3.5 weeks and counting- obviously life has caught up with me as I haven't posted since spring break. i'll do other-than-wedding items first.
Got a job- sort of. In addition to regular subbing at NTHS, I sort of fell into a "long term" sub position at new trier. (quotes on the long term because 5-6 weeks to the end of the year- this friday- isn't exactly long, but i'll take it.) I taught the unit on student congress (aka congressional debate) to freshman at NT-Northfield. it was actually a lot of fun- great kids. and it gave me the chance to sub everywhere else at northfield because i was there every day anyway. English is of course what I can do "best," but the staff and faculty there are terrific- the Dept. Assts are all fabulous and super nice. I like it when I actually get to "do" something with the kids, but the last 2 weeks or so was a lot of review (finals are this week). Otherwise, my grading is almost totally complete and I'm looking for jobs for the fall. (Sadly, NT has yet to post ANY teaching positions- I look every other day!)
Spent a chunk (2 days) of Memorial Day weekend up in Wisconsin at Fester's cottage- the dock was already in, but Tom helped the guys do more stonework (now that the septic tank is in) and Barb and I did kitchen super-clean and lighter general house cleaning (mostly because we super cleaned the house last year- but not the kitchen. so we didn't have to do the major cleaning on the rest of the house- i dusted for cobwebs and did a general dusting, and went to the laundromat for the annual sheets-and-towels washing. Helped Barb change the bed linens and she finished the vacuuming i missed as well as did bathrooms. (which kind of worked out well because i'm not a fan of bathrooms!) so the house is effectively open and ready for summer. The addition of the septic tank (instead of "field") limits our water usage, so the rules of water use change- and likely some things change (like probably new water-saver toilets by the end of summer... not an easy change, but probably necessary.)
(The reason for this update is not only to document our Mem. Day weekend activities, but also the update on our honeymoon location- at the cottage. We're ready! -mostly, anyway.)
Okay, the wedding update.
Had my first psuedo-meltdown about 2 weeks ago. source of meltdown was lack of stuff done and the advent of the 6-weeks mark. Tom, of course, has been working and has 4 preps and crazy kids and end-of-year stress- none of which I blame him for- it was all necessary and logical. but i needed to be more proactive in getting him to answer a few questions and "do" a few things and so i freaked out a little bit. and that friday when he came home we sat down for an hour and answered all questions and now things are fine.
except for the occasional "geez it's only (x time) away!" but that is getting less as i check more off the list. getting past this weekend, i think, will help.
However: Music, readings, programs, etc, for wedding are done. Okay, not exactly. programs need assembling, but that is an activity set for Saturday evening with help while boys are bachelor party-ing it up. Also will likely tie ribbons on bells. (alternative to bubbles. didn't want bubbles.) Ribbons are already cut- did that while watching Olbermann last night.
Photo sheets are in- and that was a step (8 pages!). we think we have all the photo requests, and we get to talk to Freddie (our fabulous photographer) a week before to "clarify" some of the weird intricacies of our group and ideas.
The next major for filling out stuff is DJ, and i need Tom to confirm a few things before we do that- though I'll probably call them soon.
Scheduled: hair test (tomorrow), hair color, and cake tasting (both next weekend). Need to schedule nails, and then final hair appointments (after test, of course).
In all, feeling a little better about reception as well. RSVPs due this weekend (send those suckers in!), but did a preliminary "possibles" table-setting last weekend and am less stressed about that. Better.
On top of all this (i know- as if i need more) is 4th of July. Really this organization runs itself, and i think that, and the fact that everyone knows i'm getting married the week before, helps me to know that things will work and i don't need to worry too much about it. The people on C-Team are great and know their stuff and I can "stop out" effectively after parade assembly until after the wedding and everything will still come off just fine. It will be good.
so- we keep counting down and getting stuff done! and it will be one great, big party. hooray!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Spring Break!
This week is spring break. There is no subbing for me (almost glad for a break, but thankful to be getting work!) and a needed break for Tom. Though we have a list 10 miles long of things we'd like to accomplish during break- mostly outdoor and garage projects- summer prep-related.
This week is also Holy Week, which means I'll be at church nearly every day, with either and actual service or a rehearsal or meeting of some type. and I actually really enjoy Holy Week- likely in the neurotic way that most Lutherans actually enjoy Lent. (Really, with Holy Week being the culmination of Lent, isn't that appropriate? I'm almost ready to say "H---------!" again- if you don't know what that is, wait until Easter Day and go ask a Lutheran.)
This year we have the luxury of having Passover (Pesach) happen during Holy Week. While at church, we will be observed a shortened seder=like dinner on Thursday, my family is going to "real" family seder on Monday night. I look forward to this all year, as it is fun, meaningful, good food and company, but really enlightens my understanding of why we, as Christians, celebrate Easter. In part, I am confused on why Christians no longer celebrate some of the Jewish holidays- it is the foundation of our faith and many of the traditions make so much sense. In my mind, they give more meaning to the faith I believe- and the traditions which the church sometimes seems to really lack. That and I've never really gotten a straight answer to why we DON'T observe some of these holidays/festivals in the same way, when some of them (like Passover) I really think we should.
The Wall Street Journal had a great article last week on Passover and the modernizing of the holiday- the tagline was "Passover Meets Twitter"- but I do encourage a reading. The seder we attend is a family seder and it does include "acting out" the plagues- and part of the levity of the celebration, and its participatory nature, helps me understand it even more.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703909804575123562145336920.html?KEYWORDS=New+Seder
As we move into spring break and holy week, we also enter the last 3 months of wedding planning. And I must again revisit some of the prescribed lists to figure out what I have to do next. I feel this is partially a time of "hurry up and wait," which is a little unnerving. Mostly because I am not sure what I need to be doing, if anything yet. It is too early for many things and other things, I think, are either done or in a holding pattern until after Easter (like some service prep and pre-marriage counseling, though the inventories start this week for us).
In other news, I finally posted the Hawaii pictures to Facebook. Next will be a brief section of shower photos- I don't really feel the need to post pictures of Tom and I with almost every gift- though some of the shots are kind of fun and funny, and therefore those will get posted later in the week.
This week is also Holy Week, which means I'll be at church nearly every day, with either and actual service or a rehearsal or meeting of some type. and I actually really enjoy Holy Week- likely in the neurotic way that most Lutherans actually enjoy Lent. (Really, with Holy Week being the culmination of Lent, isn't that appropriate? I'm almost ready to say "H---------!" again- if you don't know what that is, wait until Easter Day and go ask a Lutheran.)
This year we have the luxury of having Passover (Pesach) happen during Holy Week. While at church, we will be observed a shortened seder=like dinner on Thursday, my family is going to "real" family seder on Monday night. I look forward to this all year, as it is fun, meaningful, good food and company, but really enlightens my understanding of why we, as Christians, celebrate Easter. In part, I am confused on why Christians no longer celebrate some of the Jewish holidays- it is the foundation of our faith and many of the traditions make so much sense. In my mind, they give more meaning to the faith I believe- and the traditions which the church sometimes seems to really lack. That and I've never really gotten a straight answer to why we DON'T observe some of these holidays/festivals in the same way, when some of them (like Passover) I really think we should.
The Wall Street Journal had a great article last week on Passover and the modernizing of the holiday- the tagline was "Passover Meets Twitter"- but I do encourage a reading. The seder we attend is a family seder and it does include "acting out" the plagues- and part of the levity of the celebration, and its participatory nature, helps me understand it even more.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703909804575123562145336920.html?KEYWORDS=New+Seder
As we move into spring break and holy week, we also enter the last 3 months of wedding planning. And I must again revisit some of the prescribed lists to figure out what I have to do next. I feel this is partially a time of "hurry up and wait," which is a little unnerving. Mostly because I am not sure what I need to be doing, if anything yet. It is too early for many things and other things, I think, are either done or in a holding pattern until after Easter (like some service prep and pre-marriage counseling, though the inventories start this week for us).
In other news, I finally posted the Hawaii pictures to Facebook. Next will be a brief section of shower photos- I don't really feel the need to post pictures of Tom and I with almost every gift- though some of the shots are kind of fun and funny, and therefore those will get posted later in the week.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Shower!
First a note of accomplishment:
All the tuxedo information has been sent out to the guys. (After I discovered that I was supposed to assist in this process by creating the section of the email with all the numbers and names they need.) Tom sent it an inadvertently said the deadline was April 25th. (It's May 25th. Oops. Now it will look like our guys are super ahead of the game, I guess!)
But this weekend was our shower!
A huge thank-you to our moms especially who did the most fantastic job putting on a beautiful shower. Thank you to those who helped, who attended, and who enjoyed everything that had to do with it! (and those who assisted in transporting the gifts back home!)
Tom and I are feeling very blessed to have family who traveled across state lines to attend, some of whom stayed an extra day or two. We received so much of what we registered for, and the gifts were not only practical, but so thoughtful and generous! We really are blessed to know such kind people!
Saturday evening, post-shower and in comfier clothing, we managed to start to sort and organize and begin to store some things (like china and towels) for later use. We decided that some things we would use right away- mostly kitchen stuff, like bakeware and my new spice grinder- hooray! Then we celebrated with leftover shower food (of which there was really not much- we actually picked up more on the way home!) and either beer or lemon drop martinis, pending persuasions.
With the direction of Maia, Mom and I also learned how to play carcassonne this weekend- a very fun game which will probably be used frequently in rotation with settlers now.
All in all, a stellar weekend.
On to more research paper and thank-you notes!!
All the tuxedo information has been sent out to the guys. (After I discovered that I was supposed to assist in this process by creating the section of the email with all the numbers and names they need.) Tom sent it an inadvertently said the deadline was April 25th. (It's May 25th. Oops. Now it will look like our guys are super ahead of the game, I guess!)
But this weekend was our shower!
A huge thank-you to our moms especially who did the most fantastic job putting on a beautiful shower. Thank you to those who helped, who attended, and who enjoyed everything that had to do with it! (and those who assisted in transporting the gifts back home!)
Tom and I are feeling very blessed to have family who traveled across state lines to attend, some of whom stayed an extra day or two. We received so much of what we registered for, and the gifts were not only practical, but so thoughtful and generous! We really are blessed to know such kind people!
Saturday evening, post-shower and in comfier clothing, we managed to start to sort and organize and begin to store some things (like china and towels) for later use. We decided that some things we would use right away- mostly kitchen stuff, like bakeware and my new spice grinder- hooray! Then we celebrated with leftover shower food (of which there was really not much- we actually picked up more on the way home!) and either beer or lemon drop martinis, pending persuasions.
With the direction of Maia, Mom and I also learned how to play carcassonne this weekend- a very fun game which will probably be used frequently in rotation with settlers now.
All in all, a stellar weekend.
On to more research paper and thank-you notes!!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Into March...
We're starting to notice signs of spring (in particular the SUN and melting snow!) and beginning to realize that we're getting married in a bout 3.5 months. And that feels SOON.
So- the update.
1. Tuxes chosen (Tom has to send out that email with info, or is required to get me other emails!)
2. Wedding bands ordered- and finished. I pick them up on Friday.
3. Dress fitting number one- and the biggest, I'm sure (3 inches off the hem, and shoulder straps taken in.)
4. (which actually happened before "3") appropriate undergarments purchased. (the back is kind of low)
5. Tasting is TOMORROW.
6. Shower is SATURDAY. (checking registries is one of the most entertaining things I have ever done!!)
7. Dress fiasco sorted out- I think.
Explanations of course warranted on number seven. Everyone knows we picked the color (platinum) very early in our engagement- like in October of 2008. Seriously. Picked the designer for bridesmaids dresses (separates) and all was fine. Until about last month when people were getting ready to order them and PLATINUM HAD BEEN DISCONTINUED.
Grr.
So some other designers have platinum, and it's a little darker, but passable. and another designer has "pewter," which is like the other designer's "platinum." I finally picked a couple of designers and a couple of colors (all close to the same, just called something different for each), and then just get whatever is comfortable. Mostly I'm ready to have the clothings portion done. Seriously.
On the plus side, I got a lovely box today with 4 place settings of our new flatware. score!
And now- the writing of the thank-you notes begins!!
So- the update.
1. Tuxes chosen (Tom has to send out that email with info, or is required to get me other emails!)
2. Wedding bands ordered- and finished. I pick them up on Friday.
3. Dress fitting number one- and the biggest, I'm sure (3 inches off the hem, and shoulder straps taken in.)
4. (which actually happened before "3") appropriate undergarments purchased. (the back is kind of low)
5. Tasting is TOMORROW.
6. Shower is SATURDAY. (checking registries is one of the most entertaining things I have ever done!!)
7. Dress fiasco sorted out- I think.
Explanations of course warranted on number seven. Everyone knows we picked the color (platinum) very early in our engagement- like in October of 2008. Seriously. Picked the designer for bridesmaids dresses (separates) and all was fine. Until about last month when people were getting ready to order them and PLATINUM HAD BEEN DISCONTINUED.
Grr.
So some other designers have platinum, and it's a little darker, but passable. and another designer has "pewter," which is like the other designer's "platinum." I finally picked a couple of designers and a couple of colors (all close to the same, just called something different for each), and then just get whatever is comfortable. Mostly I'm ready to have the clothings portion done. Seriously.
On the plus side, I got a lovely box today with 4 place settings of our new flatware. score!
And now- the writing of the thank-you notes begins!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Lent
I'm a Lutheran, and you may know that we all have some crazy fascination with Lent, whether or not we admit it. Unlike other religions, there isn't really a "requirement" to give up something for Lent, though some do. (It's more of a challenge/test of fortitude. I usually try to do something better- like eat better or exercise- it's more of a time to reinstate New Year's resolutions that have fallen by the wayside.)
Anyway- here were are at the very beginning of Lent.
I spent the week before Lent in 80+ degree Maui, enjoying salt water, whales, relaxing time with Tom, and the amazing island itself.
I came back remembering I had agreed to write a Lenten devotion- I finally finished it, and I share it with you.
The suggestion was to reflect on the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness- the passage specifically from Luke 4:1-2. The prompt suggests that Lent is thought of as a wilderness experience, and we could reflect on that idea- our own experience, or the scripture passage, or wherever the Spirit leads. A combination of thoughts and some inspiration from the trip lead to the following:
I spent the week preceding Lent this year in Maui. The trip was incredible and we saw some really powerful aspects of God’s creation throughout the week. With the help of a guidebook, we took a “scenic drive” around the north-western part of the island. One of the highlights was a spot called the Nakalele Blowhole. (The name doesn’t even begin to describe it.) We were so awestruck by the power of nature here that we actually went back a second time to take more pictures and just see what some simple salt water can do.
The majesty has its limitations, though. The guidebook reminds you that “this is wilderness. There is no guard-rail to stop you from shrinking the gene pool should you use bad judgment and fall into the hole.” It goes on to suggest using common sense as you approach and specifies what times the blowhole might be at its “best” in terms of water spray. It was, both time, amazing and awesome.
What does this have to do with Lent? Wilderness is present in both Jesus experience and in ours. Even though Jesus suffered temptations and hunger, there is nothing in scripture that says the experience was negative. A test, a trial, a temptation- could these not also be what our parents used to call “character building experiences?” Can’t wilderness be awe-inspiring and amazing?
During Lent, I encourage you to find the amazing in the wilderness before you.
Even if you are not a faith-filled person, I encourage you to find the positive in wilderness.
Anyway- here were are at the very beginning of Lent.
I spent the week before Lent in 80+ degree Maui, enjoying salt water, whales, relaxing time with Tom, and the amazing island itself.
I came back remembering I had agreed to write a Lenten devotion- I finally finished it, and I share it with you.
The suggestion was to reflect on the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness- the passage specifically from Luke 4:1-2. The prompt suggests that Lent is thought of as a wilderness experience, and we could reflect on that idea- our own experience, or the scripture passage, or wherever the Spirit leads. A combination of thoughts and some inspiration from the trip lead to the following:
I spent the week preceding Lent this year in Maui. The trip was incredible and we saw some really powerful aspects of God’s creation throughout the week. With the help of a guidebook, we took a “scenic drive” around the north-western part of the island. One of the highlights was a spot called the Nakalele Blowhole. (The name doesn’t even begin to describe it.) We were so awestruck by the power of nature here that we actually went back a second time to take more pictures and just see what some simple salt water can do.
The majesty has its limitations, though. The guidebook reminds you that “this is wilderness. There is no guard-rail to stop you from shrinking the gene pool should you use bad judgment and fall into the hole.” It goes on to suggest using common sense as you approach and specifies what times the blowhole might be at its “best” in terms of water spray. It was, both time, amazing and awesome.
What does this have to do with Lent? Wilderness is present in both Jesus experience and in ours. Even though Jesus suffered temptations and hunger, there is nothing in scripture that says the experience was negative. A test, a trial, a temptation- could these not also be what our parents used to call “character building experiences?” Can’t wilderness be awe-inspiring and amazing?
During Lent, I encourage you to find the amazing in the wilderness before you.
Even if you are not a faith-filled person, I encourage you to find the positive in wilderness.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
February
Well, we're at the under-5-months mark, and still a fair amount to do. I'm trying to chip away at the wedding details without freaking out. I'm also trying to involve Tom in as much as possible in the least amount of time. (In other words, I do all the research and pricing and present him with options. Lesson planning (4 preps!) is rather time consuming for him right now!!
So- we're plugging along. China pattern finally agreed on. Yet to add placemats/napkins, but also not overly concerned about it yet. (Need to do pre-Friday.)
Tasting scheduled for February 24th- for dinner. Following that we meet with bakery people. (Hoping for cupcakes, variation on flavors, and at least a few gluten-free ones!!)
Have to schedule appointment with jeweler, but I now know what I'm looking for for Tom's ring. (Frankly, I think I kind of get off easy on this one!)
Bridal shower is March 13th, which is nice. I really am hoping to get certain stuff then so I can start using it, but it's silly to ask for specific priorities- just happy to get things needed and that will be used and appreciated!
Otherwise- we leave for Maui on Saturday. Kind of a "pre-honeymoon," gift from Tom's parents. (they have a time share in Maui, and are taking us this year because once we're both full time teaching, a full week in February becomes an impossibility- or at least not a great idea!!) So we're getting excited, though Tom is slightly overwhelmed by having to do a week of sub plans for four different classes! (not that I blame him!)
Looking forward to some good "beach reads" on this trip- though my beach reading is probably not standard! On the top of my list is "Liberty" by Garrison Keillor, to really get my head into parade-mode, as that will also kick up once I'm back to reality!!
Really- ready for warm weather. Though will likely not mind an escape from Chicago politics at present!
So- we're plugging along. China pattern finally agreed on. Yet to add placemats/napkins, but also not overly concerned about it yet. (Need to do pre-Friday.)
Tasting scheduled for February 24th- for dinner. Following that we meet with bakery people. (Hoping for cupcakes, variation on flavors, and at least a few gluten-free ones!!)
Have to schedule appointment with jeweler, but I now know what I'm looking for for Tom's ring. (Frankly, I think I kind of get off easy on this one!)
Bridal shower is March 13th, which is nice. I really am hoping to get certain stuff then so I can start using it, but it's silly to ask for specific priorities- just happy to get things needed and that will be used and appreciated!
Otherwise- we leave for Maui on Saturday. Kind of a "pre-honeymoon," gift from Tom's parents. (they have a time share in Maui, and are taking us this year because once we're both full time teaching, a full week in February becomes an impossibility- or at least not a great idea!!) So we're getting excited, though Tom is slightly overwhelmed by having to do a week of sub plans for four different classes! (not that I blame him!)
Looking forward to some good "beach reads" on this trip- though my beach reading is probably not standard! On the top of my list is "Liberty" by Garrison Keillor, to really get my head into parade-mode, as that will also kick up once I'm back to reality!!
Really- ready for warm weather. Though will likely not mind an escape from Chicago politics at present!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Updates on the planning process
Okay, I officially feel like progress has been made this past week, so I can actually blog about it!
1) Save-the-dates have almost entirely been mailed. (If you EVER need photo cards in the future, I HIGHLY recommend costco. Wow, what a deal!)
2) Because save-the-dates are mailed, this means that I have a complete (i think) guest list with ALL addresses on a spreadsheet that I can update as necessary. And therefore a list of current addresses to use for all other mail-related correspondence in the future (even not wedding-related!)
3) We registered. With the exception of a few items that don't "come out" until spring (like 3 weeks or so) and a china setting. Apparently what we originally both liked isn't "fancy" enough for formal china. I disagree and believe in simple elegance, but am being open to thinking about it. For about another 2 weeks and then we HAVE to make a decision.)
4) Met with and priced and then chose a florist. (Phew.) Will have to decide on things like altar flowers and pew decorations (if using and then what they should be), but the contract is signed and the deposit is down.)
5) Selected tuxes. This was a HUGE endeavor. And if any bridal store tells you that their colors complement at a tuxedo place, THEY LIE. Anyway, Tom is good with colors and therefore we spent about 3 hours picking out stuff we think will match effectively and actually look good on a multitude of shapes/sizes. And then Tom got measured, too, so I think we're on our way with that.
6) A shower is being planned by the moms and local female relatives on Tom's side. This is good, because bridesmaids are spread out around the country and there are a lot of local women who will want a shower so it needs to happen. I am told I am not supposed to help, but I did provide my part of the guest list. (and we registered, which apparently everyone has been asking about. except not asking us, so we didn't know.)
7) Selected a photo to frame instead of a guestbook (in place of- you sign the mat board). Went to get it custom framed at Michael's this weekend for 55% discount. Nice.
8) Okay, hard to count this one among "my" accomplishments, but it is important: we installed a new pastor at church on Sunday so now we have an officiant! Hooray! (meaning we can get to work on the church portion of this whole thing.)
9) We're going to Maui in February because Tom's parents rock. And we are SOOOOO excited about this! (Okay, i really am, and i think Tom would be if he didn't have so much prep for school to do in order to be gone for a week. he'll be excited on the plane and when we get there!!)
So we're moving along. Need to do rings soon, and start dress fittings. (Like chop 2 inches off the bottom is in the first installment for sure!)
1) Save-the-dates have almost entirely been mailed. (If you EVER need photo cards in the future, I HIGHLY recommend costco. Wow, what a deal!)
2) Because save-the-dates are mailed, this means that I have a complete (i think) guest list with ALL addresses on a spreadsheet that I can update as necessary. And therefore a list of current addresses to use for all other mail-related correspondence in the future (even not wedding-related!)
3) We registered. With the exception of a few items that don't "come out" until spring (like 3 weeks or so) and a china setting. Apparently what we originally both liked isn't "fancy" enough for formal china. I disagree and believe in simple elegance, but am being open to thinking about it. For about another 2 weeks and then we HAVE to make a decision.)
4) Met with and priced and then chose a florist. (Phew.) Will have to decide on things like altar flowers and pew decorations (if using and then what they should be), but the contract is signed and the deposit is down.)
5) Selected tuxes. This was a HUGE endeavor. And if any bridal store tells you that their colors complement at a tuxedo place, THEY LIE. Anyway, Tom is good with colors and therefore we spent about 3 hours picking out stuff we think will match effectively and actually look good on a multitude of shapes/sizes. And then Tom got measured, too, so I think we're on our way with that.
6) A shower is being planned by the moms and local female relatives on Tom's side. This is good, because bridesmaids are spread out around the country and there are a lot of local women who will want a shower so it needs to happen. I am told I am not supposed to help, but I did provide my part of the guest list. (and we registered, which apparently everyone has been asking about. except not asking us, so we didn't know.)
7) Selected a photo to frame instead of a guestbook (in place of- you sign the mat board). Went to get it custom framed at Michael's this weekend for 55% discount. Nice.
8) Okay, hard to count this one among "my" accomplishments, but it is important: we installed a new pastor at church on Sunday so now we have an officiant! Hooray! (meaning we can get to work on the church portion of this whole thing.)
9) We're going to Maui in February because Tom's parents rock. And we are SOOOOO excited about this! (Okay, i really am, and i think Tom would be if he didn't have so much prep for school to do in order to be gone for a week. he'll be excited on the plane and when we get there!!)
So we're moving along. Need to do rings soon, and start dress fittings. (Like chop 2 inches off the bottom is in the first installment for sure!)
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