À toi, pour toujours

thankful thursday #14

2010-12-09T07:31:00.000-06:00

The worst class of my life ends tonight. Thank God!

Wow, where have I been

2010-11-05T23:39:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know, I've been MIA too long. I've been studying too much, but I promise to be back for real once I get those three little letters to go behind my name that have been monopolizing all of my time.

Tonight after my mind became almost immune to the torture that is hundreds of multiple choice questions about topics I don't like, I decided to take a break to work on our wedding album. Yes, I'm designing it myself. And, yes, I know that's probably crazy. At the very least, it's the reason we are closing in on the sixth month mark without an album. My goal is to finish by year end, which should be much easier to progress towards after I take my (last!) exam on November 27th.

Along those lines, as I was sifting through our 700+ pictures I thought I'd share one of the (hundreds?) that always make me smile. I am blessed to have the best family I could ever ask for and it was so important to me to carry my grandfathers with me on my wedding day.

Photo by Clary

The real end of studying is in sight! :)

Thankful Thursday #13

2010-09-09T06:37:00.112-05:00

On this Thursday I am especially reminded to be thankful for second chances. While I have probably had many second chances (some I am not even aware of) there are two that I am particularly thankful for today.

Today, I become a graduate student again and this is what has made me thankful for second chances today.

Five years ago, I graduated from high school and started college. However, I was not at the college that was my first choice. I was offered a full scholarship to one of the schools that I had applied to (though, probably my last choice). While I was also accepted to my two other top choice schools, I could not bring myself to shoulder both myself and my parents with $80,000 of unnecessary debt. Thus, I made the decision to attend a school that was not my first choice. In the end, I know that I made the right choice. For many reasons, I know that the school I was at is where I was supposed to be at that time in my life. I had many experiences there and have left with many great friends that are proof of that. Today though, I will become a graduate student again at one of my preferred choices from back then (and my father's graduate alma mater!). I am incredibly thankful today for my second chance to attend one of my top choices from five years ago.

About two years ago, I sadly passed up another opportunity that I really wanted- this time in the career realm. A few days before my senior year of college began, I was offered a co-op at the #1 STL company on my list of job choices. While this was the exact company I wanted to work for, it was a full time co-op that wouldn't exactly work for someone who needed to be a full time student as well. I briefly considered extending my final year into two in order to accommodate the position, but it just wasn't right for me. I was heartbroken when I turned the offer down, including a bawling 30 minute phone call to my father at work. I eventually came to terms with the fact that if that company was where I was supposed to be then God would bring me there at the right time. A little under a year later, I received a second offer. Not only was it at a time where I had about given up on the idea of finding a job in this sad economy, but it was with that #1 company that I had turned down a year before. I have now worked there for a year and I know that it is exactly where I am supposed to be at exactly the right time.

To bring this whole idea full circle, my two second chances are related! It is my 1st second chance (confused yet?) that is enabling my 2nd. While it was financial issues that kept me from attending my new school five years ago, I am now blessed to be employed by a company that highly values continuing education and will be financing my graduate degree! :)

And so today I am thankful for second chances, and second chances that enable more second chances.

Remember, patience is trusting in God's timing.

So sad

2010-07-31T17:58:00.003-05:00

This makes me incredibly sad. We'll miss you Ryan.

Thankful Thursday #12

2010-07-29T09:29:00.000-05:00

I have the best parents ever, enough said.

Photos by Clary

Tuesday Shoesday, part 3

2010-07-27T11:16:00.002-05:00

We worked so hard for this shot that I feel it warrants a post all its own. When I mean hard I'm talking about there being at least five people involved and a very dedicated videographer holding me up to help get it!

Photo by Clary

Random Wedding Photo Monday

2010-07-26T21:11:00.001-05:00

Tonight I made long overdue sisterly bonding plans with the my awesome MOH, so here is a nice picture of her working on her MOH duties. :)

Photo by Clary

Random Wedding Photo Monday

2010-07-12T19:34:00.000-05:00

No pro wedding photo today, actually this one is courtesy of yours truly.

Incompatible schedules have led to me majorly missing my best friend the last few weeks, so that is where my mind is today. Love you Lys!

And yes, of course that is an ice pick in her hand! When your shoe doesn't fit on wedding day, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. I'd have expected nothing less from one of the most supportive people in my life. (What I didn't expect was said ice pick stowing away in her bag and becoming a Michigan resident!)

Thankful Thursday #11

2010-07-08T15:15:00.028-05:00

This Thursday I am thankful for a husband who is just crazy enough to slide down a banister on his wedding day. I guess I should also be thankful that he didn't rip his pants since this was before the ceremony! He did get a nasty bump but I'm pretty sure he'd do it again since someone recently asked him what he learned and his response was "don't hit the thing at the end."

Photo by Clary's husband and second shooter Travis - I believe there was a bit of encouraging Doug to do this involved too :)

For the man who can always make me laugh

"All that I'm after is a life full of laughter
As long as I'm laughin' with you
I'm thinkin' that all that still matters is love ever after
After the life we've been through
'Cause I know there's no life after you"

-Daughtry

Guess who's next?

2010-07-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

Congrats to my sister and MOH K and her new fiancé!

Photo by Clary

Tuesday Shoesday, part 2

2010-07-06T08:48:00.031-05:00

Last week I posted my shoes, and promised that the photos from the boys were better. Now you can be the judge. I think they are awesome. If you remember we were given a bit of trouble about the shoe selection and seeing these made me even more happy we stuck with our decision.

All photos by Clary

And in case you were wondering how this works...

Random Wedding Photo Monday

2010-07-05T05:33:00.001-05:00

I hope you all are enjoying your day off. I, however, am working because quarter close waits for no one.

I think a little train carrying is good for every guy, don't you?

Photo by Clary

Tuesday Shoesday, part 1

2010-06-29T06:18:00.029-05:00

What a perfect way to start wedding recaps- Tuesday Shoesday! We will start with my shoes this week and let the guys' shoes follow next week. I'd be lying if I didn't say that I think the guys shoe shots were much cooler than mine, but you will have to wait until next week to see those! ;)

There are actually considerably more than these four, but I tried to limit myself for those non shoe lovers (if such people exist!)

All photos by Clary

Thankful Thursday #10

2010-06-17T23:03:00.000-05:00

It's been a while. I'm sorry, well no I'm not really. I've been busy being married, catching up at work, writing thank you notes, studying, and taking care of my husband who has a concussion. (Don't worry story about that lovely bit of info coming soon.)

Today I am thankful for an e-mail from the lovely Clary titled "Proof link!" I've pretty much spent the last five hours staring at our gorgeous pictures. Not only am I excited to see our pictures in general, but it was exactly what I needed after a long day and week where I haven't been feeling very well.

What else does this mean? Continuation of my reviews as well as recaps with all our wonderful pictures are very soon to come! :D

There are no words

2010-05-30T22:40:00.000-05:00

Look at that handsome man of mine.

See a few more pictures from some of the best 10 minutes of our day over on Clary's blog. There are no words, just click and you'll understand.

2010-05-28T22:50:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday I got a kiss on the head from Eeyore. Today Doug got a kiss from Minnie, so that makes us even right?

Probably yes unless we consider the kiss I got from Goofy tonight while Doug was at the buffet! :)

Newlyweds

2010-05-26T10:35:00.001-05:00

A nice heart of Mickey confetti on our table. To date we have had 27 cast members says congratulations as well as three random strangers.

Waffles

2010-05-25T10:02:00.000-05:00

What is it that makes a Mickey shaped waffle so much better than a regular one?

Well, it's over.

2010-05-24T10:07:00.001-05:00

We got married!!!!!!!!!!!

Since we are leaving for our honeymoon this morning, I will just leave you with two pictures I borrowed from Facebook as a preview. I'm sure my Aunts P and S won't mind.

That boy of mine sure cleans up nice.

What a gorgeous bridal party. We have both awesome and beautiful friends and family.

Hopefully that's enough for now. You'll get all the details, reviews, and my other random thoughts starting next week. I might, however, post a few random pics from our trip as we go through the week so check back just in case! :)

Thankful Thursday #9

2010-05-20T11:14:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow we rehearse and Saturday we wed! Couldn't be more thankful that we've made it this far and that we get to spend this weekend with so many people we love.

How can this be?

2010-05-18T06:25:00.000-05:00

From The Weather Channel

From Weatherbug

How can they be so different? Those of you who live here in STL probably aren't that surprised. While I know the forecast can change 1000 times between then and now, I am really hoping The Weather Channel people are wrong...

Sometimes I wonder about this boy...

2010-05-17T22:18:00.001-05:00

Doug's response to my sister and bridesmaid A's comment about being tired of the rain and greyhound combo causing her problems:

Sometimes I wonder about him, but you know what? I spent today sick and miserable and going to the doctor's office to try to avoid still being sick when we get married in 5 (!) days. When I read this it didn't physically cure me but the laughter can be good medicine too. So random and probably so inappropriate, but exactly what I needed.

A post to kill two birds

2010-05-15T08:35:00.015-05:00

Happy 24th birthday to the man who I will be able to call my husband one week (!) from today!

We will honor this special day with my mom's favorite from our e-pics. She loves it because that is so much the Doug face. While I've seen it numerous times myself, I'm guessing that's the face he probably also makes behind my back every time I'm saying something he doesn't quite agree with. :)

Photo by Clary

Thankful Thursday #8

2010-05-13T06:59:00.006-05:00

Keeping it short and sweet this week, I am thankful for his plan, his hope, and his grace.

I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Songs, please

2010-05-13T00:19:00.000-05:00

I would love to check our video form off my list. However I am in desperate need of song suggestions for our finished video. Tell me, what perfect wedding video songs am I missing? Please and thank you!

If you're keeping score

2010-05-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

Had wedding dress successfully zipped by only one pair of hands Saturday, Jamie 1 Wedding 0
Got through embossing about a third of the menus and realized there was a typo, Jamie 1 Wedding 1
Archiver's was 10 short of the paper I needed to complete assorted wedding projects, Jamie 1 Wedding 2
Completed table numbers, Jamie 2 Wedding 2
Favor cards done, Jamie 3 Wedding 2
Met with coordinator tonight only to discover the day of schedule I had been waiting on was sent forever ago and I just didn't get it, Jamie 3, Stephanie 0, Wedding 3
Officially input vacation time for our honeymoon into the system at work, Jamie 4 Wedding 3
Vendor proposal way off the mark but we are modifying and moving on, Jamie 4.5 Wedding 3.5
Found out coordinator didn't receive wedding or rehearsal invitations, Jamie 4.5, USPS 0, Wedding 4.5
Coordinator laying the smack down on a difficult vendor, Jamie 5.5 Wedding 4.5

Look out wedding to do list I still have a chance to take you down!

Two weeks

2010-05-08T00:03:00.000-05:00

We will be getting married two weeks from today. My to do list is nowhere near complete. And that's all I have to say about that.

Thankful Thursday #7

2010-05-06T21:56:00.003-05:00

I think I have officially had the longest week ever. Training for your new job while training your replacement is exhausting! Actually it might be better phrased as training your replacement while working the hardest week of the month in your new job after little to no training. Either way you say it, while my bank account thanks my employer for the overtime, I'm physically and mentally drained. If tomorrow wasn't Friday I'm not sure I'd be able to convince myself to get out of bed.

Therefore this Thankful Thursday is inspired both by my stressful week and that which got me through it. I'm going to leave it at a bible verse and a list of things that helped me through this week.

No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (The Message)

Things I'm thankful for this week:
Funfetti cupcakes - give me all the homemade cakes in the world and I'd probably turn them down for this cake from a box
Bomb Pops - brings me back to my childhood and a nice (only 40 calorie) treat when I'm craving something sweet while still trying to stick to my calorie limit
Mail - see my Tuesday post
Bridal Solidarity -Brit's a girl after my own heart
Having a job at all - had a couple friends lose their jobs recently and I'm extremely thankful for mine even if it is difficult right now
Working out - Chalene makes my day better every time
A cuddly kitten
Sisters - both in the traditional sense and my bff in MI who is as good as, and yes I know I used them on my first TT but they've all helped me in some way this week and this is my post so get over it :)
Two (more) pounds lost!
Not having to study - there is no doubt that God knew the right time for me to rotate was during the month break I have from CPA studying, having to come home from working OT and then study would not have been possible

So this week, while I am thankful for the new challenges and learning opportunities that my new job have brought me, I am even more thankful for a God who knows what I need to enable me to get through what he knows I can handle (even when I'm not so sure).

Guestbook and review #3

2010-05-04T23:09:00.002-05:00

Our guest book came in the mail today!

So first I want to say that any package that comes to me and says both "TA-DA!" and "I'm Here" earns major points in my book so kudos to the MyPublisher people. I love getting mail and packages of all kinds and I don't discriminate. However, packages with exciting writing on them may make me even more excited if that was even possible. :)

Cover

and a few pages...

and the back cover

Guests will be able to write anywhere there is blank space and I think it will be much more interesting than the traditional book of lines.

Here's my review of MyPublisher: I am overall pleased with what I got considering what I paid (about $40). I knew going into this that I wasn't getting a professional album for what I was spending. This was completely practical for what we will be using it for. However, if I were going to order again I would change two things. First, I would order a book jacket instead of the photo finish cover. You probably can't tell much from these pictures but the items on the cover are a bit flat in color. Yes it is nice to not have to deal with a book jacket, but I think I would have preferred the glossy book jacket for its appearance. Second, I would not have used the templates that are built into the MyPublisher program. Next time I would probably design my pages in Photoshop and then import them into the software for it to get printed. While I can imagine the software is very nice for those with limited or no knowledge of other programs, I just didn't find it functional for myself and felt quite limited as far as what I could do to make the book look like I wanted it to. There were just not enough layout and font options as well as very limited places you could use them for those that were in the program. I also told the software to make my book spine black and that is not what it did. In summary, did it turn out perfect or exactly how I wanted? No. Is it ok for what we will use it for? Yes.

Oh, Monday...

2010-05-03T23:23:00.000-05:00

Today was one of those days that goes on forever. Just one problem after another and the only thing that was keeping me going was knowing that in just three weeks Doug and I will be here on our first vacation in three years:

Wouldn't it be nice if there were always something like this to help get you through a bad day?

Engagement

2010-05-01T12:17:00.028-05:00

This is how it began in early December of 2007.

And this is how it will end just 3 weeks from today, after nearly 2 and a half years.

With rings,

(This one is from Clary, all others are mine)

and vows, which you will have to wait to read.

Catnap

2010-04-30T12:42:00.000-05:00

Exactly what I would like to be doing on this rainy day...

Thankful Thursday #6

2010-04-29T19:53:00.000-05:00

I wasn't sure what exactly I would write about this Thursday. This is, of course, not because I am out of items to be thankful for, but rather because there are too many! And then as if she knew, sister and MOH K texted me. "Where's thankful Thursday?" she asked. I reminded her that Thursday wasn't over yet and then started thinking about her message. It made me so happy to know that there was someone specifically wondering about where a post was. Therefore, this Thursday I am thankful for my readers. I am so thankful that there are people out there that care about me enough to come here and read my random ramblings. Extra points to those of you who leave me comments! :)

Because I obviously can't link to everyone I love, be assured that if you are reading this you are included in this Thankful Thursday. Just to name a few though, let's go with Alyssa, Jessica, Marlin, Tracey, Mallory, Sarah, Lydia, Angie, Sheri, Jennelle, Liz, Brit, Jenn, Stephanie, Nicole, Maria, Lynsey, Jessica and LauraAnn.

Since I hate posting without a picture, I've decided to break out some oldies (if you could call within the last 5 years old) of some of my favorite readers. Now if I could just succeed in teaching a few more how to comment! (Hint, hint Mom & Dad)

The inspiration for today's post: Sister and MOH K

Sister and Bridesmaid A

Mom & Dad

photo by Seelen Photography

So, K thanks for the reminder and everyone thanks for reading! :)

Happily ever after

2010-04-27T21:28:00.005-05:00

One month from today will be the first full day of our honeymoon! We haven't been on a vacation since 2007 so this is a long overdue trip. I think we are both very excited just to see some state other than IL and MO!

If you are wondering where we are going this item we received in the mail last week might be a nice clue:

For all the haters

2010-04-25T00:46:00.000-05:00

I could go on and on about all my stories of people telling us "you can't do that" for the wedding or "that's a wrong choice." I was even told (to my face) "well, that's stupid!" on more than one occasion! It seems that weddings must be really good at bringing the worst out in some people, or at the very least their unsolicited opinions. I'll spare you all the gory details for now, but let's just say we've dealt with more than our fair share of wedding haters. However, when I saw the picture below in one of Darbi's recent wedding blog posts I knew I had to write about it.

Dear multiple people who told us the guys could wear nothing but dress shoes at the wedding,

You all thought we had just come up with some crazy idea. Even though I insisted it was a wedding trend and that it could look really cool you judged us and looked at us like we were insane. When we bought our guys Vans to wear for our wedding, one of you even went so far as to forbid a guy to wear them because that was just "our dumb idea." It didn't matter that all our guys were overjoyed to not have to wear dress shoes. It didn't matter that we were really excited about the shoes and that we had carefully gone to multiple stores to get the right size for everyone. It's our wedding and we are going to do what we want anyway, but here is proof we aren't crazy. And see how nice they look!

Love, Jamie

Ok, so I've tried really hard not to let the haters get to me, as incredibly hard as that's been. But I just couldn't resist posting this after I saw this gorgeous picture from Darbi's post. Now after that brief pause for a little therapeutic moment, we will be back to regular wedding details tomorrow with a look at our to-do list before our wedding in 27(!) days. :)

Thankful Thursday #5

2010-04-22T17:18:00.000-05:00

This week I am thankful that I can see an (at least temporary) end to my CPA studying! I am taking my next section Saturday at 8 am. Then I will be CPA review free for one glorious month! So that we can keep this a happy thing let's not talk about how my break is only on account of my ever looming and increasing wedding to do list, ok? Thanks.

see more dog and puppy pictures

Thankful Thursday #4

2010-04-15T00:10:00.000-05:00

This week's Thankful Thursday is sort of two parts. I am thankful for both independently but was spurred to write this post based on the combination.

Part 1) I'm thankful that I work in an iPod friendly workplace. First because I love music. My dad is most definitely the reason for this, both for my love of music in general and for my love of such a wide variety of music styles. One of our greatest bonding activities is seeing concerts. We've seen Styx, REO Speedwagon, 38 Special, Journey, Foreigner, Kansas, Brian Culbertson, Michael Buble, Chris Botti, Kenny Chesney, some others I'm probably missing (and some boy bands too since, yes, I was a teenager in the late 90's.) The songs on my iPod probably span all of the music genres because my dad has cultivated within me both an interest in and respect for almost all music styles.

The second reason that I'm thankful for an iPod friendly workplace is because of the escape it has given me during all these wedding related frustrations. It's easy to say that work should be enough of a distraction, but that doesn't work for me. I'm a thinker and those of you who know me IRL know that I will keep thinking forever, especially when it comes to problems. The work and tunes combo, though, has been just the ticket for me to be able to escape the problems for a bit. I get to just sit in my cube and work and listen to some great music and I've found that very relaxing. I'm able to focus on those two things and not on the problem of the day and it is a great feeling. Sometimes I have to resist the urge to do a little singing and dancing in my chair there in my cube, but I think it's worth the risk. :)

Part 2) One of our favorites to see, Edwin McCain, is my part two to this Thankful Thursday. Lately, almost all of the time my iPod is set to my Edwin playlist. It is 100% the best for my distraction/relaxation plan. So not only did he give me the perfect father daughter dance song, but he is apparently very key in my anti-wedding stress plan as well. If you've read my last post about him you won't be surprised and neither am I. I'm not sure I could even begin to explain why his music is so powerful to me but I am so thankful for it, even more now that it has provided me so much relaxation lately. Maybe this can help explain:

From his bio:
“But the highlight of what I do is playing for and connecting with the people that come out to see me live. The fans - and I hate to call them fans - the friends of music that survive the advertising campaign long enough to understand what music is truly about, and have incorporated my music into their lives to the point where it is a part of their memories and emotions - those are the ones I do it all for.... It’s not about chart positions or record sales or anything like that,” insists the man with 11 albums, a wall of platinum and gold albums that have sold in the millions, and reams of Top 10, 20 and 40 hits, “it just has to do with people coming together and sharing a moment, that's it. And that’s all I ever wanted to do. I just love that moment in the small club and bar where every single person in there has a moment where it’s silent and they get it and it’s beautiful, that moment where the music that’s coming off the stage is much more than the players and much more than the audience and something happens and you’re sitting there and your hair stands up. That’s it, man. I love it.”

I think he represents all that is good about music and what it can do for people. We actually just saw him at The Pageant one week ago and that night was exactly what I needed. A relaxing night of good food, great music, and awesome company in my dad. It was a great show as always and we will never miss any show he has in St. Louis. And my offer in my last post about him still stands of course, buy some of his stuff if you haven't heard more than "I'll Be" or "I Could Not Ask For More" and if you don't like it I'll reimburse you. I don't expect to put any money out here because I know you'll love it. Feel free to ask for a recommendation on which album to start with. :)

So this week let's say I'm thankful for my anti-wedding stress plan with two independent but equally important parts. I only see it becoming increasingly more important as we get closer to wedding day. We've been in the double digits for quite a while but now the first number is only a 3 and to say I'm terrified is an understatement!

Invitation Reveal

2010-04-11T21:59:00.000-05:00

Now that the USPS has had time to deliver our invitations to our guests, it is time to reveal them. I think they turned out great and to be honest after all the time and frustration that went into them I welcome positive comments and/or questions only. :)

Of course, no invitation photo shoot would be complete without the mustang in the background.

These are almost completely DIY, only the pocketfolders and monogram were purchased. They were a pain at times but totally worth it. As I've already mentioned I welcome questions and comments but keep any negative thoughts to yourself please. :)

Thankful Thursday #3

2010-04-08T06:03:00.000-05:00

This week I am thankful for big families and good examples.

This picture is from my shower and with the exception of one Grandma represents just one side of my family. In the front row we've got paternal gma and maternal gma. Then we've got sister and MOH K, Aunt K, Aunt P, me, Aunt R, my mom, Aunt F, Aunt S, Aunt C, and another Aunt S. And we are even missing one - Aunt J. Yep, my mom is one of nine and I think that is awesome. Big families rock.

The list of adjectives that can describe these awesome women includes but is not limited to: wise, kind, strong, fun, crafty, sincere, witty, loyal, caring, faithful, protective, understanding, and generous. I am so lucky to have these women in my life and I thank God this Thursday for the great examples he has given me to learn from. Their support has also been invaluable to me during all of this wedding stress.

2nd vendor review: Looks by JLW

2010-04-07T10:25:00.000-05:00

Let me just start by saying I love Jenn of Looks by JLW. Now that we've got that out of the way, I can tell you why. First of all, she put up with me rescheduling my makeup trial about 5 million times and was so nice about it every time. It actually worked out very well because she was available the morning of my shower and it was so nice to not have to worry about my makeup. I also asked her if she could help me with my hair and she happily obliged. Second, I think we could have chatted for hours, she is so personable and sweet. And most importantly, I loved my makeup and hair!

I basically gave her no guidance whatsoever and it was like she read my mind! I have never received more compliments about my hair and makeup in one day and I have to thank Jenn 100% for that.

I obviously already had Jenn booked for both my and my girls' makeup for wedding day but now I am also going to be scheduling my bridal pics around her availability as well. I will certainly be recommending Jenn to other brides! Rating: A+

Tuesday Shoesday Fail, a.k.a. life with cats

2010-04-06T10:51:00.000-05:00

This week I wanted to do a Tuesday Shoesday à la Brit with my wedding shoes. And so I set out to photograph them. Apparently fuschia heels by Chinese Laundry are very interesting to cats.

Photo attempt #1: one cat laying behind the shoes and one cat getting blinded by my camera's flash

Photo attempt #2: Still a cat napping behind them, but somewhat better

Photo attempt #3: Yep, still a cat but check out those 4 inch heels! I know, what was I thinking? Don't worry I ordered an extra pair of the flip flops I bought my girls for myself!

I guess professional pics will have to wait until we are in a cat free zone, so look for those after May 22. I at least get credit for trying right?

Invitations are on their way!

2010-04-05T13:26:00.000-05:00

After several frustrating weekends, our invitations went in the mail this morning! One thing after another seemed to get in our way such as the printer refusing to print the right color, my custom made map looking bad when shrunk to the size it needed to be, and my adhesive choice being a miserable fail. I am so thankful that my mom didn't give up on me and my very specific vision sometime in the last few weeks!

All the details are to come after we give the USPS some time to deliver these to their (hopefully) excited recipients.

Thankful Thursday #2

2010-04-01T21:12:00.005-05:00

Oh my, we can officially say we are getting married NEXT month! That is so exciting while simultaneously being terrifying that I can't even begin to explain it. But that's not what this post is about, it's Thankful Thursday #2!

This Thursday I am thankful for a boy. A boy that can make me laugh in about 3.5 seconds even when I'm really upset. A boy who supports me through everything. A boy who indulges my requests even when he thinks they are silly. A boy who my parents love and who loves my parents. A boy whose spontaneity drives me crazy (but makes me smile at the same time). A boy who will be my husband 50 days from today.

The last few weeks of wedding planning have been increasingly difficult for reasons best left unsaid here, but it has left me all the more thankful for the strong relationship we have that has and will enable us to weather the storms. It is a comfort to know that even through the challenges we have been facing we are still as committed (and excited!) as we have always been about getting married.

Photo by Clary

And to piggyback on my picture here, this is something we will be including in our ceremony that is very special to us. I originally was introduced to the idea by Megan, but have since somewhat crafted my own version from various internet sources.

Blessing of the Hands

Jamie and Doug, as an expression that your hearts are joined together in love will you please face each other and hold hands, so you may feel the gift that you are to one another. These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever. These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other. These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow, and tears of joy. These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children. These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one. These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it. And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours.

Dear Father, bless the hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and devoted to reaching for your perfection. May Jamie and Doug see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter, and guide. We ask this in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you now and forever. Amen.

First Vendor Review: Necklets Jewelry

2010-03-30T13:43:00.000-05:00

So, when I posted about the gifts I bought my girls here, I mentioned a little white box. Now that my girls' necklaces are safely in their hands, I can give my first vendor review!

Christie from Necklets Jewelry is sooooo awesome! I first ordered the below necklace for all three of my girls as well as a necklace for myself that you'll have to wait for our wedding pictures to see. The ordering process was great and delivery was even sooner than she quoted (and with a hand written thank you note which is always a major plus in my book!) My picture below doesn't even do these justice- they are beautiful and just perfect to go with the bridesmaid dresses. Then when I had my first dress fitting my seamstress suggested that I needed a bracelet. Even though Christie didn't already have a bracelet designed to go with my necklace, she was happy to custom design something for me and she did so the same day! It is the perfect blend of the girls' necklace design and mine and I love it as well. I will definitely be recommending her to everyone for her jewelry and she also has some other adorable items she makes. You can see some of her items here in her Etsy store. Definitely check her out! Rating: A+

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-25T10:13:00.002-05:00

I'm borrowing this idea from Blair who I believe borrowed it from Neisha. For now, I'm not sure whether this will be a short lived thing but I've been feeling so very thankful lately that when I saw this on Blair's blog last week I knew I had to join in for at least a bit. I think everyone can use more gratitude in their life,don't you?

From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. - John 1:16 (NIV)

And so, on this first Thursday I am thankful for the three beautiful women who will stand next to me on our wedding day just under 60 days from today.

First, I'm thankful for my sisters Kristi and Audra. We may not always get along but in the end we will always love and support each other.

And then, I'm thankful for my best friend Alyssa. More to come about her soon in another post.

I've got a really long mental list of items I'm thankful for so look for this to continue at least for a few weeks! :)

(And I've currently got at least 6 half written posts waiting to be finished, so look for my first vendor review and other wedding related details soon!)

Gifts for my girls

2010-03-22T23:30:00.001-05:00

Now that these items are safely in the hands of my girls, I can reveal what I got them. Clearly nothing is enough to compensate them for being there to support me on the biggest day of my life so far (or for that matter, for the daily support they provide) but I did my best to give them some cute and useful items.

Yesterday was my shower and at its conclusion there was a pink bag with our monogram as a tag waiting for each of them. They each had already received their wedding shoes from me when they got their dress.

Each bag had within it 4 items and one IOU for a Coach wristlet that will match their dresses perfectly but didn't arrive in time.

First, there was a bag of wedding day essentials: Shout wipe, Kleenex, bobby pins, cotton swabs, blotting papers, deodorant, a pocket mirror, and Burt's Bees lip shimmer.

One bridesmaid got a cd (of the artist whose awesome concert she and I will be seeing) and the other two received iTunes gift cards.

And each girl got a nice little white box whose contents you will have to check back in the next few days to see when I post my first vendor review! :)

Finally, each girl got a pair of flip flops that match their dress! This was one of the most important items to my Maid of Honor and sister Kristi who absolutely hates heels and doesn't ever wear them. Mom has required that she wear the heels for the ceremony but I have a feeling that these will be meeting her feet asap after the ceremony.

I love my girls so much and could never thank them enough for the daily and wedding sanity they bring to my life. They threw me an awesome shower so look for a post about that soon to come!

A little color for this cloudy day

2010-03-15T12:03:00.000-05:00

We had such awesome weather here in St. Louis last week. Unfortunately we haven't been as lucky the last few days. I hate rain, but would rather it rain now than in May of course! ;)

Here's a little gorgeous fall color from our engagement pics to help with this cloudy day.

Photos by Clary

Happy (albeit a bit cloudy) Monday everyone!!! Hopefully this post will help in getting Mr. Sun back out in STL!

Speaking of Invitations...

2010-03-13T13:35:00.051-06:00

While we are speaking of invitations, I got an adorable one in the mail the other day. And it was to my shower!! Sorry I had to add the ugly black boxes to this picture, but my copy of Photoshop was unfortunately on my computer that Doug killed about a month ago.

The text on the top of the mixer reads: "The ingredients for a successful marriage, A whole lot of love, a dash of spice, And lots of answers to 'What's for dinner?'" The invitation came with three equally adorable matching recipe cards and asked guests to bring them to the shower filled with their favorite recipes.

This is so great for me because I could definitely use the recipes. My kitchen répertoire certainly leaves something to be desired. That is unless, of course, you would like to eat the same six dinners each week. :) I am excited to have some new ideas to try. I am even more excited for (and hopeful that I get) many of the family recipes from both my family and Doug's. My stomach is growling just thinking of the possibilities: corn casserole from my Aunt Sharon, hash brown casserole from Doug's mom, my Grandma's mashed potatoes, my Aunt Janet's chocolate chip cookies, my Aunt Karen's fruit dip, and my mom's lasagna and meatloaf (which I already make but call her almost every time since I always write down the recipe and then lose it.) Mmmm.... I'm so hungry now, not good for my need-to-fit-in-a-wedding-dress-soon diet. In case those aren't enough, I may have also put 10 cookbooks on our registry. This is not only a reflection of my lack of skill in the kitchen but also that I am a pawn of The Food Network, as 8 of them are authored by chefs from that channel.

Even more than the recipes, though, I am just excited to see everyone. I am incredibly blessed to have so many great women in my life and I can't wait to spend some time next Sunday with a large group of them!

Invitations: Attempt #1

2010-03-12T21:34:00.001-06:00

Way back a long time ago (my guess is 2008, but I'm not sure) my friend Sarah and I were "working" and she made the first draft of my invitation. While I especially love the part where it says "Please" with two exclamation points, we will be going for a bit more sophisticated look.

So in all seriousness, as of Wednesday afternoon I am now in possession of all necessary invitation products with the exception of response card envelopes. Since 1) I now have almost everything I need (including a new toy that I can't believe I haven't opened and tried yet) and 2) my goal is to send invites out at the end of the month and I need to get started. Operation invitation making domination commences on Sunday! :)

This is what's important.

2010-03-08T22:27:00.000-06:00

This is what's important. In 74 days we will be married. We will have made it through all of this drama that seems to have attached itself to our wedding no matter how hard we have been fighting it. We will have survived. We will meet at a chapel that sits half way between where we each grew up and we will leave it having vowed to be together for the rest of our lives. Doug will be my husband and I will be his wife. For better or for awesome, for I have decided to accept nothing less.

Responsible for the photo that reminds me why we are doing this thing is Clary

First Dance?

2010-03-02T17:18:00.000-06:00

Doug and I have frustratingly been talking for months about what our first dance would be. We came up with nothing each time. We also have some pretty differing tastes in music. We do have "a song" but it isn't really a first dance-y type song so that's out. I kind of gave up on thinking about it and when I least expected it (isn't that how it always works?) I think I found one. A few days ago I was in my car and I put in a Michael Bublé CD because I recently just bought two tickets to see him again when he comes to St. Louis. And there it was, Michael Bublés "Hold On." I think it will work just fine and am happy to have checked another thing off the list, as long as I can get Doug to agree!

Also, if anyone might be looking for two tickets to his show in St. Louis on June 25th, let me know. I might have extra. :)

Getting the boy involved

2010-02-25T23:08:00.000-06:00

I have had a daily ritual of reading countless wedding related blogs for the last 2+ years. I cannot even tell you how many times I have mentioned one thing or another that I saw on said blogs to Doug and asked him whether he could do this project or that project. I never got a "no" and I usually got a "yes" or a "probably." So imagine my surprise when I asked Doug to accompany me on a shopping trip to get the supplies for one of these previously discussed projects and he had zero idea what I was talking about! (To be completely honest, I wasn't really at all surprised and since he re-agreed to help I didn't care.)

And so here is the first of several projects I had planned for my future husband - our DIY card box.

He looks extremely excited that I documented this for the ol' blog, doesn't he?

And so four white frames, a ton of L brackets, a lazy susan, and 8 gorgeous engagement pictures later, we have this. Our cute rotating, card box!

The spinning base has since been painted white, but the card box is being temporarily stored at my parents' house and I didn't get a picture before the transfer.

Lessons Learned:
1) Give specific directions. I actually envisioned the frames going in the opposite direction, but I didn't explain it clearly enough and didn't realize what was happening until it was all put together. I think, though, that this one was a happy accident because I more easily found pictures I liked that were in portrait orientation.
2) Getting him involved is important to me but the important detail to him is that we are getting married, not the random DIY projects I ask about. And that's ok, but I'm still going to keep asking his opinion and help on many things between now and May 22! :)

They're here, they're here!

2010-02-17T23:18:00.000-06:00

I was able to pick my girls' dresses up yesterday - a month ahead of schedule!! And they are exactly what I imagined they would be! Except, I guess one thing. I'm guessing you can tell from this picture that I have no idea how to work the sashes. They are supposed to be tied in a bow on the right side of the front, but clearly I failed. The sashes are seriously like 10 feet long and I just couldn't work them. I'm guessing that not having a real person in the dress didn't help. Officially added to the to do list: figure out the sashes! Also, don't tell Doug but I will be making him put his suit on to see how it looks with the dress and make a decision about ties. :)

There have been lots of other developments on the wedding front lately that I have a mental list to blog about, but for now we will stick with items I have pictures of.

Girls' shoes, check!

Boys' shoes, check!

My first dress fitting, check! Now don't expect a full picture here, but I think a sneak peek might be ok.

If I didn't already know we were getting really close to this wedding (94 days!) I think I could tell by one or a combination of these things:
1) The aforementioned list of checks and appointments
2) The ever growing list of wedding related tasks accumulating on a multitude of post its in my purse, on my work desk, on our coffee table...

3) The no less than half a dozen wedding related e-mails I sent to my mom today in a very stream of consciousness fashion, for real my mom probably thought she was reading some William Faulkner :)

My CPA exam prep blog deprivation period will end Saturday so next week I promise posts on Doug's ring, invitation challenges, my super cute shower invites made by my MOH, the great suit debate, and my first vendor review of the jewelry I purchased for my girls!

Oh my, 100 days!

2010-02-12T22:26:00.000-06:00

We are now under 100 days! The only word I can think of to describe this is terrifying. So many things to do. My first dress fitting is in the morning, our tasting is in two weeks, our first meeting with our pastor should be this month (although I haven't scheduled it yet) and the parts of endless wedding related projects await me finding time for assembly...

This week also began my quest for some serious toning in my arms. I have already been doing Turbo Sculpt about once a week since I succumbed to one of those late night infomercials a couple years ago, but now it's time to really step it up. Therefore in addition to adding a second or third Turbo Sculpt a week I am also trying out this workout specifically for strapless dress toning. I thought typing "strapless dress workout" into Google was a crazy idea, but why should I be surprised- you can find everything through Google! Tonight was a bit of an adventure trying to get my form and coordination right for the various moves in this, but I think it will be good once I get the hang of it.

Now I want to be careful not to sound like that infomercial I saw a few years ago, but definitely check out Chalene Johnson's website! I absolutely love the Turbo workouts that I bought and can only imagine that I will also like her other selections when I find the time and the money to get them. Chalene always talks about finding your soul mate workout as the best way to find yourself wanting to work out. She is totally right and Turbo certainly is one of my soul mate workouts. I just wish it was offered at a club near me so I could try it sometime with people that aren't on the dvd! :)

Anyone out there have good suggestions for getting my arms ready for May 22nd?

If only it were this easy...

2010-02-06T22:32:00.001-06:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Taking the Audit section of the CPA exam two weeks from today. After narrowly missing a passing score last time, I have broken out the big guns this time. It also helps that I now work for an awesome company who will finance these big guns, of course. :)

I went the self study route the first time because there was no way that these ($3,000) big guns were in my budget at that time. Do I feel in anyway more prepared? I'm not sure. I think that anyone who has experienced this CPA exam challenge would agree with me that it's impossible to ever really feel prepared.

I do know three things though.
1) I've already studied a ridiculous amount and am extremely tired of all topics audit but..
2) Starting tomorrow, you will find me studying at least 3 hours of each day between now and the 20th and..
3) I would love to try this osmosis kitten's method of study.

Must take photo

2010-01-27T12:51:00.000-06:00

Yep, pictures with my childhood dog and the first love of my life Rascals are definitely on my list.

see more dog and puppy pictures

Studying fail

2010-01-24T22:59:00.000-06:00

I swear to you this is the only reason I find CPA exam studying so difficult. Well maybe there are a few more reasons, but for sure this one is key to my problem...

Only four months left!

2010-01-22T17:29:00.000-06:00

Boy has it been a long time since I've posted! This is actually my first post of 2010! That's not to say that I haven't tried before now but unfortunately CPA studying has gotten in the way. (lame, I know.)

Since we are getting married exactly four months (!) from today, I thought a wedding planning status update might be appropriate.

Items we should have done already

Settle on a budget - Done, and by my estimation we will be significantly under!
Create a wedding binder - I don't exactly have a binder but I do have a folder as well as a box. (actually by now it is several boxes. :)
Hire wedding planner, if needed - Done, she was one of the first vendors I booked and is mentioned repeatedly in my wedding related posts here.
Decide on a guest list, compile addresses - This did not come without some fighting and frustration, but done.
Secure venues & date - This too was frustrating and not easy but is done.
Select wedding party - Done from the very beginning, I always knew the three awesome girls I would want!
Book ceremony music, DJ or band - I finally just did this yesterday, four months late according to OneWed.
Book photographer - Done, and would have been my first vendor booked if I could have booked her any more than 18 months out!
Book videographer - Done for a long time as well.
Book florist - I'm loving having a florist in my new family to be!
Plan & book honeymoon - When Doug got rehired from the layoff at his job, he wasn't allowed to get his vacation back so the jury is still out on whether we will be going anywhere.
Book caterer - Comes with the reception site and we will be having our tasting in February!
Book officiant or clergy - Done, we specifically chose a ceremony site that would allow the pastor from my home church.
Select invitations & stationery - Many posts to come on my DIY invitations plans.
Mail save-the-date cards - Created, labeled, and mailed.
Find & order "the" dress - Oh the drama on this one. See my collected works.
Develop a fitness plan - Constant task, down 9.5 pounds so far, but what I'm really interested in is toning. Strength training here I come.
Buy shoes, veil & jewelry - Shoes, done and post to come. Jewelry, done and post to come. Jury is still out on the veil question.
Register for gifts - Done, Macy's and Bed Bath and Beyond.
Order tuxes - No tuxes for us, Doug's suit is bought with each groomsman's to follow soon.
Order bridesmaids' dresses - Done, to arrive March 15th. Somehow can't link to the post but it was on 6/16/09.
Order cake - Baker is booked, tasting to come, already know the general design.
Reserve wedding night accommodations - We will probably stay at home?
Secure wedding day transportation - I know what Doug and I will be taking and everyone else is on their own.
Secure rehearsal dinner venue - Done, cute restaurant open just for us a few blocks from the chapel!
Schedule salon & spa appointments - Was done, until my wonderful Maid of Honor and sister Kristi changed her mind about growing out her hair. Will be calling and begging to fit her in my stylist's schedule. :)
Pick a signature wedding scent - No clue.
Purchase rings - I'm not sure if we will be getting me another ring but we need to go look for Doug soon.
Order favors - This will probably be a donation to animal shelter where we got our girl Halo.
Make your "must play" and "do not play" song lists - I know two songs, need to work on this but I'm going to use the just-booked-the-dj-today excuse for now.

Items not "due" yet

Write vows, select readings - Vows, done. Readings to come.
Plan day-of timeline - Bits and pieces done.
Have dress fitting - Have appointment February 13th.
Mail wedding invitations
Send photo wish list to photographer - Clary totally doesn't need this except for our family groups which I hope to keep to a minimum.
Mail rehearsal dinner invitations
Submit newspaper wedding announcement - Sort of not happening since I discovered the paper where Doug and I live charges $100! My hometown newspaper submission (for free!) is in progress.
Test make-up application - Really need to talk to Jenn about this one.
Obtain marriage license, request copies - Got the application info and is on my list for May.
Print programs
Buy wedding party gifts - 25% complete.
Assign seats - Sort of dreading this one unless I pawn most of it off on our parents. My practice attempt was a disaster
Make seating cards, menus

Being a dog Aunt will have to do

2009-12-31T14:42:00.000-06:00

I have talked several times here about how I would like to have a dog, see my collected works for the background story. However, lately I have been thinking that for the time being "borrowing" a dog is a good option. I love coming home to visit my childhood dog (and maybe my parents too) whenever I can. Also, my sister (and MOH) got a beagle puppy a few months ago. Even though he is a crazy little puppy with an extreme amount of enthusiasm for life (aka- running around like a psycho for long amounts of time) I think being his Aunt (favorite!) is great. He makes me laugh hysterically and is a real lover when he's not being insane. On Tuesday my sister and I took a drive to scout out some houses for Doug and I to look at (we're moving!) and we took Copper with us. The whole way home he slept in my lap with his head nestled on my arm, while I was driving of course. :) My heart majorly melted.

Here are some pictures I took of him while working on a Christmas project. Hi, my name is Copper and look what a cutie I am.

I don't really understand why you are trying to make me sit still and nice with this stupid hat on, but since you're my favorite Aunt I will try to go with it.

You can only ask so much though woman, because I would much rather eat this hat than wear it. This is the one that I framed for my sister because I think it is the most representative of the true Copper spirit.

I fully intend to make him my running partner when the weather isn't so yucky and when we have moved (!) closer to my family. And because he is way too cool and important to be left out, here is a nice picture of the first love of my life, Rascals.

2009-12-23T21:54:00.001-06:00

I call this Mr. Ace's "I'm going to kill you in your sleep for ruining my life" look. If a glare could kill, I would definitely be dead as many times as I have seen it.

Merry Christmas from everyone in our house except the aforementioned angry feline!

2009-12-16T23:37:00.001-06:00

see more dog and puppy pictures

This just made me smile after another very long day. It reminds me very much of seeing my niece and nephew, the greyhounds, licking every last drop from the bottom of my sister or brother-in-law's ice cream cup.

A couple wedding developments this week to come this weekend when I actually have time to write!

There once was a girl

2009-12-07T09:24:00.001-06:00

And she met a boy. And the boy was great and they liked each other very much.

But the boy had a cat. And the cat, he didn't much like the girl.And so he tried to hide from his feelings and from the growing affection between the boy and the girl.And he tried to use male bonding to drive the girl out.And he tried to have a heart to heart (or head to head) with the boy about the girl.But the boy's mind could not be changed and so they got engaged and then the next year the girl brought her things to the house of the boy and his cat. And the cat expressed his displeasure.But the girl did not leave. So, the cat laid in her freshly laundered towels.And he again expressed his displeasure. He said, "Why are you here and ruining my life?"But the girl did not leave. And eventually the boy and the girl decided that it was time to once again bring balance to the house. And so, in their most spontaneous and least thought about decision of the year, they adopted a girl kitten.
And she was happy and cuddly and wonderful.And they named her Halo after the boy's favorite video game at the time. And she kept the girl company through long nights of Xbox.And she served as a guard of the girl from the cat, albeit sometimes a sleepy one.And they all lived happily ever after. Except the cat who is suspected to be incapable of happiness. The end.

2009-12-06T22:58:00.006-06:00

A quick trip to Victoria's and now it is just left to deciding between...

matching our wedding colors
or something blue.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2009-11-25T23:59:00.014-06:00

Well, no, I guess it really isn't here in the Midwest, but inside our house it is since we put up the tree on Monday. Yes, I know that today is Thanksgiving and I have a post about what I am thankful for in the works too, don't worry. Just a bit out of order. I love Christmas and I don't care for turkey, so deal with it. :)

Our tree is a hodgepodge of decorations from both before and since we have been together. It's definitely a random assortment of items, but it works. Here are some of my favorites:

This is an ornament with a picture of our first cat and from our first Christmas together. We actually got a kitten in late August, who I thought I had written about but I guess not. So now I need to work on a blog post about her in addition to getting her an ornament for the tree.This is a new ornament for this year and was a gift from my mom. Nothing can put me in the Christmas mood faster than watching the claymation Rudolph. Of course, this can also make me a tad homesick, as it reminds me of the long hours spent watching Christmas movie after Christmas movie with my mom pretty much every December that I can remember.
I couldn't resist purchasing this adorable cow angel ornament that I found at Target when Doug and I stopped by to pick up ornament hangers. I am considering it a tribute to my Aunt Sharon who married a dairy farmer.
Doug made a set of two Ninja Turtles when he was a kid and they have always found a place on our tree as a reminder of how one of the first things we bonded over when we met was our mutual admiration for the Turtles when we were younger. What can I say? - Barbie just didn't interest me. We also bonded over going to and disliking the same orthodontist but that hasn't warranted an ornament.
This ornament was a gift from Doug's mom from the Christmas we got engaged.
This sparkly pear is from the wedding of my sister Audra and brother-in-law Derrick. I'm not actually sure if it is in fact an ornament but I love sparkly things.
I majorly heart snowmen. When we move (hopefully before next Christmas) and have more room I fully intend to have two trees. One will be our hodgepodge tree. The other I hope to decorate in snowmen, silver garland and ribbon, and white lights. These are two of my snowmen from past years...

... and this is a new snowman for this year, also a gift from my mom.
And to top it off, our version of an angel- the angel bear! This is actually a small Boyds bear that was a gift from my mom's good friend forever ago. I have always loved it and when we were putting up the tree together for the first time and I discovered that Doug had no tree topper, I knew just the perfect one!
Anyone else have such a motley crew of ornaments on their tree?

Like having a crystal ball

2009-11-19T23:57:00.002-06:00

I no longer have to wonder all the time what my wedding will look like because today I saw it. Megan Thiele just happened to post a gorgeous wedding today that occurred at the chapel where Doug and I will get married almost exactly six months from today.I had been thinking about something for these doors for a while but now I have an official mental note to figure something out.

Spectacular light.If I were to have a must take photo list, this one with the ridiculous landscaping would top it.If we're making a list add one of these shots with the stairs too please.
And, of course, some on Lebanon's cute main street.
There's a ton more gorgeousness to be found over on Megan's blog so hop over there to enjoy and leave her some love! Oh, and ask her where the reception was because I have a sneaking suspicion it might be the same as our too.

A Good Cry

2009-11-14T22:23:00.004-06:00

It seems to me that lately the only thing that seems to be coming from the dwindling of days between now and wedding day (the official count is 189, by the way) is an increased frequency of wedding related drama and therefore, for me at least, a lot more crying. I can't even remember the last week that went by without me breaking down over something. So far I have chosen not to address these things here for fear of this blog being discovered by those causing the crying. For now I think I will keep it that way but let's just say there is a group of people who seem to find anything and everything we decide for the wedding to be wrong and bad. And they have to tell us. This explanatory/defensive post, for example stemmed from one of our encounters with these people. If you know me in real life, I would imagine that you have already heard one, two, or all of these stories but another one happened today so feel free to ask.

So obviously none of those are good cry's and the topic of this post is actually a good cry from a few weeks ago. I arrived home on a Friday afternoon (not usually a crying event) and had received a package in the mail (also, not a crying event). I opened it to find the bouquet charms I had ordered from Etsy seller DesignsbyTami. And I cried, but this was one really good wedding related cry. I sat there by my front door and cried and just remembered and thanked God for the blessing that both of my grandpas were to me and my families.I initially ordered these to adorn my bouquet, and they will. However, I know these will find a more permanent place in my life post-wedding. I miss and think of my grandpas often and these charms will be such a nice way to carry them with me always, not just on my wedding day.

"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you." Philippians 1:3

I have a problem

2009-11-12T10:12:00.004-06:00

Well, I have several actually, but most I don't think I can safely post about here and/or I can do nothing about. I may very well throw caution to the wind sometime this weekend, out of sheer exasperation with my drama filled life, so check back for a more interesting post soon.

So anyway...

I've been finding myself checking my e-mail as well as a certain blog or two several times an hour. I'm waiting (somewhat) patiently for several important e-mails and an even more anticipated blog post of our engagement pictures. This would probably be extremely detracting from my getting work done if I actually had enough work to fill my time. Unfortunately though I don't have enough to do and this is probably only adding to my problem!

Suggestions, please, because this girl is going crazy.

This has got to be a first

2009-10-27T22:42:00.003-05:00

I have a wedding venue that not only won't respond to numerous phone messages, but also has ignored a tweet from my fab planner! Now, I'm just not sure this is something I can support.

In other news, I need some feedback here. If our ceremony site's rules state : "The following activities are not allowed on University property: ..... 3. Posting of signs on trees, lampposts, fences, buildings, street signs, etc." That still means I can get Doug to make us a cute sign like this and be perfectly legal, right?Source

In other, other news, my sister and I had a nice chat tonight about possibilities for my bridal shower and I am really excited! We don't always get along, as with most siblings I think, but I am so happy that she agreed to be my maid of honor. Love you K!

Words of wisdom

2009-10-20T07:49:00.003-05:00

Wedding guest list advice straight from the awesome Clary: Don't invite anyone who you wouldn't have over to your house for dinner, because that's what a wedding is, really, just a big dinner party.

A girl after my own heart, for sure. :)

So what else does this mean? Engagement pictures can be checked off of our list! And the weather was gorgeous, and we had a great time, and Doug really likes Clary (extra yay!), and my feelings that I booked the perfect photographer are only reaffirmed/strengthened! All in all, a good night, wouldn't you say?

Priorities

2009-10-05T21:42:00.008-05:00

I spent today home sick and pinned to our couch by two cats who with a human present to nap on could find no piece of furniture suitable to them. Therefore, while I should have used this extra time to study for my upcoming cpa exam or graduate class, I was hardly in a physical (by both definitions) position to do so. Instead I spent the day cuddling with my kitties and having a bit of a long overdue conversation with myself.

Lately I have been in a very "Hey world, I see you passing me by, but there's nothing I can do about it because I'm too busy" kind of mood. My daily routine begins with getting up for work after not getting enough sleep, working, and then coming home and either studying or falling asleep on the couch because I'm too tired to do the studying I need to be doing. I feel like I am never catching up on things that need to be done. I feel guilty when I fall asleep and should be studying or when I choose not to study and instead do something I want to do. And I'm tired of it. I've decided that I need to prioritize and simplify.

While it's still a work in progress, I think these are what I've decided to focus on:
1) Work - pretty obvious
2) The remainder of my CPA exam sections - Credit for my first passed one will only last so long, but I'm not going to rush myself either
3) Wedding planning - our countdown stands at 229 days and there are so many things left to take care of
4) Getting healthy - I haven't worked out in at least a month and let me tell you it does not feel good. My eating habits are in a similar state of disarray. I'm not necessarily concerned with losing weight but definitely getting toned and just overly more healthy.
5) And certainly not last, Doug, family and friends - I'm sick of not having enough time for them and/or feeling guilty for spending time with them instead of other commitments. There are also some people who I haven't been making time for at all and that's going to change.

And what's going to go:
1) My master's degree - The class I am currently in ends the end of this month. I will definitely be taking time off until the middle of February and am considering waiting until May or later to begin another class. I just don't feel that I need to immediately get this degree. It certainly isn't immediately necessary in my current position and it will be a while before it will be needed for me to move up. I definitely want to pursue it and I don't want to wait forever to do so, but I think a break is justified. So it's going for now.
2) The lack of a positive schedule - My current routine sucks. I want to wake up well rested. Go to work. Come home, work out and eat dinner. Followed by an hour or two of studying comprised of a specific study plan. Not studying all night and not studying whatever I can tolerate that night. Then I want to do stuff I want to do- recreational reading, tv, time with friends and family, blogging!, and working on wedding stuff. And I don't want to study and catch up on household chores all weekend either.
3) Dealing with other people's random drama that seems to be forcing itself into my life and wasting precious time that could be devoted to other things

So, what do we think? Anyone have to do something similar to get their life back under control? Anyone see something I'm missing or not thinking properly about? Thoughts, please!

A nice reminder

2009-10-04T23:17:00.008-05:00

While shopping with my wonderful mom (who now reads my blog- Hi Mom!) yesterday, we of course talked about Doug a lot. But, kind of out of the blue she said, "You know Jamie, you really got a good one." While I obviously know this and thank God every day for the great gift he has given me, it is always nice to get a little reminder/confirmation.

I am also so thankful that my parents love Doug. I think this line from the Edwin McCain song my dad and I will dance to illustrates how they feel: "And I can't help thinking that I'm the lucky one, You're still my baby daughter and now I've gained a son." Coming from a few past relationships where my parents were, let's say, less than thrilled with my choices this is completely refreshing. It's so nice to be able to spend time with both Doug and my parents at the same time and to really enjoy each others' company. Most weeks this is comprised of at least one weekly dinner and sometimes more and I love it.

I have a couple of other posts swirling around in this head of mine but for now they must wait as I fight with my camera to get decent pictures of some of the recently developed "small" wedding details.

Ain't that the truth

2009-10-03T23:16:00.004-05:00

While listening to Pandora just now I heard an ad that went something like : "Marriage: It is the only family member you get to choose and it gives you a second sane person at the dinner table."

Given our recent experiences with a couple family members, I would have to say this is a fairly accurate statement.

Anyone have any terrible inlaw related stories to share, because they would sure make me feel better.

Progress and Anti-progress

2009-10-02T12:07:00.004-05:00

One lunch break trip to the Post Office and our save the dates are officially in the mail! The USPS lady did not seem to appreciate my request for stamps that were not ugly forever stamps and I was not entirely thrilled with any of the other options, but they are in the mail either way. So now, as if the approx. $4,000 dollars in deposits and other related expenses we have already put out weren't enough, we are definitely committed to do this wedding thing!

Unfortunately, due to a counting error on my part, my parents and my maid of honor as well as a couple other random people won't be getting theirs in this round. Enough labels and envelopes but not enough actual save the dates printed = mini save the date disaster for this girl. When you consider the fact that I'm accountant this becomes especially comical, at least I think so. :)

I will post more detailed pictures of the official finished products once I give the ol' postman a few days to get them delivered to our guests. In the meantime, let's talk about the attire of someone who I followed back into the building after my successful USPS adventure. When did a 2004 Cardinals World Series t-shirt become appropriate to wear to work? I am all about supporting the boys (as you have seen here and here) but isn't this taking the idea of casual Friday a bit far?

Cubs Suck

2009-09-28T21:05:00.002-05:00

I don't think kneeling is part of the United Methodist wedding tradition. However, if it was we would so be copying this gesture made by one of Seelen Photography's grooms.

A nice contrast

2009-09-28T21:00:00.003-05:00

What I should have been working on tonight & what I actually did.

Save the dates ready to mail! More details on this fab paper product I've worked so hard on to come. Not promising when though because I am finding it very hard to let my beautiful babies go!

Why we want a small wedding

2009-09-23T19:25:00.002-05:00

Now I know small is a relative thing, but I consider our hope for the guest list to be as little over 115 as possible to be small. Especially considering we have 75+ in family between the two of us.

And yes, it's partially a budget thing but for the most part it's not because there are so many other good reasons!

1. We want to spend this incredibly important day with those that are most important to us. Our families and close friends are both incredibly important to us and we want to share our wedding with those we love and who love us. Random people that aren't actively in our lives could only detract from that experience.

2. Less random extra people = less anxiety. Both in the planning and execution stages as well as the actual events. Being immersed in a day spent celebrating with good friends and family, where everyone (and us especially) is completely comfortable. We want our day to be a joyful celebration of our marriage, not some sort of big show or spectator event. A small group promotes a closeness where emotions can flow naturally and comfortably.

3. We want to be able to spend time with our guests! The smaller the group, the more time per guest. We don't want one of those weddings where the bride and groom can't even remember who they saw or talked to. I want our guest book to remind me of the good time we had with each individual, not whether they were there or not! Also, we want to spend time with people who we are actually interested in spending time with. No use wasting precious time making conversation with people out of some forced obligation when we could be enjoying the most important day of our life so far with those most important to us.

2009-09-22T17:21:00.003-05:00

I just picked up the fabric swatch I ordered for the bridesmaid dresses and the color is exactly what I imagined! :)

While this pales in comparison to the major wedding related drama occurring right now, it's a little thing that made my day a bit better. Maybe it only went from terrible to bad, but I'll take it.

Wanted:

2009-09-20T16:40:00.003-05:00

suggestions for perfect fall-ish (maybe?) outfits for one guy and one girl to wear during their engagement pictures with the fab Clary which are occurring in 2 1/2 weeks.

I literally have no inspiration and too many other things going on to figure this out.

There is $20 in gift cards to here in it for whoever makes the suggestion we decide to use. Or another place of your choice, which I can only imagine would be if you don't live in the STL.

And yes, my favorite wedding planner and photographer (i.e. those who introduced me to this amazing place) are certainly eligible.

Save the date hesitation

2009-09-17T22:14:00.003-05:00

So? What do we think? Worthy of being the official save the date? Anything to change? Remember my inspiration. I can't figure out what, but something is keeping me from making an official commitment to it.

Also, if we do go with it, does anyone think that some may view it as Doug being somewhat slighted by being upside down? For some reason I am wondering that may be the reaction of some.

"Oh, you got to learn to roll with the changes"

2009-09-09T22:35:00.003-05:00

While I heart REO Speedwagon and their many songs, change I do not heart. I could regale you with stories about my adverse reactions to all the various changes that have previously occurred in my life. However, I think I can summarize my feelings quite nicely. I just did a mental happy dance when I confirmed that all of my current doctors are covered by the insurance I will have with my new job! How sad is that?

Wraparound Labels? Yeah, we've got them. :)

2009-09-06T01:56:00.004-05:00

Thanks to a combo of lack of sleep and my fabulous design talents, I just whipped up this baby a few minutes ago. Good timing too, as we hope to send out save the dates this week. More on that to come.

My boy is so handy

2009-08-22T10:48:00.002-05:00

I big puffy heart having a fiance who is wickedly mechanically inclined. I never have to worry about car maintenance or house maintenance. He has now single-handedly saved my various family members from spending many many dollars to fix things that need not cost so much to fix if he does it himself. Just yesterday my car got new rotors and a few weeks ago he saved my dad from spending the money both to tow a car and fix it.

While in many aspects the fact that Doug got laid off in April has been an inconvenience, there is one area it hasn't: finishing all of the random house projects we had talked about. Since he has been off we have gotten: a new back porch (and soon to be front too), new steel entry doors, "revised" landscaping, new siding, a redone bathroom, and a redone dining room.

So, speaking of that dining room. It used to be purple. I kid you not, it was a lavender-faux finished delight that could only come from the previous owners using it as a little girl's bedroom and not a dining room. I am so sorry to say that the before pictures looked gray when uploaded to blogger, for I know you all would revel in getting to see the lavender amazing-ness. We (sort of) use it as an office, so we decided to paint it gray.And then one night we were talking about how we needed more storage and the next day I came home from work to this masterpiece:Seriously, how lucky am I? Doug's handiness and work ethic are only two of the many reasons that I love him as much as I do. I am actually a little sad that I will have to leave it when Doug gets another job and we are able to move.

Wall hanging and diploma fail.

2009-08-21T16:39:00.001-05:00

According to the level, the picture hangers on this wall are in a completely straight line.Crooked early 1900's wall fail.

Oh, and those two frames on the bottom you ask? Yep those are the inserts that came in the frame. They will eventually hold my two diplomas. But you graduated in May, right? Yes, I did, but I still do not have my diplomas! Talk about efficiency.

2009-08-21T13:32:00.005-05:00

Gorgeous glass vases hand blown in Poland for more than 60% off?Yes, dear Target, I think I will.We can use these on wedding day, right Stephanie? Either way $200+ in glass for less than $60!

Jamie's Great Day Part 3: An awesome concert and an unexpected random wedding check

2009-08-15T20:06:00.005-05:00

First off, if you don't currently listen to Edwin McCain go buy some of his music right now. And not just "I'll Be" or "I Could Not Ask For More"- there is way more to this great artist than those two songs. If you don't like it, I will pay you back, but I seriously don't expect that to happen. My wonderful Friday ended at The Pageant with my dad for an Edwin McCain concert. Once again, Edwin did not disappoint. The money we spend to see him every year is always by far some of the best money we spend all year. He is a great entertainer with great songs and a great band and he puts on an awesome show every time.

So about that unexpected wedding check. I had always thought that my dad and I would be dancing to a song by either Styx or REO Speedwagon because we have seen them every summer for 9 years. They are some of our favorite concerts to see, and let me tell you we have seen a lot. One of my dad's college bands even opened for REO in Champaign, IL when REO was a $150/night band! So there I am thinking I have that planned already and then Edwin comes on stage and sings a new song he has coming out this fall. And by the end I am all teary eyed and know that Edwin has changed what I thought was my plan. This video is only an excerpt of the song when Edwin was on the Bob and Tom show, but I know you will understand why when you listen to him sing it.

And so, dear Edwin, you have changed my plan as only you could. Thanks for the great song to dance to with my daddy on my wedding day (and the accompanying tears) and thanks for coming to St. Louis and helping end my perfect Friday. Please come back soon. Oh, and please go to KC as my lovely older sister would love to see you too! Thanks and all my love, Jamie

Jamie's Great Day Part 2: A life lesson and what the e-mail should have said

2009-08-15T18:14:00.004-05:00

So, in the middle of July I mentioned in this post and this post that I was interviewing for a position I really wanted to get. It met all of the qualities I considered for my ideal position. It was with a major St. Louis manufacturer. It was a rotational development program where I would get to learn about several accounting areas during my first few years. And I could ultimately end up in cost accounting (where my greatest accounting interests are) relatively easily. My interview went great and I thought I had made a great connection in my conversation with the guy in charge of the department I was interviewing with. As with other jobs I had interviewed for that I wanted, I began praying that it was not only my opinion, but God's will that I get this position. This time, though, I probably prayed more than I ever had.

Well at the end of July I got the dreaded "we've gone with someone else" e-mail. One sentence that crushed me then and had crushed me several times before. But this time was a bit different. Instead of my usual mopey response, I accepted it and moved on. I told God that I understood the position wasn't where I was supposed to be and even began pursuing another position that, while sufficient, wasn't where my heart was. And I'm guessing that new response to an unanswered prayer made all the difference.

Friday afternoon I got an e-mail and a voice mail from the department head that I had had the great connection with. Was I still interested in the position? Apparently, my one-sentence rejection e-mail should have told me that I was one of the top candidates they interviewed. They had been instructed to try to hire from within first and they would still like to hire me if they got a chance in the near future. Not exactly the message I got from the first e-mail, but as I told the department head, I certainly was happy to get it now!

And what have I gained from this experience? Sure, I was told to expect a job offer on Monday and that's freaking spectacular. But more importantly I've also gotten a nice reminder from God that when I put my trust in him, he will provide me with exactly what I need, whether it's what I think I need or not.

Up next, part 3 of my great day!

Jamie's Great Day Part 1: How it Started

2009-08-15T13:14:00.005-05:00

I passed my first CPA exam part! One down, and three more to go!

This was only the beginning of the best day I have had in a long time and thus at least two more posts are to come.

Registry Stalking Intervention

2009-08-09T22:30:00.003-05:00

While responding earlier this evening to a message from my MOH about my bridal shower, I went and checked to see if Doug and I had registered for enough items that would fit a particular "theme" (term used loosely) being considered.

And so I was innocently counting these items when I stumbled upon that dangerous little phrase "Still need: zero" and I about fell out of my chair. Doug and I had registered for two items that we honestly didn't expect to get. To not jinx us, I will just hint that they are 1) a cleaning appliance and 2) a baking tool coveted by almost all the fab brides on the wedding board I frequent.

I can see how this registry checking thing is going to get me into trouble. First, very few people, to my knowledge, know where we are registered. After all, our wedding is still not for another 250+ days. We have not even sent save-the-dates (post about that to come soon) yet and as I mentioned earlier in this post, a shower is just in the most beginning of thought processes! Second, we didn't even entertain the idea of actually receiving either of these items! So, armed with all of this knowledge my mind is too busy wondering about this mystery item and its possible purchasers to study the module on Audit and Attestation Evidence that needs to get in my brain as I prepare for CPA section 2 on August 29th.

I need a registry stalking intervention! Past brides, those currently dealing with this issue, and anyone else with thoughts, please help!

To puppeh or not to puppeh?

2009-07-27T22:36:00.003-05:00

see more dog and puppy pictures

I have mentioned at least once here how much I want to have a dog. While there were a few years of my life that there wasn't a dog in my house growing up, they are too far back for me to remember. Over the last few weeks, many people in my life have been getting themselves adorable puppehs (or in the case of Stephanie, an adorable and extremely comical rescue) and it has reignited my pining for one of my own. The weekly-ish visits with my "parents" dog just aren't cutting it anymore.

So, Doug and I have been discussing it and have come to the decision that it might be a good time to get a dog. I currently have my eye on both a cute beagle mix puppeh or a 3 year old Westie (the breed I grew up with) girl that is being retired from breeding. However, I can't seem to commit to this decision.

What is holding me back you ask? I have no idea but one minute I am gung ho and excited about getting a dog and the next I'm worried about the cat's reaction and how it will change our routine. My good friend Sarah told me that it is as simple as one question: "Will this puppeh enhance your quality of life?" But is it that simple? And so, dear internets, I ask you to please give me both your pros and cons on this issue so I can add to my confusion. :)

One exam down and 300 days to go

2009-07-25T23:11:00.011-05:00

In non-wedding news, I am one less exam away from my CPA certificate, provided I passed the section I took this afternoon. No rest for the weary though, my corporate tax class final is Wednesday and then one month from now is my second CPA section.

In wedding related news, we are officially 300 days out from getting married! Considering the fact that our engagement will be close to 2.5 years long, this is exciting! In honor of this, here are some pictures of us by Seelen Photography. The purpose of this shoot was to get the perfect picture to solve my Save the Date problem I discussed a while ago, so look for a post soliciting more opinions on that topic after I get all the pictures. Since I will be entrenched in the aforementioned CPA studying until November, I wanted to get them out during September because it is the only month I am only studying and not testing.

Random bits of advice I could use right now

2009-07-22T19:16:00.003-05:00

Wedding related

1)What is the best way for one to get a hard to reach chaplain at a private university to return one's call in a timely manner? This dude must have a ridiculously leisurely job because every time Stephanie calls he is "on vacation." Seriously, the guy has been on vacation for like three months and it is driving both Stephanie and I crazy. One time that she did get through to him, he said "I guess you two are anxious about this?" she said yes and apparently that has not changed his behavior.

Not wedding related

2)Is last minute pre-exam cramming of information ever effective? I am taking my first CPA exam on Saturday and I honestly feel as if any studying between now and then wont help me. I've been studying for a month, isn't that enough? Any CPA exam tips are welcome too, as I know a large portion of my audience is in the accounting field. :)

3)What are the best ways to keep your mind off of the fact that you are waiting to hear back from your dream employer about an interview you had for your dream position? You would think this whole CPA studying thing would be enough to do it, but it's not. I would so trade a failure of my CPA exam section as well as give up on the chapel in order to get this job.

I will be back to posts about the wedding after July 29 (summer class final exam), I promise.

Help, please!

2009-07-13T17:52:00.003-05:00

In honor of my two different interviews this week, what's the toughest question you have been asked?

P.S. Any other interview advice is welcome.

P.S.S. Any good thoughts thrown my way would be appreciated too! :)

Doug loves cake...

2009-07-09T15:22:00.004-05:00

but I could care less. I mean, I love to look at them and definitely will enjoy having a pretty one at our wedding. I love to watch them being made and could probably watch a combo of Ace of Cakes, Food Network Cake Challenges, and Cake Boss for an entire day. However, I may not have more than the "ceremonial" bite on our day. What can I say? I hate buttercream icing and have barely any more interest in the cake part. Doug and my's typical routine at any cake having functions is for me to eat as much of the cake without eating icing and then he finishes it or I skip the cake altogether. Weird, I know. Therefore, the cake flavors will be one decision that I will probably have little input on. Doug, on the other hand, can't wait for our cake tasting.

I do, though, know what it will look like. For this one, my inspiration comes from Lauren and Mike's gorgeous cake (photo by the Browers.) This cake is so pretty that it almost makes me think that I would actually like to eat some of it. I'm guessing this one feeds quite a few more than we will need to feed, so it will be a scaled down version of this one with pink ribbon instead of green. I bought the perfect pink ribbon a few weeks ago and am at least very excited that we will have a beautiful cake even if I don't eat much of it.

Montréal anyone?

2009-07-03T15:55:00.003-05:00

In case you haven't noticed, my blog title is not in English. "À toi, pour toujours" is French for "Yours forever." I spent almost four years in school (a high school and college combo) studying French and I love to read about French culture.

Unfortunately, a European honeymoon is not in the budget. My dream of walking the streets of Paris and seeing real life versions of the pictures in my French books is on hold. And I'm ok with that, but then where to go?

The other day I was reading an issue of Modern Bride and it made suggestions for destinations that are similar to popular-but-more-pricey locations such as my Paris dream. And that is where Montréal comes in. I'll be the first to admit that Canada isn't exactly in the forefront of most couples' honeymoon discussions, but it just might be the answer.

French-speaking? Yes.

Historical? Yes.

Less expensive? You bet.

And it is closer too, meaning no suffering through an 8 hour flight. (I'm not an air travel fan, to say the least.)

So, anyone been? I've never been to any part of Canada. Would love to hear your thoughts on this alternative and especially any Canada experiences-good or bad!

2009-06-30T18:00:00.003-05:00

Dearest Jell-o Fat Free Pudding Snack,

Please start tasting like ice cream. Seriously, I am only eating you because I don't want to counteract the ridiculous amount of effort put forth on my first day of the 30 day shred.

Since I am trying to get toned in order to look fabulous in my wedding dress, I think we will be seeing a lot of each other over the next 10ish months. The sooner you start tasting like this, this, or this, the better for the both of us, ok?

Love, Jamie

BM dress 2.0

2009-06-28T15:29:00.003-05:00

has officially been approved by all three girls!

Now, let's talk about how the dress company thinks it is fair to charge me $15.00 for two 6"x6" swatches of fabric and then charge me $8.00 to ship them!

The charge for the fabric I can understand, but I honestly can't understand how it costs them anywhere near $8.00 to send them to me. I know the USPS has been increasing their rates, but surely not so much as to that amount!

Can anyone explain this to me?

I would have written tonight off as horrible...

2009-06-17T23:17:00.004-05:00

I got attacked by a door and am now sporting a ridiculous bruise on my upper left arm,

I spent four and a half hours in a boring corporate taxation class,

and when I was finally able to leave said boring class I discovered that one of the straps on my adorable (and expensive) laptop bag is broken.

However, I came home to the sweetest card from Doug's uncle congratulating me on my graduation and new job! His uncle is one of the most caring people I have ever met. He is always the first person at gatherings to ask me how I am and what is happening in my life. However, he isn't the only one. Doug has (with maybe one exception) really nice and incredibly caring families on both sides. I have always felt completely welcomed by them and am excited to become part of both families. Bonus points for the fact that they are both large families. (Those of you who come from small families probably won't understand this, but big families rock.)

I already have a very large and wonderful family who I love so much, but in less than a year I will be gaining some wonderful new family members and that makes me really happy. Yay for mood changing cards from new uncles and yay for new family being a part of this whole getting married thing!

2009-06-16T13:19:00.003-05:00

In my quest to locate a bridal shop that has a dress in the actual color we are ordering, I have become unsure of our choice. Our original bridesmaid dress pick is this:

Source

However, I finally found a bridal shop near me that has a dress in the Cherry color (and don't mind me coming to look) and they have a sample of this dress:Source

So, they are kind of different and kind of identical? I think I might be leaning towards the second one, but I can't for the life of me tell you why. Could it be fate that I was meant to meet this dress when searching for our color? Thoughts, please!

P.S. I know I have at least one bridal party reader, and the people who have to wear this dress are especially encouraged to comment! :)

Bye Bye Jasmine

2009-06-12T10:52:00.003-05:00

Yep, that's right, my bridal shop no longer carries the Jasmine line. Why you ask? Because of my dress! Apparently it is due to the amount of effort (i.e. complaining, arguing, insisting that the original dress was not right, I imagine expletives were employed) that the owner of the bridal shop I ordered my dress from had to put forth in order to get me a replacement that was actually constructed properly. This isn't the first time they have had huge problems (requiring yelling at the owner) with them, so they decided it wasn't worth the difficulty. I have a vendor-relationship ending dress!

Dear dress,

I love you. You're perfect. I never want to look at another dress. However, I can never see your parents again. They have forever scarred me with this three dress fiasco. I hope you understand.

Love,

Jamie

Good wedding week

2009-06-12T09:46:00.003-05:00

We officially have...

a cake baker
a chapel to get married in

and...

a dress that zips all the way!!!!!!

It is perfect! Needs only a tiny hem and a bustle! Cheers to making progress!

In other news, best wishes to blog friend and fellow GSW bride Liz on her wedding day!

À toi, pour toujours

thankful thursday #14

Wow, where have I been

Thankful Thursday #13

So sad

Thankful Thursday #12

Tuesday Shoesday, part 3

Random Wedding Photo Monday

Random Wedding Photo Monday

Thankful Thursday #11

Guess who's next?

Tuesday Shoesday, part 2

Random Wedding Photo Monday

Tuesday Shoesday, part 1

Thankful Thursday #10

There are no words

Newlyweds

Waffles

Well, it's over.

Thankful Thursday #9

How can this be?

Sometimes I wonder about this boy...

A post to kill two birds

Thankful Thursday #8

Keeping it short and sweet this week, I am thankful for his plan, his hope, and his grace.

I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Songs, please

If you're keeping score

Two weeks

Thankful Thursday #7

Guestbook and review #3

Oh, Monday...

Engagement

Catnap

Thankful Thursday #6

Happily ever after

For all the haters

Thankful Thursday #5

Thankful Thursday #4

Invitation Reveal

Thankful Thursday #3

2nd vendor review: Looks by JLW

Tuesday Shoesday Fail, a.k.a. life with cats

Invitations are on their way!

Thankful Thursday #2

First Vendor Review: Necklets Jewelry

Thankful Thursday

Gifts for my girls

A little color for this cloudy day

Speaking of Invitations...

Invitations: Attempt #1

This is what's important.

First Dance?

Getting the boy involved

They're here, they're here!

Oh my, 100 days!

If only it were this easy...

Must take photo

Studying fail

Only four months left!

Being a dog Aunt will have to do

There once was a girl

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Like having a crystal ball

A Good Cry

I have a problem

This has got to be a first

Words of wisdom

Priorities

A nice reminder

Ain't that the truth

Progress and Anti-progress

Cubs Suck

A nice contrast

Why we want a small wedding

Wanted:

Save the date hesitation

"Oh, you got to learn to roll with the changes"

Wraparound Labels? Yeah, we've got them. :)

My boy is so handy

I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11