started to make some phone calls about additional parking near the church for the ceremony. The town we're getting married in just changed the date of their fall festival to the weekend of the wedding. It was originally scheduled for the week before. On one hand, GRRR. On the other, it'll give our out of town guests something to do on Saturday morning before the wedding and on Sunday if they're still in town, slightly quieter GRRR.
She was able to walk us through the items she typically puts together for weddings and how she plans to use the items from the church at the reception. I love the idea of getting additiona use out of them. It'll be something simple; like the tall arrangements that go along the candle sticks on the sides of the pews will be grouped together to make our taller centerpieces. We'll use the bridesmaids' and my bouquet as the centerpieces on the head table.
By going through her list, and giving her our favorite flowers and flowers I've seen in pictures that I like, she was able to give us a rough estimate for the wedding. We actually came in less than what my mom expected. Still a lot of money, but we're doing a great job with the budget so far. I left her with several pages of pictures that we all liked so she has something to use as inspiration. Though she really doesn't need any.
Funny side note about the meeting: I'd been running around my parents' house making sure that I had everything ready for this meeting and the rest of the day. We get out to Andrew's car when he turns to me and starts to laugh. My mom looks over at me and also starts to laugh. I get a bit paranoid and can't seem to see what's so funny about my sweater and jeans combination. Then I saw it- I was still wearing my red plaid bedroom slippers.
First off- I'm exhausted! I cannot wait to get home from work and just relax and spend some time with Andrew without our parents. It'll also be hte first time we've seen the fuzzy dog since last week. I think we're more excited to have him at home than he is! But it was all worth it for everything we got accomplished.
It'll be a long post, so I'll split it up into a few key areas. Saturday morning Andrew went with my mom and me to meet with our florist. Elizabeht Wray is amazing. I cannot say enough about her professionalism, her designs, and her ability to help my mom relax. Mom's a little worried about everything- even the stuff that's 6 months away. Elizabeth took the time to get to know Andrew and I a little better so that her designs will be a good fit for us. She's also agreed, via a second contract, to be our week of coordinator. I'll continue to make the plans and arrangements, but won't have to worry about a thing the week before the wedding. I love that.
She's already started to make some phone calls about additional parking near the church for the ceremony. The town we're getting married in just changed the date of their fall festival to the weekend of the wedding. It was originally scheduled for the week before. On one hand, GRRR. On the other, it'll give our out of town guests something to do on Saturday morning before the wedding and on Sunday if they're still in town, slightly quieter GRRR.
She was able to walk us through the items she typically puts together for weddings and how she plans to use the items from the church at the reception. I love the idea of getting additiona use out of them. It'll be something simple; like the tall arrangements that go along the candle sticks on the sides of the pews will be grouped together to make our taller centerpieces. We'll use the bridesmaids' and my bouquet as the centerpieces on the head table.
By going through her list, and giving her our favorite flowers and flowers I've seen in pictures that I like, she was able to give us a rough estimate for the wedding. We actually came in less than what my mom expected. Still a lot of money, but we're doing a great job with the budget so far. I left her with several pages of pictures that we all liked so she has something to use as inspiration. Though she really doesn't need any.
Funny side note about the meeting: I'd been running around my parents' house making sure that I had everything ready for this meeting and the rest of the day. We get out to Andrew's car when he turns to me and starts to laugh. My mom looks over at me and also starts to laugh. I get a bit paranoid and can't seem to see what's so funny about my sweater and jeans combination. Then I saw it- I was still wearing my red plaid bedroom slippers.
Big Weekend Coming Up
Originally Posted Feb. 8, 2008
I'm having a little toruble focusing at work today. Andrew and I are headed into Geneva tonight to spend the weekend with my parents. His parents are coming in tomorrow, so we'll have a chance to show them around.
We'll be meeting with the florist on Saturday morning, and then going over to the place for the rehearsal dinner in the afternoon. We're going to look at the church and the country club for the reception on Sunday. The club is doing a tasting event for several couples with some of their vendors as well. It'll be like a mini bridal show. I can't wait to get our mom's together and get things really started. I'm so excited! It's all starting to feel like it's real.
I'm planning on sending something cute to my bridesmaids for Valentine's Day, probably a little email to say hi with a cute e-card kind of thing. I'm thinking about putting a little slideshow together for them. 'Cause that's really what I need right now, something else to distract me from work. I'm hoping to get their final vote on the dress this week as well. I've been able to find it on NetBride for almost $50 less than what it is in the store where I got my dress, including the discount the girls would get. I'd love to get them ordered sometime between now and March. From what other knotties have said, NetBride has a great turnaround, but I'd like to make sure everyone has enough time. The only exception will be my MOH.
Since she's pregnant, I'd like to make sure she's comfortable ordering whatever size she might need for the wedding. She'll have given birth by the wedding, but we don't know how/where she's going to gain weight yet. Her mom is a seamstress so she'll be able to make some adjustments pretty easily. But with the dress being black, I don't see a problem if she wanted to wait a little while as far as having the concern over the colors being from the same dye-lot.
We'll also be able to get the parents' final vote for the invitations and the save the dates. I'd like to get the order placed for the STDs this weekend or early next week. We've gotta get them out this month, so we're cutting it kind of closer than I want.
We also have to finish our guest list. I'm sure some items will change, like who's bringing a guest and who isn't. But for the most part, I need to know who's getting STDs sent to them. If we can, I'd like to sit down with my mom's address book and get as many of the addresses filled in as we can. Even if all we have is a phone number, I'm happy to make the phone calls over lunch to get what we need.
Lots to do in the next few days. We'll see how it turns out!
I'm having a little toruble focusing at work today. Andrew and I are headed into Geneva tonight to spend the weekend with my parents. His parents are coming in tomorrow, so we'll have a chance to show them around.
We'll be meeting with the florist on Saturday morning, and then going over to the place for the rehearsal dinner in the afternoon. We're going to look at the church and the country club for the reception on Sunday. The club is doing a tasting event for several couples with some of their vendors as well. It'll be like a mini bridal show. I can't wait to get our mom's together and get things really started. I'm so excited! It's all starting to feel like it's real.
I'm planning on sending something cute to my bridesmaids for Valentine's Day, probably a little email to say hi with a cute e-card kind of thing. I'm thinking about putting a little slideshow together for them. 'Cause that's really what I need right now, something else to distract me from work. I'm hoping to get their final vote on the dress this week as well. I've been able to find it on NetBride for almost $50 less than what it is in the store where I got my dress, including the discount the girls would get. I'd love to get them ordered sometime between now and March. From what other knotties have said, NetBride has a great turnaround, but I'd like to make sure everyone has enough time. The only exception will be my MOH.
Since she's pregnant, I'd like to make sure she's comfortable ordering whatever size she might need for the wedding. She'll have given birth by the wedding, but we don't know how/where she's going to gain weight yet. Her mom is a seamstress so she'll be able to make some adjustments pretty easily. But with the dress being black, I don't see a problem if she wanted to wait a little while as far as having the concern over the colors being from the same dye-lot.
We'll also be able to get the parents' final vote for the invitations and the save the dates. I'd like to get the order placed for the STDs this weekend or early next week. We've gotta get them out this month, so we're cutting it kind of closer than I want.
We also have to finish our guest list. I'm sure some items will change, like who's bringing a guest and who isn't. But for the most part, I need to know who's getting STDs sent to them. If we can, I'd like to sit down with my mom's address book and get as many of the addresses filled in as we can. Even if all we have is a phone number, I'm happy to make the phone calls over lunch to get what we need.
Lots to do in the next few days. We'll see how it turns out!
Room Block is Set!
Originally Posted Feb. 6, 2008
Our room blocks for our guests are set. It feels so good to have this accomplished. It's kind of a big deal since the majority of our guests will be coming in from out of town.
The hotels that I'm working with are the Fairfield Inn & Suites and the Comfort Inn & Suites, and both hotels have been great so far. They've reduced their regular room rates by $20/night for guests at our wedding. We've got the maximum of 10 rooms at each, but both will be able to add more as we go if we need them, which I'm certain we will. We'll get guest lists so we can confirm who's got their room and who doesn't, so we know who to call and remind.
I've put the information up on our website, which is where we're keeping all of the details about our wedding so that it's easy for our guests to find. Of course we'll still get questions, and not everyone will look at the website, but for those who do, we'll be in good shape.
Our room blocks for our guests are set. It feels so good to have this accomplished. It's kind of a big deal since the majority of our guests will be coming in from out of town.
The hotels that I'm working with are the Fairfield Inn & Suites and the Comfort Inn & Suites, and both hotels have been great so far. They've reduced their regular room rates by $20/night for guests at our wedding. We've got the maximum of 10 rooms at each, but both will be able to add more as we go if we need them, which I'm certain we will. We'll get guest lists so we can confirm who's got their room and who doesn't, so we know who to call and remind.
I've put the information up on our website, which is where we're keeping all of the details about our wedding so that it's easy for our guests to find. Of course we'll still get questions, and not everyone will look at the website, but for those who do, we'll be in good shape.
Progress and Professional Football
Originally Posted Feb. 4, 2008
We had a fanTAStic meeting with our stationery designer this weekend. She's been able to take all of our ideas and combine them into everything we'll need to have printed for the wedding. We're going to be able to place the orders in stages, so we'll have a better grasp of the exact numbers, and we'll be able to spread the cost out as well.
Our designer is awesome! If anyone in Indy is looking for someone who can do custom invitations at a reasonable price, I highly recommend Card Ink in Zionsville. Jen is very flexible and open to your ideas, which makes the process so much more enjoyable and personal. http://www.cardink.net/main.html She's given us samples of the invitation and save the date for us to take to my parents this weekend. Since they're paying for at them, I'd like to get their buy-in before we officially place an order and make a payment. We've shown them to his parents and they really liked them. I'll try and get a bio started and some pictures up of everything as we're going along. That should be a fun lunchtime at work project.
We also went to Bed Bath and Beyond and did some more work on our registry. We picked our china and crystal- both of which are amazing. It's Waterford, but reasonable. We picked out some linens while we were there and some other fun house things. It got a little overwhelming towards the end, but we had a great time. He and I agree that we'll want to do another sweep through Crate & Barrel, but really the rest of the updates can be done online. Again, something for me to do over lunch in the office.
On a completely unrelated note- we got a much needed break from wedding things weekend when we went to a friend's place for the game last night. Such a great game! Tons of excitement, both teams played great, and in the end we were all pretty proud of Peyton's little brother. The saddest part for me is that the season's over. I love football, it's probably my favorite sport to watch. Well, at least there's hope that next year will be the Bears' year. I'm a diehard Chicago fan... I say that every year!
We had a fanTAStic meeting with our stationery designer this weekend. She's been able to take all of our ideas and combine them into everything we'll need to have printed for the wedding. We're going to be able to place the orders in stages, so we'll have a better grasp of the exact numbers, and we'll be able to spread the cost out as well.
Our designer is awesome! If anyone in Indy is looking for someone who can do custom invitations at a reasonable price, I highly recommend Card Ink in Zionsville. Jen is very flexible and open to your ideas, which makes the process so much more enjoyable and personal. http://www.cardink.net/main.html She's given us samples of the invitation and save the date for us to take to my parents this weekend. Since they're paying for at them, I'd like to get their buy-in before we officially place an order and make a payment. We've shown them to his parents and they really liked them. I'll try and get a bio started and some pictures up of everything as we're going along. That should be a fun lunchtime at work project.
We also went to Bed Bath and Beyond and did some more work on our registry. We picked our china and crystal- both of which are amazing. It's Waterford, but reasonable. We picked out some linens while we were there and some other fun house things. It got a little overwhelming towards the end, but we had a great time. He and I agree that we'll want to do another sweep through Crate & Barrel, but really the rest of the updates can be done online. Again, something for me to do over lunch in the office.
On a completely unrelated note- we got a much needed break from wedding things weekend when we went to a friend's place for the game last night. Such a great game! Tons of excitement, both teams played great, and in the end we were all pretty proud of Peyton's little brother. The saddest part for me is that the season's over. I love football, it's probably my favorite sport to watch. Well, at least there's hope that next year will be the Bears' year. I'm a diehard Chicago fan... I say that every year!
How Sweet is My Dad?
Originally Posted Jan. 31, 2008
I just got off the phone with my mom who let me know that she found her dress. It's a rich midnight blue color with an off-the-shoulder neckline and 3/4 length sleeves. It's got a long straight skirt with a little bit of movement to it. The top is ruched, very flattering, and across the beckline there are these tiny blue beads sewn in. She's not extremely sparkly like with sequins, but every time she moves she shimmers a little. I've seen her in it before, and people were actually crossing the store to compliment her.
So she called to keep me updated on that and to let me know about something my dad said this weekend over dinner. They were talking a little about the wedding, and my dad asked my mom to do him a favor on the day of the wedding. My dad isn't one to ask for anything, so she knew it was important to him, whatever it was. He asked if she thought the bridesmaids would mind if he stood in front of them a little before we all come in, just for a minute so he can watch my mom walk down the aisle. He explained that he still remembers how excited, happy, and lucky he felt the first time he saw her walk down the aisle at their wedding 34 years ago and he doesn't want to miss it this time. He also asked if she wouldn't mind turning around just before going into the pew so he can see her smile.
Needless to say, she cried and said she would. Heck, I'm tearing up a little right now!
I just got off the phone with my mom who let me know that she found her dress. It's a rich midnight blue color with an off-the-shoulder neckline and 3/4 length sleeves. It's got a long straight skirt with a little bit of movement to it. The top is ruched, very flattering, and across the beckline there are these tiny blue beads sewn in. She's not extremely sparkly like with sequins, but every time she moves she shimmers a little. I've seen her in it before, and people were actually crossing the store to compliment her.
So she called to keep me updated on that and to let me know about something my dad said this weekend over dinner. They were talking a little about the wedding, and my dad asked my mom to do him a favor on the day of the wedding. My dad isn't one to ask for anything, so she knew it was important to him, whatever it was. He asked if she thought the bridesmaids would mind if he stood in front of them a little before we all come in, just for a minute so he can watch my mom walk down the aisle. He explained that he still remembers how excited, happy, and lucky he felt the first time he saw her walk down the aisle at their wedding 34 years ago and he doesn't want to miss it this time. He also asked if she wouldn't mind turning around just before going into the pew so he can see her smile.
Needless to say, she cried and said she would. Heck, I'm tearing up a little right now!
Gift Registries and Good Friends
Originally Posted Jan 31, 1008We went to Crate and Barrel last weekend for one of their wedding party events. We had a blast! Registering for the event was really easy, just a phone call, and then when we got there, our names were on a list and we got checked off. The entire store was closed to everyone else, so we had tons of space to register. There were about a dozen couples there, and almost as many staff members, so there was always someone to help. We had mimosas, it was 9am, and some snacky things as the staff explained what we'd be doing over the next 2 hrs. Each couple got a scanner and we were sent off on our way around the store. We were able to see some demonstrations of the kitchen appliances and had some more snacks. Very fun.
I'd pulled a list of what to register for from a bridal magazine which gave us a great place to start from. We got a list from CB after we were done so I've combined them into one master list for us. (I'm a nerd, I can't help it.) We went through our apt the night before and crossed off some of the things we knew we wouldn't really need. We're not big mint julep fans, so mint julep glasses didn't stay on the list. He got a brand new set of pots and pans for Christmas last year so we're great on those. Living on our own before moving in together really covered some of the basic kitchen items, but we still had plenty to choose from. The idea of having silverware that all matches is totally new to us. We were able to give a pretty good price range, which I know our families and friends will appreciate. We'll be hitting Bed Bath & Beyond this weekend to finish up.
In the meantime, we're planning two trips- one for him and one for me. I'm heading up to visit two of my BMs and will probably invite a third to make the trip with me. I'm only going about an hour away, so no big travelling. But the past couple of times we've hung out, they've come to Indy for me, so I'd like to return the favor. He's heading to St. Louis to visit one of his GM and I think there are a few other guys heading out as well. He'll be gone the whole weekend, and I think he's already getting excited. We've been swamped trying to get things done over the weekends- ok I have, and trying to find time to see people. We used to be really spontaneous about getting together and hanging out with everyone, but now we're pretty driven by the calendar. I know it'll calm down once we've gotten some more of the planning out of the way. And really, it's flattering that so many of our friends want to spend time with us during the planning process. It gives me hope that I'm not driving everyone crazy!
I'd pulled a list of what to register for from a bridal magazine which gave us a great place to start from. We got a list from CB after we were done so I've combined them into one master list for us. (I'm a nerd, I can't help it.) We went through our apt the night before and crossed off some of the things we knew we wouldn't really need. We're not big mint julep fans, so mint julep glasses didn't stay on the list. He got a brand new set of pots and pans for Christmas last year so we're great on those. Living on our own before moving in together really covered some of the basic kitchen items, but we still had plenty to choose from. The idea of having silverware that all matches is totally new to us. We were able to give a pretty good price range, which I know our families and friends will appreciate. We'll be hitting Bed Bath & Beyond this weekend to finish up.
In the meantime, we're planning two trips- one for him and one for me. I'm heading up to visit two of my BMs and will probably invite a third to make the trip with me. I'm only going about an hour away, so no big travelling. But the past couple of times we've hung out, they've come to Indy for me, so I'd like to return the favor. He's heading to St. Louis to visit one of his GM and I think there are a few other guys heading out as well. He'll be gone the whole weekend, and I think he's already getting excited. We've been swamped trying to get things done over the weekends- ok I have, and trying to find time to see people. We used to be really spontaneous about getting together and hanging out with everyone, but now we're pretty driven by the calendar. I know it'll calm down once we've gotten some more of the planning out of the way. And really, it's flattering that so many of our friends want to spend time with us during the planning process. It gives me hope that I'm not driving everyone crazy!
Little Black Dresses
Originally Posted Jan. 28, 2008
My bridesmaids are very receptive to my request that they wear black dresses at the wedding. Since we're going formal, I think the black will be very elegant, not to mention flattering and very re-wearable. I've sent them a link to the dress I'm leaning towards to get their feedback and so far four of the seven have already responded that they love it. (Such a good start!)
Here it is, http://www.dessy.com/dresses/bridesmaid/6525/. The picture shows it in blue, which is also nice, but we're going for the black. The way the straps almost cross in the back is exactly like what the straps on my dress do, and being a design oriented corporate communications person, I love that! I love the little details that tie everything together.
Anyway, I saw this text in a magazine spread about little black dresses and thought it was a nice fit for what we're doing.
"There's something bewitching about a black dress. Simple and sophisticated it manages to look right every time. And though the LBD has been a hallmark of style since Coco Chanel popularized it in 1926, it's still fresh and modern. And thoroughly enchanting."
My bridesmaids are very receptive to my request that they wear black dresses at the wedding. Since we're going formal, I think the black will be very elegant, not to mention flattering and very re-wearable. I've sent them a link to the dress I'm leaning towards to get their feedback and so far four of the seven have already responded that they love it. (Such a good start!)
Here it is, http://www.dessy.com/dresses/bridesmaid/6525/. The picture shows it in blue, which is also nice, but we're going for the black. The way the straps almost cross in the back is exactly like what the straps on my dress do, and being a design oriented corporate communications person, I love that! I love the little details that tie everything together.
Anyway, I saw this text in a magazine spread about little black dresses and thought it was a nice fit for what we're doing.
"There's something bewitching about a black dress. Simple and sophisticated it manages to look right every time. And though the LBD has been a hallmark of style since Coco Chanel popularized it in 1926, it's still fresh and modern. And thoroughly enchanting."
Progress and Hold-Ups
Originally Posted Jan. 25, 2008
So far today has been crazy productive considering it's 11am on a Friday and we're both working. I love it when that happens! I came into work and checked my email to find that I had the contracts from the hotels in the area t oset up our room blocks for our guests. I'll go over them in greater detail this weekend and then sign and fax back first thing on Monday.
Then I get an email from my honey letting me know that our pastor will be able to come from Indianapolis to hicago for our ceremony. I say that he's our pastor since we go to church together, but really he's the pastor Andrew grew up with. I'm pretty new to the crowd. He's going to be wonderful. We need to get him the information for the church and vice versa since he's not their pastor. The church is really easygoing about this type of thing, which is a huge help to us.
I got an email from my former director- I sang in college- letting me know that he'd love to play for our reception. I've got to email him back with the specifics and then set up a time for us to meet and go over the ceremony music selections. We need to keep secular stuff out, according to the church rules, which is fine. There are still a lot of beautiful pieces he can play for us. He's a concert pianist and frequently plays with Manheim Steamroller.
I was a little bummed that I hadn't seen one of my BMs lately. I heard from her this morning and it turns out that her work shcedule has been crazy and changing a lot over the past few weeks. She's an OR nurse so I can completely see how that many changes can take a lot our of her even more than just being in the operating room for 12 hours a day. We're getting together tonight so she can show me some pictures of a wedding she was in on New Year's Eve. I'm so glad that she's back!
With all this going well, it reminded me that I should call another one of my BMs. She's a photographer and came up a while back to do some engagement photos for us. We'd like to use them with our save the dates and probably some other printed items. She and I keep missing chances for her to get the photos to me. We'll have to get better at that!
So far today has been crazy productive considering it's 11am on a Friday and we're both working. I love it when that happens! I came into work and checked my email to find that I had the contracts from the hotels in the area t oset up our room blocks for our guests. I'll go over them in greater detail this weekend and then sign and fax back first thing on Monday.
Then I get an email from my honey letting me know that our pastor will be able to come from Indianapolis to hicago for our ceremony. I say that he's our pastor since we go to church together, but really he's the pastor Andrew grew up with. I'm pretty new to the crowd. He's going to be wonderful. We need to get him the information for the church and vice versa since he's not their pastor. The church is really easygoing about this type of thing, which is a huge help to us.
I got an email from my former director- I sang in college- letting me know that he'd love to play for our reception. I've got to email him back with the specifics and then set up a time for us to meet and go over the ceremony music selections. We need to keep secular stuff out, according to the church rules, which is fine. There are still a lot of beautiful pieces he can play for us. He's a concert pianist and frequently plays with Manheim Steamroller.
I was a little bummed that I hadn't seen one of my BMs lately. I heard from her this morning and it turns out that her work shcedule has been crazy and changing a lot over the past few weeks. She's an OR nurse so I can completely see how that many changes can take a lot our of her even more than just being in the operating room for 12 hours a day. We're getting together tonight so she can show me some pictures of a wedding she was in on New Year's Eve. I'm so glad that she's back!
With all this going well, it reminded me that I should call another one of my BMs. She's a photographer and came up a while back to do some engagement photos for us. We'd like to use them with our save the dates and probably some other printed items. She and I keep missing chances for her to get the photos to me. We'll have to get better at that!
Proper Motivation
Originally Posted Jan. 24, 2008
Let me start by saying that I love our dog. He's got the sweetest face, and he gets so excited to see us when we come home. He's half beagle and half English bulldog, wit the beagle head on the bulldog shoulders.
We picked up from the Humane Society in July, and he really is a big part of our little family already. Both our sets of parents like him too which helps a lot- my dad even got him a birthday present. Because of where we got him and how much he means to us, we're doing a donation to the Humane Society in place of traditional favors.
Plus, he's already helping me achieve two of my big personal goals for the wedding- but not exactly as I had intended. Here's how:
First- I want to lose some weight. No one's shocked. I'm actually looking to lose somewhere around 20-25 lbs. Since I have until October I think that's realistic. That's also the amount I should lose to be in a healthy weight-range for my height, so there are multiple reasons why this will be good. The FI and I have joined a gym and I'm a huge fan of the yoga classes- but I can only go on the weekends. I've got minimal time during the week, and by the time I get home I'm tired and excited to be at home. Here's where the pup comes in. His name is Loki- after the Norse god of mischief and chaos- and it fits. He's a furry ball of energy and just wants to play. The problem was that he had just as much energy at 11pm as he did at 11am. So he and I have started going for a walk every morning. We run a little, but it's mostly a walk. This does two nice things- I get at least this workout every day and he gets worn out by about 8:30pm.
Second- I want contacts before the wedding. I've always had glasses, but started wearing them all the time about a year ago. I've been saying since that time that I was going to get contacts, and still haven't. Well, yesterday the pup ate my glasses. He didn't physically ingest anything, but he mangled them well beyond repair. So this weekend I'll be heading to the eye-doctor and getting a replacement set of frames and some contacts. Apparently all I needed was a gentle nudge. Helpful little devil.
Let me start by saying that I love our dog. He's got the sweetest face, and he gets so excited to see us when we come home. He's half beagle and half English bulldog, wit the beagle head on the bulldog shoulders.
We picked up from the Humane Society in July, and he really is a big part of our little family already. Both our sets of parents like him too which helps a lot- my dad even got him a birthday present. Because of where we got him and how much he means to us, we're doing a donation to the Humane Society in place of traditional favors.
Plus, he's already helping me achieve two of my big personal goals for the wedding- but not exactly as I had intended. Here's how:
First- I want to lose some weight. No one's shocked. I'm actually looking to lose somewhere around 20-25 lbs. Since I have until October I think that's realistic. That's also the amount I should lose to be in a healthy weight-range for my height, so there are multiple reasons why this will be good. The FI and I have joined a gym and I'm a huge fan of the yoga classes- but I can only go on the weekends. I've got minimal time during the week, and by the time I get home I'm tired and excited to be at home. Here's where the pup comes in. His name is Loki- after the Norse god of mischief and chaos- and it fits. He's a furry ball of energy and just wants to play. The problem was that he had just as much energy at 11pm as he did at 11am. So he and I have started going for a walk every morning. We run a little, but it's mostly a walk. This does two nice things- I get at least this workout every day and he gets worn out by about 8:30pm.
Second- I want contacts before the wedding. I've always had glasses, but started wearing them all the time about a year ago. I've been saying since that time that I was going to get contacts, and still haven't. Well, yesterday the pup ate my glasses. He didn't physically ingest anything, but he mangled them well beyond repair. So this weekend I'll be heading to the eye-doctor and getting a replacement set of frames and some contacts. Apparently all I needed was a gentle nudge. Helpful little devil.
Another Weekend with Progress
Originally Posted Jan. 22, 2008
We had a pretty busy weekend, but managed to find some time to make a little progress. In between painting a wall in the apt, and four social engagements we had a meeting with our stationary designer on Saturday. She's awesome!
The biggest problem we were having is that we'd find a style we like, but it wouldn't come in our colors (black, ivory, apple green). So she's going to take the pictures we pulled from magazines and the paper we selected in her office and make some samples for us to review when we meet again on Feb 1.
We took our first ballroom dance class on Friday night. We've got the basics of the basics down for the foxtrot and almost for swing, but we've got some more practice to do between now and our next lesson- also on Feb 1.
I put together the first of our bridal party newsletters to keep everyone in the loop since we've got coast to coast coverage. Seriously: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Texas, California. Our friends are everywhere. It's nutty. Our hope is that this will make it easier for everyone to stay up to speed and it'll be an easy way to keep track of everything.
I'm waiting to hear back from my bridesmaids on the dress picture I sent them. I think it meets everyone's criteria and they'll all like it. I've heard back from one who loves it- so that's a good sign. My MOH will need a short jacket as she'll need to be in a nursing bra and those don't really go well with spaghetti straps, but her mom's a seamstress and will do a lovely job, so that's not a problem. Her mom offered to make wraps/jackets for the other girls if they want as well. We'll see what everyone else thinks.
We had a pretty busy weekend, but managed to find some time to make a little progress. In between painting a wall in the apt, and four social engagements we had a meeting with our stationary designer on Saturday. She's awesome!
The biggest problem we were having is that we'd find a style we like, but it wouldn't come in our colors (black, ivory, apple green). So she's going to take the pictures we pulled from magazines and the paper we selected in her office and make some samples for us to review when we meet again on Feb 1.
We took our first ballroom dance class on Friday night. We've got the basics of the basics down for the foxtrot and almost for swing, but we've got some more practice to do between now and our next lesson- also on Feb 1.
I put together the first of our bridal party newsletters to keep everyone in the loop since we've got coast to coast coverage. Seriously: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Texas, California. Our friends are everywhere. It's nutty. Our hope is that this will make it easier for everyone to stay up to speed and it'll be an easy way to keep track of everything.
I'm waiting to hear back from my bridesmaids on the dress picture I sent them. I think it meets everyone's criteria and they'll all like it. I've heard back from one who loves it- so that's a good sign. My MOH will need a short jacket as she'll need to be in a nursing bra and those don't really go well with spaghetti straps, but her mom's a seamstress and will do a lovely job, so that's not a problem. Her mom offered to make wraps/jackets for the other girls if they want as well. We'll see what everyone else thinks.
First Blog Post About Our Wedding
Originally Posted on Jan. 18, 2008
I'm still pretty new to this whole thing, but I like the idea of having a place to vent some frustrations, and I'm sure everyone around me will appreciate hearing about something other than the wedding. I've decided for that reason not to make the blog public to our friends and families.
We've been engaged since Sept 28, 2007- which was our two year anniversary. Totally romantic and everything I could have hoped for. We were out at dinner and his plan was to go for a walk around the circle (we live in Indy) and propose there in the middle of downtown. He was nervous and excited and was sure that I knew about it- which I totally didn't- so he proposed in the middle of the restaurant. We got some applause and a lot of "aawwww" noises from the rest of the people out that night. Absolutely amazing.
We've been making pretty good progress since then- getting the really big things done before the holidays. By the time we relaxed and enjoyed Christmas we had our date set, the church booked, and the reception venue set. The bridal party has all been asked and agreed- which is fantastic. We've got our color scheme set as well- black, ivory, and apple green as an accent color.
Since then, we've booked our florist, I've ordered my dress, and I think I've found the bridesmiads dresses- as long as the girls all like it of course. We're meeting with the invitation designer tomorrow- she'll actually do all of our designing and printing for the invitations/save the dates/programs/place cards/ and anything else we decide we want that will fit into the budget. we'll be sending our save the dates in February.
We may or may not have a photographer- again it dpends on whether he fits into our budget. I hope he does, because he's amazing. He just did a wedding for a friend of mine from high school and they really are some of the best pictures I've seen. He does a more photojournalistic approach which is exactly what Andrew and I want.
It feels great to be getting so much done, but it does make me nervous about what types of snags we're going to hit and when. So far the only trouble spot seems to be my Uncle. I know that sounds odd- but he's been trying to relay all the infomration he has on the wedding to the rest of the family. Sweet that he wants to help, but he's not involved in making the plans! He gets half the story from my dad (his brother) when they talk and then spreads it all around. People are confused and frustrated already- and we've still got nine months before the wedding!
I'm going to have to find a nice way to tell the rest of the family to stop asking him questions and just come to my parents or my cousin who's also a bridesmaid. I've just made a website for us through the knot, so hopefully that will help too.
I'm still pretty new to this whole thing, but I like the idea of having a place to vent some frustrations, and I'm sure everyone around me will appreciate hearing about something other than the wedding. I've decided for that reason not to make the blog public to our friends and families.
We've been engaged since Sept 28, 2007- which was our two year anniversary. Totally romantic and everything I could have hoped for. We were out at dinner and his plan was to go for a walk around the circle (we live in Indy) and propose there in the middle of downtown. He was nervous and excited and was sure that I knew about it- which I totally didn't- so he proposed in the middle of the restaurant. We got some applause and a lot of "aawwww" noises from the rest of the people out that night. Absolutely amazing.
We've been making pretty good progress since then- getting the really big things done before the holidays. By the time we relaxed and enjoyed Christmas we had our date set, the church booked, and the reception venue set. The bridal party has all been asked and agreed- which is fantastic. We've got our color scheme set as well- black, ivory, and apple green as an accent color.
Since then, we've booked our florist, I've ordered my dress, and I think I've found the bridesmiads dresses- as long as the girls all like it of course. We're meeting with the invitation designer tomorrow- she'll actually do all of our designing and printing for the invitations/save the dates/programs/place cards/ and anything else we decide we want that will fit into the budget. we'll be sending our save the dates in February.
We may or may not have a photographer- again it dpends on whether he fits into our budget. I hope he does, because he's amazing. He just did a wedding for a friend of mine from high school and they really are some of the best pictures I've seen. He does a more photojournalistic approach which is exactly what Andrew and I want.
It feels great to be getting so much done, but it does make me nervous about what types of snags we're going to hit and when. So far the only trouble spot seems to be my Uncle. I know that sounds odd- but he's been trying to relay all the infomration he has on the wedding to the rest of the family. Sweet that he wants to help, but he's not involved in making the plans! He gets half the story from my dad (his brother) when they talk and then spreads it all around. People are confused and frustrated already- and we've still got nine months before the wedding!
I'm going to have to find a nice way to tell the rest of the family to stop asking him questions and just come to my parents or my cousin who's also a bridesmaid. I've just made a website for us through the knot, so hopefully that will help too.
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