Red Rocks Here We Go

Most couples head out to the coast or water (i.e., lake, or beach) for a wedding. But, for those who chose to go inland, Arizona ain't so bad especially if you're looking at Sedona. This wonderful place is tucked deep within Arizona (near Flagstaff and about 100+ miles from Phoenix). The words tranquil, peaceful, and calm just seem to emanate from the place. One visit there and you will understand why it's a very unique place to tie the knot. Be sure to check out one of the most picturesque places called Cathedral Rocks. Some of the most popular resorts in Red Rock country include the Enchantment Resort, L'Auberge de Sedona, and the Hilton.

Wedding gowns - for doggies

There are gowns for women and girls, but now dog lovers can get a piece of the action. These cute dog dresses are just so unique. Great when having pets as part of the wedding entourage, or as replacements altogether for the ringbearer.

Yummy Chocolate Truffles

Truffles delight. Truffles are decadent. Truffles in moderation can bring joy yet lots of calories. After trying a couple of Lindt chocolate truffles the other day, I am just hooked on these little critters. They're wrapped in little bonbon sized candies, yet teeming with creamy filling. My personal favorites are the hazelnut, mint, and raspberry filling. And at about $7 per bag of 8.5 oz, that's not too bad for something so damn good. Even if you're not planning a wedding party or bridal shower, you've gotta try them. For one thing, they're also cheaper than buying truffles from Godiva.

Let's Go Jelly Beans - Favors and All

Jelly beans from Jelly Belly are the quintessential candy - no matter what age you are. And with the multitude of colors and flavors now available, they make wonderful favors for all kinds of parties. They're also a hit as wedding or bridal shower favors now that you can buy them all in one color such as pink, gree, or blue. As for chocolate lovers, you have not been forgotten. Jelly Belly also has a new line of chocolate jelly beans - to be exact, they're candy coated chocolate in flavors of fudge brownie, cappuccino, cococut, vanilla, and caramel to name a few. Their website also sells Jordan Almonds and other traditional wedding candies, but go for the beans, they're so much more exciting.

Wedding Cheesecakes

I'm not a big fan of cheesecakes, but when I saw these featured on the Food Channel, I think I may be a convert. These delicious cheesecakes are made in a multitude of flavors (i.e., 180 and growing) such as espresso Kahlua, Lemon Mascarpone, and Tiramisu to name a few. Based in Minneapolis, MuddyPaws Cheesecakes, there is nothing muddy at all. And with these delicious creations, it is no wonder why they're often chosen as an alternative to traditional wedding cakes.

Wedding cupcakes - the perfect little cakes

The three-tiered wedding cake has been around for ages. For those looking for a fantastic alternative, wedding cupcakes are it. They are available in just as many flavors and colors as regular cakes. Their smallness makes them ideal as lovely desserts or they can be given out in cute containers for guests to take home as sweet favors.

If you love cupcakes and who doesn't except if you're more of a muffin type, then check out this blog:


Cupcakes Takes the Cake

And for more pics, be sure to check out:

Cakes 4 Fun

Photo cookies - yummy favors

Cookies - whatever shape, size, or flavor, you just gotta love them. What's better than a plain cookie? One with your photo, of course. Okay, a little conceit is okay. Mrs. Beasley's has these cute photo cookies - perfect as favors for a wedding or whatever occasion. All you need is a lovely photo of yourself and your image can be imprinted on a vanilla cookie. Just be sure to eat the cookies within 4-5 weeks because the image starts to fade soon after that.

Nicole's Wedding

Nicole Kidman looked absolutely exquisite in her flowing Balenciega wedding gown. From what I've read, the wedding was performed as a traditional Catholic service. And soon after, reports have said that several of their wedding day mementos have been available for auction on eBay. I just have two questions:

1) How could it be a Catholic service, if she had previously been divorced unless of course, she got an annulment?

2) Why are their precious keepsakes being so quickly sold on eBay?

You gotta wonder, but nevertheless, I'm still happy for Nicole.

If you want to see pics of the wedding, these sites are a must-see:

BBC News
Nicole Kidman Unlimited
Yahoo News

Mojito Mojito Mojito

Summer = hot = need for refreshing drink. There's soda, water, and fruit juice, but sometimes you just need something exotic and different. Mojito is the answer! I tried this drink, while attending an engagement dinner party at an LA restaurant called Ciudad and got hooked on it. Considering that it's got rum in it, though, I decided to search the web for a virgin mojito recipe. So far, these three came up and because they might not be around after a while, I've pasted them below. I haven't tried them, but I surely will:

1) The Recipe from Splenda's website:
http://www.splenda.co.uk/recipes/virgin_mojita.html

Virgin Mojito

This tangy non-alcoholic lime and mint drink is really refreshing on a hot day.

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
2 limes, juiced
4 tsp SPLENDA® Granulated
8 mint leaves, torn
1 tray or bag of ice cubes
300ml (½pt) soda water

Method:
1 Mix together the lime juice, SPLENDA® Granulated and mint leaves, stirring well.
2 Drop the ice cubes into 2 glasses, pour over the lime mixture and top up with tonic or soda water.
3 Serve immediately with a sprig of mint to decorate.

2) The Recipe from Boston.com's website:
http://www.boston.com/dining/recipes/v/virgin_mojito.html

Serves 1. This is a nonalcoholic version of the Cuban classic. It's a great way to use up the jungle of fresh mint that takes over your garden.

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
2 to 3 teaspoons sugar
8 ounces club soda
Ice (for serving)

1. In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, combine the mint leaves, sugar, and a splash of the club soda. Crush them with a spoon or a muddler (a rod with a flattened end), mashing them to release the minty flavor.

2. Add the remaining club soda.

3. Fill a glass with ice cubes, strain in the mint mixture, and add enough of the remaining soda water to fill the glass. Serve at once.

3) The Recipe from Food and Wine's website:
http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/virgin-mojito

Serves one

Ingredients

* 15 mint leaves
* 1 teaspoon raw sugar
* 1 ounce fresh lime juice
* 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup
* Ice
* 4 ounces chilled ginger ale


Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint, sugar, lime juice and Simple Syrup. Add ice, shake well and pour into a highball glass. Top with the ginger ale.

Place your wedding bets?

Place your bets here. No, I'm not talking about horse racing or boxing matches, but marriages to be exact. At Weddingbetting.com, you can decide on how long a couple's marriage is expected to last. While making your wedding announcement online, be careful because your picture may end up as part of a wager. Some make take this website as an offensive play, but if you take things all in good humor, then maybe it's not so bad.

A Beauty Tip for Every Bride and non-Bride

For the past 6 months, I’ve been battling acne. Acne happens in your 30s? Yes, it does. I guess it’s payback time for all those years in high school and college when acne wasn’t a problem. Whether it’s a hormonal or stress thing, I’ve decided to win the war on acne by using two products. They’ve worked for me like a miracle and I hope they work for you as well:



“Neutrogena Transparent Facial Bar, Dry Skin Formula Soap”. This soap worked miracles for me. Costs about $2 bucks at your local drugstore. I’d try the travel size first to test it on your skin. Be sure to test test on your skin first. Try it on your wrist or ankle for any reactions. There is also a regular formula available if you're not prone to dry skin.



The second product that I’ve used in conjunction with the soap is the “Neutrogena Clear Pore Oil-Controlling Astringent, Salicylic Acid Acne Medication.” Costs about $4-5 bucks. It may come across a little strong so be sure to test this oil astringent on your wrist or ankle first. Use only a small amount because it is a little on the strong side because of the salicylic acid content of 2%. After washing your face with the soap, get a cotton ball and wipe some on your face, but avoid your eye area, since the solution is strong. It has a smell like alcohol, but you get used to it.

I’m not a beauty queen and don’t ever think I’ll be one, but there is always beauty inside everyone one of us – no matter what size, shape, or race. Ultimately, we all want to be one, though on our wedding day!

Food Network TV Wedding Show

Seems like this summer... I just can't get enough of wedding shows. The latest one from the Food Network called "Food Network Caters Your Vegas Wedding" is an all out fun to watch program. Coupled with the fact that there is a wedding cake contest (a definite must-see), superb online videos covering everything from planning a shower to selecting favors, and menu ideas, it's definitely one of the more practical shows out there. The nice thing about this program is the site makes it possible for couples to apply.

HGTV At-home weddings

Admittedly, I'm not crafty. Never was and I don't think I'll be crowned at Michael's anytime soon. Nevertheless, there's always room for inspiration especially when planning your wedding. And if you're planning a wedding at home, which is not uncommon, HGTV has a great program on at planning at-home weddings on their Wedding Design on a Dime show. Be sure to checkout their friendly checklist featuring key questions to explore when starting the planning process. There are also some really nice photos of real weddings from a charming lakeside location to a beautiful backyard reception. If you have the luxury of time, their online videos of DIY projects are pretty easy to follow. I especially like the one on making wedding bouquets. Ironically, I also learned that a wedding at home can sometimes cost much more than a wedding set in a location, so one must plan carefully.

A Wedding Trousseau for Modern Times

During the Victorian Times, a woman of society that was preparing to get married would often have a bridal trousseau assembled before her wedding day. It would contain an array of bridal accessories made with fancy lace and embroidery, jewelry, and elegant embroidered linens for the home to name a few items. While not everyone can afford to hire a professional seamstress adept in the fine art of embroidery and lace, it is still a wonderful experience to put together a bridal trousseau - even in modern times. For example, a set of monogrammed towels, hankies, table napkins, and a beautifully embroidered shawl or bag can make up a wonderful trousseau, which are also items that can be given as bridal shower gifts.

Pocket Watches - Revived

There is a sense of classic coolness that comes with owning a pocket watch - be it in sterling silver, gold, or platinum (i.e., 95% platinum). While not as popular and certainly not as trendy as a wrist watch, pocket watches are the perfect gifts for that bestman with an affinity for anything vintage. It is also ideal for the man in your life who may seem to have it all. And of course, don't forget, Dad - it's a great Father's Day gift, too!

Platinum on the cheap - the new platinum?

That platinum engagement or wedding ring may not be all what it's cut out to be. It appears that a new platinum alloy called 585 platinum has caused quite a stir in the jewelry industry. You could call it a battle of pure vs. chemically engineered alloy as jewelry makers and sellers alike are mixed as to what can now be branded and labeled as being platinum. Considering that 585 platinum jewelry consists of 58.5% platinum and traditional platinum is said to have 95% platinum metal, I guess you just have to start approaching the same way as gold as in 24K, 18K, 14K, or 12K. In the end, it is really an oxymoronic label (i.e., 585 platinum). How about mass luxury? Do you see the semblance? What do you think?

Get your wedding stamps

Nowadays it seems like email has replaced the age old tradition of letter writing through snail mail. While the convenience of email is certainly invaluable, you have to appreciate a lovely hand written every once in a while. Whether it's on a beautiful greeting card, monogrammed stationery, or on a homemade cut-out card, a letter written without the help of a word processor always lends itself to realizing thoughts and words more sincerely and deeply. For this, a couple of real nice stamps have come out from US Postal called "wedding stamps." Elegant and simple - these nice stamps would make any philatelist bride and groom happy! At $0.39 each, what a fab find.

Bridezillas

I wish we had access to the WE channel. They have an ongoing program called Bridezillas featuring an account of a real-life brides and their quest to have the perfect wedding. It's always fun from an outsider's perspective to see how brides cope with the challenges of making their special day truly unforgettable. Makes you just want to head out to Vegas and say "I do."

Can u say Tiramisu - Wedding Cake?

Everybody has different tastes and preferences when it comes to wedding cakes, but what do you do if the groom wants chocolate and the bride wants vanilla? If you're like me, you probably want to have both chocolate and vanilla on the cake, right? But what if you just cannot decide? The answer: a tiramisu cake. You can get the richness of chocolate and creaminess of vanilla. Check out this unique tiramisu wedding cake recipe from epicurious.com. It looks so yummy! I want one!

Crowing Glory - Wedding Tiaras

While not everyone has ties to the royalty, the next best thing to "feeling" like one is on your wedding day. More specificially, I'm taking about having a diamond encrusted tiara and being the envy of all your bridesmaids. If money were no object (i.e., Daddy's footin' the bill), or you're a bride with a big pocketbook and of course, a rich fiance, then a visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum's tiara exhibition in the UK might be worth it. And for the rest of us, perhaps an online visit might provide some inspiration for finding a copycat or at least an "inspired" version.

Flip flops - the new craze?

Summer is here and everyone is going nuts over flip flops. Funny that they've been around since the 60s. But, of course, anything old has a strange way of making it back in a "new" way. Take these flips flops with pink rhinestones, or if you want your slippers personalized, then you may want to try them out! As for something plain, I recommend just going barefoot!

"Brides gone wild" - they say?

In the "Personal Journal" section of the Wall Street Journal, an article called Brides Gone Wild covering wedding photography seemed entirely mundane up until I started reading it in more detail. As it seems, some brides are now having their special day captured in a more risque style. I'm not talking full blown nudity, but to be photographed in a bustier and heels, hours before your wedding is a bit too much for me. When you're old and gray, I guess looking at how sexy one was on their wedding day is a form of twisted vanity.

My shoe shopping trip #1 - a review

A little bit of shoe shopping can just turn me nuts. While at Nordstrom's, I saw the funniest design for a shoe - a bridal shoe to be exact. For $89.95, you can get the following:

- 4 inch heel
- A Leather upper/synthetic lining/rubber sole.
- Braided leather straps
- Step-in style
- Comes in either black, silver, or white





But, if you are like me and prefer something simple and subtle, you would probably be happier with this satin sling back shoe for a little more money - about $94. It has:

- a satin finish
- A rhinestone strap
- about 2" heel

Do people still wear cufflinks?

Hmm. I'm not sure if these are very popular even for weddings nowadays, but I thought these were the cutest ones around - shaped like little bow ties.

Yahoo Answers

I was browsing around the web and stumbled upon Yahoo Answers. Though there are some interesting questions and answers, I do wonder how valid or factual is the information being provided. I guess you can't always rely on one source to get your answers. This is probably why Yahoo has Ask Yahoo! for those questions that need reliable answers. I also like Yahooligans, which is something Google doesn't offer.

Fondant - Oui Oui

Fondant. Sounds like fondue, but sure doesn't taste the same. I didn't know what it was till I tried during cake tasting trip at a local bakery. One of the sample cakes was a small butter cream mocha icing with fondant. My first taste of it seemed like I was taking a spoonful of sugar. It was so sweet that the cake itself didn't even need the butter cream icing. While the fineness of the icing appeared like a pretty porcelain finish, the looks can be deceiving if you're not a fan of ultra sweet stuff. Though it's not my wedding, if given a choice, I'd rather choose buttercream as cake icing instead of fondant simply because I want to taste the cake without getting a sugar slap at the icing.

Google Notebook - nifty idea

I have decided to be a bit helpful for the coming wedding. In an effort to help them plan out the details, we've set up a Google Notebook. It's accessible from virtually anywhere and it allows you to achieve a virtually paperless desk. Okay, maybe not so paperless, but still worthy of saving a couple of trees and precious time. Since finding anything on the web using places like Google or yahoo has become a "needle in the haystack" activity, we decided to collect our findings and share them with the world. It's a work in progress so it may be in dire need of some organzation. Check the wedding notebook we started out!

Oh June!

June is right around the corner and so is it high time to go on a diet. If I want to make it the upcoming wedding without looking like a Krispy Kreme donut. For the most part, juggling work and excercise is a massive undertaking that requires a lifestyle change. I mean shift to be more exact. Likewise, I think the first place where I can start is by eating right. So, I'm now searching for better ways to manage my diet. That red strap dress might be a distance dream unless I seriously attack this problem.



Incidentally, a friend of mine said that people nowadays are giving out donuts as favors or as an alternative wedding cake for their wedding. Now, call me old-fashioned, or queer if you want to, but honestly, do you want your wedding to be remembered with a donut? Hmm. Oh yeah, I remember the rainbow sprinkled donut with chocolate - they were really special? Ok., I am not donut bashing. Heck, donuts are great with cofee, but at a wedding party?

Sew Away

This weekend will be spent learning how to sew. My first attempt at sewing will be attaching a button to my favorite shirt. Okay. It is act of desperation, but sooner or later we gotta learn how to sew. There is a great site that I came across, which covers all sorts of sewing projects. Whether you plan to make your own veil or sew a stuffed animal for a baby, it has lots of fun stuff to follow!

A Princess for Every Bride

While not every bride can be as glamorously dressed as Grace Kelly when she married Prince Rainier of Monaco, I think every now and then it is nice to be inspired by her grace and beauty. It is sure a far cry from where she was born in Philly!

Really amazing commerical

My Mom recently sent me an email that was forwarded to her by a cousin of hers. This is quite an amazing movie clip of a Honda commerical in the UK. Here is the clip uRL:

http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/honda.php

Enjoy!

Probate gone awry

When an ex-stripper marries an old Texas oil billionaire, you'd think that the Supreme Court would have better sense, but times have certainly changed. It appears that the court may rule in her favor, thus allowing her a piece of the pie of her late husband's fortune. What a crazy world!

A Cool Wedding Blog

I came across this blog while searching the web for wedding blogs - like a typical Friday breakfast session - I'm just surfing the web! ANyways, I think these guys are doing something really unique by raising money for their honeymoon in Hawaii. You can also find a neat journal of how their wedding planning is going so far.

Flasks and Money Clips

A friend of mine was recently shopping around for some groomsmen gifts. She was wondering if item such as money clips and flasks are still appropriate gifts for men her age - around 25. They do come in some stylish forms and designs, but a money clip is a money clip, and a flask is a flask.

While I don't think these products are without practical purpose, I do wonder if men especially young men like to carry around a flask? It just had me seeing visions of DOMs or alcoholics. And what about money clips? Well, I can see the practical side if you carry around large wads of cash that can't fit your wallet, but most guys nowadays use the card unless you're a casino-going Sin city high roller.

Paradise

In my usual Sunday fashion, I generally spend it by preparing for the coming week (e.g., laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping) or I sit around home doing nothing. However, yesterday I decided to just do the latter and join the ranks of mouse potatoes – munching on chips and surfing the web. Ain’t good for my thighs, but what the heck. Anyways, I came across this really awesome looking hotel in Morocco called the Kasbah Tamadot – now owned by Sir Richard Branson. While the place is located on the outskirts of Morocco and if you are willing to brave the countryside, perhaps it might be worth it, but for me, I just choose to oogle at its beauty. Sure looks like an exciting and romantic place for a honeymoon.

My First Invitation to a Wedding in 06'

Yes. This summer I finally got invited to my future sister in law's wedding. While I won't be a member of the wedding party, attending a wedding is always a perfect opportunity to people watch. Probably one of the best parts of a wedding is finding out more about other people and trying not to let other people know about you. It's as if you have to play a sort of masquerade at events like this because inevitably gossips and rumors start to linger long after the wedding. You'd think people would remember how beautiful the wedding was, of course, but somehow, gossip just seems to stay around much much longer. For example, who married whom, so and so gained 10 pounds, or did you see her new boyfriend? Yeah, these are typical psot-wedding tidbits you normally pick up in our family! Certainly give a new name to wedding gossip!

A Pocketbook? From huh to duh...

I had an interesting conversation today with an elderly lady in the elevator. It all started when I got into the elevator and pressed the button for my floor. With the usual polite smile you give people in the elevator that don’t look threatening or like a stalker, I smiled to her casually. She then made a very puzzling comment and said that you have a very unique pocketbook. Okay, I don’t quite know what she means, but when I was in school, a pocketbook was a small book, right? Well, I guess I must have missed out on the third definition of the word: a purse!

Who would’ve known a pocketbook is also called a purse? Was the lingo they used back in the 50s or 60s? Anyways, I didn’t want to offend her or question what she was referring to so I just smiled and said “thank you” – while scratching my head and wondering what the heck she meant. Now I know better! I guess it’s kind of like saying “pop” when you’re in Michigan, and soda when you’re in San Diego!

Beautiful Web

Have you met a rude person today, while at the mall, restaurant, or even just standing in the hallway waiting for the elevator? Rudeness. It's all around, and this weekend I realized why the Internet is so beautiful. Mainly, it allows you to cut through the crap of impolite people you meet while browsing at the video store. One of the first things I will be trying out is the service from Netflix, which allows you to rent DVDs through mail instead of going to the video store.

Let's Cook Italian!

To add excitement to my life, I've decided to learn how to cook Italian food. Perhaps I won't end up as a chef, but I am now cooking Italian at home. For inspiration, I have looked to the show "Every Italian" with Giada De Laurentiis. The recipes look so good and they don't look difficult.

Make a Wish

There are many things in life that we all wish for. Some wish for wealth and others wish for peace. while we all know that wishes are just wishes, making them a reality is also a wish within itself. Now, your're asking: what's the point, right? Well, when you don't wish for something at all, life just seems as if there is nothing hopeful to wish for. So,if one day you should bump into Aladdin's Lamp, what would you wish for?

T-minus 4 hours till...

I'm web gazing at the moment when I stumbled on Froogle - the comparison shopping site from Google. Being that Easter is coming up soon, I was searching for chocolate bunny mold pans. It's actually a nifty tool and if you're a lazy web surfer like me, it give you lots of pictures and I like pictures!

The Immigrants - the Legal Ones who waited

The debate on regulating immigration has certainly sparked criticism and protest from many minority groups. While I feel for the many poor people that have entered the US illegally, I am deeply divided over the issue largely because I have many friends who have been separated from their loved ones. These are the people who have stuck to the rules - often waiting for years to be with a father or sister who has sponsored them to be able to come to the US. It is these people who are unheard because they have tried to do things the right way in gaining a green card and thus acquiring citizenship in the country. One of my friends had a brother who had to stay in his home country of India, while his parents filed their paper to sponsor him as a family member. Why aren't these same people coming out and protesting when they are the ones who have stood in line the longest - not cut across?

Going Nuts

This Sunday I:

- Ate a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup - a pair in one pack so that makes 2

- Had Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream - Dublin Mudslide - sinfully delicious ice cream with bits of chocolate chip cookies, Irish liqueur, and swirls of fudge with a hint of coffee - OMG - this stuff rocks!

- Ate a salad for lunch - to offset it all:)

It was nuts...but it was good! Since tomorrow is Monday again, I'm back to my diet:)

My Friday Post

On a typical Friday like today, I am just elated with joy that the weekend is finally here. I don't know why I feel this way as there is a Friday every day of the week. Could it be that it has finally stopped raining here in LA and the afternoons just seem to exhibit sunlight drawing me to spend a weekend biking around the pier at Long Beach? Or, is it because this week I just met more idiots at work than normal? Nah, it's probably more because I just want to forget work - even just for 1.5 days because by Sunday afternoon, the weekend is already over. Your mind is preparing for Monday as you set the table for dinner, put the laundry away, or plan the agenda for the week. Maybe I should prefer Thursday instead of Fridays because most of us already shutdown for the weekend by noon on Friday anyways!

Honey and Moon

Do all people take honeymoons nowadays? I mean is it something that every newly married couple has the luxury of spending time away from work? Admittedly, I didn't go on a honeymoon b/c we were just too darn busy in our careers. So, when I see couples go to places like Hawaii or Cancun, I would consider them very lucky. I can't say much, though, for the guys that go on a cruise ship for their honeymoon considering how many mishaps have happened at sea. Also, I heard that when you are on a cruise ship, dinner is made on an assigned seating basis - sounds a bit like pre-school.

So, did I go on a honeymoon? In the end, we eventually went on a week long trip to Sedona, which was very nice.

Kiddie Plate, Pls.

Yesterday, I ran for 10 minutes. Not from excercise, but from rushing to the post office. Then I realized that were parts of my body that were bouncing, which did not bounce before I got married. Scary thought...So, for dinner, I decided that the era of super-sizing is over - at least for me. It's now kiddie-sizing. That is, I now order the kiddie meal whenever available. For starters, I had the Kid's Meal plate for dinner at Panda Express. They give you just the right portions. When you compare the adult with the kiddie plate, you'll be utterly shocked to realize the amount of carbs that you load up when ordering the regular/adult plate. This makes a great "pre-wedding diet" or even "post-baby" diet, I guess...

Wishing all bloggers!

Error correction - there's supposed to be an apostrophe above between "k" and "s". Oops...

For St. Patrick's Day, I thought I'd educate myself about this special day beyond just associating it with wearing green at work. Okay. Here it is:

Famour Irish Beer - Guinness - strong, but good

Irish Liqueur - Bailey's goes great with coffee and ice cream

Ireland is a beautiful country with a spectacular countryside - great for biking and picnics!

University of Notre Dame - Home of the Fighting Irish - great football team - perhaps one day they'll make it to the Rose Bowl again

Irish wedding traditions are marked by their own distinct customs and practices. There is an interesting book available by Bridget Haggerty.

Oh Ryan's Potato Candy - tasty treats made of coconut and cinnamon to remember the potato famine.

Have a Heart

Since last Christmas, I have known at least 3 people who have had heart attacks. All of whom range in age from 45 to 55. While I am still young, news like this makes me realize that everyday our hearts are subjected to all kinds of stress. While we certainly don't go through traumatic experiences on a daily basis, it turns out that a broken heart or ""stress cardiomyopathy" can result from stress and trauma due to great emotional pain caused by a loved one. I also read recently, that spouses who fight a lot can result in suffering from hardened arteries!

When is it too late for the clock?

Okay, I recently had this big argument with my sister in law about when is it the "right" age to have a baby. She, having just gotten married at the age of 28, got pregnant. She said that she was really afraid of having a baby well into her 30s because most women have their children well before they hit 35. I argued that it's pretty common for many women especially those concentrating on their careers to delay having a baby at all. While it is still very common for women to have their first child before 35, I told her why should those who plan to have a kid later in life, be looked upon strangely. Or, put it more bluntly, have some "problem" with fertility. Granted, we all have a finite amount of eggs in our basket, but isn't 34 still a viable age to have a child, or is it too late? When is the right age, then? 28, 32, or 34?

Yummy Easter Treat?

Alas, it is finally March, the beginning of Lent and a prelude to Easter. Now, I'm no cheery Easter bunny, but when I started looking at what goodies to have for my Easter lunch, I found one particular product that caught my attention. Recently, many chocolate manufacturers have started making chocolate crosses or crucifixes. Companies like Russel Stover Chocolates say that these are very popular among the Hispanic markets. While I do know that Hispanics love chocolate, I also do know that many Hispanics are also Catholics, and I don't think they would be lovin' it. I myself, while not religious by any standard, would think that it would be a sacrilege to be eating a chocolate cross even it is made with the finest cocoa. I would just find it deeply strange to be eating a cross-shaped piece of chocolate.

Married at 6?

There are some stories that you hear about on the news, which don't get your attention because it's the same old story - murder, politics, war, etc. But, when I heard about this funny story today, I just had to tune in to this the news clip about a couple that had gotten married when they were 6 during a play, and then really got married at the age of 22. I think it's a cute story!

Olympics - Closing Ceremony

I watching the closing ceremonies on Sunday night and for the most part, it had the usual fanfare and glitz. Bocelli, fireworks, and dancing were beautiful, but what was up with the scene when women of all ages dressed in what appeared to be wedding gowns, started walking on stage with a calla lily-looking torch light? I found this a bit weird. Was I watching the 2006 closing ceremony or a scene out of Logan's run or a moonies mass wedding?

Wondering if, why, how

So my quest to overcoming shyness. For one, I've made an attempt at least to smile back when somebody enters the elevator. I even think this is easier than I thought. What I do wonder is how do some people manage to be so open and outspoken without even trying? It's tough being introvert in an extrovert world.

Be Loved!

Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.

- Aristotle

Trends trends trends

Trends - they are everywhere. You hear about them all the time whether they are wedding trends, fashion trends, or diet trends. Today I realized that what makes people follow them is the mere fact that they are trends. Besides, a trend would not be a trend unless there is a following. More importantly, though, I ask myself, why should I follow a trend. I mean when a magazine for example like Brides' magazine says that the latest trend in weddings is for brides to have this and that at their wedding. I just don't find these things compelling enough for me to want to follow them. When I go shopping, I don't necessarily look out for what's trendy, but rather what is practical fo me and my wallet!

Check out these so-called wedding trends and see if you agreee!

Top 10 Wedding Trends for 2006

The Wedding Channel 2004 Wedding Trends

Wedding Trends from FoxNews

Just Thinking

Lately, I've been wondering a lot. Reflecting on what I can do better this year so that I can be a better person. So, I've decided to take small steps towards overcoming certain things. One of which is being more assertive. I don't know whether this was a way of being brought up or whether it's just my personality, but I believe it's time that I became a bit more assertive. While I don't consider myself a door mat, I do hope to change this aspect of myself. We'll see how it goes this week. I also took the liberty of finding some help on the web - from the BBC website.

System broke?

I was at the ob/gyn's office in LA with my sister-in-law who recently got pregnant. One of the key questions and concerns of my s.i.l was that if her doctor was going to be one at the delivery room. Why'd she ask? Well, she heard stories that it is common for women's ob/gyn's not to be the one who are actually deliverying your baby unless there is ample reason for them to be there. Typically, her doctor said that you will be delivered by whoever is on duty at the time you enter the hospital and go into labor. Her doctor also said that "doctors have lives, too, so we cannot guarantee that we will always be there." I left the doctor's offic wondering if this is really how the "system" works or are women just accepting this answer without demanding what they want. I wouldn't want some stranger deliverying my baby especially if something goes wrong. What are we to do?

Rudeness - nature or nurture?

I was "people watching" at the mall the other day when I noticed a mother say "shut up" to her son. My first reaction was to think what could be so bad that would warrant her to say that. Then I realized that perhaps her own mother or father probably talked to her in that same manner. It really disgusts me because when you look at the whole thing, there are just some people who don't deserve to have children when there are so many misguided kids in this world. When parents are too busy with their social life, too involved in their career, or too busy shopping at the mall, that taking care of their kids becomes somewhat of a burden. Kids only emulate what they see in this world. It is no wonder that kids these days are so rude and impolite - blame it on their parents! If you want to have good kids, it's starts by people looking at themselves and changing for the better.

New Day - A New Year?

On the last day of the year, most people are thinking of their New Year's resolutions and the year ahead. But, how many choose to reflect on this year without an unrealistic expectation of what's in store next year. Naturally, a new year brings about the opportunity for change, however, shouldn't it be something you try to do everyday not just at the change of the year? There are people who say that in the new year, they will start to work out, be organized, go do something good for the community, which is perfectly fine, but we should be reminded to do these things everyday not next year or tomorrow, but today. That's why I choose to say "Happy New Day" - may every day be as good as the one before and next...

Regifting Ideas for 2005

We all give and receive gifts. There are some though that you know you can do without. But, nobody will know that you gift is a regift. Just be sure to repack it in some nice wrapping.

1) A Bag of Pistachios

2) Can of Caramel Popcorn

3) Fruitcake

4) A can of chocolate pretzels

5) Box of guest hand soaps

6) A trivet

7) Napkin rings

8) Silver bottle stoppers - they are terrible things to use on a good bottle of wine

9) Glass candy bowls

10) Napkin holders

Gift Ideas for Bloggers from Dahlia

This Christmas Season, I've decided to share a little something with my fellow bloggers. While giving presents would certainly be great, I think this would be even better. 5 gift ideas and stocking stuffers for bloggers:

1) Herman Miller Aeron Chairs

I call these the Grand Piano of Chairs. These are just about the most comfortable chairs around. If you are petite, they have a size just for us dwarflings. I can sit in this chair for 8 hours straight. Okay, maybe not 'cuz I'd have to eat and go to the bathroom. If you can afford one or find one at a discount, this is the chair to buy. Prices vary anywhere from $200 and upwards of $2000.

2) Pillowstep MicroTerry Clog from Isotoner

I don't have a foot fetish. Honestly, I don't, but this slipper is so comfortable - your feet or your wife's feet will be very happy. Price $18

3) Terra Frites
Every blogger has to have some munchies and this is the one I crave all the time. They may not be available at all groceries, but you may be able to find them at places similar to Whole Foods or Wild Oats. IF you're looking for low sodium and "healthier" snacks, this may not be to your liking; however, Terra Chips also offers other snacks made with olive oil.

4) Phone Head Sets

When I blog, sometimes I get a call. Avoid a stiff neck and get a head set! Price vary, but if you're looking for something comfortable, try the one from Plantronics.

5) Watch a good movie or get gift certificates to a movie

Okay. I know blogging is fun, but a good movie is also a great way to get out and spend time with family and friends. This December I hope to watch the movie: Syriana. Before you head out, I suggest going to the movie review site of "Rotten Tomatoes".

It's Friday!

I know I'm goofing off right now, but head is on Friday mode already.

Your Blog Should Be Yellow

You're a cheerful, upbeat blogger who tends to make everyone laugh. You are a great storyteller, and the first to post the latest funny link. You're also friendly and welcoming to everyone who comments on your blog.

What Color Should Your Blog or Journal Be?

Perflebrity - Holiday Gift #1?

A celebrity in a bottle? Lately, more and more celebrities are rushing to come up with their own brand of parfum as wear a celebrity scent is the latest trend. Whether its a Britney Spears fragrance called "Curios", Spirit from Antonio Banderas, or "Lovely" from Sarah Jessica Parker, "Still" by Jennifer Lopez. The list goes on and on and the "perflebrity" race continues. Many people wear perfume for various reasons ranging from its allure to its magical ability to make one feel like a star. But, do consumers really want to "wear" a perfume that embodies the image of a successful icon or celebrity? And with the holiday/Christmas season upon us, do you really want to have a celebrity perfume bottle as a gift?

What season do you call it?

I was at the mall the other day and stumbled into a Hallmark shop to browse for cards. Like most people, I have come to associate December with the word "Christmas", but this year, it seems like I don't know what to say to people when you have so many varied forms of greeting people. You have probably heard of it all, but is it about finding the most politically correct phrase to use or do you just say what comes to the mind naturally. Quite frankly, I used to think "Merry Christmas" was fine, however, nowadays, you hear "Happy Holidays", "Season's Greetings", and other greetings which really don't give much definition and meaning. What do you think? What kind of "card" can encompass all of that? Would it be so offensive if you used the word "Christmas"?

Holiday Breakups

Lately, I've been hearing news stories of countless celebrity breakups from the divorce of Christina Applegate to the calling off the wedding of Nicole Ritchie. For what may seem like a trend is just normal by all standards for just as many people breakup, the same might be said as to the number of people who get engaged during the holidays. Is it the allure and romance associated with the holidays that gets people all crazy? Perhaps it is the romantic sentiment, the snow, and the spirit of giving that might explain things.

When you love someone - set them free?

When you love someone, you do anything to make sure that they are safe and protected. Whether your are mother, father, husband, or wife, there will always be somebody that you would want to ensure is safe. But, when do you draw the line in sheltering a person from the harsh realities of the world. For instance, as a mother, how do you raise your kids so that they learn to defend themselves from the insulting officemate or class bully? While we all want to protect the people we love, I find that one of the challenges to raising kids is knowing when to let go. We all want to raise children that are polite and courteous, however, do parents come short when teaching kids how to be assertive? Is assertiveness something that you just learn from everyday life? Do you assert yourself all the time or do you have to pick when to be assertive?

Split up - official

This Thanksgiving I heard that Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey are separating. While I know that they are really young and just got married less than 2 years ago, this is another example of how many people rush into marriage. It is really indicative of our times. If only people would learn.

What it means to be unique?

In less than 2 days, Thanksgiving will be here, which only signals the coming of the holiday season. This means hitting the retail pavement in search of presents for friends and relatives, etc. Like many people, I want to find gifts that are unique - whether it is handmade or not just as long as it has some unique quality that shows some careful thought was placed into its purchase. Yes, it is idealistic, but this is where the problem lies. Now more than ever, the word "unique" has been so overused by retailers alike that the consumer is often left with so-called "unique" choices that are really much the same. Isn't unique defined by being one of a kind? Because "unique" is no longer "unique" - the word itself has become trite. With this mind, this coming holiday season, I've decided to gather your ideas on what defines a unique gift, especially if it is for a special person in one's life like a parent or spouse. Your ideas are welcomed!

Got me thinking

Is there really such a thing as soul mate? There are some people who marry; believing that the person they are with is their soul mate. This is the individual they have been waiting for their whole life. One that seems to be yin in the yang. But, is it really possible?

Kidnapped, Shot, and Getting Hitched

We usually hear of victims, that have have been kidnapped and shot, who forgive their captors, but rarely do we find one that has decided to marry their captors. Bizarre, but true. In what appears to be an odd mix between forgiveness, love, and a dose of Stockholm Syndrome. Tina Marie Stebbins has decided to marry her longtime boyfried - Christian Leroy Lindblad who had previously shot her and threatened her kids. While little is revealed in the news about the exact circumstances about why he shot her in the first place, don't you think love has its limits particularly in these kind of situations? Isn't there some form of resentment that comes about?

From Princess to Miss - A Royal to Commoner Wedding

Every once in a while, you hear a story of a commoner marrying into royalty. We look to England for the tumultuous marriage of Princess Di and Princess Charles, and then we hop on down to Spain for the not to distant and extravagant wedding of Prince Felipe and Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, and then up to Denmark where Prince Frederik nearly two years ago married Australian-born Mary Elizabeth Donaldson. We all know that commoners marrying into royalty gain significant rewards. One of them obviously is the attainment or assignment of an official title - that being “princess” most of the time. But, how often do we hear of a member of the royalty marrying a commoner and losing their title? Not very often. The last time I read about such stories was when King Edward VIII married American, Wallis Simpson back in 1937 – giving up his title and duties as king. Today we find a similar story, but not one as drastic as King Edward VIII who left his title of King. Princess Sayako of Japan marries a commoner and will be joining the rank of the commoner soon. Besides giving up her title, she will have to "adjust" to a new way of life. Maybe even some cultural shock? Hmm. I guess this means she will to do ordinary things like grocery shopping and driving a car. Yet, with a $1.2M dowry from the state, that ain't too shabby, either! Yeah, it sounds romantic when a prince or princess marries a commoner for love, but c'mon how bad could it be marrying into royalty and having all of those responsibilities like attending charity teas and soirees. I wonder what it would be like? Can you imagine that?

From BBC website:



Technorati tags: Wedding - Marriage - Royalty


** I learned about these nifty Technorati Tags from Bill's blog at Code, Code World.

Wedding Fete

In ancient China, foot binding used to be customary for women of wealth and nobility – many years before getting married. It is a painful process of binding the feet in order to stop it from growing. The typical age for foot binding began as early as 4 or 5. Popular during the Tang Dynasty, the practice was believed to have been inspired by the beauty and glamour associated with concubines that performed for the emperor. Large footed women were considered ugly and often poor because only the rich could afford foot binding. Being petite footed allowed women to wear dainty narrow shoes – not for walking, but entirely for aesthetic reasons, since these women often could not walk on their own anymore. Many of these women’s feet only grew to about 4 inches at the most. If you take a look at some examples of these shoes, it’s quite uncanny at how their “pointedness” resembles many wedding shoes and even ordinary fashion footwear in modern times. See what I mean:



These pointy tipped shoes are typically so thin on the front of the shoe that it takes an extraordinary individual with super narrow and thin feet to be able to fit into these shoes. While pointy shoes have certainly passed that of having to bind one’s feet, they still remain entirely impractical for most women.

Ancient China – an example from Frank H. McClung Museum · University of Tennessee - exhibit on foot binding

Big Bird wouldn't be Happy

I was watching the Discovery Channel's documentary on Bird Flu. Boy, that freaked me out. While I don't want to be an alarmist, this disease is really really serious.

If you watched the show, what was most bothersome was seeing street vendors slaughter live chickens in an open market. When you live in the US, you never see things like that because when we buy chicken they come in nicely packaged containers. The only thing we have to worry about is cooking the damn thing thoroughly and cleaning up afterwards, which is hardly difficult except when wiping the counter with lysol to prevent salmonella. Since it is only a matter of time when the disease hits the US, I'm a bit disturbed that there is no massive effort to prevent the disease from hitting pandemic levels. I can't imagine how families will deal with this disease if one had to choose between saving a spouse, child, or parent, since drugs and vaccines are in such short supply. All in all, this has really made me question whether I'd still eat chicken! I would certainly have second thoughts about eating it at a party or wedding, or any other gathering.



Get the facts on bird flu at:

CDC information

If you want to watch the program on Discovery Channel, here are the showtimes:

TP

I had a great conversation with my doctor the other day. Nope. It wasn't about my health - ironically. But, it was about the tackiest products currently available on the wedding market. Since my doctor recently got engaged, she told me that while looking around the web for some reception items, the funniest and tackiest item she came across was wedding guest toilet paper. Who would've thought that they would be a hit, but somebody out there is laughing all the way to the bank?

Campaign for Happiness

Somewhere on a daily basis, there is a campaign always going on. Whether it is a campaign for peace, a campaign against AIDS, a campaign for war, a campaign against war, or a campaign to fight breast cancer. While every campaign focuses on fighting for something, why not have a campaign purely for happiness. After all, there is always something to be happy about! So today, I, me, myself. I am starting the campaign for happiness with my new little graphic. Feel free to grab it and spread happiness - just for the sake of it!

Awkard times

When couples decide to split up, separate, or divorce, there is usually a friend or relative to turn to when things go wrong. This is only natural, of course. But, as a friend or relative, how is one to feel if you find out one day that your closest friend, sister, or cousin has decided to split up, but only for them to get back together again? At first, you'd think that the split would be a positive thing for them, but how are you supposed to feel if you find out that they have decided NOT to split up anymore. I believe it becomes a personal experience for oneself when you support a person through an emotionally difficult experience whether negative or positive. Just as you'd be happy for somebody just about to get married at their wedding, the same can probably be said in a divorce. You'd feel worried for them as you help a friend or relative cope through a tough time. Nevertheless, I still don't know what to say to one of my friends who recently said they were divorcing and are now getting back together. What do you say when you get together for Thanksgiving? It will surely be an awkward feeling...What are you supposed to say?

Rude or just normal?

Every culture has its own idiosyncrasies from the way people converse to the manner by which people communicate. During my two-week hiatus, one of the interesting events that I had attended was that of my former schoolmate who was to get married in a Cantonese/American style wedding in Hong Kong. The wedding was obviously beautiful, but I was struck at the unique way the Cantonese communicated and interacted. From the point of view of an outsider such as an American, the Cantonese may appear to be rude while talking, but in reality, this is the normal way of conversing with each other. While I clearly don’t understand their culture let alone language, I just found it equally amusing to see a commercial – a government sponsored one that encourages their people on how to be courteous and polite in certain situations such as how to best communicate to the driver when getting off a bus. Nevertheless, the city of Hong Kong is a great place for eating and of course, shopping. You get the best deals on clothes and restaurants are open until late at night! Hong Kong is really a great eating and shopping destination.

I'm back - where was I?

Okay. Why the two week hiatus? A much needed vacation. A break from the insanity. A good time spent with close friends. Meanwhile, trying to get over jet lag.

Return to sender

If you were to get divorced or separated, would you return an heirloom given to you by your ex-husband's mother,that she had given to you during your enagagement?

Too important not to pass

Death or a near death experience has a strange way of really waking you up to realizing what's important in life - even if it's a pet. My bestfriend's dog (i.e., her Dalmatian) almost died this Sunday because of a condition known as bloating. We didn't know that a bad case of gas can cause a dog to die. Her dog was lucky that the vet arrived in time to bring the dog to the hospital to have the stomach decompressed. For anyone with a dog, this condition is considered one of the worst emergencies because a dog can die within minutes. It is a painful way for anyone to die. While I usually talk about weddings and marriage, I can't ignor this incident because it was just so painful to see my bestfriend lose her dog.

Blooming and Pregnant

I was watching Oprah the other day and Sarah Jessica Parker was their guest. Most notable about the interview were two things:

1) She has banned the word "fat" at home and

2) She misses the "birthing" experience.

While using the word "fat" is certainly wrong and there are other words that can be substituted, I found the latter part of missing the "birthing" experience as being quite odd. I mean we all know, I mean women for that matter know that having a baby (literally) is not something you want to miss. We can miss the experience of being a "beautiful bride" or that of "blooming woman (i.e., pregnant), but I don't think that missing labor pains comes up on my list. Then again, every woman is different, and we each have our unique experiences.

Meet the Parents

If you have ever watched the movie "Meet the Parents", then anyone faced with in-laws knows exactly how funny this movie is. For the most part, I've been busy lately meeting up with my husband family. While my current life may not be a real-life version of the movie, this movie certainly brings a lot of laughs and I just never get tired of the movie.

Off to Paris

Okay, the wedding has been called off. Paris is no longer getting married to the Greek son of a shipping magnate. For whatever reasons they may have for cancelling their wedding, you can bet that Paris will continue to surprise us.

Anna Nicole

The US judicial system has reached new heights as the US Supreme Court agrees to hear the case of Anna Nicole's inheritance disupute. As the widower of a former 90 year old oil tycoon, her ongoing legal dispute with the son of her now deceased husband certainly brings new meaning to the phrase "legally blonde". It would be really interesting to see how the case is eventually handled - that is from a legal perspective.

A little tidbit: at the age of 26, after she had married J. Howard Marshall in an equally fast wedding, Anna ran off with her bodyguard and honeymooed in Greece with him (i.e., bodyguard - Pierre de Jean).


On a side note:

It's been a crappy week. When buying tickets from a travel agent you found on the web, always be sure to ask about cancellation policies. Some will charge you a cancellation fee even without authorizing a credit card charge yet.

Sealed with a Kiss

When traveling in a foreign country, you never know what can happen with a simple “public display of affection.” Take an Israeli couple that got married in Pushkar, India. The unknowing couple was fined for kissing and hugging during the ceremony. Perhaps they should have gotten married in Paris.

Empire Strikes Back

Whoever designed the empire cut gown must have been obsessed with the “maternity look.” Popular during the Jane Austen’s time (i.e., Regency Era), the empire cut gown fitted what was considered as being beautiful (i.e., plump). These high-waisted gowns often had very low necklines, so low that a woman’s bosoms would be bursting out like tulips. From party dresses to wedding gowns, these supposedly “natural-fitting” dresses had to be designed by men – no doubt. If you’ve seen any Jane Austen movie, you know what I’m talking about, but if not, this great site has a lot of good pictures and historical information.

I'd rather be...

Browsing at an electronics store with husband = boring. This is especially true when we're at the computer store. With so many coffee stands propping up in bookstores, why don't they have them in computer stores like Comp USA wherein you can get a latte, read a magazine, watch TV, surf the web, or blog. It would be a much better use of my time rather than just following my husband around as he oogles over routers and modems.

My Alternative Life

Seating in traffic leads to some daydreaming. Specifically, what would my alternative life be?

Living in Paris, studying art history, cooking, and pastry-making. I'd be working part-time as an assistant pastry chef and living with my best friend who just so happens to be teaching French at an all boys college. She's loaded so money would not be a problem for us. We would obviously be 10 years younger - in our early 20s instead of mid-30s. We'd also find ourselves exploring the French countryside during weekends as we meet young French guys named Herve. In a nutshell, we would be free to do whatever we wanted without the familiar pressures we face from parents and relatives to settle down, get married, have kids, buy a house, and etc.

Okay, back to reality.

These alternative life scenarios sure provides some temporary (i.e., really short) escape from life's monotony.

Bride and Prejudice

As a fan of romantic comedies, I must say that the movie "Bride and Prejudice" was one of the funniest ones I have ever seen. If you're a fan of Jane Austen novels and movies, this one is a modern twist (i.e., Bollywood style) to the classic one. The actor playing Darcy in the movie looks almost like Luke Wilson - his name is Martin Henderson from New Zealand - playing opposite to an actress named Aishwarya Rai. If you enjoyed the movie called "Monsoon Wedding", this one is just as good! I really enjoyed it and got a good laugh.

Continued from Yes or No?

Given another chance at getting married, if my fiancé were to ask me to sign a pre-nup, I would be extremely worried as to how sincere or solid his feelings are towards me. And, I’d really wonder at how much he really knows me to want to live with me for the rest of his life. I'd most likely have second thoughts about our relationship as a result. I gather that a pre-nup becomes necessary when you want to be sure that your spouse is not going to run after your entire assets should you get a divorce, but then it certainly goes back to the first question, which is why do you need a pre-nup? On the other side, I can also understand why others may view it as a safety button in a marriage because nowadays people seem to rush to the wedding altar too soon. Case in point, the 4 month marriage of Jerry Maguire’s leading lady or “you had me at hello.” Both men and women that choose to marry later in life in order to pursue their careers face this problem because you never know what people are like when they get divorced – things can get ugly as in the case of Liza Minelli and David Guest whose star studded wedding celebration became a distance memory soon after the couple decided to call it quits amid allegations that Liza was a husband-beater. There are just so many examples out there that seem to indicate how important it is to know who you are marrying before taking the plunge.

Yes or No?

You are planning to marry the best guy in the world. You've got the ring to prove it, too. He's nice like Clark Kent kind of nice. You get along with all of his friends and family. Even his grandmother loves you. Everything just seems to be peachy, but suddenly, he pops the question: will you please sign the pre-nup? An article from money magazine made me think twice about this. Although for me, it's too late already 'cuz I've been hitched.

A Vegas Wedding?

The scenario is you and your long time boyfriend have been living together for more than 3 years that it already feels like your married already. Boyfriend says that it's better to just elope or have a simple civil wedding, so that you can save money for a real grand wedding down the line.

I have two main issues with this proposal:

1) How is it guaranteed that an actual wedding will happen?

2) How important is it for a woman to have a nice wedding as opposed to an elopement in Vegas or a civil wedding?

Personally, I would not want such an option because a wedding should be a special event, not one that you can postpone down the line. And, you can still have a simple yet memorable and elegant wedding with enough help from friends and family. There are many ways to creatively budget and plan for a wedding without going broke like getting married during the winter instead of summer, baking your own wedding cake, or making your own flower arrangements, favors, and wedding invitations. On the flip side, there are some people who would definitely prefer a small intimate ceremony like on a beach for their wedding - just two of you and the officiant.

Male PMS?

Ever wonder if men also suffer what we women go through every month? Here it is, it's called "Irritable Male Syndrome."

Wedding Photographs

If you were separated or divorced and were moving out, would you leave behind a life-sized photo of you and your ex? Nope. I certainly wouldn't leave it knowing that my ex didn't want it. I'd probably tear the photo in half and take my part of the photo with me. But, I guess for some very well known celebrities (i.e., Pitt and Aniston split), it is just too painful to take such a photo with them. One thing is for sure, somebody is going to make a lot of money putting this photo up for sale.

Up and down we go

I go up and down everyday on our building’s elevator. While this may seem as a mundane task, it has given me the unique opportunity to observe urban high-rise behavior. Whether you call it common courtesy or elevator etiquette, as I would like to call it, there are some people who just don’t get it. Like crossing a street and looking both ways. Take the process of entering an elevator; most people know that you are supposed to wait for the people inside to get out first before entering. But, what really irks me is when you do actually wait and then the people inside decide to get out! You end up feeling like an idiot because the guy inside moves so slowly. I call these guys the “delayed responders.” On another note, there are also those whom I’d like to call the “door shutters.” Blame it on being shy or having a ”Paxil” moment, these people purposely press on the “close door” button - knowing full well that somebody is approaching the elevator. This has happened to me so many times, but I always cherish the moment when I see their facial expression whenever I manage to catch the elevator before the doors close. Next, we have the “dumb fingers.” These people accidentally press on the wrong button, but don’t tell you that they have pressed up instead of down. Here, you end up just waiting for someone to enter without any kind of courteous response. Lastly, we have the “dead trees” – these people are the biggest idiots of elevator etiquette. You walk into the elevator and they don’t move aside so all of you can fit inside the elevator without breathing into each other’s faces!

Laughter - the best medicine

Hectic week. For some much needed amusement and laughter, I've found Atom Films - featuring short films and animation.

Opportunistic

Spent most of the Labor Day weekend doing basically everything contrary to labor. In other words, nothing. What I did find interesting on the web is the sudden proliferation of businesses announcing that a portion of your purchase will be donated to the victims of Hurricane Katrina, while there are others who just completely donate all of their sales to the victims. Lastly, there are also businesses that just make a donation without making any grand announcements to their customers. The issue, here, that bothers me a bit is that some businesses have used this tragedy to promote their sales and even making their company appear somewhat righteous in their efforts. I personally find it very distasteful to find a business that has to post a message on their website stating they are donating a portion of the sales. Why do they have to announce it? Will it really make us (i.e., consumers) into buying customers? I don’t think so. We are smarter and more cynical! Such a practice would most likely make me never want to buy from them. I think most people who are compassionate in light of this terrible event will make a donation whether it is in the form of money, clothes, etc., out of the kindness of their own heart.

Hope within tragedy

The catastrophic effects of Hurricane Katrina has caused unimaginable pain and suffering for many. Images of grief and anger from TV, newspapers, magazines, and virtually all over the web cannot fully grasp the real harshness of what the victims of the hurricane have suffered and continue to suffer. But, somwhere within the cries of help and despair, I heard about this story and realized that one has to have hope when all else has been destroyed. Even a little ounce of hope can help people through this awfully tragic time. The story of the wedding of Trenise Williams and Joseph Kirsh and how one small group of individuals banded together to help them out says it all. A little help goes a long way and should be an example for others to do the same. In the end, I hope that the kindness and generosity of humanity will prevail.

Handicap

Looking for parking space is obviously a challenge especially when you live in a metropolitan city like LA. While looking for a space at the Glendale Galleria mall today, parking was a bit of a challenge in light of the Labor Day weekend Sales. As I continue to look for a space, a couple in a silver Lexus drives up ahead of me to catch a space. Okay, what’s the catch? Well, as they were driving up to a handicapped parking spot, they placed a blue handicap sign on their dashboard, and rushed out of their car. Who was the handicapped person in the car? I’m still wondering about that to myself.

Kansas!

In most states, the legal marrying age is 18. I thought that this was applicable to all states, but as it turns out the Kansas and a few other states, including allow individuals or should I say, kids as young as 12. With such antediluvian laws still existing in America, what is most disturbing about these laws is that they pretty much fail to protect minors when an adult chooses to marry a minor as in the case of a couple from Nebraska got married in Kansas. When I say couple, the groom was 22, while the bride (pregnant at that) was only 13! What era are these legislators stuck in?