3/4ths of the Year has Gone By!
October 1, 2006
I can't believe that we are starting the last quarter of 2006, where did the days go? My weekends are filled with trips to sites to meet with wedding coordinators, along with Rachel, and we are in shock by the costs involved. Everything from $1,500.00 to rent a facility up to $21,000.00 is what we have looked at so far, and I am sure there are more out there. You really can get wrapped up in all the excitement and I can see why people take a loan out on their home, retirement funds, etc. to pay for the wedding. Unless you have a house and yard big enough to accomodate everyone, it just costs so much for a large wedding.

Rachel and I counted up the approximate no. of guests and we are at 150-175 so far. We are hoping we haven't left anyone out, from the list, but will firm it up next year. It might seem kinda crazy to some people that we are looking at sites and planning it now, but the dates for reserving places for next year are filling up really fast, so if you don't secure one now, you just might loose out.

There are so many options available at every place too, like using their chef, or hiring your own caterer, they do the cake or you get your own bakery, photographer or videographer, what to have on the tables, birdseed to throw or rice or ???? that is allowed, hotel rooms nearby or on the premises, etc. It starts to get to be mindboggling. A spreadsheet is a definite plus in keeping things organized and for comparison purposes.

I am amazed at my daughter's energy, with trying to plan a wedding, going to school full-time, working full-time and fitting in time for studying and hanging out with her future husband. I am proud of her for having such good self discipline. She suggested today that we go to my office after we looked at a country club and golf course and had lunch, so that she could study (it is very quiet there and has no distractions). Of course, I can always use more time at the office. This past week was a tough one with meetings and board demands, I have been exhausted from the very long days.

We had some exciting news though, Sarah (other daughter) got accepted to Cal-State San Marcos and will be transferring there and beginning classes in January 2007 (in 3 months-yikes more money out the door for the higher cost of education). David will be finishing up at Palomar College in June 2007 and then hopefully will be accepted for transfer to Cal-State San Marcos for Fall 2007 semester. I am proud of them all for working full-time and going to school full-time, their dedication and self-discipline in studying is amazing. I am in hopes that Matt will someday decide to go back and finish his college education, but we must all find our own paths and I can't fault him for that. He is a good kid too.

I am pleased in one way that with the fall weather comes the start of my reality shows, so I am back to Biggest Loser, Project Runway, Top Chef, Survivor, The Bachelor, Top Model, Amazing Race, Dancing with the Stars, and so much more. Yes, between my reality shows and my Starbucks, I truly am hooked! Now off to see my evening shows - good night.