I met a man & didn't know which stars to thank...

After doing my usual facebook scan of the morning this morning, I noticed there were quite a few weddings this weekend in my home town.  I was thinking, as I have reminded myself many times, that all of their 'wedding' stuff is over.  It's happened, past tense. 
But then I think for a moment.  It's not over.  The wedding is over, yes.  But they've just started their lives together as an official married couple!  It's something I think these crazy broads on these wedding shows don't consider.  You're planning one day out of the many many years to come. 

I've been so happy lately.  I feel like my life has fallen into place right where I want it.  I can't describe it completely, but I really feel like we (Rudy and I) could face anything.  Sure we've had our tough times and rough days, but I can't think of a person I'd rather spend my life with.  He means everything to me. 

So yes we're planning this big day and it's a big deal, and all that jazz.  But I'm just as excited to be his wife, and he my husband, for the rest of our lives.

In college, when we first met, I used to post lyrics in my status on AIM.  It was how I expressed myself, through lyrics.  I remember posting these:"I met a man and didn't know which stars to thank".  After hearing the song this morning, the very next line says "and then he asked one day if I would be his wife." 

Perfect.

Summer Trip to the 'Burgh.

10 Months today.  304 Days. Yikes!  I get this friendly reminder from TheKnot.com for each monthly marker.  This month's goal is supposed to be finding a dress.  Ha!  I'm way ahead of that silly website.  But since I'm overly finicky about shoes, I should probably start hunting a pair in the near future. 

Last weekend Rudy and I headed north to visit some family & friends, attend a wedding and put a homemade boat in the river for the first time.  I'll start with the boat.  Very long story short Rudy built a boat with his father from scratch.  They've spend the last nine years working on it and it's their baby. 

 I guess you could say the boat planning is as exciting for him, as wedding planning is for me.  When they put it in the water for the first time, it was really an experience.  Two people have worked so hard on something for so long, and it was really a moment of truth!  Will it float?  Will it work? etc.  :)  Well it did, and it was awesome.  What a work of art!!

That same day, while Rudy was busy with the boat, my sweet Grandma and I went to visit a few florists in the greater Pittsburgh area.  I showed her the site for the ceremony and reception and I know that meant a lot to her.  When we were talking with florists I realized a few important factors in choosing a florist:

1) the flowers you see online and in bridal magazines are ALWAYS expensive and often times unavailable completely.

2) Finding a non-pushy florist who doesn't try to guide you towards something you don't really want but are too nice to say so.

3)  I know nothing about flowers.

4) Flowers are expensive considering they'll only be used for a few hours.

We found one shop that was both helpful in giving me alternatives to the pricey and unavailable flowers I loved, and also said that they would work with my budget.  The owner and I have spoken on the phone a few times already and I love her.  I gave them a price point and they came in UNDER it.  The other two florists ranged from $700-1500 OVER Budget.  My choice was simple.  I just can't justify spending an inordinate amount of money on flowers.  I'd rather that money go towards food, booze & music.  I've never been to a wedding and said "oh those flowers aren't big/pretty/expensive enough".

Lauren and Sean's wedding was beautiful.  It was so awesome to see someone I've known since middle school marry the man of her dreams. :) Somewhere along the line we've all grown up!  It's just seemed to happen so quickly!  They had a photobooth which is so, so fun!  Rudy wanted to be original so he did a hand stand inside the booth while I posed holding his legs.  We really enjoyed ourselves there as you can see...

We also got to see our dear friends (and Best Man & Bridesmaid) Jon and Tif.  It's always fun to see them, even for a little while.  We always enjoy our time with them! <3

"I never thought I could love anyone but myself. 

Now I know I can't love anyone but you."

ingrid.michaelson