A Paper I Wrote For Anthony

So Anthony starting thanking me for offering to write his paper today and, instead of just giggling and mock-punching him on the shoulder, squealing "Oh you!" I wrote a paper! Sadly, I don't think that Anthony will be turning it in. I guess I'll just have to show the internet all of the hard work I put into his paper!

To Mr. Professor, etc.:

I really enjoy writing papers, especially this one. How great is it that I am in your class? Pretty awesome, right? You know what is even MORE awesome? Dragons. That right, dragons. This class probably would have its awesome-factor increase by a product of super-coolness-percent by adding dragons. Or, a helicopter. Scratch that – a DRAGON-coptor. Instead of shooting missiles like a boring old helicopter, it would shoot fire breath. And it would have both wings that are super scaly in a MILLION different colors of black (black-as-night, black-as-death, black-as-a-terminally-ill-smoker’s-lung, black-as-etc.) and propellers, but the propellers would be made of different kinds of awesome tails.

You know, maybe tails could have made the class cooler than it already was. When I get a tail, it better not be one of those “decoration only” tails. No, mine will definitely be useful, a PREHENSILE tail like moneys have. That way I can grab a bottle of beer with my fire-engine red monkey tail while simultaneously using my hands to grab both a boobie and a tush (seriously spellcheck?! You recognize neither “boobie” or “tush”, and not even your own NAME???).

In conclusion, here is a list of things that are awesome (listed in ascending order of awesomeness): 1) being in this class, 2) being in this class if dragons were included, 3) being in this class if helicopters were included, 4) being in this class if dragon-copters were included, 5) being in this class if the dragon-copters had tail propellers.

In re-conclusion to the awesomeness of the paper I just TOTALLY wrote, I hereby also vow to someday have the most badass prehensile tail EVER – and I promise, Mr. Professor, ect., that I will give you one of those beers I was talking about earlier by using said tail, if you, Mr. Professor, ect., promise to give me an ‘A’ on this paper. I might even give you a crack at the boobie and tush mentioned if Mr. Spellcheck-Asshole will ever get with the program.

Thanks a million!

Your best, most awesomest student ever,

Anthony “Tail-Grabber” D********

P.S. This is TOTALLY a paper, and NOT a letter (regardless of what some of the ‘haters’ might say).

What do you think?

Awesome? I thought so.

Bicycle Cake Topper

I'm pretty sure that we are set on having bike cake toppers. Here are some things for inspiration!

This next one is only 3 dollars! I would probably want to do some DIY eyes on the bikes to make them all cutesy and in love.

Maybe something I could make something like this out of foam core...

Wedding Dress Shopping

I'm planning to go wedding dress shopping on Thursday with my mother and sister. The following is a list of places that I'm considering going to (upon the advice of many others, David's Bridal will NOT be included):

Classy Consignments (no appointments necessary)
The Wedding Shoppe
Dena Marie Bridal

I'm bored now...will post more later.

What really matters...

I am marrying the most wonderful man that I have ever met.

Both of us had the "wow" moment when we met each other, but the timing wasn't right. In fact, we talk often about the perfect (well, kind of) circumstances in our lives that led us to each other.

I am so impressed by his drive and ambition, his focus to actually get the work done (as opposed to my willing procrastination) and Anthony, in turn, greatly values my support and honesty regarding his work. He is so encouraging of my writing, but doesn't pressure me to work "harder" on it. He gives me ideas and helps me develop these. All of our ideas ping-pong back-and-forth and it pleases me to no end the continuous discussions we are able to have regarding our respective passions. He teases me saying "And you thought that we would run out of things to talk about!"

Anthony is the kindest, most giving person. He is non-judgmental, compassionate, understanding, and a wonderful listener.

We made a promise to each other and ourselves that we will never let an annoyance or moment of hurt ruin our relationship: we bring up every possible issue or fight to attention as soon as tactfully possible, in order to avoid the lingering negativity. In short, we work on our relationship constantly. When you bring up problems when they occur - though it can slightly heated in the moment - nothing is avoided. Perhaps I will feel differently after we have been married for a while, but for now I personally feel better just saying what is bothering me - that, sometimes more than Anthony's response, is such a relief - rather than bottling the negative emotions.

I love him so much, and know we will both put all of our efforts into making this marriage work. Although, as we have told each other many times before, being in love sure makes the "work" not feel like it.

Realizing Obsession

One of the issues (disregarding the obvious) is my absolute obsession with all things "wedding" - and the time to indulge said obsession. There are so many things to think about: invitations, scheduling, budgeting, guest lists, venue, menu, music, cakes/cup cakes, vows, dresses, accessories, makeup, color schemes, decorations, guest book/painting, photo-booth, photographers, table settings, centerpieces - AND THAT IS JUST THE CEREMONY AND RECEPTION! That doesn't even include bridal shower, wedding shower (apparently they are different), rehearsal dinner, groom's/bridesmaids'/parents' gifts, premarital counseling, family engagement parties, engagement photos, bachelor/bachelorette parties, etc.

So, as silly as it sounds, I am implementing a NO WEDDING RESEARCH DAY once a week.

Sweet Bicycle Decorations

Here is a post dedicated to my love love, Anthony and his love of all things bike related.

I've been brainstorming how to decorate the altar/stage for the ceremony - maybe we could put our bikes onstage "looking" at each other. Just a thought...

Retro Hair

Shall I gush once more?: I just LOVE OBBT! They have a huge thread just for retro hairstyles. I am still debating between red and blond hair, but will probably be going for a red (always a favorite or mine). Here are some hair ideas for inspiration:

http://www.youtube.com/user/ilovegerardo

Glowing Balloons

How cool would it be to have a whole bunch of LED glowing balloons?

http://offbeatbride.ning.com/forum/topics/diy-led-lighting

Button Bouquet

Here is a DIY tutorial for button bouquets. I'm thinking that this is a possibility for the bridesmaids or I might do a combination broach and button bouquet for myself!

http://offbeatbride.ning.com/forum/topics/how-i-made-my-button-bouquet

Hotel Blocking

We don't yet know what hotel we are planning on using, but we definitely want to get a block of rooms for the wedding. As I am not entirely sure what this involves, I started looking at the OBBT (Off-Beat Bride Tribe forum) for ideas. This post was extremely helpful:

http://offbeatbride.ning.com/group/minnesotaobbs/forum/topics/hotel-blocking

Incorporating Catholics

Ever since Anthony and I got engaged I have been worried about the "Catholic-ness" of his family. They are extremely accepting, open people - neither is homophobic in the least, thank goodness - I don't think I could handle that. There is a prayer before every meal, though (which is very nice, actually), and Anthony's mother wants us to get married at the Basilica (the waiting list is WAY too long, and the "donation" too costly). I originally thought, "why not have a separate, brief religious ceremony with just our parents?" - then I remembered some of the "rules". Although I wouldn't have to convert to Catholicism, I would have to promise to raise our children as Catholics. When I verified this with Anthony, he said "so?", to which I responded, "I don't want to make a false promise". He was a little taken aback by this; he had always envisioned his children going through Catechism, like he did. He thinks that it helped to shape his sense of morality. I think that I have good morals, and was raised for the most part sans religion. I do believe in God. This hasn't always been the case, but I believe that coming to the conclusion ON MY OWN makes my belief more powerful. I know that once we have children, this issue will need to be addressed, but we have both decided to table the discussion for the moment.

That being said, I recently became an Off-Beat Bride tribe member (an application based forum for non-traditional brides) and have come across many future brides with similar issues. One great idea offered to incorporate Catholicism without having a church wedding is this: having/going to Mass the evening prior in "our honor". Hopefully this will show his family that I truly do respect their religious view; it just so happens that their view is not mine.

Wedding Dress - Polka Dot with Sweetheart Neckline

So this might be the one! I converted the pounds to dollars and it is around $240, plus I'd need to get a petticoat which is a$60. Considering every, $300 isn't so bad!

http://www.honeypieboutique.co.uk/ourshop/prod_651068-Betsey.html

Bridesmaid Dress

Maybe this one? It's actually one of the wedding colors, which are teal and coral:

http://www.daddyos.com/retro/ja19.html

This light peach with black polka-dot overlay is great too:

http://www.daddyos.com/retro/epr90.html

Amazing 50's Dresses

This is a UK shop, so I will need to figure out the cost with conversion, but I'm thinking these are pretty darn affordable - and gorgeous!

http://www.vivienofholloway.com/en/

Wedding Jewelry

Vintage Jewelry I like:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/66792073/rhinestone-bib-necklace-converts-to?ref=sr_gallery_20&ga_search_query=vintage+jewelry&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_category=weddings&ga_page=12&ga_facet=

http://www.etsy.com/listing/60788896/giant-stone-necklace-purple-raspberry

http://www.etsy.com/listing/70601460/vintage-brilliant-aurora-borealis?ref=sr_gallery_27&ga_search_query=wedding+vintage+dresses&ga_page=15&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

Link: Scheduling

This article mentioned Excel spreadsheets - I couldn't resist!
http://www.weddingphotographydirectory.com/wedding-photo/for-bride-groom/photography-articles/wedding-day-schedule-planning.aspx

Wedding Dress - Polka Dot

I love the fabric on this, plus this designer seems readily adaptable.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/60320230/vintage-pretty-swiss-dot-and-eyelet-lace?ref=sr_gallery_19&ga_search_query=wedding+vintage+dresses&ga_page=53&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

Dress Designer

Her work might be slightly more expensive than my current budget, but everything is custom to my specifications and all of her customer feedback is wonderful!
http://www.etsy.com/people/bridalblissdesigns?ref=pr_profile

Wedding Dresses I Can't Afford

Beautiful pleated dress by the Peppermint Pretty store on Etsy ($1,250):

Wedding Dress - Vintage Gown

I found this vintage wedding dress and am pretty much in love with it. It's not exactly what I am looking for, but the shape is right and it is actually from the 50's. It makes me a little nervous to spend $350 on a dress that I haven't actually seen, much less tried on. I suppose if I end up getting a dress online, this will always been the case.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/70144224/1950s-vintage-ethereal-ivory-white?ref=sr_gallery_39&ga_search_query=wedding+vintage+dresses&ga_page=12&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

Wedding Dress - Alicia

This one is less expensive than most and I can probably have the off-the-shoulder straps added. I'd have to get a petticoat separate.

http://www.getgoretro.com/MissBrach/Alicia.htm

I found cool shoes!

http://www.loveithaveit.co.uk/poetic-licence-teal-polka-dot-mid-heel-shoes-11156-p.asp?uid=4580654425809

DIY: Bubbles

As always, I'm trying to find a DIY alternative that is cheaper than store-bought and more personalized. This post is all about the bubbles. Back when things were extremely stressful at work and I needed to calm down, I would do one of two things: hug Anthony (the name of my Wells Fargo pony) or blow bubbles. They are shiny and rainbow-y and pop unexpectedly! When Anthony and I are pronounced husband and wife and walk out together arm-in-arm, I want hundred of bubbles to float around us. I'm thinking that bubbles could be a good wedding favor - a little sticky, maybe, but something that everyone likes nonetheless.

http://www.diylife.com/2008/01/30/homemade-bubble-blowing-potion/

http://candacetodd.blogspot.com/2008/05/homemade-bubbles.html

Wedding Dresses - Ellana Couture

Ellana Couture from Etsy has a lot of 1950's inspired wedding dresses that are kind of close to what I am looking for:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ellanacouture?ga_search_query=rockabilly+wedding+dress&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

Clothes: Engagement Photo Session

So I have been looking all over Etsy trying to find a wedding dress that I like. Nothing brilliant yet, but I think I may have found a few people who do amazing custom work. I did, however, find this absolutely adorable pin-up style dress that I might just need to have for our engagement photos!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/54199082/1950s-vintage-style-rockabilly-halter

Photo: Anthony & I - Nerds of a Feather

Link: Article - Centerpieces

Already having a wedding blog has paid off! A recent bride and old friend suggested an article from offbeatbride.com noting alternatives to floral centerpieces. I definitely am thinking about doing something involving vinyl records. Any ideas?

http://offbeatbride.com/2007/02/non-floral-wedding-centerpieces

Link: DIY Brooch Bouquet

For those of you who know me, you probably know one of my many quirks is my loathing for flowers. In the Spring when lilacs are in bloom and I am walking outside, I specifically plan my route in order to avoid these foul, odiferous clumps. My dislike of flowers has one large benefit for the wedding: saving money. Flowers are supposed to account for around 10% of budget for the wedding; as our proposed budget is $15K, this saves Anthony and I an estimated $1,500. Score!

On the downside, brides traditionally carry a floral bouquet. Fortunately, there is a sparkly, flower-free alternative: brooch bouquets.

http://www.fancypantsweddings.com/how-to-design-a-brooch-bouquet/

Link: DIY Birdcage Veil

While shopping online for birdcage veils, I noticed the average price for what I am looking for is $70-$125. While that isn't crazy compared to other wedding costs, it seems ridiculous for a tiny little net.

Without a doubt, here is the highest praised tutorial out there:

http://madebymaryann.blogspot.com/2008_04_01_archive.html

That'll Be the Day

Blogging for a bride-to-be planning her wedding seems a common recommendation - nearly a prerequisite - to prepare for "the big day" according to most of the websites I have been frequenting. After a few month of overloading my online bookmarks with so many articles, websites, and photos that it is almost impossible to navigate them all, I am starting to understand the benefit of having these essentials all in one place. So, here we are: first ever blog for this gal, with her first ever post.

 

I decided to go with Buddy Holly's 1958 hit "That'll Be the Day" as the title for this Blog for a two main reasons:

1. The theme for our wedding is 1950's Rockabilly; it makes sense to use a rock song from the era.
2. This whole blog has one sole purpose: to prepare for the wedding, for "the Day", and the English nerd in me loves the "That'll" in the title, with its future tense.

 

I'm not planning to write a lot on this blog. Mainly, I'm going to post links, tutorials, pictures, etc.

 

Let's see how this pans out!