Workout

It's been awhile since I fit in some of my jeans so I've decided to become a member at a gym. Monday was my first official day as a member. I took a pilates class which I thought wasn't going to work me... until two days later and my abs still hurt. Today I start my free training program with a french woman who just happens to be a football player. So much for prancing around the gym in a leotard, I'm afraid I'll be one of those contestants on the biggest loser crying while their coach tells them to do 10 more. Will keep you updated.

Seven Weddings

When Mike and I counted how many weddings were going to this year, we thought wow we are going to be busy this summer and fall. Yesterday was wedding reception #5. Our friends closed down the Wicked Hop for their friends and family. It was great - open bar, good food and the bride and groom were so happy.

I have to say I'm very excited for Sue and Lamont's wedding next weekend. I've been looking forward to it ever since Mike and I met them out in Chicago and Lamont whispered something along the lines of..."Hook me up with your number because I'm going ask Sue to marry me and it's going to be a huge surprise." That was December 2008.

I don't know what I'm most looking forward to - the winery, dancing with my friends, seeing Sue in a wedding dress or just being part of their special day. I think the later.

The Time Traveler's Wife Movie

Not as good as the book - but I cried so hard it looked like I had pink eye.

The Time Traveler's Wife

If you haven't yet read "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffengger add it to your reading list now. It's an amazing story of love and dedication through time and space. Throughout reading I wondered what it would feel like if Mike was a time traveler (in his dreams he is) and how I would feel seeing past or future Mike. Or what would happen if he would tell me things that are to happen in the future. I can't say I would want to know. It's almost like know your death date. If you know something is going to happen would you (or wouldn't you) take steps to make sure it does (or doesn't) happen?

Granted the book is better than the movie - off to see it tonight - Can't resist Eric Bana.

afterthought

Yesterday I was thinking more about this gift registering. I asked my sister who's been through the process of why a couple would register for little items that could be easily purchased by the couple. She made a good point in saying that you have to consider your guest's budget, putting items of various values on your list. It made sense.

I guess I'm not your "typical person getting married" as noted in a previous post. This morning while reading the Miss Manners column, she discusses guest etiquette in regards to contributing to the wedded couples favorite charity. How refreshing is it that couples are thinking about giving back as their wedding gift. This is something I also have been thinking about. If I had to have a shower, this is exactly what I would do. Miss manners says (talking in second person) "Yes, Yes, she is aware that a vast number of people presume that their weddings (and graduations and birthdays) are license to order what they want from their relatives and friends."

I begin thinking about Christmas, birthday and even my own graduation, high school and college. Immediately I was ashamed. For my high school graduation I was in Target scanning items I wanted to start my college life. I'm now mortified.

I'm not blaming my Mom for throwing a party I didn't want, because I could have put my foot down. I think I spent most of that party sitting on the peer with my friend Tony. My family and family friends probably thought I was an inconsiderate snot. I did appreciate the gifts and they helped out immensely my first year.

Much has changed since then. Mom's not here and my perspective on life has 180-ed. And I think with time my family's perspective on giving has changed as well, our big family christmas' are now spent purchasing and wrapping presents for a family who needs it. I am extremely grateful to have financial independence and would give it all back just have my mom.

My lesson learned: To not even look at their list. To give them a gift I think will make them happy on their special day.

Registering for gifts

Having perused family and friend's gift registries, there are some things I think I really funny to register for - like fondue kits, line spool, long red handle grip and corn seasoning. I JUST can't imagine opening up a gift and gushing over a long red handle grip... maybe if it were purple or teal...

Things Mike and I could register for that I think are very practical and would really help us out as newlyweds:
1. M&I Bank CDS
2. A month's mortgage payment
3. Snow tires
4. Motor Oil
5. Cable bill payments
6. Fireplace Insert
7. New windows
8. Frozen salmon
9. Alterra coffee beans
10. Cupcake baking tins

Why I'm not a typical person getting married - or "bride"

1. Doesn't want bridal shower
2. Doesn't want bachelorette party.
3. Would rather send an evite verses a formal mailed invite
4. Doesn't care what color or style the maid of honor dress is
5. Doesn't own or want a wedding planner kit
6. Has already unsubscribed from the knot.com email list
7. Mike has already done more planning by far
8. Thinks showers are just a way to get presents
9. Doesn't own any bridal magazines
10. Could walk into the courthouse, get married and that would be it.

Don't get me wrong, I'm excited to get married the few things I do want

1. the day to be unforgettable
2. a memorable dress
3. excellent food
4. fun music
5. my closest friends & family
6. a sunny sky
7. everyone to have a good time
8. future family in the Philippines to come
9. a relaxing day after with the future husband
10. a safe trip home