Life

I'm supposed to be compiling a grocery list for the week, but instead, I want to write.

(Lucky you.)

About a month into my relationship with him, I learned about his father.

"Tell me about your dad," I said.

He hung his head in sorrow and I already knew.

"He's gone, he died."

My whole body froze up like ice. As much as I tried, I just couldn't empathize his pain. How could I?

He lost a parent.

But something - something told me I would be the one to help shoulder his grief. It was very obvious he still ached from the loss.

And so I cautiously pursued this conversation, slowly learning how special his father was.

For example, Fiancee's contagious laughter. It is a carbon copy of his father's. Or Fiancee's knack for Jeopardy...apparently his dad was a genius when it came to trivia, too.

Little by little, I also learned his dad suffered from Multiple Sclerosis. A vicious disease that attacks the nervous system. And there is no cure. Yet.

It brings tears to my eyes knowing his father won't be with us on our wedding day.

But I'm hoping one small tribute will fill the room with fond stories, laughter and happiness - all in memory of this special man we both call "Dad."

So in lieu of wedding favors, we will make a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

I'm still figuring out how we'll tell our guests...

Like, should we leave a note on each table, or put up a photo of his dad, or make an announcement??

Please share your ideas. I'd love to know about the special wedding day tributes you've experienced.

Wedding Bandz

I'm not talking about the band that will play at our reception. (We still haven't decided if it will be a band or DJ or both).

I'm talkin bout the weddin bandz.

Fiancee and I did a little shopping this weekend, and I dragged him into Tiffany's. Just for fun.

Imagine my complete and total elation when he put this on...

All of a sudden, the engagement - being married - felt real.

Not that I don't feel engaged now. It just felt different.

Like, "You are ALL mine. FOREVER."

My heart, body and soul said we weren't just shopping for a ring - but for the piece of jewelry we'll wear for the rest of our lives. A very special band that communicates our everlasting commitment.

And then...

Like a sonic force of energy, I was thwarted from my epiphany.

Need I say more??

Love Note

Since fiancee and I are most likely going with traditional vows, I was thinking about writing love letters to each other on the day of the wedding.

Something to make the day more personal.

Will be a keepsake we can show our grandchildren.

Makes for romantic photo opp.

OK! I just talked myself into doing this. Now, must convince fiancee...

time to organize

For my organizational sanity, I'm going to use this blog as a place for planning. Here's my first list.

1. Find dress.
2. Figure out wedding colors.
3. Registry.
4. Wedding Web site.
5. Bachelorette party location - Vegas? (Yes, I'm reeeeeally looking forward to this little partaayy!!!)
6. DJ or band?

Clearly

I have a borderline obsession with Neysa Ruhl photography. Did I tell you, she's gonna shoot MY wedding?!!! Oh. so. lucky I am.

Congratulations to Jocelyn and Joey - the beautiful couple featured below!