Sara and Mike, June 16, 2007

[SaralovesMike]

Home sick from work today. I feel better than I did when I woke up this morning so now I am starting to feel guilty. Well maybe not that guilty. Maybe it's just the retail background coming back. Then I COULDN'T ever call in sick.

Anyway, I got an email from FSIL the other day. She went up to David's Bridal to pick up the swatches of fabric for the BM dresses for me. I still can't believe they charge $1 per swatch. I don't know why they charge anything if you order all your dresses from there? Whatever.
While she was there she tried on her dress and ordered it. We weren't sure how far in advance she should order just because with her being pregnant she didn't know how big she was gonna get. Well she tried it on and LOVED the dress. I was a little worried she wouldn't like it. But she did and went ahead and ordered it. They told her to leave the dress with them until she needs to have it altered (in April) because once the dress leaves the store it is a final sale. Just in case something happens and she is not able to be in the wedding.
She didn't look at the shoes since JW was starting to lose his patience.

2 dresses are now ordered and that leaves Angie my other BM and Mya my flowergirl. Angie said she was planning on ordering hers in February. They have to travel to the Mall of America (they live in MN) to go to After Hours for the tuxes and also to David's Bridal. She said they'd make a day of it.

As for Mya, we told them a little white lie when we went to shop for the dresses. On Christmas, Mya's grandma Mary Jo (also FBIL's girlfriend) hosted Christmas Day at her house with all her grandkids and my FIL's were also there. One of MJ's grand kids was very sick (flu with high fever) but she refused to cancel the gathering. Everyone thought that was pretty selfish of her being that there were other small children there as well as Caroline being pregnant, and my FIL's are older.
One of the other grandkids got pretty sick and then Mike's brother Bill got sick. We decided to tell MJ that we were cancelling the dress shopping day so she wouldn't bring the sick germs and risk the rest of us getting sick. Then the whole thing with Caroline and the almost miscarriage happened. As far as MJ was concerned we didn't go at all.
Bad I know, but still. Now I have to send them the info on the dress so that they can have Mya fitted. They don't even have to come down here (they live an hour or so away) they can go to a store near them.

As soon as that happens we will have all the girls dressed, all the guys dressed and will be able to work on some of the other little details.

[BriansBride07]

Glad to hear that you are feeling better this afternoon. I wish you all the best on getting the other girls dresses ordered. that is a great deal for your pregant bm on her dress.

[Jacklynn]

Sorry that you weren't feeling good :( But it is good news that you are feeling better now.

I'm glad they are letting her keep it there so that it isn't a final sale, what a good idea! I am glad she liked the dress as well :)

[ladymelissa]

I hope you feel better soon!

DB couldn't even give you a swatch after all you have spent in that store, that is really a shame.

[SaralovesMike]

DB couldn't even give you a swatch after all you have spent in that store, that is really a shame.

I know, isn't that something!!!


Christina, Jacklynn and Melissa: Thanks for the get well wishes!!

[SaralovesMike]

We met with Susan our florist on Saturday. I think it was pretty sucessful. We nailed down some final details and gave her some money so she can start to order the flowers we want for the ceremony.

I've decided to go with monochromatic blues and white for the bo-kays and the boots for the guys. My bo-kay will have more white with either a silver or platinum ribbon and the girls will have more blue with the peri ribbon. So far we've decided to go with hydrangea (blue), delphinium (blue), roses (white), stephanotis (white) and I think some freesia. I'm not sure what else if anything. I don't want the bo-kays too big. For the boots, the guys will have probably delphinium and something white. Not totally for sure yet.

I also got a picture of what she is going to do for the centerpieces. They are going to be 3 different sizes of vases. Every table will have a different size. This is what they will look like:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0004.jpg

You can't see it very well but the white that is going around the vase are little clear beads that look like lights.

She also gave us an idea for the gift table. We are going to have the lights on the table with probably some tuling as well as the confetti. I'm not sure if we are still going to use the letters (posted earlier) it just could be too much. I may just give them to my mom and let her use them for the shower. I forgot to bring them when we met with Susan the other day to see what she thought.

Anyway, this is the gift and cake table with the lights on them and the birdhouse for the gift table.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0001.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0003.jpg

I do want to add some color to at least the cake table so I'm thinking about getting either a runner or a table cloth in the peri. This has yet to be decided.

We owe Susan another $1000 when she places the order (w/in 90 days). She is going to try to order after Valentines Day but before Easter to save us some money. Then we don't have to give her any more money until 3 days before the wedding.

[SaralovesMike]

An update of where we're at.
Everything we've done is in pink!

6 To 12 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Establish type of wedding (formal or information) and choose a date: beach-type wedding, semi-formal, June 16, 2007
* Select Wedding Gown: David's Bridal, will post pics as soon as I can!
* Discuss gown colors and styles: 3 different styles all periwinkle
* Choose attendant's dresses: 2 out of 4 ordered! One will be done in Feb and FG will be soon.
* Visit the clergy and review church/synagogue requirements: Don Magee
* Compile size of the guest list: 170 is the max the place can hold, our list has close to 200, yikes!
* Determine your budget and discuss expenses: a lot more than either of us EVER imagined!
* Find a reception location and make reservations early: St Clair Inn, St Clair MI. Both wedding and reception will be held here.
* Select a wedding consultant: don't need it, so I guess that would be ME!

4 To 6 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Choose your attendants: 1 MOH, 2 BM, 1 FG (check!), 1 BM, 2 GM, 2 JR GM, 2 ushers, 1 RB (check!)
* Select men's formalwear: AfterHours Tuxedo. Mike and JW in notch coat with tails, platinum vests and bowties, rest of guys 2 button notch coat, periwinkle vest and bowtie.
* Choose a color theme: periwinkle and silver
* Buy wedding rings
* Book your caterer: comes with venue, haven't picked out menu yet
* Book your photographer: Mannino Photography, Royal Oak, MI
* Book your videographer: Mike's uncle Bill
* Book your dj or band: "DJ Shine" aka Donald Schuster
* Have physical examinations
* Decide your honeymoon plans
* Plan ceremony and reception music
* Compile names and addresses for guest list: also sent out Save The Dates

2 To 4 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Plan wedding decorations
* Select a florist: Susan Wolan, The Bride's Bouquet
* Order invitations and party favors
* Shop for bridal party tuxedos
* Finalize arrangement for the church and ceremony
* Make transportation arrangements
* Plan honeymoon; visit travel agencies, make reservations
* All deposits should be made and contracts signed
* Put together ideas for bridal registry


THREE MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Order the wedding cake: Kind of... we're still working out the details but we know who is doing our cake. Valerie at Party Cakes in Berkley, MI.
* Choose gifts for attendants, parents, helpers
* Buy cake knife, toasting glasses, guest book & garter

TWO MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Make plans & reservations for wedding rehearsal & dinner: backyard BBQ before the actual rehearsal, in Mike's parents backyard. Still working on rental details.
* Reserve rooms for out-of-town guests: have block set at the SCI, need to find local hotels around home for some guests
* Address invitations/announcements
Invitations should be sent 4-6 weeks prior to wedding; announcements after wedding

ONE MONTH BEFORE WEDDING
* Obtain marriage license
* Confirm details of every aspect of your wedding
* Finalize honeymoon reservations
* Contact all contracted services to confirm arrangements
* Have final fittings for you and your attendant's dresses
* Ask a friend or relative to take charge of guest book at reception: Mike's friend Kristen, she will be sort of a "go to person"/coordinator the day of the ceremony.
* Pick up wedding rings
* Purchas gift for fiance (not mandatory!)

TWO WEEKS BEFORE WEDDING
* Review reception seating and order place cards
* Prepare wedding announcement to send to newspapers
* Contact guests who have not responded

ONE WEEK BEFORE WEDDING
* Pick up your gown, attendants' dresses & accessories
* Confirm details with all participants and inform them of any changes
* Give final guest count to reception facility or caterer
* Pack for honeymoon
* Make sure you have all wedding attire, rings & marriage license
* Have rehearsal and dinner

WEDDING DAY
* Begin dressing two hours before ceremony is to begin
* Have hair & make-up done
* Take marriage license and rings to ceremony site
* Relax

[ladymelissa]

Your flowers are beautiful and your tables will look amazing!

[hummingbird521]

I love the centerpieces. They are very pretty. And the table looks great as well.

[SaralovesMike]

I've been searching for some pictures of bouquets that would have the roses, stepanotis and hydrangea in them. I found a couple and I'm still looking. This is what I've come up with so far:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/bpf_00026.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/IMG_5012.jpg

Our florist is going to add delphinium that is more of a royal blue color. I think more like the first picture. She showed me some pictures of a wedding she did that used that same flower. It will really make the bo-kays stand out.

The first picture needs more blue and the 2nd needs more white. Either way this is kind of the idea that I'm going for. I also am liking the idea of the way the 2nd one is tied. I didn't like it at first but the more I see it the more I like it.
I'm also thinking about going with a kissing ball for our FG rather than a basket. I have to go now and find some pictures.

[hummingbird521]

I really like the looks of both. But I really, really like the second one the best. It is different and I like that about it.

[BriansBride07]

Your centerpiece idea and your table idea's look great. As for the bouquets maybe you could take both pic's and tell her exactly what you want out of both of them and she can make 1 bouquet out of them. I hope that makes sense. Your to-do list is coming along great.

[SaralovesMike]

I really like the looks of both. But I really, really like the second one the best. It is different and I like that about it.

That's what I liked about it too.

[SaralovesMike]

Your centerpiece idea and your table idea's look great.

Thanks!! :)


As for the bouquets maybe you could take both pic's and tell her exactly what you want out of both of them and she can make 1 bouquet out of them. I hope that makes sense. Your to-do list is coming along great.

That's a really good idea. I'll have to remember that for our next meeting!

[SaralovesMike]

I got the day off of work today for MLK day and what did I do? I spent a good part of the day online and because of that I managed to reach my 1000th post.
I just had to put that in my journal.

Dad is having his knee replacement surgery tomorrow at 8:30 am. He's the first one, which is exactly what he wanted. He has to be there at 6:30 so the parentals will arrive here tomorrow morning at 5:45 am to pick me up. My sister and I both took the day off not only for the surgery but also to keep my mom company in the waiting room.
The surgery should last about 2 hours. He should have done this a long long time ago! I'm just glad he's finally doing it. I guess it took his daughter getting married to make him want to do it. That and the fact he's been in such horrible pain.

I'll have to put an update on how the surgery went tomorrow. Now I have to get off this darn computer, take a shower and clean up the kitchen so I can cook dinner.

[BriansBride07]

[quote=saralovesmike]I got the day off of work today for MLK day and what did I do? I spent a good part of the day online and because of that I managed to reach my 1000th post.


quote]

Congrats on reaching your 1000 th post.

[SaralovesMike]

Congrats on reaching your 1000 th post.

Thanks! I think that means I am on here entirely too much!
Oh well! LOL

[BriansBride07]

Thanks! I think that means I am on here entirely too much!
Oh well! LOL

LOL no you are just part of the chatty club now. Your welcome.

[ladymelissa]

Your dad is in my thoughts!

[Kacie_bride]

Welcome to the 1000 posts club!!!

[SaralovesMike]

Welcome to the 1000 posts club!!!

LOL thanks!

[SaralovesMike]

Ok, my first vent about the most wonderful David's Bridal. Until yesterday my experiences with them have been pretty positive. Other than the fact we spent all this money and STILL had to pay $1 for each swatch of fabric. The swatches were HUGE (to their defense) and came on a nice piece of cardboard. So I guess, it's just a dollar.

ANYWAY, I got a call yesterday from them to say that Caroline's dress was in. I'm wondering why they didn't call her but that's fine. Then I got worried! Caroline ordered her dress as late as last week and it's in. My sister Amy on the other hand ordered hers almost a month ago. That was my question, did they give me the wrong name, did they call Amy and she just didn't mention it, did they call period?
The girl that answers the phone says, no it's Caroline's dress that's in, Amy's was picked up. WHAT???? Now I know my dear sister would have said something about picking up her dress, maybe forget to say they called but NOT that she picked it up. This is what was scary, they had to pay for their dresses in full and if someone did pick it up (by mistake or whatever) there was no way to prove that she did or didn't get it. Then what do you do? I don't even remember signing anything to say I picked my own dress up. So panic mode hits pretty hard. The girl on the phone puts me on hold to do some research and comes back to say she made a mistake (thank god!!!) and no the dress wasn't picked up but it was on the truck (???) to be delivered in the next couple days. Phew!
Part 2

Caroline was told that she could leave her dress there until April when she has to have it altered. They told her as soon as the dress leaves the store it is a final sale. So if for some reason she couldn't be in the wedding she could still return it. I know this is probably not true. A few years back I had a friend that got a dress for her prom (ok more than a few years...) At the last minute the guy she was going with told her he changed his mind and didn't want to go. She tried to take the dress back and they wouldn't let her.
Alright so I ask the semi-clueless girl on the phone about leaving the dress there etc etc and she says no. The dresses must be picked up within 2 weeks and they have to be picked up Mon-Thur. They don't have room to store dresses so they want to get them out as soon as they come in.
I'm sure it's not an issue of Caroline not wanting to get the dress or that she has no where to keep it. I guess I just want to know what the truth is. Does she have to get it or can she keep it there. If one person says she can keep it there and it is supposed to pick it up within 2 weeks what happens to the dress?
I need to make that phone call later on this afternoon!

Other wedding updates: we are going to order our grooms cake this weekend. Tomorrow actually. We have a meeting set up at 11 tomorrow at Party Cakes to give her our swatch of fabric and a bigger picture of the cake. I emailed it to her months back and she said it was a really small picture. The groom's cake is going to have a Detroit Tigers theme. If I can get a picture somewhere I will post it later. When Mike talked to her she hadn't posted any on her website of the Tiger cakes she made in the past. She made a lot last summer since they made it all the way to the World Series. I should check it while I'm online.

The shower is on schedule, mom got her m&ms the other day. She was so cute! We are going to have the shower at a restaurant called Pasquales (Italian, yum!) they have banquet rooms in their basement that could hold the 50 people that are on the guest list. 50 people, wow! I will have to check the menu again but I think we get a pizza, some kind of pasta, a salad, bread and desert for about $10/pp. Mom was real happy with that and this place is really centrally located to everyone.

Work news, I'm blowing off the morning. There was a mix-up on the schedule. My mgr gave me someone elses schedule. She needed me to come in at 8 this morning but didn't schedule me til 12:15. One of the other girls have class on Friday mornings. Well my manager never said anything about switching, the other girl said something that Sandy needs me to switch my schedule but Sandy again never said anything. I was a manager. If I wanted to switch someone's schedule I would ask them personally, not go thru another part timer. So I left it alone. I got a call about 8:30 to say she needed me to come in (it was a mixup in the schedule and how soon could I get there?). I told her I had some running around to do (not far from the truth actually) and would get there ASAP. Somehow I think this will be my fault. Hmmm! Just a vent.

Well on that happy note, I guess I really should think about getting in the shower and scrounging up some breakfast and get my happy a** to work. Friday's are pretty busy there. Although I'd love to go in at noon and make the long day not seem so long.

[Kacie_bride]

My dresses from David's Bridal all came in at different times too, even though they were ordered at the same time. I think it depends on what sizes they have available at the time. I guess it's just their policy to call the bride and not the bms. That's what they did to me too. Don't worry though. Everything will work out. It did with mine.

[SaralovesMike]

Don't worry though. Everything will work out. It did with mine.

Thanks! I'm feeling much better about it, and will even moreso once I clear up the "how long can she keep it there?" situation.

[SaralovesMike]

Dad's doing ok. Today is officially day 3, surgery doesn't day count. I haven't talked to him yet this morning but last I heard he's had it pretty rough the last couple nights.
Tuesday evening, once the pain started to kick in he was miserable. Apparently everything they gave him for pain doesn't work. The reason being he has been taking so much other things for the phantom pains and his knee pain he has built up a tolerance to the meds. I saw him hit that pain pump every 10 minutes trying to get some relief and they also gave him some other meds orally. Most people would be in la la land from what he took. Wow. Anyway, that same night they put him back on oxygen because he was starting to have side effects from the meds. They also started monitoring his heart. Talk about scary! My mom is just beside herself with worry. She said last night she hates to see him in such pain.
Last night they took him off the pump and gave him some vallium that will hopefully help him relax and get some sleep.

Physical therapy he said wasn't so bad, it just kicked his butt! It was painful at first but he was walking around a little bit and that was good. Today he has physical and occupational therapy again. Hopefully he will start to learn how to do stairs since he is supposed to come home tomorrow. Mike and I will be on-call to help mom get him in the house if needed. I don't think it's going to be as easy as he thinks. He's also stubborn and is determined to get himself up those stairs. My poor mom!

Tonight if he is up to it we're gonna go see him. We didn't go the last 2 nights since he was feeling crappy and just wanted to sleep. Maybe today he is feeling better. I'm gonna call him on my lunch hour to check up on him.

Anyway, that's the latest update. I'm off to work!
I probably won't be on much thru the weekend. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

[SaralovesMike]

I feel like I haven't been around much this week. It's been pretty hectic actually and the weekend so far has been pretty busy. I actually shouldn't be on here since I really need to get my butt out of the house to get some shopping done. I haven't been totally useless this morning though, I have been working on the laundry.

Today is JW's birthday party over at my FIL's. 16 people in that small house eesh! It's a monster theme. This is the picture that is going on his cake:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/acfrank.jpg
Is he the only 4 year old you know that likes monsters like this?
We had a really cool cake made I will have to post the actual cake picture later.

We had a phone meeting with our photographer this past week. I wasn't real sure WHY we were doing this. Mike wanted to get a timeline for her for the actual wedding day. The big debate was the receiving line. He obviously didn't want to do a receiving line and was hoping we wouldn't have time to do it. We don't now after speaking with Ann Marie so we are going to do something more personal and go around to all the tables at the reception.
Anyway, this meeting was really productive and we learned a lot about how the day (with her) is going to progress. Next meeting we have set up is next Tuesday. We are going up to the St Clair Inn to discuss hopefully the menu and some other things. Hoping this one is just as productive. They haven't been too cooperative in the past so let's hope this time they are.

Today we are going to drop off the invites to Caroline. In her restful pregnancy she wants a project so she said she would put together our invitations. She said she's ready to spend many many hours folding and tying bows. She may even put them together for us as well. What a sister in law!

The talk now is how well JW will walk down the aisle. They all think he is going to not cooperate and throw things at people. I think he's going to be a lot more behaved than anyone thinks. He's a terror, but by no means out of control. Now whether or not he will walk with Mya is another story. Maybe they need to start practicing NOW!

Ok, off to get the day started!
Until later...

[ladymelissa]

I actually like the receiving line better. We did the receiving line which didn't seem to take too long (I wasn't wearing a watch so I don't know for sure), people really seem to keep moving in that type of environment. In addition, we tried to get around to the tables at the reception and that was a huge mess, one person started talking and talking to me and there was not a good time to cut them off so I could keep moving and get a chance to enjoy myself. I don't think I even got around to everyone b/c of that and other than the special dances I didn't even get a chance to dance with Mike until the last dance of the night. :(

Happy Birthday to JW! I hope the party is great!

[SaralovesMike]

until I am officially old. Ok well not really, just seems that way sometimes. My little sister turned 30 last weekend and my 35th is about 2 weeks away. Ugh! Where did the time go??
Mike's family is throwing me a birthday party on the 18th. Basically what happens is the person's whose birthday it is picks the menu as well as the desert and everyone just gets together. I am picking spagetti and my mom's meatballs for dinner, we'll have to make something else for "Big Daddy" (Mike's dad) since he won't eat it. That's par for the course though with him. He's a real meat and potatoes man. He gets a steak unless someone requests a roast or hamburgers. Mike got a desert recipe book for his birthday, deserts are his thing. He is going to pick something out from there. He said it's going to be really special. How could I pick something else when he wants to go out of his way to do something like that? Although his brother Jim made a "to-die-for" lemon and raspberry pie this past summer up north... yum!

Onto the wedding stuff....
This week we have a meeting set up with the catering manager at the St Clair Inn. We're hoping to get some ideas for the menu for the reception and tie up some other lose ends.

I'm still waiting for my sister's dress to come in from David's Bridal. Last time I talked to them they said it was on a truck and should be there in a couple days. That was almost 2 weeks ago. Something about this scares me for some reason.

We found out the other day that Mike's brother Jim wants to pay for all the rentals for the rehearsal luncheon (tents, tables, chairs) as well as have it caterered. He is also going to arrange for the extra chairs needed for the ceremony. He said that this is going to be his gift to us. Wow! That's a huge gift! It's too much. Others have told us to let him do it but it just doesn't seem right. This was going to cost us about $700-$800. Granted he knows the person who is providing the chairs and everything. I'm also pretty sure she is going to give him a deal but still.
Mike is just not ok with it. He talked to his dad the other day and even he said "let him do it." We'll see how it pans out.

We're trying to figure out a honeymoon spot. We're going to do something within driving distance and go a couple places. This is what we've come up with so far.
We leave on Sunday morning and arrive at Gettysburg, PA. We spend the day there then drive to Virginia Beach, spend 2-3 days there and come home on Saturday after the wedding.
The other option we drive down to Gatinburg, TN spend a day or so there then drive to Charleston SC spend a couple days and drive home.
Both have lots to do as well as the day on the ocean we both want. Gatlinburg and Charleston for some reason really jump out in my head but then again the other sounds good too.
He's never been to Virginia Beach, but I have. He's been to Gettysburg but I haven't. We've both been to Gatlinburg, but neither of us have been to Charleston. Decisions decisions. I guess I need to go do some searching online!

We started our get in shape for the wedding on Thursday. Granted it's only been 4 days but we've done pretty well. Thursday night we walked about 2 miles and did the same thing again on Friday. Yesterday we went down to the fitness center. Today my arms and legs are rather sore. I guess that's good- no pain no gain right?
Our plan is to work out at the fitness center 3 times a week, go for a walk 3 times a week and the last day is sort of a rest day. We did decide to do something like crunches on the ball or lift weights, just to keep going. This is the first month and we'll see where we're at come March 1st. After that we might cut back to 3-4 days a week. We've also decided to just eat better, more fruits and veggies and no junk food. Neither one of us need to lose that much. He wants to lose about 8-10 lbs. Me, probably about the same. I've got some clothes that are starting to fit tighter. I've also started to grow those patches of flab under my arms, ugh! They suddenly appeared after I turned 30. Ugh! What comes next??? Never mind I don't want to know!

Anyway, that's what's happening here. It's darn cold! Today its supposed to be a high of 4 degrees. A perfect day to stay inside with a movie! I also have to get the laundry done. Can you say lazy Sunday???

[WendyNC]

My personal opinion: Charleston is so much nicer than the other places you have mentioned. You might also like Asheville NC or Savannah GA. If you want a nice beach, try North Myrtle SC or Hilton Head SC or Outer Banks NC. Charleston beaches aren't quite "beaches" b/c the city is built up to the shore (the battery) The Outer Banks are AMAZING b/c much of the beaches are nature preserve... you can stand on the beach and pretend it is 5000 years ago! I've heard VA beach is nice but have not visited myself.

Good luck figuring it all out!

[ladymelissa]

Good luck picking a HM location!

Congrats the workouts! Keep it up and pretty soon your arms will be tight and toned!

[WhiskeyGirl]

Oh please can you come and get me motivated to start working out too?? I need it as well!! Lol But nothing short of a drill instructor or boot camp instructor can get me motivated! lol

[SaralovesMike]

Oh please can you come and get me motivated to start working out too?? I need it as well!! Lol But nothing short of a drill instructor or boot camp instructor can get me motivated! lol

I will send Mike up to spend some time with ya. Maybe then he will give me a moments rest!
He said yesterday when I wanted to take a day off, "this was your idea, I'm gonna make sure you keep up with it!"

Back to the fitness center tonight after work!!

[SaralovesMike]

Good luck picking a HM location!

Congrats the workouts! Keep it up and pretty soon your arms will be tight and toned!

Thanks!

Well the verdict is in. We spent some time last night looking for a honeymoon location and this is what we came up with.

Sunday 6/17 we leave for Gatlinburg and stay here:
http://www.deerridge.com/ (http://www.deerridge.com)
On Tuesday we arrive in Charleston to spend the rest of our HM here:
http://www.charlestonharborresort.com/index.htm?source=gaw&gclid=COvMoIWhl4oCFQ8sIgodiwwdgA

Ok, now I have to brave the cold and head off to work for a meeting at 8.
I'll be back this afternoon!

[SaralovesMike]

Well the plans for our honeymoon have been finalized. Mike called to make reservations the other day. The place in Gatlinburg I mentioned before, Deer Ridge wanted us to stay for no less than 3 nights. We're driving and we only have a week. We also want to come home sometime during the day on Saturday the 23rd so we can have a full day to recover before heading back to the grind.
Our ultimate destination is the place I mentioned before in Charleston we want to spend the most time there.

Our first stop will be Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort:
http://www.wgsmokymountains.com (http://www.wgsmokymountains.com/)

He reserved the 1 bdrm suite with a balcony which should be like this:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/SM1bdrmmaster.jpg
This is the floorplan:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/SM1bdrmfloorplan.jpg

The next stop, my favorite judging by pictures alone (hopefully it lives up to it ya know?) will be Charleston, SC. We are staying at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina.
Their website:
http://www.charlestonharborresort.com/

We're staying in a King Studio Suite (sorry can't post pictures!) with a harbor view and balcony. If you're interested you'll just have to search around their website to see pictures. As soon as I saw this place I said, "this is it!"

Next thing we have to do is look at wedding rings. We went to the jewelry store he bought my Christmas gift at last year. Nothing was really spectacular. We may look again this weekend.
He's pretty set on what he wants, just a plain simple white gold band. Me, I would like to have something that is simple but doesn't take away from my e-ring. I will post some pictures later.

This post is getting pretty long so I better stop. You know I'll be back on later! lol

[shawnsgirl]

Congrats on finalizing the honeymoon!!! That looks absolutley fabulous...I think shawn and I will end up doing something similar to that. I wouldn't mind going to Montana or Colorado too!! Anyhow...That's for another thread another time...Your honeymoon sounds and looks like it will be awesome!!!

[SaralovesMike]

We wanted to go somewhere tropical but in June places like that are just too darn hot! Plus, we have pretty decent weather here that time of year.
Both places we picked will be nice and warm.
What we will probably do is go somewhere tropical when it's really cold here (like it is today!).

Montana or Colorado would be awesome! Colorado was on our list too. It would take too long to drive though and Mike doesn't really like to fly.

[shawnsgirl]

We wanted to go somewhere tropical but in June places like that are just too darn hot! Plus, we have pretty decent weather here that time of year.
Both places we picked will be nice and warm.
What we will probably do is go somewhere tropical when it's really cold here (like it is today!).

Montana or Colorado would be awesome! Colorado was on our list too. It would take too long to drive though and Mike doesn't really like to fly.

That's our problem...We got September and I would love to go to the Carribean..Well, I don't think so during Hurricane season..So, we're looking into different options...Who knows what we'll end up doing!

Hey...Maybe we should have one big bachlorette party for all of us on one wed here and go to some place warm and celebrate!! I'm game for that right about now!!!

[SaralovesMike]

Hey...Maybe we should have one big bachlorette party for all of us on one wed here and go to some place warm and celebrate!! I'm game for that right about now!!!

Me too!!!
I'm so tired of being cold.

[SaralovesMike]

Since I'm still searching for something that will look good with my e-ring I decided to post some that I like here. Feel free to comment which one you like best.

This is the only picture I have of my ring. This is the picture he took of it for the insurance before he gave it to me. I guess I should actually take a picture of me wearing it huh? At any rate this is it:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/ring.jpg
The center stone is .8 carat and the stones on each side are about .6 each.

These are some of the wedding bands I like. I want something that won't take away from my e-ring. I want something to complement it. Maybe just a gold (white) band will be enough?

#1
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/AB15500300_zoom.jpg
#2
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/RG00002401-32_zoom.jpg
#3
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/AB03500300_zoom.jpg

#2 and #3 are very similar, just smaller stones in the 3rd.

[SaralovesMike]

I should probably also post the ring that Mike is looking at. This is exactly what he wants, except in white gold, not platinum. This is even the comfort-fit band he tried on in the store and liked.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/WB36500600_zoom.jpg

He won't consider anything else but plain and simple. I guess that's good since we're probably going to spend more on my ring and Mr Budget can save some on his ring. LOL

I shouldn't give him such a hard time about the budget, he keeps my over-spending butt in line and we're actually saving money for the first time in my life! I guess it works out huh??

[BriansBride07]

Since I'm still searching for something that will look good with my e-ring I decided to post some that I like here. Feel free to comment which one you like best.

This is the only picture I have of my ring. This is the picture he took of it for the insurance before he gave it to me. I guess I should actually take a picture of me wearing it huh? At any rate this is it:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/ring.jpg
The center stone is .8 carat and the stones on each side are about .6 each.

#3
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/AB03500300_zoom.jpg

.

I like #3 with your E-ring. Your e-ring is gorgous BTW>

[ladymelissa]

That is the same band my Mike has, except his is titanium.

Your HM sounds fabulous!

About your wedding band, I would pick either 2 or 3, whichever one matches the size of the side stones on your e-ring the best.

[SaralovesMike]

Melissa, sometimes I wonder if your Mike and mine are long lost brothers or something! LOL

[ladymelissa]

Melissa, sometimes I wonder if your Mike and mine are long lost brothers or something! LOL
Highly unlikely, but you never know! LOL

[SaralovesMike]

Highly unlikely, but you never know! LOL

I know it, it's just funny. They are alike in some things, maybe it's just the name. lol.

[SaralovesMike]

Thank God it's Friday!!

It's been a pretty long week, at least it seems that way. It would really feel like the weekend if I didn't have to work tomorrow. Oh well, that's the joys of banking I guess. Thankfully we're only open a few hours. Nothing like my days in retail. Then I'd have one weekend off a month, now I work one a month. I wouldn't change a thing!!!

I finally got the dress dilemma settled at David's Bridal. Hopefully anyway. My sister's dress finally came in, no one ever bothered to call me. I called to find out what was going on with that since I hadn't heard anything. Sure enough it had arrived. Then I asked about Caroline's dress (FSIL) and the continuing saga of "does she have to pick it up or not."
Again, a different answer. This lady told me that if someone told her (Caroline) that she could keep the dress there until April when it would be altered then that was fine. She was going to make a note in my file. I told Caroline to call up there and ask in a few days just to make sure.
Next weekend Mya (FG) is coming to visit her grandma (FBIL Bill's girlfriend). Mary Jo (FBIL's GF) wanted us to come and sort of hang out with Mya. She's very shy and hasn't really spent that much time with us. Why is she our flowergirl? We wanted to pair someone up with JW who is the same age and Mike thought of Mya. Bill and Mary Jo have been together over 10 years so she is pretty much family anyway. Anyway, MJ and I are going to take Mya to David's Bridal to try on and hopefully order her dress for the wedding. Mike and Bill are going to find something "productive" to do while we're there. They DO NOT want to stay at David's. Can't say I blame them. :)

Well I'm off to see what else I've missed in the last day or so around here as well as scrounge up some dinner. Mike's out with a buddy for the evening so I've got the place to myself! Woo Hoo!!! :)
I'm sure I won't leave this computer most of the night but I still love the fact I'm home alone!

[Natasha]

Stories like yours are what kept me from ordering from david's. they make me nervous! I really like your e ring, and I think I like the first or third band you showed. How exciting to be finalizing honeymoon stuff!

[SaralovesMike]

Thanks Natasha!

I'm not sure what to think about David's Bridal. My first experience was great, that was when I got my dress. The next time was not that exciting and FSIL had an equally unexciting time with them too.
The only reason I went with them was because they have actual sizes to try on and they had a good selection of maternity dresses. We'll have to see how Saturday goes with my FG and again how it goes with my cousin when she goes to order her dress this month in Minnesota.

[NicksBride]

Love your rings, they are sooooo pretty!

[SaralovesMike]

It's snowing like you wouldn't believe out there tonight. Mike was crazy enough to go out for a walk. He wanted to be outside in the snow. What can I tell you?

Onto the wedding news....
I finalized the flowers with Susan via email yesterday. We have a meeting tentatively set up for next weekend. She wants us to bring her another payment so she can go ahead and start to place the order.
I've decided to go with blues and whites for my bo-kays and the girls' bo-kays. She is going to use hydrangea, delphinium, stephanotis and white roses. The girls bo-kays are going to have more blue in them and mine is going to have more white. They are going to be a combination of these 2 bo-kays:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/bpf_00026.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/IMG_5012.jpg

For the outdoor decorations she is going to do something similar to the picture that was on the St Clair Inn's website:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/decorations.jpg
Ours is going to have a lot more blue in the flowers and she is going to add some pinks to highlight. She is also going to put up some tuling and white lights. We probably won't have those fern type plants that are shown nor will we have the white balls. The tables are going to have similar vases on them with periwinkle marbles and a floating candle in them.

Now things are really starting to get moving again as far as the wedding plans. Mike has arranged for the bag pipers and the drummer to play during the ceremony. Now we just need to find some music. For the recessional they are going to play "Scotland the Brave" and for my entrance they are playing "Highland Cathedral."
Mike really wants them to play "Amazing Grace" for maybe the unity ceremony (another thing to figure out since we can't do a candle being outside). Now we just have to figure out songs for the bridal party entrance and the seating of the mom's.
I wonder if it would be strange to have the DJ play music while people are seated, including the BP and mothers then have the bag pipers play only for my entrance, the unity ceremony and the recessional.
Guess I need to do some research...

Gonna go watch what's going on with this crazy weather.
Stay warm!

[shawnsgirl]

It's snowing something fierce here to today into tomorrow..Our first snow storm this winter!!

As far as you bouquets they are very pretty. I really like the Bm bouquets. All of your flowers and decorations are wonderful.

THe ides of having your DJ play while the MOB. MOG, and bridesmaids are seated isn't a bad idea. The only thing to watch is having them communicate with the timing. I think though live music has a much more effect. Perhaps, even the musicians could offer you some suggestions.

[SaralovesMike]

It's snowing something fierce here to today into tomorrow..Our first snow storm this winter!!

Ours too. It's snowed a little but nothing like we got last night into this morning. What a mess. We're supposed to get more this weekend, but not as bad. Can't wait!

As far as you bouquets they are very pretty. I really like the Bm bouquets. All of your flowers and decorations are wonderful.
Thanks! My florist has given me a lot of guidance with the flowers, I'm pretty clueless when it comes to that. She's been awesome, I can't wait to see how it all comes out.

THe ides of having your DJ play while the MOB. MOG, and bridesmaids are seated isn't a bad idea. The only thing to watch is having them communicate with the timing. I think though live music has a much more effect. Perhaps, even the musicians could offer you some suggestions.

I asked Mike to get in touch with the bag piper to see what he suggests. I've only heard him by phone. That scared me b/c it didn't sound all that great. Mike REALLY has his heart set on the bag pipes though and he said he's the best so how can I argue with that.
I have to let him make some of the decisions right? ;)

[shawnsgirl]

Yeah, if he really wants to bag pipes I wouldn't argue with that. Sometimes things that don't really matter that much to the brides should be left to the FH to decide. For instance: I cannot find one single favor out there that I like or that would go with the theme. Shawn has a couple ideas, none of which I'm thrilled about. I finally just said look you go ahead and you make and buy the favors. For me, it's one last things I need to think about!!

[SaralovesMike]

For instance: I cannot find one single favor out there that I like or that would go with the theme. Shawn has a couple ideas, none of which I'm thrilled about. I finally just said look you go ahead and you make and buy the favors. For me, it's one last things I need to think about!!

That's nice he wants to help out with that! Mike is very involved with everything except the favors. He said if it was up to him we wouldn't have any. I've tried to show him different things and he's always like, "Whatever you want is fine with me!"
As far as the bag pipers go, it's his day too. He wants something to tie in his Scottish heritage. As long as he doesn't want to wear a kilt! LOL :)
It will different, I've never been to a wedding with bag pipes. Mine will be the first!

[SaralovesMike]

On Saturday we took Mya, my flower girl, to try on and order her dress. Thankfully I had already some dresses in mind for her to try on. She was simply not having it! The first dress she wouldn't even come out of the fitting room to look in the mirror. Mary Jo (her grandma) had to pick her up and carry her. The 2nd was ok and then when she tried on the 3rd she liked the dress. This time she let me take her picture and she came out to look at herself in the mirror. Mike and his brother Bill came with us- they were a sight in David's bridal trying to make themselves invisible in a corner. But, they insisted on staying there and waiting.
When we went to look at the shoes and hair thing she was all into it. She even wanted to look at jewelry. The true girl in her came out!

Mya is very shy, it will be interesting to see if she will actually walk down the aisle at the wedding. She is scared to death of people she doesn't know. Yesterday we were at Mike's parent's for my birthday and they brought Mya over. She is staying with Bill and Mary Jo until today. That little girl clung to Mary Jo and ended up staying in Mike's dad's room by herself most of the afternoon. She finally came out just before we had desert. Mike won her heart by giving her cake. I think she is still scared of him though. We got a coupon for "Build a Bear" at David's Bridal which we are going to take her and James.
Maybe then she will warm up to scary Uncle Mike!

Anyway here is the picture of Mya in her dress:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1090.jpg
The bows on her dress are going to be periwinkle to match the sash on the dress.
This is the back with the sash- try to ignore the price tag for the sash!
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1091.jpg
She is going to make a cute little flower girl! As long as she cooperates that is...

[nic1124]

She is a cutie! I was super shy when I was young and somehow I made it down the aisle at my sisters wedding. I'm sure she'll be fine!

[SaralovesMike]

When we were at David's Bridal on Saturday I also picked up Amy's (my sister and MOH) dress.
This is her wearing it at the store in the wrong color:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/AmysDress.jpg

This is the actual dress:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1093.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1092.jpg

They are going to wear the Jane shoes, dyed periwinkle to match the dress:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/05S_Jane.jpg

Since I can't post any more pictures on this posting the next will be the other 2 dresses.

[hummingbird521]

Your fg is adorable. The dress looks wonderful on her. Love the moh dress as well. Beautiful colors.

[SaralovesMike]

My sister the good sport! She tried on all 3 dresses so I could take a picture. Yes, she even wanted to try on the maternity dress. She even asked if she could try it with a pregnancy pillow that DB has. She's too much!

This is her in Angie's dress. Again, this is the wrong color. I was just glad to be able to try on the dress in one color. This one is part of their seperates and we had a really hard time finding her size in the same color.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/AngiesDress.jpg

This is Amy in Caroline's dress. The maternity dress!
This time this one was actually in the right color.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/CarolinesDress.jpg

I'm really getting worried about Caroline. She is pregnant and is due on June 30. She has a condition called Placenta Previa and more than likely she will have the baby early. We're hoping earlier than our wedding, she's actually hoping for May and I guess it's a good possibility. She will more than likely be on bed rest any minute which means she might not be able to even be at the wedding. Yesterday she was having a lot of pressure and pain and that makes you worry even more. We just hope everything goes well and the baby is healthy. Just keeping our fingers crossed at this point!

[SaralovesMike]

She is a cutie! I was super shy when I was young and somehow I made it down the aisle at my sisters wedding. I'm sure she'll be fine!

I was too, my uncles still joke how I didn't talk to them until I was 18. I don't think it was 18 but I was pretty shy. She is much much worse than I ever thought. Maybe she will be ok if she walks with Mike's nephew who is our RB. This kid is so much the opposite!

[SaralovesMike]

Your fg is adorable. The dress looks wonderful on her. Love the moh dress as well. Beautiful colors.

She is isn't she! :)
She is going to steal the show if she doesn't hide.

Thanks Treasia!

[nic1124]

The dresses are very pretty. Everyone is gonna look great. Having my cousin (ringbearer) to walk with me is probably the only thing that got me down there, so I'm sure having someone with her will help.

[SaralovesMike]

Having my cousin (ringbearer) to walk with me is probably the only thing that got me down there, so I'm sure having someone with her will help.

That's what we're hoping will happen. Her grandma is going to also be at the back and her mom is going to be down front. We're also hoping on JW's arm or holding his hand-they're both 4 so who even knows if either will happen- with mom and grandma to guide her thru everything will be ok.

I was a flowergirl in my aunts wedding when I was 7 or 8. I remember being excited about it, but scared to go down the aisle. I also went down with my cousin who was ring bearer.

[Natasha]

Your dresses look great! And the FG is too cute!

[rocksnurse]

hi sara and mike I just noticed you getting married the same day as me!! I am a new member over here and just trying to make some friends. So its kind of your anniversary that day!! Me and Rob will have been together 10 years on the day we get married and we have got vows that say this. It's nice to see I can share my special day with another

[ladymelissa]

I love the FG dress, it is so pretty! The other dresses look wonderful, too. I will keep Caroline in my thoughts.

[SaralovesMike]

I love the FG dress, it is so pretty! The other dresses look wonderful, too. I will keep Caroline in my thoughts.

Thanks!

Caroline can use the good thoughts. Her due date has been moved up to June 17th. It seems as though she will not be able to be in the wedding. By then she should be on bed rest AND the fact since she is high risk she wants to be close to home. What a bummer! She's bummed that she is going to miss her little brother's wedding and she thinks I'm gonna be upset if she can't be in the wedding.
As long as she and the baby are healthy, that's all I care about.
Plus there is still the fact that she may have the baby even earlier. We're hoping May! lol

[SaralovesMike]

hi sara and mike I just noticed you getting married the same day as me!! I am a new member over here and just trying to make some friends. So its kind of your anniversary that day!! Me and Rob will have been together 10 years on the day we get married and we have got vows that say this. It's nice to see I can share my special day with another

Yay! A date buddy! :)
Yep, it will be 2 years since we met the day we get married.
10 years! Congratulations to you and Rob as well. Happy planning!

[Goin2thechapel]

I actually love the 1st wedding ring...

And I love love love your BM'S pregnancy dress....soo pretty!!

[SaralovesMike]

And I love love love your BM'S pregnancy dress....soo pretty!!

She really liked it too! We were kind of afraid getting a maternity dress, seeing as all the others we're not very nice. This one was cute on. We were really happy.

[ladymelissa]

Thanks!

Caroline can use the good thoughts. Her due date has been moved up to June 17th. It seems as though she will not be able to be in the wedding. By then she should be on bed rest AND the fact since she is high risk she wants to be close to home. What a bummer! She's bummed that she is going to miss her little brother's wedding and she thinks I'm gonna be upset if she can't be in the wedding.
As long as she and the baby are healthy, that's all I care about.
Plus there is still the fact that she may have the baby even earlier. We're hoping May! lol
Awww, I feel bad for her. I am hoping for a healthy baby and mother and then for an early delivery.

[SaralovesMike]

Awww, I feel bad for her. I am hoping for a healthy baby and mother and then for an early delivery.

Thanks Melissa, that means a lot! :)

[SaralovesMike]

This was supposed to be the weekend that we had Mike's nephew. We did it as a favor to his sister. She's unofficially on bedrest, her doctor told her that being on rest with a 4 year old is pretty much impossible. She has to do the best she can. Her hubby doesn't do a whole lot to help her out which means bedrest or anything close is pretty much out the window.
So, Mike and I decided that we could take little JW for the weekend so she could have some time to herself and relax. It was a great idea until it was time for bed tonight.

The evening went pretty well. I got home from work close to 7, the boys came in soon after. We wanted to take JW to Build-A-Bear up at the mall. We got a coupon there for Mya (FG) last weekend at David's Bridal so we thought we'd take JW. He made his bear, a white bear with shamrocks all over him (he picked out) that he dressed in a little tuxedo and named "polka dot"
We came home and I warmed up some left over pizza for Mike and I. Mike turned on "Wolfman Meets Frankenstein" at the request of JW. JW had some pizza and I actually got him to eat some blackberries. The only fruit this kid will eat are strawberries. He even asked me to give them to him tomorrow at breakfast with his donut.
Then it was time to get ready for bed. He got into his jammies ok and brushed his teeth. After playing a little he even agreeably went to bed. Then the tears started. He yelled at both Mike and I and wouldn't tell either of us what was wrong until he finally said he wanted to go home. Mike and I just looked at eachother like "now what?"
We figured he would just cry himself to sleep. Not a chance! After almost an hour of this Mike got up and called Caroline. He left about a 1/2 hour ago to take him home. Poor kid! And here we thought it was so easy to get him to bed. The other times we've had him we had to wind him down and it took longer than either of us expected to get him to sleep. Not tonight!
I hate the thought of Mike driving this late. Poor guy was dog tired as it was and his sister is at minimum 30 minutes from us. I'm just hoping he makes it there and back safe.
I'm trying to stay up and wait for him myself, which is why I'm online so late. Gotta do something to occupy myself right?

Now we really have nothing going on this weekend since JW went home. We are supposed to meet with our florist on Sunday to finalize the flowers. She is going to place the order this week!

Anyway, I'm off to see what else is happening around here before I head off to bed.

Have a great weekend!

[ladymelissa]

What a nightmare! I hope Mike made it back safely and I hope the rest of your weekend is great!

[BriansBride07]

I love your FG dresses as for the BM's dresses.

Poor Mike sorry to hear he had to go out so late b/c the little guy wanted to go home. It may be that he is worried about his mom and all, and wanted to be home with her. Since she is on bed rest. Kids are funny like that. Even if nothing is mentioned around them, they can sense when something is not right. I hope all goes well with Mike's sister and her baby.

[MOB Karen]

Yeah, kids are funny like that. You never know when they are going to need their mommies. I hope Mike got home safely from the trip. :)

[SaralovesMike]

Mike got home safely last night. Of course as soon as he got home he crashed out. I think he feels bad that JW wanted to go home last night, he keeps asking me if he's a bad uncle.
How can he be a bad uncle for taking the little man home at midnight? How can he be a bad uncle period? He loves that little guy!

Anyway, this morning when JW woke up he asked his mom if Mike and I were going to come take him to the mall again. Too funny.

Yea, maybe he does sense things about his mom and her pregnancy. He knows that he is getting a little brother or sister now. I guess his first reaction was not too good, then he kissed mommies belly and said "I love the baby!"
He still tells everyone that he is going to go live with Uncle Jimmy (Mike's other brother) until the baby goes away. I'm sure he will change his opinions once the baby comes, hopefully.

Mike went to take down his Christmas decorations at his folks today. So unlike him to take everything down in February! Don't worry, they haven't turned anything on. He wants to get over there today since we're supposed to get some snow over the next day or so. Winter Storm Watch for us thru Monday- eesh! He's been waiting to do this since January. First we got the bitter cold, then the snow. I guess if he doesn't do it today then it may still be up come spring!
Me, I'm going to go to the mall and spend my birthday gift certificates.
Don't know what we're going to do tonight though. Relax probably!

Happy Saturday!

[ladymelissa]

I am glad he made it back safe! We are supposed to get an ice storm out of that system...just lovely. Ice storms are the worst, I would much rather have snow. Have fun at the mall!

[SaralovesMike]

I'd rather have snow too!

I just want to know what happened to the 50 degree weather we were supposed to get as of last weekend!

[ladymelissa]

That's right! Tomorrow was supposed to be mid 40s, I forgot about that! I guess the winds change. LOL We have been above freezing most of the week, all we have left from the blizzard are the big drifts and piles of snow.

[SaralovesMike]

Yep, so much for spring...oh well it will come soon enough.

That's all that's left here too. Ugly brown snow and snow drifts. Sounds like it may change though. I won't believe it til I see it ya know??

[SaralovesMike]

I had a dermatologist appointment this morning. The 3rd follow up appointment from the mole they removed over the summer. It wasn't skin cancer the cells were just abnormal and they wanted to keep an eye on it. Since it was removed I had gone back now 3 times, today everything looks good. She didn't do anything to it and said that she'll see me in July for my yearly appointment.

After the appointment I ended up at Michaels. I wanted to look at some ideas for favors. I'm pretty sure I know what I want I just wanted to see what they had. I ended up buying some stuff and came up with our favors for the reception. It turned out even better than I thought!

Here are 2 pictures, one came out really light and the other maybe too dark but you get the idea:

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1141.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1142.jpg

I saw those butterfly garden seeds online and I want to order those. We're not going to do matchbooks and napkins but we wanted to do something. I thought the butterfly garden was a cute idea. What to put it in???
A girl at work inspired me. I thought I would use the terracotta pot and wasn't really sure what else to do with the seeds. She suggested wrapping it in celophane and tying it with a ribbon.
I saw a book at Michaels about favors and actually saw the terracotta pot but with flowers in it and no wrapping. I kind of took both ideas and this is what I came up with. The silk flowers are hydrangea and white roses that will be in the bo-kays. I put in a tea bag I had around the house just to see how it would look. Then instead of celophane I just used white tulle and tied it with a silver ribbon. I bought periwinkle ribbon as well but you can't really see it. I think I need bigger ribbon.
I think that this afternoon I'm going to go back up there and get some more flowers, pots and ribbon.
After I see what's going on around here I am also going to order our programs and try to find those butterfly garden seeds again.

This post was longer than expected so I will end it here and in the next one talk about the rings!

Back in a minute!

[BriansBride07]

Glad to hear the appt. went well. and there is no sign of cancer

your favors are just to cute. thanks for sharing.

[SaralovesMike]

On Sunday we were supposed to meet with Susan our florist/decorator for the wedding. That didn't happen, the weather was not cooperating (freezing rain and snow, ugh!). We had been a couple places looking at wedding bands, all of which were WAY out of the budget. We kept seeing a commercial on TV for The Jewelry Factory and thought to go check it out. We weren't too excited about going to the mall and looking at places there (Helzberg, Kay etc). Someone I used to work with had a really bad experience with Kay Jewelers which really reinforced that decision. But that's another story. Anyway, we had to run and do some errands on Sunday. Grocery shopping mostly but also some other things. Mike was online and I told him to look up Jewerly Factory and see where it was. He says, "Do you want to go there?"
An hour or so later we were looking at rings.

They didn't have an awesome selection. The men's rings were really gaudy. Mike was done looking in a matter of seconds and I was worried. I tried on some different rings myself and had a better idea of what I liked.

I decided on this one:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/ah5-l.jpg
Mine is actually white gold but the same setting. It looks perfect with my e-ring.
Mike picked his out too, sorry I don't have a picture. His is also white gold. It is a 3 mm white gold band, comfort fit. He didn't want anything on it, no detail, no diamonds. He said "Plain Jane" and that's what he got. His ring came in yesterday and Mike will be ready on Saturday. We'll have real pictures over the weekend!

The best part is we spent a lot less than either of us would have thought. That made my accountant FH very very happy. One more thing knocked off the list!

[SaralovesMike]

Glad to hear the appt. went well. and there is no sign of cancer

your favors are just to cute. thanks for sharing.

Thank you!! :)

[BriansBride07]

Your welcome!

your wedding ring is so pretty. I know my FH only wants a plain jane white gold band also.

Sorry the weather kept you from the florist and decorator.

[SaralovesMike]

Your welcome!

your wedding ring is so pretty. I know my FH only wants a plain jane white gold band also.

Sorry the weather kept you from the florist and decorator.

Thanks again! You're so sweet :)

Actually, even though the weather was crappy we still managed to get something wedding related accomplished.
We're supposed to meet with her this weekend, I think...
She wants money to start ordering the flowers and everything.

[ladymelissa]

Congrats on the rings! Yours is beautiful and the plain ring looks very nice, that is what my Mike has (we discussed that before though LOL)

I am so glad your appointment went well.

Your favors are beautiful! How big are they? Everyone gets one?

[SaralovesMike]

Congrats on the rings! Yours is beautiful and the plain ring looks very nice, that is what my Mike has (we discussed that before though LOL)

We did didn't we! :)

I am so glad your appointment went well.

Thanks, it's a relief for sure.
I'm just glad they found whatever it could have been long before it was anything to worry about you know?

Your favors are beautiful! How big are they? Everyone gets one?

Thanks! (again:))
The pots are 2" tall. Not very big at all. Everyone will get one, we are planning on putting them at every place setting.

[NicksBride]

Your ring is stunning!!! The favors are sooooo freakin cute I am sure people will love them. :)

You are humming right along. :)

[KMS]

The favors are so pretty and creative. I'd be thrilled if I got one of those as a favor at a wedding.

I'm glad that you found your rings, especially for less $ than you expected. That's always a plus!

[ladymelissa]

Thanks, it's a relief for sure.
I'm just glad they found whatever it could have been long before it was anything to worry about you know?



Thanks! (again:))
The pots are 2" tall. Not very big at all. Everyone will get one, we are planning on putting them at every place setting.

The pic made the favors look huge, almost like 6" pots! LOL I was wondering how you were going to fit all of that on the tables! LOL

I am just glad you are okay.

[hummingbird521]

Your ring is beautiful. I love it. I am partial to white gold as well. I like it much more than yellow. DH's ring is plain jane white gold too. your favors are really pretty and what a nice idea.

[SaralovesMike]

The pic made the favors look huge, almost like 6" pots! LOL I was wondering how you were going to fit all of that on the tables! LOL

I am just glad you are okay.

Yea, I thought that when I added the picture. Nope only little ones.

Thanks, you're so sweet! :flower:

[SaralovesMike]

The favors are so pretty and creative. I'd be thrilled if I got one of those as a favor at a wedding.

Aww! Thanks so much!

I'm glad that you found your rings, especially for less $ than you expected. That's always a plus!

Gonna pick them up tomorrow!
Yep, now we get to spend that extra money on something else, LOL.

[SaralovesMike]

We picked up our wedding rings this past weekend. We have them locked up in the filing cabinet now until the wedding. Every time I come into the computer room I can't help but open it up and take a look at them. I am doubtful that he is as obsessed as I am though.

3 months away! I can't believe it!!!!!!

My shower is now set for April 21. My sister who was invited to a wedding the same day told them she wasn't coming and that we couldn't change the date of the shower. I'm suprised she did that, she's been pretty un-cooperative up to now. Anyway, it's all set to go. My mom is supposed to make the reservation sometime this week and get the invites out soon thereafter.

We're still debating on the favors. I don't know that we are going to use the ones that I had posted earlier. It's a lot of work not to mention it's going to be expensive to pull it all together. I'm thinking of just going with the bells as place card holders and bubbles. I've been asking everyone what they got as a favor at the last wedding the went to. The common response is: "I don't remember" or nothing. We might put the disposable cameras on each table but that has yet to be decided. It all depends on whether or not we can keep under budget. I think it will work, I just have to find the rest at a decent price.

We meet with our flower lady tomorrow night after work. If Mike doesn't end up postponing again, we will finalize everything with the flowers for the ceremony and reception and she will start to order everything.
We're supposed to get some snow again tonight so I'm thinking we won't be going to see her tomorrow night but we'll see. That's just my guess at this point.

Well, Mike should be home soon and I have to get dinner started. Time to get off this darn computer for the night! LOL

[ladymelissa]

Yay for a shower date and getting the rings!

For pretty and inexpensive favors you could make hershey kiss roses. You can even get the fancy, blue cellophane during Easter time (or even after Easter to save even more money).

[rocksnurse]

great news about the rings!!! I cant believe how close the weddiiing is! I gotta start wrapping thiings up now but it sounds like we both on the same level

[SaralovesMike]

For pretty and inexpensive favors you could make hershey kiss roses. You can even get the fancy, blue cellophane during Easter time (or even after Easter to save even more money).

I saw those and I also saw "a spoonful of kisses" which is a couple Hershey's kisses on a plastic spoon wrapped in celophane. That's another idea I've been thinking about.

Thanks for the reminder about the Easter colors, that might be just the time to get what we want!

[SaralovesMike]

great news about the rings!!! I cant believe how close the weddiiing is! I gotta start wrapping thiings up now but it sounds like we both on the same level

I know!! The next 12 weeks are gonna fly by.

[Georgiana Hartherford]

So I just read through your whole journal, and I love your ideas! I really hope that Caroline and the baby will be okay, and hopefully able to be in the wedding! Good luck with everything! Your dresses and rings are beautiful!

[SaralovesMike]

Thanks for stopping by Georgiana!
Thanks for the nice compliments! :)

[SaralovesMike]

Last night we went over to my mom and dad's. We made dinner for them for my mom's birthday. She's been pretty burned out taking care of my dad since his knee surgery. This was actually my dad's idea to let her have a nice night to relax and enjoy her birthday.

Dad's doing pretty well. I don't think I've updated that lately. He's graduated to a cane and gets around the house pretty well. He still isn't bending his knee to 90 degrees yet. He can bend to about 77 and that's it. He says it's almost stuck and very painful to try and bend it any further. His physical therapist scared him by telling him that if he doesn't reach that 90 degree mark he is going to have to go back to the hospital and they will put him under and bend it for him. Yikes!! Thankfully his dr doesn't believe in that. He says he doesn't see any difference in doing that or just agressive physical therapy. Needless to say he was relieved and has been in pretty good spirits since.
The only thing now is he hurt his shoulder the other day trying to get into the shower. He heard a sort of "pop" and felt almost paralyzed in his arm afterwards. Mom's afraid he tore his rotator cuff and this will set him back with his recovery. Hopefully not, he seemed ok last night so we'll see. I just hope if this is something that is bothering him- he's a stubborn Marine and won't admit to things like this- he will go to the doctor and at least have it looked at. It's doubtful though.

[SaralovesMike]

We also hammered out our wedding guest list last night with mom and dad. The banquet room at the St Clair Inn can hold 164 people. That is 10 tables of 10 in the main room, the head table (12 will fit comfortably any more that that will be kind of tight) and 5 tables in the pool room. Our list is up to 195, including people we have put on a "B" list (not priority). We're figuring now that we can invite everyone on the guest list and still be ok. They say that 30% of your guest list don't come which means that we will have less than the 164. Thankfully! I was worried about having the unpleasant conversation with my parents about cutting some of their guests. My dad has a couple of friends that went ahead and booked their rooms before they even had an invitation. They booked as soon as they heard we were getting married and settled on the venue. I thought that odd, seeing as that would not be something I would do. Whatever right?

As far as the baby update...
Caroline is due on June 17. Where it stands right now she is not going to be in the wedding unless she gives birth early. With her condition it is very likely that she will have that baby earlier but at this point since she is high risk she needs to be near home around her due date in case something happens. I can't say that I blame her and totally understand. I know she's bummed about not being able to see her little brother get married but her health and the baby's health are so much more important.
I'm hoping for an early delivery not only so she can be at the wedding but also because she wants Mike in the delivery room with her. Yes that sounds strange that she wants her brother over her husband. But the plain honest truth is that Mike is much better in those situations. He is very calming where Jim is the exact opposite. He will be there for the birth obviously but can't handle the actual delivery. Maybe if she wasn't having a cesarean it would be different?
Mike was in the delivery room with her when JW was born. I still think that is awesome. He said he'd be there again for this one. I want him to be there for her and he very well can't if we're getting married or on our honeymoon.

Mike went to the St Patricks Day parade in downtown Detroit today so I have most of the afternoon to work on some wedding stuff. I'm on a mission to get the rest of our favors ordered, our place cards and table cards ordered and get some more invitations addressed. Things I can't do when he's around. Not that he can't see that stuff, he is just a distraction! LOL.

[SaralovesMike]

I ordered our toasting glasses from Things Remembered the other day. They are supposedly going to be shipped tomorrow.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/000569729-1.jpg

A close up with the engraving:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/569729_1-600.jpg

Someday we hope to display this in a curio cabinet of some sort with other wedding related things, our wedding album, pictures things like that.

[SaralovesMike]

We got our first wedding gift yesterday. Kind of early and definitely a suprise! It was from Mike's best friend's brother in California. He isn't coming to the wedding but wanted us to send him an invite so he could send us a gift. We got the knife block set we registered for at BB&B. It was pretty exciting.

We got out last night to enjoy the great weather-it was 72 degrees yesterday!:cool:
I've been complaining about gaining some weight so Mike and I started walking again. He also suggested doing crunches. After our walk we went to Subway and picked up dinner. I got on the computer and did some stuff with our guest list and then he says "it's time to do some crunches!"

I wasn't feeling up to it and he got frustrated. He got mad and told me he doesn't want to hear about this anymore, he's done with it. Then stormed off to the other room. About 9, the lights and tv in the bedroom went out. I continuing to be stubborn and ended up falling asleep on the couch.
I'm sure that didn't help the situation and to add insult to injury, he left for work without even saying goodbye.
Argh!! Now I feel even worse.

Our first "fight." :whyme:

[Goin2thechapel]

Aww..Sorry about the argument. But it's awesome that you're being proactive by walking. I too beg Jon to help motivate me, but get angry when he does...LOL...We're women...We do stuff like this alll the time!

[SaralovesMike]

Aww..Sorry about the argument. But it's awesome that you're being proactive by walking. I too beg Jon to help motivate me, but get angry when he does...LOL...We're women...We do stuff like this alll the time!

Yea, that's how we are. I know he has the best of intentions. Sometimes he pushes TOO hard. He wants to fix the problems of the world! Gotta love him for it though.
Everything's good now, the nice thing is we can and do talk about things and take care of the problems and not avoid it.

[SaralovesMike]

Our toasting glasses came in the mail yesterday. Actually I had them delivered to Mike at work. He said when he opened them up one of the ladies at work said how pretty they were and how he "must really love her!"
I thought that was cute.
They are really pretty, and HEAVY. There are also 3 little Swarovski crystals on the stems of the glasses which I didn't notice before.

Tonight we're supposed to meet with Don our pastor. This is probably the last meeting with him before the wedding. We've been in sort of counseling with him and I think tonight is the last time for that. The next time will be to discuss the actual ceremony. I'd like to get that done ASAP so I can get working on the programs. We also received those in the mail the other day. They turned out really nice. The outside isn't as bright as I though they were. The colors are really soft pastel colors. The only problem is the inside is bright pink. Oh well, not that big of a deal I guess.

My mom mailed out the invitations to my shower yesterday. We're set for April 21. We're going to an Italian restaurant called Pasquales. They have such awesome food! Mom's got her M&Ms ready to roll. She and my aunt are also making a "towel cake." I can't wait to see how it turns out. My aunt is very creative. She did one for my cousin's baby shower and it was so cute!
Mom also put in an index card with the invites asking everyone to bring a favorite recipe. I think they are going to put them all in a little box for us.

It seems as though FSIL is going to have her baby early. She was at the Dr. the other day and he is pretty close to putting her on complete bed rest. She may even be admitted to the hospital. How scary! I guess her cervix is thinning which means she will more than likely have this baby early early early. Caroline is pretty scared about the whole thing. Hopefully everything works out.

Well, now it's time for me to get into the kitchen and put dinner together so we can eat before our appointment tonight.

Until later! :)

[NicksBride]

Glad to hear your dad is getting better although that does stink about his shoulder popping! That is never a good sound.
I love your toasting glasses, they aer SOO pretty and will look nice at your head table. What a surprise with a wedding gift as well, there will be more where those come from, but a nice little surprise nonetheless. :)

Sorry about your fight, NIck and I fight about that all the time. I always say I am fat and he awlays says "Well do something about it" haha. At first we had a big fight about it, but then we talked about it. I know that I am pretty and have some weight on me, but I feel good and that is all that matters. Walking is a great way for the two of you to spend time together and get some excersise. But do not let it get you down. I am sorry about your right. But as been said "We are women hear us roar" We know what we need to do and we always get it done one way or another and we do need our men to tell us what to do. :)

[SaralovesMike]

Glad to hear your dad is getting better although that does stink about his shoulder popping! That is never a good sound.
His shoulder is doing better, thankfully!! I know that was the last thing he wanted to have happen after going thru surgery!

I love your toasting glasses, they aer SOO pretty and will look nice at your head table. What a surprise with a wedding gift as well, there will be more where those come from, but a nice little surprise nonetheless. :)
Thanks!! I can't wait to use them!!
It was a total suprise with the gift. I think Mike was more excited than I was. They were the knives he picked out. We're using some of them tonight to cook dinner. Knives that actually cut... what a concept! LOL


Sorry about your fight, NIck and I fight about that all the time. I always say I am fat and he awlays says "Well do something about it" haha. At first we had a big fight about it, but then we talked about it. I know that I am pretty and have some weight on me, but I feel good and that is all that matters. Walking is a great way for the two of you to spend time together and get some excersise. But do not let it get you down. I am sorry about your right. But as been said "We are women hear us roar" We know what we need to do and we always get it done one way or another and we do need our men to tell us what to do. :)
He's been really sweet the last day or so. He told me that he is going to support me with what I want to do and try not to be so pushy. He asked me if I wanted him to back off and I gave him a typically female answer: yes and no. Walking is good for us, no fighting. LOL

[Jacklynn]

How exciting about the glasses :) The programs are an exciting thing too! I have been slowly working on ours.

I can tell you are really excited about the shower, mine is in two weeks and I can hardly wait :)

[SaralovesMike]

I am pretty excited about the shower, we've been talking about doing it for months and now it's finally getting closer. Maybe it's because we have been planning for so long now that things are finally starting to come together and we're finally only 3 months away.

[NicksBride]

I just noticed you have EXCATLY three more months!! They are going to go by so fast!!!! :)

[SaralovesMike]

I know I can't believe it myself.

Mike woke me up this morning to say good bye and he even said, "3 months from today!!!"
Sometimes I think he is just as excited as I am. :)

[NicksBride]

aww that is really sweet when they are just as excited. I love seeing the ticker move... It is a great idea for brides who are counting down the days.:cool:

[SaralovesMike]

aww that is really sweet when they are just as excited. I love seeing the ticker move... It is a great idea for brides who are counting down the days.:cool:
Yea, it is exciting. I'm glad that he is so involved and wants to be involved in every aspect of the planning.

[SaralovesMike]

The shower invites went out last week and as of right now we have 5 people that have RSVP'd. We also have a couple things marked "fulfilled" on our registries. Mike keeps telling me that I am ruining the suprise by peeking. My mom was like "no, it's FUN!!" Oh well, I'm gonna try and stay away from there from now until the shower. Yea, lets see how long that lasts. LOL

This afternoon I have an appointment at my mom's salon. One of the girls she works with volunteered to help us with my hair for the wedding. My hair isn't really short but it certainly isn't long either. But she said we would probably be able to do something cute with it, including putting it up. That I was suprised to hear. Now I just have to try and remember to bring my camera.

I got most of our invitations addressed over the weekend. Then I came to the realization that we ordered way too many!! Not really thinking that we have 200 bodies on the guest list which DOESN'T mean 200 invites. I have to go thru our list and make sure but I think I only ended up with about 75-80 actual invitations. Can you say Duh?? Oh well, what can you do about it now??

[SaralovesMike]

Last February we went to meet with a realtor and a lender about the possibility of buying a house. We were thinking about doing it last July when the lease on our apartment ran out. Well, my credit pretty much stinks. Mike on the other hand has good credit just alot of credit. Because of that safely we could apply for a mortgage in Mike's name. That does nothing for me but gives us a better chance at better interest. With me, we would pay higher interest etc etc. Then he was only approved for about $100,000. Can't get much of a home here unless you want to live in the ghetto of Detroit. So, with that great news we decided to wait. I should also say that we would not have been able to put down much of a down payment if any because all that we were saving was going towards the wedding.
We thought it best to wait, pay off some debt and start saving again. Our plan was to live here for a minimum of 2 years and start to look for a house in 2008. We plan on starting a family right away, hoping to get pregnant as soon as June. Ideally we don't want to have babies in an apartment but realistically for another year it won't be that big a deal.

Yesterday Mike called me at work to tell me that his buddy Nick called him to tell him of a house. Nick's grandma passed away late last fall and they are getting ready to sell. Nick thought Mike and I would want to see it. Needless to say I was totally suprised when Mike said yes. So we're going to look at it on Saturday. Part of me thinks that Mike is just doing this to be nice, looking at the house I mean. Just because he said that this place would have to blow us away for us to go ahead and make an offer. We'll see.

I've got the latest copy of my credit report in front of me and plan on getting more of that taken care of. I was excited to see that my credit score went up almost 200 points since last year. That's awesome to see. I only have a couple more things to get paid off, less than $1500! I'll be so glad when its gone for good. I wish I would have listened to my dad years ago when he told me to stay away from credit cards! What did I know?

[SaralovesMike]

Another update, everything done is in pink. It's weird to see all this done and filling up compared to the first time I posted this.

6 To 12 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Establish type of wedding (formal or information) and choose a date: beach wedding, semi-formal, June 16, 2007
* Select Wedding Gown: David's Bridal, will post pics as soon as I can!
* Discuss gown colors and styles
* Choose attendant's dresses
* Visit the clergy and review church/synagogue requirements: Don Magee
* Compile size of the guest list: 170 is the max the place can hold, our list has close to 200, yikes!
* Determine your budget and discuss expenses: a lot more than either of us EVER imagined!
* Find a reception location and make reservations early: St Clair Inn, St Clair MI. Both wedding and reception will be held here.
* Select a wedding consultant: don't need it, so I guess that would be ME!

4 To 6 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Choose your attendants
* Select men's formalwear
* Choose a color theme: periwinkle and silver
* Buy wedding rings
* Book your caterer: comes with venue, haven't picked out menu yet
* Book your photographer: Mannino Photography, Royal Oak, MI
* Book your videographer: Mike's uncle Bill
* Book your dj or band: "DJ Shine" aka Donald Schuster
* Have physical examinations
* Decide your honeymoon plans: Gatlinburg, TN for 2 days, Charleston SC for the remainder.
(Booked rental vehicle for HM)
* Plan ceremony and reception music (working on ceremony music for bagpipes now!)
* Compile names and addresses for guest list: also sent out Save The Dates

2 To 4 MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Plan wedding decorations
* Select a florist: Susan Wolan, The Bride's Bouquet
* Order invitations and party favors (working on the favors now!)
* Shop for bridal party tuxedos
* Finalize arrangement for the church and ceremony
* Make transportation arrangements
* Plan honeymoon; visit travel agencies, make reservations
* All deposits should be made and contracts signed
* Put together ideas for bridal registry


THREE MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Order the wedding cake
* Choose gifts for attendants, parents, helpers
* Buy cake knife, toasting glasses, guest book & garter

TWO MONTHS BEFORE WEDDING
* Make plans & reservations for wedding rehearsal & dinner
* Reserve rooms for out-of-town guests
* Address invitations/announcements
Invitations should be sent 4-6 weeks prior to wedding; announcements after wedding (sending out invitations by April 5)

ONE MONTH BEFORE WEDDING
* Obtain marriage license
* Confirm details of every aspect of your wedding
* Finalize honeymoon reservations
* Contact all contracted services to confirm arrangements
* Have final fittings for you and your attendant's dresses
* Ask a friend or relative to take charge of guest book at reception
* Pick up wedding rings
* Purchas gift for fiance (not mandatory!)

TWO WEEKS BEFORE WEDDING
* Review reception seating and order place cards
* Prepare wedding announcement to send to newspapers
* Contact guests who have not responded

ONE WEEK BEFORE WEDDING
* Pick up your gown, attendants' dresses & accessories
* Confirm details with all participants and inform them of any changes
* Give final guest count to reception facility or caterer
* Pack for honeymoon
* Make sure you have all wedding attire, rings & marriage license
* Have rehearsal and dinner

WEDDING DAY
* Begin dressing two hours before ceremony is to begin
* Have hair & make-up done
* Take marriage license and rings to ceremony site
* Relax
* Have physical examinations
* Decide your honeymoon plans
* Plan ceremony and reception music
* Compile names and addresses for guest list

[NicksBride]

Yea sara on the wedding shower! That is awesome. It is more fun to peak anyway, we all do it! I bet it will be great fun!!

Can't wait to see your hair as well, I bet you are going to look gorgeous!

It sounds like us with a house buying. My credit was HORRIBLE and I got into bad credit problems as well. Should have listened. But Nick got a great credit rating and we got the house. It will work out, and there are many houses out for there for differnet prices, so just stay optimistic and see what the house is like. You never know! Good luck.

[NicksBride]

looks like you have SO much done! WTG!!!

[SaralovesMike]

It sounds like us with a house buying. My credit was HORRIBLE and I got into bad credit problems as well. Should have listened. But Nick got a great credit rating and we got the house. It will work out, and there are many houses out for there for differnet prices, so just stay optimistic and see what the house is like. You never know! Good luck.

It's always good to hear that others are in the same boat. Especially when they reach the goal that we are trying to reach- home ownership!
I would love to have a house now, I hate living in an apartment. Who knows what will happen. Keeping positive!

[NicksBride]

That all you can do. It took Nick and I a year of looking, getting approved and then finding a house to be where we are right now. So just keep your eyes open and ALWAYS look in the house section of Newspapers, you never know when you are going to find a gem.
Don't worry about credit either, while it is a learning lesson it does get better. Mine was just horrible and I couldn't get the house loan as NIck did. BUt now that i am paying them off and getting credit again, it has Jumped so muich that when we went to get our marriage loan, my credit was now higher then Nicks. :)

[SaralovesMike]

That's definitely good to hear. I know we'll get there with some perserverance as well as luck.

[SaralovesMike]

I just got back from the salon and the first attempt at doing my hair for the wedding. I was pretty sure I would not be able to put my hair up but this is the result:

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1218.jpg

The back:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1221.jpg

The side:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1219.jpg

I am pretty excited that it came out pretty much as I wanted it to. The girl at mom's salon was soooo helpful! Now we have a little less than 3 months to practice.

We were also worried about my veil and what to do with it. It's a catheral veil. I think the way she put it in my hair will work perfectly.
Now I just have to figure out the makeup...

[Panthers Bride]

I like the hair!

[SaralovesMike]

I like the hair!

Thank you! :)

[NicksBride]

The hair is gorgeous!!! I love it. What a pretty crown and veil. I just love it!!! Make you feel like a bride?

[SaralovesMike]

The hair is gorgeous!!! I love it. What a pretty crown and veil. I just love it!!! Make you feel like a bride? Thanks!!
Yea you know what? It did make me feel like a bride. It was too much fun!

[NicksBride]

haha that is the best! I have yet to feel like a bride.. Well I kinda did last night.. Check out journal. hahaha

[Callys_bride]

I just got back from the salon and the first attempt at doing my hair for the wedding. I was pretty sure I would not be able to put my hair up but this is the result:

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1218.jpg

The back:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1221.jpg

The side:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1219.jpg

I am pretty excited that it came out pretty much as I wanted it to. The girl at mom's salon was soooo helpful! Now we have a little less than 3 months to practice.

We were also worried about my veil and what to do with it. It's a catheral veil. I think the way she put it in my hair will work perfectly.
Now I just have to figure out the makeup...

your hair looks awesome!! Very pretty!!

[Jacklynn]

your hair style looks great! So you are going to try to do what they did yourself? or am I just confused?

[SaralovesMike]

haha that is the best! I have yet to feel like a bride.. Well I kinda did last night.. Check out journal. hahaha

You'll get there.... I'm off to check out your journal now.

[SaralovesMike]

your hair looks awesome!! Very pretty!!
Thank you!! :)

[SaralovesMike]

your hair style looks great! So you are going to try to do what they did yourself? or am I just confused?

Thanks!
It was a practice for my mom, who is a stylist. She says she is really bad at up-do's and wanted some extra help. Yesterday Lisa (the other stylist) did my hair as my mom watched. We or she is going to practice a couple more times with and without Lisa so mom can do it the day of the wedding.
I know it was a bit confusing- sorry.

[NicksBride]

aww that is really special that your mom is going to do your do. :) It is really very pretty.

[SaralovesMike]

aww that is really special that your mom is going to do your do. :) It is really very pretty.

Thanks!
I am really happy she is going to do my hair for the wedding. The only thing is I don't want her to get stressed out doing it. She did my cousins wedding 10+ years ago as a favor to my cousin. She ended up doing all the BP and a few others, she barely had time to get ready herself. We're not letting this happen since she is only doing me and my sis. Knowing her though she may do more just to be nice and be in the same boat.

[Goin2thechapel]

Your hair came out awesome!

It looks like you have a ton of hair too. Like it's very thick!

[SaralovesMike]

Your hair came out awesome!

It looks like you have a ton of hair too. Like it's very thick!

Thanks!
I do have really thick hair. It's short though, and that style made me look like I had a lot more! LOL

[NicksBride]

Aw your poor mother. She sounds like a wonderful lady.

[SaralovesMike]

Aw your poor mother. She sounds like a wonderful lady.

Yea, she had a hard time saying no. She was so happy that my cousin (her god daughter) had asked her to do her hair. Then the more people that asked she kept saying yes until she almost didn't have time to get ready herself. I'm not sure if she or anyone else said anything like "that's it"
She still talks about it- which is also why we don't want her to do everyone's hair (ha ha)
We just want her to try to relax and just enjoy the day.

She is wonderful, thanks! :)

[SaralovesMike]

The other day when I got my hair done my mom started talking about my dad. I guess he is still unable to bend his knee past 72 degrees. It's almost stuck, which now they are thinking it's scar tissue and they are threatening to take him back to the hospital. What they will do there is put him under anesthesia and bend it for him. That totally freaks him out, especially after him having such a hard time with the pain meds not working and then having too much and getting sick.
There's a lady that Mike works with that is about 20 years older than dad and had both knees done. She's been back to work and is already bending her knees to 90 degrees. We don't want to tell dad that since it will only frustrate him.

Anyway, mom was saying that dad is afraid that he may not be able to walk me down the aisle. I guess it really depends on where I come out for the ceremony and how far he has to walk. Also since it is outside and the grassy area is somewhat on an incline he's worried about that too. Mom asked me if I would mind if perhaps my uncle (who is also my god father) could walk me part of the way and then my dad the rest. I don't think it's a bad idea at all!
I just wish my dad would say something to me about it. Mom said the other day, "don't tell dad I said anything." I hate that he feels bad about it and is worried. Chances are he will be fine, I mean we do have almost 3 more months. I guess it all depends on him.
Mom said he really needs to work on bending more and push himself harder. She even suggested that he should try and walk outside simply because it's getting warmer. He tried to sit in the car and see if he could move his leg enough to drive and he couldn't do it. How frustrating! I guess since the recovery for knee replacement is so long and painful that's why if people have to have both knees done at the same time. They would more than likely not go back to do the 2nd one. Thankfully dad only had to have one.

Alright, I guess I should stop here before this wall of text gets bigger. That and I have to get back to work. 4 more hours to go!

[NicksBride]

oh dear, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I will hope that he is able to walk you down the aisle, but that is really wonderful you would consider your uncle walking you down. Just help your dad out as much as you can and be there for him as it sounds like you are. Its not easy, but hopefully like you said with it getting warmer it will be OK.

[SaralovesMike]

oh dear, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I will hope that he is able to walk you down the aisle, but that is really wonderful you would consider your uncle walking you down. Just help your dad out as much as you can and be there for him as it sounds like you are. Its not easy, but hopefully like you said with it getting warmer it will be OK.

Thanks!
This past weekend he was out and about A LOT. They went out to dinner both Friday and Saturday night. Then they met Mike and I for breakfast on Sunday morning. That's how I know he's on the mend, they LOVE to go out to dinner.
Next step is getting that darn knee to bend more so he can start driving again.

[SaralovesMike]

Again!

Back in February I met up with Mya (FG) and her grandma (Mike's brother's fiance) to pick out Mya's dress for the wedding. We placed the order and true to their history they never called to tell me her dress was in. I was at another DB with my mom on Sunday looking at MOB dresses for her. I just happened to ask them if they could tell if the FG dress was in yet. Sure enough! They said it came in on Feb 24 and they called me on Feb 26. So why didn't I get a phone call??
At least it's there. I can't complain about that. Mary Jo (Mya's g'ma) is going to pick up the dress next weekend. I'll be so glad when we don't have to use them any more.

My mom did get her dress. I will try to post of picture later. It's exactly what she was looking for with the exception of it being sleeveless. She's worried she'll be cold. She's always cold! It had a little shawl with it but I'm pretty sure she's not even going to need it and she'll be fine.

Well we're getting a thunderstorm right now so I better get off this computer. It's getting pretty intense out there now. Darn, that means that the wonderful almost 80 degree weather we've had the last couple days will be gone by morning and it's back to 40 degrees. I can't complain though, it could be snowing right??

[Goin2thechapel]

Davids Bridal was a pain for me too, but my consultant was amazing. one week before my wedding my dog jumped up and ripped my veil to shreds. I called her and explained the entire story and she got me another one free of charge.

Glad everything is there and ready to wear!!

[NicksBride]

ugh,I am sorry to hear about Davids Bridal causing another bride stress. Glad your mom saw something she liked, I am sure she will look lovely.
It sounds like your parents are getting out there which is nice. :) Can't wait to see pictures.

[Jacklynn]

First off, I'm sorry to hear about your dad. I hope that he is out of such pain soon! I used to work with a lady who had one knee done, and was suppose to get the other done, but never got the other one done because it caused her so much pain that she said it wasn't worth it.

Also, I live in Northern IL, and it for sure cooled down a TON last night, like it seemed like in a matter of ten mins, it sure ticked me off :)

[SaralovesMike]

Davids Bridal was a pain for me too, but my consultant was amazing. one week before my wedding my dog jumped up and ripped my veil to shreds. I called her and explained the entire story and she got me another one free of charge.



As much as I hate to hear that someone else is/was just as frustrated with DB as I am it kind of makes me feel better to know I'm not the only one ya know?

I had an awesome consultant there when I got my dress. When I called to make an appointment for the BMs I found out she was gone. What a bummer. Not one person there has even come close.
I remember the veil ripping, I'm so glad that worked out.

16 days til the closing, it's getting so close. I bet you guys are really getting excited now huh?

[SaralovesMike]

It sounds like your parents are getting out there which is nice. :) Can't wait to see pictures.

Yea, its a huge relief for them, especially mom. She thinks my dad isn't working nearly as hard as he should be. I think I'd go nuts being house-bound for so long. I was glad to see them/him out and about.

[SaralovesMike]

First off, I'm sorry to hear about your dad. I hope that he is out of such pain soon! I used to work with a lady who had one knee done, and was suppose to get the other done, but never got the other one done because it caused her so much pain that she said it wasn't worth it.

Also, I live in Northern IL, and it for sure cooled down a TON last night, like it seemed like in a matter of ten mins, it sure ticked me off :)

That's what they say. It is so painful that if you need them both done and don't have them done at the same time you'll never do the other.
I saw him in that intense pain right after surgery and then it was a good 2 weeks before he wasn't in such pain and sick from all the meds.

It was pretty depressing with the weather change here too. It's barely 50 today and raining. What a bummer. The good news is it isn't supposed to drop below 50 for the next week.

[NicksBride]

Yea, it is GORGEOUS here today. But for the next week we are getting rain and 40's BOOOO!

[SaralovesMike]

Yea, it is GORGEOUS here today. But for the next week we are getting rain and 40's BOOOO!

Oh no!!!! Sounds like someone somewhere needs to send you warmer weather for your wedding.

Mike's aunt sent us the sweetest email last year after our engagement. We're having an outdoor ceremony so she said in order to keep the rain away that we had to make sure that on our wedding day (if it's cloudy) to blow the clouds away and it works. I can't wait to meet his (as she put it) "Crazy Aunt Shirley"
Maybe we need to figure something out on how to bring in some warmer weather for your day huh?

[NicksBride]

haha that is sooo cute. I can do a warm weather dance. hehehe

[Jacklynn]

Oh oh! and I will blow all of the clouds away :) so with the warm weather dance and my (and your aunts) blowing the clounds away it will be perfect out!

[NicksBride]

haha you ladies are so funny!!! hahaha

[SaralovesMike]

The day will sure to be perfect with all that dancing and blowing! :)

[NicksBride]

haha I just checked the 10 day forcast again, on our day there is a FULLLL sun. No more snow showers. I am guessing it will change everyday. but HEY, it worked for right now. :)

[SaralovesMike]

I guess "Crazy Aunt Shirley" knows what she's talking about huh??

That's great- I hope it stays that way and you get your perfect wedding day.

[NicksBride]

haha thanks. I hijacked your post. I am sorry. :)

[SaralovesMike]

You don't have to apologize, just don't do it again LOL :bbmrgreen:

[NicksBride]

hehe OK! I will try not to. :)

[SaralovesMike]

We're finishing up the invitations and they should go out sometime this week. I'm just waiting now for the invites we made for the rehearsal luncheon. We're inviting 50 (OMG!) people to this thing. Actually without the wedding party and their significant others and us and parents it only comes out to be about 30 people.

Originally Mike's brother Jim was going to cook for the luncheon. Then once he realized for how many he decided to have it catered. He is paying for that, for the tent, the tables and chairs. He's calling it our wedding gift. That's way too much but he refuses to listen. What can you do. Because he is having this catered we have to give them a head count 3 weeks prior so we are putting a small invite in with the wedding invites. Kinkos. It cost us $80 to have a little card made. I was perfectly happy with just making something on the computer and just making copies. Oh well. Mike's idea and he didn't seem to care about the cost.

Mike's sister is still having a rough time. She's just into her 7th month of being pregnant. She is pretty much on bedrest now. Her doctor is "trying to keep her pregnant" at this point. How scary. Her cervix is thinning which means she could have this baby at any time. JW (her son) got a sinus infection a couple weeks ago and now Caroline has pneumonia. She even broke a rib in a coughing fit the other night. Poor thing! She's having a rough pregnancy and now she is sick to boot. She needs some good luck!

[SaralovesMike]

My shower is a week from Saturday. Out of the 50 people we invited we have a guest list of 35 yesses. Absolutely crazy. There are a few people that were on the invite list we haven't heard from yet and I'm kind of bummed. Then again you never know if they will still show up. I think they added a few more "just in case."

We also mailed out the wedding invites. I'm working on the Rehearsal luncheon invites now (had to take a break!) and hope to get those out tomorrow. We got our first responses today, pretty exciting. Mike was teasing me telling me he bet I'll run for the mailbox every day. He's probably right!

Easter was fun. We had the family here for breakfast- 11 people in our little apartment. We pulled it off though. Mom was happy she didn't have to cook. Now we started a trend and it seems like they want to pass the holidays down to the "younger generation" which means my cousin and his wife get the next holiday.

Nothing much else is going on. Mike's sick again. Allergies he found out when he went to the doctor today. Thankfully (in a way) because that means he's not contagious! He's just feeling crappy and coughing up a storm. Poor guy!

9 weeks to go until the wedding. After 1 year and a 1/2 of planning we're finally down to single digit weeks to go. It's coming so fast, just when I think it will never get here we're that much closer. Unbelieveable!

[NicksBride]

That is AWESOME! I am soo excited for you, I can see your excitment in the post. It is going to go by so fast and look you already have 12 RSVP's YEA!! :)

[Jacklynn]

I still get excited when I get RSVPs back. Not as excited as before though, because I was going to do predetermined seating, but people aren't RSVPing (like those who I KNOW are coming and oh so and so told me they were coming) stuff like that. 9 weeks huh??? Exciting I haven't really been going with weeks for my countdown, more the days. Like today I have 31 days left. ummmm 4 1/2 weeks.

I hope the next 9 weeks go amazing, as I am sure they will.

oh btw, how is mikes sister doing?

[SaralovesMike]

That is AWESOME! I am soo excited for you, I can see your excitment in the post. It is going to go by so fast and look you already have 12 RSVP's YEA!! :)

I know it, I can't believe it. It's already going fast. 12 RSVPs- can't wait to see the mail today. ha ha ha

[SaralovesMike]

I still get excited when I get RSVPs back. Not as excited as before though, because I was going to do predetermined seating, but people aren't RSVPing (like those who I KNOW are coming and oh so and so told me they were coming) stuff like that. 9 weeks huh??? Exciting I haven't really been going with weeks for my countdown, more the days. Like today I have 31 days left. ummmm 4 1/2 weeks.

I hope the next 9 weeks go amazing, as I am sure they will.

oh btw, how is mikes sister doing?

We just started saying "... weeks until the wedding" since days sounds so far away. 66 days! Maybe we'll change to days soon though.
4 1/2 weeks, you're almost there!!!! :)

Predetermined seating, ugh! I am not looking forward to that mess. We can fit 100 people in the main room of our reception and then have to put the remaining 50 in an adjoining room by the pool. How do you figure that out?? That's one part I'm not looking forward to.

Mike's sister is ok. They had to put their dog down on Saturday. He was 15 and had MS. Poor guy! It was a rough day. She's feeling better (from her pneumonia) and still on bed rest.
She did have a scare the other day though. Her dr called and told her there was something wrong with her blood work they did. Her levels (whatever that means) were not right and they were worried it was the same situation as when she first got pregnant. She worried about it all weekend and come to find out they made a mistake. Her levels are fine, and it was someone else's blood work. Can you imagine, poor girl already thinks she's living under a black cloud with everything going on! She's ok, still patiently waiting and hoping to give birth next month so she can be at the wedding. Thanks for asking! :)

[NicksBride]

awww sounds like Mikes sister is going through a really rough time, poor girl it is never easy seeing a dog die. :(

Say days, it feels better. hahaha

[SaralovesMike]

Yea, poor girl. They had Stubby for about 15 years, it wasn't an easy decision to let him go but at the same time it was for the best. It was sad. We had JW make her a boquet of flowers (silk roses) at the mall for his mom to cheer her up.

66 days- got it! :)

But doesn't 66 days seem longer than 9 weeks??? lol

[Goin2thechapel]

BUT.... 2 months sounds sooo soon!!! :)

[SaralovesMike]

BUT.... 2 months sounds sooo soon!!! :)

LOL! 2 months, 9 weeks, 66 days.... it will all be here really fast however you look at it.

Hey, you're closing on the house in a couple days... are you totally excited or what???

[SaralovesMike]

We got 3 more RSVPs today. My great aunt is coming and some friends of Mike's. We're up to 15. Actually more if you count our parents and wedding party, then it's about 30. I think my dad is starting to get nervous about the yesses. He wanted to invite some more friends of his so more invites went out than originally expected. He said the other day, "We need some no's! This is getting scary."
But really, how many people get every single person they invite to show up at their wedding??

We got another gift today for the shower. This time from my aunt and uncle in Arizona. We got some kitchen towels (which we need!) a couple dish cloths, a couple of pot holders, an ice cream scoop and a wire whisk. We also got a toaster the other day from Mike's aunt and uncle in Tennessee. The funniest thing so far had to be the 3 towels from a cousin of Mike's (also in TN). They sent us 1 bath towel, 1 hand towel, and 1 wash cloth. Good thing we have more towels huh, one of us would be out of luck!
We also got a camcorder from my grandma which is going to be our wedding gift also. It's so tiny! We can't use it yet because we haven't bought a memory card for it. Can you believe they didn't even include one with the camera?? Weird. Anyway, I'm hoping to get one by next weekend in time for the shower.

[NicksBride]

ohhh I got really nervous as well about the yes's becuase it meant $$$$ but again it is really touching about them wanting to come isn't it?

Oh gifts! YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Camcorder sounds awesome. No memory card? ****.

[SaralovesMike]

ohhh I got really nervous as well about the yes's becuase it meant $$$$ but again it is really touching about them wanting to come isn't it?

I'm happy that these people want to come, don't get me wrong. We just had some debate over who to invite.
First, a couple of my dad's friends went ahead and booked rooms as soon as they found out where we were having the wedding. They weren't even invited at this point.
Then my dad has a really large extended family-all of which he insisted we invite. He figured that we were invited to all of their events over the years it was time for some "pay back." I had to invited cousins that haven't seen in almost 20 years and a few that I don't even like. BUT mom and dad gave us a lot of money for this so what can you do.
Our guest list was over 200 people. Our place can only hold 154. I was getting nervous because I didn't want to cut my friends and people I wanted there for a bunch of people I don't know or don't care if they are there or not. Mike and I sat down with them to hash out the guest list and we finally agreed on some cuts and we figured that we could invite a good majority of people and still come in way under 154.
Now he's just nervous that we did invite too many and where would we put them? I can't wait to tell him when one of those people he said "oh they won't come" rsvp's YES.

And about the camcorder? Yea, I thought that was bizarre they didn't include one with the camera. Batteries, yes. Memory card, no. I mean even my digital camera came with a card, a cheap one but one all the same. Gram didn't know that one didn't come with, it's not her fault. My dad ordered it for us in her name and even he thought they would include something. Oh well, what can you do? We'll get one eventually. I'm just excited to have one. My family never had one when I was a kid. Now Mike and I can be that annoying family that records every family gathering! LOL

[Goin2thechapel]

LOL! 2 months, 9 weeks, 66 days.... it will all be here really fast however you look at it.

Hey, you're closing on the house in a couple days... are you totally excited or what???
yup!

No more living with the inlaws :)

[SaralovesMike]

yup!

No more living with the inlaws :)

Even better! :)
I'm sure that's a challenge, my mom did that for the first 5 years of their marriage. Then again 10 years later-long story.

Congratulations again girl!

[NicksBride]

oh geez, it is really frusturating when people assume they are invited adn great uncle Mildred is invited and so on. It is never easy espically with a large family. But it sounds like you are handling it will and all will work out on the end. Just think MORE PRESENTS. hahaha Just kidding. :)

Oh geez,I hated those famiyl members with Camcorders getting in your face. But man it will be fun being on the other side being that annoying family member. hehe have fun with it! Take some great videos. Is anyone videotaping your wedding?

[SaralovesMike]

LOL. My dad said the same thing about more presents. He told us (jokingly of course) that we have totally lost the meaning behind our wedding. "It's not about you and Mike and your marriage, it's about the gifts and your families."
I think my mom elbowed him after that.

Mike's Uncle Bill is video taping the wedding. Funny you mention that. Uncle Bill actually sent me a copy of Mike's sister's wedding and I got it yesterday. His aunt put in a note that said something like "so you can see the rest of our family, hopefully it doesn't scare you." AND we got to see Uncle Bill's skills with the camera. There were a couple things he filmed that were strange. They got married in an old church and Bill aimed the camera at the historic sign for about 5 minutes. We laughed saying he would do that to us if a freighter goes by during the ceremony. He will stop taping us and tape the freighter.

The best part though, this was filmed 12 years ago. I got to see a young, bean pole Mike and his um dancing skills. Too freaking funny!! Also his older brother Jim. He had some 80's moves too! Too funny!!!!

[NicksBride]

ahhh hahahah that is too funny. what a great idea to video tape your wedding though by a family member. I am kinda bummed we didn't do that for our wedding. BUt we have about 800 pictures to look at. Maybe if I look real hard it will move. hahaha

Our photographer did that. he is my uncle and he took about 25 pictures of just one table over and over again. i am like geeez what is soo exciting about that. Oh well if your Uncle does that, then it will be a good laugh toi look back on. :)

[SaralovesMike]

I'm sure he will do that one way or another.
I think if any freighters go by during the ceremony that is where the cameras attention will be. Mike's dad even wants to arrange one of them to blow their horn as they go by. Can you imagine as soon as we're about to say our vows a big old freighter comes by and blows its horn???

[NicksBride]

hahaha that would be terrible!!! Just laugh and say hold on a minute. hehehe. Everyone I am sure will bear with you on that one. No one wants to hear that sucker while you guys are trying to be romantic. :)

[SaralovesMike]

I know it! It's really hit and miss though. We were up there last summer and in a period of an hour we saw 5-6 of those big guys then nothing the rest of the day. Maybe that will be the same for us, a lot before and a lot during the reception.

[NicksBride]

ohh I hope so! I am sure it will be gorgeous. Just don't worry about things you cannot change. You guys will be so into each other you won't even hear it. I remember the day, but I do not remember hearing our ceremony music or our first dance music. No worries, it will be gorgeous no matter what.

[SaralovesMike]

Yea, that's what I thought. I'm sure whatever happens we will be totally oblivious to everything but each other. tee hee!:bbmrgreen:

[NicksBride]

Its so true. The night after Nick was like, was there music even playing all i saw was you. SOOO cute. I am sure you guys are the same way I can tell. :)

[SaralovesMike]

Awww! That's so sweet of him to say that!

You're absolutely right, we are. Sick isn't it. LOL

[NicksBride]

HAHA Sick well no.. Crazy? possibly. hehehe

[SaralovesMike]

HAHA Sick well no.. Crazy? possibly. hehehe

Crazy, sometimes. Ok, maybe all the time... LOL!

[SaralovesMike]

I can't believe our wedding is in 2 months. Sometimes it seems like it will never get here then you think, wow, 2 months!

My shower is this weekend, 35 people. Funny thing is only 3 of my friends are going to be there. The rest, my family, Mike's family and a couple of my parents friends. Should be interesting. I can't wait.
My mom is so excited. She keeps telling me that she needs more prizes. She wants everyone to go home with something. She went to the beauty supply and told the lady she was planning my bridal shower and she got all kinds of either free stuff or stuff really cheap. She's giving out a lot of beauty products. I'm sure everyone will love that!

I also found out yesterday that my mom and sister are planning a sort of bachelorette party for me. Mike is getting together with some friends and going golfing for the weekend, Mother's Day weekend to be exact. So my mom calls me and asks what I thought about going away the same weekend the guys are going and do our own party. She and my aunt are planning it and my grandma is funding it. They want to go to the casino, go some place nice for dinner and maybe catch a show downtown (Detroit). Then they thought we could stay in a hotel and just have a "girls weekend."
So far it is my mom, sister, aunt, grandma, my cousin's wife, me, and possibly Mike's sister (if she has that baby!), Mike's mom (but she won't go unless Caroline goes- long story) and Mike's brother's girlfriend and possibly one of her daughters if not both. It should be a lot of fun!

[SaralovesMike]

In continuation of the last post. I didn't want to post a wall ya know??

We got a few more gifts in the mail over the weekend. An ice cream maker from Mike's cousins and a bakeware set (corningware) from my aunt and uncle in Arizona. We also got a continuation gift from my other aunt and uncle in AZ. For whatever reason they sent it in 2 shipments. We got some corn holders and a pastry brush. It will be interesting to see what else makes it's way to our front door this week with the shower on Saturday.

What else? We got some more RSVPs. We're up to 31 I think. Only a couple no's and they were from people we knew wouldn't come, Mike's cousins in Tennessee.

Speaking of the Tennessee cousins... I'm pretty sure there is about to be some drama here soon. Mike's dad offered to pay 2/3 of the room for one of the cousins, in order to get them up here. I wonder what the fall out will be when the rest of them find out.
Mike's dad was also a little upset over the gifts that they are sending. The ice cream maker for example. 9 people went in on that gift. There was something else that another group went in on. He thought that was pretty bad for them to have that many people go in on one thing. Then he didn't even want to go into the family that sent us the one bath towel, one hand towel and one wash cloth.
All I say is, it's not about the gifts.
My dad and Mike's dad just laugh when I say that. They said that I will learn that lesson someday when we have a family and have to send graduation and wedding gifts all the time. I guess they figure this is their pay back time huh?

Oh well, what can you say but whatever???? LOL

[NicksBride]

ohh I am getting so excited for you! Your excitment is coming through the computer. Have a blast at your shower, enjoy EVERY minute of it. It will be amazing and 35 people, quite the turn out huh?
Oh an ice cream maker,we got one and LOVE LOVE LOVE it. Now I have even more happy fat to loose this summer. :) But enjoy all your goodies.
Aren't weddings just so much fun? Drama drama drama! But at least you get some really fun things through it all. Bacherlorette party baby!!!! hahaha:bbmrgreen:

[SaralovesMike]

I know I can't believe it, 35 people! There are a couple friends I haven't seen in a while that were invited. Hopefully they will be one of those people that don't RSVP and just show up. If not, hopefully they will come to the wedding.

We tried out the ice cream maker over the weekend. It turned out pretty good. Mike wants to make chocolate mint chip ice cream. His brother always peppermint ice cream for Thanksgiving and Mike's birthday. Now he has us to watch out for. With a little experimentation we could give him a run for his money! :)

At least the drama is on Mike's family. I'm just afraid that if one gets wind of their rooms getting paid for then the rest will complain and Mike's dad will end up paying for all of them. Not that he doesn't have the money, he just shouldn't have to!

The bachelorette party will be a blast, I hope things pan out.

[NicksBride]

ehh, well I hope everyone just minds their business and does not say anything. But if they do remember, you can't sweat the small stuff, and if something happens, just say, I don't want to deal with it. Someone else can deal with the petty stuff. :)

[SaralovesMike]

That's exactly how I am looking at it now. If they say something they will and the money isn't coming out of our pockets. Whatever happens happens. I just don't think FILs should have to pay for them. But again, his decision!

My family isn't like that, if they can't afford it they aren't coming. I have a cousin that wants to come with his wife and 3 kids. They can't afford it but they think my uncle (his dad) should pay the bill. We went to Florida last year for a wedding and my uncle paid for him but only because he was BM in the wedding and HAD to be there.

[shawnsgirl]

Well, I hope your shower is wonderful! Take tons of pics for us to show us!

I can see a little bit on where he's coming from about the gifts. Usually, the people who don't do as much for others are the very first to complain!! Anyhow, you are right it doesn't matter and I hope the drama is kept at a minimum for you!

[Callys_bride]

take pics of the bacholorette party please :laugh: That should be a blast!! I cant wait for mines :bbmrgreen:

[SaralovesMike]

I can see a little bit on where he's coming from about the gifts. Usually, the people who don't do as much for others are the very first to complain!! Anyhow, you are right it doesn't matter and I hope the drama is kept at a minimum for you!

Yea, that's so true.

Pictures of the shower and pictures of the bachelorette party. Got it! Now if I can just remember the camera. LOL

[Callys_bride]

and film and batteries!!! :laugh:

[SaralovesMike]

and film and batteries!!! :laugh:

Yea, isn't that the truth. I also have to remember to bring my new camcorder too!

[NicksBride]

Yea Camcorder!!!!!!

[SaralovesMike]

As long as we get our memory card. That reminds me, I gotta call Mike and tell him! He can get a discount thru work so he said he will take care of that one.

[NicksBride]

ohh good. You will look back at those videos and really cherish them and laugh. So hopefully you can get a memory card to take videos. I wish now that we had taken a video of our wedding. Oh well, live and learn. :)

[SaralovesMike]

Mike ordered the memory card today! Hopefully (but somehow I doubt it) it will be here by Saturday. Bad thing is I'm coming down with a cold. NOT a good weekend for it. It's supposed to be warm and sunny. I also don't want to feel crappy for the shower. I've been drinking Airborne all day- yuck!! Maybe it will help, who knows.

4 more RSVP's today! We're also meeting with our minister in 45 minutes to discuss the ceremony. We're all done with our "premarital counseling." Thankfully! It wasn't so bad but I'm glad to be done with it.

[mariaandmanish]

Have a great time at the BS and the Bachelorette Party! Bachelorette parties are so much fun!!!

[Jacklynn]

Have fun at the shower! I just had my last one this last weekend, so much fun hehe :)

[NicksBride]

Oh dear, I hope you do not get sick. Keep taking that airborne, it sucks but it really does work, so keep going.
I hope you get your memory card soon! That will be fun to have and ENJOY your weekend! Take care sweetie!

[SaralovesMike]

Aw thanks!

Yes I will keep taking the Airborne. Actually I think this may just be allergies. Mike got some Allegra when he went to the doc last week. They misdiagnosed him- HE actually had a cold! Anyway, I took some of that before we went to our meeting with Don last night and within a little while the sneezing, watery eyes and nose issues were pretty much gone. I'm just gonna keep medicating myself between now and tomorrow and see what happens.

It's supposed to be in the 70's this weekend, whoo hoo! :)

[NicksBride]

oh I know it is supposed to be GORGEOUS! My office is taking me out to lunch today and we are eating OUTSIDE! :)

I hope it is just allergies, no one likes a sick bride. :)

[SaralovesMike]

Yea, no kidding!!

It's nice here today and yesterday actually. It's finally starting to feel like Spring!!
On Sunday we are going to go somewhere like a park and just be outside for a little while. Go away cold!!! LOL

[NicksBride]

aww have a wonderful weekend that sounds nice! Enjoy it!

[SaralovesMike]

We will, thanks!!

Have an even better time on your cruise!! :)

[NicksBride]

haha thanks.
I am getting nervous, but it should be nice. Look at your RSVP's just adding up. WAHOO!:cool:

[SaralovesMike]

haha thanks.
I am getting nervous, but it should be nice. Look at your RSVP's just adding up. WAHOO!:cool:

I know!! We got another 4 yesses yesterday! Woo hoo!:laugh:

[SaralovesMike]

Well today's my shower. I am pretty excited about it but at the same time a little nervous as I'm not crazy about being the center of attention. I figure it will be good practice for the wedding, haha.

Anyway, we have to leave here about 11:30 to pick up my Grandma. Hopefully she will be ready to go. She lives in not really a nursing home, more like assisted living. She does live in the section of this place where they need more attention. She had a stroke a few years back and has been just consistently going down hill. She's 83. There's a point to the story really. LOL.
Mike and I went to get her on Easter Sunday and she was pretty much ready to go except she needed to go to the bathroom. Long story short the nurse came in at the nick of time to help her in there but then left her there! It was a pretty strange experience. Kind of a weird feeling having to help her in the bathroom you know? But I did it.
So this is my fear again today that she won't be ready and we'll have the same thing happen again. My dad said to go get help if she needs to use the bathroom- that's what he and my uncle do. So we're going to leave a little early and hopefully not hit any snags.

My shower starts at 1, my mom and aunt are getting there about noon to set up. Mike is going to hang around for a little bit as the good groom he is. Basically he is going to wait until all his family members show up so he can introduce me to the ones I haven't met yet. Then he's out of there. He's so funny about it, he really doesn't want to be there at all. I guess most guys don't want to be. He's a good sport. Then when it's over he is coming back with one or both of his brothers to eat. The place my mom picked is charging us for 50 people whether or not 50 show up. Kind of a racket, pay for $50 but make enough food for 30. So what was the point of a headcount?? Well there is going to be a TON of food, and everyone is prepared to take home leftovers. It should be a fun day.

[mariaandmanish]

Have a great time! I hope that your Grandma is ready and doens't need any extra help!! Wishing you a wonderful BS too!!!

[SaralovesMike]

Thanks Maria! :)

Well it was a pretty good day. There were about 25 people there. It was pretty fun. I took my camera in order to take lots of pictures and guess what? I didn't take any! I know, bad right? Well, my mom and my sister took a bunch so hopefully I can get some from them within the next few days and get them posted.
The food was great, Italian yum! We had salad, bread, mostaccioli, chicken, mostaccioli with alfredo sauce, and veal parm. We were able to take stuff home for dinner later. Yay, no cooking tonight!
We got a lot of nice things and some cash. My sister took all the cards home with her, supposedly she is doing "something" with them. She promised to return them later. Now is the fun job of thank you cards! Once I get everything organized I will list everything we got.

Grandma was ready to go, thankfully. She seemed to have a good time. By the end of the afternoon she was pretty tired. Me, I'm still battling this cold or allergy thing. I didn't sleep much last night due to this darn cold AND the excitement of my shower. I think I am going to lay down for a bit. Mike went back to his mom and dad's to pick up our gifts. He and his brothers (Jim and Bill) came towards the end and loaded everything into Bill's SUV. We had grandma and the wheelchair in our car so they offered to help us out.

All in all it was a great day!

[KMS]

It sounds like you had a great time. Good food, good friends, and good gifts. What could be bad about that?? :bbmrgreen:

[SaralovesMike]

Absolutely nothing bad at all. LOL :)

It was a really good day. It went by way too fast thats for sure. I don't feel like I got to spend enough time with people. Mike's sister said that it's only the beginning and imagine how you're going to feel at the wedding. This was only 2 hours and a lot less people. Imagine 5 hours and 150! Wow.

Mike's sister was able to come to the shower. She stayed for the whole thing. That was nice. I know she was worried about not being able to participate. I guess she's really worried that she won't be able to come to the wedding. Hopefully that isn't the case and she'll be able to come. Wait and see I guess.

Back to work!!

[SaralovesMike]

I have to post these 2 pictures of Mya. On Saturday before the shower Kelly (Mya's mom) went to David's Bridal to pick up Mya's dress. The good news is everything fit and hopefully she won't grow too much in the next couple weeks. The bad news, they ordered her shoes. When we ordered the dress we decided to wait and order the shoes when it gets closer. Mya is 4, no doubt those little feet will grow!
Well suprise to them when they picked up the dress. There were the shoes! Argh! Kelly said the size they ordered were too small (they fit in February which is why we were waiting) and the next size was too big. I think Kelly ended up getting the bigger size. What a mess.
Kelly took these pictures of Mya. She said that she LOVES her dress and wanted to wear it at the shower.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/Picture017.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/Picture018.jpg

Mya did really well at the shower. Until she saw Mike that is. I guess when they first got there she clung to her mom and hid under the table when she saw Mike. What did he ever do to her I wonder?? LOL
After he left she warmed up. She even asked me if she could help me open presents. Which of course I let her. At least we know she's good with me! We'll see what happens on June 16th! :)

Oh and the little guy in the background running in the mirror in the first picture. That's Justin. Mya's cousin. He is very sad he isn't in the wedding. He wanted to know what he got to do at the wedding. His grandma told him he was "best boy." That made him happy. I think we can find something for him to do.

[SaralovesMike]

I have to post this picture too.

This is Mya again and Justin. Apparently these 2 have decided that THEY are getting married.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/Picture1.jpg

[SaralovesMike]

As promised, our gifts from the shower. I spoke with my mom yesterday and she just read off who bought what. My sister is making us a what she calls a "memory book" with things from the shower (pictures etc). That's why she took the cards home with her.

This is how it stacks out so far:

Corningware bake ware

Spice Rack

Wine glasses:
Snapware

2 sleeping bags

2 kitchen towels
3 dishcloths
2 pot holders
cornholders
whisk
pastry brush
ice cream scoop

Video camera
case

Stainless steel mixing bowl set

Wok set

Waffle maker
chocolate pancake/waffle mix
apple cinnamon mix

picture frames

2 crock pots

calphalon bake set
100 cookie cutters

toaster oven

sheets

ice bucket/tongs
cocktail shaker
corkscrew

salad bowls

stainless steel crock set w/ utensils

toaster

chip/dip plate
sugar/creamer

bath towels

ice cream maker

knife block set

We also got some cash and a couple of gift cards from Target.

Now it's time for the thank you cards!!

[Diamend]

Wow! Your wedding is very quickly approaching!!! How exciting!!

[SaralovesMike]

Wow! Your wedding is very quickly approaching!!! How exciting!!

I know it!! Sometimes when I think it is so far away it seems that much closer. A year and 1/2 of planning and now we're down to weeks. I'm so excited! :)

[Diamend]

I know it!! Sometimes when I think it is so far away it seems that much closer. A year and 1/2 of planning and now we're down to weeks. I'm so excited! :)

OO I know!! We've been engaged a year and 1/2 too, and now down to 2 months I feel rushed!! What have I been doing the last year!?

[SaralovesMike]

OO I know!! We've been engaged a year and 1/2 too, and now down to 2 months I feel rushed!! What have I been doing the last year!?

Just wait til it gets closer.
We got a lot done right away and have been almost sitting around waiting for stuff to do. Now there's stuff to get done and I can totally relate to the rushed feeling. Everything will work out just fine for both of us. Then we can sit back later and say, "why was I so crazy about things??" :)

[KMS]

Wow I just wanted to say that you got some great gifts! And so many of them too!

[NicksBride]

WOW!!!! first the pictures of Mya were SOO precious.
Second, what a great shower it sounds like you had and you cleaned up. haha sounds like a wonderful time and glad you got some wonderful things. :) Not to long now.

[SaralovesMike]

WOW!!!! first the pictures of Mya were SOO precious.
Second, what a great shower it sounds like you had and you cleaned up. haha sounds like a wonderful time and glad you got some wonderful things. :) Not to long now.

Thanks! She's a sweet little girl. I just hope that she'll walk down the aisle. She's a little shy, not that you could tell from the pictures. Mike asked his nephew JW yesterday if he was going to walk down the aisle with Mya. They're the same age. He said NO WAY!!

Yea, the shower was fun. It went way too fast. We got a lot of good stuff that is all sitting in boxes in our computer room. No room for it!!

Yep 6 weeks to go! We have our final meeting at the St Clair Inn this weekend to pick the menu and finalize details. We also owe a bunch of money mid month. The next 6 weeks are gonna fly!!!

[Jacklynn]

First off Mya is a very cute little girl!!!! Hopefully she doesn't mind Mike at your Wedding! lol that would make for a cute video haha :)

You got a ton of gifts at your shower! It sounds like you had a great time too :)

[SaralovesMike]

First off Mya is a very cute little girl!!!! Hopefully she doesn't mind Mike at your Wedding! lol that would make for a cute video haha :)



It will be interesting to see what happens. She seems to be pretty comfortable with me. But as soon as she sees Mike the smile goes away and she hides and won't even look at him. It's not just him, it's men in general.
I guess I can sympathize. When I was little I was afraid of my uncles for whatever reason. They still tease me to this day saying I didn't even talk to them until I was 20. :)

I can just see the video now. She's ok until Mike speaks to her then it's all over! LOL

[Goin2thechapel]

Looks like your shower was a hit. Glad you got alot of gifts.

How adorable are those kids! Less than 2 months now!!!

[SaralovesMike]

I know we can finally say "the wedding is next month!"
OMG! Time is really gonna fly now! :)

[Goin2thechapel]

You have no idea!!!

[SaralovesMike]

You have no idea!!!

LOL. I guess that means it will be the end of our honeymoon before we know it huh? :)

[NicksBride]

haha everything does go by so fast. :( But we are getting pictures back and it is like we are living the day again. SO as long as you have pictures and VIDEO, you will be all set.
YEA for weddings.

[SaralovesMike]

Pictures are great. I'm sure you're reliving the wedding as well as seeing some things you didn't get to see or missed on your wedding day.
Yep, we're capturing ours on video AND we finally got our memory card so we can have our own video of things (like the rehearsal and such)

[NicksBride]

Oh good, glad to hear that you got your memory card. You will have those forever to watch. hehe even show your children. :)

[Jacklynn]

oh it will be so exciting to see video! I'm still trying to figure out how I am going to set mine up hehe and I have a week left... ops!

[SaralovesMike]

oh it will be so exciting to see video! I'm still trying to figure out how I am going to set mine up hehe and I have a week left... ops!

Uh oh! You better start getting it together. :) 4 days left!!! woo hoo!!

[SaralovesMike]

I haven't been on much the past week or so. It's just been crazy around here. I can't believe how close we are getting to the wedding- 5 weeks and a couple days. Wow!!

This past weekend we went up to the St Clair Inn and finalized some details for the wedding. We picked out the menu and the bar. All we have to do there is give them a final head count a couple days before the wedding.

We're having a buffet dinner, this is how it stacked out:

Roast Beef and Gravy
Chicken Parmesan
Garden Salad
Italian Pasta Salad
Baby redskin potatoes (roasted)

We also get bread, veggies (chefs choice) and something else I can't remember at the moment.

The bar will open at 5:30 (the ceremony is at 5). While we are taking pictures they will be serving a meat, cheese and fruit tray as an appetizer. The bar is a totally open bar with premium brands of alcohol. That was my dad's request.
With the open bar we got 2 kinds of beer and 3 wines. Mike chose the beer and we winged it with the wine. We chose a red, white and blush so we figured we got everyone. We also have a bottle of champagne at every table for the toast.

[SaralovesMike]

This weekend is Mike's big bachelor party weekend. They are going to Mt Pleasant to go golfing (zzzzzz!) and to the casino. It turned out to only be 3 people going, Mike, his brother Bill and Mike's ex roommate and best man Vichit. Those 3 are the hard core golfers! It wouldn't suprise me if that is all they do for all 3 days. They are leaving Friday morning and coming home on Sunday afternoon.
Of course they have been trying to find time this week to have a "practice" session. I guess you can't go out and golf without going to practice. Whatever.

They were supposed to go last night but Mike who called in sick yesterday got called in to work anyway. Long story but his boss is kind of a jerk. Not mean but just expects him to be at his beck and call. Mike had a dentist appointment and a cholesterol check in the last couple weeks. The cholesterol was a recheck from the fall. The dr screwed up and it was really high. He wasn't told to fast before the appointment and he ate lunch an hour or so before. His results came back way over 200. So he had to come back and low and behold he was a little high but close to normal. He has to go back for an ultra sound and more blood work because something with his gall bladder came back abnormally high, kind of scary but seeing how the first cholesterol test came back not suprising that it might be a mistake.
ANYWAY, he had a dr appointment yesterday at 5 and they were supposed to golf afterwards. Mike's boss called him in so not only did he have to reschedule to appointment but the golfing was off too. His boss told him that he really needed to start making these drs appointments "after hours" since he seems to be leaving or coming in late lately. 2 times in a year??
How does he expect him to schedule around the office hours? Mike leaves the house at 6:15 am and doesn't get home until close to 7 pm?
I can just see him calling Mike while we are on our honeymoon. Mike assures me he won't but this man also ruined our weekend away back in December insisting that Mike attend a meeting at 8 am on a Saturday- we were 2 hours away. Lets not think about it right???

My semi-bachelorette party is also on Saturday. My mom, aunt, grandma, cousin and sister and I are going to dinner and to the casino downtown (Detroit). My mom wanted to do something fun while the guys were away. It should be a good time. My "real" bachelorette party will be in June. One of the girls I used to work with is in charge of that one. We hope to do it on the night that Mike's best man is planning a bbq/poker party at his place for the guys that didn't get to go on the golf trip.

Alright I'm gonna upload some pictures and stop writing this wall! :)

[NicksBride]

wow 5 weeks! That is just amazing huh?
Have a blast on your "Bachelorette party" Sorry about Mikes boss being a jerk. Hopefully he can enjoy it this saturday. Golfing... Must be a guy thing. haha oh well, they have their fun, you get to have yours. :)

[SaralovesMike]

These are pictures of where our reception will be.

I thought this was a really good idea for the guest book table. They framed their invitation and had it sitting on the table. If we can get some pictures taken in time we will also have a signature board right next to the table. My sister is supposed to go with us and take some pictures. She is putting together a montage of us growing up and together for the rehearsal.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1291.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1290.jpg


some guest tables
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1293.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1296.jpg

On the other side of the wall where the tables are is the pool room. For our reception it will be opened up and there will be more tables in there.

[SaralovesMike]

This is the head table. It's hard to see but directly behind the table is the deck and the water.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1294.jpg

This is the gift table
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1295.jpg
and cake table.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/100_1292.jpg

The open doors lead into the main room. This is the room that will have the buffet tables and bar. I might have pictures of that too.
But first I have to find our cake and gift table pictures!

[SaralovesMike]

our centerpieces for the tables:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0004.jpg

the cake table:
we're going to have more flowers and tulle on the table along with the lights
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0003.jpg

the gift table:
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/scan0001.jpg

[SaralovesMike]

Its a really dark picture but this is the room where the buffet and things are.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/reception6.jpg
It's nice because the other room is so small. Having this extra room for the food will make it seem not so crowded. It's pretty open in here, in fact on the opposite end of the room this is where the table with the guest book will be. We figure people will be outside on the deck anyways if it's nice!

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/decorations.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/reception2.jpg

Wouldn't you be??

This is our ceremony site, I hope our day is this nice!!
This was last June 16... or pretty close to it!
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g202/bambi219/birdhouse1.jpg

[NicksBride]

WOW! Everything is sooo elegant. I love the room and the tables and all. I can't wait to see pictures of YOUR wedding!!

[SaralovesMike]

wow 5 weeks! That is just amazing huh?
Have a blast on your "Bachelorette party" Sorry about Mikes boss being a jerk. Hopefully he can enjoy it this saturday. Golfing... Must be a guy thing. haha oh well, they have their fun, you get to have yours. :)

Crazy!!

Hopefully his boss will leave him alone, at least on Friday. He doesn't really hear from him on the weekends. But he does find it necessary to check him email from home just in case.

I can't wait for the weekend, it should be a lot of fun!