Tied the Knot

Last Saturday was an ending and a new beginning for Jason and I. The days leading up to the grand event was insane. The whole week is a blur!

I head to Flagstaff the Wednesday before, trying my best to get things in order before family arrived that night and the following morning. Spent a little time with my friends, figuring out my makeup(only did half my face), headed to Church for dinner and bible study and "family time" with those there. It was great to catch up and laugh with my church family. I miss them so much.

Thursday family started arriving, delayed flights and bad weather left me a little lonely Wednesday night, but it was rush, rush when my parents and eldest sister arrived. From there it was getting them checked-in, off to the Ma(ll), dinner with a LBC friend that drove up just for our wedding, and waiting for others to arrive, which wasn't until after 11pm. Jason didn't get into until that evening either.

Friday, was once again non-stop. Woke up, had breakfast with Jason, and headed to the church with my parents. It still seemed like we had plenty to do, especially with how much we packed into that little kitchen! I'm thankful for the fact that there were so many people able to help. Even two of our friends showed up to help with decorating the sanctuary. Then it was off to do errands, meet up with Jason's sister (roommate for the night) and then back to the church for rehearsal.

After rehearsal, which went smoothly thanks to my family's experience with weddings(this being the seventh one), it was a trip downtown with the girls! I had a blast and realized how much I missed them all and our good times together.

Saturday
8AM-Hair Appointment
So through the help of one of my bridesmaids, we got a stylist/hairdresser for doing five people's hair pre-wedding. We were told to be there at 8am, which three of us(including me) were 15 minutes late, but figured it wasn't going to be that bad. The Stylist arranged with me the 8am call time so that we would be at the church no later than 11am(12pm ceremony). So 15 minutes still gave us plenty of time to drive the maybe 5 minutes to the church and get dressed before the big shindig. WRONG!

Let me explain a bit more about the situation. I paid a nice amount of money, actually cheaper than a family friend charges for a bridal party, and I think I only got mediocre service. I'm no perfectionist, I mean, I did my own makeup with the help of my friends and new sister-in-law. But there is some things that are expected that I didn't think we received on this "purchase." The stylist brought in her co-owner/co-worker, which helped the call time be later. If they were not down for helping that morning, all five of us would've been at the salon at 530AM, so I am thankful they we willing! Also, I paid X amount of dollars to get up to six people's hair done, but there was only five of us, so I figured that would just be a nice extra tip for their pocket to be used towards whatever.

I was discouraged two weeks before this day, since the stylist told me that it would be at least an hour per person, which I thought was craziness! Our family friend recently did my little brother's wedding, which was the same amount of girls as mine (bride+4). She did five updo's in 30 minutes! I was reassured it was to give some extra time in case something had to be changed.

We arrived, and the two stylist started working. It was nice that they supplied some type of breakfast for us, which was nice. I tried to eat, but I think the fact that I realized I was getting married later, my nerves got the best of me. The first hour pasts, and they are still working on the first two people's hair. Finally at 10AM one of them finished and started on the next person. Meanwhile, the co-stylist is still working on his first person. I start to freak out, so I focus on my makeup, which I never wear. Jason's sister was a great help, even though she did hardly anything.

1045am, Co-stylist finishes with his first head of hair, and honestly he did barely anything. They styled her hair, looked it over, and decided it wasn't what they wanted. Not my bridesmaid, but the Co-stylist. So they started over. UGH! I tried my best to relax, but I was starting to sweat it a lot, especially since I didn't want to keep people waiting. Plus, I was hungry, and knew there was Bar-B-Q waiting for me! So Jason's sister is next, and they decide to do a French Twist (GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH). Easy Peasy, right? They curled her hair!?! Why would you curl it for a do that needs to be smooth?

11AM, I finally get my turn in the hot seat. At this point, I'm praying the Stylist just gets it done, but she needed a cigarette break! SERIOUSLY!?! I was promised if we were there at 8am that morning, we would be out of there by 11am. IT'S ELEVEN!
Co-stylist- What time are you guys suppose to be there(at the church)?
Me- Eleven.
Co-Stylist- What time is it now?
Me- Eleven

So they curl my hair, let them set, and I was finished before Jason's sister. Seriously, a French Twist is easy! Why is it taking that long to pin hair and curl wispies? So my hair & makeup is done, three of the four have makeup and hair, and I'm trying my best to wait so we all can go over together. Jason's sister gave me the ok to take off to the church, as long as someone stayed with her. I felt horrible, along with angry and nervous.
Co-Stylist- I'm just pinning right now, it will go fast.
Stylist- Yeah, that's the easy part of the twist, the pinning.
Sister- (Glare)

So three of us leave, get to church, and dress quickly. I feel like we are completely holding up the whole ceremony! I actually cried a little because of my frustration and feeling I had no control over the situation. Then the two others arrive. I give my gifts, help them get dressed, and we line up in the hallway. During this time I had no clock to look at, so I kept thinking the worst.

The music starts, and it hits me, this isn't rehearsal anymore. Maid #1 goes, then Maid #2, then #3, #4, and then my three year old niece. My Dad and I approach the doors, and I start to tear up. "I'm on my Dad's arm, this is real." The music starts, and we enter. "Oh, I have you on the wrong side," my Dad remarks. "So let's trade," and we did a do-si-do. I'm in near tears, but trying to hold my composer. My Dad's voice cracks as he announces he and my mother are giving me away. I loose it! Jason meets me, helps me up the stairs and to where the preacher is. Next thing I know we are saying "I Do" and then our vows. Next the presenting of rings, or wings in our case(family tradition/joke). Light the candle and then presented as Mr. & Mrs!


I barely remember key parts of that day, like how I even got in my dress. I'm so grateful for my family and friends that were there to share that moment with us. We didn't do some "traditional" or normal wedding things, but it still was an amazing day!

I'm also thankful for the Car Show that happened to be that weekend, and can hardly wait to see our pictures! Most of all we both are very happy that we got to spend time with our family that weekend, even if it was only for a few moments at a time.

So I'm married... Still can't completely believe it. Jason and I are still adjusting to the new titles we have for one another, and he's adjusting to his ring. I will try to post pictures on here, as an update to this one, or a new entry.

Less than 100

And I'm pretty sure I'm nowhere close to being prepared for it at all. Roughly three months until Jason and I tie that knot, and I'm not even sure what we have been doing during this time. I'm trying hard not to stress out, because I know some things we won't be able to be sure of until later, but I can't help but think and feel that I'm behind some how.

My dress should be arriving soon, which I can hardly wait to put it on. I still need shoes and other things, but my dress will make my decisions a little more easier to make once I have it. Or at least I think it will. Jason has gone to look at tuxes, but nothing concrete that I know of as of late. I knows the style, but that's about it.

I'm getting the invitations done, all I need are the stamps at this point. They should be arriving tomorrow, if not Saturday. Then off the invitations go! Jason wanted to help with them, but due to time and me not getting out there until after the 20th, I sat down and did them. I was shocked that we are gonna get to save a bit of money on stamps, since they are lighter than most invites and within the size requirements for the standard rate.

I got back on track about working out, even started a new routine. First week I worked out five days, even though my goal was at least do cardio all seven days. Then week two started out strong, but come Tuesday I have a fever, sore throat and cough, which I'm still battling it seems. I am hardly ever sick like this, and this week I was suppose to be getting ready for a yard sale on Saturday. I just pray I wake up tomorrow feeling at 90% so I'm able to be more functional. Also, I want to get back into my routine!

I still am on the prowl for employment. After my last interview in Flagstaff, I'm a bit discouraged about looking there as an out-of-state applicant. Since then I have been applying to more jobs in the Phoenix area than even anywhere in California. I guess mostly because Jason is already there, and he's a little discouraged about the market and cost of living out here. Also, Phoenix is only 1.5-2 hours south of Flagstaff. We are both just looking to God to show us where we are to be. I may start being more serious about jobs here in California, I'm praying about one up North, not sure I should apply or not. But a job is a job, and this chick needs one!

I mostly started this blog entry because I cannot fall asleep at all it seems. For the last week I have been up until early morning, sometimes even dawn, for no reason. I mean I feel tired, I get into to bed and just lay there no longer tired. Or toss and turn all night and get maybe five hours. It's probably because I have been sick, but doesn't your body heal better when you actually sleep? In the past when I've been sick, I usually crash for hours, but this go around I'm bright eyed until morning. I still function for the most part like any other day, even with lack of sleep. I really hope I'm not starting go develop some horrible sleep pattern or disorder.

I should try to close my eyes...

The Jitters

I have done my best, for the last two days at least, to not think about my interview tomorrow. I have even tried to keep myself busy by looking at wedding things and talking to my sister and bridesmaids. But now, I have done everything I needed to do, and can't help be get caught up with the thoughts of what to expect tomorrow.

Jason is going up there with me tomorrow, along with two of our friends. So it will be a full car, and hopefully that will help with my nerves.

Homesick and Nervous

I have been visiting Phoenix for about two weeks now, and planned to head home tomorrow. The visit has allowed me to get some things done with Jason in regards to our wedding, but other than that I have sort of been up a creek without a paddle. By no means am I stranded, I have my truck and could go anywhere I wanted, just don't want to waste my expensive fuel or get lost in a place I have never really cared to explore.

My stay has been extended, and for good reasons, but I was looking to be home and feel more productive. This past Friday, I received an amazing phone call. I have an interview for a job up in Flagstaff this Thursday afternoon. I'm very excited for this opportunity and really want this. I need a job for one, but I've been longing to be back in Flagstaff for a long time. But I'm stressing about my performance. I haven't had a job in almost a year, and in that time I have only had one interview (February 2011) and I got burned. I'm not completely sure I have fully recovered from that.

I miss my home and my parents. I feel like I haven't seen them in forever, and I think it's because I was starting the "I'm leaving" set of mind when I got the phone call. I guess I sort of don't like "change of plans." I know it's for a great reason as to my departure has been postponed. I know if I get this position, I am going to be leaving for longer, actually relocating. Which I'm ok, I love Flagstaff, I know the city, and home isn't too far. So don't get me wrong, I understand it sounds a little contradicting, but moving is different than a visit.

So any prayers for this interview would be greatly appreciated. It's in God's hands, and I'm glad He is in control.

Retailer Wanted

Seriously, just one little favor, and I totally won't bother you ever again. I'm trying to cut down on cost, mostly with the little details/decorations for our wedding by doing things myself or with the help of family members. One thing was using the pew decorations later as centerpieces at the reception, since I found a DIY on cute little baskets filled with Orchids. Well, with each bloom being at least 5 dollars, and maybe needing 5-7 blooms per basket, for about 16 pews (ever other one), that's way more than I wanna spend. All the florist were ok with me taking on the task, but were open to either doing them or selling me the sprays I would need. So my other option was artifical, which is fine by me as long as they look good.

My mom and I had looked at Michael's, but I wasn't serious enough then about purchasing anything at the time. Also, I just figured I would go online, find them for a screaming deal, and not have to worry about even going with a florist. The construction seemed easy, even though I may take another route in terms of container, and my sisters said they would definitely help. My little brother mentioned that in LA's flower district they also sell artificials, and that I should go look. Again, not being completely commited to anything yet, I have put it off. Well sort of, I was going to ask my mom if she wanted to go a few Mondays ago, but George was born. Which holding a baby and playing with Henry is better than walking around Downtown LA in my opinion.

So today, I've been doing my online research, mostly for Cymbidiums, but we are also using the Dendrobiums for the Maids/Groomsmen. I found a place that sells just the blooms if wanted, ONLY if you have already purchased their $400 dollar bridal package. They are even the Real/Natural/Fresh Touch or Floramatique type, which are latex of some kind or other material to give the more realistic look. One place I found basically would give me the best deal, but at the bottom it says they don't sell to the public. But I'm wondering if I could coax someone one, say my mom's hair dress/family friend into "purchasing" them for me. Or if it has to be an actual Floral Retailer. I'm just bummed, because everywhere else it seems they don't have them for the right price, or they aren't as nice or similar to what we are using in our floral attire.

Maybe simple really isn't simple

Consults and Insults

Well not so much in terms of insults, just feel like we were taken on a long, bumpy ride.

In the last 24 hours, Jason and I have met with two on Thursday, and four today, and I'm completely spent. I never ever want to do that again. I understand, neither one of us is in town, so it's a trip to even meet with the pastor, but to have back to back appointments is too much. But we did learn a lot, especially in our last floral appointment. We mainly were just pricing out cost of things, to get an idea of what we could maybe do without, or at least of a better idea on what is normal. For the most part, we are waiting on those prices/estimates.

We do have our bridal party locked down, plus or minus ushers and one unconfirmed groomsmen, but at least I have my ladies! I'm so excited, and decided on a dress for them last night, so hopefully they get the chance soon to go and look/try it on. I'm hoping it's not too expensive, since anything wedding seems to add an extra $50+ to anything, even candles. I'm more excited about getting married now than I was when we set the date. Probably because things seem to be getting checked off our list, rather than be pushed around or just talked about.

We may have our florist locked in too, but want to wait to hear back from the others we talked to, just to seem fair. I was so grateful and flustered when our last floral appointment gave me bad news within the first 2 minutes. So everywhere we went prior to this appointment said nothing about "complicated" flowers do to Flagstaff's climate. I love Cymbidium Orchids, especially the green ones. My Grandma Lawson used to grow them, and remind me of her. Well, they are pricey little blooms. One florist priced them out at $15 per, another as low as $5 per bloom. So to cut back on cost I thought I would use Hydrangeas to give the fuller look of the bouquets for myself and my maids, but being quite cheaper for more surface area covered. I really liked the dome shape, but not being completely uniformed and having some type of alternating texture and focal points. So, trying to stay as consistent as possible to our first floral ideas, mainly as a control for pricing comparisons, I stated I was looking to use Cymbids and Hydrangeas for my bouquet, "Hydrangeas only last 30 minutes up here," said our last florist. I was shocked, because no one else had mentioned anything about that, and it didn't even cross my mind that would be an issue. I'm glad she said something, but it did make our visit a lot longer, we basically had to start over. She also went over and asked about things that no one else even tried to dance around. She asked about a toss bouquet, informed us that something we decided for our moms' was not appropriate for "ladies to wear" and basically pulled out half her store to help us visualize our estimate. Her honestly, knowledge and personal attention to us I think helped the consult no be so sterile and business like. We actually detoured a few times talking about traditions or past brides. She seemed relieved that we weren't too extreme about anything, like most bridezilla's and undecisive people she has dealt with in the past. I think this was the best consult we had, it was actually a fun experience. Even though the rest of the results are still waiting to be recorded, I'm pretty sure we may just end up working with her.

We went by church and met with the pastor about the ceremony and to touch base on counseling. He gave us sample vows that he has used before, including the ones he used for his daughter's wedding three years ago. We sort of skimmed them over, but definitely will look at them more seriously, and make some edits if we feel the need. We did talk a bit about the ceremony, which Jason and I have details to work out, and having the reception outside on the westside of the building, which will need some grounds work done, but Jason and I are willing to come help with that.

With the last two days, I feel stronger about moving up to Flagstaff, even if it's just for until after the wedding, though I hope and pray it would be longer. Definitely need to talk to certain people and make sure I'm not being too drastic, but the job market is so bad, I'm pretty sure my out-of-town/state status is a big negative sign to all employers there. Maybe if I go up there, I will have a better chance of getting a job. I just need to trust God more, and pray, and let others know I need prayer.

Ups and Downs...

But at least I'm getting notice of my rejections. I have been looking, off and on for the moment, for employment, but have been unsuccessful. But I am grateful to be getting at least a letter stating that they selected another candidate. Yeah, I would rather have a job offer, or at least a phone call for interview. Especially since the last time I went out on a limb, I got burned and knocked down a bit. I drove 1000 miles round trip in a snow storm for an interview, just to spend two days in a stressful daze, just to be told "thank you for your time."

Also, the wedding planning is slow, and I really think it's mostly for the fact that I'm out-of-state from our venue. I know I have a lot of people willing to help, but do I really want that help? Even with doing the Save the Dates, which will be going out tomorrow, I was asked if I needed/wanted any help, and I turned it down. I wasn't complaining about doing them, I actually enjoyed doing it. Just put on some music or something on tv and just work away. I think I'm too stubborn and would rather do it on my own. But I'm realizing with the lack of progress, I may have to hand over some tasks. I just hope I find the right people to trust with these things. Most of them are fairly small.

Jason is trying his best to get his resume out and find a better job, even if it's not in Flagstaff. We are both praying for the right job to come along, and I'm pretty much willing to move anywhere, except Phoenix. Lame I know, especially since Jason is already there, but there is nothing appealing about Phoenix. But I may just have to suck it up and take whatever it is that happens, even if it's Phoenix.