By now, you know that Rob and I are working to pay off $180,000 in student loan debt. You also know that we are in the midst up planning our upcoming wedding. Typically, those two items don't mesh well. Either you are aggressively paying off debt, or you are spending a small … [Read more...]
It’s the Little Things
After two years together, there are still lots of little differences between Maria and I that can amuse the heck out of me. We both have similar temperaments, come from very traditional backgrounds, and have the same values. But the different way each of us reacts to an ordinary … [Read more...]
Six Surprising Things That Happened After I Said Yes
When Rob proposed, I was overjoyed and couldn’t wait to begin making plans for our life together. Right away, I was surprised by so many parts of the engagement process that I had not anticipated. Some of the unexpected issues were trivial. Others a bit more serious. Here are six … [Read more...]
Happy (Dating) Anniversary to Us!
Most people are done celebrating the holidays by now. All the presents have been unwrapped, the Festivus pole has been put away, the New Years celebrations are over, and now it's time to start getting back to work and school. Not quite yet for Maria and I, though. We are … [Read more...]
Our Engagement Story: Maria’s Perspective
By now, you have heard Rob unfold the story of how he planned to propose to me on a trip to Chicago last April, and I know you really want to know about the exact moment when it happened. I'll resume the engagement story shortly; but before I relive that lovely moment in Grant … [Read more...]
Our Engagement Story: Rob’s Perspective
I'll bet you guys are wondering about the engagement story. Well, today is your lucky day because I'm going to tell you how I planned it and pulled it off. Maria will tell you her perspective on the proposal in a later post. It all started with Valentine's Day. In case you … [Read more...]
Why I Refuse to Toss the Bouquet at my Wedding
Wedding bells are ringing and the big day is a little over 6 months away. As a woman with deep Catholic roots, I treasure many traditions and am so excited to incorporate many of them into my wedding celebration. When I envision myself walking down the aisle of the gorgeous … [Read more...]
The Guy’s Guide to Buying the Engagement Ring
Buying an engagement ring can be a daunting task. There are so many cuts of diamond, such a wide variety of diamond qualities, and an amazing variety of ring designs, even if you are sticking with something fairly classic. On top of that, it is a very expensive purchase and your … [Read more...]
Personalized Bridesmaid Wine Labels + A Giveaway
As Rob and I began to plan our wedding, the theme we kept returning to was adding a personal touch to make the day special for everyone involved. In the age of Pinterest, it has become all the rage to throw a big brunch for your friends and ask them to be a part of the wedding … [Read more...]