Thinking ahead but also reflecting back!

The post below is a list, an ever changing, ever evolving list of songs and artists that will be played at our wedding. Some our mine and others are songs that G has always wanted at her wedding. She even knows what she wants us to have our first dance to and I think what song she wants to dance with her father. Some are songs and artist that we have discovered since meeting. I have always wanted to write down these songs so we can hand a piece of paper with request to the DJ or however we decide to handle the music at the wedding. Relax and enjoy! This should be a wild ride taking us all through several decades of music.

Infinite Playlist

KC and The Sunshine Band
Boogie Shoes
Melanie
Brand New Key-Roller Skate Song
Florence and The Machine
Dog Days Are Over
Van Morrison
Brown Eyed Girl
Tupelo Honey
Into the Mystic
The Swell Season
Falling Slowly
Once
Marvin Gaye
Sexual Healing
Old Crow Medicine Show
Wagon Wheel
Rolling Stones
Moonlight Mile
Dave Matthews Band
One Sweet World
Ray LaMontagne
I go all to Pieces
Trouble
Rusted Root
Send Me on My Way
Ben Harper
Steal My Kisses

Friday the 22nd

I rocked this at work today....WOWSER'S

Update on ring purchase

After a long pause I was able to pay another $100 on the ring...don't laugh! OK you can laugh. Its been tough. I also found out that I have to come up with $2K before I can order it. I originally thought it was $500 when actuality its $500 to order it but the $2K to finance it through Wells Fargo. I was also told that once 100% approved I can get back the $2K and finance the whole thing. Soooooo, first I need to come up with that money, get 100% approved and then decide if I want that money back? I thought I was closer than I really am. Oh and the 100% financing begins on November 19 so I have to make moves quick.

Waiting

I can't wait to give G her ring. I love her so much!

New York or Paris (of the South)?

G had always said she wanted to be proposed to in NYC. And live there too, but thats another story. I have convinced her that neither is going to happen. I wish I could say its' one of my elaborate schemes in OPERATION: PROPOSAL but it is not. There is no financial way I could propose in NYC even it I wanted to. If I were going to do this we would have to make several trips because she would be tipped off if we made one trip only, it would be obvious. Not going to happen. So, as I mentioned, the mountains, preferable Asheville is at the top of my list for several reasons:

• G loves the mountains
• its close to home
• I want to propose and get married in NC
• its beautiful

She commented the other day that she would love a proposal in the mountains. This is good news because its probably going to happen. We could go several times before I actually propose and she would never see it coming. This is exactly what I want!

Return to the scene of the crime!

We spent this last weekend in the mountains near Boone. On the way up there (I was alone) I stopped at the Town Tavern to see my friend. Town Tavern was the place where I asked G's parents for their permission to propose to her. It was an interesting time. But unfortunately my friend, the owner, wasn't in til later around 9:00 p.m. I ordered wings and a diet coke. I really didn't think about what happened one month earlier? One funny thing happened though, I asked my server what the difference was between Sirachia and hot wings and she didn't know? Not the best service I have ever had. And once word got back to the owner, he let her have it.

We all (me, G, her parents and her sister and bro-in-law) returned to the Town Tavern on Monday night for a drink before dinner and they were packed.

Appalachian State students + 35 cent wings= $2 bud bottles+ MNF = a crowd.

I briefly thought of the July visit but it didn't last long...

Bottom line, it felt really good to get back there with the parents. It kind of wipes all that grossness I had in July out the window and only leaves the answer I needed...YES, YOU HAVE OUR BLESSING!

Life changer, seriously!

Not much has been going in my world lately. I have had some struggles of late so I have not been able to post much of anything. I also haven't been able to pay any on the ring. But soon enough that will change. For a while my plan was at a standstill and just that, a plan. But the last 24 hours have proved to be a life changer and arguably what was needed to put "the actual plan" in motion. I am feeling good about it and will blog more (and need to) blog more now that I am heading in the right direction.

But alas, I am keeping it real. This is what goes on in the head of a soon to be groom (apparently), we don't always think about the proposal or wedding or what have you. We also have lives to live.

Town Tavern, Boone, NC

Town Tavern is a bar in the picturesque college town of Boone, NC, the home to Appalachian State University. Town Tavern is co-owned by a college friend of G's who I have also gotten to know during the last few years.

Town Tavern is also the place that will also forever be the place where I decided to ask G's parents "for permission to propose to their daughter." Don't ask me why I used those words? I won't be able to answer that question...I don't know why? But I did! There is a lot I woul take back or change this past Saturday in regards to "the question."

It started out as a great day, beautiful even. The weather was awesome! The mountains provided a nice change over the sweltering heat we were experiencing in Charlotte. We decided to meet G's parents in Boone where they were spending the July 4th weekend and I decided this would be the day I  would ask a question that, along with the purchase of an engagement ring was the "beggining" of Operation: Proposal!

We ended up at Town Tavern after spending the morning at the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. We ordered a beer and began to look at menus. I decided once my chance came I would go for it. You see I decided to ask BOTH PARENTS at one time for "permission." I figured, in my both parents are the parents and deserve to be asked at the same time despite protocal of the father usually being the one that is asked. I should have inquired from others and from G's bro-in-law. But you see I am one who does what he feels not what others may expect of me. I am the one that would go back-to-school shopping in the seventh grade with my mother who would say, "look, that boy is wearing it?" and I  would reply, "well, doesn't mean I like it."

So back to Saturday. Once G left the table for the second time and I was alone with the 'rents. I went  for it. It basically consisted of the question from earlier in the post, followed with "I love her" a few moments later.

My request was granted without too much delay but not with the enthusiasm I was expecting. Of course I was expecting the best case scenario--balloons, champagne and hugs--but that didn't happen. It wasn't the opposite either. The moment was cut short as G came back to the table. Throughout the day I was asked questions about my intentions...when, where, etc. I was also given a request of my own...to let them know ahead of time. I understand this and will do my best to oblige.

All and all I feel good that it is over despite not getting the total expected reaction. I may have done this a tad early but I don't always know when I will see them or if it will be a good time when I do. Part of me did it because of the joyous occasion of the 4th, etc. But the specific timing could have been better thought out. I also would have asked the father first and then either let him tell the mother or if he requested, told her. They did asked if the request was between the 3 of us and of course my answer was YES! The last thing I need is this getting out. Secrets do not las long in this family.

I am sure my proposal will be more fulfilling! I have learned that I will need to rehearse my lines prior to its' delivery and not only focus my efforts to planning the when, where and how. Also I will also get some advice and not depend on myself to do something that I have absolutely no experience doing. Some more advice is not to underestimate your nerves when asking the parents or your girlfriends' father this question. You may believe that you aren't the type of person to get skiddish or nervous under critical situations but they come out of nowhere and prompt you to say crazy things, i.e. "permission to propose."
Brian

Perfect Wedding Guide Summer Expo 2010

The Perfect Wedding Guide Summer Expo 2010 is tomorrow at the Hilton Charlotte University Place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. I admit I would go if G could go with me. But she is working. It would be weird going alone. Plus even if she weren't working it would be a hard sell.  Also, what we would encounter may be a bit premature for viewing and may blow our minds (at least mine) at what needs to be done for a wedding day. But may be worth because of the free samples and 3 honeymoon giveaways.

Also included are professionals in the areas of planning, photography, florists, fashion, etc. etc.

Maybe next year?

10 things I want to do....

10 things I want to do......

1. Attend a Protestant worship service in Charleston, South Carolina.
2. Attend a Catholic worship service in Charleston, South Carolina.
3. Throw my parents a 50th Wedding Anniversary party.
4. Get a professional massage at a resort.
5. Eat at EVERY McAlisters Deli restaurant.
6. Pay off the ring.
7. Learn how to (slow) dance.
8. Go deep sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.
9. Travel to a different college campus in the South each Saturday in the fall and watch football games.
10. Learn to share my food at a restaurant at least 75% of the time instead of eating it all myself.

This year is moving fast!

I have an "unofficial" goal of proposing by the end of 2010. Its half way through the year and its moving along rapidly, the year that is. I am struggling with completing what needs to be completed to meet my goal. I still have to ask her parents for permission, pay more towards the ring (which is the toughest since it is basically on hold now) and once those two things are done I have to plan Operation: Engage. I feel like I keep passing up opportunities to ask the 'rents for permission....seeing them a few weeks ago and for a get together at the grandparents house and missing Fathers Day at the grandparents house. I can't afford to pass up any more opportunities to complete this task. Then there is the need to get them alone to ask. I don't want to ask them separately or ask just the father. I wan't to ask both parents.

Then the need for money to get the ring. Don't even want to get into that!

I have also added Bald Head Island, NC into the mix for the proposal place. We were near there this past weekend and I suggested that maybe we come back later this year and make a trip over there for the day (she hasn't been but I have and it would be a possiblity).

Its also getting to the point where everyone in her life (grandmother included) is asking when we are getting engaged....my friends have asked me this in the past but guys do this all the time not expecting that you will actually even get married.

Her cousin's fiance wants to get married in December, close to Christmas...they were just engaged! This shouldn't affect my plans though because I am hoping to propose by the end of November (ring availability). It doesn't seem to be affecting G as far as "they are getting marred and we aren't even engaged yet."

Well, that is what is going on in the mind of a SOON TO BE GROOM!

Asheville?

My initial thoughts have been to propose in Asheville but after reading this story about a women who was struck dead by lightning just before her boyfriend proposed kind of leaves me rethinking the idea? Of course, my plans do not include proposing outdoors or anything but just the thoughts of attempting to do this with "oh yeah, some girl died earlier this year while in town for the same thing" lingering over our vacation.

Funny enough a commercial for Biltmore Estate came on the other night and I commented that we still have to go (we made rough plans to do so last year). We have both been but not together. And G says that my mother said to her that it would be a neat place for me to propose. Don't worry, I wouildn't do this...too cliche. But how funny.

Remembering my sisters wedding

I remember my sisters wedding, I really do. I may not remember all of the details (what she danced to with the groom or with my dad, how long it lasted, what color was this or that)? But I do remember....I was there! I often get razzed by G about why I can't remember those details. On of my defenses is that I was up at 7:00 a..m. after spending all day Friday in the hot sun and playing in waves. It was a 4:00 wedding! I think? Details, details....?? Anyway, for some reason my dad had to be at the church by 11:00 a.m. (my mom and sister were already there) And the only thing I had to eat prior to the reception was 2 small hamburgers from a fast food joint? And prior to eating I had a beer and a glass of champagne. Due to a lack of food on this day I was a lightweight. So lack of sleep and lack of food makes for a tired Brian.

But really by nature, guys aren't going to remember such details (especially if it doesn't directly relate to us...that's just how we are). We don't know how to spell tafida, don't know anything about it and we don't need to. I am interested and a little excited about learning the differences in what wedding planning and preperation means to a bride and groom. I mean its obviously as different as night and day. So this process promises to be no different.

We Will Remember Our Wedding Day

My point is we (the groom) will remember the wedding. But what parts we will remember may be different. Obviously we will remember the nuptials and seeing our bride for the "first time." But we will also remember the time spent with our groomsmen and other friends (we will probably never have them all in the same place ever again), that last minute tie straightening by our father and that look in his eye saying, "welcome aboard son, I'm proud of you." We will remember the reception and how funny it was when aunt Betty slipped on the wet floor. But we will remember!

And just to be sure...remind me to invite someone or even several people that own a video camera!

Another Engagement Story (not mine)

Another call came in last night from G's sister. Their cousin asked his girlfriend of 3 years to marry him. Great, now what? After talking about this for a few minutes, she jokingly (and I say that half-heartedly) said, "you better get on the ball and get a ring." And of course I agree with her but as you know I have a ring, sorta. I picked one out 3 months ago and am making small payments until I need it and then will take out a loan. At that point its inevitable and will happen rather quickly.

How can I keep her at bay until I'm ready? She is a very, very impatient person anyway and then you add in two proposals in a month and now I am behind the eight ball. But I'm really not! I am just in Phase 1 of my plan. Plans this detailed and this important can't be rushed. The irony of it all is that a proposal may be on her mind more than it is mine and I have this freakin blog going on and quite frankly am in control of said proposal.

What should I do?

I can't spill the beans about it or do anything out of the ordinary because she will catch on and I don't want it to be obvious or seem like I am rushing my plan. Oh and to boot, said cousin proposed in Germany. It's no (Paris) France but I would assume it's pretty damn romantic.

Signed,
Need Answers!

Wanted: Sperry Topsider Striper Laceless CVO

                      Sperry Topsider Striper Laceless CVO

Lately I have been wanting a new summer shoe to alternate with my sandals and flips. I've found them! I wasn't sure if I wanted these or Jack Purcell's. I tried them both on today from my new favorite shoe store....Nordstroms. Finally a place that has both so I can try them on together. I was beginning to think I was going to have to purchase one or the other and take them to the other store. Worse...I hadn't been able to find the Sperry's so I thought I was going to have to order them online and possibly return them if they didn't work . I don't like doing that.

After having one on each foot for 5 minutes I chose the Sperry's. They are a lot more comfortable and look a whole lot better. At first I liked the Jack's because of the built in distressed look they offer. But along with that worn in look comes a little off coloring. The Striper's win in the crispy catagory. The color white on the shoe is very crisp (they also come in a faded blue, light blue and red). The Sperry also features a madras piece on the tongue and heel of the shoe. This provides a little blast of color that most deck shoes do not have. In addition, I think the look is authentically classic without shoestrings. It makes for a true deck shoe built for boating and is very distinguished. I can't wait. Soon these shoes will be mine.


                                Converse Jack Purcell CP            

McAlister's Deli

I love McAlister's Deli. Lately, I have been going for lunch once sometimes twice a week. I often go and read a book or look at magazines and just organize my day and my thoughts. Overall just to relax. A couple of times I have gone in consecutive days. Like yesterday and today. Actually today I wasn't alone. JLR and I were running errands before work. She had the day off. Usually she doesn't like to go. She prefers Panera Bread when it comes to salads and sandwiches.

I usually mix it up! Sometimes I will "Be Choosey" and concoct my own sandwich and other times order a ready-made sandwich off the nenu, like a panini. You also get a complimentary pickle and your choice of macaroni and cheese, potatoe salad, chips or fruit. I go to a couple of different locations around town, not to hide my addiction but depending on where I am at the time. Usually I go after hitting the gym. It's a perfect time to relax and eat a healthy meal.

My goal is to patronize all the McAlister's in North and South Carolina at some point. I think there might be around 40 or so of them. So far I have been to 12, I think?

I think my favorite thing about McAlister's is the big cups they give you. I liken them to Starbucks' 20 oz cup. There is just something I like about drinking from them? I used to get the sweet tea (free refill, another plus) but now I have been getting diet coke. Its so refreshing.

I wonder if McAlister's can cater a wedding party? That would be great. At least I know where I will be when I am planning the proposal and wedding (free WiFi).....eating a Brian-made-sandwich and drinking from a big cup with endless refills from McAlister's Deli. Give it a try!

A seriously close call! Actually several calls...

This morning I went to make another payment on the ring. Everytime I make a payment they place the reciept in a nice envelope so I can keep it for my records. I also wanted to show them a couple of rings in the new *In Style magazine that G pointed out to me the other day. One was a Tacori and the other was a Martin Flyer design? She was just showing me the design and I wanted to compare it with the one I had already chosen. They were both identical to the one and the store carries both of them. Actually one of the advertisements was for the store.

Usually when I leave I put the reciept with all my workout gear that I leave in the car. She would never go snooping around in all that stuff.** Well this time I decided in lieu of time that I would just put it back there when I got home. Oh at this point the reciept is in the magazine. So I take back the magazine to her apartment ***(along with some candy and a dvd that I rented for her to watch later) and place it on the coffee table where I found it. I leave.

Once I get to work a few minutes later I started thinking about the reciept and realize I left it in the magazine at the apartment. Of course I bolt hoping to get back before she gets home. This mistake could blow everything. So of course as I am leaving, G calls me. We spoke for a few minutes but she had no idea that I was in the car heading back to her place. I mad sure I got her location and ****ETA so I knew how much time I had. I get there before she does, find the magazine, give the cat a quick shout out and head back to work. Everything is perfect. But just as I am almost back to work she calls me again. I can't pick up I am supposed to be at work not in my car driving? I finally make it back to work (traffic was terrible) and return the call. But to be honest, I won't feel completely safe until she gets home and I know she has settled in.

I need to be more careful so that something like this doesn't happen again. This could have really been disastrous. I remember thinking when I first took the magazine "how would I explain how the magazine got in my car if I forgot to return it in time?"****** Wheww, how lucky am I ? But, like I said, I am still on edge until she gets home and confirms that nothing seems odd or out of place!

*I admit I look through the pages once in a while, sue me!
**It doesn't stink or anything. It's clean. But she has no reason to go back there.
***Chocolate covered dark chocolate, I know! And the movie is Precious. She wants to see it. I don't. I won't be there. Perfect timing.
****ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) not to be confused with GTD (Game Time Decision). GTD is my brain child. Been using it for years.
*****Any ideas?

Have a Mischievous Weekend

Brian

An old read!

I first read The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman 6 years ago. I was single at the time. I think? But I remember thinking that I am going to suggest my next "serious" girlfriend read it so that I know "how to speak to her" using her individual Love Language. It is a very insightful book that really opens your mind about how each one of us percieves love and the love of our partners. You see Chapman discovered through research that everyone has a Love Language or a specific way that love needs to be expressed to them which will "fill their (love) tank."  At the end of the book there is an Assessment that will reveal your Love Language. I had JLR read it about a year and a half ago. Interesting results, to be sure! 

Quality Time

Physical Touch

Gifts

Acts of Service

Words of Affirmation

A new read!

Picked up South of Broad by Pat Conroy today at the book store. I have been looking for a new book to read recently and this looks promising after a few misses during the last few months. The Southern author (born in Atlanta and raised in the Low Country marshes of South Carolina) first began writing books at the age of 25. His best include Lords of Discipline, The Great Santini and The Prince of Tides.

Amy Free Photography

Take a look at Amy Free Photography. She is out of Fayetteville, NC and often works in the Charlotte and Raleigh areas. She specializes in engagements and weddings. Contact her for a quote for your upcoming life event. She has a nack for bringing out the best of people in her photographs. Which is good news for me because at my own admission I am not very photogenic. But I think that Amy could do wanders with even this mug! She is defintely on top of my list as far as photogs go.

Amy says, "My goal is to capture the beauty of life as you know it. My passion is to create images that celebrate life and emotion with a fresh and modern style."

Contact Amy:
amy.noon.free@gmail.com
919.622.1729

Who's Dressing the Groom?

An article in the May/June 2010 Charlotte Living Magazine caught my attention. It is titled Who's Dressing the Groom? Penned by Richard Pattison (RPatz?).

"Weddings are planned entirely around the bride....and they should be! But don't forget the groom on this special day! It's his debut as a newlywed, too. He may never get equal billing to the bride, but some attention must be directed to the groom's wardrobe......"

I agree, the star of the show is the bride. But it is equally important not to forget about the groom on this day. He needs to be well dressed (even complimenting the beautiful bride), be well groomed and relaxed. He should spoil himself during the days leading up to the joyous occasion. I know I plan to.

"And yes, buying the tuxedo is the proper decision. Rented formal wear is designed to fit 'Joe Average,' not Prince Charming. And do you really want the groom wearing a tuxedo that some young buck wore to his high school prom, especially when the bride looks sensational in the dress of her dreams?

I can see how renting a tux can be beneficial for some. It can be cost effective if you do not plan on wearing it again? Or if you want to be completely overstated and fly way below the sartorial radar. I, on the other hand, do not plan on renting. It's not my style. Though I may not wear the outfit "as is" for a long time. Even to the point of "retiring" some of the pieces, the neck wear, socks, belt, tie clip, etc.  I want to offer up some of my own creativity for the special day. Those pictures aren't going anywhere.

               It's great to be a Florida Gator

"Your wedding day may be the most remembered day of your life...it will definetely be the most planned. No matter your style of wedding, focus some attention on the groom. It's a decision you'll always be happy with."

Couldn't have said it better myself!

Have a Happy Wedding Day,

Brian

I would wear this....

This would be cool to have one day!

Great advice

Hello everyone. I was talking to an old friend the other day explaining about last Saturday night's dinner. He told me "that I will know when the right time is (to propose)." He said I will "just feel it and know." Be patient he said. Now that is great advice.

Lumina Clothing Company

Lumina Clothing Company, located in Raleigh, NC is a lifestyle clothing brand specializing in traditional but creative men's tie wear. LCC offers skinny ties (2"), traditional ties (2.75") and narrow ties (3.25"). They also offer 2 different styles of bow ties. The designs are classic styles but have been given a modern makeover. What sets the company apart is its willingness to search for the perfect material and fabrics to ensure a quality garment is made for an individual.

In addition, the newly created Lumina Wedding product line offers the ability for the bride and groom to coordinate their personal styles for the big day. The couple can choose from many different fabrics, whether they be silk, cotton, linen, taffeta, etc. The goal is to make a brides wedding day one of elegance and style. And what better way to accomplish this then to have the groom looking his best.

A creative gent, to be sure.

An article from NY Magazine describes the eclectic style of a Connecticut born prep and aspiring Interior Designers' dorm room at a college in New Jersey. If I had ever lived in a dorm room I can't say this is what I would have done but I definetely would have take some liberty at creating my own little space to suite my needs. I admire the creativity from this young man. As you can see he doesn't sacrifice style over function. I suppose you can't in a college dorm. There is a need for both and he maximizes the space to showcase both of these elements while remaining true to his own individual personality. Beyond the dorm room itself it seems that he has a bright future in design or whatever creative outlet he chooses.

Notice the carpets covering what is probably a rather drab floor

This is the side of the room opposite of the couch

......and a missed opportunity? Part 2

The conversation at dinner went very well. G thought I might propose that night because her family, whom we visited the weekend before planted the idea in her head. Most of our dialogue was about that very subject. And to be quite honest, it would have been a perfect opportunity to do so.

It was very romantic, was our 2 year anniversary and we had a great meal. It was one of those times where, eventhough not planned, had I possesed the ring I would have proposed. But alas, no ring yet. Actually, that would be how I would want to do it. In the moment and somewhat unplanned. But those opportunities only happen once in a while. And this was one of those. But there will be other ones.

I have to admit that I am getting anxious about the possibility of trying to figure out when the best time would be to "pop the question." I am looking forward to creating and organizing (and implementing)....OPERATION: IT'S TIME!

A steak dinner and a missed opportunity? Part 1

We had dinner the other night at George Fine's Beef and Bottle, a Queen City landmark since 1958. One would assume the decor has not changed since, though in my opinion it probably changed in the late 1970's. The steak was the best restaurant steak I have ever had, I say this because my dads steak IS THE BEST STEAK of all time. And speaking of time gone by, my parents continue a time-honored tradition of grilling steaks every Saturday night. They have been doing so for easily 40 years.

Anyway, back to this past Saturday night. We were celebrating our 2 year anny. I will go into detail about dinner, well, because I want to. We started out with lightly crusted fried oysters for our app. They were tremendous, about 10 or so. I admit I ate most of them because G isn't big on oysters or anything fried. We then moved on to our salads. I have never seen anything like this before in my life. They place in front of you a plate of chopped lettuce. Then in the middle of the table on its own plate was a platter plethora bonanza of salad fixings. This included sliced green bell pepper, sliced red onion, sliced radishes, small whole tomatoes and chopped celery. And your choice of homemade dressing. We both chose ranch. An amazing salad. Oh yeah from the get was crackers and spreadable cheese. I am guessing the cheese was homemade too.

OK. Now for the reason the restaurant is called Beef and Bottle. I drank a Sam Adams draft and G drank a perfectly poured glass of cabernet. I didn't catch the name because I was too excited for what was next. I ordered an 8 oz sirloin done medium rare. I enjoy my steak a little tender and juicy but still cooked through. Always have, always will. G ordered a petite filet, about 6 oz. Both steaks include your choice of baked potato, french fries, rice pilaf, onion rings or sweet potatoe. We both ordered the "fully loaded" baked potatoe. Yep! Butter, sour cream, chive and bacon. UMMM! They also serve this piping hot buttered bread upon request. And I requested some to go home with me!

OK, so G talked me into dessert. This wasn't a difficult decision. Although usually I never go for dessert. The server came to the table with several options including blueberry cheesecake and French silk chocolate pie. We decided or should I say G decided to order the apple pie with homemade cinnamon ice cream. I then chimed in and two days later not sure why "and the peanut butter and chocolate cake, please." Don't worry I had one bite and took the rest home. And just in case your wondering, the best steak dinner I have ever had was then the best steak lunch I have ever had.

Kate, engaged?!?

Billy Joel...Pressure

So today, on my way home from the gym, just as I was pulling into my usual post-workout stop at Starbucks. I recieved a call from G, "guess what?" what I said, Kate just go engaged, last night.

Kate WAS the last of the friends not to be either already married or engaged but now G is. What kind of pressure is this. I don't need it. And I am not going to let it get me. I am still going to go at my own pace as planned so I get it right!

Either way, congrats Kate and M!

A Southern Gent Batchelor Party: New Orleans Style

Southern Gent recently enjoyed a buddy's Batchelor Party in New Orleans. Some highlites included dinner at the famed Commanders Palace, a 9 Hole Scramble and a night of college debauchery in the Quarter (not the same college debauchery of a Super Bowl MVP QB). But either way looks like a fun time had by all. And congrats to the Groom!

Today is May 6, 2010

December is roughly 7 months away, January...roughly 8 months? I don't know, just thinking aloud?

Ring Shopping

Today I went looking at rings, actually I went to look at "the ring." Yep, already picked it out....did so back around the middle of February, which is near my birthday. The timing was perfect! Every few weeks I stop by the store and take a look at it. And since I don't need it right now I pay a little bit of money on it. It is a very nice ring if I do say so myself. I think it is exacly what she wants. It's vintage looking with lots of diamonds. Just perfect.

We've talked about rings before and I am always trying to get G into the store to look as some with me but something never fails to prevent it. But its fine, I would rather surprise her with it anyway. I am confident that I have made a good choice. Though its not easy. See, G really and I mean really loves jewerly. She doesn't have this crazyiness about her engagement ring or anything like that but does have a few criteria she wants met.

I actually had lots of fun shopping at different stores and picking out the ring I wanted. It was not something I wanted to take lightly but also didn't want to waste time or have a lot of time pass me by. I am not a last minute kind of guy anyway but who could be (or should be) when talking about a several thousand dollar investment like a wedding ring. I learned about the 4 C's and all that. But the most important thing I learned is to just get what you want. Its forever!

Ode to Cotton Blossoms

There is no comfort like cotton comfort! Check out this great use of cotton blossoms at this wedding in beautiful North Carolina on Southern Wedding Magazine. The use of cotton on the grooms lapel really says relaxed and casual but a nice suit still yells classy. Its a nice change to the normal piece of green that is usually found on wedding garments. And nothing is more Southern than cotton!

J. Crew for the Groom

Beach Wedding

Later that night!

No need to tell the time on this occasion but if i must

Wedding Spread

Let me start by saying I love food. I mean really love food. My day pretty much revolved around food. I plan my day and I plan really well so I can be at the right place at the right time for my next meal or snack. It might even be a sickness. I love all kinds of food. There isn't much I won't eat.

My only request for my "upcoming:" wedding is that I get to pick the food. J can deal with all the other details of the wedding. The flowers, the order of the ceremony, the place, etc. etc. I only want to show up and eat. I mean isn't this what weddings are all about? I wan my guests to eat well. She tells me everyday that her mother chose the food for her sisters wedding 3 years ago. We joke that I will have to "speak to D about this." I am serious I want to be the one to choose the food. Wouldn't all involved want this task to be taken off their plates? Pun intended. I haven't decided exactly what I want to serve at my wedding but here is a good start

fried finger foods to start...and this is BEFORE THE WEDDING CEREMONY

the main course!

and a midnight stack to start the honeymoon off right!

How can I get Urban Meyer to come to my wedding?

This is from the great people over at Masterpiece Weddings posted today with the heading Adventures in Wedding Planning: Kristy and Justin's Wedding!

This is kinda cool....I mean having an outdoor reception. It would have to be a cool night, the weather would have to totally agree. Get a tent covering, a hard wood floor and you can party all night. Last summer, we went to a wedding in the mountains and the ceremony and reception were both outside. It was neat, but kind of dirty. Anyway, they were done on the same land but it was big enough to separate the two. It was cool enough so we weren't too hot. And the walking wasn't so bad. Neither was drinking out of jars. We may or may not have taken some home with us?

Oh, its true! Unfortunately....

I just read an interesting story http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/05/04/1415175/whoa-tiger.html#storylink=omni_popular about men pursuing women and what are the "red flags" of an overly persistent man. And on the flip side, a meek, even scared bloke who may not have a clue as what to do in pursuing his interest. I must say that I have been here before, I mean haven't we all. This article sums up that dating and approaching the opposite sex is really a crap shoot. It may or may not work out. The best we can do is to try and stack the odds in our favor and go for it. No pride allowed. Leave it at the door! I could write tons on this but we will leave it for another time.

Is this really a big deal?

This past weekend I was watching I Love You Man for like the 20th time. What a great movie. I actually purchased it for around $5. What a steal. It ranks up there with a lot of comedy classics of the decade and is THE movie when you think of "bromance comedies." It has all the makings of a fine comedy and is one that I will watch over and over again.

My only question is....about the seating arrangement at a wedding? I know it is important but in the movie the couple actually uses chairs and table to illustrate the process (and hassle) of creating a seating arrangement. I know its' Hollywood but I am sure this actually goes on! It just seems to me that a simple list would make more sense to use instead of arts and crafts. To me, as long as Crazy Aunt Sue doesn't sit next to the carving knife at the roast beef station then it shouldn't matter who sits where.

Great movie though, check it out!